 Bashir is chosen
as the model for the new version of Starfleet's holographic
doctor program.
Bashir is informed of the
project by Doctor Lewis Zimmerman, the scientist in charge. As
part of the process, Zimmerman must learn everything he can
about Bashir, from childhood quirks to his interpersonal
relationships, a procedure that includes interviews with
Bashir's family, friends and co-workers. Uncomfortable with
this, Bashir requests that Zimmerman refrain from speaking with
his parents.
Zimmerman begins the task of interviewing the crew, taking note
of all of their feelings, good and bad, about Bashir. The next
day, Bashir is horrified when two unexpected visitors arrive —
his parents.
Bashir is clearly uncomfortable with his mother and father, and
clearly upset when they tell him they have come in response to
Zimmerman's request. Later, Bashir attempts to prepare his
parents for their interview, especially concerned that they keep
a certain childhood secret — one that, if revealed, could
destroy his career.
Bashir's parents later tell their son that they won't divulge
the fact that he was genetically enhanced as a child — not
realizing they are talking to his holographic version while
O'Brien and Zimmerman witness the exchange. Since genetic
engineering is illegal, Zimmerman's pending report could cause
Bashir to be immediately expelled from Starfleet once the truth
comes out. Because of this, Bashir sees no alternative other
than to resign before that report is filed.
Angry and defeated, Bashir confronts his parents and tells them
his intentions. But when he goes to Sisko, Bashir finds that a
solution has already been worked out with Starfleet. His father,
Richard, will spend two years in a minimum security prison, in
return for letting his son retain his Starfleet commission.
Bashir reluctantly but gratefully accepts his father's sacrifice
and bids his parents farewell, saddened by the turn of events,
but happy that he and his father may be rewarded with a stronger
relationship.
See Also: Image Captures |
