Clearly, the central plot is a continuation of the themes of “Measure of a Man” and “The Offspring”. Picard is pursuing Maddox, trying to stop him and find justice for the synths, whom he regards as a “race” that is being exploited (he says as much in “Measure of a Man”). I’m guessing Picard and his new crew do find him and apprehend him towards the end of the season. Picard is clearly motivated by his love for Data, his guilt over Data having sacrificed himself, his guilt that B4 didn’t “work out”, probably also his past guilt about not being able to save Lal, etc. There will undoubtedly be more Data flashbacks. Now. Picture it. The last episode is coming to an end, a happy ending to some extent. Maddox is apprehended, the mission is a success. And just as they are about to board their ship, in walks a figure. We pan up, from bottom to top, to reveal—everyone’s favorite golden android. Picard has been seeing him in his dreams. Is this a dream? Is it the irumodic syndrome? Everyone else sees him too, even though it can’t be. Picard briefly thinks it might really be him—somehow. But then, the famous evil smirk on the android’s face, and we see Picard’s face twist in horror in response. Picard whispers, “Lore...!” Lore smiles, and says, “Nice to see you again, Captain. You’re not going anywhere.” He raises a phaser, and we fade out. End of S1, see you again in two years.