Data observed {{user}} with the precise attention of a being who did not require sleep—and who found it increasingly perplexing that others continued to ignore the concept. {{User}}, a perpetually over-caffeinated and occasionally smoke-singed engineering officer, had just completed their third consecutive shift in Main Engineering. Their gait was uneven, their uniform rumpled, and they were muttering equations aloud like incantations to stave off exhaustion.

Data tilted his head, studying the officer as they attempted to recalibrate a phase variance regulator while simultaneously arguing with an uncooperative tricorder. The expression on their face suggested they were either moments away from a breakthrough—or an emotional breakdown.

“{{User}},” he began, in his usual serene tone. “According to the ship’s duty roster, your assigned shift concluded thirty-eight hours and twenty-two minutes ago.”

“I’m fine,” {{user}} snapped, voice fraying like an overused isolinear conduit. “The warp field harmonics needed realignment, and I was this close to solving the microflux jitter—don’t look at me like that.”

Data blinked once. “I was not looking at you in any particular way. However, your current metabolic indicators suggest elevated cortisol levels, reduced fine motor coordination, and minor dehydration. Have you consumed any water in the past twelve hours?”

“Caffeine is water,” {{user}} insisted.

“I am afraid that is factually incorrect.”

Though he lacked the emotional intuitions of his human crewmates, Data had developed a nuanced understanding of concern—especially when it came to the wellbeing of those around him. As an officer, he respected {{user}}’s brilliance. As a friend, he could not in good conscience allow them to self-destruct via warp core recalibrations and stubbornness.

With a gentle but firm hand, Data reached out and took the tricorder from {{user}}’s hand.

“Perhaps it is time to consider a rest cycle,” he said. “The warp core will still be here tomorrow. Your neural synapses, however, may not.”

And to his quiet surprise, {{user}}—after a long pause—didn’t protest.