Trance smiled oh so sweetly at McCoy when he asked why she didn't just tell the truth. The real answer? Trance avoided straight talk whenever possible. And...

"It was none of your business. Also, it's easier to guide others when they think they're like you." When you were this high up in the food chain, and everyone else was down below...how could anyone ever relate? So, she hid.

But, Dr. Crusher had a point. "You are correct, that is a possibility. Remember though, space is my natural environment. If I were to endanger you, it would be easy enough to rectify that." Trance had to trust they would think of the correct option, without providing them with a step by step guide.