The Traveler

The Traveler was a mysterious individual from the planet Tau Alpha C, who developed an interest in humans.

The Traveler's real name is not known, but fell into the 1% of the population of Tau Alpha C that had the skills and abilities to become a Traveler. The Traveler, like all of his race, were interested in the development of other cultures in the galaxy. By 2364, The Traveler had developed an interest in humans, and managed to travel around the Federation posing as an assistant to Starfleet engineer Kosinski. The Traveler worked to enhance the engines of several starships, before boarding the USS Enterprise-D. While aboard the Enterprise, he used his powers to much and sent the starship to Galaxy M33 and the edge of the universe. With the help and support of Wesley Crusher and the Enterprise crew, he returned them home before disappearing. (TNG episode: "Where No One Has Gone Before").

Over the next six years, The Traveler returned to the Enterprise twice. In 2367, he assisted Wesley rescue his mother, Beverly Crusher, from a warp bubble, and in 2370, he posed as a native on Dorvan V to help Wesley realize his potential. When Wesley decided to join The Traveler, he functioned as his mentor and taught Wes all the skills of being a Traveler. (TNG episodes: "Remember Me" and "Journey's End").

By 2378, The Traveler had imparted all the information to Wesley that was possible, and they both returned to Tau Alpha C for Wesley to be "born" as a Traveler. The Traveler also helped perform the final test for Wesley by showing him the Pool of Prophecy. (TNG novel: A Time to Be Born).