"The Changeling" Line-by-Line

NOMAD: You are the Kirk, the creator. You programmed my function.

 

MCCOY: Well, I'm not the Kirk. Tell me what your function is.

 

NOMAD: This is one of your units, creator?

 

KIRK: Yes, he is.

 

Nomad: It functions irrationally.

 

Kirk: Sometimes, but tell him your function nonetheless.

 

Nomad: My function is to probe for biological infestations, to destroy that which is not perfect. I am Nomad.

 

KIRK: Biological infestation. There was never any probe sent out for that.

 

Spock: I believe the history computer can answer that question. I'll have the readout in a moment.

 

KIRK: Did you destroy the Malurian system?

 

NOMAD: Not the system, creator Kirk. Only the unstable biological infestation. It is my function.

 

Bones: Unstable infestation? The population of four planets? What kind of function

 

KIRK: Doctor. Why do you call me the creator?

 

NOMAD: Is the usage incorrect?

 

KIRK: Well, I-

 

SPOCK: The usage is correct. The creator was simply testing your memory banks.

 

NOMAD: There was much damage in the accident.

 

KIRK: Mister Singh. Come here a moment. This unit will see to your needs.

 

SINGH: Sir?

 

KIRK: I'll be back in a moment. Gentlemen, come with me.
(Kirk, McCoy and Spock leave Singh, still bemused.)

[Corridor]

KIRK: You're on to something, Spock. What is it?