Star Trek The Next Generation The Gift: A Star Trek SI

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We are on Pentarus V for two weeks, eventually though an agreement was arrived that suited both parties in the dispute and a big celebration was held to thank the Federation and Picard for our assistance. Sariel teaches me the inner workings of the shuttle craft during this time as we have basic piloting lessons. LCARS is easily the most sophisticated, intuitive, and user friendly software I've ever experienced using once I learn how to properly use it. I'm able to configure the console to my liking so I select a basic one button control approach to the console which enables me to program commands easily. Picard is tired, but not exhausted at the end of the dispute as we make our way back to the Enterprise. On route to the ship we get a comm signal from the ship.

"Sir, we're getting a signal from the Enterprise, it's for Mr. Young." Ensign Rager reports

Picard nods as I tap the button on the navigation side. It's Deanna.

"Counsellor, to what do we owe this unexpected pleasure." I ask

She pauses, and I suddenly notice her uncharacteristic look of sadness on her face.

"We just got word from Trill. Ambassador Curzon Dax, has died." Deanna says

There are a few seconds of silence as I digest the news. Goodbye Old Man.

"A remarkable man, who had an even remarkable career. Aside from Ambassador Sarek, perhaps the most accomplished, and distinguished Federation diplomat of the last century and a half. He will be extremely missed." Picard says

I'm still silent.

"Adam, are you okay?" Deanna asks

I knew this day was coming. I should have messaged him. Damn it. I didn't think it was this early in the year. I feel a tear start to stream down my cheek and wipe it away.

"I'll be fine, thank you Deanna. Was there anything else from Trill?" Jadzia...

"No. Just that he was very fond of you during your short time together, and wanted you to know that it wasn't your fault."

I Am Locutus of Borg....

"Thank you Deanna. We'll see you when we are back." I answer and she nods as the screen switches to the Federation Emblem.

"Are you all right Mr. Young?" Picard repeats as Sariel attempts to focus her attention on her job

"I'll be fine sir. I uh...I was expecting this, but didn't think...uh...I didn't think...damn." I put my hand on the edge of the console.

"You thought you'd have more time?" Picard offers

"At least for a message. The Old Man was on Risa for his final few weeks, I just missed him by a few days after I left. I should have waited."

"He would have understood, more than anyone else." Picard answers

"Yeah. What an incredible being....all those life times..." I say and Picard chuckles

"Yes, and a brand new one if I understand the procedure correctly." he answers....

"Jadzia..." I reply without thinking

"Oh?" Picard asks and Sariel even suppresses a smirk

"Uh...yeah. Ensign Jadzia Idaris, or now...Ensign Dax." I reply without further commentary

"Very good. Well...when we get back to the Enterprise, we'll have a toast in their honor." Picard states and I just nod

Jean-Luc is as good as his word as he brings out a bottle of Chateau Picard 2293, a fitting year to to mark the finalization of the Khitomer Accords of which Curzon represented the Federation.

"To Curzon." Picard raises his goblet as do the rest of us in his quarters.

"To Curzon." we all reply

The next few weeks fly by as "Night Terrors", "Galaxy's Child" (happens the same but Geordi and Leah are just friends, as holo-Leah was never created), "Identity Crisis", and "The Nth Degree" all happen as before...as we head into late September and the Enterprise arrives at Tagus III. Captain Picard is beyond elated as the Enterprise serves as host for the Federation Archelogy Council's Annual Symposium which means I should be getting a visit from a certain someone right about...

"Hello again."

"Vash." I reply as I enter my quarters after another exhausting day of security training.

OH boy.

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I stare at Vash who is sitting crossed legged in my favourite arm chair.

"What are you doing in my quarters, and how did you know these were my quarters?" I ask

"I asked and was told these were your quarters. You intrigued me on Risa, and I wanted to come say hello. You already know why I'm here." she says

"Unfortunately more than you do." I grumble looking around for HIM

Where are you, you obnoxious...

"What's that supposed to mean?" she asks as she gracefully climbs out of my chair and heads towards me

"Look Vash. I just have finished up a training shift. I'm extremely tired, I want to shower and lay down." I say rubbing my temples

"My, my aren't we evasive over a little hello." she replies

"This is HIS doing. I don't have time for this Q!" I exclaim

"What's a Q?" Vash asks confused

"A particularly annoying, immortal being, who gets his shits and kicks off by trolling us mere humans." I Reply

"Sounds like my kind of guy." Vash replies, she's getting closer to me now

"Sigh. Vash, the Captain---"

"Otherwise engaged with administrative matters with the Council. I know. I already stopped to say hi to Jean-Luc. He shoed me away as quickly as he could. So I came here."

"Naturally. Why?"

"I told you. You intrigued me when we met on Risa. I saw the way you looked at me, in spite of your partner. I've had a lot of attention from men in my time as you can imagine, but no one has ever looked at me as intensely as you did that first time we interrupted you." she says with a coy smile

"You're reaching."

She's right. I'm evading, and it's because I REALLY am tired right now.

"I don't think so." she attempts to reach for my face but I block her.

"I was sorry to hear about Lieutenant Henshaw, and what the Borg did to you." she replies as I attempt to head to the bathroom, that catches me and I spin around on her

"Why are you here Vash? Thank you for your condolences, but I'm not really in the mood for any of your advances, and or games...you and Jean-Luc..."

"What Jean-Luc and I had, remains on Risa. You know how he is, and I chose to respect that about him. I truly am sorry about what happened to you, if you change my mind, I'll be in my quarters later. I'd love it if you'd come over for dinner." she says and walks out

I sigh again and head to the shower. Maybe a cold one is needed.

I come out of the shower and get dressed again, and call out his name.

"Q! Enough! No hijinks! Not this time. Not with her!" I shout

No response of course. Anticipating the answer I ask the computer where Vash is.

"Representative Vash is on the main bridge."

Oh no.

I bolt up to the bridge as fast as I can and come out of the turbolift as the doors make their iconic swooshing sound. I peer down over the horseshoe and low and behold, Vash is entertaining a group of senior officers as she sits in Jean-Luc's chair. Beverly is the first to spot me.

"Adam."

"Doctor..." I reply as Riker, Worf, and Geordi are all present listening to Vash.

"I'd like to introduce you to a Representative of---"

"We've met before, Vash...what are you doing here?" I ask as the others expression turn into bewilderment

"You were busy, the Captain was busy, and I was bored, so decided to take a bit of a tour of the ship and ended up here." she says with that smug smile. I sigh again

"Great...but I don't think---" as I'm about to say his name the Captain comes out of his ready room, and his expression drops as he spots Vash in his chair.

"Look Captain, Vash is here!" I exclaim deciding to be a dick

"I can see being a Starship Captain has it's rewards." she says purring and Riker has an absolutely incredulous look on his face. He can scarcely comprehend what is going on between the three of us.

"I'm glad you approve." Picard says dead pan

"I suppose I'll return to my quarters and prepare for the reception....my invitation to dinner still stands, Mr. Young." she says to me

"By all means, I will see you at the reception. Mr. Young can escort you to your quarters." he says

"Aye sir."

"Fascinating woman." I hear Will quip

You don't know what the half of it. I escort Vash to her quarters.

"I thought you were going to wait for me here, were those theatrics neccessary? You KNOW Jean-Luc doesn't like to be embarrassed." I say

"Ah so you were going to take me up on my offer after all, and my intent was not to embarrass Jean-Luc."

"Then what was it?"

"To get your attention of course, silly." she is close now again and I allow her

"I never said I never cared about you Vash. I don't have any feelings for you." I reply

"I find that extremely hard to believe." she says as she runs a finger up and down my chest.

"Why are you lingering here, Mr. Young? You've carried out your orders. You're dismissed." she just as curtly

Insufferable woman.

"Okay fine. We're doing this. Good luck with the speeches."

"You won't be at the reception?" she asks genuinely sounding disappointed

"Archelogy isn't exactly my brand of history, I find it too dry." I reply with a wink

"I bet I could find ways to make it less dry." she replies

Oh boy.

"I'm gonna leave now...good luck." I say and force myself to leave

I return to my quarters all flustered and just as I'm about to kick back and try to relax...it happens. I hear that familiar OTHER swooshing sound effect with that TWINE, and I'm no longer on the Enterprise. Instead wearing clunky knight's armor in a clearing. I hear another sound and the others join me. This isn't Nottingham though.

"Where is this? What's going on?" demands Picard

I look at the others. They're all wearing armor. Including Deanna, and Beverly. Uh-oh.

"Q..." I utter

"Q!" exclaims Picard

"I'm afraid this is Q's doing, sir. A way of paying us back for helping him out last year, when he lost his powers." I explain

"What are we supposed to be? This is English armor. Dark Ages from the looks of it." he notes as he examines his chest piece

I nod as I see the Great Castle ahead of us. Camelot on a huge hill. Damn it Q.

"We are in the Arthurian Legend. I'm King Arthur, you Captain are Lancelot I assume, and the rest of you are my Knights of the Round Table."

"I am NOT a Knight." Worf replies

"Neither are the rest of us." Picard states

"I would agree, but for the foreseeable future we are exactly that." I say as I hear horse hoofs rumbling on the ground It is Q along with an escort.

"Q! We have no desire to play this game of yours. Release Vash, and return all of us back to the Enterprise!" I demand

"Vash?" Picard exclaims alarmed now

"Q? Vash? I know not of these names, or what game you are referring to Arthur. I assure you that this is no game. I have come to give you heed that we have captured the fair Guinevere and are holding her captive at my stronghold. If you wish to see her alive again, you WILL meet me in battle in two days henceforth, or she will be executed. So says Maleagant."

Maleagant? He's pulling from "First Knight". Really reaching into my fantasy here.

"We don't have time for this." Riker bemoans

"I agree. However under the circumstances we have no choice but to play along, this time." I say

"Why? Why are you King Arthur, and why am I Lancelot?" Picard asks and I sigh

"This is my fault. Q is doing this to...try...to...force...me to acknowledge my feelings...for Vash." I say through gritted teeth

"For Vash?" Picard says surprised

"Yes sir. I didn't know..." he replies

"I know...and that was by design. Now though...things have changed and Q is determined to have this play out...in this way."

Deanna giggles and I toss her a Batman glare which stops her.

"I understand all of this is bewildering for all of you, and I apologize for that. This is real though, and we are in potential danger. I suggest that we return to Camelot and begin planning how we're going to rescue Vash." I say and the others agree with me.

Inside Camelot...which has been replicated with incredible detail. We sit at the Round Table in the Main Hall. There are guards on the upper level. I half listen as my knights argue on best how to attack our enemy. I get impatient finally.

"ENOUGH!" my voice echoes throughout the hall.

"Captain, I maybe King Arthur, but I'm no King, I can lead if needed to...but you're the Captain still. I will follow whatever you decide to do, especially considering this is our...private business being carried out in the open. To the rest of you...I apologize sincerely, you've gotten yourself roped into a potentially dangerous situation. However I need us all in the same page if we're to...get through whatever hijinks Q has planned for us."

"Agreed." Picard says

"Do you have a plan?" asks Riker who is Sir Bedevere
I look up at again and a surprise flood of...Arthur's memories suddenly flood me as I remember building this place with MERLIN, long since gone now. Merlin...I could use you know old friend. I hear myself say.

"I don't have a plan"

Picard sees my solemn frustrated expression

"You have nothing to apologize for my Liege, this is the malcontent Malagent's treachery, and sorcery!! He seeks to divide us, sire. We will not allow that to happen." he says in character and that gets me to smile

"Well said of course my friend." I Reply

"PAGE! MAP!" Picard orders

A boy of about 12 or so rushes into the room and unrolls a huge map upon the table of the realm. Pax Arthur.

"We will need to storm the castle on two fronts. We will use our arrows to distract Malagnet, while you sneak into the castle and rescue the Queen. Bedevere and Kai (Worf) will provide you with cover." Picard says

A sound beginning.

"That seems reasonable." I mutter still distracted by all of this

"I've never done something like this before, sir." I say seriously

"It's time to push that enhanced body my liege." Beverly says that gets my attention

"Indeed. The rest of you are dismiss. I wish to confer with the King." Picard says getting into character now

"Aye." Riker says

I watch as they all file out and through the various great columns as Jean-Luc and I are alone. I sit down in Arthur's chair.

"Captain..." I start

"My name is Lancelot my liege." he says

I look at him. Okay it's time to play the part now, if he's going to.

"Old Friend. I apologize again. It would seem I've gotten us into---"

"You have nothing to apologize for Arthur. Malegant is responsible for this latest scheme, as for your wife...what I had with her, is over now. If she is interested in you, you have my full permission to pursue her." Picard says

"Thank you Old Friend. Leave me now please." and he nods out of respect


The next day we storm Malegant's castle, with a full two battalion of knights---roughly a thousand people. Lancelot---Picard leads them into battle while I slice through Malegant's perimeter forces and reach spire where Vash is. Or so I assume. This is not the castle from the episode so I might be making a huge mistake. I enter while fighting gallantly---hearing Excalibur HUM and WHINE as I slice men...this is a combination of "Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves", "First Knight", and "Excalibur". Q has been observing me more than I realized. I'm going to have to talk to him about that at some point. Finally I reach the chambers where I assume Vash is being held and bash open the door much to her surprise. In the actual episode she spurns Jean-Luc's original rescue out of pride, I REALLY hope she doesn't do this here because I don't think we're getting a second chance to pull this off.

"Adam!"

"Hello Vash. "

"You came for me."

"Of course I did. I wasn't going to let you get executed...."

"That Q...Malegant....he's responsible for all this?"

"Yes. We'll talk on the way. The others are downstairs raiding the castle. We don't have time. Vash please!"

"I'm not going." Vash says crossing her arms. Fucking hell.

Two guards rush me up and I swing Excalibur slicing both their heads off as they tumble backwards as I rush to shut the door. The handmaiden looks exasperated as Vash continues to be pissed.

"Vash...we don't have time. IF you stay here, you will be killed in the morning. For real. This is not a game even though it appears to be like that. We are...where we are.."

"I'm not going with you until you admit the truth."

They try and bash the door in. Fuck me.

"Vash...damn it. FINE. You want me to acknowledge my feelings for you? How's this for fuck's sake?"

I approach her and grab her and kiss her hard on the lisps...it is absolutely amazing. Like fire. I kiss her again and she wraps her hands around my head and brings me closer to her.

"That's a start." she says and I stare at her

"What?!"

"Mi' lady please!" the handmaiden whines and I agree

"You need to say the words."

"Q! ENOUGH! This is over. Send us home."

"TELL me how you feel Adam."

The door weakens and splinters....sigh. Why am I hesitating? I'm in the clear now.

"All right. Fine. I LOVE you Vash. More than you will ever possibly---"

She kisses me again.

"Q!"

I hear that familiar swoosh and just like that we are back in my quarters. Q in uniform, sits on my couch and slow claps.

"Well done mon ami. "

"Picard to Young?"

I see my comm badge on my shirt. I tap it.

"Young here, go ahead sir."

"I assume that Vash is with you?"

Arms around each other's waists we smile.

"Yes sir...and everyone else?"

"All accounted for."

"Well done, Mr. Young. I will see you at the reception. Picard out."

"Bravo indeed Adam. It was a masterful performance. I didn't think you had it in you!"

"Q! You could have gotten us all killed. I understand you push people to reach their fullest potential but this was NOT the way to go about doing this! A simple thank you would have sufficed."

"Ahhhh. But then where's the fun of that?" he asks standing up

"He does have a point you know." Vash agrees

"I like her already! I see what Jean-Luc and you see in her!"

I sigh.

"Q has a pitch for you...but I ask before you accept it---I uh--I'd like you to stay for a couple of days before you go."

Q has a shit eating grin.


Vash touches me on my chest and it's electric.

"It must be a pretty serious offer if you want me to stay, considering what we've just gone through together though...hmmm...I wasn't just gonna up and leave. What's the offer...Q?"

"An opportunity, one that doesn't come along too often for mere mortals. I am offering you a chance to travel with me. To go and see anything, anywhere, at any time...no catch, no danger...and yes mon ami I give you my word that no harm will come to her, she will have protection. Do you accept Vash?" a safari hat appears in his hand as he offers it to Vash

"I still don't understand who are what you are." she says

"You will if you accept the offer. I promise!"

She turns to me, and I shrug.

"He means what he says. He won't allow anything to happen to you, because if it does, he knows that i would scour the cosmos for him and kick his ass."

"You do care!" I nod

Vash takes the hat and puts it on and just like that they're both gone. I sigh. Damn it.

Then just as quick as they vanished. They reappear and Vash is in her full safari get up and has a huge smile and jumps into my arms. My knees almost buckle from the suddenness of the action. Q appears in his outfit. I scowl at him but then Vash kisses me.

"That was fast." I say

"We were gone a long time...oh Adam it was amazing."

"I bet it was...Q?"

"She promised to stay...and you've earned this mon ami, but I'll be back my erstwhile travelling companion!"

"Thank you." I say
Q bows and tips his hat.

"No Adam, I thank you. Have fun you two! I'll see you soon Vash!"

Q vanishes. Vash kisses me as I put her down and grab her by the waist.

"What was it like?" I ask as she starts to remove my jacket

"Oh Adam, it was absolutely incredible. Words can not describe the things I saw...and did!"

"I can only imagine." We start kissing as she lifts up my shirt and I start to undress her

"We can talk about that later though...I have more important business right now."

"What about the symposium?"

"We have a few minutes."

"I was hoping for longer..." she giggles

"We'll make up for lost time Adam, don't you worry."

We strip the remainder of our clothes and head to the bed to make love.

Vash ends up staying for a few days and we get to know each other.

"I know this will be impossible for both of you, but try and stay out of trouble." I tell them while holding hands with Vash

"I'll try my best to behave."

"You have my word that no harm will come to her mon ami!" he salutes me

"Thank you. I'm not sure if I will ever see you again, but I want you to know that I do love you Vash. If you ever decided to settle down, I'd consider marrying you, but I know that will never happen. Thank you for everything."

She kisses me.

"Thank you as well...and Adam...I know you've gone through a lot. But don't keep it all bottled up. Talk to Deanna. REALLY talk to Deanna about this."

I nod.

"Good journey, to you both."

They both nod, then Vash smiles and just like that I hear that finger snap and that swoosh, and they're gone.

"That was fun, while it lasted." I mutter

It is suddenly the beginning of October 2367. This past year has been a complete blur. It's gone by faster than I anticipated. Partially dealing with...what happened...has daunting at best. Exhausting at worst. The Enterprise has taken on a Klingon exobiologist named J'Dan. He has kept mostly to him. I have thought nothing of it...until it happens again.

"Picard to Young."

"Young here sir?"

"There's been an...incident in main engineering. Report to my ready room please."

"Aye sir."

The Drumhead has begun. Shit. I have to deal with Admiral Satie again. Adam calm.

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I enter Captain Picard's ready room and he hands me a PAAD.


"We have a problem, I suspect you know what it is."

"There was an explosion in engineering. J'Dan has been accused, and is being interrogated by Riker and Troi right now."

"Yes. Did he do it?" Picard asks bluntly

I read the report given to me and am surprised.

"This shouldn't have happened sir."

"What?

"When the Enterprise was docked at McKingley undergoing her repairs...the Corp of Engineers were about to install what would later...now...be discovered as a faulty dilithium chamber hatch. While I was on Earth though I alerted them to the issue and when asked about it afterwards, they assured me that they had replaced it with another one. This shouldn't have happened still."


Picard tugs on his uniform.

"Do you suspect sabotage?"

I hand Picard back the PADD as I shake my head.

"No, however J'Dan is a spy for the Romulans."

"I see. This is extremely concerning. You are of course aware of Admiral Satie?" Picard asks and I openly grown

"Yes sir. She was played a critical role in exposing, and helping Starfleet recover from the Conspiracy Aliens incident. I also know that she is a former Starfleet Commander-In-Chief and highly regarded."

"The Admiral despite her demeaner and conduct at your hearing...is considered one of the most decorated and respected officers of this era. If J'Dan is a spy as you claim, she will be appointed to head an investigation. Are you...prepared to deal with her again?"

I smile.

"Yes sir, I will be at my upmost professional. I am still training, after all."

"Indeed. Very well...thank you Mr. Young. You're dismissed."

"Sir?"

"Yes?"

"Admiral Satie...despite my...dislike for her...I respect her. However, this is not going to end well. I recommend that Starfleet send someone more level headed to carry out this investigation."

Picard nods and I get up to leave. This is not going to be fun at all.

Starfleet ignores my request which Captain Picard makes on my behalf and Admiral Satie is sent to lead the investigation. I am called to the ready room again.

"Ah Mr. Young. Prompt timing as always. I believe you know Admiral Satie."

"Admiral."

"This is her..."

"Hello Sabin...I don't think you'd like what's in my head so much." he frowns and Satie scowls at me

"Captain, I assure you that having Sabin present for this investigation will have it go smoother...and quicker."

"I have...misgivings about using a Betazoid in this investigation, Admiral."

"Do you not utilize Counsellor Troi for the same actions Captain?"

Picard glances at me and sighs

"Yes...nevertheless I still feel uneasy. Mr. Young this is Admiral Satie's assistant...."

"Nellen Tore of Delb II. Expert in analytics and data consumption. " I nod to her

"Admiral...I sense an uncomfortableness from Mr. Young. He doesn't want us here."

Damned right I don't.

"Why is that Mr. Young? I find myself surprised that you yourself didn't expose J'Dan as a spy when he first came on board." Oh you don't miss a beat...

I look at the Captain and he frowns. He raises his hand.

"This is not a hearing. Mr. Young is here in his capacity as special civilian consultant----"

"A position in which he is not qualified for and should not have been granted." Satie says

Fuck me it's starting already. BIT---Adam calm.

"Your colleagues within Starfleet Command disagree with you Admiral, with all respect." I reply

"Please...I think we should begin the investigation. Admiral, you said you wanted to begin in main engineering."

"Very well..."

I watch as everyone leaves.

J'Dan admits to being a Romulan spy immediately but won't give any further details. He's shipped off the ship right away and the investigation leads to poor Simon Tarses, but I interject.

"Why are we investigating Crewmen Tarses? Why is this investigation even including Enterprise crew members?" I ask when we're in Picard's ready room

"Elaborate." Satie says

"Simon Tarses has absolutely nothing to do with this. The dilithium chamber hatch was replaced at Earth Station McKingley. As I mentioned to you before during my...interview with Sabin...I notified the Corp of Engineers working on the Enterprise's repairs about the faulty hatch. They stated to me that they would investigate and replace it. I had assume they did, since THIS still happened...I can only assume that IF there is a conspiracy here of any kind...the culprits behind it infiltrated McKingley station and are NOT present on the Enterprise."

"He is telling the truth, Admiral. Though he is still hiding something."

I'm sorry Simon, but I'll make it up to you, I swear.

"For fuck's sake...Captain, I apologize, but for clarities sake and so these false accusations and assumptions can cease...Simon Tarses has Romulan heritage that he has hidden---"

The three morons gasp and I continue.

"However I can speak on behalf of Crewman Tarses, is is NOT involved with this whatsoever. The Admiral and Nellen's continued belief that J'Dan could not possibly have done anything like this by himself is false. That is the whole point of a conspiracy...there are multiple people involved....the Admiral's experience with the Conspiracy Aliens three years ago has made her paranoid of all things---"

"That is enough!" Satie shouts

"Admiral..." Captain Picard says not liking where this is heading

"No. I have tolerated this...behavior long enough. From this point forward until further notice Adam Young is suspended from his duties as Special Civilian Consultant, and ordered to confinement in his quarters."

"On what grounds?" Picard asks

"On the grounds of interfering with my investigation."

"WHAT?!" I exclaim incredulously. I am bamboozled!

"Admiral, Mr. Young has performed his duties---"

"No. My mind is made up. The hearings will continue, and we call Mr. Young to testify as well."

Picard looks at me and I shrug and turn and leave without waiting to be dismissed.


I sit in the same chair that Captain Picard did in the episode proper from our reality...and this investigation has gone off the rails. This wasn't about, finding justice. This turned out to be a witch hunt, but not with Simon Tarses, but ME. Vice-Admiral Thomas Henry has arrived as well to help oversee the proceedings.
"Your full name." Sabin states

"Adam Christopher Young."

"Position?"

"Starfleet Special Consultant."

"How long have you had this post?"

"Since Stardate 43001."

"Very well, Admiral?"

"If you don't mind...I have something to say."

"You will have an opportunity to make a statement, later." Sabine says hard

"I believe that Chapter Four, Article Twelve of the Uniform Code of Justice grants me the right to make a statement before questioning begins."

Luckily for me this is a Federation law for citizens, of which I was made last year.

"Very well."

I compose myself to make Captain Picard's famous speech.

"I am deeply concerned what has been happening here. It began when a spy was apprehended, whom admitted his guilt, and will answer for his crime. But it didn't stop there. My concerns about a deeper issue were ignored when I...outed Crewman Simon Tarses for being half Romulan...and this hearing was convened which has uncovered zero connections other than a simple conversation between Tarses and the aforementioned spy. Mister Tarses career now stands in ruin, and that I am fully responsible for...but it has led us down a darker path, a path that has led away from any real potential suspects...to finding myself accused. For no reason. Have we become so fearful? So cowardly that we must extinguish a man because he carries the blood of a current enemy? Admiral, let us not condemn Simon Tarses, or anyone else, because of their bloodlines, or investigate others for their innocent associations. I implore you, do not continue with this proceeding. End it now."

"Mr. Young...for those present and aren't familiar with you...where exactly do you come from?"

I stare at the panel, then the gallery where my friends are sitting.

"I come from an alternate reality."


"Specifically an alternate reality of the past where this...all of us here...are a television show. Correct?"

"Yes."

"This has given you an unique advantage in our reality, hasn't it? You have been able to use your knowledge of our...characters...from that show to guide you through your journey in this reality."

"Yes."

"This ability has made you an invaluable member of this crew , you have saved countless members of the Enterprise senior staff, as well as complete strangers that you've encountered on previous missions. Correct?"

"Yes"

I have an idea of where this is going.

"Admiral...if I--

"I am the one asking the questions here Mr. Young."

"Yes sir."

"There have also been a number of occasions where that has failed...or a specific alternate outcome occurred. Correct?"

"Correct."

"You attempted to warn the Captain of the Vulcan Ambassador T'Pell did you not?"

"Yes..."

"Yet she was able to still be carried over to the enemy was she not?"

"Yes."

"Both the Captain and Mr. Young did what they could...the Enterprise could have been captured by the Romulans!" Worf exclaims

"Really, Lieutenant? And where were you when this traitor was on board the Enterprise? Where was ship's Security?" asks Satie getting heated more and more by the moment

"Lieutenant." The Captain says and Worf stands down again

"You knew that The Klingon exobiologist J'Dan was a spy, yet didn't inform Captain Picard about it until AFTER the explosion in main engineering happened. I want to know why."

"I don't have an answer for you that will satisfy the question, Admiral."

"I see. Mr. Young...have you completely recovered from your ordeal with the Borg?" and there it is...

"For the most part yes Admiral. I have completely recovered."

"But not fully? Can you elaborate."

No I can't you BI---Adam calm.

"I still experience nightmares occasionally."


"It must have been awful for you, actually becoming one of them, being forced to use your vast knowledge to aid the Borg. Just how many of our ships were lost? Thirty nine? And a loss of life, I believe, measured at nearly eleven thousand. One wonders how you can sleep at night, having caused so much destruction. I question your actions, Young! I question your choices. I question your loyalty!"

I do the Captain's face palm because I'm legit tired of this. I know how he felt now. I take a couple of minutes to myself before re-composing myself. I really would like to punch someone right now in their face. Calm.

"Recently, during my studies to become a Starfleet Security Officer, I came across words that touched me...that I feel should never be forgotten. With the first link, the chain is forged. The first speech censured, the first thought forbidden, the first freedom denied, chains us all irrevocably. Those words were uttered by Judge Aaron Satie as wisdom and warning. The first time any man's freedom is trodden on, we're all damaged. I fear that today."

This enrages the Admiral and she fully stands out and points at me with her rage.

"How dare you! You who pretend to be what you're not! Invoking my father's words to support your traitorous arguments! It is an offence to everything I hold dear. And to hear those words used to subvert the United Federation of Planets. My father was a great man. His name stands for integrity and principle. You dirty his name when you speak it. He loved the Federation, but you, Young, corrupt it. You undermine our very way of life. I will expose you for what you are. I've brought down bigger men than you, Young!"

Admiral Henry leaves.


"Perhaps we should call a recess." Sabin says

I immediately walk out. Disgusted, and tired. I also now need to deal with Simon.

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I hear the door chime beep.

"Come."

Deanna comes in and I look up.

"Come to check up on me after the witch hunt?"

Deanna offers a sympathetic look and I gesture for her to sit down beside me.

"Admiral Henry along with Satie and her entourage have departed from the Enterprise. Starfleet Command has ordered a new investigation to focus on Earth Station McKingley. Admiral Nechayev is in charge of it."

I nod

"You did well on the stand...how are you feeling?"

"I am tired Deanna. I'm not used to having my integrity questioned...or my personal life trampled on as it was like that."

"I know. It's over now though."

"No, I fear this is just the beginning of a darker path we are about to all venture down on. I didn't just invoke Judge Satie's famous words to provoke the Admiral...I meant every word of his that he spoke as a message. We're dangerously close to things changing Deanna...war is on the horizon, and I---I just don't know if we're prepared enough for it."

"This...Dominion War you have talked about."

"Yes. Not just them though. The Federation is being tested for really the first time in it's history. The Borg. The Cardassians. The Romulans are actively working against us. All of it leading up to the Dominion War which will take its toll on the galaxy. We need to be ready to win it...or else all will be lost, and things like this? Are a distraction from the end game."

"Admiral Satie was used to peace Adam. Most of us grew up in an era that had very little conflict. We will get there though. It might take us awhile...plus you already know, I suspect that we win the war."

"That doesn't matter. It comes at too high a price. I've been trying to lower or eliminate that price entirely."

She nods.

"I'll leave you be. My door is always open though...if you need to talk. You know that."

"Thank you Counsellor."

"You should go and talk to Simon. He didn't deserve what happened, I know you didn't mean anything by what you did, but he deserves a conversation at the very least."

A gentle chastising. I deserve more than that for what I nod. I was planning on doing just that anyways.

"Dinner tonight, Will's been wondering when you'd be around."

"As long as it's not pizza again. Commander Riker's pizza is fire, but honestly I'm ready for something else now."

Deanna laughs.

"I'll make sure he understands that. 19:30?"

"Sure."

I watch as she gets up and leaves. I steady myself and head to Sickbay.

I find Simon Tarses arranging some random medical supplies. He sees me and backs away. I honestly don't blame him. I violated an unspoken trust I shouldn't have. I used my...abilities...to indirectly harm someone.

"Simon...I've come to talk."

"I have nothing to say to you." he says cold as ice

Ouch. I nod to myself. I can't blame him for the way he feels.

"I understand that. I won't take up any of your time. I just wanted to apologize for what happened. I shouldn't have said---I shouldn't have done what I did. It was unfair and a violation. I guess, I just wanted to let you know that I will do whatever I can to make sure nothing happens to you. You didn't deserve what happened."

He stops filing away whatever he is rummaging around with and turns to me.

"I'm not bothered by the fact that you outed me. I understood what was happening, I understand what you thought you had to do...but what gets me, what disappoints me Mr. Young, is that you didn't come to me FIRST with your plan. You didn't ASK. I know I should have gone to the Captain, and I knew that YOU knew, but I always thought when that time came, you would have come to me first. When you didn't---THAT is what I was pissed about, and it hurts like hell you didn't. I thank you for whatever you feel you need to do, but I think it's best we just stay out of each other's way. Thank you."

That stings the most and he goes back to shelving supplies. I nod. This is a lesson learned. No matter what the situation, I can't just go blabbing out personal details...at least not without consent of the person.

Dinner with Riker and Troi was great. It wasn't pizza, it was pasta, and was delicious.


The investigation into the replacement dilithium hatch reveals what I feared and suspected. Increased Romulan involvement in an attempt to destabilize Federation affairs, and specifically the Alliance with the Klingon Empire. This is something that I did not expect at all to happen, something new. Something has changed, possibly because of things that I have changed already. Admiral Nechayev makes contact with me.

"This discovery, has deeply concerned Starfleet Command. This increased Romulan aggression...they've never dared impose themselves this deep into our space before, let alone attack us like this. Attempted sabotage of our flag ship is a bold move even for them. It would help me greatly to understand their motivation if you could clarify for us who exactly it is that we are dealing with."

"You are going to have a difficult time believing what I have to say, Admiral."

Nechayev smiles slightly.

"I've read your reports Mr. Young. I have begun to become accustomed to...believing...the impossible."

"Are you familiar at all with Tasha Yar, sir?"

"Yes. Lt. Yar was the Enterprise's original security chief during their first year...I believe she was killed in action, tragically."

"That's correct. I believe that the Romulan faction responsible for these attacks against us...are being led by her half Romulan daughter...Sela."

"Ahhh...the impossible part. Explain Mr. Young."

"I encountered an alternate reality where we were in a blood war against the Klingons...Tasha was alive in this reality. When the Enterprise-C went back into the past to encounter the Romulans at Narenda III, there were survivors. Tasha apparently was one of them and was taken prisoner but spared...one of the Romulan Generals, became enamored with her and offered to make her his consort and he would spare the rest of the prisoners. Tasha agreed, and from this...union...Sela was born."

"Fascinating. So both Mother and Daughter existed without knowing each other...I mean the Tasha Yar of our reality."

"Yes."

"Sela...her faction is in league with House Duras. Is that what I'm understanding from all of this?"

"Yes. Although that is coming to a head soon too I'm afraid."

"Yes, we have projected that a Klingon Civil War is about to break out...I assume this has been managed and manipulated by her forces?"

"Correct sir."

"I trust this incident with the dilithium hatch...specifically the ACTUAL Romulan involvement part, doesn't happen in the show?"

"No sir. Something has changed, I have no idea why or how."

"I see. Very well. Mr. Young...Adam...I wanted to touch base with you today because I have a proposal for you."

The Deep Space Nine theme begins in my head...da da daaaaa da da da daaaaa....

"I accept."

"You haven't heard what it is yet..."

"I don't need to. I know a little bit about you from the show. I know enough to know where your heart and mind lay...and that while you maybe...hard...you want only the best for the Federation. I was happy Admiral Shanthi appointed you Head of Starfleet Security. I can think of no better person to lead it."

"Very well. I suspect that we have common cause on a great many things. I will keep in touch with you."

"Aye sir."

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Author's Note: I wanted to briefly address some of the critiques I've seen properly. First of all, THANK YOU FOR ALL OF THEM. I do read them, and I take them seriously, even if I disagree with them sometimes. First things first. The folks who have "complained" and yes I'm going to use that word---of the shipping. I am a shipper. There's going to be relationships throughout this entire story. I don't agree with the notion that SI Adam is "sleeping with everyone". I don't even think that it SEEMS that way either. He's extremely careful with the partners that have happened. I'm very open with my personal sexual experience in story, so I kind of honestly laughed at both persons who pointed that out. I've read SI's where the SI IS actually sleeping with everyone. I think there is a place for that, but I also believe that it has to be STORY ORIENTED and serve a purpose. All of the people you have read SI Adam with, are folks that I would have personally tried to have a relationship with if this was happening in real life. I tried to write as if it were really happening to me. That is why there is a bunch of REAL life stuff that I have shared with you all IN THIS. Including that I'm not sexually experienced at my age. I take ZERO shame in that, and yes on occasion I'm taking creative license in order to tell the story I want to tell. If that's not for you, well thank you very much for checking this out. I'm not about to alter anything.

Secondly...I wanted to touch on RUSHED chapters. Interesting. If there IS that perception, then it is def intentional on my part. I wanted to give a sense of TIME going by, that things are overwhelming SI Adam, so while I could spend meticulous time describing everything that he does...and interacts with, I chose a kind of different narrative to pass the plot a bit.

Again keep all the discussion and critiques coming. If anyone has plot suggestions, I will certainly keep them in mind. Without further adieu...another short chapter!


The Enterprise hosts Timicin, as things return to normal after the whole Satie incident. I avoid Simon as he wishes. Timicin of course is here to conduct his stellar ignition experiment to help revive the sun of his home planet. Lwaxana is also onboard and immediately pesters Captain Picard. I decide to go and intervene on his behalf,

"On what grounds?" Morani asks

"Diplomatic Security Escort." I reply

"There are others that are more qualified." she replies

"I know, but they're all annoyed by Ambassador Troi. I am not." I reply with a grin. Maia sighs and nods and head to the ready room and of course The Ambassador is delighted to see me

"Captain. You sent for me?" I ask

"Yes of course. Report, Mr. Young."

"You're needed in Main Engineering. Data and Geordi have completed the modifications on the photon torpedo's that our guest requires and require you to...approve it."

"Very Good. I apologize but I need to go Ambassador."

"I would be delighted to accompany the Ambassador, Captain."

I offer Laxawana my arm and she takes it as Picard silently says thank you to me as he quickly brushes past me.

"You know you are a kind man, but a terrible liar Mr. Young?" she says

"So I have been told many times. My offer is sincere though Ambassador. I'm always delighted when you're aboard."

"It seems you're the only one who is."

"Your arrival is actually a little untimely, we're hosting a preeminent scientist from Kaelon II who is attempting to revive their sun."

"Oh poor dear. He must be under tremendous stress."

"You don't know the half of it."

Lwaxana of course insists on meeting him, Remember you can't hide much from me Adam, I would like to help if I can. Fine Lwaxana, I take her to main engineering to meet the great man. David Odgen Stiers, Major Charles Winchester III himself! If I recall correctly the experiment is going to fail...but I don't think it was ever explained how as the plot focused afterwards to Timicin having to commit suicide as he turns 60 as all his people do.

I wish there was something I could do to alter this episode, but my knowledge of how they work is still extremely limited. Something to do with a controlled matter-anti matter explosion. I've seen the inner workings of a torpedo tube up close and personal twice now. I still don't get the engineering involved and probably never will. All I know how to really do is press the button on Worf's tactical console now and input the coordinates.

Timicin's experiment fails and he prepares to leave for home. Ambassador Troi is shocked to find out about the suicide rule, and the two of them attempt to fight it. Lwaxana comes to me demanding that I do something on the Doctor's behalf.

"I'm really sorry Lwaxana. There's absolutely nothing I can do for him. I've thought about this...episode...a lot and knew it was something that you were going to deal with. I sympathize with your pain, but I can't save him. I'm sorry."

She nods sadly and the rest of the episode transpires as it does with them leaving.

We skip the Data/Jenna stuff and jump right into...the Klingon Civil War. Also Geordi isn't kidnapped by the Romulans as he and Sonya go elsewhere for their vacation.

Next Up: Civil War!!!

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The rest of the year unfolds without incident as the Klingon Civil War looms ever closer. Starfleet Command continues to investigate Romulan involvement in Federation space but thus far has found nothing other than the dilithium hatch incident. The working theory, and it is one that I concur with for the moment, that Sela's faction has cooled down after J'Dan was exposed. He had no ties with her---but was probably working for the Tal'Shiar or perhaps another faction. Damn Romulans. They've so many thumbs in pies, one hand doesn't know what the other is doing HALF the time.

Christmas and my birthday pass without incident this year. I mark the one year anniversary of becoming Locutus...Deanna encourages this as a means of trying to reach closure, even though we both agree that I will never have closure from this. I also turn 46 years old to a big birthday party to make up for what happened last year. Everyone attends, Diana Giddings gets me smashed, apparently it's a thing where everyone wants to see me drunk, I am "Fun Adam" when I'm drunk--and then Gowron requests the Enterprise's presence to full fill Captain Picard's role as the Arbiter of Succession. The Enterprise sets course for Qo'nos.

Chancellor Gowron beams aboard the Enterprise as my presence is requested in the conference room. He is already there talking with the Captain when he sees me and bares his teeth in that classic Robert O'Reilly smile.

"Ahhhhhhh here he is on time as usual. It is good to see you, Mr. Young. Your reputation proceeds you."

"It is my honor to finally meet you, Chancellor." and I bow

"Bah, you need not bow to me. I saw what happened to you last year with the Borg. It takes a man of great courage and honor to endure what you had to...you truly are someone not to be trifled with."

I Am Locutus of Borg....You Will Lower Your Shields, and Disarm All Weapons...

"Coming from you Chancellor that is a great honor indeed. Thank you. I take it Lursa and B'tor's forces are massing already against you?"

"Yes. Somehow they have been able to split the Council against me, and have a force numbering in the thousands...not to mention they claim they have a challenger, but I do not know who it could be since women can not serve on the Council."

"It is Toral, they've propped up to challenge you as a puppet Chancellor."

"Who?" Gowron asks

"Toral is the illegitimate son of Duras, the mother is unknown, at least to me. The sisters discovered him years ago and have been raising him in secret, hoping for the right opportunity to present him to the Council."


I suspect Sela might have helped in finding him.

"Dishonorable Qu'vatlh!!" he exclaims

"I agree, but it gets worse than that Chancellor."

"Explain."

Captain Picard does so for me

"Mr. Young believes that House Duras has been working with a faction of Romulans that are determined to undermine our alliance, in an effort to destabilize the quadrant and attempt to take control of it. Duras was working with them at the time of his death---and Mr. Young believes that Lursa and B'tor inherited their partnership. In fact their interests may align even more with this faction than his did."

"Who is this Romulan petaQ! I will gut them!"

"That would be rather impossible, Chancellor. She is called Sela, and has tremendous support from the military AND Senate. I'm not sure about the Tal'Shiar though...I suspect their involvement with her operation, but have no proof of it."

"Bah. That is all you can give me?" he asks

Seriously? I barely have told Captain Picard this. The balls on this Klingon.

"I do have some advice Chancellor."

"What do you know about winning wars?" he asks, a more than reasonable question

Admittedly not much. I suck at Risk.

"Not as much as you do Chancellor, but I do know it takes great men to win wars...and you have one in your service."

"I am listening."

"You are of course familiar with Captain Martok?"

"Yes. What of him?"

"I would recommend giving him a promotion and relying on him to command your front line vessels. Along with Captain Kurn, you will find you will have no better allies commanding your forces. Other than this bit of advice I'm afraid I can not provide you with anything else."

"And you Picard? I came seeking Federation aide."

"I am here to fulfill my duty as Arbiter of Succession, nothing more. The Federation can not become involved in a Klingon Civil War."

This is why Starfleet did not follow through with my threat assessment. Even through clandestine means, it is too much of a grey area. Maybe Section 31 attempted shit.

"I fear that will not be enough..."

"Chancellor one more thing." I say and Picard glances at me

"nuqneh?" he asks

"It is about Worf."

"What of him?"

"Adam..." Picard warns

"Forgive me Chancellor, it is not my place to speak on his behalf. However whatever information Worf shares with you...I one hundred percent confirm it."

Gowron smiles

"That is good enough for me."

Gowron leaves the conference room, leaving me with Captain Picard.

"Adam, I understand the pact that you have with Worf and Kurn, but you are I will remind you, under orders to uphold the Prime Directive as well. Whatever it is you are planning here...I suggest extreme caution."

"Understood sir. Whatever I do will not put the Enterprise---or the Federation in jeopardy."

"I know, but Klingon politics is best avoided in general...even the most brave tread carefully, as Curzon would have warned you." Picard says

With that warning I take my leave, while they head towards the Transporter Room where Worf will meet up with them.

The Game's On...

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The Enterprise arrives at Qo'nos.

"Picard to Young."

"Young here sir."

"Mr. Worf and I are about to depart the Enterprise to the Great Hall. I would appreciate it if you accompanied us."

"The Klingons won't' appreciate my presence..."

"Gowron has personally requested your presence, Adam." Picard says

"Understood. I'm on my way."

The three of us beam down to the Great Hall of the Klingon High Council. I don't have time to appreciate the fact that I am on Qu'nos. Imperial Guards greet us and escort us into the main chamber where Gowron sits on his throne. Council members stand around him. My memory is hazy about this part...all I remember is that the sisters formally introduce Toral here. I don't remember who is supposed to be present or not. T'Kall....the interim leader of the High Council, I think he is in charge of overseeing the Rite of Succession stands beside Gowron.

Picard looks at me and I just shrug. K'Tal addresses the Captain.

"naDev ghoS!"

I watch as Picard walks forward.

"Have you come to a decision regarding the succession of power?"

"Qaja plu d'itch jung. La woq you ghir klas qimha. Gowron. Doj hon. Doj hon." Picard replies in Klingonese

"Gowron, son of M'Rel, hakt'em. The Arbiter confirms that you have completed the Rite of Succession. Your enemies have been destroyed. You stand alone. Do you wish to claim leadership of the Council?"

"I wish it." Gowron confirms

I brace myself for the interruption.

"Are there no other challengers?" K'Tal booms across the Hall

Picard is about to place the Imperial cloak around Gowron's shoulders when, I hear the boy's voice.

"There is one. I will challenge him."

The boot steps stop. I see Toral stand before us and the Council. I exchange looks with Worf and shake my head. Not yet.

"An arrogant child." mocks Gowron

Damn Gowron, you're still in danger.

"Who are you?" demands K'Tal

"I am Toral. Son of Duras."

"Duras had no son!" Gowron roars

Then I hear HER voice, and shiver a little.

"But he did Gowron." B'Etor replies as the sisters appear

"So this is your doing Lursa? Young warned me of this." Gowron growls

The sisters spin to look at me. B'Etor points directly at me.

"This meddling pataq has no business in this place. It is bad enough Picard is here!"

I really didn't want to be here either B'Etor believe me. Please don't kidnap me.

"Mr. Young is present at the behest of Gowron." Picard says

"We wish to address the Council." Lursa states

"Lursa, B'Etor come forward." K'Tal says

"Members of the High Council, it is a day of great rejoicing for the family of Duras and the Klingon Empire. We have discovered that our brother did indeed have a son and heir."

"This is outrageous! Duras had no mate. Where did you find him, Lursa? In a harlot's bedchamber!?" Gowron spouts

I nearly laugh out loud but stop myself. I really don't wanna get stabbed. That would be bad.

"I will personally cut out your tongue, Yintagh!" exclaims Toral

"Impudent wretch!"

"Young...you know what we say is true! Tell them!" Lursa yelps at me

I see Picard shaking his head at me and I keep my mouth shut. I'm not getting involved in this more than I already have.

"A simple genetic scan will prove his bloodline is valid!" B'Etor says

"The illegitimate son of Duras can not rule the High Council." Gowron growls

He is correct, because that would mean that the Romulan Star Empire actually ruled the Empire.

"The Arbiter will consider his validity. Len'mat." K'tal rules

Later on I am sitting on Picard's couch in his ready room, waiting for Worf to arrive. The doors open and Worf walks in, sees me and the Captain begins their conversation.

"Mr. Worf...you are using our files on the Khitomer massacre against Duras father?"

"Yes sir."

"Do you not see an inherent conflict of interest here?"

"Worf, this is NOT what we agreed on." I add

Worf turns to me.

"I owe you much already for what you have done for my family, but I can no longer wait any longer to clear my father's name and restore my family's honor!"

Damn it Kurn. I see his whispers in this.

"I told you during the ceremony the three of us participated in last year that I had a plan. That plan required a measure of patience, and restraint. I understand that you and Kurn want to move now, but I promise you Worf, if you continue to restrain yourself and let events play out that everything will come out in the open...and you will be restored."

"Mister Worf. Here I am lecturing you on a conflict of interest while I'm desperately trying to avoid one of my own. Do you think I wish to allow the Duras family to solidify their hold on the Council? Do you think I cannot see for myself the implications for the Federation? Good Lord, Duras tried to have me killed! All of my instincts, my training, my very being as a Starfleet officer are at odds with my responsibilities as Arbiter of the Klingon High Council. We walk the same tightrope between two worlds, you and I. We must try our very best to keep those two worlds separate, or we shall certainly fall." Picard pleads

"Aye sir."

He tells Worf that he will make the files open to anyone who wants to read them, but that is as far as he will go. Worf looks at me, and I look at him with fire in my eyes. He nods as he leaves. Picard turns to face the port.

"Are you all right sir?"

"No Adam, I am not. We are the cusp of Civil War, a conflict in which even you have not been able to prevent, and I find myself contemplating how things will see themselves through. I don't have your confidence."

"No one has the benefit of having my knowledge sir. Things will work themselves out...but...unfortunately, sadly, millions of Klingons will have to die."

He turns around to look at me.

"This is not your fault Adam. Everything that happens, everything that happened in the show---you can not control or manipulate events enough to stop them. I have been reading on what is known as the butterfly effect. You have done all you can in this instance. "

"I thought I was trying to comfort you sir?"

Jean-Luc smiles. It is warm.

"What will Worf do?" he asks

"Worf and Kurn will commit their forces with Gowron. He'll resign his commission from Starfleet. I had hoped there was another way, so I understand his impatience, but somethings are just locked in place."

Picard nods.

"Then my hands are tied."

"Yes sir."

I leave the ready room and park myself on the "box" seat beside Deanna's chair. Shits about to go down.