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Star Trek The Next Generation The Gift: A Star Trek SI
- Thread starter DarkDestroyer
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Chapter One: Arrival 2365
DarkDestroyer
The Destroyer Of Worlds
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Hallo All. This is the first Self-Insert story that I ever wrote for pubic consumption. Four years of plotting, planning, refining, and a whole lot of help from various folks. I hope you like it. This is the first story in a larger universe of SI's.
Paramount Skydance Own Star Trek. For Entertainment Purposes Only. Non-Profit.
Let's jump right in!
"Star Trek: The Next Generation: The Gift"
Shortly after Stardate 42761.3 (Q Who)
"They found him in a Jefferies Tube near Main Engineering."
Is that... Worf?
"He was just laying there unconscious in these clothes."
Ohhhhh my head. What happened? W-where am I? I hear familiar humming as well as another voice says.
"I've never seen clothes like this before except in historical docs. Nothing is registering on any Federation database where ID is concerned."
How'd they do that? Did they take a DNA sample and run it through the database or something?
"That's unusual. Pulaski to Picard."
"Picard here. Go ahead Doctor."
"Sir, I think you should come down to sickbay, we have an unusual patient you might want to talk to." Pulaski? Picard? What? WHAT? WHAT?!!!
"Understood Doctor. I'm on my way."
"Doctor, he's coming around now." I am indeed as I lay on the bio bed and look up to see Doctor Selar and Doctor Pulaski.
"Ohhhhh...Pulaski." I manage to mutter. My head hurts
"You've sustained a blow to the head, we've taken care of it but you may be disorientated for a few more minutes." I'm in Star Trek The Next Generation??? Season Two??? On the Enterprise. I here a familiar whooshing sound as the doors to sickbay open and I see Captain Picard walk in with two other security guards. I look at them awestruck. I must look very humourous to them...except for Worf. Worf has a scowl on his face that would make any Klingon proud.
"This is the intruder we discovered in the Jefferies Tube near Main Engineering." Worf reports to the Captain. Thanks Worf. I hear more humming as I'm continued to be scanned with a medical tricorder. I am fully awake now
"Easy there, you're okay. You're on--"
"The Enterprise." I say bewildered. Picard approaches me and introduces himself---I cut him off though before he begins.
"Captain Jean-Luc Picard, commanding officer of the USS Enterprise NCC 1701-Delta. It is truly an honor sir, I apologize for cutting you off. "
It's fucking Sir Patrick Stewart!!! Gurney!!!!! What is going on here?
"I'm afraid you have me at a disadvantage sir...you appear to know who I am, but..." I stick out my hand
"Adam Christopher Young sir." Picard takes the hand and shakes it. It's a firm grip. Professional as fuck. As expected. I can't believe what is going on here.
"I know you have questions, and believe me I'd love to provide you with answers, but I don't have any. I am fully prepared to subject myself to any tests you wish to be run on me. I know where I'm supposed to be, and the Enterprise isn't it." Picard takes this in and tugs his uniform. He did the thing! He did the thing!! Holy fuck. My head hurts. Selar injects me with a hypo and talks to me like i'm a dog or something so that I understand. I know what it does Doc...oh. Ohhhhh.
"I can breathe. I can breathe!" I explain starting to cry.
"Yes..." begins Pulaski. "We've scanned several ailments in your system. The hypo contains a cure to put it so you can understand, for your chronic sinusitis. Quite frankly, I'm shocked at your pain threshold. I've never seen a body as wracked with pain from extremities as yours. All of this---including the club feet, are gone in our time."
"I'm a medical marvel Doc...and not in a good way. Every new Doctor I encounter says that to me."
"Who exactly are you and where do you come from?" Picard asks. I sigh.
"I'm gonna have to be honest here...that answer...you may not accept sir."
"Let me be the judge of that." Oh dear. What do I tell them? This is Jean-Luc Picard. Anij was right, the man exudes Trust.
"I am from an alternate reality, one in which all of you are characters in a television series." I say bluntly and realize how absolute cringe that must sound. I watch as they react to it.
"Assuming we can corroborate your claim, we will have to discuss what to do with you."
"I understand sir, but if I might make a suggestion?" Picard nods. He's always willing to hear suggestions from others, even strangers. It is an endearing leadership quality of his.
"Because of where I'm from, I have certain knowledge of events, and people. I can help. l am fully aware of all the prime directives, so I won't fully interfere with your development, but I can help prevent things that maybe aren't supposed to happen."
Picard's turn to exhale now. "I shall discuss this with my senior staff, and with Starfleet Command, and have a decision for you shortly. Until then you're to be confined to guest quarters and Counsellor Deanna Troi will be visiting you at her convenience."
I nod. Deanna!!! Marina!!! "Understood sir." Picard allows a brief smile.
"Welcome to the 24th Century Mr. Young."
"Thank you sir." I reply shaking his hand.
Paramount Skydance Own Star Trek. For Entertainment Purposes Only. Non-Profit.
Let's jump right in!
"Star Trek: The Next Generation: The Gift"
Shortly after Stardate 42761.3 (Q Who)
"They found him in a Jefferies Tube near Main Engineering."
Is that... Worf?
"He was just laying there unconscious in these clothes."
Ohhhhh my head. What happened? W-where am I? I hear familiar humming as well as another voice says.
"I've never seen clothes like this before except in historical docs. Nothing is registering on any Federation database where ID is concerned."
How'd they do that? Did they take a DNA sample and run it through the database or something?
"That's unusual. Pulaski to Picard."
"Picard here. Go ahead Doctor."
"Sir, I think you should come down to sickbay, we have an unusual patient you might want to talk to." Pulaski? Picard? What? WHAT? WHAT?!!!
"Understood Doctor. I'm on my way."
"Doctor, he's coming around now." I am indeed as I lay on the bio bed and look up to see Doctor Selar and Doctor Pulaski.
"Ohhhhh...Pulaski." I manage to mutter. My head hurts
"You've sustained a blow to the head, we've taken care of it but you may be disorientated for a few more minutes." I'm in Star Trek The Next Generation??? Season Two??? On the Enterprise. I here a familiar whooshing sound as the doors to sickbay open and I see Captain Picard walk in with two other security guards. I look at them awestruck. I must look very humourous to them...except for Worf. Worf has a scowl on his face that would make any Klingon proud.
"This is the intruder we discovered in the Jefferies Tube near Main Engineering." Worf reports to the Captain. Thanks Worf. I hear more humming as I'm continued to be scanned with a medical tricorder. I am fully awake now
"Easy there, you're okay. You're on--"
"The Enterprise." I say bewildered. Picard approaches me and introduces himself---I cut him off though before he begins.
"Captain Jean-Luc Picard, commanding officer of the USS Enterprise NCC 1701-Delta. It is truly an honor sir, I apologize for cutting you off. "
It's fucking Sir Patrick Stewart!!! Gurney!!!!! What is going on here?
"I'm afraid you have me at a disadvantage sir...you appear to know who I am, but..." I stick out my hand
"Adam Christopher Young sir." Picard takes the hand and shakes it. It's a firm grip. Professional as fuck. As expected. I can't believe what is going on here.
"I know you have questions, and believe me I'd love to provide you with answers, but I don't have any. I am fully prepared to subject myself to any tests you wish to be run on me. I know where I'm supposed to be, and the Enterprise isn't it." Picard takes this in and tugs his uniform. He did the thing! He did the thing!! Holy fuck. My head hurts. Selar injects me with a hypo and talks to me like i'm a dog or something so that I understand. I know what it does Doc...oh. Ohhhhh.
"I can breathe. I can breathe!" I explain starting to cry.
"Yes..." begins Pulaski. "We've scanned several ailments in your system. The hypo contains a cure to put it so you can understand, for your chronic sinusitis. Quite frankly, I'm shocked at your pain threshold. I've never seen a body as wracked with pain from extremities as yours. All of this---including the club feet, are gone in our time."
"I'm a medical marvel Doc...and not in a good way. Every new Doctor I encounter says that to me."
"Who exactly are you and where do you come from?" Picard asks. I sigh.
"I'm gonna have to be honest here...that answer...you may not accept sir."
"Let me be the judge of that." Oh dear. What do I tell them? This is Jean-Luc Picard. Anij was right, the man exudes Trust.
"I am from an alternate reality, one in which all of you are characters in a television series." I say bluntly and realize how absolute cringe that must sound. I watch as they react to it.
"Assuming we can corroborate your claim, we will have to discuss what to do with you."
"I understand sir, but if I might make a suggestion?" Picard nods. He's always willing to hear suggestions from others, even strangers. It is an endearing leadership quality of his.
"Because of where I'm from, I have certain knowledge of events, and people. I can help. l am fully aware of all the prime directives, so I won't fully interfere with your development, but I can help prevent things that maybe aren't supposed to happen."
Picard's turn to exhale now. "I shall discuss this with my senior staff, and with Starfleet Command, and have a decision for you shortly. Until then you're to be confined to guest quarters and Counsellor Deanna Troi will be visiting you at her convenience."
I nod. Deanna!!! Marina!!! "Understood sir." Picard allows a brief smile.
"Welcome to the 24th Century Mr. Young."
"Thank you sir." I reply shaking his hand.
Last edited:
Chapter Two: This Is Really Happening
DarkDestroyer
The Destroyer Of Worlds
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Paramount/SkyDance own Star Trek. For Entertainment Purposes Only. Non-Profit.
I am escorted to guest quarters by one of Worf's security members. The Enterprise is still undergoing repairs from the Borg attack, a lot of nerves are still on edge, rightfully so...as they are mourning the 18 lost crew or whatever the number was. The quarters are massive, maybe three times the size of my current room at my place back home, and luxurious as fuck. I do have to smirk inwardly though at the outdated late 80's early 90's set decor design, but it adds to the charm of the room. I thank the Ensign, forgot her name already, and look around the room a little bit. My head is still wheeling with why and the how I am in TNG in the first place? This should be impossible...and yet I'm fully awake, at least I think so, I have no plausible explanation for whatever this is....I don't think I'll ever get one. I have a thought.
"Q!!!!!!!!" I roar...but there's no answer. I don't expect one since he was just here and made his point.
"QQQQQQQQQQ!!!!!" I scream even louder but no answer and I give up. I go over to the couch and sit down. I'm in Star Trek The Next Generation. I guess there's only one thing or maybe TWO things I can do until Deanna gets here. I get up and head over to the replicator and crack my knuckles in anticipated glee. I've always wanted to use one of these, as most fans probably do.
"Computer....beef brisket ends, light Carolina BBQ sauce on toasted Texas Toast Bread." It makes it's beep, and does it's whirring sound effect and then just like magic....there it is.
"Computer, a tall cold glass of cola. Coke if you've got it in your banks, one small ice cube, partially chilled." It repeats the process and gives me a glass of coke. I take both and head back to the couch.
"Computer...please begin historical record read out of Earth starting from Earth Year 1992 through to current Stardate." It acknowledges it and I hear Majel read.
About a hour goes by, and I've had myself a nice five course meal---or just five meals---by the time I hear my door chime.
"Come." I say smiling like a nerd.
And she does enter, in all her glory. Lt-Commander Deanna Troi, Ship's Counsellor. Marina Sirtis--and I freeze in position, totally awestruck even at my age. How could I not? It's fucking Marina Sirtis. Deanna Troi---and then I remember...oh shit! Empathic, partially telepathic. She smiles and chuckles at this and I see her blushing a bit despite herself.
"You must be Adam." she says and my heart melts at the sound of my own name from her mouth.
"Uh--yes I am. Counsellor, it's an honor and I apologize for my thoughts." She smiles at that.
"It's okay Adam, this is a pretty unusual circumstance and they were mostly harmless...I'm flattered actually." Oh? I stumble over.
"Would you like to sit down?" I gesture to the couch. Keep it together you dolt!!
"I take it that a decision has been made about me?" She sits down and I prepare myself for whatever answer she gives.
"Yes. We discussed what you revealed to us...as well as the pitch you made us regarding giving your help, and we decided that you should remain on board with us---Commander Riker even suggested making you a special consultant. However the final decision is Starfleet's and the Captain is waiting to hear back from Admiral Shanthi, who is currently reading our report on you. It will be up to her what your fate is." I exhale
"You're nervous." she says obviously
"Yeah. I'd rather remain on the Enterprise, it's the most familiar place that I know in this reality, but I'm willing to do whatever Starfleet decides as well. Not that I have much choice."
"How are you feeling? This all must be very overwhelming for you." Ever the psychologist.
"I honestly don't know how I'm feeling right now. I'm mostly just confused. All of this should be impossible."
"I agree. But don't worry, we'll figure it out, and you'll be okay. " she says
"Thanks, Counsellor. I'm sorry, I didn't offer you anything when you came in, are you thirsty? Hungry?" She chuckles at the state of my table.
"No, but thank you. It seems you've taken advantage of our advanced technology though...and were having a history lesson?" My turn to flash that famous Young grin.
"Yes. I just had started the Archer years of Starfleet...and I might've gone a little overboard on the food...I have a question for you though Counsellor."
"Yes?"
"All of you seem so calm about my reveal...that you are in reality, fictional characters."
"Adam, we're Starfleet Officers. We've trained extensively for situations exactly like yours---seeking out new life, new civilizations, to boldly go where no one has gone before. If we reacted at all contrary to our training and conditioning--THAT would be a deterrent to the training. "
"I guess so."
"I'm sure there will be others who will have issues with this...but then that is where my staff and I come in isn't it?" she says with a smile and I nod.
"Picard to Troi."
"Troi here sir."
"Could you along with Mr. Young report to my ready room. Admiral Shanthi has come to a decision."
"Aye sir, we're on our way." Here we go.
I am escorted to guest quarters by one of Worf's security members. The Enterprise is still undergoing repairs from the Borg attack, a lot of nerves are still on edge, rightfully so...as they are mourning the 18 lost crew or whatever the number was. The quarters are massive, maybe three times the size of my current room at my place back home, and luxurious as fuck. I do have to smirk inwardly though at the outdated late 80's early 90's set decor design, but it adds to the charm of the room. I thank the Ensign, forgot her name already, and look around the room a little bit. My head is still wheeling with why and the how I am in TNG in the first place? This should be impossible...and yet I'm fully awake, at least I think so, I have no plausible explanation for whatever this is....I don't think I'll ever get one. I have a thought.
"Q!!!!!!!!" I roar...but there's no answer. I don't expect one since he was just here and made his point.
"QQQQQQQQQQ!!!!!" I scream even louder but no answer and I give up. I go over to the couch and sit down. I'm in Star Trek The Next Generation. I guess there's only one thing or maybe TWO things I can do until Deanna gets here. I get up and head over to the replicator and crack my knuckles in anticipated glee. I've always wanted to use one of these, as most fans probably do.
"Computer....beef brisket ends, light Carolina BBQ sauce on toasted Texas Toast Bread." It makes it's beep, and does it's whirring sound effect and then just like magic....there it is.
"Computer, a tall cold glass of cola. Coke if you've got it in your banks, one small ice cube, partially chilled." It repeats the process and gives me a glass of coke. I take both and head back to the couch.
"Computer...please begin historical record read out of Earth starting from Earth Year 1992 through to current Stardate." It acknowledges it and I hear Majel read.
About a hour goes by, and I've had myself a nice five course meal---or just five meals---by the time I hear my door chime.
"Come." I say smiling like a nerd.
And she does enter, in all her glory. Lt-Commander Deanna Troi, Ship's Counsellor. Marina Sirtis--and I freeze in position, totally awestruck even at my age. How could I not? It's fucking Marina Sirtis. Deanna Troi---and then I remember...oh shit! Empathic, partially telepathic. She smiles and chuckles at this and I see her blushing a bit despite herself.
"You must be Adam." she says and my heart melts at the sound of my own name from her mouth.
"Uh--yes I am. Counsellor, it's an honor and I apologize for my thoughts." She smiles at that.
"It's okay Adam, this is a pretty unusual circumstance and they were mostly harmless...I'm flattered actually." Oh? I stumble over.
"Would you like to sit down?" I gesture to the couch. Keep it together you dolt!!
"I take it that a decision has been made about me?" She sits down and I prepare myself for whatever answer she gives.
"Yes. We discussed what you revealed to us...as well as the pitch you made us regarding giving your help, and we decided that you should remain on board with us---Commander Riker even suggested making you a special consultant. However the final decision is Starfleet's and the Captain is waiting to hear back from Admiral Shanthi, who is currently reading our report on you. It will be up to her what your fate is." I exhale
"You're nervous." she says obviously
"Yeah. I'd rather remain on the Enterprise, it's the most familiar place that I know in this reality, but I'm willing to do whatever Starfleet decides as well. Not that I have much choice."
"How are you feeling? This all must be very overwhelming for you." Ever the psychologist.
"I honestly don't know how I'm feeling right now. I'm mostly just confused. All of this should be impossible."
"I agree. But don't worry, we'll figure it out, and you'll be okay. " she says
"Thanks, Counsellor. I'm sorry, I didn't offer you anything when you came in, are you thirsty? Hungry?" She chuckles at the state of my table.
"No, but thank you. It seems you've taken advantage of our advanced technology though...and were having a history lesson?" My turn to flash that famous Young grin.
"Yes. I just had started the Archer years of Starfleet...and I might've gone a little overboard on the food...I have a question for you though Counsellor."
"Yes?"
"All of you seem so calm about my reveal...that you are in reality, fictional characters."
"Adam, we're Starfleet Officers. We've trained extensively for situations exactly like yours---seeking out new life, new civilizations, to boldly go where no one has gone before. If we reacted at all contrary to our training and conditioning--THAT would be a deterrent to the training. "
"I guess so."
"I'm sure there will be others who will have issues with this...but then that is where my staff and I come in isn't it?" she says with a smile and I nod.
"Picard to Troi."
"Troi here sir."
"Could you along with Mr. Young report to my ready room. Admiral Shanthi has come to a decision."
"Aye sir, we're on our way." Here we go.
Chapter Three: Shanthi
DarkDestroyer
The Destroyer Of Worlds
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Paramount/SkyDance Own Star Trek. For Entertainment Purposes Only. Non-Profit.
Author's Note: A lot of these early chapters were short and sweet. Mostly for set up purposes. The first I'd say five or six chapters are set up before SI Adam returns to the Enterprise at the start of Season 3.
I am escorted to Captain Picard's ready room and enter hearing the famous woosh as the doors slide open. That sound effect will never not get old.
Captain Picard is sitting at his desk and turns his lap top monitor around to face me. On the screen is Admiral Shanthi, who is the Starfleet Commander-in-Chief of this era (having followed the retirement of Admiral Satie) a couple of years earlier.
"First of all Mr. Young, I would like to formally welcome you to the 24th Century. This must be a confusing, and overwhelming experience for you. We do not understand how it is possible that you have entered our reality. There are no records of anything like this occurring in our reality, as no doubt I'm sure from yours. Secondly as we speak, less than a dozen people are aware of your presence in our reality. This of course includes the Federation President, members of my cabinet, and a couple of Councilor's from the Council. We would like knowledge of your presence to be as limited as possible, however are aware the longer you are here, that remains difficult to contain.
I have considered what Captain Picard recommended...however we have an alternative proposal for you."
"You want me to come to Earth for study."
"Yes. We realize how that must sound to you, but I want to assure you that you will be treated as a honored guest. No harm will come to you. You will be given the finest VIP quarters we have to offer at HQ."
They are afraid of me. Or the very least, think I'm a security risk. I'm overweight and have a club foot...I'm no threat to anyone.
"I admit, the idea of being poked, prodded, and questioned for who knows how long isn't exactly thrilling to me...but I know most of you, I trust you. I understand that you want to try and figure out why I'm here, etc."
"That's right. After the testing is concluded, we can discuss your future."
I glance at Captain Picard but he gives me no reaction. My head is still whirling away with thousands of thoughts. Why am I here? How is this EVEN possible? I don't have any choice but to accept this...offer.
"All right, Admiral I am at your disposal."
"Excellent. The USS Hood will rendezvous with you in two days. I look forward to meeting you in person. Shanthi out."
The communication ends and I twist the monitor back around to Picard.
"Well that settles that then. I suppose I'd better prepare myself for Captain DeSoto's arrival. "
Picard stands up and nods, tugs his uniform bottom. HE DID THE THING!
"They are afraid of me." I say to him
"They don't know you...this is a very unusual circumstance. They want to make sure that--"
"I'm not a threat. Believe me, sir, I understand that. It's amusing to me, but I understand."
"What will you do?" Picard asks
"The only thing I can do...follow orders." I smile and he nods
"Very good Mr. Young, you're dismissed."
I nod and get up to leave. I have no clue why I am here at all. This should be impossible.
Author's Note: A lot of these early chapters were short and sweet. Mostly for set up purposes. The first I'd say five or six chapters are set up before SI Adam returns to the Enterprise at the start of Season 3.
I am escorted to Captain Picard's ready room and enter hearing the famous woosh as the doors slide open. That sound effect will never not get old.
Captain Picard is sitting at his desk and turns his lap top monitor around to face me. On the screen is Admiral Shanthi, who is the Starfleet Commander-in-Chief of this era (having followed the retirement of Admiral Satie) a couple of years earlier.
"First of all Mr. Young, I would like to formally welcome you to the 24th Century. This must be a confusing, and overwhelming experience for you. We do not understand how it is possible that you have entered our reality. There are no records of anything like this occurring in our reality, as no doubt I'm sure from yours. Secondly as we speak, less than a dozen people are aware of your presence in our reality. This of course includes the Federation President, members of my cabinet, and a couple of Councilor's from the Council. We would like knowledge of your presence to be as limited as possible, however are aware the longer you are here, that remains difficult to contain.
I have considered what Captain Picard recommended...however we have an alternative proposal for you."
"You want me to come to Earth for study."
"Yes. We realize how that must sound to you, but I want to assure you that you will be treated as a honored guest. No harm will come to you. You will be given the finest VIP quarters we have to offer at HQ."
They are afraid of me. Or the very least, think I'm a security risk. I'm overweight and have a club foot...I'm no threat to anyone.
"I admit, the idea of being poked, prodded, and questioned for who knows how long isn't exactly thrilling to me...but I know most of you, I trust you. I understand that you want to try and figure out why I'm here, etc."
"That's right. After the testing is concluded, we can discuss your future."
I glance at Captain Picard but he gives me no reaction. My head is still whirling away with thousands of thoughts. Why am I here? How is this EVEN possible? I don't have any choice but to accept this...offer.
"All right, Admiral I am at your disposal."
"Excellent. The USS Hood will rendezvous with you in two days. I look forward to meeting you in person. Shanthi out."
The communication ends and I twist the monitor back around to Picard.
"Well that settles that then. I suppose I'd better prepare myself for Captain DeSoto's arrival. "
Picard stands up and nods, tugs his uniform bottom. HE DID THE THING!
"They are afraid of me." I say to him
"They don't know you...this is a very unusual circumstance. They want to make sure that--"
"I'm not a threat. Believe me, sir, I understand that. It's amusing to me, but I understand."
"What will you do?" Picard asks
"The only thing I can do...follow orders." I smile and he nods
"Very good Mr. Young, you're dismissed."
I nod and get up to leave. I have no clue why I am here at all. This should be impossible.
Chapter Four: USS Hood
DarkDestroyer
The Destroyer Of Worlds
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Thanks everyone who has read so far. Any comments, critiques, or questions would be appreciated, but I'm glad folks are enjoying things so far.
It quickly dawns on me that I am aboard an Excelsior-Class starship...being aboard the Enterprise was frankly a bit overwhelming, but never in a million years would I have expected the second starship I would step foot on to be an Excelsior-Class. She maybe old, but she's a beaut. After I beam aboard from the Enterprise, I'm escorted to guest quarters by two security officers. I would have thought given how "top secret" I am that I would have just beamed into the quarters...but they brought me to Transporter Room 3 and allowed me to say goodbye to Counsellor Troi and Captain Picard. Chief O'Brien was at his post. I hope one day that I can return to the ship...but for now, I'm onto the first phase of this weird journey. I still can't believe that I am in the Star Trek universe. How is this possible? I've been racking my brain trying to figure out why I am here, and what MIGHT be going on back home? Are my family and friends freaking out? Am I being treated as a missing persons thing? Is my...timeline...suspended? I don't have the answers...somehow I have been plucked from my reality to this one and it's...REAL? I'm really here. This isn't a story or a dream or anything like that...just thinking about this too much becomes overwhelming.
To my surprise, I get an invitation to dinner from Captain DeSoto...and I graciously accept it. At 19:30 hours I report...having replicated something nice to wear, I feel silly wearing a tux even if the Captain wears his dress uniform. Around 19:10 hours I am picked up by security and escorted to the captain's mess, which was a small little dining area adjacent to the main officer's galley. Waiting for me, wearing a his dress uniform---the second season command uniform with the piping around the shoulders---is Captain Robert DeSoto.
"Mr. Young, welcome aboard the Hood. I'm Captain DeSoto...but then of course, you knew that."
I shake his out stretched hand and it's firm shake. He motions to sit down.
"Aye sir...it's an honor to meet you. Captain Picard sends his regards."
"Yes. I managed a word or two with Jean-Luc while waiting for your transport. So...a reality hopper? I'm not sure
what to call you."
"Most folks call me Adam, sir."
DeSoto chuckles at that as he pulls apart a roll.
"You have a sense of humor, good. That will serve you well, while you continue to adjust to our time. To my knowledge we've never had a recorded incident like you before, they're going to be chomping at the bit at headquarters."
I take a sip of water from the goblet.
"I take it they are already anticipating my arrival...I confess that I'm not thrilled at the aspect of being poked and prodded---and asked a bazillion questions repeatedly despite me giving the best answers that I can."
DeSoto laughs outright this time.
"It sounds like you have had some experience with this?"
"During my club foot surgeries yeah...having to deal with multiple medical students. The attention is fun at first, but it gets tiring REAL fast."
"On the plus side, you'll probably get the finest quarters, and be able to see some of future Earth...that has to count for something."
"I guess. I just...I don't know what I'm doing here if NOT to use my knowledge...I get they want to make sure I'm not dangerous or anything...but I feel useless sitting around Earth for who knows how long."
"I'm still processing the fact that I am a fictional character...to be honest, and trying to figure out how your...knowledge works."
"It's quite simple really. I know things due to them happening on the show---but I am ONLY restricted to things that were said or shown to the audience. I am not god. Far from it."
"So you know me from when...exactly?"
"About a year from now...and no I'm not going to divulge the reason why."
"Probably transporting something..."
"You don't sound like you like your current assignment?"
"Not so much that I dislike it...just occasionally I'd like to have something happen. It's been a while since we've last saw some action...even with Will Riker leaving, I have a great crew, but you get kind of stagnant...content with things...and that's not always a good thing."
"Well...I don't think you'll have to worry about that for very long sir."
"That sounds ominous."
"It is...things are coming. The Borg is just the beginning and I feel like the Fleet is not ready to meet the challenges that are yet to come."
"Maybe, that's why you're here...to help guide us through them."
"I don't know...I feel insignificant, even with this vast knowledge...but maybe you're right. Maybe I'm here to help change things..."
"But not too much I hope." he jokes
I smile. I can see why Jean-Luc Picard likes him so much. I am finding him charming. We are served a Lemon and Chicken soup which has little croutons in it...and it's not replicated. The Hood still carries a full kitchen staff like prior to replicators. This was a special occasion. I'm flattered. We're then brought a seared salmon dish and it is amazing. For desert, a Chocolate Mouse served in a goblet that is perfection. Deanna would be in heaven. Afterwards the two of us talk some more. Afterwards he thanks me for my company and let's me know if I need anything at all, don't hesitate to ask.
I spend the rest of the time to Earth in my quarters resting and reading. Then I hear the comm beep.
"Young here."
"We have arrived at Earth, Mr. Young. You are to report to the main transporter room."
"Understood." I believe that was the Hood's first officer. Not sure what her name was, might've been in one of the DC Comics run.
Along with my Starfleet issue duffle bag...which I really don't need but has my original clothes that I arrived inside of it...I head to the transporter room as Captain DeSoto is there to see me off. He shakes my hand.
"Good luck Mr. Young. Remember what I said, if you need anything, don't hesitate to call. I'm always around."
I smile
"Thank you sir. I'll remember that."
"Energize." he orders and I shimmer from the transporter room and reappear in the open misty air of San Francisco, California in the fall time. I am on Earth...outside Starfleet Headquarters. I'm greeted by a couple of commanders and ops officers and I shake their hands as they bid me to enter HQ. Here we go. I don't know what to expect over the next few weeks...but I'm not expecting anything good as I marvel at the Future.
It quickly dawns on me that I am aboard an Excelsior-Class starship...being aboard the Enterprise was frankly a bit overwhelming, but never in a million years would I have expected the second starship I would step foot on to be an Excelsior-Class. She maybe old, but she's a beaut. After I beam aboard from the Enterprise, I'm escorted to guest quarters by two security officers. I would have thought given how "top secret" I am that I would have just beamed into the quarters...but they brought me to Transporter Room 3 and allowed me to say goodbye to Counsellor Troi and Captain Picard. Chief O'Brien was at his post. I hope one day that I can return to the ship...but for now, I'm onto the first phase of this weird journey. I still can't believe that I am in the Star Trek universe. How is this possible? I've been racking my brain trying to figure out why I am here, and what MIGHT be going on back home? Are my family and friends freaking out? Am I being treated as a missing persons thing? Is my...timeline...suspended? I don't have the answers...somehow I have been plucked from my reality to this one and it's...REAL? I'm really here. This isn't a story or a dream or anything like that...just thinking about this too much becomes overwhelming.
To my surprise, I get an invitation to dinner from Captain DeSoto...and I graciously accept it. At 19:30 hours I report...having replicated something nice to wear, I feel silly wearing a tux even if the Captain wears his dress uniform. Around 19:10 hours I am picked up by security and escorted to the captain's mess, which was a small little dining area adjacent to the main officer's galley. Waiting for me, wearing a his dress uniform---the second season command uniform with the piping around the shoulders---is Captain Robert DeSoto.
"Mr. Young, welcome aboard the Hood. I'm Captain DeSoto...but then of course, you knew that."
I shake his out stretched hand and it's firm shake. He motions to sit down.
"Aye sir...it's an honor to meet you. Captain Picard sends his regards."
"Yes. I managed a word or two with Jean-Luc while waiting for your transport. So...a reality hopper? I'm not sure
what to call you."
"Most folks call me Adam, sir."
DeSoto chuckles at that as he pulls apart a roll.
"You have a sense of humor, good. That will serve you well, while you continue to adjust to our time. To my knowledge we've never had a recorded incident like you before, they're going to be chomping at the bit at headquarters."
I take a sip of water from the goblet.
"I take it they are already anticipating my arrival...I confess that I'm not thrilled at the aspect of being poked and prodded---and asked a bazillion questions repeatedly despite me giving the best answers that I can."
DeSoto laughs outright this time.
"It sounds like you have had some experience with this?"
"During my club foot surgeries yeah...having to deal with multiple medical students. The attention is fun at first, but it gets tiring REAL fast."
"On the plus side, you'll probably get the finest quarters, and be able to see some of future Earth...that has to count for something."
"I guess. I just...I don't know what I'm doing here if NOT to use my knowledge...I get they want to make sure I'm not dangerous or anything...but I feel useless sitting around Earth for who knows how long."
"I'm still processing the fact that I am a fictional character...to be honest, and trying to figure out how your...knowledge works."
"It's quite simple really. I know things due to them happening on the show---but I am ONLY restricted to things that were said or shown to the audience. I am not god. Far from it."
"So you know me from when...exactly?"
"About a year from now...and no I'm not going to divulge the reason why."
"Probably transporting something..."
"You don't sound like you like your current assignment?"
"Not so much that I dislike it...just occasionally I'd like to have something happen. It's been a while since we've last saw some action...even with Will Riker leaving, I have a great crew, but you get kind of stagnant...content with things...and that's not always a good thing."
"Well...I don't think you'll have to worry about that for very long sir."
"That sounds ominous."
"It is...things are coming. The Borg is just the beginning and I feel like the Fleet is not ready to meet the challenges that are yet to come."
"Maybe, that's why you're here...to help guide us through them."
"I don't know...I feel insignificant, even with this vast knowledge...but maybe you're right. Maybe I'm here to help change things..."
"But not too much I hope." he jokes
I smile. I can see why Jean-Luc Picard likes him so much. I am finding him charming. We are served a Lemon and Chicken soup which has little croutons in it...and it's not replicated. The Hood still carries a full kitchen staff like prior to replicators. This was a special occasion. I'm flattered. We're then brought a seared salmon dish and it is amazing. For desert, a Chocolate Mouse served in a goblet that is perfection. Deanna would be in heaven. Afterwards the two of us talk some more. Afterwards he thanks me for my company and let's me know if I need anything at all, don't hesitate to ask.
I spend the rest of the time to Earth in my quarters resting and reading. Then I hear the comm beep.
"Young here."
"We have arrived at Earth, Mr. Young. You are to report to the main transporter room."
"Understood." I believe that was the Hood's first officer. Not sure what her name was, might've been in one of the DC Comics run.
Along with my Starfleet issue duffle bag...which I really don't need but has my original clothes that I arrived inside of it...I head to the transporter room as Captain DeSoto is there to see me off. He shakes my hand.
"Good luck Mr. Young. Remember what I said, if you need anything, don't hesitate to call. I'm always around."
I smile
"Thank you sir. I'll remember that."
"Energize." he orders and I shimmer from the transporter room and reappear in the open misty air of San Francisco, California in the fall time. I am on Earth...outside Starfleet Headquarters. I'm greeted by a couple of commanders and ops officers and I shake their hands as they bid me to enter HQ. Here we go. I don't know what to expect over the next few weeks...but I'm not expecting anything good as I marvel at the Future.
Chapter Five: Blackwell
DarkDestroyer
The Destroyer Of Worlds
- Joined
- Nov 22, 2025
- Messages
- 124
- Likes received
- 993
Paramount-Skydance Own Star Trek. For Entertainment Purposes Only. Non-Profit.
The next several weeks are a whirl wind of activity both physical and mental. I am poked, prodded, and damn near interrogated by over a dozen scientists and Starfleet officers who come in a rotating basis it seems. I have very little down time to myself. The doctors also have put me on a physical regime---which I am thankful for. It's time to lose this gut that I've had. Most of my medical ailments from the 21st century of my reality have been cured and dealt with. My club foot remains of course but I take a hypo of painkillers if it flares up. I've started swimming in the HQ swimming pool which is Olympic size. Also started to box which I've always wanted to do in the holodeck, my contact with people is extremely restricted still. I've security escorts everywhere I go...and it is amusing to me. What's a fat slop with a club foot going to really do here? I'm so out of shape that I'd be tackled by security after trying to barely run half a block! I understand their concerns, but this is ridiculous. I'm already getting stir crazy and need something to do other than reading historical books and technical manuals.
My wish is granted in November as I am contacted by Admiral Margaret Blackwell, who is at this time, head of Starfleet Intelligence.
"Greetings Mr. Young. I hope I'm not disturbing you?"
"Not at all Admiral, this is a surprise. What can I do for you?"
"I have been discussing your situation with Admiral Shanthi, and she and I agreed that since you've have cleared all your security checks thus far, we might put you to work for us. If you're willing of course."
"What'd you have in mind Admiral?"
"We're of course aware of your...knowledge...and Admiral Shanthi has given us permission to request a threat assessment report from you."
I sit down on the couch and place the towel I had around my neck, beside me.
"Okayyy....what exactly did you have in mind?"
"We know that you possess future knowledge, we're not asking you to violate the Temporal Prime Directive, however we are asking you to assess any direct threats to the Federation--and give your input on them. Anything from the future you DO decide to include will be classified above top secret and kept in confidence between myself and Admrial Shanthi."
I lean back...
"That's a hard ask Admiral."
"I know it is...but from reading your psyche profile, we know that you want to help us. This would be providing us with tremendous assistance."
"Admiral, you realize that I'm neither an analyst or military tactician of any kind right? I'd literally just be giving you my thoughts on various galactic powers?"
"That's precisely what we want from you."
"Okay. You'll have it in a week."
"One more thing Mr. Young, and this one is perhaps the most critical... we have a request of you."
Uh-oh.
"Yes sir?"
"We know you are aware of the Borg that we just were introduced to...we would like in addition to the threat assessment report, a detailed account of the Borg Collective. Anything you add in there will be strictly confidential at the highest levels. You can take as long as you want to to write it, but it needs to be as extensive as it possibly can be without violating any directives."
Damn.
"Understood Admiral. I'll see what I can come up with for you."
"Thank You Mr. Young."
The screen goes blank. I guess I'd better start writing then. Holy shit.
The next several weeks are a whirl wind of activity both physical and mental. I am poked, prodded, and damn near interrogated by over a dozen scientists and Starfleet officers who come in a rotating basis it seems. I have very little down time to myself. The doctors also have put me on a physical regime---which I am thankful for. It's time to lose this gut that I've had. Most of my medical ailments from the 21st century of my reality have been cured and dealt with. My club foot remains of course but I take a hypo of painkillers if it flares up. I've started swimming in the HQ swimming pool which is Olympic size. Also started to box which I've always wanted to do in the holodeck, my contact with people is extremely restricted still. I've security escorts everywhere I go...and it is amusing to me. What's a fat slop with a club foot going to really do here? I'm so out of shape that I'd be tackled by security after trying to barely run half a block! I understand their concerns, but this is ridiculous. I'm already getting stir crazy and need something to do other than reading historical books and technical manuals.
My wish is granted in November as I am contacted by Admiral Margaret Blackwell, who is at this time, head of Starfleet Intelligence.
"Greetings Mr. Young. I hope I'm not disturbing you?"
"Not at all Admiral, this is a surprise. What can I do for you?"
"I have been discussing your situation with Admiral Shanthi, and she and I agreed that since you've have cleared all your security checks thus far, we might put you to work for us. If you're willing of course."
"What'd you have in mind Admiral?"
"We're of course aware of your...knowledge...and Admiral Shanthi has given us permission to request a threat assessment report from you."
I sit down on the couch and place the towel I had around my neck, beside me.
"Okayyy....what exactly did you have in mind?"
"We know that you possess future knowledge, we're not asking you to violate the Temporal Prime Directive, however we are asking you to assess any direct threats to the Federation--and give your input on them. Anything from the future you DO decide to include will be classified above top secret and kept in confidence between myself and Admrial Shanthi."
I lean back...
"That's a hard ask Admiral."
"I know it is...but from reading your psyche profile, we know that you want to help us. This would be providing us with tremendous assistance."
"Admiral, you realize that I'm neither an analyst or military tactician of any kind right? I'd literally just be giving you my thoughts on various galactic powers?"
"That's precisely what we want from you."
"Okay. You'll have it in a week."
"One more thing Mr. Young, and this one is perhaps the most critical... we have a request of you."
Uh-oh.
"Yes sir?"
"We know you are aware of the Borg that we just were introduced to...we would like in addition to the threat assessment report, a detailed account of the Borg Collective. Anything you add in there will be strictly confidential at the highest levels. You can take as long as you want to to write it, but it needs to be as extensive as it possibly can be without violating any directives."
Damn.
"Understood Admiral. I'll see what I can come up with for you."
"Thank You Mr. Young."
The screen goes blank. I guess I'd better start writing then. Holy shit.
Chapter Six: Threat Assessment Report
DarkDestroyer
The Destroyer Of Worlds
- Joined
- Nov 22, 2025
- Messages
- 124
- Likes received
- 993
Paramount-SkyDance Own Star Trek. For Entertainment Purposes. Non-Profit.
Author's Note: There COULD be in the coming weeks a more comprehensive version of this...but for now this is the original that I wrote.
Threat Assessment Report for Stardate 42856.0 (November 9th 2365)
This threat assessment is designed to be used as a TOOL for Starfleet Command to determine future socio-political relations with these various threats. I am writing this as a kind of guideline or playbook for how to approach these potential threats as well. I am not a tactical person, I am writing these based on my knowledge of these factions from the as requested by the head of Starfleet Intelligence. This is also not a FULL galactic database or anything like that. Anything not mentioned in this report can be requested afterwards if required.
Borg: See separately compiled report. For eyes only of the Commander-In-Chief. (Classified)
Breen: Notoriously protective of their own space, the Breen have launched active raids against powers who have willingly or unwillingly violated their space. Primarily known as space pirates---they will in the near future become more involved in galactic politics as other powers seek their aide as shock troopers. They will be provoked into this action, it is recommended that SI keep a watchful eye or two on them.
Cardassian Union: The Cardassians despite overtures of peace, and a public front of humbleness...are not to be trusted. At all. Under any circumstances. They are liars. The Cardassian's expansionist program in the 24th century is primarily resourced based, but at the expense of the billions of people they've displaced or outright murdered. I won't mix words about what my personal opinion is about the Cardassians, and this doesn't include the ordinary citizens...but is directed at their government and military branches. As Starfleet is aware of, the civilian government, the so called Depta Council has very little power. the Cardassian military dictates policy for the Union---and even they are strong armed by the Obsidian Order who are the TRUE power. The last few years the Cardassian economy has begun to suffer greatly as their war efforts have drained their treasury, and devalued the Lek...the lack of planets and species to conquer has cost them greatly now. We will likely see economic downturn and even recession happen in the next 10 to 15 years if nothing changes. Their occupation of Bajor is largely responsible for this.
I understand that the Prime Directive prevents direct Federation involvement in other worlds affairs, however it is my recommendation that we get involved in the Bajor situation quickly as possible in order to help liberate these poor people---even if it is in a clandestine way. What they suffered at the hands of the Cardassiasns, while the rest of the galaxy has stood by and watched is atrocious. Conflict with the Union despite current diplomatic relations---still projects to war.
Dominion: Our first real spoiler. I'm just going to get into this. There is a stable wormhole located near Bajor that no one has discovered yet. It will be discovered by Starfleet in the year 2369 and this discovery will change everything for the Bajorans as they enter the galactic stage for the first time. This is why I stated above that I believe we should make liberation a priority, instead of sitting back and allowing the situation to resolve itself. It is absolutely paramount that Starfleet discover the wormhole as opposed to the Cardassians. The wormhole leads to the Gamma Quadrant, which is controlled by the Founders and their Dominion. The Founders are a race of xenophobic Changelings who have rallied against any "solids" and created an empire they reinforce with their genetically engineered soldiers called Jem'Hadar, and their handlers, the Vorta.
Aside from the Borg, the Dominion will be the Federation's most dire threat. They will threaten the entirety of the Alpha and Beta Quadrants. Diplomacy is irrelevant and will falter. They're only interested in conquering our way of life and safety. It is absolutely imperative that we be ready for them. Thus my strongest recommendation. The Fleet needs to be bolstered more than ever before, starship construction increased ten fold from what it is currently. I think I read somewhere right now that Starfleet has less than 500 ships in active service. What? Painfully unprepared for the future. Q in a way was correct recently, he just went about showing his point in his own obnoxious way. We can increase Fleet production without sacrificing our scientific and exploration mandates.
Ferengi Alliance: Current antagonistic relations will cool with the Alliance over the next few years as continued diplomatic and trade missions happen. The Ferengi will come to realize that there is profit to be made with a benign relationship with the Federation, and their previous actions will cease. The recent synthehol exchange will be a huge stepping stone to furthering relations with the Ferengi, as will the rumored upcoming huge Slug-o-Cola deal announcement. There ARE rogue elements within the Alliance, but they are mostly just interested in acquiring wealth as well ,and not considered a galactic threat at all.
Gorn: The Gorn are still aggressively natured towards the Federation and their space should be avoided at all costs, however as long as this is upheld, no further transgressions with them should occur. The settlement at Cestus III will in fact thrive over the next few decades.
Klingon Empire: The Klingon Empire have been our allies since the Khitomer Accords were ratified by both powers in late 2293. However do not think things can't change depending on the ever changing scope of galactic politics...not to mention their own internal political situation. Chancellor K'empec is in the process of dying. This will come to light in the next year--it is being kept private for obvious reasons. The balance of power within the Empire is also changing as various noble houses are vying to succeed him and claim the Throne for themselves. A civil war is pending. We can not interfere or intervene but what if external forces are responsible for disrupting their political situation in an attempt to wedge the Federation and the Empire apart from each other? This is a situation that will need to be addressed promptly. I recommend low key surveillance until that happens.
The Maquis: So-called Freedom fighter group consisting of like minded individuals that stem out of the situation with the Cardassians. This group can be avoided, depending on how the Federation Council decides to proceed with the Cardassian Union.
Orion Syndicate: The Syndicate are criminals that need to be policed and kept in check. Attempted power coups---assassination attempts, sentient species trafficking, all need to be monitored by Starfleet Intelligence and Security and dealt with. They may prove to be an issue if external forces attempt to seek their aide in sheltering or providing illegal weapons to them. However they remain an oddity rather than a galactic problem. Shady.
Romulan Star Empire: They're back, and in a major way despite not having any activity since their reappearance in December of 2364. The Romulans WILL be active in the near future. Their intentions as always...are the same with us. It is a frustrating thing to watch as an outsider---because they COULD become a great ally, as the Klingons have been, if they could only get over their own mistrust of us. However that is not their only problem. The Romulans are a great conundrum. Isolationist, yet expansionist depending on the regime. Their power politics will be their own undoing, no one else will need to lift a finger. They will implode upon themselves if they continue their violent transgressions. The Romluans have too many internal elements that are vying for supreme power. The Praetorship. The Military. The Tal Shiar...it is a dangerous balancing act, all three of them play...and to the detriment of their people.
IF they are not currently, they will be in the near future involved in several plots to destabilize relations with the Klingon Empire, and generally disrupt the Federation. Starfleet is able to repel their various schemes.
Tholian Assembly: Content to sit and watch as events transpire, they're not an immediate concern. It is even possible to establish diplomatic relations with them...understanding their fears and concerns is key. Communication ESPECIALLY with the Assembly is key as body language is a prominent factor in how they communicate with others.
Tzenkethi Coalition: Relations with the Coalition have cooled recently, I do not expect any flare ups to occur. However the Dominion will make an attempt in the year 2374 to insight an incident between us. I recommend frequent diplomatic overtures with them.
Section 31: This is like the Dominion, another sensitive subject as I do not know within Starfleet Command's upper hierarchy who actually is aware of them or not so I proceed with assuming they are not known. Section 31 is a secretive organization that has been operating on it's own since the formation of the Federation. They use Starfleet's charter as a means to operate. They claim to have the Federation's best interests at heart, and repel any and all threats to it---by any means necessary. It is my intention to form a counter network with the goal to bringing them down once and for all.
Son'a: I recommend to avoid contact with this group. Narcisscistic and militaristic tendencies drive these people. Interested in obtaining precious metals and wealth, they are what perhaps the Ferengi if the Alliance chose to become warlike instead of simply making profit. Their genetic engineering process over the centuries has caused recent degeneration, they are unable to maintain their form without the use of "metaphasic radiation" gained from the rings of the Bak'u homeworld.
Warhawk Faction: Operating in shadow for several decades, some conspiracy theorists speculate that they are actually part of Section 31 or rogue elements of Starfleet Security or Intelligence. They are not. They are simply a likeminded group of high ranking officers who believe that the Federation should be involved in endless war fare. Every generation or so they emerge to the surface and make noise---Admiral Cartright was part of a group who was involved in attempting to undermine the talks with the Klingons to incite war. I do not have any knowledge of current people within this faction. IT is my hope, like with Section 31, to put together a network to eventually take them down for good.
This concludes my threat assessment report.
Author's Note: There COULD be in the coming weeks a more comprehensive version of this...but for now this is the original that I wrote.
Threat Assessment Report for Stardate 42856.0 (November 9th 2365)
This threat assessment is designed to be used as a TOOL for Starfleet Command to determine future socio-political relations with these various threats. I am writing this as a kind of guideline or playbook for how to approach these potential threats as well. I am not a tactical person, I am writing these based on my knowledge of these factions from the as requested by the head of Starfleet Intelligence. This is also not a FULL galactic database or anything like that. Anything not mentioned in this report can be requested afterwards if required.
Borg: See separately compiled report. For eyes only of the Commander-In-Chief. (Classified)
Breen: Notoriously protective of their own space, the Breen have launched active raids against powers who have willingly or unwillingly violated their space. Primarily known as space pirates---they will in the near future become more involved in galactic politics as other powers seek their aide as shock troopers. They will be provoked into this action, it is recommended that SI keep a watchful eye or two on them.
Cardassian Union: The Cardassians despite overtures of peace, and a public front of humbleness...are not to be trusted. At all. Under any circumstances. They are liars. The Cardassian's expansionist program in the 24th century is primarily resourced based, but at the expense of the billions of people they've displaced or outright murdered. I won't mix words about what my personal opinion is about the Cardassians, and this doesn't include the ordinary citizens...but is directed at their government and military branches. As Starfleet is aware of, the civilian government, the so called Depta Council has very little power. the Cardassian military dictates policy for the Union---and even they are strong armed by the Obsidian Order who are the TRUE power. The last few years the Cardassian economy has begun to suffer greatly as their war efforts have drained their treasury, and devalued the Lek...the lack of planets and species to conquer has cost them greatly now. We will likely see economic downturn and even recession happen in the next 10 to 15 years if nothing changes. Their occupation of Bajor is largely responsible for this.
I understand that the Prime Directive prevents direct Federation involvement in other worlds affairs, however it is my recommendation that we get involved in the Bajor situation quickly as possible in order to help liberate these poor people---even if it is in a clandestine way. What they suffered at the hands of the Cardassiasns, while the rest of the galaxy has stood by and watched is atrocious. Conflict with the Union despite current diplomatic relations---still projects to war.
Dominion: Our first real spoiler. I'm just going to get into this. There is a stable wormhole located near Bajor that no one has discovered yet. It will be discovered by Starfleet in the year 2369 and this discovery will change everything for the Bajorans as they enter the galactic stage for the first time. This is why I stated above that I believe we should make liberation a priority, instead of sitting back and allowing the situation to resolve itself. It is absolutely paramount that Starfleet discover the wormhole as opposed to the Cardassians. The wormhole leads to the Gamma Quadrant, which is controlled by the Founders and their Dominion. The Founders are a race of xenophobic Changelings who have rallied against any "solids" and created an empire they reinforce with their genetically engineered soldiers called Jem'Hadar, and their handlers, the Vorta.
Aside from the Borg, the Dominion will be the Federation's most dire threat. They will threaten the entirety of the Alpha and Beta Quadrants. Diplomacy is irrelevant and will falter. They're only interested in conquering our way of life and safety. It is absolutely imperative that we be ready for them. Thus my strongest recommendation. The Fleet needs to be bolstered more than ever before, starship construction increased ten fold from what it is currently. I think I read somewhere right now that Starfleet has less than 500 ships in active service. What? Painfully unprepared for the future. Q in a way was correct recently, he just went about showing his point in his own obnoxious way. We can increase Fleet production without sacrificing our scientific and exploration mandates.
Ferengi Alliance: Current antagonistic relations will cool with the Alliance over the next few years as continued diplomatic and trade missions happen. The Ferengi will come to realize that there is profit to be made with a benign relationship with the Federation, and their previous actions will cease. The recent synthehol exchange will be a huge stepping stone to furthering relations with the Ferengi, as will the rumored upcoming huge Slug-o-Cola deal announcement. There ARE rogue elements within the Alliance, but they are mostly just interested in acquiring wealth as well ,and not considered a galactic threat at all.
Gorn: The Gorn are still aggressively natured towards the Federation and their space should be avoided at all costs, however as long as this is upheld, no further transgressions with them should occur. The settlement at Cestus III will in fact thrive over the next few decades.
Klingon Empire: The Klingon Empire have been our allies since the Khitomer Accords were ratified by both powers in late 2293. However do not think things can't change depending on the ever changing scope of galactic politics...not to mention their own internal political situation. Chancellor K'empec is in the process of dying. This will come to light in the next year--it is being kept private for obvious reasons. The balance of power within the Empire is also changing as various noble houses are vying to succeed him and claim the Throne for themselves. A civil war is pending. We can not interfere or intervene but what if external forces are responsible for disrupting their political situation in an attempt to wedge the Federation and the Empire apart from each other? This is a situation that will need to be addressed promptly. I recommend low key surveillance until that happens.
The Maquis: So-called Freedom fighter group consisting of like minded individuals that stem out of the situation with the Cardassians. This group can be avoided, depending on how the Federation Council decides to proceed with the Cardassian Union.
Orion Syndicate: The Syndicate are criminals that need to be policed and kept in check. Attempted power coups---assassination attempts, sentient species trafficking, all need to be monitored by Starfleet Intelligence and Security and dealt with. They may prove to be an issue if external forces attempt to seek their aide in sheltering or providing illegal weapons to them. However they remain an oddity rather than a galactic problem. Shady.
Romulan Star Empire: They're back, and in a major way despite not having any activity since their reappearance in December of 2364. The Romulans WILL be active in the near future. Their intentions as always...are the same with us. It is a frustrating thing to watch as an outsider---because they COULD become a great ally, as the Klingons have been, if they could only get over their own mistrust of us. However that is not their only problem. The Romulans are a great conundrum. Isolationist, yet expansionist depending on the regime. Their power politics will be their own undoing, no one else will need to lift a finger. They will implode upon themselves if they continue their violent transgressions. The Romluans have too many internal elements that are vying for supreme power. The Praetorship. The Military. The Tal Shiar...it is a dangerous balancing act, all three of them play...and to the detriment of their people.
IF they are not currently, they will be in the near future involved in several plots to destabilize relations with the Klingon Empire, and generally disrupt the Federation. Starfleet is able to repel their various schemes.
Tholian Assembly: Content to sit and watch as events transpire, they're not an immediate concern. It is even possible to establish diplomatic relations with them...understanding their fears and concerns is key. Communication ESPECIALLY with the Assembly is key as body language is a prominent factor in how they communicate with others.
Tzenkethi Coalition: Relations with the Coalition have cooled recently, I do not expect any flare ups to occur. However the Dominion will make an attempt in the year 2374 to insight an incident between us. I recommend frequent diplomatic overtures with them.
Section 31: This is like the Dominion, another sensitive subject as I do not know within Starfleet Command's upper hierarchy who actually is aware of them or not so I proceed with assuming they are not known. Section 31 is a secretive organization that has been operating on it's own since the formation of the Federation. They use Starfleet's charter as a means to operate. They claim to have the Federation's best interests at heart, and repel any and all threats to it---by any means necessary. It is my intention to form a counter network with the goal to bringing them down once and for all.
Son'a: I recommend to avoid contact with this group. Narcisscistic and militaristic tendencies drive these people. Interested in obtaining precious metals and wealth, they are what perhaps the Ferengi if the Alliance chose to become warlike instead of simply making profit. Their genetic engineering process over the centuries has caused recent degeneration, they are unable to maintain their form without the use of "metaphasic radiation" gained from the rings of the Bak'u homeworld.
Warhawk Faction: Operating in shadow for several decades, some conspiracy theorists speculate that they are actually part of Section 31 or rogue elements of Starfleet Security or Intelligence. They are not. They are simply a likeminded group of high ranking officers who believe that the Federation should be involved in endless war fare. Every generation or so they emerge to the surface and make noise---Admiral Cartright was part of a group who was involved in attempting to undermine the talks with the Klingons to incite war. I do not have any knowledge of current people within this faction. IT is my hope, like with Section 31, to put together a network to eventually take them down for good.
This concludes my threat assessment report.
Chapter Seven: Admiral Hanson
DarkDestroyer
The Destroyer Of Worlds
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I report about a half hour early to Admiral Hanson's office and with 15 minutes left to wait---the secretary tells me that I can go in. I am wearing replicated casual early 21st century attire...in this case blue shorts, and a designer tee. Even fall in San Francisco---the weather is warm thanks to the control systems implemented. I enter the office and Admiral Hanson looks up from his monitor.
"Ah...Mr. Young. Welcome. Sit down please. Your promptness is noted and appreciated."
"Aye sir."
He presses a button and behind him I see the large screen display a Borg drone twirling around along with schematics and indicator lines stemming from it. He taps off his monitor and shuts the top .
"I had a chance to read your psyche report the other day. You've been through a great deal in a short period of time. How are you handling all of this?"
"I'm still in awe that I'm even here. It is like a literal dream, but I've been assured many times now that this is actually reality and happening. I'm adjusting as best I can."
"I'd imagine that suddenly being in one of your favourite shows, and interacting with some of your heroes...has been overwhelming?"
I chuckle.
"That's what Counsellor Xing said in our first session. Yes...it's been absolutely strange and overwhelming. I don't know why or how that I'm here...no one does yet. I've already talked to some of the best minds in the Federation---and they're baffled that I am here. I guess I just power through things like I always do."
"Yes. It has impressed all the shrinks, and quite frankly Admiral Shanthi and Admiral Blackwell. Which is why you're in MY office this morning."
"Yes sir, you are wanting me to join the task force to come up with a solution to stop the Borg."
"That's correct. Your profile states that you excel---like most sentient life---when presented with a challenge to over come. Or to have some kind of task to focus on. You stagnant when you are left to your own device..."
"Yes sir."
"I read your report on the Borg. It was rather impressive for someone claiming to be not technically inclined...the information you provided was extensive and thought provoking, but not as much as your chief recommendation for how to deal with them. You are absolutely certain that this...virus is the only way to stop them?"
"Yes sir, The Borg will be relentless in their continued pursuit of us. This initial first contact will give them a taste...when they come and we repel them, it will stir something in them that they've never experienced before with a species. Obsession. Our defiance, our RESISTANCE will be an affront to them so strong, they will hound us for decades. We resist and repel them so much that it creates a frenzy within the Hive Mind...the Queen herself will never admit it but becomes obsessed with assimilating us. Humanity's defiance creates a ripple effect of sorts---and while that's all good and well---I'd rather avoid the vast amount of lives this will cost altogether if I can help it. The virus is the only way to do it."
"Genocide is an option I don't condone at all...I would prefer a more benign solution to this problem, but there doesn't appear to be. Or I assume you would have mentioned it in your report?"
"I would have sir yes."
"The virus is a topological anomaly according to the dialogue that you cite in your report...Lt-Commander Data's considerable computing skills are what makes this such an effective tool. It is possible that Advanced Research and Development combined with cybernetics could duplicate what he can do...but there's no way to be sure that it would have the same success rate as with Data's programming."
"We could model it. I'm sure the super computers of this era have the capability of coming up with something similar, if not the exact design that Data and LaForge come up with. This is what I want you to work on with Shelby. Model the virus...see what kind of success rate you can get it out of it and if it is an acceptable rate--I'll take it to the Admiralty."
"Aye sir, I do have two requests. One is more of a question."
"Go on..."
"While my current quarters are more than adequate, I was wondering if it were possible if I could move into more...suitable quarters?"
"What did you have in mind Mr. Young?"
"I was thinking about Admiral Kirk's apartment."
This gets a chuckle from Hanson.
"I was not expecting to hear that from you. If I recall correctly, Kirk's old apartment on the harbour was turned into a museum briefly...I will have to speak to Starfleet Housing to see what it's current status is, but I think something can be managed on that front.
"Very good. I will look into the apartment for you...you will report to Lt. Shelby tomorrow morning at 08:00 hours. Dismissed."
I nod and turn around to leave. I still can't believe this is happening.
I report about a half hour early to Admiral Hanson's office and with 15 minutes left to wait---the secretary tells me that I can go in. I am wearing replicated casual early 21st century attire...in this case blue shorts, and a designer tee. Even fall in San Francisco---the weather is warm thanks to the control systems implemented. I enter the office and Admiral Hanson looks up from his monitor.
"Ah...Mr. Young. Welcome. Sit down please. Your promptness is noted and appreciated."
"Aye sir."
He presses a button and behind him I see the large screen display a Borg drone twirling around along with schematics and indicator lines stemming from it. He taps off his monitor and shuts the top .
"I had a chance to read your psyche report the other day. You've been through a great deal in a short period of time. How are you handling all of this?"
"I'm still in awe that I'm even here. It is like a literal dream, but I've been assured many times now that this is actually reality and happening. I'm adjusting as best I can."
"I'd imagine that suddenly being in one of your favourite shows, and interacting with some of your heroes...has been overwhelming?"
I chuckle.
"That's what Counsellor Xing said in our first session. Yes...it's been absolutely strange and overwhelming. I don't know why or how that I'm here...no one does yet. I've already talked to some of the best minds in the Federation---and they're baffled that I am here. I guess I just power through things like I always do."
"Yes. It has impressed all the shrinks, and quite frankly Admiral Shanthi and Admiral Blackwell. Which is why you're in MY office this morning."
"Yes sir, you are wanting me to join the task force to come up with a solution to stop the Borg."
"That's correct. Your profile states that you excel---like most sentient life---when presented with a challenge to over come. Or to have some kind of task to focus on. You stagnant when you are left to your own device..."
"Yes sir."
"I read your report on the Borg. It was rather impressive for someone claiming to be not technically inclined...the information you provided was extensive and thought provoking, but not as much as your chief recommendation for how to deal with them. You are absolutely certain that this...virus is the only way to stop them?"
"Yes sir, The Borg will be relentless in their continued pursuit of us. This initial first contact will give them a taste...when they come and we repel them, it will stir something in them that they've never experienced before with a species. Obsession. Our defiance, our RESISTANCE will be an affront to them so strong, they will hound us for decades. We resist and repel them so much that it creates a frenzy within the Hive Mind...the Queen herself will never admit it but becomes obsessed with assimilating us. Humanity's defiance creates a ripple effect of sorts---and while that's all good and well---I'd rather avoid the vast amount of lives this will cost altogether if I can help it. The virus is the only way to do it."
"Genocide is an option I don't condone at all...I would prefer a more benign solution to this problem, but there doesn't appear to be. Or I assume you would have mentioned it in your report?"
"I would have sir yes."
"The virus is a topological anomaly according to the dialogue that you cite in your report...Lt-Commander Data's considerable computing skills are what makes this such an effective tool. It is possible that Advanced Research and Development combined with cybernetics could duplicate what he can do...but there's no way to be sure that it would have the same success rate as with Data's programming."
"We could model it. I'm sure the super computers of this era have the capability of coming up with something similar, if not the exact design that Data and LaForge come up with. This is what I want you to work on with Shelby. Model the virus...see what kind of success rate you can get it out of it and if it is an acceptable rate--I'll take it to the Admiralty."
"Aye sir, I do have two requests. One is more of a question."
"Go on..."
"While my current quarters are more than adequate, I was wondering if it were possible if I could move into more...suitable quarters?"
"What did you have in mind Mr. Young?"
"I was thinking about Admiral Kirk's apartment."
This gets a chuckle from Hanson.
"I was not expecting to hear that from you. If I recall correctly, Kirk's old apartment on the harbour was turned into a museum briefly...I will have to speak to Starfleet Housing to see what it's current status is, but I think something can be managed on that front.
"Very good. I will look into the apartment for you...you will report to Lt. Shelby tomorrow morning at 08:00 hours. Dismissed."
I nod and turn around to leave. I still can't believe this is happening.
Chapter Nine: Shelby
DarkDestroyer
The Destroyer Of Worlds
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Over the course of the next two weeks, I am introduced to the members of Shelby's twelve person team. Experts from various different Starfleet operations, etc. As Admiral Hanson mentioned, I don't have the specifics of Data and Geordi's coding...so we do our best to create a topological anomaly from scratch. We have some very talented people on this team---should have expected nothing but the best from Shelby. The initial results are promising. The virus introduced via drone wipes out approximately 75 percent of the Collective. The Borg attempt to counter it but since it is self-replicating---each attempt to assimilate it--further affects the collective. Shelby's not satisfied though.
"The problem is the Queen's coding continues to resist it. Since we know next to nothing about how her program works...she's able to somehow still protect herself and a small fraction of drones."
We've been working together late this week. Staying well after hours while the others have left.
"75 percent of the collective along with all six known transwarp hubs is pretty damn good Lieutenant."
"Not good enough, Adam."
I grin.
"That's the first time you've called me by my name Lieutenant."
"Is it? I'm sorry, must be tired."
"Computer, what is the time?"
"It is 22:45 hours."
"14 hour day. Are you hungry at all? I'm starving."
Shelby who has been leaning over the console for an undetermined amount of time, while I've been sitting, turns around to face me and smirks. It is this moment where I realize that she's damn hot...
"Are you buying, Mr. Young" she asks
I stretch while getting up out of my chair.
"I don't have any credits unfortunately---I've only been eating and drinking from the replicator since I got here."
Shelby's face drops with genuine shock.
"You mean you've gone nearly two months without eating any real food?"
"Yeppers."
She puts her PAAD down and takes my hand.
"We're gonna change that right now, let's go."
"Where are we going?"
"We are going to Tokyo."
"What's in Tokyo?"
"You'll see."
We head to the main transport pad and beam over to Tokyo. They're 9 hours ahead of us so while it is dark and mostly quiet in San Francisco...it is currently 7 in the morning in Tokyo and the city is bustling already. It is breakfast time here but we head to a Waygu Teppanyaki place which brings a smile to myself. I've always wanted to go to one...I'm killing two birds with one stone as I've always also wanted to visit Japan. We walk into into a huge modern building and are greeted by an elderly woman. Shelby and her exchange words in Japanese and we're escorted to a booth seat.
"I used to eat here during the weekends, while at the Academy. The owners have known me ever since."
"You've picked up the language?"
"Coming here so much, I fell in love with the city, then decided to explore the island more on my days off. My first posting was at Daystrom."
"I didn't know that."
"Ahhhh, so you're not god."
"Far from it."
"You're a fascinating person Adam. I'm sure you've heard this before, but you must be still dealing with how...strange this all must be to you. A month ago you were in a different reality, doing whatever it is you do, and then bam...you're suddenly in one of your favourite shows, interacting with people you've seen on a screen."
"Yeah, it's been a bit of a roller coaster ride for sure. The shrinks must've had a field day with you."
"Oh I think they were giddy when they got a hold of me for sure. Counsellor Xing though was a blessing in disguise. Our sessions have been productive. I can't believe that I'm here though, I suspect that I'm going to feel like this for a while longer."
"More than likely. I've been impressed that you've worked so well with us. For a civilian you've kept up with us. You didn't strike me as a scientist when I first saw you."
"Yeah I get that. I'm a big nerd so some of the technological terms were familiar with me. I've seen the screens and know LCARS...but in reality I just barely grasp most of what is said. The practical application of it--still is beyond me. Although I've started reading technical manuals. If I'm taught, I learn pretty fast."
"I look forward to putting that to test..."
"I'm sure you will. As I'm sure you were briefed on before they sent you to recruit me, but I only know things about people that were shown on screen, or considered at least loosely canon in the books. It also depends on the person or how fleshed out they were by the writers. You're an open book to me."
"I've been called a lot of things, by a lot of people, but never an open book. What were your expectations of me?"
"An ambitious, career driven, hard ass. I'm glad to see that I was partially correct." Elizabeth laughs. It's a hearty laugh.
"I am assuming that they never showed my...softer side. Or to put it in other words, ME."
"Not really. The only downtime we see you have is a poker game." I need to be careful. I'm going to let slip some major spoilers. she chuckles at that.
"Playing with the senior staff no doubt. Did I win?"
"I believe you did, yes."
"That's good. Ah here it is. You're going to love this."
Even the veggies are cooked to perfection. Diced and grilled perfectly with a minimal amount of seasoning just for flavor. The Waygu beef is literally like butter, melting almost as soon as I attempt to bite it. No effort needed. It is absolutely like heaven.
"This is fucking the best steak I've ever had."
"Every person in the world should have an experience like this."
"What about vegans?"
"They're missing out."
"Not having any wasabi?"
"I can't handle the spice. My stomach is weak."
"They can give you a hypo for that."
"No thanks. I've never liked wasabi anyways."
"That's too bad." she says a little cheeky
A thought then enters my head that I never expected. I am considering doing normally that i wouldn't do. I'm literally in a new fresh situation. Risk is our business as Kirk said.
"So uh, thank you for dinner, this was amazing. I've always wanted to experience teppanyaki, and Japan."
"You're welcome...what are you doing when we get back?" she surprises me by asking
"Probably sleeping. What did you have in mind?"
After desert which is a slightly melted vanilla ice cream drizzled with mango sauce and is NEARLY as delicious as the main course was, we transport back to Elizabeth's apartment and she grabs me hard and begins to strip off my clothes. I reach around her neck and unzip her uniform, we kiss a couple of times, and she pulls down my shorts and proceeds to go down ah that...area....oh boy.
Over the course of the next two weeks, I am introduced to the members of Shelby's twelve person team. Experts from various different Starfleet operations, etc. As Admiral Hanson mentioned, I don't have the specifics of Data and Geordi's coding...so we do our best to create a topological anomaly from scratch. We have some very talented people on this team---should have expected nothing but the best from Shelby. The initial results are promising. The virus introduced via drone wipes out approximately 75 percent of the Collective. The Borg attempt to counter it but since it is self-replicating---each attempt to assimilate it--further affects the collective. Shelby's not satisfied though.
"The problem is the Queen's coding continues to resist it. Since we know next to nothing about how her program works...she's able to somehow still protect herself and a small fraction of drones."
We've been working together late this week. Staying well after hours while the others have left.
"75 percent of the collective along with all six known transwarp hubs is pretty damn good Lieutenant."
"Not good enough, Adam."
I grin.
"That's the first time you've called me by my name Lieutenant."
"Is it? I'm sorry, must be tired."
"Computer, what is the time?"
"It is 22:45 hours."
"14 hour day. Are you hungry at all? I'm starving."
Shelby who has been leaning over the console for an undetermined amount of time, while I've been sitting, turns around to face me and smirks. It is this moment where I realize that she's damn hot...
"Are you buying, Mr. Young" she asks
I stretch while getting up out of my chair.
"I don't have any credits unfortunately---I've only been eating and drinking from the replicator since I got here."
Shelby's face drops with genuine shock.
"You mean you've gone nearly two months without eating any real food?"
"Yeppers."
She puts her PAAD down and takes my hand.
"We're gonna change that right now, let's go."
"Where are we going?"
"We are going to Tokyo."
"What's in Tokyo?"
"You'll see."
We head to the main transport pad and beam over to Tokyo. They're 9 hours ahead of us so while it is dark and mostly quiet in San Francisco...it is currently 7 in the morning in Tokyo and the city is bustling already. It is breakfast time here but we head to a Waygu Teppanyaki place which brings a smile to myself. I've always wanted to go to one...I'm killing two birds with one stone as I've always also wanted to visit Japan. We walk into into a huge modern building and are greeted by an elderly woman. Shelby and her exchange words in Japanese and we're escorted to a booth seat.
"I used to eat here during the weekends, while at the Academy. The owners have known me ever since."
"You've picked up the language?"
"Coming here so much, I fell in love with the city, then decided to explore the island more on my days off. My first posting was at Daystrom."
"I didn't know that."
"Ahhhh, so you're not god."
"Far from it."
"You're a fascinating person Adam. I'm sure you've heard this before, but you must be still dealing with how...strange this all must be to you. A month ago you were in a different reality, doing whatever it is you do, and then bam...you're suddenly in one of your favourite shows, interacting with people you've seen on a screen."
"Yeah, it's been a bit of a roller coaster ride for sure. The shrinks must've had a field day with you."
"Oh I think they were giddy when they got a hold of me for sure. Counsellor Xing though was a blessing in disguise. Our sessions have been productive. I can't believe that I'm here though, I suspect that I'm going to feel like this for a while longer."
"More than likely. I've been impressed that you've worked so well with us. For a civilian you've kept up with us. You didn't strike me as a scientist when I first saw you."
"Yeah I get that. I'm a big nerd so some of the technological terms were familiar with me. I've seen the screens and know LCARS...but in reality I just barely grasp most of what is said. The practical application of it--still is beyond me. Although I've started reading technical manuals. If I'm taught, I learn pretty fast."
"I look forward to putting that to test..."
"I'm sure you will. As I'm sure you were briefed on before they sent you to recruit me, but I only know things about people that were shown on screen, or considered at least loosely canon in the books. It also depends on the person or how fleshed out they were by the writers. You're an open book to me."
"I've been called a lot of things, by a lot of people, but never an open book. What were your expectations of me?"
"An ambitious, career driven, hard ass. I'm glad to see that I was partially correct." Elizabeth laughs. It's a hearty laugh.
"I am assuming that they never showed my...softer side. Or to put it in other words, ME."
"Not really. The only downtime we see you have is a poker game." I need to be careful. I'm going to let slip some major spoilers. she chuckles at that.
"Playing with the senior staff no doubt. Did I win?"
"I believe you did, yes."
"That's good. Ah here it is. You're going to love this."
Even the veggies are cooked to perfection. Diced and grilled perfectly with a minimal amount of seasoning just for flavor. The Waygu beef is literally like butter, melting almost as soon as I attempt to bite it. No effort needed. It is absolutely like heaven.
"This is fucking the best steak I've ever had."
"Every person in the world should have an experience like this."
"What about vegans?"
"They're missing out."
"Not having any wasabi?"
"I can't handle the spice. My stomach is weak."
"They can give you a hypo for that."
"No thanks. I've never liked wasabi anyways."
"That's too bad." she says a little cheeky
A thought then enters my head that I never expected. I am considering doing normally that i wouldn't do. I'm literally in a new fresh situation. Risk is our business as Kirk said.
"So uh, thank you for dinner, this was amazing. I've always wanted to experience teppanyaki, and Japan."
"You're welcome...what are you doing when we get back?" she surprises me by asking
"Probably sleeping. What did you have in mind?"
After desert which is a slightly melted vanilla ice cream drizzled with mango sauce and is NEARLY as delicious as the main course was, we transport back to Elizabeth's apartment and she grabs me hard and begins to strip off my clothes. I reach around her neck and unzip her uniform, we kiss a couple of times, and she pulls down my shorts and proceeds to go down ah that...area....oh boy.
Last edited:
Chapter Ten: An Unexpected Dalliance
DarkDestroyer
The Destroyer Of Worlds
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Paramount-SkyDance Own Star Trek. For Entertainment Purposes Only. Non-Profit.
We wake up in the morning, glad it's Saturday and we have the day off, or else we'd be late for the first time. I glance down at Elizabeth and can't believe this is actually happening. She's still here too snuggled under my left arm. I've missed snuggling. She stirs.
"W-what time is it?"
"It's just after 8 in the morning."
She bolts up.
"We're fucking late!" she exclaims and I chuckle
"No we're not. Elizabeth, it's Saturday."
She relaxes then and lays back down as I admire her back. I kiss her and she smiles.
"You haven't had much experience with this...have you?" she asks
I blush.
"Like maybe four or five times."
"I could tell."
"I forgot how blunt you are....so was I?"
"Adequate. I've had worse. What was interesting is that you feign experience...but it was obvious that it's been a while for you. I don't mean to shame you, just an observation."
"I'll take it!"
She giggles.
"Does that mean that there may be more opportunities for me to learn..." kissing her forehead
"Certainly the case....you intrigue me."
"So what is this? What are we doing here?"
"What do you want it to be?" she asks
"I'm content with whatever you are comfortable with frankly. I am totally inexperienced, have never had a full time relationship before, and expect to go back to the Enterprise at some point---not to mention that your singular quest to become a Captain is the driving force in your life, and there's not much room for anything else." She looked pained when I said that and I instantly regret that
"You're right, getting a starship command of my own IS the driving force in my life. I have sacrificed a great deal to get to where I am right now---all top of the line officers do that. That doesn't mean that I haven't enjoyed some dalliances."
"If this is a one of those dalliances I am content with that."
November gives way to December as our team refines the modelling. There are other suggestions made, but none of them will work. Starfleet Command gives final approval to the Defiant program, along with my recommended changes and my suggestion that Benjamin Sisko oversee the project, and Leah Brahms work on the warp engines (no one else I trust more). When questioned about Sisko I simply tell Starfleet that he will become prominent during the Dominion War and this is a chance for Starfleet to have him under their noses. I suggest they have Curzon Dax nudge him in this direction. They want to know how I know about Curzon, and I shake my head and simply say that I know a lot of things. They'll get it in time.
I move into Jim Kirk's old apartment in November. It turns out the speculation about the building being a futuristic version of the skyscraper at 333 Market Place is correct. It is almost exactly 17 minutes walk to the Presidio, obviously quicker if I use the personal transporter that is located outside the building. However the walk is a nice one. When I first saw the place, everything was as I imagined it would be from the movies. Perfectly preserved. I would have thought that maybe Starfleet would have at least taken the weapons collection, but nope---there's the old school revolver. I replicate my own furniture like I did in my quarters at Starfleet. A custom King size bed and have those weird retro couches removed and replaced with more 21st century style arm chairs and couches. I like sitting in big chairs. I kind of hate going to a friends place and they have little itty bitty furniture that I can barely sit in. Not fun.
I have lost almost 18 pounds since my arrival. Starfleet's physical fitness training they put me through has been absolutely exhausting and that's not even for like officers or cadets. They just put me through rigorous exercises and fitness programs---that include running. Hypo's for the pain. I forgot the medication but I've had no side-effects from them nor am I dependent on anything so that's good on both accounts.
Elizabeth and I hide don't hide our...dalliance...we're professional about it and stick to work when we're with the team. We get the model to 95 percent efficiency and decide this is as good as it's gonna get and present it to Admiral Hanson.
Admiral Hanson looks at his screen behind his desk at the data that we've presented him as the model finishing simulating the effects of the virus and he exhales.
"You're still certain this is the only way to defeat them?"
"Yes. It's the only way that will secure the Federation and saves lives."
"Very well. I still do not condone this, but I will arrange a presentation to the Federation Council with you two present. You can make your case to them. I will act as your advocate if needed. Good work both of you. Dismissed."
The two of us head out of the office and head to dinner with the rest of the team where we enjoy a well deserved meal together. It has been rare that all 12 of us have enjoyed down time together. I have a feeling this will be my last time with these people so decide to enjoy myself.
The next day I am on the couch in Elizabeth's apartment dozing when all of a sudden I open my eyes and find her standing in front of me wearing a green swimsuit.
"What do you think?"
"You look amazing. You going for a dip?"
She rolls her eyes.
"For someone as usually hyperaware as you are---you can be a complete dolt at times. Go get your trunks on Mister."
"Oh. Is that an order Lieutenant Shelby?"
"You're being smart with me, so yes it is Mr. Young. On the double."
"Aye sir."
I go quickly change into my swimming trunks and Elizabeth and I go out to a private island resort for the rest of the weekend. It's a much needed little vacation.
"Your kind and honest...and speak your mind. Those are qualities that I appreciate. Very well...dalliance it is."
We wake up in the morning, glad it's Saturday and we have the day off, or else we'd be late for the first time. I glance down at Elizabeth and can't believe this is actually happening. She's still here too snuggled under my left arm. I've missed snuggling. She stirs.
"W-what time is it?"
"It's just after 8 in the morning."
She bolts up.
"We're fucking late!" she exclaims and I chuckle
"No we're not. Elizabeth, it's Saturday."
She relaxes then and lays back down as I admire her back. I kiss her and she smiles.
"You haven't had much experience with this...have you?" she asks
I blush.
"Like maybe four or five times."
"I could tell."
"I forgot how blunt you are....so was I?"
"Adequate. I've had worse. What was interesting is that you feign experience...but it was obvious that it's been a while for you. I don't mean to shame you, just an observation."
"I'll take it!"
She giggles.
"Does that mean that there may be more opportunities for me to learn..." kissing her forehead
"Certainly the case....you intrigue me."
"So what is this? What are we doing here?"
"What do you want it to be?" she asks
"I'm content with whatever you are comfortable with frankly. I am totally inexperienced, have never had a full time relationship before, and expect to go back to the Enterprise at some point---not to mention that your singular quest to become a Captain is the driving force in your life, and there's not much room for anything else." She looked pained when I said that and I instantly regret that
"You're right, getting a starship command of my own IS the driving force in my life. I have sacrificed a great deal to get to where I am right now---all top of the line officers do that. That doesn't mean that I haven't enjoyed some dalliances."
"If this is a one of those dalliances I am content with that."
November gives way to December as our team refines the modelling. There are other suggestions made, but none of them will work. Starfleet Command gives final approval to the Defiant program, along with my recommended changes and my suggestion that Benjamin Sisko oversee the project, and Leah Brahms work on the warp engines (no one else I trust more). When questioned about Sisko I simply tell Starfleet that he will become prominent during the Dominion War and this is a chance for Starfleet to have him under their noses. I suggest they have Curzon Dax nudge him in this direction. They want to know how I know about Curzon, and I shake my head and simply say that I know a lot of things. They'll get it in time.
I move into Jim Kirk's old apartment in November. It turns out the speculation about the building being a futuristic version of the skyscraper at 333 Market Place is correct. It is almost exactly 17 minutes walk to the Presidio, obviously quicker if I use the personal transporter that is located outside the building. However the walk is a nice one. When I first saw the place, everything was as I imagined it would be from the movies. Perfectly preserved. I would have thought that maybe Starfleet would have at least taken the weapons collection, but nope---there's the old school revolver. I replicate my own furniture like I did in my quarters at Starfleet. A custom King size bed and have those weird retro couches removed and replaced with more 21st century style arm chairs and couches. I like sitting in big chairs. I kind of hate going to a friends place and they have little itty bitty furniture that I can barely sit in. Not fun.
I have lost almost 18 pounds since my arrival. Starfleet's physical fitness training they put me through has been absolutely exhausting and that's not even for like officers or cadets. They just put me through rigorous exercises and fitness programs---that include running. Hypo's for the pain. I forgot the medication but I've had no side-effects from them nor am I dependent on anything so that's good on both accounts.
Elizabeth and I hide don't hide our...dalliance...we're professional about it and stick to work when we're with the team. We get the model to 95 percent efficiency and decide this is as good as it's gonna get and present it to Admiral Hanson.
Admiral Hanson looks at his screen behind his desk at the data that we've presented him as the model finishing simulating the effects of the virus and he exhales.
"You're still certain this is the only way to defeat them?"
"Yes. It's the only way that will secure the Federation and saves lives."
"Very well. I still do not condone this, but I will arrange a presentation to the Federation Council with you two present. You can make your case to them. I will act as your advocate if needed. Good work both of you. Dismissed."
The two of us head out of the office and head to dinner with the rest of the team where we enjoy a well deserved meal together. It has been rare that all 12 of us have enjoyed down time together. I have a feeling this will be my last time with these people so decide to enjoy myself.
The next day I am on the couch in Elizabeth's apartment dozing when all of a sudden I open my eyes and find her standing in front of me wearing a green swimsuit.
"What do you think?"
"You look amazing. You going for a dip?"
She rolls her eyes.
"For someone as usually hyperaware as you are---you can be a complete dolt at times. Go get your trunks on Mister."
"Oh. Is that an order Lieutenant Shelby?"
"You're being smart with me, so yes it is Mr. Young. On the double."
"Aye sir."
I go quickly change into my swimming trunks and Elizabeth and I go out to a private island resort for the rest of the weekend. It's a much needed little vacation.
"Your kind and honest...and speak your mind. Those are qualities that I appreciate. Very well...dalliance it is."
Chapter Eleven: The Board
DarkDestroyer
The Destroyer Of Worlds
- Joined
- Nov 22, 2025
- Messages
- 124
- Likes received
- 993
Paramount-SkyDance Own Star Trek. For Entertainment Purposes Only. Non-Profit.
Author's Note: I know some of you are wondering about certain things. Such as Jim Kirk, and Scotty. Things that SI Adam probably should be telling Starfleet about. I assure you all there is a plan of all of these things, and you'll see it executed in the coming weeks, and months as we go along.
A board consisting of 13 Admiral's---as well as Admiral Shanthi who acts as the tie breaker in any vote---is gathered. Admiral Hanson acts as our advocate. I sit at our table stone faced as I watch these Admirals take in our presentation. This is not something that I ever thought I'd be championing the cause of in the Star Trek'Verse. This actually has been hard on me mentally...but wiping out the Borg, is the only logical and realistic way of stopping them. They are out there right now, assimilating entire worlds. Killing billions in the process. Ending the evolutionary process of entire civilizations ancient and young. No one here yet knows or understands what they are capable of doing...I am realizing that they're going to reject this. I understand the reasons why they will---but it makes me upset.
The presentation lasts a hour. They deliberate for less than ten minutes before unanimously rejecting the proposal. They order the Task Force to come up with alternative solutions to this problem, for this one is unacceptable. I make a bee line for the door and I'm absolutely furious. We don't even make it to the Federation Security Council, let alone Council.
"Three fucking months...wasted. What was the point of anything that we did? Now I know how Jor-El felt!"
"Who?" Elizabeth asks
"Superman's father. In the comics, etc. He presents hard evidence to the Science Council of his planet, that the planet is destroying its self and they should make preparations to leave---but the Council ignores his warnings, and the planet is destroyed. I never thought I'd be in the same shoes...even if our circumstances are different."
"This wasn't a total loss, Mr. Young. Yes, they rejected the virus, we all knew that it was a long shot. However...there is a positive thing from this." Hanson says as I start to calm down.
"What's that sir?"
"It was unspoken, but I basically got my mandate to continue operating the Task Force. The answer is no for now, but given time, and changing circumstances that may change. It also means getting further resources and operational support. They also approved the Defiant Project quicker than I anticipated, largely thanks to your modification suggestions---so not for nothing. You both have done damn good work, as has the entire team. I'm very proud of you both."
"Thank you sir." we say in unison.
"Come on, let's go get something to eat. It's on me."
The three of us head to a nearby restaurant where J.P. regals us with stories of Jean-Luc Picard as well as his youth. He's a fascinating man, I'm going to miss him.
December has arrived and yes, Christmas, is celebrated, as is most other religious holidays, just perhaps not as profound as in our reality---and Christmas is much less material. It is mostly recognized now out of tradition. Elizabeth and I get a tree for the apartment and decorate it together. We're given the rest of the month off. Admiral Hanson calls me in to his office around the second week of December.
"Prompt as always Mr. Young. Please sit down."
"Aye sir."
"First of all I wanted to say that it has been a pleasure working with you. I wasn't sure how you would apply yourself to this...job...but you've come out exceeding my expectations, and handled the troubling material exceptionally well. I meant what I said the other day, I'm extremely proud of you. You've handled the extreme circumstances of your situation better than anyone has anticipated...especially the shrinks. A testament to your will."
"Thank you sir."
"Now to why I called you here. This was always meant to be a temporary assignment, to give you something to do while you went through your tests. Now that those have been completed and Starfleet is satisfied that you pose no threat--I am pleased to report that they have granted you permission to return to the Enterprise---assuming you still want to. I have spoken to Captain Picard, and he has agreed to welcome you back, and Starfleet has approved the transfer already. You'd be going in the new year."
"Thank you sir, I'm not sure what else to say except this has meant a lot to me. I wasn't sure what to expect when I got here until I met you and Elizabeth...you've both eased the adjustment period here for me."
"Starfleet has also chosen to grant you the position of Special Civilian Consultant---I believe that was Commander Riker's suggestion?"
"It was sir. Thank you sir. Are there any restrictions from them?"
"You are to obey both main directives, the Prime and Temporal, follow all the General Orders of course, and they recommend restraint where butterflying is concerned. They understand you will want to pursue your own thing, but recommend against that at all costs. I do as well Mr. Young."
The power to change the universe will always be in the back of my mind. Emperor Young....
"What about my request to begin officer training?"
"Starfleet Command sees fit to leave that up to Captain Picard, Commander Riker, and Counsellor Troi. I suspect that they've no problem with you training to become an officer---and will leave how up to them."
"Thank you sir."
"What is it you say? Good Journey?"
"Aye sir."
"Good Journey Mr. Young. Until we meet again."
Elizabeth is making dinner when I return home. She asks the obvious question and I tell her why I was there, she's happy for me, takes the news well. I can't tell if she's upset or not. She's bloody good at keeping her emotions in check. Not like me.
The month goes by rather quickly and I'm glad for the actual break. As I mentioned before--this last three months has been a whirlwind, whatever adjective you want to use to describe this craziness. We enjoy each other's company, as well as do Christmas shopping.
I learn that the Federation Council has put together a Think Tank consisting of some of the brightest theoretical physicists in the galaxy to come up with a way first---how it is possible that I got here, and secondly, how to get me home. They are based on Vulcan, hosted by the Vulcan Science Institute. Some of them chat with me for insight, and to get to know me, out of pure curiosity. I jokingly call them the 98 Group---since that is how many scientists they're comprised of. My favourite number.
Around December 23rd, Elizabeth asks me if I want to stay with her parents. We've been invited and she knows that I've been feeling--down lately. Not quite lonely, but I've been missing my family and friends. I accept and we head to Baltimore of all places as Brian and Anita Shelby own a place just on the outskirts of town. Elizabeth was born in Lawrence, Kansas, but explains that her parents moved here after Elizabeth graduated from the Academy. We transport just about a block away and walk up to the house, and knock. They answer and welcome us warmly.
"It's been a long time since Elizabeth brought home someone to meet us. It's a pleasure to meet you Adam."
"The pleasure's all mine Mr. Shelby."
"Call me Brian."
"We're really not together Dad."
We're not together are we? I arch my eyebrow. Then grin. Okay Elizabeth. Have it your way then.
"I'm afraid your daughter is correct, we're not together. We're going to need separate sleeping arrangements, if possible."
Elizabeth stops short and glares darts at me. I just smile.
"Oh that's too bad...we can pull out the living room couch for you if you need it. " Anita says
"Mom, Adam's joking around...we're together...just we have an arrangement."
"Friends with benefits?" Brian asks winking at me I blush from the surprise of the comments
"Sort of like that yeah. Look, we'll take the guest room." Elizabeth is blushing now and I take her elbow and we head up the stairs with our bags. This should be an interesting first Christmas in the Star Trek Universe!
Author's Note: I know some of you are wondering about certain things. Such as Jim Kirk, and Scotty. Things that SI Adam probably should be telling Starfleet about. I assure you all there is a plan of all of these things, and you'll see it executed in the coming weeks, and months as we go along.
A board consisting of 13 Admiral's---as well as Admiral Shanthi who acts as the tie breaker in any vote---is gathered. Admiral Hanson acts as our advocate. I sit at our table stone faced as I watch these Admirals take in our presentation. This is not something that I ever thought I'd be championing the cause of in the Star Trek'Verse. This actually has been hard on me mentally...but wiping out the Borg, is the only logical and realistic way of stopping them. They are out there right now, assimilating entire worlds. Killing billions in the process. Ending the evolutionary process of entire civilizations ancient and young. No one here yet knows or understands what they are capable of doing...I am realizing that they're going to reject this. I understand the reasons why they will---but it makes me upset.
The presentation lasts a hour. They deliberate for less than ten minutes before unanimously rejecting the proposal. They order the Task Force to come up with alternative solutions to this problem, for this one is unacceptable. I make a bee line for the door and I'm absolutely furious. We don't even make it to the Federation Security Council, let alone Council.
"Three fucking months...wasted. What was the point of anything that we did? Now I know how Jor-El felt!"
"Who?" Elizabeth asks
"Superman's father. In the comics, etc. He presents hard evidence to the Science Council of his planet, that the planet is destroying its self and they should make preparations to leave---but the Council ignores his warnings, and the planet is destroyed. I never thought I'd be in the same shoes...even if our circumstances are different."
"This wasn't a total loss, Mr. Young. Yes, they rejected the virus, we all knew that it was a long shot. However...there is a positive thing from this." Hanson says as I start to calm down.
"What's that sir?"
"It was unspoken, but I basically got my mandate to continue operating the Task Force. The answer is no for now, but given time, and changing circumstances that may change. It also means getting further resources and operational support. They also approved the Defiant Project quicker than I anticipated, largely thanks to your modification suggestions---so not for nothing. You both have done damn good work, as has the entire team. I'm very proud of you both."
"Thank you sir." we say in unison.
"Come on, let's go get something to eat. It's on me."
The three of us head to a nearby restaurant where J.P. regals us with stories of Jean-Luc Picard as well as his youth. He's a fascinating man, I'm going to miss him.
December has arrived and yes, Christmas, is celebrated, as is most other religious holidays, just perhaps not as profound as in our reality---and Christmas is much less material. It is mostly recognized now out of tradition. Elizabeth and I get a tree for the apartment and decorate it together. We're given the rest of the month off. Admiral Hanson calls me in to his office around the second week of December.
"Prompt as always Mr. Young. Please sit down."
"Aye sir."
"First of all I wanted to say that it has been a pleasure working with you. I wasn't sure how you would apply yourself to this...job...but you've come out exceeding my expectations, and handled the troubling material exceptionally well. I meant what I said the other day, I'm extremely proud of you. You've handled the extreme circumstances of your situation better than anyone has anticipated...especially the shrinks. A testament to your will."
"Thank you sir."
"Now to why I called you here. This was always meant to be a temporary assignment, to give you something to do while you went through your tests. Now that those have been completed and Starfleet is satisfied that you pose no threat--I am pleased to report that they have granted you permission to return to the Enterprise---assuming you still want to. I have spoken to Captain Picard, and he has agreed to welcome you back, and Starfleet has approved the transfer already. You'd be going in the new year."
"Thank you sir, I'm not sure what else to say except this has meant a lot to me. I wasn't sure what to expect when I got here until I met you and Elizabeth...you've both eased the adjustment period here for me."
"Starfleet has also chosen to grant you the position of Special Civilian Consultant---I believe that was Commander Riker's suggestion?"
"It was sir. Thank you sir. Are there any restrictions from them?"
"You are to obey both main directives, the Prime and Temporal, follow all the General Orders of course, and they recommend restraint where butterflying is concerned. They understand you will want to pursue your own thing, but recommend against that at all costs. I do as well Mr. Young."
The power to change the universe will always be in the back of my mind. Emperor Young....
"What about my request to begin officer training?"
"Starfleet Command sees fit to leave that up to Captain Picard, Commander Riker, and Counsellor Troi. I suspect that they've no problem with you training to become an officer---and will leave how up to them."
"Thank you sir."
"What is it you say? Good Journey?"
"Aye sir."
"Good Journey Mr. Young. Until we meet again."
Elizabeth is making dinner when I return home. She asks the obvious question and I tell her why I was there, she's happy for me, takes the news well. I can't tell if she's upset or not. She's bloody good at keeping her emotions in check. Not like me.
The month goes by rather quickly and I'm glad for the actual break. As I mentioned before--this last three months has been a whirlwind, whatever adjective you want to use to describe this craziness. We enjoy each other's company, as well as do Christmas shopping.
I learn that the Federation Council has put together a Think Tank consisting of some of the brightest theoretical physicists in the galaxy to come up with a way first---how it is possible that I got here, and secondly, how to get me home. They are based on Vulcan, hosted by the Vulcan Science Institute. Some of them chat with me for insight, and to get to know me, out of pure curiosity. I jokingly call them the 98 Group---since that is how many scientists they're comprised of. My favourite number.
Around December 23rd, Elizabeth asks me if I want to stay with her parents. We've been invited and she knows that I've been feeling--down lately. Not quite lonely, but I've been missing my family and friends. I accept and we head to Baltimore of all places as Brian and Anita Shelby own a place just on the outskirts of town. Elizabeth was born in Lawrence, Kansas, but explains that her parents moved here after Elizabeth graduated from the Academy. We transport just about a block away and walk up to the house, and knock. They answer and welcome us warmly.
"It's been a long time since Elizabeth brought home someone to meet us. It's a pleasure to meet you Adam."
"The pleasure's all mine Mr. Shelby."
"Call me Brian."
"We're really not together Dad."
We're not together are we? I arch my eyebrow. Then grin. Okay Elizabeth. Have it your way then.
"I'm afraid your daughter is correct, we're not together. We're going to need separate sleeping arrangements, if possible."
Elizabeth stops short and glares darts at me. I just smile.
"Oh that's too bad...we can pull out the living room couch for you if you need it. " Anita says
"Mom, Adam's joking around...we're together...just we have an arrangement."
"Friends with benefits?" Brian asks winking at me I blush from the surprise of the comments
"Sort of like that yeah. Look, we'll take the guest room." Elizabeth is blushing now and I take her elbow and we head up the stairs with our bags. This should be an interesting first Christmas in the Star Trek Universe!
Chapter 12 A Very Merry Trekmas To Me!!!!
DarkDestroyer
The Destroyer Of Worlds
- Joined
- Nov 22, 2025
- Messages
- 124
- Likes received
- 993
Paramount-SkyDance own Star Trek. For Entertainment Purposes Only. Non-Profit.
Author's Note: A lot of Elizabeth's world building and character development, such as her parents I believe comes from her entry in Starship Creator. I will be using select beta canon from the books, comics, and games, etc where appropriate. "Brian" is of course though named after the actresses real life father.
Christmas turns out to be absolutely fantastic and Brian and Anita are warm and welcoming. Not typical of parents that I usually interact with, they're almost a hippy like throw back but without the outlandish clothes. Brian actually reminds me of Ultimate Uncle Ben but without the pony tail. I half expected to see Brian Dennehy and Elizabeth Dennehy's mom here, but it is a reminder once more that this is not the show, this is real life. We have a traditional Christmas dinner with mashed potatoes and sweet potatoes. Gravy, they accommodate me and make Yorkshire puddings which I'm grateful for. We exchange presents on Christmas morning as well. We spend Christmas evening with them and then leave on Boxing Day. Elizabeth knows that I want to spend my birthday alone with her at the apartment so we head back there.
The next couple of days before my birthday are quiet. My birthday arrives---it is my 44rd birthday...and the two of us spend it together. I have one of my favourite meals, and Tiramisu for desert. We then spend the rest of the evening together.
While in bed together, Elizabeth gets up and goes to get something. She comes back with a purple covering that has something LONG in it. I sit up in bed.
"What's this?"
"Your birthday present. Happy Birthday Adam."
"I thought you were my birthday present...."
"Oh I'm one of them..."
I take the covering and immediately feel the weight of the gift and smile. I think I know what this is. I unloose the covering to reveal a beautiful hand woven leather scabbard with gold embroidering on it. I see the wire wrapped grip, and brass hilt and pull it out of the scabbard. I'm speechless.
"Elizabeth...this is..."
"You like it?
It is a custom replica of the sword Excalibur from John Boorman's film. Absolutely breathtaking. I'm literally speechless as I hold it aloft. I am also conscience of the fact that I am naked holding a weapon. But I am flabbergasted.
"Absolutely adore it...h-how did you even have time to get this made?"
"If something is important to you, you make the time."
I kiss her head.
"You've read Captain Kirk's autobiography..."
"Required reading at the Academy."
"This is truly beautiful, thank you babe."
I put the blade down and back in its scabbard and Elizabeth and i make love.
We're invited to a Starfleet party on New Year's Eve. I don't want to go but Elizabeth insists as it's our final night together and we should spend it doing something other than being at home. I begrudgingly agree and we show up. Elizabeth is in her dress uniform, newly promoted to Lt-Commander now, and I'm wearing a tux that I had replicated. It's still weird wearing replicated clothing. It feels REAL, the fabric I mean, but the notion that basically most everyone is naked is in the back of my head still. Almost immediately I feel like I wanna go back home, but I suck it up and small chat with folks who approach me. Eventually though I head over to a window and look out at the bay. I brood for a bit until I hear an unexpected, but very familiar voice behind me.
"You must be Adam."
I turn around to see who is speaking, and it's none other than Gates McFadden staring right back at me. I will not ever get tired of this! It is indeed Doctor Beverly Crusher standing in front of me, holding a crystalline goblet filled with white wine.
"Doctor Crusher." I say trying to cover my shock. Of course she'd be here. She's still the head of Starfleet Medical until tomorrow morning.
"I saw you over here and wanted to introduce myself."
"It's a pleasure to meet you Doctor."
"Call me Beverly, I'm off duty. It would seem that my duties as head of Starfleet Medical prevented me from actually meeting you this year."
"I just assumed that all my medical reports went directly to you, and if you had needed to see me directly, you would have called me into your office."
"That's right. My regular duties keep me occupied during the day---so even classified materials don't get my direct attention right away. However when I saw your tests come back in---I was intrigued. It's not every day you come across a reality hopper. I wanted to make time to meet with you but just couldn't."
"I understand believe me. I can't believe you're here."
"I understand you'll be on the transport to the Enterprise with me tomorrow afternoon..."
"That's right."
"I look forward to seeing you there. I'm sure you'll make for some interesting company indeed."
I raise my glass back to her and she saunters away as Elizabeth comes and finds me.
"What was that all about?"
"Doctor Crusher was introducing herself to me. It's kind of astonishing that I hadn't been called in to see her during that first month."
"Blondes and redheads huh?"
"What?"
"You have a type."
"Oh yeah...I guess. I like brunettes too though so I'm not real picky. Have you had a fun evening?"
"I have, but can see that you are not. Do you want to go home? I can think of more engaging ways we can spend our final night together."
"Only if you're done here. I don't want to pry you from your networking."
"I think I'm done. Met a few interesting Admirals...had some intriguing discussions. You're more important to me now...even if we're done after tonight."
I sigh.
"What's wrong?" she asks
"Elizabeth...you have come to mean a great deal to me. You know everything there is to know about me, you've become more than just a lover, you've become my best friend. I agree parting ways is the best for both of us--but I hope that doesn't change anything about our friendship. I'd miss talking with you."
Elizabeth rolls her eyes.
"You really are a dolt sometimes. Before we leave, there's someone you should be introduced to. Try to compose yourself." she states and I arch my eye brow
We move through the main floor and near the bar, entertaining a gathering of people, I see a tall, older man with a shock of white hair. I exhale in anticipation. I didn't expect to see him at all. Elizabeth and I make our way through the gathering and there he is. The Great Man himself.
"Adam Christopher Young...this is..."
"Curzon...." I say informally in almost a whisper.
"Ah Mr. Young I presume. I have been briefed about you, hello Lizzie, it's always good to see you." Curzon says and extends his hand
I grasp it and it is as expected a good, strong grip---but also somehow gentle.
The crowd around him dissipates as it is just the three of us talking now.
"The honor is truly mine, Ambassador." I reply formally
"Too late. You already used my name informally, so it must be Curzon from now on. Come on, hop on the stool and have a drink with me." He says
I'm not at all surprised that Curzon Dax knew Elizabeth Shelby. I look over at her and she smiles and nods. So I oblige the Old Man. For someone who's about to die in a couple of years, Curzon looks as healthy as ever, that magical twinkle in his eye. I look down and he's ordered us whiskey's. Ugh. But since it's Curzon...I'll man up.
"Starfleet Command chose to brief me on you shortly after you gave them you're most interesting threat assessment report. I have seen and experienced a whole lot in my career, Mr. Young, but I think you take the cake! Cheers!" we clink shot glasses and we down them and I visibly react to the whiskey. Nasty ass drink. Dax laughs. It's hearty laugh, but not unpleasant.
"Not a fan of the bourbon?" he asks as I start coughing
"N-n-no. I-I am not." I continue to cough as I answer honestly and Elizabeth rubs my back amused as well
"It is something of an acquired taste. So...you've managed to ruffle some feathers in your short time here. Rattled the cage as they say. Good for you. I like that, you will go far here I think." Curzon says
"Thank you sir." as I continue to cough and ask for a glass of water
"I told you Curzon. You're going to Picard's ship again, the Enterprise?" he asks but he obviously already knows
"Yes. At the end of the week."
"A good ship, and a fine Captain. Perhaps the finest. If you need anything at all, don't hesitate to ask. Connections or otherwise." he states
I nod and this starts the rest of the night with a flurry of stories. Elizabeth and I don't stumble back into her quarters until well after 4 in the morning...I'm gonna have such a hangover.
Author's Note: A lot of Elizabeth's world building and character development, such as her parents I believe comes from her entry in Starship Creator. I will be using select beta canon from the books, comics, and games, etc where appropriate. "Brian" is of course though named after the actresses real life father.
Christmas turns out to be absolutely fantastic and Brian and Anita are warm and welcoming. Not typical of parents that I usually interact with, they're almost a hippy like throw back but without the outlandish clothes. Brian actually reminds me of Ultimate Uncle Ben but without the pony tail. I half expected to see Brian Dennehy and Elizabeth Dennehy's mom here, but it is a reminder once more that this is not the show, this is real life. We have a traditional Christmas dinner with mashed potatoes and sweet potatoes. Gravy, they accommodate me and make Yorkshire puddings which I'm grateful for. We exchange presents on Christmas morning as well. We spend Christmas evening with them and then leave on Boxing Day. Elizabeth knows that I want to spend my birthday alone with her at the apartment so we head back there.
The next couple of days before my birthday are quiet. My birthday arrives---it is my 44rd birthday...and the two of us spend it together. I have one of my favourite meals, and Tiramisu for desert. We then spend the rest of the evening together.
While in bed together, Elizabeth gets up and goes to get something. She comes back with a purple covering that has something LONG in it. I sit up in bed.
"What's this?"
"Your birthday present. Happy Birthday Adam."
"I thought you were my birthday present...."
"Oh I'm one of them..."
I take the covering and immediately feel the weight of the gift and smile. I think I know what this is. I unloose the covering to reveal a beautiful hand woven leather scabbard with gold embroidering on it. I see the wire wrapped grip, and brass hilt and pull it out of the scabbard. I'm speechless.
"Elizabeth...this is..."
"You like it?
It is a custom replica of the sword Excalibur from John Boorman's film. Absolutely breathtaking. I'm literally speechless as I hold it aloft. I am also conscience of the fact that I am naked holding a weapon. But I am flabbergasted.
"Absolutely adore it...h-how did you even have time to get this made?"
"If something is important to you, you make the time."
I kiss her head.
"You've read Captain Kirk's autobiography..."
"Required reading at the Academy."
"This is truly beautiful, thank you babe."
I put the blade down and back in its scabbard and Elizabeth and i make love.
We're invited to a Starfleet party on New Year's Eve. I don't want to go but Elizabeth insists as it's our final night together and we should spend it doing something other than being at home. I begrudgingly agree and we show up. Elizabeth is in her dress uniform, newly promoted to Lt-Commander now, and I'm wearing a tux that I had replicated. It's still weird wearing replicated clothing. It feels REAL, the fabric I mean, but the notion that basically most everyone is naked is in the back of my head still. Almost immediately I feel like I wanna go back home, but I suck it up and small chat with folks who approach me. Eventually though I head over to a window and look out at the bay. I brood for a bit until I hear an unexpected, but very familiar voice behind me.
"You must be Adam."
I turn around to see who is speaking, and it's none other than Gates McFadden staring right back at me. I will not ever get tired of this! It is indeed Doctor Beverly Crusher standing in front of me, holding a crystalline goblet filled with white wine.
"Doctor Crusher." I say trying to cover my shock. Of course she'd be here. She's still the head of Starfleet Medical until tomorrow morning.
"I saw you over here and wanted to introduce myself."
"It's a pleasure to meet you Doctor."
"Call me Beverly, I'm off duty. It would seem that my duties as head of Starfleet Medical prevented me from actually meeting you this year."
"I just assumed that all my medical reports went directly to you, and if you had needed to see me directly, you would have called me into your office."
"That's right. My regular duties keep me occupied during the day---so even classified materials don't get my direct attention right away. However when I saw your tests come back in---I was intrigued. It's not every day you come across a reality hopper. I wanted to make time to meet with you but just couldn't."
"I understand believe me. I can't believe you're here."
"I understand you'll be on the transport to the Enterprise with me tomorrow afternoon..."
"That's right."
"I look forward to seeing you there. I'm sure you'll make for some interesting company indeed."
I raise my glass back to her and she saunters away as Elizabeth comes and finds me.
"What was that all about?"
"Doctor Crusher was introducing herself to me. It's kind of astonishing that I hadn't been called in to see her during that first month."
"Blondes and redheads huh?"
"What?"
"You have a type."
"Oh yeah...I guess. I like brunettes too though so I'm not real picky. Have you had a fun evening?"
"I have, but can see that you are not. Do you want to go home? I can think of more engaging ways we can spend our final night together."
"Only if you're done here. I don't want to pry you from your networking."
"I think I'm done. Met a few interesting Admirals...had some intriguing discussions. You're more important to me now...even if we're done after tonight."
I sigh.
"What's wrong?" she asks
"Elizabeth...you have come to mean a great deal to me. You know everything there is to know about me, you've become more than just a lover, you've become my best friend. I agree parting ways is the best for both of us--but I hope that doesn't change anything about our friendship. I'd miss talking with you."
Elizabeth rolls her eyes.
"You really are a dolt sometimes. Before we leave, there's someone you should be introduced to. Try to compose yourself." she states and I arch my eye brow
We move through the main floor and near the bar, entertaining a gathering of people, I see a tall, older man with a shock of white hair. I exhale in anticipation. I didn't expect to see him at all. Elizabeth and I make our way through the gathering and there he is. The Great Man himself.
"Adam Christopher Young...this is..."
"Curzon...." I say informally in almost a whisper.
"Ah Mr. Young I presume. I have been briefed about you, hello Lizzie, it's always good to see you." Curzon says and extends his hand
I grasp it and it is as expected a good, strong grip---but also somehow gentle.
The crowd around him dissipates as it is just the three of us talking now.
"The honor is truly mine, Ambassador." I reply formally
"Too late. You already used my name informally, so it must be Curzon from now on. Come on, hop on the stool and have a drink with me." He says
I'm not at all surprised that Curzon Dax knew Elizabeth Shelby. I look over at her and she smiles and nods. So I oblige the Old Man. For someone who's about to die in a couple of years, Curzon looks as healthy as ever, that magical twinkle in his eye. I look down and he's ordered us whiskey's. Ugh. But since it's Curzon...I'll man up.
"Starfleet Command chose to brief me on you shortly after you gave them you're most interesting threat assessment report. I have seen and experienced a whole lot in my career, Mr. Young, but I think you take the cake! Cheers!" we clink shot glasses and we down them and I visibly react to the whiskey. Nasty ass drink. Dax laughs. It's hearty laugh, but not unpleasant.
"Not a fan of the bourbon?" he asks as I start coughing
"N-n-no. I-I am not." I continue to cough as I answer honestly and Elizabeth rubs my back amused as well
"It is something of an acquired taste. So...you've managed to ruffle some feathers in your short time here. Rattled the cage as they say. Good for you. I like that, you will go far here I think." Curzon says
"Thank you sir." as I continue to cough and ask for a glass of water
"I told you Curzon. You're going to Picard's ship again, the Enterprise?" he asks but he obviously already knows
"Yes. At the end of the week."
"A good ship, and a fine Captain. Perhaps the finest. If you need anything at all, don't hesitate to ask. Connections or otherwise." he states
I nod and this starts the rest of the night with a flurry of stories. Elizabeth and I don't stumble back into her quarters until well after 4 in the morning...I'm gonna have such a hangover.
Chapter Thirteen: The Enterprise
DarkDestroyer
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Elizabeth and I part ways and promise to keep in touch. Meeting Curzon was an unexpected pleasure. I will take him up on his offer, and mention a couple of things to him in confidence that ultimately prove my...abilities. The USS Repulse arrives to take Beverly and I to the Enterprise, and to pick up an old friend who is returning to duty.
"Dr. Pulaski. It is a pleasure to see you again." I greet Kate as we shake hands
"You are looking in good health, Mr. Young. I see you have followed my orders to a tee. You look much better than when I found you." Puluski has a glow about her that the series never properly captured in my opinion. Diana Muldur was almost too good for this part. She turns to face Beverly.
"Beverly." she greets
"Kate. It's good to see you again."
"I am happy to report that your Captain, and crew are in good health. We had a brief scare with Commander Riker as you probably know Mr. Young, but he's fully recovered from his ordeal. It's funny. I was hesitant about first joining the Enterprise following you, but now I find myself..."
"Missing the ship already?" Beverly asks and Kate nods
"It's made a lasting impression on me." she replies and I chuckle
"Ships name Enterprise, tend to do that I think."
"Well. I shall leave you both to your endeavours. Good luck, Mr. Young."
"Thank you Doctor, for everything. Stay in touch."
"I will if you call me Kate." and I nod as we step onto the transporter pad.
It is a pleasant enough trip to the Kavis Alpha System, where the Enterprise has just arrived to begin preparations for Dr. Paul Stubb's experiment with the "egg". The Doctor and I are transported over and Commander Riker and Counsellor Troi greet us warmly. Deanna and Beverly hug while Commander Riker flashes that trademark Frakes grin as I step off the transporter pad. That will never ever get old.
"Welcome back home, both of you. Beverly, Wesley is currently engaged in his studies, but once he's off duty, I know he's been eager to see you. Mr. Young, Captain Picard is with Dr. Stubbs at the moment but will see you once you've settled in your quarters."
"Thank you sir. It's good to be back. Where...uh...exactly are my quarters?"
"Deck 8, room 0900. 12 doors down from me. Ensign Velendez here will escort you."
"Aye sir."
"Remember, Adam, your medical exam is tomorrow morning at 10:00, don't be late. I don't want to have to hunt you down." Beverly teases
"You won't need to Doctor. I'll be there. Hello Counsellor."
"Welcome aboard Mr. Young. I'll see you when you're more settled."
I just nod as Ensign Velendez...shows me out of the transporter room.
A few minutes later and I step into the quarters after hearing that swooshing sound of the doors opening. These aren't the VIP guest quarters I enjoyed when I was here briefly last year, and no where near the giant quarters I was given at Starfleet...but these will do nicely indeed. I strip down and head for a quick sonic shower (best not to fuck with the settings too much, don't want my skin scorched---or worse) and change into clean clothes. Black sweater. Black pants (I can almost fit into jeans again!) and of course my now trademark leather jacket with hood. I see Excalibur already placed on my bed and I pick it up and put up on the wall, fiddle around with it until i'm satisfied with how it looks and when I'm done I hear my comm badge beep.
"Worf to Young."
"Young here."
"Captain Picard will see you in his ready room now."
Hello again to you too Worf.
"Understood. I'm on my way. Young out."
I exhale briefly and smile. Now here's where the real fun begins. It's time to go to work.
Elizabeth and I part ways and promise to keep in touch. Meeting Curzon was an unexpected pleasure. I will take him up on his offer, and mention a couple of things to him in confidence that ultimately prove my...abilities. The USS Repulse arrives to take Beverly and I to the Enterprise, and to pick up an old friend who is returning to duty.
"Dr. Pulaski. It is a pleasure to see you again." I greet Kate as we shake hands
"You are looking in good health, Mr. Young. I see you have followed my orders to a tee. You look much better than when I found you." Puluski has a glow about her that the series never properly captured in my opinion. Diana Muldur was almost too good for this part. She turns to face Beverly.
"Beverly." she greets
"Kate. It's good to see you again."
"I am happy to report that your Captain, and crew are in good health. We had a brief scare with Commander Riker as you probably know Mr. Young, but he's fully recovered from his ordeal. It's funny. I was hesitant about first joining the Enterprise following you, but now I find myself..."
"Missing the ship already?" Beverly asks and Kate nods
"It's made a lasting impression on me." she replies and I chuckle
"Ships name Enterprise, tend to do that I think."
"Well. I shall leave you both to your endeavours. Good luck, Mr. Young."
"Thank you Doctor, for everything. Stay in touch."
"I will if you call me Kate." and I nod as we step onto the transporter pad.
It is a pleasant enough trip to the Kavis Alpha System, where the Enterprise has just arrived to begin preparations for Dr. Paul Stubb's experiment with the "egg". The Doctor and I are transported over and Commander Riker and Counsellor Troi greet us warmly. Deanna and Beverly hug while Commander Riker flashes that trademark Frakes grin as I step off the transporter pad. That will never ever get old.
"Welcome back home, both of you. Beverly, Wesley is currently engaged in his studies, but once he's off duty, I know he's been eager to see you. Mr. Young, Captain Picard is with Dr. Stubbs at the moment but will see you once you've settled in your quarters."
"Thank you sir. It's good to be back. Where...uh...exactly are my quarters?"
"Deck 8, room 0900. 12 doors down from me. Ensign Velendez here will escort you."
"Aye sir."
"Remember, Adam, your medical exam is tomorrow morning at 10:00, don't be late. I don't want to have to hunt you down." Beverly teases
"You won't need to Doctor. I'll be there. Hello Counsellor."
"Welcome aboard Mr. Young. I'll see you when you're more settled."
I just nod as Ensign Velendez...shows me out of the transporter room.
A few minutes later and I step into the quarters after hearing that swooshing sound of the doors opening. These aren't the VIP guest quarters I enjoyed when I was here briefly last year, and no where near the giant quarters I was given at Starfleet...but these will do nicely indeed. I strip down and head for a quick sonic shower (best not to fuck with the settings too much, don't want my skin scorched---or worse) and change into clean clothes. Black sweater. Black pants (I can almost fit into jeans again!) and of course my now trademark leather jacket with hood. I see Excalibur already placed on my bed and I pick it up and put up on the wall, fiddle around with it until i'm satisfied with how it looks and when I'm done I hear my comm badge beep.
"Worf to Young."
"Young here."
"Captain Picard will see you in his ready room now."
Hello again to you too Worf.
"Understood. I'm on my way. Young out."
I exhale briefly and smile. Now here's where the real fun begins. It's time to go to work.
Chapter Fourteen: Back in the Ready Room
DarkDestroyer
The Destroyer Of Worlds
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"Mr. Young...welcome aboard the Enterprise. Welcome back." Captain Picard stands up from behind his desk and walks over to greet me as I pass through the door.
Offers me his hand and I take it. Picard has a great grip, showing his strength, but also his warmth. He offers me a seat.
I sit down.
"I read your file, and J.P. sent me the declassified parts of what you and your team were working on. It seems your time at Starfleet was put to good use?"
"Aye sir. Challenging at times, but I learned a great deal, met a lot of terrific people." I reply
"Now you're back...and itching to put to use your...abilities." The context of defining the tv knowledge still makes me cringe. They're not really abilities, everyone just calls it that now to come to some kind of acceptance of them.
"Actually sir I'm more itching to hear your answer to my uh....request. I realize it is a little unusual."
"You wish to undergo officer training...or at least some kind of escalated version of it."
"Yes sir."
"Mr. Crusher's crash course,...as you put it in your report is not really suitable for you. Commander Riker and Counsellor Troi designed that specifically for Wesley's...special attributes, I have read your psyche profile, as well as the intelligence report on you and while you would probably make a fine NCO---I'm not sure about an officer, yet." Picard replies bluntly
"Yes sir." I say...my voice betraying my disappointment
"However I will discuss this matter with Commander Riker, and Counsellor Troi ,as well by Admiral Hanson. The fact that you managed to gain Admiral Hanson's trust is grand indeed." Picard notes
"Thank you sir."
"Before we get to immediate matters. Starfleet Command has allowed me, certain latitudes in regards to how I choose to use you. This is a unique situation no other Starfleet Captain has experienced. We shall proceed with caution in this matter. I do not want you to become a...crutch. Nor do I wish for you to overstep your bounds should we have multiple successes with...what did the report call it....butterflying?" Picard asks
"Yes sir. I understand sir." I reply
"Be that with what it may, What can you tell me about our guest?" Picard asks
I finish telling Picard about Dr. Stubbs giving him as much information about the man and what happens as I can. After I'm dismissed, I saunter into Sickbay for my physical. Doctor Crusher is waiting for me at biobed one. I hop up on the bed and she begins the familiar procedure...it is a routine medical check up, nothing more.
"So how was your meeting with the Captain?" she asks as she begins running the medical tricorder up and down in front of me. I am temporarily distracted by it.
"It went fine. He welcomed me back, and we talked a bit about Dr. Stubbs."
"He seems like an interesting individual, Wesley talked almost all night about him."
"I'm not surprised. How is Wesley?"
"He seems to be doing okay. Slightly aloof, has me at arm's length, which concerns me."
"Go easy on him Doctor. He's spent a year here without his mom. There's nothing to be concerned about, nothing to push about either, he'll come around once he realizes that you are here again."
She stops scanning and looks at me.
"Is he---is he mad at me? That I left him?" she asks concerned
"You should ask him that, Doctor." I reply
"I'm asking you."
I sigh.
"All I will say, is that he has spent the last year growing up, discovering new things, having new experiences. All the things kids his age do. Things I did---well except saving the ship part. You should be very proud of the person he is becoming Doctor."
"You really don't want to tell us things that may upset us do you?" she resumes scanning me, I briefly glance at the medical monitor screen in front of us and off to the side of us is a panel with a read out of my vitals. The future is amazing.
"It's not my place to do that Doctor. I possess information about all of your futures. If I say something, anything---even something positive---it could disrupt the time stream dramatically in ways we can not possibility contemplate. I believe in actions beget consequences and my very presence should trigger serious ones. Besides which I agreed to follow the Temporal Prime Directive. It's the only thing Starfleet can reinforce on me. The DTI is not exactly I'm here either." I explain.
"What I don't understand is how they are granting you permission to...butterfly things...wouldn't that be an example of violating the Directive? Even if it was something minor, or positive?"
"That is a good question. Admiral Hansen told me that they put---"restrictions" on me, and to not get carried away. Captain Picard has been given...a strict leeway on how to use me as well. I supposed they are trusting me to use my own judgement, but you're correct. I shouldn't be allowed to do anything."
"You admit it?"
"Of course. This is a dangerous situation as I just indicated ...I plan to advise as per my job entails me to do so...but I need to proceed with caution. l am sure there will be events and situations that come up where I will be...forced into making a decision...but until that happens...I plan on not doing anything."
This is a bit of a lie, but generally true.
"I find that hard to believe, and I've only been around you a couple of days. You are here to help us, and I have read your profiles Mr. Young. You will do what you feel is right...no matter what the cost or consequence might be."
I grin. Beverly is incredibly perceptive. As well as smart, and beautiful too.
"I'm sure Starfleet will reprimand me when it is appropriate to do so. You're right though, I shouldn't be allowed to do anything that I am....about to. So...what's the verdict doc? How am I?"
Crusher snaps shut the medical tricorder and hands it to Alyssa Ogawa who I haven't formally been introduced to yet but she and I exchange pleasant nods to each other. Pleasant nods indeed...Adam stop.
"Well, you'll be glad to hear that your health is in the best shape it has been more than likely since you were in your early 20's. Just over three months of being in our reality, has almost totally changed your body's condition. Up on the screen is the physical Dr. Puluski conducted on you on your Arrival, before cures were implemented to all of your dermatological conditions you had prior to arriving here, and the scan I just conducted. The difference is jarring isn't it?"
"It is..."
"Before we finish giving you a check up...I wanted to talk to you about your foot."
"What about it?" I ask
"I know you discussed it briefly with Pulaski, and with the Doctor's at Starfleet, but I may have a solution for you. It will take a while, but if successful, could be a life changer for you."
"I think I know what you are gonna suggest, and I'm all ears ."
Doctor Crusher taps a button on her console and the screen switches to a rotating right foot---specifically MY foot. The screen splits again and next it to is another foot...it takes me a second to realize that it is again MY foot, but this time it's WHOLE. A normal looking foot.
"The technique that I am proposing is rare...in fact, club feet in general is rare in our time. I've been looking at the journals since I met you and there hasn't been a recorded club foot case in nearly four hundred years."
"That sounds about right. Club feet in my reality, was considered rare as well."
I was the only case in my village in England in decades and that was in 1979.
"Your case...as you know...is extreme, and unique. Almost zero cases of your type of club feet. So, with that in mind, I propose that we...give you a CLONED replacement. The idea is that I would take a DNA sample, culture it, grow it...mature it...and see if we can model a successful match. I don't foresee there being any issues with acceptance, but I want to do this right and so it's going to take a few months. IF we are successful, you would have a fully functional right foot again, with all of it's proper musculature and bone structure restored. The fact that you are walking on what you are now with two thirds of your bone and muscle GONE...is beyond incredible. What do you think?" she asks
I was asked about this at Starfleet as well. One would think this was an automatic answer in the positive...but I've been presented with options before, and have turned them all down. One of the greatest worked on me...and I am forever grateful that he has given me more time with my foot---but this...this was anticipated, expected, but still hard to digest.
"What is the recovery and rehab going to be like?" I ask nearly getting emotional
"Nothing like what it would be if you had it amputated in your time. I know that was a possibility reading your own reports on your foot. Given your ability to heal quickly...and your dedication and will---probably no more than a few weeks. I don't anticipate any issues with learning how to walk. We'd mostly be working on any balance issues there might be."
THAT makes me emotional and I start to tear up. DAMN IT. I wipe my eyes.
"Let's make it so, Doctor."
Beverly smiles at the reference, grabs a PADD and inputs some information.
"I'd like you to come in every two weeks still, so I can continue to monitor your progress. I am going to refer you to our physio department, headed by Doctor Vrana. She'll give you further or amend the exercises you're currently doing. I'd like to see you get down to about 200 prior to the surgery."
"Understood, anything else?"
"I think that just about does it for now. I'll book you in for two weeks from today at the same time. 10:00 hours."
"Gotcha Doc, thanks again."
She nods as I hop off the bio bed and head on out of sickbay.
"Mr. Young...welcome aboard the Enterprise. Welcome back." Captain Picard stands up from behind his desk and walks over to greet me as I pass through the door.
Offers me his hand and I take it. Picard has a great grip, showing his strength, but also his warmth. He offers me a seat.
I sit down.
"I read your file, and J.P. sent me the declassified parts of what you and your team were working on. It seems your time at Starfleet was put to good use?"
"Aye sir. Challenging at times, but I learned a great deal, met a lot of terrific people." I reply
"Now you're back...and itching to put to use your...abilities." The context of defining the tv knowledge still makes me cringe. They're not really abilities, everyone just calls it that now to come to some kind of acceptance of them.
"Actually sir I'm more itching to hear your answer to my uh....request. I realize it is a little unusual."
"You wish to undergo officer training...or at least some kind of escalated version of it."
"Yes sir."
"Mr. Crusher's crash course,...as you put it in your report is not really suitable for you. Commander Riker and Counsellor Troi designed that specifically for Wesley's...special attributes, I have read your psyche profile, as well as the intelligence report on you and while you would probably make a fine NCO---I'm not sure about an officer, yet." Picard replies bluntly
"Yes sir." I say...my voice betraying my disappointment
"However I will discuss this matter with Commander Riker, and Counsellor Troi ,as well by Admiral Hanson. The fact that you managed to gain Admiral Hanson's trust is grand indeed." Picard notes
"Thank you sir."
"Before we get to immediate matters. Starfleet Command has allowed me, certain latitudes in regards to how I choose to use you. This is a unique situation no other Starfleet Captain has experienced. We shall proceed with caution in this matter. I do not want you to become a...crutch. Nor do I wish for you to overstep your bounds should we have multiple successes with...what did the report call it....butterflying?" Picard asks
"Yes sir. I understand sir." I reply
"Be that with what it may, What can you tell me about our guest?" Picard asks
I finish telling Picard about Dr. Stubbs giving him as much information about the man and what happens as I can. After I'm dismissed, I saunter into Sickbay for my physical. Doctor Crusher is waiting for me at biobed one. I hop up on the bed and she begins the familiar procedure...it is a routine medical check up, nothing more.
"So how was your meeting with the Captain?" she asks as she begins running the medical tricorder up and down in front of me. I am temporarily distracted by it.
"It went fine. He welcomed me back, and we talked a bit about Dr. Stubbs."
"He seems like an interesting individual, Wesley talked almost all night about him."
"I'm not surprised. How is Wesley?"
"He seems to be doing okay. Slightly aloof, has me at arm's length, which concerns me."
"Go easy on him Doctor. He's spent a year here without his mom. There's nothing to be concerned about, nothing to push about either, he'll come around once he realizes that you are here again."
She stops scanning and looks at me.
"Is he---is he mad at me? That I left him?" she asks concerned
"You should ask him that, Doctor." I reply
"I'm asking you."
I sigh.
"All I will say, is that he has spent the last year growing up, discovering new things, having new experiences. All the things kids his age do. Things I did---well except saving the ship part. You should be very proud of the person he is becoming Doctor."
"You really don't want to tell us things that may upset us do you?" she resumes scanning me, I briefly glance at the medical monitor screen in front of us and off to the side of us is a panel with a read out of my vitals. The future is amazing.
"It's not my place to do that Doctor. I possess information about all of your futures. If I say something, anything---even something positive---it could disrupt the time stream dramatically in ways we can not possibility contemplate. I believe in actions beget consequences and my very presence should trigger serious ones. Besides which I agreed to follow the Temporal Prime Directive. It's the only thing Starfleet can reinforce on me. The DTI is not exactly I'm here either." I explain.
"What I don't understand is how they are granting you permission to...butterfly things...wouldn't that be an example of violating the Directive? Even if it was something minor, or positive?"
"That is a good question. Admiral Hansen told me that they put---"restrictions" on me, and to not get carried away. Captain Picard has been given...a strict leeway on how to use me as well. I supposed they are trusting me to use my own judgement, but you're correct. I shouldn't be allowed to do anything."
"You admit it?"
"Of course. This is a dangerous situation as I just indicated ...I plan to advise as per my job entails me to do so...but I need to proceed with caution. l am sure there will be events and situations that come up where I will be...forced into making a decision...but until that happens...I plan on not doing anything."
This is a bit of a lie, but generally true.
"I find that hard to believe, and I've only been around you a couple of days. You are here to help us, and I have read your profiles Mr. Young. You will do what you feel is right...no matter what the cost or consequence might be."
I grin. Beverly is incredibly perceptive. As well as smart, and beautiful too.
"I'm sure Starfleet will reprimand me when it is appropriate to do so. You're right though, I shouldn't be allowed to do anything that I am....about to. So...what's the verdict doc? How am I?"
Crusher snaps shut the medical tricorder and hands it to Alyssa Ogawa who I haven't formally been introduced to yet but she and I exchange pleasant nods to each other. Pleasant nods indeed...Adam stop.
"Well, you'll be glad to hear that your health is in the best shape it has been more than likely since you were in your early 20's. Just over three months of being in our reality, has almost totally changed your body's condition. Up on the screen is the physical Dr. Puluski conducted on you on your Arrival, before cures were implemented to all of your dermatological conditions you had prior to arriving here, and the scan I just conducted. The difference is jarring isn't it?"
"It is..."
"Before we finish giving you a check up...I wanted to talk to you about your foot."
"What about it?" I ask
"I know you discussed it briefly with Pulaski, and with the Doctor's at Starfleet, but I may have a solution for you. It will take a while, but if successful, could be a life changer for you."
"I think I know what you are gonna suggest, and I'm all ears ."
Doctor Crusher taps a button on her console and the screen switches to a rotating right foot---specifically MY foot. The screen splits again and next it to is another foot...it takes me a second to realize that it is again MY foot, but this time it's WHOLE. A normal looking foot.
"The technique that I am proposing is rare...in fact, club feet in general is rare in our time. I've been looking at the journals since I met you and there hasn't been a recorded club foot case in nearly four hundred years."
"That sounds about right. Club feet in my reality, was considered rare as well."
I was the only case in my village in England in decades and that was in 1979.
"Your case...as you know...is extreme, and unique. Almost zero cases of your type of club feet. So, with that in mind, I propose that we...give you a CLONED replacement. The idea is that I would take a DNA sample, culture it, grow it...mature it...and see if we can model a successful match. I don't foresee there being any issues with acceptance, but I want to do this right and so it's going to take a few months. IF we are successful, you would have a fully functional right foot again, with all of it's proper musculature and bone structure restored. The fact that you are walking on what you are now with two thirds of your bone and muscle GONE...is beyond incredible. What do you think?" she asks
I was asked about this at Starfleet as well. One would think this was an automatic answer in the positive...but I've been presented with options before, and have turned them all down. One of the greatest worked on me...and I am forever grateful that he has given me more time with my foot---but this...this was anticipated, expected, but still hard to digest.
"What is the recovery and rehab going to be like?" I ask nearly getting emotional
"Nothing like what it would be if you had it amputated in your time. I know that was a possibility reading your own reports on your foot. Given your ability to heal quickly...and your dedication and will---probably no more than a few weeks. I don't anticipate any issues with learning how to walk. We'd mostly be working on any balance issues there might be."
THAT makes me emotional and I start to tear up. DAMN IT. I wipe my eyes.
"Let's make it so, Doctor."
Beverly smiles at the reference, grabs a PADD and inputs some information.
"I'd like you to come in every two weeks still, so I can continue to monitor your progress. I am going to refer you to our physio department, headed by Doctor Vrana. She'll give you further or amend the exercises you're currently doing. I'd like to see you get down to about 200 prior to the surgery."
"Understood, anything else?"
"I think that just about does it for now. I'll book you in for two weeks from today at the same time. 10:00 hours."
"Gotcha Doc, thanks again."
She nods as I hop off the bio bed and head on out of sickbay.
Chapter Fifteen: Nanites On The Loose!
New
DarkDestroyer
The Destroyer Of Worlds
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Paramount-SkyDance Own Star Trek. For Entertainment Purposes Only. Non-Profit.
Author's Note: I am having surgery tomorrow to remove a thyroid nodule. So this will be the last chapter for a while until I'm recovered enough to continue posting. May all of you have a happy Christmas or holiday and be safe!
As I walk out of sickbay, my comm badge beeps.
"Picard to Young."
"Young here sir, go ahead."
"Mr. Young, report to the bridge please. We have a situation developing." Picard orders
Oh shit. The nanites already?
"Aye sir, I'm on my way."
I make my way to the turbolift and head to the bridge. This seems faster than in the episode, but then I've been occupied, and they ARE nanites so are incredibly fast and could have infected our systems already---look at me--OUR systems. Not even two days on board yet. The door opens and I step out of the turbolift and onto the Enterprise bridge...where I find Captain Picard, Commander Riker, Data, and Dr. Stubbs hovering over Science Station I.
"Mr. Young. What can you tell us about what is happening to the ship?" Picard asks
"The Enterprise is being infected by a science experiment gone awry, sir." I reply
"A science experiment?" Riker asks
I half smile and hesitate before answering. I don't want to rat out Wes, but this is what I'm on board for. To fix things that go awry or perhaps could be avoided altogether.
"Yes sir. I think it's best that Wesley explain what is going on...it's his experiment."
Both Picard and Riker exchange glances at each other and Riker calls Wesley to the bridge.
"Until Mr. Crusher joins us...you explain what is going on Mr. Young." Picard says starting to get annoyed at the situation
"A group of nanites have infected the ship's systems, but not just any old nanites. These are evolving and growing at a rapid pace unlike anything anyone has ever seen before."
Wesley steps onto the bridge with his little nanite tracking device and I look sheepishly at him. I'm sorry kiddo, but I'd rather you explain to them what is going on than me having to rat you out. Picard orders us into the conference room.
We all shuffle into the conference lounge and I stop short. I am about to sit down with the senior staff of the Enterprise for the very first time in a staff meeting. The moment is not lost on me. I've seen this set countless times since I was a teenager. I've seen this group of people that many times...being here is still surreal and probably always will be.
"Everything all right Mr. Young?" Riker asks and I nod
"Yes sir."
I take a spot at the end of the table across from Data and next to Deanna. Wesley begins giving his explanation about his experiment, and then apologizes at the end of it as he feels like this is his fault. Picard frowns.
"Mr. Young do you have anything to contribute?"
Before I can answer, Stubb's interrupts me and denies all the claims about the nanites. This leads into a morality discussion and I decide to confront the Doctor. My first moment...again it is not lost on me the gravity of it. I consider my words carefully.
"Doctor Stubbs. I have had the honor of reading some of your work on my way to the Enterprise, and admittedly, most of it goes over my head, but I can appreciate the situation you are in. You are on the cusp of realizing your life's work. However, your passion, your zeal...is going to cause you to do something you think is going to resolve our situation but only makes it worse. With all due respect, I highly suggest that you don't do anything, and allow the crew to figure this out. I can assure you that your experiment goes off without a hitch---but it won't if you interfere with the nanites progress."
Stubb's isn't happy.
"Captain who is...this?" he asks, really---demands.
"Doctor Paul Stubbs, I'd like you to meet our Special Civilian Consultant, Mr. Adam Christopher Young. He is here on behalf of Starfleet Command, and has full clearance levels. I suggest that you heed his advice. If I have to, I will have security take you to your quarters until the nanite situation is taken care of."
"You're not serious?"
"I am always serious." Picard adds
The conversation goes back to the nanites as Data shows us just a microcosm of them on the viewer. I confirm what we're seeing again.
"I can assure all of you that they are evolving, again, at a pace unknown to us before. I'm aware of the other times the Federation has attempted nanite experiments, the ones you witnessed Dr. Stubbs, and these are nothing like those. We can not use lethal force against them to stop this. We need to attempt to communicate with them."
"Communicate? This is preposterous!" exclaims Stubbs
"Is that even possible, Data?" Geordi asks
Data and I exchange looks as Data answers.
"In theory yes, I assume that this is what occurs within the events of the...episode?" he asks me
"Yes."
"Episode? What are you all talking about?" asks an annoyed Stubbs
"Dr. Stubbs I'd ask you to remain quiet again, if not I will ask security to remove you." Riker asks and Worf nearly smiles
"Yes. You create a program so that the nanites can interact directly with your neural net." I reply to Data
"I do not like this plan. What if they were able to take possession of the Commander?" Worf asks
"It would be a great risk. It would involve a matter of trust from the nanites." I reply and Data nods
The Captain looks at me.
"Any other suggestions?"
"None sir."
"Very well. Make it so."
Author's Note: I am having surgery tomorrow to remove a thyroid nodule. So this will be the last chapter for a while until I'm recovered enough to continue posting. May all of you have a happy Christmas or holiday and be safe!
As I walk out of sickbay, my comm badge beeps.
"Picard to Young."
"Young here sir, go ahead."
"Mr. Young, report to the bridge please. We have a situation developing." Picard orders
Oh shit. The nanites already?
"Aye sir, I'm on my way."
I make my way to the turbolift and head to the bridge. This seems faster than in the episode, but then I've been occupied, and they ARE nanites so are incredibly fast and could have infected our systems already---look at me--OUR systems. Not even two days on board yet. The door opens and I step out of the turbolift and onto the Enterprise bridge...where I find Captain Picard, Commander Riker, Data, and Dr. Stubbs hovering over Science Station I.
"Mr. Young. What can you tell us about what is happening to the ship?" Picard asks
"The Enterprise is being infected by a science experiment gone awry, sir." I reply
"A science experiment?" Riker asks
I half smile and hesitate before answering. I don't want to rat out Wes, but this is what I'm on board for. To fix things that go awry or perhaps could be avoided altogether.
"Yes sir. I think it's best that Wesley explain what is going on...it's his experiment."
Both Picard and Riker exchange glances at each other and Riker calls Wesley to the bridge.
"Until Mr. Crusher joins us...you explain what is going on Mr. Young." Picard says starting to get annoyed at the situation
"A group of nanites have infected the ship's systems, but not just any old nanites. These are evolving and growing at a rapid pace unlike anything anyone has ever seen before."
Wesley steps onto the bridge with his little nanite tracking device and I look sheepishly at him. I'm sorry kiddo, but I'd rather you explain to them what is going on than me having to rat you out. Picard orders us into the conference room.
We all shuffle into the conference lounge and I stop short. I am about to sit down with the senior staff of the Enterprise for the very first time in a staff meeting. The moment is not lost on me. I've seen this set countless times since I was a teenager. I've seen this group of people that many times...being here is still surreal and probably always will be.
"Everything all right Mr. Young?" Riker asks and I nod
"Yes sir."
I take a spot at the end of the table across from Data and next to Deanna. Wesley begins giving his explanation about his experiment, and then apologizes at the end of it as he feels like this is his fault. Picard frowns.
"Mr. Young do you have anything to contribute?"
Before I can answer, Stubb's interrupts me and denies all the claims about the nanites. This leads into a morality discussion and I decide to confront the Doctor. My first moment...again it is not lost on me the gravity of it. I consider my words carefully.
"Doctor Stubbs. I have had the honor of reading some of your work on my way to the Enterprise, and admittedly, most of it goes over my head, but I can appreciate the situation you are in. You are on the cusp of realizing your life's work. However, your passion, your zeal...is going to cause you to do something you think is going to resolve our situation but only makes it worse. With all due respect, I highly suggest that you don't do anything, and allow the crew to figure this out. I can assure you that your experiment goes off without a hitch---but it won't if you interfere with the nanites progress."
Stubb's isn't happy.
"Captain who is...this?" he asks, really---demands.
"Doctor Paul Stubbs, I'd like you to meet our Special Civilian Consultant, Mr. Adam Christopher Young. He is here on behalf of Starfleet Command, and has full clearance levels. I suggest that you heed his advice. If I have to, I will have security take you to your quarters until the nanite situation is taken care of."
"You're not serious?"
"I am always serious." Picard adds
The conversation goes back to the nanites as Data shows us just a microcosm of them on the viewer. I confirm what we're seeing again.
"I can assure all of you that they are evolving, again, at a pace unknown to us before. I'm aware of the other times the Federation has attempted nanite experiments, the ones you witnessed Dr. Stubbs, and these are nothing like those. We can not use lethal force against them to stop this. We need to attempt to communicate with them."
"Communicate? This is preposterous!" exclaims Stubbs
"Is that even possible, Data?" Geordi asks
Data and I exchange looks as Data answers.
"In theory yes, I assume that this is what occurs within the events of the...episode?" he asks me
"Yes."
"Episode? What are you all talking about?" asks an annoyed Stubbs
"Dr. Stubbs I'd ask you to remain quiet again, if not I will ask security to remove you." Riker asks and Worf nearly smiles
"Yes. You create a program so that the nanites can interact directly with your neural net." I reply to Data
"I do not like this plan. What if they were able to take possession of the Commander?" Worf asks
"It would be a great risk. It would involve a matter of trust from the nanites." I reply and Data nods
The Captain looks at me.
"Any other suggestions?"
"None sir."
"Very well. Make it so."
Chapter Sixteen: Communication Is Important
New
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Author's Note: I back home now. Surgery went very well. I'm doing well. Dealing with swelling and a very hoarse voice still and will still be for the next several weeks, but am doing great.
Data goes to work on creating the communication program...Dr. Stubbs is escorted to his quarters and ordered confined there for the duration of the attempt to talk to the nanites. Deanna goes to Stubbs to talk to him about his...hubris...while I remain on the bridge to continue to observe matters. The gamma pulse generators are on stand by if we need them. I see Wesley hovering around and head over to him.
"Hello Wesley."
"Hi Adam. It's nice to see you..."
"I know you're blaming yourself for what happened today, but don't worry. This will sort itself out. Everyone makes mistakes---especially when we're tired..." I say
"H-how...oh right. I need to learn to balance things a little better I guess."
"You'll get there. Have you spoken with your Mom yet?"
"Sort of...I was in the middle of almost telling her what happened when I kind of got angry..."
"I understand, it's been a tough year for you hasn't it? You've missed her."
"Yeah."
"Well, she's here now Wesley. Go easy on her...she loves you very much, and is very happy to be back home now."
He nods and the two of us stride towards Data to see him finish his programming. We don't go down to the computer core, since the nanites haven't counter-attacked and aren't aggressive due to Stubb's actions. Data successfully makes contact with them via the computer console and reports they continue to adapt quicker than he can anticipate. He's attempting to compensate with that. After a couple of minutes--the nanites are able to use Data as an avatar and address us directly.
"You are strange creatures..." they say slowly. Spiner's voice when he's "other characters" is so cheese it's CRINGE. Adam stop.
Captain Picard tells them that we have encountered even stranger creatures than them...and hopes that they will be able to achieve some kind of peace. I turn to him quickly.
"Ask them what they need, sir."
"What is that your people need from us?" asks Picard
"This ship is too...confining...we require...relocation." Picard turns to me
"Do you have any suggestions?"
I smile.
"I may have sir..."
With Dr. Stubbs help, the nanites are relocated to Kavis Alpha IV where they begin to create a new civilization there. Stubb's experiment is restarted and as I mentioned---goes off without a hitch.
I head to Ten Forward for the first time, and see Counsellor Troi who waves me over...Beverly is chatting with Guinan. Wesley enters, nods over to me and heads to a group of people in the corner and a young woman who he appears intimate with. I exchange a glance at Doctor Crusher and she mouths at me " Thank you." and I nod. It seems the two of them had their chat.
"Someone has had a busy first day." Deanna says
Our ordered meals are brought by the waitress.
"With Guinan's compliments to you both." she says as we thank her
"It was...exciting."
"You know not every day is going to be this exciting right?"
"I know...but even if this is what's like a fraction of the time I'm here...." I take a scoop of the mashed potatoes and eat it. Delicious.
"So...I thought you'd be interested to know that the three of us have made our decision regarding your...request."
I stop eating and wait with abated breath.
"And? What's the word?"
"After reviewing your psyche profile again, and talking amongst ourselves...it has been decided to put you on a limited training program. You mentioned Wesley's crash course...it will be similar to that but a lighter load at first. Commander Riker and I will design the curriculum and Captain Picard has decided to approve any such measures. To start it will be study heavy---we're concerned about your ability to grasp the scientific and mathematical elements---we're not so concerned about everything else. If you show us that you're able to handle this first phase--we'll proceed with a full curriculum."
"Thank you. So, so much. I promise that I won't disappoint any of you."
"I doubt that will be possible. I think you'll be more upset if you disappoint yourself. Adam....this will be...hard. Harder than you think. I remember my time at the Academy. It was the most challenging thing I've ever done. There were days where I wanted to quit...your will and determination will serve you well...but you need to be mentally prepared as well."
"I understand."
"I'm glad you enjoyed yourself. You did well today."
"Thanks. Also I've scheduled our counselling sessions for Tuesday at 14:00 hours. Does that work for you?"
"It does. I look forward to them."
We enjoy our dinner and chat for a couple of more hours before heading back to our quarters.
"I enjoyed this Counsellor."
"I told you, it's Deanna when I'm off duty. I enjoyed this as well."
"I'll see you Tuesday afternoon then. Have a good night."
I watch her leave and catch a glance from Guinan who simply similes at me. I need to make it a point to see her asap.
Author's Note: I back home now. Surgery went very well. I'm doing well. Dealing with swelling and a very hoarse voice still and will still be for the next several weeks, but am doing great.
Data goes to work on creating the communication program...Dr. Stubbs is escorted to his quarters and ordered confined there for the duration of the attempt to talk to the nanites. Deanna goes to Stubbs to talk to him about his...hubris...while I remain on the bridge to continue to observe matters. The gamma pulse generators are on stand by if we need them. I see Wesley hovering around and head over to him.
"Hello Wesley."
"Hi Adam. It's nice to see you..."
"I know you're blaming yourself for what happened today, but don't worry. This will sort itself out. Everyone makes mistakes---especially when we're tired..." I say
"H-how...oh right. I need to learn to balance things a little better I guess."
"You'll get there. Have you spoken with your Mom yet?"
"Sort of...I was in the middle of almost telling her what happened when I kind of got angry..."
"I understand, it's been a tough year for you hasn't it? You've missed her."
"Yeah."
"Well, she's here now Wesley. Go easy on her...she loves you very much, and is very happy to be back home now."
He nods and the two of us stride towards Data to see him finish his programming. We don't go down to the computer core, since the nanites haven't counter-attacked and aren't aggressive due to Stubb's actions. Data successfully makes contact with them via the computer console and reports they continue to adapt quicker than he can anticipate. He's attempting to compensate with that. After a couple of minutes--the nanites are able to use Data as an avatar and address us directly.
"You are strange creatures..." they say slowly. Spiner's voice when he's "other characters" is so cheese it's CRINGE. Adam stop.
Captain Picard tells them that we have encountered even stranger creatures than them...and hopes that they will be able to achieve some kind of peace. I turn to him quickly.
"Ask them what they need, sir."
"What is that your people need from us?" asks Picard
"This ship is too...confining...we require...relocation." Picard turns to me
"Do you have any suggestions?"
I smile.
"I may have sir..."
With Dr. Stubbs help, the nanites are relocated to Kavis Alpha IV where they begin to create a new civilization there. Stubb's experiment is restarted and as I mentioned---goes off without a hitch.
I head to Ten Forward for the first time, and see Counsellor Troi who waves me over...Beverly is chatting with Guinan. Wesley enters, nods over to me and heads to a group of people in the corner and a young woman who he appears intimate with. I exchange a glance at Doctor Crusher and she mouths at me " Thank you." and I nod. It seems the two of them had their chat.
"Someone has had a busy first day." Deanna says
Our ordered meals are brought by the waitress.
"With Guinan's compliments to you both." she says as we thank her
"It was...exciting."
"You know not every day is going to be this exciting right?"
"I know...but even if this is what's like a fraction of the time I'm here...." I take a scoop of the mashed potatoes and eat it. Delicious.
"So...I thought you'd be interested to know that the three of us have made our decision regarding your...request."
I stop eating and wait with abated breath.
"And? What's the word?"
"After reviewing your psyche profile again, and talking amongst ourselves...it has been decided to put you on a limited training program. You mentioned Wesley's crash course...it will be similar to that but a lighter load at first. Commander Riker and I will design the curriculum and Captain Picard has decided to approve any such measures. To start it will be study heavy---we're concerned about your ability to grasp the scientific and mathematical elements---we're not so concerned about everything else. If you show us that you're able to handle this first phase--we'll proceed with a full curriculum."
"Thank you. So, so much. I promise that I won't disappoint any of you."
"I doubt that will be possible. I think you'll be more upset if you disappoint yourself. Adam....this will be...hard. Harder than you think. I remember my time at the Academy. It was the most challenging thing I've ever done. There were days where I wanted to quit...your will and determination will serve you well...but you need to be mentally prepared as well."
"I understand."
"I'm glad you enjoyed yourself. You did well today."
"Thanks. Also I've scheduled our counselling sessions for Tuesday at 14:00 hours. Does that work for you?"
"It does. I look forward to them."
We enjoy our dinner and chat for a couple of more hours before heading back to our quarters.
"I enjoyed this Counsellor."
"I told you, it's Deanna when I'm off duty. I enjoyed this as well."
"I'll see you Tuesday afternoon then. Have a good night."
I watch her leave and catch a glance from Guinan who simply similes at me. I need to make it a point to see her asap.
Chapter Seventeen: Guinan
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After Dr. Stubb's departs the Enterprise, and the nanites have been checked on that all is well with them in their new home, a welcome home party is thrown for Doctor Crusher in Ten Forward. I attend of course, dressed in my casual clothing that still gets glances from crewmembers and civilians alike. I REFUSE to wear clothing from this century until I'm forced to do so. It's sooooo tacky. Another reason why I prefer B5 to Star Trek in terms of fashion---at least JMS tried to make an effort to have fashion be realistic. Anyway I digress.
The atmosphere is jovial. Everyone but the Captain is present, he's still dealing with administrative details after the whole nanite situation, and will be here later on. Stellar cartography is all a buzz with Dr. Stubb's experiment...which as I mentioned I have only a rudimentary understanding of but no doubt it is spectacular. I see Geordi mingling with Sonya Gomez at a table. They both nod to me and I nod back. Commander Riker is chatting up B.G. Robinson which I make a note of. Wes is with that woman---still don't know her name since he hasn't introduced her, she was a blonde civilian I believe. Deanna and Beverly are sitting together chatting. I acknowledge them, while I head to the bar and Guinan greets me for the first time.
"Hello Guinian."
"What can I get you...Adam?"
Guinan. It's Guinan...in the flesh. Whoopi. Wearing her purple robe.
"I'll have an IPA please Guinan. It's nice to finally meet you---no it's an honor."
Guinan smiles that smile...this---this will never ever get old. Meeting your heroes in the flesh.
"I have over a dozen IPA's on tap...synthehol, and the real deal. What's your poison?"
"Whatever craft beer you have is great Guinan thank you."
She hands me the glass that looks like a beaker and I sip it...it's quite good. Real beer so I need to be careful.
"So...a reality hopper. I am told that you arrived last year shortly after our encounter with the Borg."
"That's right. I apologize that I haven't had a chance to speak with you sooner---but things have been a whirlwind."
"I figure you'd have come to see me when you had the chance. What do you think of all of this so far?"
"Philosophically or like in a general sense?"
"Generally speaking."
"It's both thrilling and overwhelming at the same time. Nearly every day I have a new experience that I otherwise wouldn't have...I'm still trying to adjust to this being...real."
"Yet you have. Remarkably so."
I look at her for a second. Right into her eyes and she allows me to. I am aware that I am having a conversation with an El-Aurian.
"You know...don't you? That I know? I know everything...almost."
" I know you know most things about me yes. You don't know everything though---not even my 23 husbands knew everything about me. "
We both laugh.
"So what do you think...about what I should or shouldn't do while I'm here?" I ask her
"I don't know you...yet. However in the little time that you've been on board the ship, you've made friends with key senior officers...conducted yourself in a professional manner, and are working diligently to gain Captain Picard's trust."
"Damn, you are good."
"As you know...I listen...and watch. I have known Jean-Luc Picard for a very long time. I am here as you are well aware because he trusts me, the two of us have an understanding. I also know how hard it is for the man to trust---he doesn't do so easily. However---there's something about you---you'll do the right thing. At least you think you will be doing the right thing."
"Is there any reason to believe that I am a danger to the ship or the crew?" I ask her
"If I believed that--Captain Picard would not have agreed to bring you back." she answers with a smile and I blanch
"You...you convinced him to have me back?." she nods slyly
"Guinan...have the two of us met before?" I ask
"Spoilers." she says deadpan but with a twinkle in her eye.
"H...how?" I ask. It isn't everyday someone shocks me, genuinely, but Guinan has done so just now. This should be impossible.
"That is for you to still figure out. I made a promise, and I keep my promises." she says still smiling
Those are my words. WHAT? About making promises. I use them when I make a promise to someone I care deeply about. WHAT?
"You convinced him to have me back based on a prior meeting the two of us had...that should be impossible. Even more impossible than me being here in the first place...also you just told me that you didn't know me..."
"I said that I don't know you...yet."
Wait. Are these Picard spoilers? My mind is wheeling right now. She hands me another beer. I gulp half of it real fast. Screw being careful.
"All I will say is that I know you were supposed to be here. I don't know why any more than you do. If I had any feeling that you may pose a threat, I wouldn't have vouched for you to Picard."
"I won't let you regret this decision Guinan, ever."
She just smiles. She knows. She knows how I evolve in this timeline, this reality. I'm absolutely bamboozled and in awe. I swear I see stars in her eyes. It could be the beer.
"I believe that you won't either. Enjoy the rest of the evening Adam, and if you ever need anyone to talk to---I'm always around."
I nod. Whoa.
After Dr. Stubb's departs the Enterprise, and the nanites have been checked on that all is well with them in their new home, a welcome home party is thrown for Doctor Crusher in Ten Forward. I attend of course, dressed in my casual clothing that still gets glances from crewmembers and civilians alike. I REFUSE to wear clothing from this century until I'm forced to do so. It's sooooo tacky. Another reason why I prefer B5 to Star Trek in terms of fashion---at least JMS tried to make an effort to have fashion be realistic. Anyway I digress.
The atmosphere is jovial. Everyone but the Captain is present, he's still dealing with administrative details after the whole nanite situation, and will be here later on. Stellar cartography is all a buzz with Dr. Stubb's experiment...which as I mentioned I have only a rudimentary understanding of but no doubt it is spectacular. I see Geordi mingling with Sonya Gomez at a table. They both nod to me and I nod back. Commander Riker is chatting up B.G. Robinson which I make a note of. Wes is with that woman---still don't know her name since he hasn't introduced her, she was a blonde civilian I believe. Deanna and Beverly are sitting together chatting. I acknowledge them, while I head to the bar and Guinan greets me for the first time.
"Hello Guinian."
"What can I get you...Adam?"
Guinan. It's Guinan...in the flesh. Whoopi. Wearing her purple robe.
"I'll have an IPA please Guinan. It's nice to finally meet you---no it's an honor."
Guinan smiles that smile...this---this will never ever get old. Meeting your heroes in the flesh.
"I have over a dozen IPA's on tap...synthehol, and the real deal. What's your poison?"
"Whatever craft beer you have is great Guinan thank you."
She hands me the glass that looks like a beaker and I sip it...it's quite good. Real beer so I need to be careful.
"So...a reality hopper. I am told that you arrived last year shortly after our encounter with the Borg."
"That's right. I apologize that I haven't had a chance to speak with you sooner---but things have been a whirlwind."
"I figure you'd have come to see me when you had the chance. What do you think of all of this so far?"
"Philosophically or like in a general sense?"
"Generally speaking."
"It's both thrilling and overwhelming at the same time. Nearly every day I have a new experience that I otherwise wouldn't have...I'm still trying to adjust to this being...real."
"Yet you have. Remarkably so."
I look at her for a second. Right into her eyes and she allows me to. I am aware that I am having a conversation with an El-Aurian.
"You know...don't you? That I know? I know everything...almost."
" I know you know most things about me yes. You don't know everything though---not even my 23 husbands knew everything about me. "
We both laugh.
"So what do you think...about what I should or shouldn't do while I'm here?" I ask her
"I don't know you...yet. However in the little time that you've been on board the ship, you've made friends with key senior officers...conducted yourself in a professional manner, and are working diligently to gain Captain Picard's trust."
"Damn, you are good."
"As you know...I listen...and watch. I have known Jean-Luc Picard for a very long time. I am here as you are well aware because he trusts me, the two of us have an understanding. I also know how hard it is for the man to trust---he doesn't do so easily. However---there's something about you---you'll do the right thing. At least you think you will be doing the right thing."
"Is there any reason to believe that I am a danger to the ship or the crew?" I ask her
"If I believed that--Captain Picard would not have agreed to bring you back." she answers with a smile and I blanch
"You...you convinced him to have me back?." she nods slyly
"Guinan...have the two of us met before?" I ask
"Spoilers." she says deadpan but with a twinkle in her eye.
"H...how?" I ask. It isn't everyday someone shocks me, genuinely, but Guinan has done so just now. This should be impossible.
"That is for you to still figure out. I made a promise, and I keep my promises." she says still smiling
Those are my words. WHAT? About making promises. I use them when I make a promise to someone I care deeply about. WHAT?
"You convinced him to have me back based on a prior meeting the two of us had...that should be impossible. Even more impossible than me being here in the first place...also you just told me that you didn't know me..."
"I said that I don't know you...yet."
Wait. Are these Picard spoilers? My mind is wheeling right now. She hands me another beer. I gulp half of it real fast. Screw being careful.
"All I will say is that I know you were supposed to be here. I don't know why any more than you do. If I had any feeling that you may pose a threat, I wouldn't have vouched for you to Picard."
"I won't let you regret this decision Guinan, ever."
She just smiles. She knows. She knows how I evolve in this timeline, this reality. I'm absolutely bamboozled and in awe. I swear I see stars in her eyes. It could be the beer.
"I believe that you won't either. Enjoy the rest of the evening Adam, and if you ever need anyone to talk to---I'm always around."
I nod. Whoa.
Chapter 17: Back to School
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I am still dealing with my conversation with Guinan. I meet her younger self in the past---in 2024. HOW is that even possible? I still don't understand how I am here, and I just learned that I am going to be HERE for a very long time...my head starts to hurt. I shake it off though as I beep Commander Riker's door chime and he tells me to enter. That will never get old for me. Hearing those sound effects. I step into his quarters and it's exactly like it is on the show. This is surreal-- He is sitting at his desk and his little monitor is open, he's touching the mouse thing.
"Mr. Young, have a seat."
There's a chair on the other side of the desk which I don't remember being in the series. He turns his lap top around to face me.
"Counsellor Troi and I have come up with a partial program for you to start with. This contains the basic core curriculum that every aspiring cadet takes in year one. Every single officer on this ship took the courses on the screen. These are all 101's. You'd be expected to get a passing grade on ALL of them. Failure on any one of them...you wash out."
I look at the course list.
"Admin 101 and 110, Starfleet Operations, Chain of Command and General Orders. Diplomacy 101. Engineering basic courses---This is basic?"
Riker grins that Frakes grin.
"Yep."
Languages, Law, Mathematics 101: Concepts, Physics 101: Concepts, Survival 101/110 ( I remember this from Sea Cadet Camp and hated survival training). I'm guessing this will involve the holodeck, a place I've not spent any time in really yet. The rest of the list is pretty standard stuff. The most difficult stuff for me is going to be the math and physics.
"So you think you can handle this load? I will be overseeing your progress and grading your performances as I do with Mr. Crusher. If you need one, I can recommend a tutor or two." he grins again
"This is going to be tough...but I need to know that I can do this."
Riker nods understanding.
"I'll forward you this to your terminal in your quarters along with a schedule. Right now I think you can probably handle a 12 hour day...I'll balance out some of the courses. NOT all of these will be done at once...you'll be doing a rotation of six on a three month basis, and we'll adjust that based on how you do."
"Understood."
"This will start on Monday...so you have until then to prepare for it."
"Aye sir."
"Good luck Mr. Young. I hope you do well."
"So do I sir, so do I."
I desperately want to ask him about B.G. Robinson but probably not an appropriate thing to say or do right now when he's giving me my course list.
"Is that all sir?"
"It is. A bit of advice, Mr. Young?"
"Of course."
"Enjoy it. Not just the courses, but all of this. However you came to be here, you are here. You've been given something that no other human has experienced before in recorded history---that makes you unique. It makes THIS experience SPECIAL. Try to have fun while you're here."
I smile now and relax.
"I will sir. It's still...mind blowing. I can't believe any of this is happening. Counsellor Troi thinks I've been adapting well so far, so did Counsellor Xing at Starfleet, they've been worried that I might develop some kind of...what was the word? Depersonalization...but I'm mostly just mind boggled about everything. It is difficult to accept that this is...my home now."
Riker nods.
"You're a real life Captain America, Mr. Young. A fish out of water sort to speak. It will take you time to adjust, but you will. We've all read your profile, you wouldn't be on this ship if we didn't think you could handle it."
That reminds me of something. I should have thought of them before, when I got to Earth.
"I do have a question sir, I just thought of."
"Yes?"
"The people you revived from cryo stasis just before the Romulans remerged...was there ever any follow up done on them?"
Riker leans back in his chair and tugs the bottom of his uniform, starts to stroke his beard.
"If I recall correctly, the former businessman, Offenhouse was special attaché to the Ferengi Alliance and helped facilitate the recent trade deals with them. He was heavily involved in the recent Slug O'Cola announcement. Clemonds is a singer of some note...and Clare...the last I heard she had tracked down her family in Indianapolis. "
I nod.
"You thinking of contacting them?"
"They're the only others who are like me...I should have thought about them when I first arrived...but everything's been a roller coaster. They're the only ones who might understand what I'm going through right now."
Riker nods
"I understand, just be careful Mr. Young. Go slow with everything."
"Aye sir."
I turn and leave. Offenhouse becoming involved in Ferengi affairs makes me giggle.
I am still dealing with my conversation with Guinan. I meet her younger self in the past---in 2024. HOW is that even possible? I still don't understand how I am here, and I just learned that I am going to be HERE for a very long time...my head starts to hurt. I shake it off though as I beep Commander Riker's door chime and he tells me to enter. That will never get old for me. Hearing those sound effects. I step into his quarters and it's exactly like it is on the show. This is surreal-- He is sitting at his desk and his little monitor is open, he's touching the mouse thing.
"Mr. Young, have a seat."
There's a chair on the other side of the desk which I don't remember being in the series. He turns his lap top around to face me.
"Counsellor Troi and I have come up with a partial program for you to start with. This contains the basic core curriculum that every aspiring cadet takes in year one. Every single officer on this ship took the courses on the screen. These are all 101's. You'd be expected to get a passing grade on ALL of them. Failure on any one of them...you wash out."
I look at the course list.
"Admin 101 and 110, Starfleet Operations, Chain of Command and General Orders. Diplomacy 101. Engineering basic courses---This is basic?"
Riker grins that Frakes grin.
"Yep."
Languages, Law, Mathematics 101: Concepts, Physics 101: Concepts, Survival 101/110 ( I remember this from Sea Cadet Camp and hated survival training). I'm guessing this will involve the holodeck, a place I've not spent any time in really yet. The rest of the list is pretty standard stuff. The most difficult stuff for me is going to be the math and physics.
"So you think you can handle this load? I will be overseeing your progress and grading your performances as I do with Mr. Crusher. If you need one, I can recommend a tutor or two." he grins again
"This is going to be tough...but I need to know that I can do this."
Riker nods understanding.
"I'll forward you this to your terminal in your quarters along with a schedule. Right now I think you can probably handle a 12 hour day...I'll balance out some of the courses. NOT all of these will be done at once...you'll be doing a rotation of six on a three month basis, and we'll adjust that based on how you do."
"Understood."
"This will start on Monday...so you have until then to prepare for it."
"Aye sir."
"Good luck Mr. Young. I hope you do well."
"So do I sir, so do I."
I desperately want to ask him about B.G. Robinson but probably not an appropriate thing to say or do right now when he's giving me my course list.
"Is that all sir?"
"It is. A bit of advice, Mr. Young?"
"Of course."
"Enjoy it. Not just the courses, but all of this. However you came to be here, you are here. You've been given something that no other human has experienced before in recorded history---that makes you unique. It makes THIS experience SPECIAL. Try to have fun while you're here."
I smile now and relax.
"I will sir. It's still...mind blowing. I can't believe any of this is happening. Counsellor Troi thinks I've been adapting well so far, so did Counsellor Xing at Starfleet, they've been worried that I might develop some kind of...what was the word? Depersonalization...but I'm mostly just mind boggled about everything. It is difficult to accept that this is...my home now."
Riker nods.
"You're a real life Captain America, Mr. Young. A fish out of water sort to speak. It will take you time to adjust, but you will. We've all read your profile, you wouldn't be on this ship if we didn't think you could handle it."
That reminds me of something. I should have thought of them before, when I got to Earth.
"I do have a question sir, I just thought of."
"Yes?"
"The people you revived from cryo stasis just before the Romulans remerged...was there ever any follow up done on them?"
Riker leans back in his chair and tugs the bottom of his uniform, starts to stroke his beard.
"If I recall correctly, the former businessman, Offenhouse was special attaché to the Ferengi Alliance and helped facilitate the recent trade deals with them. He was heavily involved in the recent Slug O'Cola announcement. Clemonds is a singer of some note...and Clare...the last I heard she had tracked down her family in Indianapolis. "
I nod.
"You thinking of contacting them?"
"They're the only others who are like me...I should have thought about them when I first arrived...but everything's been a roller coaster. They're the only ones who might understand what I'm going through right now."
Riker nods
"I understand, just be careful Mr. Young. Go slow with everything."
"Aye sir."
I turn and leave. Offenhouse becoming involved in Ferengi affairs makes me giggle.
Chapter 18: People Watching
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I attempted to make contact with the three...sleepers, but was unsuccessful. Offenhouse is still off world, and I left a message with his secretary---because of course he already has himself a secretary or assistant. I make a point to invest in Slug O'Cola as well. Clemonds is on a big galactic tour---his first. His manager said she would tell him about me, and Clare's family didn't answer. So I will make another attempt. The next few days are busy as I delve into my studies. Most of my day is occupied with study, which I don't mind. It means I have mostly peace. So far my favourite courses are the Starfleet ones. Learning how things work is one of my FAVOURITE things in the world, so this is like the ultimate nerd stuff right now for me. I absorb information like a Spongebob---err sponge. My off time is the evening time, or Charlie Shift as it is known here. Data has assumed command of the ship as Captain Picard has ends his daily shift and the ship lights dim as we're in evening time. It is my favourite time of the day. Most of the senior staff are off right now. I have taken to spending most of my time in Ten Forward. As a people watcher, it's the best place to hang out and see what the vibe of the ship is on any given day. No wonder this was given to Guinan---it's a perfect place to watch---and listen. Aside from the bridge and Main Engineering, which are buzz points, this really is the heart of the ship. EVERYONE comes to Ten Forward to wind down or just hang out with each other at some point during the day. It's nearly ALWAYS busy here. Guinan has quite the staff too as I've learned. About six waiters that roam around the room every once in a while.
I have been invited to attend Data's violin concerto...if I remember correctly, they're playing the "Allegro" from Mozart's "Eine..." I accept knowing Data's hesitation and Picard's encouragement, and the fact that it gets interrupted. It is a string quartet that he's apart of. I look around the room and observe everyone talking in their various clusters. Couples. Groups. Friends. The buzz is amazing. It is simply amazing being here. I can not over stress how much I am loving being here, but how overwhelming it is as well. I spot Diana Giddings sitting with a group of medical personnel and engineering staff. Sonya is there and waves at me. I wave back. I'm becoming a bit of an oddity here now as officers begin to recognize the mysterious "Special Civilian Advisor". Diana catches my eye and smiles and I nod back at her. I take a swig of my beer. I then see a blue uniform suddenly stand in front of me. I glance up and it is Dr. Selar with a PAAD.
"Mr. Young." she states
"Dr. Selar...what can I do for you?" I ask as I stand up
"Doctor Crusher asked me to give you this. It is a full list detailing all of the exercises she discussed with you prior, as well as the nutritional plan you agreed on with her."
I take the grey tablet like device and look at it.
"This checks out...but isn't this a nurse thing?" I ask her. Selar locks her hands behind her back, I watch for a reaction, but she doesn't give me any. No sell. Like a Vulcan.
"Normally yes, however..."
"However you have been curious about me ever since that first examination last year and wanted to...examine me yourself?" I ask rather cheekily. Don't push things Adam. You don't know her at all.
She arches her eyebrow and nods.
"That is an adequate if crude assessment, yes. May I join you, Mr. Young?" she asks
"I thought you'd never ask, please sit."
Selar sits
"Anything to drink?" I ask
"I will have a Raktajino." she replies, naturally being a medical professional.
A waiter comes by and I ask for another beer, and a Raktajino for Selar. So...this is interesting.
"So...how may I...satisfy your curiosity Dr. Selar?"
I interlock my fingers
"I would ask permission to observe your daily duties. I realize this is an unusual request. I have read all your profiles. I find you to be, most fascinating. Unlike anyone else on this vessel." she states
It is my turn to eyebrow arch now, which I botch horribly as usual. This is indeed unusual, but I'm curious as hell now...
"What would be the exact nature of these...observations? Are you asking me out or something?" I'm genuinely confused
"This is purely scientific interest I assure you. I would be observing your daily routines, ask you questions..."
I hold up my hand.
"Okay, slow down. I'm all for science, but I'm not a guinea pig. I already went through this deal for three weeks straight at Starfleet Command, and I didn't like it. I understand your intent, but have no interest in having you be a silent observer with my daily routines. If you want to sit down and talk to me about my experiences back in my reality or whatever, great. If you want to have dinner...I'll make you my lemon pasta, but I am afraid that I'm not interested in being...watched...just to satisfy someone's curiosity. Been there, done that."
Selar takes this in stride and then surprises me.
"Your offer of dinner intrigues me. I would accept that."
"Oh. Okay. Um....how about tomorrow night, 20:00 hours, uh, my quarters?"
I'm frankly not used to...being accepted. Let's leave it at that.
"That is acceptable."
We then have small talk for a little while longer before she gets up and leaves. I watch her as she strides out of Ten Forward.
"Vulcans..." I Mutter
Next Up: FIRST MISSION!
I attempted to make contact with the three...sleepers, but was unsuccessful. Offenhouse is still off world, and I left a message with his secretary---because of course he already has himself a secretary or assistant. I make a point to invest in Slug O'Cola as well. Clemonds is on a big galactic tour---his first. His manager said she would tell him about me, and Clare's family didn't answer. So I will make another attempt. The next few days are busy as I delve into my studies. Most of my day is occupied with study, which I don't mind. It means I have mostly peace. So far my favourite courses are the Starfleet ones. Learning how things work is one of my FAVOURITE things in the world, so this is like the ultimate nerd stuff right now for me. I absorb information like a Spongebob---err sponge. My off time is the evening time, or Charlie Shift as it is known here. Data has assumed command of the ship as Captain Picard has ends his daily shift and the ship lights dim as we're in evening time. It is my favourite time of the day. Most of the senior staff are off right now. I have taken to spending most of my time in Ten Forward. As a people watcher, it's the best place to hang out and see what the vibe of the ship is on any given day. No wonder this was given to Guinan---it's a perfect place to watch---and listen. Aside from the bridge and Main Engineering, which are buzz points, this really is the heart of the ship. EVERYONE comes to Ten Forward to wind down or just hang out with each other at some point during the day. It's nearly ALWAYS busy here. Guinan has quite the staff too as I've learned. About six waiters that roam around the room every once in a while.
I have been invited to attend Data's violin concerto...if I remember correctly, they're playing the "Allegro" from Mozart's "Eine..." I accept knowing Data's hesitation and Picard's encouragement, and the fact that it gets interrupted. It is a string quartet that he's apart of. I look around the room and observe everyone talking in their various clusters. Couples. Groups. Friends. The buzz is amazing. It is simply amazing being here. I can not over stress how much I am loving being here, but how overwhelming it is as well. I spot Diana Giddings sitting with a group of medical personnel and engineering staff. Sonya is there and waves at me. I wave back. I'm becoming a bit of an oddity here now as officers begin to recognize the mysterious "Special Civilian Advisor". Diana catches my eye and smiles and I nod back at her. I take a swig of my beer. I then see a blue uniform suddenly stand in front of me. I glance up and it is Dr. Selar with a PAAD.
"Mr. Young." she states
"Dr. Selar...what can I do for you?" I ask as I stand up
"Doctor Crusher asked me to give you this. It is a full list detailing all of the exercises she discussed with you prior, as well as the nutritional plan you agreed on with her."
I take the grey tablet like device and look at it.
"This checks out...but isn't this a nurse thing?" I ask her. Selar locks her hands behind her back, I watch for a reaction, but she doesn't give me any. No sell. Like a Vulcan.
"Normally yes, however..."
"However you have been curious about me ever since that first examination last year and wanted to...examine me yourself?" I ask rather cheekily. Don't push things Adam. You don't know her at all.
She arches her eyebrow and nods.
"That is an adequate if crude assessment, yes. May I join you, Mr. Young?" she asks
"I thought you'd never ask, please sit."
Selar sits
"Anything to drink?" I ask
"I will have a Raktajino." she replies, naturally being a medical professional.
A waiter comes by and I ask for another beer, and a Raktajino for Selar. So...this is interesting.
"So...how may I...satisfy your curiosity Dr. Selar?"
I interlock my fingers
"I would ask permission to observe your daily duties. I realize this is an unusual request. I have read all your profiles. I find you to be, most fascinating. Unlike anyone else on this vessel." she states
It is my turn to eyebrow arch now, which I botch horribly as usual. This is indeed unusual, but I'm curious as hell now...
"What would be the exact nature of these...observations? Are you asking me out or something?" I'm genuinely confused
"This is purely scientific interest I assure you. I would be observing your daily routines, ask you questions..."
I hold up my hand.
"Okay, slow down. I'm all for science, but I'm not a guinea pig. I already went through this deal for three weeks straight at Starfleet Command, and I didn't like it. I understand your intent, but have no interest in having you be a silent observer with my daily routines. If you want to sit down and talk to me about my experiences back in my reality or whatever, great. If you want to have dinner...I'll make you my lemon pasta, but I am afraid that I'm not interested in being...watched...just to satisfy someone's curiosity. Been there, done that."
Selar takes this in stride and then surprises me.
"Your offer of dinner intrigues me. I would accept that."
"Oh. Okay. Um....how about tomorrow night, 20:00 hours, uh, my quarters?"
I'm frankly not used to...being accepted. Let's leave it at that.
"That is acceptable."
We then have small talk for a little while longer before she gets up and leaves. I watch her as she strides out of Ten Forward.
"Vulcans..." I Mutter
Next Up: FIRST MISSION!
Chapter 19: First Mission
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I enter my quarters and toss off my boots and take off my jacket and toss it on the back of my desk chair and plop down face first on the sofa---like Venkmen in "Ghostbusters II'.
I've been back two months, and already am exhausted. It is late Feburary 2366...the business with the Shielak was a few weeks ago. Captain Picard was confounded by them as most diplomats have been for decades...until I decided to put him out of his misery and suggest recommending a third party mediator to resolve their issue, which was buying the colonists more time to evacuate. I briefly considered dealing with the colonists but thought better of that...I'm not equipped to handle situations like that at all. Picard comes to that conclusion himself, but that saved him hours of studying which I think he was grateful for.
My sessions with Deanna have been...helpful. We talk about everything basically...or as much as I allow. She's discovered my "personal shields" now. She knows that I have barriers up and has been very quietly trying to break them down, I know it's Deanna Troi...I know I can trust her, but I've never been good at confiding in others---it's always the other way around. Deanna's also discovered my empathic side---I don't have full on "abilities" like she does---but I do sense powerful emotions and they do affect me. Selar and I have started...dating? Courting definitely. I don't have anything else except my relationship with Elizabeth to compare it to so it's the strangest and also the best thing that's happened. Selar is absolutely fascinating as one would expect to discover. We talk for hours. About everything, and anything. I never thought I'd be courting a Vulcan. It is interesting because I found out that Selar has an elder brother named Voltak---in this reality, but in the novels, Voltak was her first husband who died during a freak Pon'Farr bonding session went awry. He is still an archeologist and often is off world, they have little communication with one another. Her parents...T'Prya and Voltik work at one of the Vulcan rehabilitation center's. She was born in the city of Raal. She has taken a fascination in me that I wasn't anticipating. I bluntly asked about Pon'Farr...and Selar stated that she last experienced Pon'Farr in 2361...so the next time won't be for two years. So she's genuinely curious about me. I am satisfied with that for now.
The studying has been...exhausting. 12 hours a day, five days a week. I have the weekends off. Wes has offered to help tutor me and I accepted his offer. Just as I am about to pass out---
"Crusher to Young."
"Young here, go ahead Doctor."
"Adam can you please report to Sickbay--something's wrong with Deanna."
I suddenly hear Help Meeeeee!
Oh shit. Uxbridge.
Kevin Uxbridge...I haven't thought about this episode in a LONG fucking time. I enter sickbay and Deanna is screaming. Riker is there. Crusher and Ogawa are trying to stabilize her. Riker looks at me with an expression on his face I've never seen before---horror. I share it but I try and compose myself.
"What's her status?" I ask, almost command
"Counsellor Troi reported having headaches a few hours ago. I ended up giving her a general analgesic for it...but it seems to have increased in intensity and two hours ago she came in---like this."
"Do you know what's happening to her Adam?" Will asks
"I'm afraid that I do, sir." I tap my comm badge
"Young to Captain Picard."
"Picard here go ahead."
" I am in sickbay with Counsellor Troi---I know what is causing her ailment and how to resolve it. I request permission to accompany you down to the planet surface."
There's a pause.
"For what purpose?" Picard asks
"Have we already made contact with the Uxbridges sir?"
"We have, yes. They have refused to beam up to the Enterprise---there was an--"
"I'm sorry sir but that ship is an illusion...as is Rishon herself. The problem is Kevin, and I think I may know how to resolve it, with your permission of course."
Deanna wails. If you can hear me Deanna, everything will be okay soon. I promise you.
"Very well, report to Transporter Room 3."
"Aye sir."
I look at the others with determined purpose. This universe is restoring my confidence.
"This will be over shortly. I promise." and I head out of sickbay and walk towards the transporter room.
I head into the Transporter Room where Captain Picard is there as is Worf looking concerned. Miles is tending the console. I haven't formally met him yet, which I need to make a point of doing soon.
"We won't need phasers sir, even as a precaution."
"I INSIST. " growls Worf and hands us both one of them. My phaser training has started as of a couple of days ago. I'm still getting used to holding a REAL phaser. He gives me a holster and I clip it on to my pants.
"I agree with Mr. Worf, you may know what situation we're going into Mr. Young, but I don't...and if this goes badly..."
"I understand sir. Thank you Worf." he nods
"What is your plan Mr. Young?" Picard asks
"Simple enough really...Uxbridge is an alien called an Douwd...he possesses tremendous psychic abilities---that is what is causing Deanna to experience her headaches. He's using some kind of psychic dampener device to block her empathy---I think it does something to increase pain every time she attempts to use it, even as a defense mechanism. He's...experienced a great deal of tragedy and is punishing himself for his...crimes. We need to convince him to lift the dampener and make him a promise that he'll be left alone...he wants to be punished--he'll ask you to do it---but that's not what we do--so the next best thing is to promise him that he'll be left alone and that this place will be quarantined."
"Very well. Your first away mission then Mr. Young."
"Aye sir."
"Nervous?"
"A little bit."
"Just follow my lead and you'll be fine."
"Aye sir."
"Energize Mr. O'Brien."
I'll never get used to the sensation nor the physics of transportation, nor do I want to discuss it at all. Picard and I touch down on the planet's surface and it looks exactly like it does from the episode. This is Talosian or Species 8472 level of bamboozlement. It is extremely impressive, right down to cellular levels. He probably knows that we're approaching. I stand beside Captain Picard and brace myself. I wasn't kidding. I am nervous as fuck right now. I have no idea if this is gonna work and phasers are for sure aren't gonna help us much if this goes south. There is HIGH potential for getting TOSSED.
We approach the house...again all the detail is incredible. I'm still trying to focus on the job at hand and remind myself that I am now apart of this, not merely an observer. I have responsibilities to myself and to Captain Picard. Picard knocks on the door and to his surprise, Rishon answers, and invites us in for tea. I am introduced and immediately Kevin becomes hostile but I wave my hand to Picard telling him that I have this.
"Mr. Uxbridge...my name is Adam Christopher Young, I am a Special Civilian Consultant attached to the Enterprise. I only intervene on behalf the Captain under certain special situations like this one. I am...aware of your---secret---your burden. I know what and why you've done all this, and I ask that you relieve our friend of her pain."
"How could you possibly know...ah. You're a reality hopper."
"Yes sir. I know what you've done, the pain that you are in, and what you want the Captain to do...but you must know deep down that we can't do any of that. We can't act as your judge, jury, and executioner....I think punishment enough is that you remain here, left alone---and I can assure you that you will undisturbed while you are here. But our friend is in great pain, and only you can remove the dampener you're using to block her empathic and telepathic receptors."
Uxbridge looks at me like I'm an alien...and he wouldn't be wrong. Uxbridge then turns to Captain Picard.
"I am sorry---I tried to lure you away---so that you wouldn't discover the truth."
"Mr. Young is correct, sir. The Federation is not qualified to judge you, much less humanity as a whole...however I can make it so that you aren't disturbed if that is what you want. We just ask that you help our friend."
It is interesting the dialogue isn't exact all the time. I wonder what is altering it other than my memory? Rishon vanished quicker than in the show as well. Is this already some kind of effect of my butterflying? The universe adjusting and correcting things as I...influence them?
The three of us beam aboard the Enterprise and Kevin removes the block from Deanna's head...and has his conversation with Doctor Crusher in his quarters. Picard is as good as his word as he contacts Starfleet and requests that Rana IV be placed in quarantine and reinforced with defensive buoys which are deployed before we depart the planet.
A little bit later on I visit Deanna in her quarters, she's still resting in her bed. She looks lovely...compose yourself fool. Deanna smiles as she sees me enter her room.
"I just wanted to check on you."
"Thank you."
"You're more than welcome Counsellor...I heard you...I'm sorry that I didn't respond to this sooner..."
"You are going to make mistakes attempting to butterfly things, Adam. Even you can't magically erase things that are going to happen...that did happen to us."
"I should be able to. Why am I here if not to do exactly that?" The sheer power of this is so...tempting. Emperor Young....in the back of my head. The ability and power to reshape--
"That is a dangerous line of thought Adam, you know that. I don't think you would ever act on those impulses, you're too kind, and too responsible a person." Deanna says. I forget she can read my thoughts.
"I can't read full thoughts...but the emotion behind them as you well know."
"How am I able to hear you? I thought only...bonded empaths could do that? You and Will..." she blushes
"Yes Will and I can do that because of our intimate past...but you have partial empathy...your ability to listen to others, really listen to others concerns...opens you up like a receptor. Perhaps in your reality there was no outlet for this---but since you're here..."
"And been in close proximity to a partial telepath with strong empathic abilities?" I smile
"Yes. Perhaps. It is something we should talk about in future sessions." I nod
"Anything you need, whenever you need it---I will be there if I can. That's a promise." I say and Deanna flushes again
"Your emotions betray you Adam...I'm flattered but."
"I understand Deanna. Plus I have Selar right now...and that's challenge enough, I Just want you to know that you are protected if you need it. Always." I stop short from saying the thing that I want to her, but she gets the point. She nods and I turn around to leave.
This has begun a powerful bond between us that will never be broken.
I enter my quarters and toss off my boots and take off my jacket and toss it on the back of my desk chair and plop down face first on the sofa---like Venkmen in "Ghostbusters II'.
I've been back two months, and already am exhausted. It is late Feburary 2366...the business with the Shielak was a few weeks ago. Captain Picard was confounded by them as most diplomats have been for decades...until I decided to put him out of his misery and suggest recommending a third party mediator to resolve their issue, which was buying the colonists more time to evacuate. I briefly considered dealing with the colonists but thought better of that...I'm not equipped to handle situations like that at all. Picard comes to that conclusion himself, but that saved him hours of studying which I think he was grateful for.
My sessions with Deanna have been...helpful. We talk about everything basically...or as much as I allow. She's discovered my "personal shields" now. She knows that I have barriers up and has been very quietly trying to break them down, I know it's Deanna Troi...I know I can trust her, but I've never been good at confiding in others---it's always the other way around. Deanna's also discovered my empathic side---I don't have full on "abilities" like she does---but I do sense powerful emotions and they do affect me. Selar and I have started...dating? Courting definitely. I don't have anything else except my relationship with Elizabeth to compare it to so it's the strangest and also the best thing that's happened. Selar is absolutely fascinating as one would expect to discover. We talk for hours. About everything, and anything. I never thought I'd be courting a Vulcan. It is interesting because I found out that Selar has an elder brother named Voltak---in this reality, but in the novels, Voltak was her first husband who died during a freak Pon'Farr bonding session went awry. He is still an archeologist and often is off world, they have little communication with one another. Her parents...T'Prya and Voltik work at one of the Vulcan rehabilitation center's. She was born in the city of Raal. She has taken a fascination in me that I wasn't anticipating. I bluntly asked about Pon'Farr...and Selar stated that she last experienced Pon'Farr in 2361...so the next time won't be for two years. So she's genuinely curious about me. I am satisfied with that for now.
The studying has been...exhausting. 12 hours a day, five days a week. I have the weekends off. Wes has offered to help tutor me and I accepted his offer. Just as I am about to pass out---
"Crusher to Young."
"Young here, go ahead Doctor."
"Adam can you please report to Sickbay--something's wrong with Deanna."
I suddenly hear Help Meeeeee!
Oh shit. Uxbridge.
Kevin Uxbridge...I haven't thought about this episode in a LONG fucking time. I enter sickbay and Deanna is screaming. Riker is there. Crusher and Ogawa are trying to stabilize her. Riker looks at me with an expression on his face I've never seen before---horror. I share it but I try and compose myself.
"What's her status?" I ask, almost command
"Counsellor Troi reported having headaches a few hours ago. I ended up giving her a general analgesic for it...but it seems to have increased in intensity and two hours ago she came in---like this."
"Do you know what's happening to her Adam?" Will asks
"I'm afraid that I do, sir." I tap my comm badge
"Young to Captain Picard."
"Picard here go ahead."
" I am in sickbay with Counsellor Troi---I know what is causing her ailment and how to resolve it. I request permission to accompany you down to the planet surface."
There's a pause.
"For what purpose?" Picard asks
"Have we already made contact with the Uxbridges sir?"
"We have, yes. They have refused to beam up to the Enterprise---there was an--"
"I'm sorry sir but that ship is an illusion...as is Rishon herself. The problem is Kevin, and I think I may know how to resolve it, with your permission of course."
Deanna wails. If you can hear me Deanna, everything will be okay soon. I promise you.
"Very well, report to Transporter Room 3."
"Aye sir."
I look at the others with determined purpose. This universe is restoring my confidence.
"This will be over shortly. I promise." and I head out of sickbay and walk towards the transporter room.
I head into the Transporter Room where Captain Picard is there as is Worf looking concerned. Miles is tending the console. I haven't formally met him yet, which I need to make a point of doing soon.
"We won't need phasers sir, even as a precaution."
"I INSIST. " growls Worf and hands us both one of them. My phaser training has started as of a couple of days ago. I'm still getting used to holding a REAL phaser. He gives me a holster and I clip it on to my pants.
"I agree with Mr. Worf, you may know what situation we're going into Mr. Young, but I don't...and if this goes badly..."
"I understand sir. Thank you Worf." he nods
"What is your plan Mr. Young?" Picard asks
"Simple enough really...Uxbridge is an alien called an Douwd...he possesses tremendous psychic abilities---that is what is causing Deanna to experience her headaches. He's using some kind of psychic dampener device to block her empathy---I think it does something to increase pain every time she attempts to use it, even as a defense mechanism. He's...experienced a great deal of tragedy and is punishing himself for his...crimes. We need to convince him to lift the dampener and make him a promise that he'll be left alone...he wants to be punished--he'll ask you to do it---but that's not what we do--so the next best thing is to promise him that he'll be left alone and that this place will be quarantined."
"Very well. Your first away mission then Mr. Young."
"Aye sir."
"Nervous?"
"A little bit."
"Just follow my lead and you'll be fine."
"Aye sir."
"Energize Mr. O'Brien."
I'll never get used to the sensation nor the physics of transportation, nor do I want to discuss it at all. Picard and I touch down on the planet's surface and it looks exactly like it does from the episode. This is Talosian or Species 8472 level of bamboozlement. It is extremely impressive, right down to cellular levels. He probably knows that we're approaching. I stand beside Captain Picard and brace myself. I wasn't kidding. I am nervous as fuck right now. I have no idea if this is gonna work and phasers are for sure aren't gonna help us much if this goes south. There is HIGH potential for getting TOSSED.
We approach the house...again all the detail is incredible. I'm still trying to focus on the job at hand and remind myself that I am now apart of this, not merely an observer. I have responsibilities to myself and to Captain Picard. Picard knocks on the door and to his surprise, Rishon answers, and invites us in for tea. I am introduced and immediately Kevin becomes hostile but I wave my hand to Picard telling him that I have this.
"Mr. Uxbridge...my name is Adam Christopher Young, I am a Special Civilian Consultant attached to the Enterprise. I only intervene on behalf the Captain under certain special situations like this one. I am...aware of your---secret---your burden. I know what and why you've done all this, and I ask that you relieve our friend of her pain."
"How could you possibly know...ah. You're a reality hopper."
"Yes sir. I know what you've done, the pain that you are in, and what you want the Captain to do...but you must know deep down that we can't do any of that. We can't act as your judge, jury, and executioner....I think punishment enough is that you remain here, left alone---and I can assure you that you will undisturbed while you are here. But our friend is in great pain, and only you can remove the dampener you're using to block her empathic and telepathic receptors."
Uxbridge looks at me like I'm an alien...and he wouldn't be wrong. Uxbridge then turns to Captain Picard.
"I am sorry---I tried to lure you away---so that you wouldn't discover the truth."
"Mr. Young is correct, sir. The Federation is not qualified to judge you, much less humanity as a whole...however I can make it so that you aren't disturbed if that is what you want. We just ask that you help our friend."
It is interesting the dialogue isn't exact all the time. I wonder what is altering it other than my memory? Rishon vanished quicker than in the show as well. Is this already some kind of effect of my butterflying? The universe adjusting and correcting things as I...influence them?
The three of us beam aboard the Enterprise and Kevin removes the block from Deanna's head...and has his conversation with Doctor Crusher in his quarters. Picard is as good as his word as he contacts Starfleet and requests that Rana IV be placed in quarantine and reinforced with defensive buoys which are deployed before we depart the planet.
A little bit later on I visit Deanna in her quarters, she's still resting in her bed. She looks lovely...compose yourself fool. Deanna smiles as she sees me enter her room.
"I just wanted to check on you."
"Thank you."
"You're more than welcome Counsellor...I heard you...I'm sorry that I didn't respond to this sooner..."
"You are going to make mistakes attempting to butterfly things, Adam. Even you can't magically erase things that are going to happen...that did happen to us."
"I should be able to. Why am I here if not to do exactly that?" The sheer power of this is so...tempting. Emperor Young....in the back of my head. The ability and power to reshape--
"That is a dangerous line of thought Adam, you know that. I don't think you would ever act on those impulses, you're too kind, and too responsible a person." Deanna says. I forget she can read my thoughts.
"I can't read full thoughts...but the emotion behind them as you well know."
"How am I able to hear you? I thought only...bonded empaths could do that? You and Will..." she blushes
"Yes Will and I can do that because of our intimate past...but you have partial empathy...your ability to listen to others, really listen to others concerns...opens you up like a receptor. Perhaps in your reality there was no outlet for this---but since you're here..."
"And been in close proximity to a partial telepath with strong empathic abilities?" I smile
"Yes. Perhaps. It is something we should talk about in future sessions." I nod
"Anything you need, whenever you need it---I will be there if I can. That's a promise." I say and Deanna flushes again
"Your emotions betray you Adam...I'm flattered but."
"I understand Deanna. Plus I have Selar right now...and that's challenge enough, I Just want you to know that you are protected if you need it. Always." I stop short from saying the thing that I want to her, but she gets the point. She nods and I turn around to leave.
This has begun a powerful bond between us that will never be broken.
Chapter 20: Marla
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Selar and I's relationship progresses. People make the common mistake of thinking that Vulcans do not posses, emotions. This is incorrect. They are in fact one of the most passionate peoples in the galaxy...they CONTROL their emotions out of necessity. They FEEL so much that out of control, they are incredibly destructive. Selar has been teaching me Vulcan history and man...while we're fucked up at the point of origin where I come from---we've experienced a microcosm of violence compared to the Vulcans. It is no wonder that they put it upon themselves to police the galaxy. They know what true destructive power can do.
Anyways...the passion is there, so is the love. In fact is a POWERFUL love...that can be overwhelming...and despite my...inexperience...Selar has been...ahhhhh..teaching me a whole lot. I'm happy, and I am pleased that I...fascinate her. That is contentment enough for me.
"Who Watches the Watchers" happens as it does largely in the episode proper. Nothing I can really do here and if I insert myself here I could REALLY complicate matters more for the Mintakans who already think Captain Picard was a god, if they see me---that's a whole other can of worms no one wants to touch on. The incident with Marla Aster doesn't occur as I recommend to Picard that the away team doesn't investigate the ancient ruins.
"Why?" He asks annoyed that I've now interfered in a personnel decision
"Because Lt. Aster will be killed when she accidently steps on a mine. Worf will blame himself, and Jeremy Aster will be made an orphan." I state seriously
Picard places down the PADD hard on his table and glares at me sternly.
This is our first argument. It won't be our last.
"You are not a normal civilian. Out of anyone on this ship, you understand the risks that we as Starfleet officers take. We all do once we put on this uniform---the Lt---" I stop him before he carries on with his speech.
"Sir---how did you feel when you brought back Jack's body to Wesley and Beverly?" He now has that angry look
"How dare you." he whispers in that classic breathless Stewart barely controlled anger
"It's the same thing sir. I apologize for the bluntness, but you were about to justify making a child, an orphan for the good of DUTY! I will not, and can not allow that. What am I on board for---if not to enact THIS kind of change? I can save a family sir. Please don't stop me due to lectures of duty!"
Picard sighs, straightens his uniform and looks at his port behind the desk. The stars twinkle against the black blanket of space.
"I remember bringing Jack home, and Beverly's reaction----Wesley was still so little, so small. I was...numb inside. In disbelief over what happened and couldn't properly mourn with them, or for them. I didn't allow myself to feel what I should have, my best friend was dead and I was in shock." Picard reveals
"I know sir....I'm sorry. Jack...Jack sounds like he was a wonderful man." I reply
"He was the best. You know of him so they must've shown him or had some reference to him on the show, but he really was the best of all of us. The glue that held us together. I still miss him, very much, he would have liked you, especially for pushing me...but Mr. Young?"
"Yes sir?"
"Don't make a habit of it."
"Aye sir."
Warning noted. He sighs again.
"What is that you want me to do Mr. Young?"
"There's an entity on the planet...a remnant of the species that used to be there, it is empathic in nature. It takes Marla's form after her death...tries to comfort the boy...but it kind of backfires and Troi and yourself explain death to it---the theme of the episode is---"
"How we deal with death...I understand." He grins.
"Yes sir. I recommend that we have the planet quarantined. If you wish I can explain---"
"That won't be necessary Mr. Young. I will explain to Starfleet what we've discovered here as well as your recommendation for the planet." He taps his badge
"Picard to Riker."
"Riker here."
"The away mission to the planet is cancelled until further notice number one. Absolutely under any circumstances is any one to beam down to the planet, we're placing it under quarantine based on Mr. Young's recommendation."
"Aye sir."
"Thank you Captain." I say
"You just saved a young man's mother, Mr. Young, you should be very proud."
"Thank you sir. I'd like to speak to them if I could."
He nods.
"I'll arrange that with Counsellor Troi. If there's nothing else you're dismissed."
"Aye sir."
Deanna introduces me to Lt. Astra and Jeremy. Marla gives me a big hug, and I awkwardly hug her back.
"Thank you, for what you did. I don't understand what you can do, but thank you for saving me."
"You are most welcome ma'am."
"Jeremy, this is Mr. Young he---"
"You saved my mom."
He hugs my legs and I hug him around his shoulders. I try not to cry. THIS is why I am here. This is the Gift.
"You're both very welcome. I couldn't allow what was meant to happen---happen. No one deserves to be parentless."
"You're welcome here any time Mr. Young...perhaps for dinner?"
"I'd like that thank you."
Deanna and I turn to leave, and outside their quarters I put my hand up against the bulk head and allow myself to cry. Deanna reaches around my shoulder and squeezes me.
"You did a good thing Adam. You kept a family together."
"I-I know."
Selar and I's relationship progresses. People make the common mistake of thinking that Vulcans do not posses, emotions. This is incorrect. They are in fact one of the most passionate peoples in the galaxy...they CONTROL their emotions out of necessity. They FEEL so much that out of control, they are incredibly destructive. Selar has been teaching me Vulcan history and man...while we're fucked up at the point of origin where I come from---we've experienced a microcosm of violence compared to the Vulcans. It is no wonder that they put it upon themselves to police the galaxy. They know what true destructive power can do.
Anyways...the passion is there, so is the love. In fact is a POWERFUL love...that can be overwhelming...and despite my...inexperience...Selar has been...ahhhhh..teaching me a whole lot. I'm happy, and I am pleased that I...fascinate her. That is contentment enough for me.
"Who Watches the Watchers" happens as it does largely in the episode proper. Nothing I can really do here and if I insert myself here I could REALLY complicate matters more for the Mintakans who already think Captain Picard was a god, if they see me---that's a whole other can of worms no one wants to touch on. The incident with Marla Aster doesn't occur as I recommend to Picard that the away team doesn't investigate the ancient ruins.
"Why?" He asks annoyed that I've now interfered in a personnel decision
"Because Lt. Aster will be killed when she accidently steps on a mine. Worf will blame himself, and Jeremy Aster will be made an orphan." I state seriously
Picard places down the PADD hard on his table and glares at me sternly.
This is our first argument. It won't be our last.
"You are not a normal civilian. Out of anyone on this ship, you understand the risks that we as Starfleet officers take. We all do once we put on this uniform---the Lt---" I stop him before he carries on with his speech.
"Sir---how did you feel when you brought back Jack's body to Wesley and Beverly?" He now has that angry look
"How dare you." he whispers in that classic breathless Stewart barely controlled anger
"It's the same thing sir. I apologize for the bluntness, but you were about to justify making a child, an orphan for the good of DUTY! I will not, and can not allow that. What am I on board for---if not to enact THIS kind of change? I can save a family sir. Please don't stop me due to lectures of duty!"
Picard sighs, straightens his uniform and looks at his port behind the desk. The stars twinkle against the black blanket of space.
"I remember bringing Jack home, and Beverly's reaction----Wesley was still so little, so small. I was...numb inside. In disbelief over what happened and couldn't properly mourn with them, or for them. I didn't allow myself to feel what I should have, my best friend was dead and I was in shock." Picard reveals
"I know sir....I'm sorry. Jack...Jack sounds like he was a wonderful man." I reply
"He was the best. You know of him so they must've shown him or had some reference to him on the show, but he really was the best of all of us. The glue that held us together. I still miss him, very much, he would have liked you, especially for pushing me...but Mr. Young?"
"Yes sir?"
"Don't make a habit of it."
"Aye sir."
Warning noted. He sighs again.
"What is that you want me to do Mr. Young?"
"There's an entity on the planet...a remnant of the species that used to be there, it is empathic in nature. It takes Marla's form after her death...tries to comfort the boy...but it kind of backfires and Troi and yourself explain death to it---the theme of the episode is---"
"How we deal with death...I understand." He grins.
"Yes sir. I recommend that we have the planet quarantined. If you wish I can explain---"
"That won't be necessary Mr. Young. I will explain to Starfleet what we've discovered here as well as your recommendation for the planet." He taps his badge
"Picard to Riker."
"Riker here."
"The away mission to the planet is cancelled until further notice number one. Absolutely under any circumstances is any one to beam down to the planet, we're placing it under quarantine based on Mr. Young's recommendation."
"Aye sir."
"Thank you Captain." I say
"You just saved a young man's mother, Mr. Young, you should be very proud."
"Thank you sir. I'd like to speak to them if I could."
He nods.
"I'll arrange that with Counsellor Troi. If there's nothing else you're dismissed."
"Aye sir."
Deanna introduces me to Lt. Astra and Jeremy. Marla gives me a big hug, and I awkwardly hug her back.
"Thank you, for what you did. I don't understand what you can do, but thank you for saving me."
"You are most welcome ma'am."
"Jeremy, this is Mr. Young he---"
"You saved my mom."
He hugs my legs and I hug him around his shoulders. I try not to cry. THIS is why I am here. This is the Gift.
"You're both very welcome. I couldn't allow what was meant to happen---happen. No one deserves to be parentless."
"You're welcome here any time Mr. Young...perhaps for dinner?"
"I'd like that thank you."
Deanna and I turn to leave, and outside their quarters I put my hand up against the bulk head and allow myself to cry. Deanna reaches around my shoulder and squeezes me.
"You did a good thing Adam. You kept a family together."
"I-I know."
Chapter 21: Double Date
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My studies continue without pause and I'm starting to realize just what it takes to become a Starfleet officer. Why there are so many who wash out at the Academy each year. It is truly the best of the best. This is not meant to be an insult or some sort of class division. They maybe adventurer's , but at the heart of it they're all scientists. Some have more specialties than others do, more practical focus, but they're all highly intelligent, highly skilled scientists. ALL OF THEM. I can not stress this enough, and I'm not putting myself down, but for the first time since I started this a month ago I'm questioning if I can really do this---and we've not even gotten to the hard shit yet---like quantum physics. How the fuck am I going to understand that even with Wesley Crusher helping me? Oh by the way. Wes...is fucking scary smart. The show did him no favors. He is fucking easily the smartest person that I have known in my life by far---he makes my best friend back home, Sebastian look idiotic and Sebastian is not stupid at all. This kid is special and he's just finding his way now. I must make sure that he reaches his best destiny--weather as a Traveler---or as a Starfleet officer, I'm going to make sure this kid is taken care of.
Sonya Gomez tracks me down and invites Selar and I on a double date with her and Geordi---it would seem in this reality, Geordi finally realized that he was missing out on a good thing and agreed to go out with her a few weeks ago.
"I will bring it up to her."
"20:00 in my quarters!" she chimes in that weird kind of sing song voice of hers
I find Selar reading when I enter her quarters. It's around 19:00 hours and I'm just concluding another long exhausting day of school. Selar concludes her shift around 17:00 hours, unless of course an emergency occurs. Like most medical staff, all ships medical staff are basically on call. I lean over and kiss her on the top of the head and sit down on the other arm chair.
"Sonya Gomez wants to know if we're interested in dinner tonight? Her quarters, in about a hour?"
Selar places down her PAAD and looks at me.
"How did you respond to this inquiry?"
"I told her I would ask you first...so you interested?"
"I would not oppose going, however I am aware of your...dislike of...going out." I smile...I HATE going out.
Heh. In this case though I'm so intrigued I'll make an exception.
"Great. I'll inform Ensign Gomez, then afterwards when we get back...Dr. Hill gave me a new filled up hyp...."
I have since learned of the tremendous strength of Vulcan's, not to mention the increased...uh...stamina needed. I am starting to understand that scene with Worf and Dax now...
"We shall discuss it."
Good enough for me! I tap my comm badge.
"Young to Gomez. We'll be there in around 45 minutes!" I tell her
"Great! We'll see you there!"
Selar and I head over and dinner is uneventful. Despite her Vulcan demeaner, Selar is actually quite chatty. Geordi has known her the longest, so the two of them chat about work, while Sonya and I chat about random stuff. We've become pretty close. I knew that Sonya and I would get along, surprised though with how fast and out of the blue it has though. We talk mostly about my studying and how it's going. Sonya offers to become another tutor for me if I'd like, and I accept. Dinner is a simple three course meal. Appy, main meal, and desert. All of which were fantastic. The two of us end up staying until about 22:00 until we excuse ourselves.
The two of us head back to Selar's quarters.
"That wasn't that bad, was it?" I ask
"No. It was not. Commander LaForge's knowledge of engineering is unmatched."
"It is indeed. So...about my earlier suggestion?"
"Take your hypo, I will wait for you in the bedroom."
I appreciate the bluntness of Vulcans sometimes.
My studies continue without pause and I'm starting to realize just what it takes to become a Starfleet officer. Why there are so many who wash out at the Academy each year. It is truly the best of the best. This is not meant to be an insult or some sort of class division. They maybe adventurer's , but at the heart of it they're all scientists. Some have more specialties than others do, more practical focus, but they're all highly intelligent, highly skilled scientists. ALL OF THEM. I can not stress this enough, and I'm not putting myself down, but for the first time since I started this a month ago I'm questioning if I can really do this---and we've not even gotten to the hard shit yet---like quantum physics. How the fuck am I going to understand that even with Wesley Crusher helping me? Oh by the way. Wes...is fucking scary smart. The show did him no favors. He is fucking easily the smartest person that I have known in my life by far---he makes my best friend back home, Sebastian look idiotic and Sebastian is not stupid at all. This kid is special and he's just finding his way now. I must make sure that he reaches his best destiny--weather as a Traveler---or as a Starfleet officer, I'm going to make sure this kid is taken care of.
Sonya Gomez tracks me down and invites Selar and I on a double date with her and Geordi---it would seem in this reality, Geordi finally realized that he was missing out on a good thing and agreed to go out with her a few weeks ago.
"I will bring it up to her."
"20:00 in my quarters!" she chimes in that weird kind of sing song voice of hers
I find Selar reading when I enter her quarters. It's around 19:00 hours and I'm just concluding another long exhausting day of school. Selar concludes her shift around 17:00 hours, unless of course an emergency occurs. Like most medical staff, all ships medical staff are basically on call. I lean over and kiss her on the top of the head and sit down on the other arm chair.
"Sonya Gomez wants to know if we're interested in dinner tonight? Her quarters, in about a hour?"
Selar places down her PAAD and looks at me.
"How did you respond to this inquiry?"
"I told her I would ask you first...so you interested?"
"I would not oppose going, however I am aware of your...dislike of...going out." I smile...I HATE going out.
Heh. In this case though I'm so intrigued I'll make an exception.
"Great. I'll inform Ensign Gomez, then afterwards when we get back...Dr. Hill gave me a new filled up hyp...."
I have since learned of the tremendous strength of Vulcan's, not to mention the increased...uh...stamina needed. I am starting to understand that scene with Worf and Dax now...
"We shall discuss it."
Good enough for me! I tap my comm badge.
"Young to Gomez. We'll be there in around 45 minutes!" I tell her
"Great! We'll see you there!"
Selar and I head over and dinner is uneventful. Despite her Vulcan demeaner, Selar is actually quite chatty. Geordi has known her the longest, so the two of them chat about work, while Sonya and I chat about random stuff. We've become pretty close. I knew that Sonya and I would get along, surprised though with how fast and out of the blue it has though. We talk mostly about my studying and how it's going. Sonya offers to become another tutor for me if I'd like, and I accept. Dinner is a simple three course meal. Appy, main meal, and desert. All of which were fantastic. The two of us end up staying until about 22:00 until we excuse ourselves.
The two of us head back to Selar's quarters.
"That wasn't that bad, was it?" I ask
"No. It was not. Commander LaForge's knowledge of engineering is unmatched."
"It is indeed. So...about my earlier suggestion?"
"Take your hypo, I will wait for you in the bedroom."
I appreciate the bluntness of Vulcans sometimes.
Chapter 22: Did No One Else Play With Model Ships When They Were Boys?
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My day starts at 06:00 hours every morning. I report to Commander Riker at the end of each day and have to present him with a report of my daily...actions for lack of a better term. I don't think this is what Cadets do, but we've set this up as a way for him to evaluate my work each day. I assume that Wes has to do something similar or maybe they have another arrangement. My favourite courses so far are on Starfleet Operations, Starfleet History (which I'm already a bit versed on having consumed what I could last year)...Diplomacy is surprisingly pleasant and not boring as fuck. Since I don't really have a teacher or instructor, I'm really reading texts and doing textbook work assignments...it's kind of hard to explain. This doesn't feel like school but the days drain sometimes.
Selar continues to be a bright spot. I took her to a hockey game on the holodeck. I'm not sure she appreciated it---turns out she's a baseball fan. Who knew Vulcans were such fans? My lack of experience in...dating...has caused us to have a bit of a lull, but she doesn't seemed phased at all by this. I think I might be the first person she has dated in a while...again no husband in this reality.
"Riker to Young."
"Young here."
"Report to the bridge."
This is unusual. I tend to stay far away from the bridge unless...oh no. What now?
"I'm on my way."
I toss on my trusty leather jacket that is almost like a cape for me and I head on up to the bridge. IT's about a three minute trip on the turbolift which is down the corridor from my hall. I step onto the bridge and see Captain Picard and Commander Riker standing---smiling as---oh no---shit. The Promellian battlecruiser. Just as Picard is about to beam to me how gorgeous the ship looks (different strokes for different folks, not my cup of tea!) I compose myself and blurt out...
"Sir, we need back the ship off from this sector...quickly."
"Mr. Crusher back us off to a safer distance from our current position, full impulse power." Picard orders without hesitation
"I'd recommend warp one sir." Just to be on the safe side, have no idea what the proximity of the booby trap is. I've forgotten that part.
"Also sir, I'd recommend that Mr. LaForge run a full priority one systems diagnostic on ALL ship's systems, immediately."
Picard nods and Riker relays the request to Geordi
"Mr. Young, report."
"Aye sir. I apologize sir...but the Promellion battlecruiser that you probably called me up here to see...is the host of a final booby trap. Left over from the war, designed to drain the systems of an enemy ship that it was in close proximity to. It is what the crew died from...sir."
Picard and Riker exchange disappointing glances, they were hoping to discover this for themselves
"How soon do the system failures take place after we board the ship?"
"I think it was almost instantly which is why I overcompensated to back us off to a safe distance. A full parsec should be more than suitable."
"Can we access their systems via probe?"
"I don't see why not. I think the issues started when the away team brings back a power pack from the ship and hooks it up to the Enterprise's systems. I think the probe...can interact with the black box, or access the Captain's logs if that is what you're interested in, but honestly I wouldn't risk anything. This booby trap is a potent one. I also recommend sir that we destroy the ship."
That gets me a harsh glance from both of them.
"Sirs, I know what this means to both of you--particularly you Captain, but it's a literal booby trap. It should be taken out."
"Mr. Worf launch a class five probe...program it to access the ship's database...and nothing else, and for it to scan for potential harmful viruses."
"Aye sir."
"Riker to LaForge, report."
"System diagnostics are complete sir, we're clean. Can I get an explanation of what's going on up there?" he asks
"Stand by Geordi."
"Aye sir."
"Probe is ready sir."
"Launch it."
Probe is launched and conducts its scans of the ship...it detects no harmful viruses. It accesses the Captain's logs like in the show and the ship's black box. It returns after a while and I'm brought back up to the bridge.
"Mr. Young....you have apparently saved us from a...dire fate. We analyzed the data it brought back and you were of course correct...we viewed the Captain's final entry and he revealed the presence of the aceton assimilator...if we had gone onboard and brought back that power pack..."
"Yes sir."
"Thank you...I figured you'd want to do the honors?" Riker asks glancing at Picard
I look at both of them.
"Sirs?"
"It was your recommendation that we destroy the ship." Picard says sadly
"Oh...yes sir. I'm sorry sir...I know you were excited about finding her."
"A magnificent ship during a brutal time, Mr. Young...but this is for the best." fanling over a ship is the most Star Trek thing ever
I smile to myself. I have always wanted to say this at least once. It's too bad it has to be under these circumstances. I stare at the viewscreen and use my most commanding voice. Like in sickbay a few weeks ago.
"Mr. Worf, load photon torpedoes...set to denotate on impact with the Promellion vessel."
I see Riker grin out of the corner of my eye, he's pleased. I blush. I also try not to cry.
"Torpedoes are ready." Worf reports
"Fire." I say almost breathlessly
I watch as three glowing balls of light streak from below Enterprise (we've moved back into our original position now it has been deemed safe) and watch with a tad bit of sadness as they strike the ancient vessel as it explodes in a huge ball of fury. It is done.
"Very good, Mr. Young. Mr. Worf." Picard compliments
"Aye sir." the two of us say in unison.
I sit down on the box beside Deanna as Riker waves me over there.
"Mr. Crusher, set a course for the Astral V Annex...Warp Four. I'm afraid we're going to have to disappoint the Director, or should I say, Mr. Young here will..."
Everyone laughs and I frown.
"Aye sir."
Wesley inputs the coordinates into the console and I hear the familiar sound effect of the Enterprise jump into warp as we depart.
My day starts at 06:00 hours every morning. I report to Commander Riker at the end of each day and have to present him with a report of my daily...actions for lack of a better term. I don't think this is what Cadets do, but we've set this up as a way for him to evaluate my work each day. I assume that Wes has to do something similar or maybe they have another arrangement. My favourite courses so far are on Starfleet Operations, Starfleet History (which I'm already a bit versed on having consumed what I could last year)...Diplomacy is surprisingly pleasant and not boring as fuck. Since I don't really have a teacher or instructor, I'm really reading texts and doing textbook work assignments...it's kind of hard to explain. This doesn't feel like school but the days drain sometimes.
Selar continues to be a bright spot. I took her to a hockey game on the holodeck. I'm not sure she appreciated it---turns out she's a baseball fan. Who knew Vulcans were such fans? My lack of experience in...dating...has caused us to have a bit of a lull, but she doesn't seemed phased at all by this. I think I might be the first person she has dated in a while...again no husband in this reality.
"Riker to Young."
"Young here."
"Report to the bridge."
This is unusual. I tend to stay far away from the bridge unless...oh no. What now?
"I'm on my way."
I toss on my trusty leather jacket that is almost like a cape for me and I head on up to the bridge. IT's about a three minute trip on the turbolift which is down the corridor from my hall. I step onto the bridge and see Captain Picard and Commander Riker standing---smiling as---oh no---shit. The Promellian battlecruiser. Just as Picard is about to beam to me how gorgeous the ship looks (different strokes for different folks, not my cup of tea!) I compose myself and blurt out...
"Sir, we need back the ship off from this sector...quickly."
"Mr. Crusher back us off to a safer distance from our current position, full impulse power." Picard orders without hesitation
"I'd recommend warp one sir." Just to be on the safe side, have no idea what the proximity of the booby trap is. I've forgotten that part.
"Also sir, I'd recommend that Mr. LaForge run a full priority one systems diagnostic on ALL ship's systems, immediately."
Picard nods and Riker relays the request to Geordi
"Mr. Young, report."
"Aye sir. I apologize sir...but the Promellion battlecruiser that you probably called me up here to see...is the host of a final booby trap. Left over from the war, designed to drain the systems of an enemy ship that it was in close proximity to. It is what the crew died from...sir."
Picard and Riker exchange disappointing glances, they were hoping to discover this for themselves
"How soon do the system failures take place after we board the ship?"
"I think it was almost instantly which is why I overcompensated to back us off to a safe distance. A full parsec should be more than suitable."
"Can we access their systems via probe?"
"I don't see why not. I think the issues started when the away team brings back a power pack from the ship and hooks it up to the Enterprise's systems. I think the probe...can interact with the black box, or access the Captain's logs if that is what you're interested in, but honestly I wouldn't risk anything. This booby trap is a potent one. I also recommend sir that we destroy the ship."
That gets me a harsh glance from both of them.
"Sirs, I know what this means to both of you--particularly you Captain, but it's a literal booby trap. It should be taken out."
"Mr. Worf launch a class five probe...program it to access the ship's database...and nothing else, and for it to scan for potential harmful viruses."
"Aye sir."
"Riker to LaForge, report."
"System diagnostics are complete sir, we're clean. Can I get an explanation of what's going on up there?" he asks
"Stand by Geordi."
"Aye sir."
"Probe is ready sir."
"Launch it."
Probe is launched and conducts its scans of the ship...it detects no harmful viruses. It accesses the Captain's logs like in the show and the ship's black box. It returns after a while and I'm brought back up to the bridge.
"Mr. Young....you have apparently saved us from a...dire fate. We analyzed the data it brought back and you were of course correct...we viewed the Captain's final entry and he revealed the presence of the aceton assimilator...if we had gone onboard and brought back that power pack..."
"Yes sir."
"Thank you...I figured you'd want to do the honors?" Riker asks glancing at Picard
I look at both of them.
"Sirs?"
"It was your recommendation that we destroy the ship." Picard says sadly
"Oh...yes sir. I'm sorry sir...I know you were excited about finding her."
"A magnificent ship during a brutal time, Mr. Young...but this is for the best." fanling over a ship is the most Star Trek thing ever
I smile to myself. I have always wanted to say this at least once. It's too bad it has to be under these circumstances. I stare at the viewscreen and use my most commanding voice. Like in sickbay a few weeks ago.
"Mr. Worf, load photon torpedoes...set to denotate on impact with the Promellion vessel."
I see Riker grin out of the corner of my eye, he's pleased. I blush. I also try not to cry.
"Torpedoes are ready." Worf reports
"Fire." I say almost breathlessly
I watch as three glowing balls of light streak from below Enterprise (we've moved back into our original position now it has been deemed safe) and watch with a tad bit of sadness as they strike the ancient vessel as it explodes in a huge ball of fury. It is done.
"Very good, Mr. Young. Mr. Worf." Picard compliments
"Aye sir." the two of us say in unison.
I sit down on the box beside Deanna as Riker waves me over there.
"Mr. Crusher, set a course for the Astral V Annex...Warp Four. I'm afraid we're going to have to disappoint the Director, or should I say, Mr. Young here will..."
Everyone laughs and I frown.
"Aye sir."
Wesley inputs the coordinates into the console and I hear the familiar sound effect of the Enterprise jump into warp as we depart.
Chapter 23: The Vulcan Goodbye
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Author's Note: This is going to disappoint all of you, but I found this neccessary to do. I promise though everything has a pay off eventually that happens. This also was a REALLY short chapter on purpose. We're about to go on a bit of an arc next.
Selar and I decide to break up. It is a logical decision. We're just not that compatible. Clearly there was something there, but sometimes attraction and passion alone are not enough. We decide to remain friends. I did have to explain to the director of the Astral V Annex why we weren't towing in a vintage Promellion battlecruiser, but she was more than understanding about it. We end up staying a couple of days at the ship museum there, which is a whole lot of fun. While leaving Transporter Room 2 I accidently bump into someone....and after steadying ourselves I see who it is.
"Lieutenant Henshaw! My apologies!"
"Mr. Young...isn't it?"
"Aye sir."
"It's okay. Things happen, everyone coming and going back and forth from the museum, things like this are bound to happen."
I hand her over her PADD and she thanks me.
"I am off duty currently, was actually just heading to Ten Forward, you wouldn't care to join me for a drink would you?" Henshaw asks
"Sure I'd love to."
Something new has possibly begun.
Author's Note: This is going to disappoint all of you, but I found this neccessary to do. I promise though everything has a pay off eventually that happens. This also was a REALLY short chapter on purpose. We're about to go on a bit of an arc next.
Selar and I decide to break up. It is a logical decision. We're just not that compatible. Clearly there was something there, but sometimes attraction and passion alone are not enough. We decide to remain friends. I did have to explain to the director of the Astral V Annex why we weren't towing in a vintage Promellion battlecruiser, but she was more than understanding about it. We end up staying a couple of days at the ship museum there, which is a whole lot of fun. While leaving Transporter Room 2 I accidently bump into someone....and after steadying ourselves I see who it is.
"Lieutenant Henshaw! My apologies!"
"Mr. Young...isn't it?"
"Aye sir."
"It's okay. Things happen, everyone coming and going back and forth from the museum, things like this are bound to happen."
I hand her over her PADD and she thanks me.
"I am off duty currently, was actually just heading to Ten Forward, you wouldn't care to join me for a drink would you?" Henshaw asks
"Sure I'd love to."
Something new has possibly begun.
Chapter 24: Romulans Afoot!
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It takes me a few minutes during our drinks that this Lt. Henshaw is actually CHRISTY Henshaw---the officer who Geordi had a crush on during this season and whom ended it with him because she didn't feel the same way about him that he did with her...good thing that Sonya managed to woo him with her charm then. Christy...turns out is pretty charming herself. I feel bad about this happening so soon after breaking up with Selar, but this feels comfortable. The evening quickly becomes night time as drinks turn into dinner, I order a steak and mash while she orders pasta with a light salad. I have a lemon bar for desert and she has vanilla ice cream. Christy offers to invite me to her quarters but I turn her down saying I have a busy day ahead of me but...next time if she's interested I'll cook dinner for her at mine. She accepts the offer.
The Enterprise responds to a distress signal originating from the Galmodon Core. It turns out to be Romulan...Captain Picard requests my presence on the bridge and I immediately remember this episode. It's the episode where Geordi gets left behind and has to fend for himself against another Romulan officer, while Worf refuses to aide the Romulan we are about to find here with a back transplant. The planet---which if I recall correctly is plagued with extreme radiologic storm s that interfere with comms and transportation. Picard wants my assessment of the situation.
"The wreckage is immense. There are survivors but due to the time window involved, you pull out one, but lose Geordi in the process." I explain
"I see. What would you recommend we do Mr. Young?"
"I recommend that we launch a probe first to determine what exactly is down there, if it is unable to transmit any readings back to the ship, then proceed with rescue op." I reply my training starting to kick in
"Very good...and if Mr. LaForge gets left behind again?"
"Tell Geordi to be extremely mindful...Wesley develops a way to make contact with him if it happens...but tell him I said to watch himself."
There's not much I can do about this if it happens again. They won't allow me to beam down into this kind of a situation, not with Romulans involved.
"Understood. What of the Romulan we bring back?"
I exhale.
"He has extensive neurological damage from the storms, Doctor Crusher is going to discover that he is in need of rare ribo---rib something---" damn medical terms
"Ribosomes?" Riker offers
"Yes sir. Thank you sir."
"And only one person on board matches with him...take a wild guess who it is. "
Riker blows air through his mouth.
"Worf."
"Yes sir."
"We'll deal with that when the time comes, thank you Mr. Young. You've been most helpful as usual. We'll call you if you're services are required. Dismissed."
"Aye."
I am no longer needed as Geordi doesn't fall down and get left behind---I do make a point of telling Captain Picard to tell Tomalak of the other survivor on the ship and that Tomalak should focus on that rather than bitching about us violating the treaty. I also tell Picard if Tomalak gives him any trouble, tell him that you're aware of his extra curricular activities---if he huffs and puffs call me and I'll deal with the blow hard. The rest of the episode transpires as it does in the show as Crusher and Riker attempt to convince Worf to do the right thing and donate the--ribosomes, but Worf refuses to compromise and the Romulan dies...Tomalak decides to ignore our warnings and our information and appears armed. Since Borcha isn't on the Enterprise with Geordi to convince the Commander to stand down, Riker calls me to the bridge.
"WHO is this?" demands Tomalak
Tomalak exclaims angrily as I appear in my all black outfit. I try not to get emotional as I face off against the great Andreas Kastaslas. Hello Old Friend. G'Kar....a weird flash happens that jerks me around for a second, but I recover quickly and motion away the Captain and Commander Riker.
"Commander Tomalak, I am Starfleet Special Consultant Young...and have been authorized by Captain Picard to speak to you on behalf of the United Federation of Planets. First, it is a great honor for me to address you." I bow sincerely while the others exchange glances behind my back.
"Secondly...I understand that you are angered at our presence here. We were as Captain Picard informed you prior, responding to a distress call your crashed vessel sent. We were sadly unable to save the survivor of that crash...however there was another named Borcha there---that you went and retrieved. I greet him as well with the same honor and respect I bestow upon you."
"You dare address me...you are in violation of---"
"Commander Tomalak please cease your posturing, I am aware of your--extracurricular activities alongside the neutral zone borders. Captain Picard was not bluffing earlier when he pointed this out to you---I can assure you that if you continue along this hostile action---you will not like the consequences." I use my command voice but it is also full of genuine respect
"How could you possibly know..." Tomalak breathes
"I know things Commander. Things you do not want THEM to know and I am willing to expose them right now if you don't disarm your weapons and turn your ships back home, immediately. We will be more than happy to return to you your fallen comrade if you wish---other than that though you have no business here, and we will shall be departing shortly." I drop my voice as it goes cold when I said this last part.
Tomalak leans over in his chair to really look at me for the first time and I am slightly unnerved about this. This is dangerous. I have now revealed myself to the Romulans for the first time. This will not bode well for me later.
"How do I know that you are not bluffing, Mr. Young?" he asks and I sigh
"The Apnex Sea." I say deadpanned
Tomalak's green blood drains from his face faster than I could have possibly have imagined.
"It has been my pleasure Captain, Mr. Young....I commend your Special Consultant on his diplomatic tact...but I have been called away on an urgent matter. You have my apologies..."
We watch in awe as the screen goes black and switches to the warbirds decloaking and reversing course faster than they can engage their singularity engine.
Riker strides up next to me.
"What's the significance of the Apnex Sea?" I grin
"It is the location of the family home of one of the Commander's colleagues...a superior in fact."
"I get the feeling that we'll be hearing from the Romulans sooner than you're letting on Adam." Picard says using my first name formally on the bridge for one of the first times. He's starting to soften to me as I start to use my knowledge to prove myself to him. I want him to be proud of me.
"Sooner than we all think sir--but that's for another time. I suggest we get the hell out of here while the getting's good."
"What about the Romulan officer?" Deanna asks
"We'll arrange for an envoy to pick up the body at the nearest Starbase. It's clear that whatever Mr. Young said to Tomalak had an impact he didn't want us to find out about...they'll send someone for the body, or they won't. Ensign Rager set a course for Starbase 87, Warp 4."
"Aye sir."
"Well done Mr. Young...however I can not help but feel like you've just made your first enemy today."
"Thank you sir, only time will tell on that front." The three of us turn to sit down in our chairs--me in the "box" beside Deanna as she smiles at me. I blush. Rager inputs the coordinates for the starbase and we head to warp.
It takes me a few minutes during our drinks that this Lt. Henshaw is actually CHRISTY Henshaw---the officer who Geordi had a crush on during this season and whom ended it with him because she didn't feel the same way about him that he did with her...good thing that Sonya managed to woo him with her charm then. Christy...turns out is pretty charming herself. I feel bad about this happening so soon after breaking up with Selar, but this feels comfortable. The evening quickly becomes night time as drinks turn into dinner, I order a steak and mash while she orders pasta with a light salad. I have a lemon bar for desert and she has vanilla ice cream. Christy offers to invite me to her quarters but I turn her down saying I have a busy day ahead of me but...next time if she's interested I'll cook dinner for her at mine. She accepts the offer.
The Enterprise responds to a distress signal originating from the Galmodon Core. It turns out to be Romulan...Captain Picard requests my presence on the bridge and I immediately remember this episode. It's the episode where Geordi gets left behind and has to fend for himself against another Romulan officer, while Worf refuses to aide the Romulan we are about to find here with a back transplant. The planet---which if I recall correctly is plagued with extreme radiologic storm s that interfere with comms and transportation. Picard wants my assessment of the situation.
"The wreckage is immense. There are survivors but due to the time window involved, you pull out one, but lose Geordi in the process." I explain
"I see. What would you recommend we do Mr. Young?"
"I recommend that we launch a probe first to determine what exactly is down there, if it is unable to transmit any readings back to the ship, then proceed with rescue op." I reply my training starting to kick in
"Very good...and if Mr. LaForge gets left behind again?"
"Tell Geordi to be extremely mindful...Wesley develops a way to make contact with him if it happens...but tell him I said to watch himself."
There's not much I can do about this if it happens again. They won't allow me to beam down into this kind of a situation, not with Romulans involved.
"Understood. What of the Romulan we bring back?"
I exhale.
"He has extensive neurological damage from the storms, Doctor Crusher is going to discover that he is in need of rare ribo---rib something---" damn medical terms
"Ribosomes?" Riker offers
"Yes sir. Thank you sir."
"And only one person on board matches with him...take a wild guess who it is. "
Riker blows air through his mouth.
"Worf."
"Yes sir."
"We'll deal with that when the time comes, thank you Mr. Young. You've been most helpful as usual. We'll call you if you're services are required. Dismissed."
"Aye."
I am no longer needed as Geordi doesn't fall down and get left behind---I do make a point of telling Captain Picard to tell Tomalak of the other survivor on the ship and that Tomalak should focus on that rather than bitching about us violating the treaty. I also tell Picard if Tomalak gives him any trouble, tell him that you're aware of his extra curricular activities---if he huffs and puffs call me and I'll deal with the blow hard. The rest of the episode transpires as it does in the show as Crusher and Riker attempt to convince Worf to do the right thing and donate the--ribosomes, but Worf refuses to compromise and the Romulan dies...Tomalak decides to ignore our warnings and our information and appears armed. Since Borcha isn't on the Enterprise with Geordi to convince the Commander to stand down, Riker calls me to the bridge.
"WHO is this?" demands Tomalak
Tomalak exclaims angrily as I appear in my all black outfit. I try not to get emotional as I face off against the great Andreas Kastaslas. Hello Old Friend. G'Kar....a weird flash happens that jerks me around for a second, but I recover quickly and motion away the Captain and Commander Riker.
"Commander Tomalak, I am Starfleet Special Consultant Young...and have been authorized by Captain Picard to speak to you on behalf of the United Federation of Planets. First, it is a great honor for me to address you." I bow sincerely while the others exchange glances behind my back.
"Secondly...I understand that you are angered at our presence here. We were as Captain Picard informed you prior, responding to a distress call your crashed vessel sent. We were sadly unable to save the survivor of that crash...however there was another named Borcha there---that you went and retrieved. I greet him as well with the same honor and respect I bestow upon you."
"You dare address me...you are in violation of---"
"Commander Tomalak please cease your posturing, I am aware of your--extracurricular activities alongside the neutral zone borders. Captain Picard was not bluffing earlier when he pointed this out to you---I can assure you that if you continue along this hostile action---you will not like the consequences." I use my command voice but it is also full of genuine respect
"How could you possibly know..." Tomalak breathes
"I know things Commander. Things you do not want THEM to know and I am willing to expose them right now if you don't disarm your weapons and turn your ships back home, immediately. We will be more than happy to return to you your fallen comrade if you wish---other than that though you have no business here, and we will shall be departing shortly." I drop my voice as it goes cold when I said this last part.
Tomalak leans over in his chair to really look at me for the first time and I am slightly unnerved about this. This is dangerous. I have now revealed myself to the Romulans for the first time. This will not bode well for me later.
"How do I know that you are not bluffing, Mr. Young?" he asks and I sigh
"The Apnex Sea." I say deadpanned
Tomalak's green blood drains from his face faster than I could have possibly have imagined.
"It has been my pleasure Captain, Mr. Young....I commend your Special Consultant on his diplomatic tact...but I have been called away on an urgent matter. You have my apologies..."
We watch in awe as the screen goes black and switches to the warbirds decloaking and reversing course faster than they can engage their singularity engine.
Riker strides up next to me.
"What's the significance of the Apnex Sea?" I grin
"It is the location of the family home of one of the Commander's colleagues...a superior in fact."
"I get the feeling that we'll be hearing from the Romulans sooner than you're letting on Adam." Picard says using my first name formally on the bridge for one of the first times. He's starting to soften to me as I start to use my knowledge to prove myself to him. I want him to be proud of me.
"Sooner than we all think sir--but that's for another time. I suggest we get the hell out of here while the getting's good."
"What about the Romulan officer?" Deanna asks
"We'll arrange for an envoy to pick up the body at the nearest Starbase. It's clear that whatever Mr. Young said to Tomalak had an impact he didn't want us to find out about...they'll send someone for the body, or they won't. Ensign Rager set a course for Starbase 87, Warp 4."
"Aye sir."
"Well done Mr. Young...however I can not help but feel like you've just made your first enemy today."
"Thank you sir, only time will tell on that front." The three of us turn to sit down in our chairs--me in the "box" beside Deanna as she smiles at me. I blush. Rager inputs the coordinates for the starbase and we head to warp.
Chapter 25: The Defector
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"The Price" is completely butterflied when I inform Captain Picard that the Barzan wormwhole is a complete dud and is going to collapse in on itself during the talks. He wants to know how...Data and Geordi conduct tests while inside, discovering that the Alpha Quadrant side is unstable and is going to collapse. The Barzans will want proof of this however, ask the Barzans to conduct the test before the talks are granted. Convince them that this is the only way that the Federation will take part in the talks. Picard does so and the Premier allows the tests and Data and Geordi are able to confirm that the Alpha Quadrant entrance will collapse in a matter of weeks. The wormhole is worthless. Also this means the two Ferengi won't be lost in the Delta Quadrant and contaminate the planet they land on. A calculated risk, but shouldn't affect anything.
We skip over "The Vengeance Factor" as that takes place as it did on the show. I have Christy Henshaw over for dinner and cook her my lemon chicken pasta, a light leafy salad as a side, and ice cream for desert. We enjoy each other's company and she agrees to see me for a third date.
I'm awoken as my comm alerts me to report to the bridge on the double from Commander Riker...as I get there...I see that the Enterprise has encountered a Romulan scout ship being fired upon by a warbird. The Enterprise is able to chase off the warbird and beam over the occupant of the scout ship who identifies himself as Sub-Lt Setal...he informs Captain Picard that he has sensitive information that could help the Federation and wants to deflect. Oh boy. Here we go.
I am called to Captain Picard's ready room to discuss Setal's claims and Admiral Jarok is sitting there already. Picard introduces me to Jarok and I play my card now...
"Greetings Setal. It is an honor to meet you. I know that you have come to us with great risk to yourself, because you're attempting to protect your family and that you wish to be with them."
I watch as his face changes. He's suspicious of me.
"What do you know of me?"
"I know you sir, more than you're currently aware of. I know why you're being hunted by Tomalak, and by High Command." I turn to Captain Picard
"Do you remember our little encounter with Tomalak a few weeks ago sir?"
"Yes. You mentioned the Apnex Sea to him and he ran off faster than it took you to say it..." Picard is observing Setal and we both notice a visible reaction to hearing the name of his home.
I turn to face Setal again.
"Sir, with respect, not for your past, but for what you are attempting to achieve now...I am aware of the slander against you, and that you are being set up. Nelvana III has been scrubbed as part of this set up...more than likely by Tomalak and his faction. If you reveal the truth of yourself to Captain Picard now, I may have a solution to how to help you."
He looks at me.
"I don't know you..."
"No you don't. I'm asking you to trust me, and to trust the Captain, and Captain I'm asking you to trust me as well."
He glances hard at the two of us then exhales.
"I apologize for the subterfuge gentlemen, I believe that I am out of my element. Captain Picard...forgive me for my deception but I felt it was necessary...I am in truth Admiral Jarok, formerly of the Romulan High Command."
Picard gasps.
"Alidar Jarok...of the Norkan Massacre."
Jarok nods sadly.
"Yes. I was a different man then, than I am now. Now all I want is to be with my family...war...has become tiresome and destructive. It is tearing apart my people, Captain. I came here hoping to prevent a war, but it would seem that my superiors chose this as an opportunity to set me up...I suppose that I am fortunate to have, Mr. Young here as an advocate."
"Adam, what have they done?"
"There's no formal proof as one expects...but the Romulans have been busy building secret bases along various points of the neutral zone. Jarok here is sincere about why he is willing to help us, all he wants to do is retire and spend the rest of his days with his family."
Picard sighs and tugs the bottom of his uniform.
"You have placed me in a difficult position Admiral. The Federation Council has ordered me to return you to the Star Empire. However...I have come to...rely upon Mr. Young's information...it is uncannily accurate. I trust you have a plan?" he asks me
"I do, but it's complicated, and I need to utilize my network to make it happen---I'm not even sure if it will work, but I request that you trust me again."
"Very well. What do you propose we tell Tomalak?"
"Tell that bombastic oaf that the Admiral took his own life...for now there will need to be some pain sir, but I assure you that if my plan works, you'll be reunited with your family."
"I don't know either of you but somehow I trust you. Very well."
"Captain, I request permission to use communications beyond my security clearance?" which is still unusually high for a civilian.
He nods.
"I'll make sure you have whatever it is you need, Mr. Young. Good luck"
It takes me a couple of days...I honestly thought it would be way longer...but I have friends in high places now, and while they were---questioning my efforts---they allowed it due to my good standing with them. I wait patiently until suddenly---I hear HIS voice.
"Mr. Young, I presume? You have requested to with me?" The Great Man asks
"I have gone great lengths to do so...Ambassador Spock."
"We do not have much time on this channel, make your business plain"
I tell Spock about Admiral Jarok and the Romulans plan to set him up...and that I believe that he has information that would be of use to the Federation and to Spock's own...quest. We're on a triple encrypted channel so I make sure not to say out loud anything about his movement.
"I believe that I can have something arranged."
"Thank you Ambassador."
"You intrigue me Mr. Young...I have never encountered a civilian that has been authorized to use this high a security clearance before, and you have gone to even greater lengths to...protect my own interests. For that you have my eternal thanks....whatever you need in the future, should it be in my ability to give---is yours."
I try not to cry.
"Thank you Ambassador...I wish there was more time, I have a great many things to talk to you about."
Jim, Scotty, and Michael are all alive!!! I want to scream at him, but refrain. There will be time yet to tell him.
"Perhaps we shall meet again Mr. Young. Until then....Live Long and Prosper."
I raise my hand in the Vulcan salute perfectly and Spock arches his eyebrow.
"I look forward to that time Ambassador. Peace, and long life."
The comm ends and I cry...I just talked to Ambassador SPOCK!!!
Next Up: We skip over "The Hunted", and "The High Ground". Nothing really happens that I can interfere with.
Q!!!!!!!!!!
"The Price" is completely butterflied when I inform Captain Picard that the Barzan wormwhole is a complete dud and is going to collapse in on itself during the talks. He wants to know how...Data and Geordi conduct tests while inside, discovering that the Alpha Quadrant side is unstable and is going to collapse. The Barzans will want proof of this however, ask the Barzans to conduct the test before the talks are granted. Convince them that this is the only way that the Federation will take part in the talks. Picard does so and the Premier allows the tests and Data and Geordi are able to confirm that the Alpha Quadrant entrance will collapse in a matter of weeks. The wormhole is worthless. Also this means the two Ferengi won't be lost in the Delta Quadrant and contaminate the planet they land on. A calculated risk, but shouldn't affect anything.
We skip over "The Vengeance Factor" as that takes place as it did on the show. I have Christy Henshaw over for dinner and cook her my lemon chicken pasta, a light leafy salad as a side, and ice cream for desert. We enjoy each other's company and she agrees to see me for a third date.
I'm awoken as my comm alerts me to report to the bridge on the double from Commander Riker...as I get there...I see that the Enterprise has encountered a Romulan scout ship being fired upon by a warbird. The Enterprise is able to chase off the warbird and beam over the occupant of the scout ship who identifies himself as Sub-Lt Setal...he informs Captain Picard that he has sensitive information that could help the Federation and wants to deflect. Oh boy. Here we go.
I am called to Captain Picard's ready room to discuss Setal's claims and Admiral Jarok is sitting there already. Picard introduces me to Jarok and I play my card now...
"Greetings Setal. It is an honor to meet you. I know that you have come to us with great risk to yourself, because you're attempting to protect your family and that you wish to be with them."
I watch as his face changes. He's suspicious of me.
"What do you know of me?"
"I know you sir, more than you're currently aware of. I know why you're being hunted by Tomalak, and by High Command." I turn to Captain Picard
"Do you remember our little encounter with Tomalak a few weeks ago sir?"
"Yes. You mentioned the Apnex Sea to him and he ran off faster than it took you to say it..." Picard is observing Setal and we both notice a visible reaction to hearing the name of his home.
I turn to face Setal again.
"Sir, with respect, not for your past, but for what you are attempting to achieve now...I am aware of the slander against you, and that you are being set up. Nelvana III has been scrubbed as part of this set up...more than likely by Tomalak and his faction. If you reveal the truth of yourself to Captain Picard now, I may have a solution to how to help you."
He looks at me.
"I don't know you..."
"No you don't. I'm asking you to trust me, and to trust the Captain, and Captain I'm asking you to trust me as well."
He glances hard at the two of us then exhales.
"I apologize for the subterfuge gentlemen, I believe that I am out of my element. Captain Picard...forgive me for my deception but I felt it was necessary...I am in truth Admiral Jarok, formerly of the Romulan High Command."
Picard gasps.
"Alidar Jarok...of the Norkan Massacre."
Jarok nods sadly.
"Yes. I was a different man then, than I am now. Now all I want is to be with my family...war...has become tiresome and destructive. It is tearing apart my people, Captain. I came here hoping to prevent a war, but it would seem that my superiors chose this as an opportunity to set me up...I suppose that I am fortunate to have, Mr. Young here as an advocate."
"Adam, what have they done?"
"There's no formal proof as one expects...but the Romulans have been busy building secret bases along various points of the neutral zone. Jarok here is sincere about why he is willing to help us, all he wants to do is retire and spend the rest of his days with his family."
Picard sighs and tugs the bottom of his uniform.
"You have placed me in a difficult position Admiral. The Federation Council has ordered me to return you to the Star Empire. However...I have come to...rely upon Mr. Young's information...it is uncannily accurate. I trust you have a plan?" he asks me
"I do, but it's complicated, and I need to utilize my network to make it happen---I'm not even sure if it will work, but I request that you trust me again."
"Very well. What do you propose we tell Tomalak?"
"Tell that bombastic oaf that the Admiral took his own life...for now there will need to be some pain sir, but I assure you that if my plan works, you'll be reunited with your family."
"I don't know either of you but somehow I trust you. Very well."
"Captain, I request permission to use communications beyond my security clearance?" which is still unusually high for a civilian.
He nods.
"I'll make sure you have whatever it is you need, Mr. Young. Good luck"
It takes me a couple of days...I honestly thought it would be way longer...but I have friends in high places now, and while they were---questioning my efforts---they allowed it due to my good standing with them. I wait patiently until suddenly---I hear HIS voice.
"Mr. Young, I presume? You have requested to with me?" The Great Man asks
"I have gone great lengths to do so...Ambassador Spock."
"We do not have much time on this channel, make your business plain"
I tell Spock about Admiral Jarok and the Romulans plan to set him up...and that I believe that he has information that would be of use to the Federation and to Spock's own...quest. We're on a triple encrypted channel so I make sure not to say out loud anything about his movement.
"I believe that I can have something arranged."
"Thank you Ambassador."
"You intrigue me Mr. Young...I have never encountered a civilian that has been authorized to use this high a security clearance before, and you have gone to even greater lengths to...protect my own interests. For that you have my eternal thanks....whatever you need in the future, should it be in my ability to give---is yours."
I try not to cry.
"Thank you Ambassador...I wish there was more time, I have a great many things to talk to you about."
Jim, Scotty, and Michael are all alive!!! I want to scream at him, but refrain. There will be time yet to tell him.
"Perhaps we shall meet again Mr. Young. Until then....Live Long and Prosper."
I raise my hand in the Vulcan salute perfectly and Spock arches his eyebrow.
"I look forward to that time Ambassador. Peace, and long life."
The comm ends and I cry...I just talked to Ambassador SPOCK!!!
Next Up: We skip over "The Hunted", and "The High Ground". Nothing really happens that I can interfere with.
Q!!!!!!!!!!
Last edited:
Chapter 26: Q Part One
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DarkDestroyer
The Destroyer Of Worlds
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Tomalak buys the story of Jarok committing suicide (that is what happened in the original episode) as Doctor Crusher puts him under for as long as medically possible to induce a coma. They leave and arrangements are made with Spock's people to take Jarok to him on Romulus.
"It will be an arduous journey but I have been assured that you will make it. I can not guarantee that you will be able to go home---but it has been arranged that your family will be relocated to wherever you will be."
The Romulan Admiral bows in gratitude to me.
"Thank you for all you have done for me Mr. Young...it is much appreciated."
"You are welcome Admiral, and good journey."
I take the next few days off as I am granted rest and relaxation for my efforts. I enjoy it as I am absolutely exhausted. Christy comes over and we just chill. I like her a lot, I am realizing and she seems to like me, yes this still astonishes me, it is due to my lack of experience, I can never tell and am always astonished. Christy reminds me that I'm in a different place and time than I'm used to...something Elizabeth constantly reminded me of.
Q drops out of the sky naked and I'm immediately requested to attend to him at the brig. I enter the brig, acknowledge the security Lt (all the security who have brig monitoring duty are Lt's or above I've noticed). I slowly approach the cell and he sits there with his arms crossed, Picard has just left him.
"Hello, Q." I say measured trying not to secretly mark out to him.
"Ah, it's the Anomaly." he replies
"Is that what the Continuum is calling me, or is that your little nickname for me?" I ask
"Does it matter....Adam?"
"So you do know who I am."
"Of course I do. We have been monitoring you since your Arrival last year."
"You heard me calling out for you when I arrived." he grins that annoying grin
"Yes, I did. I chose to ignore you."
"Why? Only you have the abilities to send me back home...why ignore me?"
"You think you are the first such reality hopper? You humans think so Two Dimensionally." he retorts annoyed
"Q!"
"My apologies....it is the Continuum's opinion that you should be allowed to stay in this reality. I protested of course. You don't belong here and the potential consequences of a prolonged stay...could be catastrophic to this timeline , however my esteemed colleagues disagreed, too curious to see how you would conduct yourself in our reality. Each reality hopper you see, is different in their....decision making process when it comes to---butterflying events. The Continuum became fascinated to see how you would deal with yours, and you haven't disappointed them...so far."
"Then I'm stuck here." I state
Q stands up and uncrosses his arms and approaches the brig door.
"Isn't THIS what you've always wanted? To be here in the...Star Trek...universe...what a droll name...if there's anything I can count on humans for it is your inability to name things...."
"Q..."
"I'm serious! You call your planet Earth---you named it after dirt."
"Q!"
"Very well...but you see my point yes? You're here for a reason. What that reason is...I couldn't fathom to guess. All of the higher beings have no idea why you're here. They're...cautious of you. You are in the process of making great changes that they...fear the consequences of. That is also why my colleagues in the Continuum are so fascinated by you, they want to wait and see all the changes you plan on making pay off."
"I'm not a character in some...story Q!"
"I'm afraid that's exactly what you mon ami, and if it was up to me...and I assure you that it isn't...you'd be back home, living your miserable life...contemplating all the..."
"Okay. Enough. I get it. It's a...privilege to be here. I know that. I'm excited to be here, believe me...it's just--"
"You're worried about your family and friends."
"Yes."
"Sigh. I'm no expert in such things, however I would hazard a guess that your reality is on pause while you are here, and that whenever you go back--IF you choose to do so, or a way is found---it will continue on as if you'd never had left in the first place."
I nod content with that...for now. Now to deal with Q's situation.
"So you've managed to piss off your colleagues enough that they saw fit to strip you of your powers...and send you here, to mull about with us mere mortals?" I ask
"Can you imagine the indignation? The embarrassment?!" John deLancie is a GOAT.
"Only you would see this as that." I reply getting annoyed but also...in a kind of weird state of awe. It's fucking Q!
"Adam, you know the future, what happens with me?" I hear the desperation in his voice...it is genuine. He's scared. Just as I'm about to repy, Data appears.
"Ah. I see you're about to be freed. As for what happens to you Q...sorry...spoilers."
It is slightly satisfying to see his face drain. I'm not unsympathetic though...
Data greets me.
"Was your conversation with Q enlightening, Adam?" he questions
I like how Data calls me by my first name because I'm still a civilian.
"Not really...no, but I didn't expect it to be. I can confirm though that Q is sincere...he is here due to punishment with the continuum. It will be some time before the others are convinced but---he needs our help...and Data...despite his usual demeaner...he's scared."
"I will make a note of that. Will you not be accompanying us?"
"Afraid not my friend, I've got a date, and I'm already late. Don't hesitate to call me if you---have any issues with Q."
Data nods and I head out of the brig.
Tomalak buys the story of Jarok committing suicide (that is what happened in the original episode) as Doctor Crusher puts him under for as long as medically possible to induce a coma. They leave and arrangements are made with Spock's people to take Jarok to him on Romulus.
"It will be an arduous journey but I have been assured that you will make it. I can not guarantee that you will be able to go home---but it has been arranged that your family will be relocated to wherever you will be."
The Romulan Admiral bows in gratitude to me.
"Thank you for all you have done for me Mr. Young...it is much appreciated."
"You are welcome Admiral, and good journey."
I take the next few days off as I am granted rest and relaxation for my efforts. I enjoy it as I am absolutely exhausted. Christy comes over and we just chill. I like her a lot, I am realizing and she seems to like me, yes this still astonishes me, it is due to my lack of experience, I can never tell and am always astonished. Christy reminds me that I'm in a different place and time than I'm used to...something Elizabeth constantly reminded me of.
Q drops out of the sky naked and I'm immediately requested to attend to him at the brig. I enter the brig, acknowledge the security Lt (all the security who have brig monitoring duty are Lt's or above I've noticed). I slowly approach the cell and he sits there with his arms crossed, Picard has just left him.
"Hello, Q." I say measured trying not to secretly mark out to him.
"Ah, it's the Anomaly." he replies
"Is that what the Continuum is calling me, or is that your little nickname for me?" I ask
"Does it matter....Adam?"
"So you do know who I am."
"Of course I do. We have been monitoring you since your Arrival last year."
"You heard me calling out for you when I arrived." he grins that annoying grin
"Yes, I did. I chose to ignore you."
"Why? Only you have the abilities to send me back home...why ignore me?"
"You think you are the first such reality hopper? You humans think so Two Dimensionally." he retorts annoyed
"Q!"
"My apologies....it is the Continuum's opinion that you should be allowed to stay in this reality. I protested of course. You don't belong here and the potential consequences of a prolonged stay...could be catastrophic to this timeline , however my esteemed colleagues disagreed, too curious to see how you would conduct yourself in our reality. Each reality hopper you see, is different in their....decision making process when it comes to---butterflying events. The Continuum became fascinated to see how you would deal with yours, and you haven't disappointed them...so far."
"Then I'm stuck here." I state
Q stands up and uncrosses his arms and approaches the brig door.
"Isn't THIS what you've always wanted? To be here in the...Star Trek...universe...what a droll name...if there's anything I can count on humans for it is your inability to name things...."
"Q..."
"I'm serious! You call your planet Earth---you named it after dirt."
"Q!"
"Very well...but you see my point yes? You're here for a reason. What that reason is...I couldn't fathom to guess. All of the higher beings have no idea why you're here. They're...cautious of you. You are in the process of making great changes that they...fear the consequences of. That is also why my colleagues in the Continuum are so fascinated by you, they want to wait and see all the changes you plan on making pay off."
"I'm not a character in some...story Q!"
"I'm afraid that's exactly what you mon ami, and if it was up to me...and I assure you that it isn't...you'd be back home, living your miserable life...contemplating all the..."
"Okay. Enough. I get it. It's a...privilege to be here. I know that. I'm excited to be here, believe me...it's just--"
"You're worried about your family and friends."
"Yes."
"Sigh. I'm no expert in such things, however I would hazard a guess that your reality is on pause while you are here, and that whenever you go back--IF you choose to do so, or a way is found---it will continue on as if you'd never had left in the first place."
I nod content with that...for now. Now to deal with Q's situation.
"So you've managed to piss off your colleagues enough that they saw fit to strip you of your powers...and send you here, to mull about with us mere mortals?" I ask
"Can you imagine the indignation? The embarrassment?!" John deLancie is a GOAT.
"Only you would see this as that." I reply getting annoyed but also...in a kind of weird state of awe. It's fucking Q!
"Adam, you know the future, what happens with me?" I hear the desperation in his voice...it is genuine. He's scared. Just as I'm about to repy, Data appears.
"Ah. I see you're about to be freed. As for what happens to you Q...sorry...spoilers."
It is slightly satisfying to see his face drain. I'm not unsympathetic though...
Data greets me.
"Was your conversation with Q enlightening, Adam?" he questions
I like how Data calls me by my first name because I'm still a civilian.
"Not really...no, but I didn't expect it to be. I can confirm though that Q is sincere...he is here due to punishment with the continuum. It will be some time before the others are convinced but---he needs our help...and Data...despite his usual demeaner...he's scared."
"I will make a note of that. Will you not be accompanying us?"
"Afraid not my friend, I've got a date, and I'm already late. Don't hesitate to call me if you---have any issues with Q."
Data nods and I head out of the brig.
Chapter 27: Q Part Two
New
DarkDestroyer
The Destroyer Of Worlds
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"That must've been quite the conversation for you."
"More than you know...but it wasn't fruitful or anything. Q's scared and this is a real thing he's dealing with...luckily he'll be cared for by one of the best."
"Data?"
I nod.
"You're off the hook about being late...we're gonna have to cut our date short I'm afraid."
"Because of the moon issue?"
She nods.
"Geordi has us running rampart as you probably already know. Stellar Cartography, Stellar Geography is working in tandem right now along with Engineering to try and figure out a solution. I don't suppose YOU have one for us?"
"It'll work itself out, I promise."
"Adam lives are on the line!"
"I know that Christy, and I promise you that no one will die from this. In fact I guarantee it, and Q will indirectly help with the solution...in spite of himself."
"I hope you're right."
"Trust me. If I thought there was a better way than...how this resolves it I would've already suggested it. But I can't interfere and inject myself into every little problem. No matter how big or small it is. Nor how much I want to---that's---a dangerous line of thinking."
Emperor Young always in the back of my mind. The sheer power. To reform a universe in my image. Is it even possible?
Christy takes my hand.
"I'm sorry. I sometimes forget the burden you carry. I know you would act if possible." I squeeze her hand and we kiss
"You'd better take off then, I'm free though after this is dealt with." I smile
"Our first midnight visit? I'm intrigued Mr. Young."
"I look forward to it sir." We kiss again and I blow out the candle as I watch her get up and leave. She's absolutely breathtaking in uniform.
I am sitting in my quarters going over a PADD---for the start of my Engineering course---sigh. Warp Dynamics 101--is Chapter One. This is confusing as hell. There are little animations and what not that show me how to do things, but the actual physics behind it---uh--no. Over my head. Just let me push the little button on the console and say engage? No? I need to know this shit? Damn. I suddenly hear a familiar sound effect.
"MON AMI!!!!"
"We're not friends Q."
"Not yet! Give it time though! You'll see what an impressionable fellow I am!"
"Congratulations on getting your powers back, no thanks to Data's help." I say
"Yes. I was quite impressed with the way Pinocchio played his role...and before you admonish me for that comment, I am in his debt and repaid him for it."
"His belly laugh on the bridge."
"A taste of what waits for him."
I smile sadly.
"That was a nice gesture."
"It's the least I could have done."
"So why are you here Q? You have your powers back, you're free to go." I hint implying I want him gone
He sits down on the couch and crosses his arms.
"I am here to talk about you of course."
I place down the PADD.
"What's been decided? I apologize about before. But I can't give details about the future---including to omnipotent super beings stripped of their abilities."
He nods.
"A decision has been made about you. I spoke briefly with Q about you---and he said that they still are curious to see how this plays out---so your fate as it were, has been left to me."
"Oh joy."
He holds up his hand.
"I assure you that it isn't as bad as all that. However, I give you a choice. You may come back with me now...you'll be returned home, none of this will have happened, or mattered. Or when the time is right---I will return for you and you'll go back. No doubt you're going to want to lean towards staying here---so we will give you the time to do so." he says
"How long?"
"That my friend, is entirely up to you." he uncrosses his arms and gets up in his Captain's uniform
"Is this a trial?" I smile
"Not as such...but perhaps a probationary...condition." he states
"I accept your terms Q. You have my word when the time comes, that I'll go back."
"Excellent. Then my time here is over mon ami. A bit of advice before I head off?"
I nod.
"Enjoy yourself while you are here Adam. This is a wonderous place as you are aware of. It is also incredibly dangerous--even more so than YOU are aware. Take this as a gift as it has been given. Relish it. You've been given an opportunity that many would kill for---don't squander it....and be careful of the decisions that you DO make---they will have consequences, and you don't have any do-overs." He says
"I will Q. Thank you. Until next time."
He parts his hand from his head and vanishes.
Up Next: Our first "event episode". "Yesterday's Enterprise" (but we might squeeze in some things before then).
"That must've been quite the conversation for you."
"More than you know...but it wasn't fruitful or anything. Q's scared and this is a real thing he's dealing with...luckily he'll be cared for by one of the best."
"Data?"
I nod.
"You're off the hook about being late...we're gonna have to cut our date short I'm afraid."
"Because of the moon issue?"
She nods.
"Geordi has us running rampart as you probably already know. Stellar Cartography, Stellar Geography is working in tandem right now along with Engineering to try and figure out a solution. I don't suppose YOU have one for us?"
"It'll work itself out, I promise."
"Adam lives are on the line!"
"I know that Christy, and I promise you that no one will die from this. In fact I guarantee it, and Q will indirectly help with the solution...in spite of himself."
"I hope you're right."
"Trust me. If I thought there was a better way than...how this resolves it I would've already suggested it. But I can't interfere and inject myself into every little problem. No matter how big or small it is. Nor how much I want to---that's---a dangerous line of thinking."
Emperor Young always in the back of my mind. The sheer power. To reform a universe in my image. Is it even possible?
Christy takes my hand.
"I'm sorry. I sometimes forget the burden you carry. I know you would act if possible." I squeeze her hand and we kiss
"You'd better take off then, I'm free though after this is dealt with." I smile
"Our first midnight visit? I'm intrigued Mr. Young."
"I look forward to it sir." We kiss again and I blow out the candle as I watch her get up and leave. She's absolutely breathtaking in uniform.
I am sitting in my quarters going over a PADD---for the start of my Engineering course---sigh. Warp Dynamics 101--is Chapter One. This is confusing as hell. There are little animations and what not that show me how to do things, but the actual physics behind it---uh--no. Over my head. Just let me push the little button on the console and say engage? No? I need to know this shit? Damn. I suddenly hear a familiar sound effect.
"MON AMI!!!!"
"We're not friends Q."
"Not yet! Give it time though! You'll see what an impressionable fellow I am!"
"Congratulations on getting your powers back, no thanks to Data's help." I say
"Yes. I was quite impressed with the way Pinocchio played his role...and before you admonish me for that comment, I am in his debt and repaid him for it."
"His belly laugh on the bridge."
"A taste of what waits for him."
I smile sadly.
"That was a nice gesture."
"It's the least I could have done."
"So why are you here Q? You have your powers back, you're free to go." I hint implying I want him gone
He sits down on the couch and crosses his arms.
"I am here to talk about you of course."
I place down the PADD.
"What's been decided? I apologize about before. But I can't give details about the future---including to omnipotent super beings stripped of their abilities."
He nods.
"A decision has been made about you. I spoke briefly with Q about you---and he said that they still are curious to see how this plays out---so your fate as it were, has been left to me."
"Oh joy."
He holds up his hand.
"I assure you that it isn't as bad as all that. However, I give you a choice. You may come back with me now...you'll be returned home, none of this will have happened, or mattered. Or when the time is right---I will return for you and you'll go back. No doubt you're going to want to lean towards staying here---so we will give you the time to do so." he says
"How long?"
"That my friend, is entirely up to you." he uncrosses his arms and gets up in his Captain's uniform
"Is this a trial?" I smile
"Not as such...but perhaps a probationary...condition." he states
"I accept your terms Q. You have my word when the time comes, that I'll go back."
"Excellent. Then my time here is over mon ami. A bit of advice before I head off?"
I nod.
"Enjoy yourself while you are here Adam. This is a wonderous place as you are aware of. It is also incredibly dangerous--even more so than YOU are aware. Take this as a gift as it has been given. Relish it. You've been given an opportunity that many would kill for---don't squander it....and be careful of the decisions that you DO make---they will have consequences, and you don't have any do-overs." He says
"I will Q. Thank you. Until next time."
He parts his hand from his head and vanishes.
Up Next: Our first "event episode". "Yesterday's Enterprise" (but we might squeeze in some things before then).
Chapter 28: Yesterday's Enterprise
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Author's Note: I was going to squeeze in a couple of chapters before this...but I think we'll do that AFTER this now.
I wake up to Nurse Ogawa hovering over me. All kinds of commotion in sickbay right now. That's probably not unusual for this reality now that I think about it...
"Doctor, he's awake."
Beverly peers down over me, injects me with a hypospray.
"This should clear up the vertigo. How are you feeling?" she asks
"Like I got run over by a truck...w-what happened?"
"You feinted on the bridge. Nearly concussed yourself actually. But you're okay."
"Doctor, I need you to scan me for tachyon traces."
The throbbing begins again. I reach up...
"Ahhh...my head again..."
"Headaches?" she asks I nod she scans me with the medical tricorder
"That's extremely odd."
"Yes?"
"There are high concentrations of tachyons all OVER you..."
"I was afraid of this..." I start to get up she puts her on my chest to stop me
"What do you think you're doing Ensign?"
"I am getting up---there's something wrong Doctor...and I need to tell the Captain."
Then I see her, two bed's over from me. Her scarred face...torn open flak jacket.
"Captain Garret..." I mutter.
"Yes they just brought in from the Enterprise-C. I've managed to stabilize most of her wounds, they were in a fire fight...."
"Against the Romulans, yes. Doctor--Beverly---I need to tell--
Captain Picard walks in then just to come check on Garrett. Beverly pushes me back down on the bio-bed gently.
"Stay here...if you move, I'll have Selar come over here and restrain you. That is an order Ensign. Understood?"
"Aye sir."
Captain Picard has his conversion with Captain Garrett, while I half listen, attempt to figure out how the hell I have come here. I'm me...but there's an alternate version of me here too. How's that even possible? Where is he? Did he go over to my universe? Is he in limbo somewhere? Tasha...what the fuck is going on here? Picard then comes over to see me and I snap out of my thoughts.
"Are you all right?" he asks in that gentle concerned voice of his
"No sir. I'm not all right. There's a situation going on here and not just the one involving Captain Garrett."
"Explain."
"This is going to sound...weird...but I'm not ME."
Picard makes an annoyed expression...I nearly laugh, but it's his serious fuck off with the nonsense face.
"What do you mean, you're not YOU? Adam...I'm in no mood---"
"I'm an alternate reality version of YOUR Adam Young. I don't belong here sir---somehow I transferred here from my own universe just as the Enterprise-C emerged from the temporal vortex. I had Beverly scan me for tachyons--I'm covered in them, sir."
Picard sighs.
"The timing of this couldn't be worse. I trust you still have your memories?" he asks
I nod...
"Yes, but they're different. They're...memories of the show from MY reality which is different than this one."
"How so?"
"Well...for one we're not at war with the Klingons, and the Enterprise is not a military ship."
"What?" he breathes.
"There's one person on the ship who I believe can corroborate my story sir..." Picard immediately realizes who I am referring to.
"Guinan..."
"Yes sir. I believe Guinan has detected the change in reality as well."
"What do you suggest?"
"Talk to Guinan...she'll confirm that none of this is supposed to be happening...and how to fix it."
Picard nods.
"Very well---you follow the Doctor's orders. I will talk with you later."
"Aye sir."
I watch as Picard leaves sickbay....and glance over at Captain Garret. I'm suddenly overwhelmed by history---and the throbbing happens again as I fall back in the bed and pass out again...
Doctor Crusher releases me shortly after Captain Picard leaves. I'd like to linger and talk with Captain Garrett frankly, but I have more pressing matters to attend to. I head directly for my quarters---and I find...Lieutenant Yar waiting for me there.
"Lieutenant." I say formally, but she has none of it and my suspicions are correct, as she reaches a hand to touch my face
"Are you all right? You gave us quite the scare."
I reach out and move her hand from me...I'm...unsure how to proceed here. All of this is out of my experience. I have no idea what is going on, or how this is possible.
"I'll be okay...just a bit of a bump. Doctor Crusher says I'll be able to return to duty in the morning. Technically I'm grounded for now."
I have no idea what I'm doing here in terms of technical information. This version of me has a step up on me...I'm slightly jealous.
"What's wrong? Why are you..."
"Tasha...there's something I need to tell you."
We sit down on the couch and I tell her...and wait for her reaction. There is none because there's no better pro than Tasha Yar, in any reality. Fuck you Armus. You robbed the universe of a great light.
"You're from another reality where we're at peace with the Klingons?"
"Yeah, they're one of our closest allies."
"Tasha, we don't have much time. I don't know what is going on here, and you have a duty to perform."
"My Adam?" I shake my head
"I don't know. I'm sure though he is safe where ever he is...it's strange...I have his memories."
"Then you know how much I love him..."
"I know that he loves you equally...if not more." I reply and she smiles. She kisses my cheek.
"We'll talk more when I come back."
I sigh.
"I look forward to it."
She gets up and leaves just as the order for her to report to the Transporter room comes over the comm. This is so weird. I watch her leave and go immediately to work.
"Computer...display and read out service record of Acting Ensign Adam Christopher Young---beginning from the day of my arrival into this reality."
"Acknowledged, standby."
The computer says that I Arrived in this reality on Stardate 41723.9---which puts it around "The Battle" in the Roddenberry Timeline or the Prime Timeline. That means when the Ferengi attempted to use the Stargazer to fuck with Captain Picard...that didn't happen in this timeline. The Klingon War dominates this timeline. There have been several as well, starting way back with Burnham. There are no Organians in this reality. I don't recognize any of the missions in this reality---they're almost all battles. Then I see it...
"Sterilization of the creature known as Armus on planet Vaga II."
"Wait...computer pause. How was Armus destroyed?"
"Special Consultant Young deemed it necessary to terminate the entity known as Armus. Captain Picard approved this suggestion and the Enterprise used photon torpedoes to destroy the entity."
I sit in silence, stunned. I recommended the destruction of a living thing. How different is that though from the Borg Virus...I reach up and place my face in both hands. I start crying...not because Armus deserves to live---but because---I---I---
"Computer continue."
This version of me was given a commendation for the efforts against Armus. I shake my head....
"Computer pause. Read personal log for the period of time following the Armus incident. Mention any references made to Tasha Yar."
I am correct in my theory...the two of them got together shortly after this. Tasha impressed by my---bravery. Apparently I was on the away mission on the planet--and saved Tasha from Armus...that must've not been pleasant for variant me. Doctor Crusher was able to heal my wounds. Wait a minute.
"Computer...why was the Enterprise originally on Vaga II?"
In my reality it was to rescue Deanna and Lieutenant Ben Prieto...
"The Enterprise responded to a distress signal sent by Political Officer Lieutenant-Commander Deanna Troi who was attending a Tactical Conference---and Lt. Ben Prieto."
"Computer---what happened to them?"
"They were killed by Armus."
I pause, stunned again. That must've been it. It was retaliation to what he did to Deanna and Ben...and to save Tasha. My headache is coming back.
"Computer when was I made Acting Ensign?"
"Stardate 42923.4"
"What occurred on that date?"
"The Enterprise was conducting battle simulations to test upgraded weapons systems overseen by the Zadorn strategist, Kolrami, when the ship was attacked by a Ferengi cruiser attempting to take advantage of the situation. Consultant Young used a unique maneuver and took temporary command of the ship during the simulation to resolve the situation allowing the Enterprise to destroy the Ferengi vessel and proceed to rendezvous with the USS Hathaway. "
This version of me is a cocky son of a bitch.
"Captain Picard gave him a battlefield commission?"
"Correct."
"Am I--
Before I can go further I'm called by Commander Riker.
"Riker to Young."
"Young here sir."
"Captain Picard requests that you report to his ready room immediately."
"Aye sir. I'm on my way."
I report to the ready room and as I expected...he's not happy. Guinan is there, and she's MY Guinan.
"Guinan." I say casually
"Guinan has confirmed what you have told me already."
"Sir...I know you don't want to send them back...but I don't belong here...this timeline isn't meant to be. The timeline shift occurred as soon as the Enterprise-C entered into that rift. It needs to go back so that history can be restored and this...nightmarish variant can be---"
"I understand Mr. Young, but as I told Guinan I'm not going to send them to die---"
"Sir...they're supposed to die. They are heralded as kind of folk heroes in the Empire. Captain Garrett is known as the Red Lady after the news of their heroics reaches Qo'nos. There's been too much bloodshed and loss here already---we need to stop it, and this is the only way. I know the war is going badly. We're losing, on the verge of defeat."
Picard looks pained...and wary. He's been fighting this war almost from the beginning of it.
"Sir...you want a guarantee that they succeed? I am that guarantee. I think I have possibly---merged with YOUR Adam. I share his memories, but don't have any of his tactical or operational knowledge. If you ordered me to my post---there's no way I could operate that console, but I have his memories of this timeline...."
"You are willing to condone Tasha to death..." he is really angry about this and I can't blame him. We're asking him to sacrifice his existence...that's a scary thing.
"Tasha is supposed to be dead as Guinan told you. I don't like it any more than you do...but Deanna and Ben are alive in my reality. We are talking about trading lives for lives Captain----I know this is a heavy topic and the ramifications of which are, staggering...but we're also talking about ending a war that has taken 40 Billion lives, ripped apart the fabric of this Federation, and SHOULD NEVER HAVE HAPPENED. The Enterprise-C needs to go back. It is the only way to restore the timeline."
"Captain...you trust Guinan...she's usually right about everything like this. You've known me for about a minute---but you've known your version of me for two plus years. You made him an active officer because he earned your trust. I'm doing that with my Captain Picard as well--I'm asking you to trust me the way you trust Guinan."
I am dismissed and the episode unfolds largely as it does in our reality. Tasha goes aboard the Enterprise-C and works with Lt. Castillo to do their best to fix the Enterprise-C. I stay in my quarters. I feel utterly useless. I am envious of the other me, he has what I am working towards in my reality...to be an officer. I wait and wait---then...I hear the door chime beep. It is Tasha.
"Hello Tasha."
"You know why I've come."
"You're going over to the Enterprise-C...you know the truth now."
"Yes. I know what I have to do. I came to say Good Journey."
I smile.
"I want you to know that he loves you with all of his heart, as I would have if you and I---"
She strokes my cheek. I think that was their thing, so I reach up and stroke hers.
"I can't tell you anything...despite myself...it's eating me alive but I do have one piece of advice."
"I'll take anything."
We're inches apart now. Our bodies resting up against each other. I can hear her heart beat. The other me was lucky.
"Whatever happens...stay close to Richard. He's a good man. He'll protect you even though you don't need it. I wish I could say more..."
"You've said enough."
We kiss long and hard. I wrap my arms around her waist, and she embraces me tightly. She doesn't care that I'm not him---I break contact.
"You need to go. I'm so sorry Tasha. You deserve better."
"I GOT better...you gave me two extra years. You saved me from that creature. I'll never forget that Adam, or you. I love you."
"Good Journey Tasha." tears streak from my eyes as I wipe them away from my cheek as I watch her go.
A few more minutes then I hear Captain Picard over the ship wide comm.
" Attention all hands. As you know, we could outrun the Klingon vessels, but we must protect the Enterprise-C until she enters the temporal rift. And we must succeed. Let's make sure history never forgets the name Enterprise. Picard out."
"Give him hell Captain."
I look out my port hole and see the three Klingon K'Vort Class vessels bear down on us...the Enterprise-C takes a pounding from two of the vessels as she makes her way through the swirling vortex. In my head I watch the battle play out switching from Picard's point of view on the bridge and then the battle outside in space...and then...
A weird wave washes over me and my headache stops throbbing...I'm still sitting on the couch in my quarters...but it's lighter...I immediately tap my comm badge.
"Young to Captain Picard."
"Picard here."
"Is...everything all right up there Captain?"
There's a pause as I'd imagine Guinan just had done the same thing. I imagine Picard and Riker exchanging glances.
"Guinan's just asked the same thing...everything is fine Mr. Young. Are you okay?"
"Yes sir...but I think Guinan and I both have a doozy of a story to tell you about later on."
"Understood, I look forward to it. Picard out."
A little while later I press the door chime to Data's quarters.
"Hi Data. I hope I'm not disturbing you?"
Spot upon seeing me crawls over and starts rubbing up against my legs and purring. He knows I'm a cat person.
"Not at all Adam. How may I help you?"
"I was hoping Data, that you could tell me...about Tasha Yar."
He nods, I pick up Spot and head into Data's quarters.
Author's Note: I was going to squeeze in a couple of chapters before this...but I think we'll do that AFTER this now.
I wake up to Nurse Ogawa hovering over me. All kinds of commotion in sickbay right now. That's probably not unusual for this reality now that I think about it...
"Doctor, he's awake."
Beverly peers down over me, injects me with a hypospray.
"This should clear up the vertigo. How are you feeling?" she asks
"Like I got run over by a truck...w-what happened?"
"You feinted on the bridge. Nearly concussed yourself actually. But you're okay."
"Doctor, I need you to scan me for tachyon traces."
The throbbing begins again. I reach up...
"Ahhh...my head again..."
"Headaches?" she asks I nod she scans me with the medical tricorder
"That's extremely odd."
"Yes?"
"There are high concentrations of tachyons all OVER you..."
"I was afraid of this..." I start to get up she puts her on my chest to stop me
"What do you think you're doing Ensign?"
"I am getting up---there's something wrong Doctor...and I need to tell the Captain."
Then I see her, two bed's over from me. Her scarred face...torn open flak jacket.
"Captain Garret..." I mutter.
"Yes they just brought in from the Enterprise-C. I've managed to stabilize most of her wounds, they were in a fire fight...."
"Against the Romulans, yes. Doctor--Beverly---I need to tell--
Captain Picard walks in then just to come check on Garrett. Beverly pushes me back down on the bio-bed gently.
"Stay here...if you move, I'll have Selar come over here and restrain you. That is an order Ensign. Understood?"
"Aye sir."
Captain Picard has his conversion with Captain Garrett, while I half listen, attempt to figure out how the hell I have come here. I'm me...but there's an alternate version of me here too. How's that even possible? Where is he? Did he go over to my universe? Is he in limbo somewhere? Tasha...what the fuck is going on here? Picard then comes over to see me and I snap out of my thoughts.
"Are you all right?" he asks in that gentle concerned voice of his
"No sir. I'm not all right. There's a situation going on here and not just the one involving Captain Garrett."
"Explain."
"This is going to sound...weird...but I'm not ME."
Picard makes an annoyed expression...I nearly laugh, but it's his serious fuck off with the nonsense face.
"What do you mean, you're not YOU? Adam...I'm in no mood---"
"I'm an alternate reality version of YOUR Adam Young. I don't belong here sir---somehow I transferred here from my own universe just as the Enterprise-C emerged from the temporal vortex. I had Beverly scan me for tachyons--I'm covered in them, sir."
Picard sighs.
"The timing of this couldn't be worse. I trust you still have your memories?" he asks
I nod...
"Yes, but they're different. They're...memories of the show from MY reality which is different than this one."
"How so?"
"Well...for one we're not at war with the Klingons, and the Enterprise is not a military ship."
"What?" he breathes.
"There's one person on the ship who I believe can corroborate my story sir..." Picard immediately realizes who I am referring to.
"Guinan..."
"Yes sir. I believe Guinan has detected the change in reality as well."
"What do you suggest?"
"Talk to Guinan...she'll confirm that none of this is supposed to be happening...and how to fix it."
Picard nods.
"Very well---you follow the Doctor's orders. I will talk with you later."
"Aye sir."
I watch as Picard leaves sickbay....and glance over at Captain Garret. I'm suddenly overwhelmed by history---and the throbbing happens again as I fall back in the bed and pass out again...
Doctor Crusher releases me shortly after Captain Picard leaves. I'd like to linger and talk with Captain Garrett frankly, but I have more pressing matters to attend to. I head directly for my quarters---and I find...Lieutenant Yar waiting for me there.
"Lieutenant." I say formally, but she has none of it and my suspicions are correct, as she reaches a hand to touch my face
"Are you all right? You gave us quite the scare."
I reach out and move her hand from me...I'm...unsure how to proceed here. All of this is out of my experience. I have no idea what is going on, or how this is possible.
"I'll be okay...just a bit of a bump. Doctor Crusher says I'll be able to return to duty in the morning. Technically I'm grounded for now."
I have no idea what I'm doing here in terms of technical information. This version of me has a step up on me...I'm slightly jealous.
"What's wrong? Why are you..."
"Tasha...there's something I need to tell you."
We sit down on the couch and I tell her...and wait for her reaction. There is none because there's no better pro than Tasha Yar, in any reality. Fuck you Armus. You robbed the universe of a great light.
"You're from another reality where we're at peace with the Klingons?"
"Yeah, they're one of our closest allies."
"Tasha, we don't have much time. I don't know what is going on here, and you have a duty to perform."
"My Adam?" I shake my head
"I don't know. I'm sure though he is safe where ever he is...it's strange...I have his memories."
"Then you know how much I love him..."
"I know that he loves you equally...if not more." I reply and she smiles. She kisses my cheek.
"We'll talk more when I come back."
I sigh.
"I look forward to it."
She gets up and leaves just as the order for her to report to the Transporter room comes over the comm. This is so weird. I watch her leave and go immediately to work.
"Computer...display and read out service record of Acting Ensign Adam Christopher Young---beginning from the day of my arrival into this reality."
"Acknowledged, standby."
The computer says that I Arrived in this reality on Stardate 41723.9---which puts it around "The Battle" in the Roddenberry Timeline or the Prime Timeline. That means when the Ferengi attempted to use the Stargazer to fuck with Captain Picard...that didn't happen in this timeline. The Klingon War dominates this timeline. There have been several as well, starting way back with Burnham. There are no Organians in this reality. I don't recognize any of the missions in this reality---they're almost all battles. Then I see it...
"Sterilization of the creature known as Armus on planet Vaga II."
"Wait...computer pause. How was Armus destroyed?"
"Special Consultant Young deemed it necessary to terminate the entity known as Armus. Captain Picard approved this suggestion and the Enterprise used photon torpedoes to destroy the entity."
I sit in silence, stunned. I recommended the destruction of a living thing. How different is that though from the Borg Virus...I reach up and place my face in both hands. I start crying...not because Armus deserves to live---but because---I---I---
"Computer continue."
This version of me was given a commendation for the efforts against Armus. I shake my head....
"Computer pause. Read personal log for the period of time following the Armus incident. Mention any references made to Tasha Yar."
I am correct in my theory...the two of them got together shortly after this. Tasha impressed by my---bravery. Apparently I was on the away mission on the planet--and saved Tasha from Armus...that must've not been pleasant for variant me. Doctor Crusher was able to heal my wounds. Wait a minute.
"Computer...why was the Enterprise originally on Vaga II?"
In my reality it was to rescue Deanna and Lieutenant Ben Prieto...
"The Enterprise responded to a distress signal sent by Political Officer Lieutenant-Commander Deanna Troi who was attending a Tactical Conference---and Lt. Ben Prieto."
"Computer---what happened to them?"
"They were killed by Armus."
I pause, stunned again. That must've been it. It was retaliation to what he did to Deanna and Ben...and to save Tasha. My headache is coming back.
"Computer when was I made Acting Ensign?"
"Stardate 42923.4"
"What occurred on that date?"
"The Enterprise was conducting battle simulations to test upgraded weapons systems overseen by the Zadorn strategist, Kolrami, when the ship was attacked by a Ferengi cruiser attempting to take advantage of the situation. Consultant Young used a unique maneuver and took temporary command of the ship during the simulation to resolve the situation allowing the Enterprise to destroy the Ferengi vessel and proceed to rendezvous with the USS Hathaway. "
This version of me is a cocky son of a bitch.
"Captain Picard gave him a battlefield commission?"
"Correct."
"Am I--
Before I can go further I'm called by Commander Riker.
"Riker to Young."
"Young here sir."
"Captain Picard requests that you report to his ready room immediately."
"Aye sir. I'm on my way."
I report to the ready room and as I expected...he's not happy. Guinan is there, and she's MY Guinan.
"Guinan." I say casually
"Guinan has confirmed what you have told me already."
"Sir...I know you don't want to send them back...but I don't belong here...this timeline isn't meant to be. The timeline shift occurred as soon as the Enterprise-C entered into that rift. It needs to go back so that history can be restored and this...nightmarish variant can be---"
"I understand Mr. Young, but as I told Guinan I'm not going to send them to die---"
"Sir...they're supposed to die. They are heralded as kind of folk heroes in the Empire. Captain Garrett is known as the Red Lady after the news of their heroics reaches Qo'nos. There's been too much bloodshed and loss here already---we need to stop it, and this is the only way. I know the war is going badly. We're losing, on the verge of defeat."
Picard looks pained...and wary. He's been fighting this war almost from the beginning of it.
"Sir...you want a guarantee that they succeed? I am that guarantee. I think I have possibly---merged with YOUR Adam. I share his memories, but don't have any of his tactical or operational knowledge. If you ordered me to my post---there's no way I could operate that console, but I have his memories of this timeline...."
"You are willing to condone Tasha to death..." he is really angry about this and I can't blame him. We're asking him to sacrifice his existence...that's a scary thing.
"Tasha is supposed to be dead as Guinan told you. I don't like it any more than you do...but Deanna and Ben are alive in my reality. We are talking about trading lives for lives Captain----I know this is a heavy topic and the ramifications of which are, staggering...but we're also talking about ending a war that has taken 40 Billion lives, ripped apart the fabric of this Federation, and SHOULD NEVER HAVE HAPPENED. The Enterprise-C needs to go back. It is the only way to restore the timeline."
"Captain...you trust Guinan...she's usually right about everything like this. You've known me for about a minute---but you've known your version of me for two plus years. You made him an active officer because he earned your trust. I'm doing that with my Captain Picard as well--I'm asking you to trust me the way you trust Guinan."
I am dismissed and the episode unfolds largely as it does in our reality. Tasha goes aboard the Enterprise-C and works with Lt. Castillo to do their best to fix the Enterprise-C. I stay in my quarters. I feel utterly useless. I am envious of the other me, he has what I am working towards in my reality...to be an officer. I wait and wait---then...I hear the door chime beep. It is Tasha.
"Hello Tasha."
"You know why I've come."
"You're going over to the Enterprise-C...you know the truth now."
"Yes. I know what I have to do. I came to say Good Journey."
I smile.
"I want you to know that he loves you with all of his heart, as I would have if you and I---"
She strokes my cheek. I think that was their thing, so I reach up and stroke hers.
"I can't tell you anything...despite myself...it's eating me alive but I do have one piece of advice."
"I'll take anything."
We're inches apart now. Our bodies resting up against each other. I can hear her heart beat. The other me was lucky.
"Whatever happens...stay close to Richard. He's a good man. He'll protect you even though you don't need it. I wish I could say more..."
"You've said enough."
We kiss long and hard. I wrap my arms around her waist, and she embraces me tightly. She doesn't care that I'm not him---I break contact.
"You need to go. I'm so sorry Tasha. You deserve better."
"I GOT better...you gave me two extra years. You saved me from that creature. I'll never forget that Adam, or you. I love you."
"Good Journey Tasha." tears streak from my eyes as I wipe them away from my cheek as I watch her go.
A few more minutes then I hear Captain Picard over the ship wide comm.
" Attention all hands. As you know, we could outrun the Klingon vessels, but we must protect the Enterprise-C until she enters the temporal rift. And we must succeed. Let's make sure history never forgets the name Enterprise. Picard out."
"Give him hell Captain."
I look out my port hole and see the three Klingon K'Vort Class vessels bear down on us...the Enterprise-C takes a pounding from two of the vessels as she makes her way through the swirling vortex. In my head I watch the battle play out switching from Picard's point of view on the bridge and then the battle outside in space...and then...
A weird wave washes over me and my headache stops throbbing...I'm still sitting on the couch in my quarters...but it's lighter...I immediately tap my comm badge.
"Young to Captain Picard."
"Picard here."
"Is...everything all right up there Captain?"
There's a pause as I'd imagine Guinan just had done the same thing. I imagine Picard and Riker exchanging glances.
"Guinan's just asked the same thing...everything is fine Mr. Young. Are you okay?"
"Yes sir...but I think Guinan and I both have a doozy of a story to tell you about later on."
"Understood, I look forward to it. Picard out."
A little while later I press the door chime to Data's quarters.
"Hi Data. I hope I'm not disturbing you?"
Spot upon seeing me crawls over and starts rubbing up against my legs and purring. He knows I'm a cat person.
"Not at all Adam. How may I help you?"
"I was hoping Data, that you could tell me...about Tasha Yar."
He nods, I pick up Spot and head into Data's quarters.
Chapter 29: Shifting Perceptions
New
DarkDestroyer
The Destroyer Of Worlds
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Paramout-SkyDance Own Star Trek. For Entertainment Purposes Only. Non-Profit.
It is several days after experiencing "Yesterday's Enterprise" and I'm not myself. That whole entire thing was surreal. I wasn't expecting it to be an emotional roller coaster ride like it was, due to the Tasha Yar...wrench. Tasha...I'm so sorry. I didn't get to interact with Castillo. He seemed like a good man from the episode proper, and Christopher McDonald is one of my favourite character actors. My thoughts have also brought up Sela. The Other Me...potentially tosses that whole thing up in the air, but my gut and heart tell me that I will still see her in this timeline. Data and I spend hours talking about Tasha Yar proper. I tell him that I wish I had arrived a year earlier so that I could have saved her, and tell him the Other Me managed to do just that. It is clear in spite of having "no emotions" that Data loved Tasha. Their one night stand due to the Psi-Virus clearly left a lasting impression on him, so much so that his little holographic projection of her is one of his most cherished personal items.
Doctor Crusher conducts a full medical examination of me upon my return to this timeline, and notes I did indeed have traces of tachyons on me. No one can provide an explanation of how the time shift occurred---or even why Guinan seemed to be part of it either. In order to attempt to get my mind off of Tasha I head to the holodeck. I lift my hand up to the panel...hesitate...it would be so easy to do...but then shake my head and in put the program I am here for.
"Program complete. Enter when ready."
With my other hand I raise the phaser I brought with me and program it. Relax. It is a training phaser. The only type I am authorized to use.
"Computer, begin training program. Level 3."
"Program starting."
I have chosen the holodeck instead of the Enterprise's Phaser Range's because the holodeck allows for a degree more customization than the ranges do. I still programmed it to reflect the look of the range with the circular platform which I step into. As in the show proper, the wall lights up when target is display...and I fire accordingly to match it. My speed is not quite there yet but I've managed to already surpass levels 1 and 2. The wall lights increase their speed as the difficulty becomes harder. Multiple lights are multiple targets....I am not at that point yet and the program knows it. It stops, as I hear the holodeck doors open and I turn around.
"Guinan..." I say. I haven't gone to see her since we...or I came back
"I hope I'm not intruding." she says
"Not at all. I assume you're joining me to talk about what happened?" I ask
"Since you have been avoiding me, I thought it was prudent." She crosses her arms in front of her and she's holding a phaser
"I'm not very good." I state
"You're not concentrating hard enough." she replies
"Computer resume program, current level."
"But you're at a---" Quick as lightning she raises her arm and fires at multiple targets all in one swift motion as if she were cutting through butter with a knife.
"Again, focus." she says
The program resumes and the wall lights up doing it's thing. I focus now. I raise my phaser and hit them all now.
"Good. That was very good." she compliments
"Thank you. Will you train me? I'm aware of your weapons...training. Or usage for lack of a better term. It was something that was incredibly underdeveloped with your character." I ask
Guinan chuckles
"I would like that. It will give us time to get to know each other. How's your studying going?" she asks
"To be honest...not as well as I expected. I'm just pulling by. I knew that this would be the case, but it's been a bit depressing." I reply
"Might I make a suggestion?"
"Always."
"I suggest you focus primarily on your strengths, rather than focusing on your weaknesses with the practical application. Also...security is an option that I would consider, it's not all about being shot at, and Worf is a surprisingly great teacher." she says
Frankly anything but command---I've considered as a bust, but security might be the one thing I could excel at. Guinan's right.
"He was taught by the best." I say sadly
"You know that wasn't Tasha Yar, Adam. That was HIS, Tasha. You were given yet another unique experience, a slice of possibility." Guinan says with that twinkle in her eye
"I know that. I knew that while I was there, I knew that while pressing for the Enterprise-C and HER to go back...but I can't help how I felt. I guess that---was from my conscience? The fact that I've had some kind of crush on all these people and that it is manifesting in whatever....THIS---" I sweep my hands for further effect
"Is supposed to be?" I finish
"It could be." she replies
"Was that OTHER you...YOU? I've always been confused about this." I ask and of course she just smiles
"That is an interesting question isn't it? What does your gut tell you?" she asks
"I don't know now. I think being in this reality is starting to...alter previous intact events...the longer I remain here and enact the changes that I have been making... My own personal guess is that it wasn't, that you're El-Aurian sensibilities enable you to detect shifting dimensions and....folks from them. As you knew that I was already....but I don't know. It's all timey wimey."
"That's a term I haven't heard of in a very long time...." she motions for the door
"We're done already?" I ask
"Here we're done. We'll continue the lesson another day. I think we have more to talk about, we can do that at Ten Forward. I know you could use a drink about now..."
It is several days after experiencing "Yesterday's Enterprise" and I'm not myself. That whole entire thing was surreal. I wasn't expecting it to be an emotional roller coaster ride like it was, due to the Tasha Yar...wrench. Tasha...I'm so sorry. I didn't get to interact with Castillo. He seemed like a good man from the episode proper, and Christopher McDonald is one of my favourite character actors. My thoughts have also brought up Sela. The Other Me...potentially tosses that whole thing up in the air, but my gut and heart tell me that I will still see her in this timeline. Data and I spend hours talking about Tasha Yar proper. I tell him that I wish I had arrived a year earlier so that I could have saved her, and tell him the Other Me managed to do just that. It is clear in spite of having "no emotions" that Data loved Tasha. Their one night stand due to the Psi-Virus clearly left a lasting impression on him, so much so that his little holographic projection of her is one of his most cherished personal items.
Doctor Crusher conducts a full medical examination of me upon my return to this timeline, and notes I did indeed have traces of tachyons on me. No one can provide an explanation of how the time shift occurred---or even why Guinan seemed to be part of it either. In order to attempt to get my mind off of Tasha I head to the holodeck. I lift my hand up to the panel...hesitate...it would be so easy to do...but then shake my head and in put the program I am here for.
"Program complete. Enter when ready."
With my other hand I raise the phaser I brought with me and program it. Relax. It is a training phaser. The only type I am authorized to use.
"Computer, begin training program. Level 3."
"Program starting."
I have chosen the holodeck instead of the Enterprise's Phaser Range's because the holodeck allows for a degree more customization than the ranges do. I still programmed it to reflect the look of the range with the circular platform which I step into. As in the show proper, the wall lights up when target is display...and I fire accordingly to match it. My speed is not quite there yet but I've managed to already surpass levels 1 and 2. The wall lights increase their speed as the difficulty becomes harder. Multiple lights are multiple targets....I am not at that point yet and the program knows it. It stops, as I hear the holodeck doors open and I turn around.
"Guinan..." I say. I haven't gone to see her since we...or I came back
"I hope I'm not intruding." she says
"Not at all. I assume you're joining me to talk about what happened?" I ask
"Since you have been avoiding me, I thought it was prudent." She crosses her arms in front of her and she's holding a phaser
"I'm not very good." I state
"You're not concentrating hard enough." she replies
"Computer resume program, current level."
"But you're at a---" Quick as lightning she raises her arm and fires at multiple targets all in one swift motion as if she were cutting through butter with a knife.
"Again, focus." she says
The program resumes and the wall lights up doing it's thing. I focus now. I raise my phaser and hit them all now.
"Good. That was very good." she compliments
"Thank you. Will you train me? I'm aware of your weapons...training. Or usage for lack of a better term. It was something that was incredibly underdeveloped with your character." I ask
Guinan chuckles
"I would like that. It will give us time to get to know each other. How's your studying going?" she asks
"To be honest...not as well as I expected. I'm just pulling by. I knew that this would be the case, but it's been a bit depressing." I reply
"Might I make a suggestion?"
"Always."
"I suggest you focus primarily on your strengths, rather than focusing on your weaknesses with the practical application. Also...security is an option that I would consider, it's not all about being shot at, and Worf is a surprisingly great teacher." she says
Frankly anything but command---I've considered as a bust, but security might be the one thing I could excel at. Guinan's right.
"He was taught by the best." I say sadly
"You know that wasn't Tasha Yar, Adam. That was HIS, Tasha. You were given yet another unique experience, a slice of possibility." Guinan says with that twinkle in her eye
"I know that. I knew that while I was there, I knew that while pressing for the Enterprise-C and HER to go back...but I can't help how I felt. I guess that---was from my conscience? The fact that I've had some kind of crush on all these people and that it is manifesting in whatever....THIS---" I sweep my hands for further effect
"Is supposed to be?" I finish
"It could be." she replies
"Was that OTHER you...YOU? I've always been confused about this." I ask and of course she just smiles
"That is an interesting question isn't it? What does your gut tell you?" she asks
"I don't know now. I think being in this reality is starting to...alter previous intact events...the longer I remain here and enact the changes that I have been making... My own personal guess is that it wasn't, that you're El-Aurian sensibilities enable you to detect shifting dimensions and....folks from them. As you knew that I was already....but I don't know. It's all timey wimey."
"That's a term I haven't heard of in a very long time...." she motions for the door
"We're done already?" I ask
"Here we're done. We'll continue the lesson another day. I think we have more to talk about, we can do that at Ten Forward. I know you could use a drink about now..."
Last edited:
Chapter 30: Kurn
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DarkDestroyer
The Destroyer Of Worlds
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Watching Lal collapse was not fun at all. There was absolutely nothing I could do to prevent it from happening. I am not an engineer, and have a very rudimentary knowledge about technology in general, so all I could do was wait with the others, and grieve as Lal was lost to us. Perhaps one day since I'm going to be here a while, I can make this right. Where the hell was Bruce???
Commander Kurn boards the Enterprise as part of the Federation/Klingon Exchange program. It's only been a year since Riker was on board the I.K.S Pagh. Kurn acts as a Klingon officer would act aboard the Enterprise---including making me do double time studies and learning Klingon. He dresses down Wesley in front of the bridge crew. He pushes Worf the hardest though....for what will become obvious reasons later on. I've been dreading Kurn's arrival. How do I deal with this? Intervening in Klingon politics is something that fills me with dread...however it is going to turn out to be necessary in order to do what I need to do---for Worf. The dinner is held in Kurn's honor and Kurn wonders out loud why a civilian is allowed to be present in the company of the senior officers. Captain Picard explains to Commander Kurn that I am not simply any civilian, I am a Starfleet Special Consultant and hold special clearance privileges.
"Qajablu'Di jTh quv."
I say surprising everyone into silence. Worf has a proud grin on his face. Kurn is taken aback by the phrase, then starts laughing and slaps me on the back.
"You serve me with honor? We shall see about that."
Later on I am visited by Worf. He would have had his conversation with Kurn by now.
"Come." Worf enters and he's not happy.
"You should have told me." he growls at me.
"I see Kurn has revealed who he is to you." I say.
Hi to you too Worf.
"Let me guess...he's told you of House Duras' challenge as well?" Worf nods. I sigh and get up to pace.
"I am sorry Worf. This is one of those heavy things---fixed points in time---that I struggle with balancing. I will tell you right here that I will support you and your brother against the Duras though a hundred percent."
"What do you know, and how can we prove it?" I tell him everything.
Captain Picard meets with me in his ready room as we are on course for Qo'nos. We both have our cups of Earl Grey.
"This is an alarming situation to say the least. I'm not going to press you on your decision to tell Worf of the actions of Duras...however needless to say we will need to proceed with caution on this matter. The Prime Directive---"
"Is clear in this matter. I'm not asking anyone to violate the Prime Directive sir. However, I feel like I owe this to both Worf and Kurn, to restore their families honor and thwart Duras plan to take over the Council. That is really what this is all about. This has been a power play for the Duras family for centuries now. They inch their way towards the Chancellorship only to see it slip through their fingers because they're too...impatient, and immoral to get it the right way."
"What is going to happen?" Picard asks...this is the first time that he has asked me that directly. I tug on my shirt.
"This is all leading to a Klingon Civil War...the Federation narrowly manages to avoid being dragged into it---but there is multiple plots afoot by several...factions trying to pull us into a collision course to destabilize the quadrant, for their own benefit."
"The Romulans." Picard guesses correctly. Elementary, dear Captain. Of course ever the detective. Dixon Hill.
"Yes. This is really the beginning of THEIR plan, and no...for now, mostly because I'm not sure---I don't entirely know who is behind it."
"You're hesitating Mr. Young."
"Sorry sir, it's...complicated. It is extremely dangerous if we expose their plan too soon, not to mention the fact that exposing ME is not a good idea. Neither the Klingons nor the Romulans are aware of me, or what I know...yet, and I'd like to keep it that way."
That's not entirely true...the Romulans are aware of me now thanks to my little dance with Tomalak. No doubt the Tal'Shir has been keeping a file on me since.
"That's a good point. Very well. What do you recommend we do?"
"Nothing except observe. Chancellor K'Empec is losing his power base thanks to rival Houses---Duras especially. He is going to ask Worf to keep this a secret...the knowledge about his father, Duras, and Khitomer, in order to keep the civil war from blowing up in their faces. Worf will do so out of a sense of honor towards his people but not to K'Empec, Kurn will go along with his brother's decision despite not liking it."
"I do not like any of this."
"It's a powder keg sir no doubt about it. There will come a time where Worf will act against Duras...but not is not it."
"You want to be there with him when he does?" Picard asks.
"I don't know about physically, but I owe it to both of them. They've lost so much sir...and for what? Nothing. Petty politics." Picard's nods.
"Very well. We'll proceed as you've recommended--hopefully there aren't any variables in this."
Famous last words??
"Aye sir."
Later on the three of us are in Worf's quarters. We are discussing them killing Duras.
"I promise you that if we proceed the way I have outlined, that the threat of House Duras will be forever gone, House Mogh will rise in power--but if the two of you do this now---"
"You are attempting to avoid a Civil War..." Worf realizes
"Yes sir. A bloody one, one that we can not afford right now---it is my preference that it be avoided, however it might be impossible given the other fuller galactic repercussions..."
Worf growls at this and Kurn presses him on...
"Adam believes that the...Romulans have been involved with House Duras. They are responsible for a great many things, including our houses dishonor, and an attempt to destabilize our alliance with the Federation."
"Accepting discommendation is..."
"Not an agreeable choice, I know. However for the time being---we'll allow the Council to save face at your expense, I promise both of you---that things will work out if we continue to follow my plan."
"I propose a blood oath between the three of us...to ensure what you plan is executed." says Kurn through barred teeth. I look at Worf and he solemnly nods.
I don't hesitate.
"vay' vlQochbe." I say. I agree....nearly spitting it out. Klingon is so hard for me.
Kurn draws his d'k'tahg out and slices it across his hand...drawing blood. He then gives it Worf who does the same, and finally to me...I wince as the sharp alien metal slices my left hand....the blood drips...the three of us, clinching our fists, hover over the small fire bowl and allow the blood to drop into it. Sealing our bond. It is done. I am now bonded to House Mogh.
"Qapla." Kurn exclaims and I nod and repeeat it.
"Qapla."
Up next: Vash!!!
Watching Lal collapse was not fun at all. There was absolutely nothing I could do to prevent it from happening. I am not an engineer, and have a very rudimentary knowledge about technology in general, so all I could do was wait with the others, and grieve as Lal was lost to us. Perhaps one day since I'm going to be here a while, I can make this right. Where the hell was Bruce???
Commander Kurn boards the Enterprise as part of the Federation/Klingon Exchange program. It's only been a year since Riker was on board the I.K.S Pagh. Kurn acts as a Klingon officer would act aboard the Enterprise---including making me do double time studies and learning Klingon. He dresses down Wesley in front of the bridge crew. He pushes Worf the hardest though....for what will become obvious reasons later on. I've been dreading Kurn's arrival. How do I deal with this? Intervening in Klingon politics is something that fills me with dread...however it is going to turn out to be necessary in order to do what I need to do---for Worf. The dinner is held in Kurn's honor and Kurn wonders out loud why a civilian is allowed to be present in the company of the senior officers. Captain Picard explains to Commander Kurn that I am not simply any civilian, I am a Starfleet Special Consultant and hold special clearance privileges.
"Qajablu'Di jTh quv."
I say surprising everyone into silence. Worf has a proud grin on his face. Kurn is taken aback by the phrase, then starts laughing and slaps me on the back.
"You serve me with honor? We shall see about that."
Later on I am visited by Worf. He would have had his conversation with Kurn by now.
"Come." Worf enters and he's not happy.
"You should have told me." he growls at me.
"I see Kurn has revealed who he is to you." I say.
Hi to you too Worf.
"Let me guess...he's told you of House Duras' challenge as well?" Worf nods. I sigh and get up to pace.
"I am sorry Worf. This is one of those heavy things---fixed points in time---that I struggle with balancing. I will tell you right here that I will support you and your brother against the Duras though a hundred percent."
"What do you know, and how can we prove it?" I tell him everything.
Captain Picard meets with me in his ready room as we are on course for Qo'nos. We both have our cups of Earl Grey.
"This is an alarming situation to say the least. I'm not going to press you on your decision to tell Worf of the actions of Duras...however needless to say we will need to proceed with caution on this matter. The Prime Directive---"
"Is clear in this matter. I'm not asking anyone to violate the Prime Directive sir. However, I feel like I owe this to both Worf and Kurn, to restore their families honor and thwart Duras plan to take over the Council. That is really what this is all about. This has been a power play for the Duras family for centuries now. They inch their way towards the Chancellorship only to see it slip through their fingers because they're too...impatient, and immoral to get it the right way."
"What is going to happen?" Picard asks...this is the first time that he has asked me that directly. I tug on my shirt.
"This is all leading to a Klingon Civil War...the Federation narrowly manages to avoid being dragged into it---but there is multiple plots afoot by several...factions trying to pull us into a collision course to destabilize the quadrant, for their own benefit."
"The Romulans." Picard guesses correctly. Elementary, dear Captain. Of course ever the detective. Dixon Hill.
"Yes. This is really the beginning of THEIR plan, and no...for now, mostly because I'm not sure---I don't entirely know who is behind it."
"You're hesitating Mr. Young."
"Sorry sir, it's...complicated. It is extremely dangerous if we expose their plan too soon, not to mention the fact that exposing ME is not a good idea. Neither the Klingons nor the Romulans are aware of me, or what I know...yet, and I'd like to keep it that way."
That's not entirely true...the Romulans are aware of me now thanks to my little dance with Tomalak. No doubt the Tal'Shir has been keeping a file on me since.
"That's a good point. Very well. What do you recommend we do?"
"Nothing except observe. Chancellor K'Empec is losing his power base thanks to rival Houses---Duras especially. He is going to ask Worf to keep this a secret...the knowledge about his father, Duras, and Khitomer, in order to keep the civil war from blowing up in their faces. Worf will do so out of a sense of honor towards his people but not to K'Empec, Kurn will go along with his brother's decision despite not liking it."
"I do not like any of this."
"It's a powder keg sir no doubt about it. There will come a time where Worf will act against Duras...but not is not it."
"You want to be there with him when he does?" Picard asks.
"I don't know about physically, but I owe it to both of them. They've lost so much sir...and for what? Nothing. Petty politics." Picard's nods.
"Very well. We'll proceed as you've recommended--hopefully there aren't any variables in this."
Famous last words??
"Aye sir."
Later on the three of us are in Worf's quarters. We are discussing them killing Duras.
"I promise you that if we proceed the way I have outlined, that the threat of House Duras will be forever gone, House Mogh will rise in power--but if the two of you do this now---"
"You are attempting to avoid a Civil War..." Worf realizes
"Yes sir. A bloody one, one that we can not afford right now---it is my preference that it be avoided, however it might be impossible given the other fuller galactic repercussions..."
Worf growls at this and Kurn presses him on...
"Adam believes that the...Romulans have been involved with House Duras. They are responsible for a great many things, including our houses dishonor, and an attempt to destabilize our alliance with the Federation."
"Accepting discommendation is..."
"Not an agreeable choice, I know. However for the time being---we'll allow the Council to save face at your expense, I promise both of you---that things will work out if we continue to follow my plan."
"I propose a blood oath between the three of us...to ensure what you plan is executed." says Kurn through barred teeth. I look at Worf and he solemnly nods.
I don't hesitate.
"vay' vlQochbe." I say. I agree....nearly spitting it out. Klingon is so hard for me.
Kurn draws his d'k'tahg out and slices it across his hand...drawing blood. He then gives it Worf who does the same, and finally to me...I wince as the sharp alien metal slices my left hand....the blood drips...the three of us, clinching our fists, hover over the small fire bowl and allow the blood to drop into it. Sealing our bond. It is done. I am now bonded to House Mogh.
"Qapla." Kurn exclaims and I nod and repeeat it.
"Qapla."
Up next: Vash!!!