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

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Chapter 31: Vash New
Paramount-SkyDance Own Star Trek. For Entertainment Purposes Only. Non-Profit.

Author's Note: I wrote this three years ago when I was VERY sick and bored out of my mind. I hope you all enjoy it. We'll be revisiting Risa a couple of times as we continue along the timeline.

The thing with Picard's double happened without incident. Nothing I could have done to prevent that. I am in need of a vacation. I've had downtime but downtime and R and R are two completely different things. Deanna recommends that I take shore leave for a couple of weeks. I agree and go see Christy, things have been a little weird between her and I since I came back from the other reality, and I haven't told her why yet.

"Hey. I have a question."

"Sure." she says while inputting commands into her panel. I'm in engineering right now.

"I have been granted shore leave, and was wondering if you wanted to come with me."

That gets her attention.

"Where did you have in mind?"

"Risa."

"Isn't that where Captain Picard is going?"

"Yes...but we don't have to be in the same place he is."

"I know you Adam...what's going on at Risa, and why do you have to be there?" she is incredibly smart, and doesn't like my bullshit too much.

"Nothing. I've always just wanted to go to Risa. I've heard it's fantastic, and I know things between you and I have been...awkward the last few days."

"That's because you won't tell me what happened to you in that other reality. You're the one putting shields up between us, not me."

That's a phaser shot off the starboard bow, but not entirely wrong.

"I'm sorry. I'm still dealing with what happened on the other Enterprise---I promise you that I will tell you everything if you want to know, but I'd like you to come with me. Don't make me go by myself."

"All right. I still will need to have shore leave cleared...I don't have as much time banked as you do, nor do I have your...VIP privilege's." she grins.

"Perfect. If you need me to, I'll talk to Geordi about giving you more days. You won't regret this Christy."

"I'm already beginning to." she and I kiss as I leave engineering

She might have a point. I have no idea what to expect---I didn't want to tell her about...Vash---or the Tox Utat. Besides which Vash and Picard are the ones who fall in love. Absolutely no reason to believe anything different is going to happen. It should be just a nice, standard, much needed vacation where Christy and I finally get to make love. Yep. No hijinks. Right?

Risa is all set. Packing is easy in this reality, and not just because of replicators...it has dawned on me that I don't actually have any "real" clothes since I got here. It still occasionally freaks me out that I'm wearing replicated clothing. It is a strange feeling to try and describe---the most closest thing I can possibly compare it with is like a sheath armored suit---except that doesn't do it justice either as the replicator literally copies the fabrics, right down to the molecules themselves. It's complicated stuff.

Anyway we're just going two weeks. Turns out I didn't have to talk to Geordi to clear any more days for Christy. I'm REALLY hoping that being on Risa helps us---we're not in any real trouble. I do need to tell her what happened in the other reality, even though NOTHING happened. She deserves to know and I promise no secrets at the beginning of all my relationships---or I would have I had any! Everyone is pretty excited for me, and also getting Picard off the ship for the first time. It's incredible he never took a vacation before this episode---but that fits his psyche profile honestly.


There wasn't enough time with Elizabeth to book a trip to Risa...that would have been absolutely amazing. Two weeks with her...ahem but I am excited to see how things transpire with Christy. Captain Picard as anticipated, was less enthused with the two of us coming along with him, but I promised him that we would be in another part of the planet---which we are. I made sure to book us a suite in Tembiti Lagoon. Captain Picard is staying in the capital...which is why the place was crawling with extras---errrr---tourists and Risans. Christy is still suspicious of my motives still, and I can't say as I blame her---she's wearing a magnificently skimpy blue bikini, and I'm shirtless wearing a pair of ocean blue shorts. Our luggage has already been beamed down to our room...and right on cue---Arandis is there to meet us. Interesting.

"Welcome to Risa. It is my pleasure to welcome you to Tembiti Lagoon, where I am it's chief facilitator. My name is Arandis."

I shake her hand. I'm a little giddy right now, and it's not the few cocktails that I've already downed.


"It's my pleasure to meet you Arandis. It's wonderful to finally be here."

"You know of Tembiti Lagoon?"

"It's reputation proceeds itself let's say...I've been wanting to visit for a very long time."

I see Christy roll her eyes as she starts towards the main building. Arandis smiles and beckons me to follow her.

"I'm very happy to hear that. You will know then that we offer only the very best in hospitality. We feature five star cuisine from the very best chef's across the galaxy. Room service is available all day and night if desired. Our staff is highly trained to respond to you and your partner's every need. There is entertainment in the evening times. The beaches are also open all day. There is no curfew, so feel free to enjoy what the resort has to offer for as long as you are here to stay, and if you need anything at all---don't hesitate to ask for me."

We're inside our suite now and I'm a little bit taken aback...speechless actually. It is absolutely beautiful.

"Thank you again Arandis, and be assured if we need you, we'll call." she smiles and leaves us along.

Christy slinks towards me and wraps her arms around my neck.

"So what do you think?" she asks

"I think you look absolutely breathtaking...and I can think of a few things we can finally do now that we're alone..."

I start to untie her bikini top as we kiss, she giggles.

"Finally, I thought we'd never get to this part, Mr. Young."

"I'm admittedly a little slow in this department...my lack of experience you see." Hmmm. Her top falls off as she kisses down my chest and goes to pull down my shorts.

"I think I can help...educate you with that..."

"I was hoping you would say that...."

"Stop talking."

I obey as we fall back onto the bed.

Just as Christy and I are...resting...we're interrupted by Picard and Vash who burst into our room. We pull the sheet up.

"Mr. Young...Lieutenant Henshaw. Our apologies...but there's a situation..."

I try and avoid looking at Vash while she looks at me with...an unexpected expression on her face.

I press myself up on the headboard of the bed...

"Ah. I see you've met Vash already. I thought we had more time."

"I knew it!" Christy exclaims but she doesn't leave

"You know of me?" Vash asks

"Who hasn't?" Vash smiles, Christy swats me with a pillow.

"Enough Adam, you clearly know what is going on here. We need your help, get dressed---consider that an order, and I apologize again Lieutenant."
Damn. I get out of bed and start putting on clothes.

"Adam...what is happening?" Christy says crawling over to my side.

"You might've been a little...uh...right when you suspected that I had ulterior motives coming here."

"You bastard. You came here because of her---didn't you?"

"Sort of...but not in the way you're thinking Christy."

I put on my shirt and sit on the bed. I take her hand---she pulls it away. I don't have time for this...but I need to make this right. I kiss the back of her hand gently.

"I'm truly sorry. I haven't been upfront with you since I got back from the other reality. There is a reason why I wanted to come to Risa, and yes Vash is part of it---but she falls in love with the Captain...I came here to expose the fraud Vorlons, and also to give you the vacation that you truly deserve and treat you like the queen you are." I cringe slightly. Don't over do it Adam.

"Mr. Young?" the Captain calls

"I'm coming sir..."

"You did that well enough..." Christy harrumphs.

"Thank you...lol...listen you can either come with us, or you can stay here and when I come back...I promise you that I will tell you everything that happened on the other Enterprise---and why I've been distant from you. I'll try not to flirt with Vash."

"That seems like it's going to be impossible for you...you're so so lucky you know that? You're a bastard."

"But a charming bastard! Right?"

We kiss again...I linger a few seconds longer than i should then pull away. Damn this. I honestly wasn't expecting a relationship when this episode happened...I am a bit of a bastard. I kind of wish Christy was coming with us.

"Christy...be mindful while I'm gone. I'm not entirely confident that this...will unfold exactly as it did on the show. Call Arandis if you need company, she's really a delightful person." she hears the concern in my voice

"I'll do that. You be careful too Adam. We have unfinished business when you come back..."

"I know. I love you."

It's the first time I say and we both realize it. She doesn't hesitate.

"I love you too, you bastard, now go before the Captain loses his patience. This is wrecking his holiday too."

I know. He just wanted to read his books in private.

I head into the living room where Picard and Vash are waiting for me. I'm not really in the mood for any of Vash's hijinks. I'm tempted to just shut this thing down as soon as possible...but I'm curious.

"So you've encountered the Vorgons already...and Sovak."

Vash turns to Picard.

"How does he know that? How does he know me?"

Picard sighs and introduces us.

"Vash, this is the Special Starfleet Consultant assigned to the Enterprise, Adam Christopher Young."

"Adam, you already know who Vash is."

She extends her hand and I shake it firmly.

"Indeed I do. It's my honor to meet you."

"As to how he knows what is going on...well...that's a complicated matter we don't have time for. What DOES matter is that he knows what is going on and can help us."

Yeah, I'm going to end this early.

"Vash...sigh. As much as it pains me to do this...tell the Captain where the Tox Uthat is please."

Picard looks at her confused.

Vash's expression changes to annoyed for a second then feigned confusion.

"I'm not sure what you're talking about. We have to go to---"

I rub my temples with two fingers.

"Vash. You don't understand who you are dealing with---and under any other circumstances---I would have loved nothing more than to go on an adventure with you...but you're not fooling me. I know you found the Tox Uthat in the caves already, when you first arrived here and have been hiding it from Sovak." she looks genuinely shocked now and Picard has an angry look on her face

"Don't be too upset with her Captain...she's in over her head a little bit. Good thing I planned for this." I take out my comm badge.

"Young to Enterprise."

"Riker here..."

"Are you in position yet sir?" Picard is looking at me in bewilderment...I'm possibly gonna get reamed when we get back to the ship, but I REALLY want to get back to Christy.

"We arrived a few minutes ago based on your plan Adam yes. Is the Captain there?"

"I am Number One, and quite impressed---and annoyed at the same time." Picard says in his stern voice


"Understood. I'll explain later."

"You damned well better."


"Code 14 sir two second delay ...on my mark."

"Understood, standing by."

"I apologize sir, but I had anticipated this was going to happen and informed Commander Riker--and told him what I wanted to do. He didn't want to---burden you with this since you're on shore leave."

Picard sighs. Vash beams at me.

"I like him."

Uh-oh.

"Vash...please. We're wasting valuable time...we will protect you from Solok and the Vorgons, but you must produce the Uthat first."

"Fine." Vash sighs and goes to get it. I glance at the Captain.

"When we return to the Enterprise, you and I are going to have a little talk Mr. Young."

"Aye sir."

Vash comes back with a Horga'hn and opens it up and there is the Uthat. Almost right on cue the Vorgons appear with their weapons drawn.

"You have done well Captain Picard, faster than the records shown."

"You're not who you told the Captain you are." I say confronting them.

"Who are you?" they exclaim

"I'm not in your records." I reply

"Vash toss it to me and both of you run now."

she hesitates and Picard realizes what is happening and takes it from her and tosses to me and grabs her hand

"Now Enterprise! Now! MARK!" I exclaim

I then dive for cover too as the Uthat explodes! All of us get up and the Vorgons turn to both Picard and I. It was Picard's destiny to DESTROY the Tox Uthat and then Bortanus turn to me and says:

"We ARE aware of who you are Adam Christopher Young...Good Journey."

The two of them vanish and Picard and Vash get up.

"Is it over?" Vash asks

"It's over I say, the Ferengi will be arrested when he comes back into the city tomorrow. I've alerted the authorities about him already."

"You'll have to tell me how this transpires originally when we get back, Adam." Picard says

Vash rubs her hand on Picard's chest.

"It seems we have free time on our hands."

Picard is hesitant.

"Vash is a highly interesting woman, Captain. I'm sure you'll find her company rather stimulating, if you give her a chance."

"You are a mystery in itself Mr. Young." Vash says to me


"I would love to get to know you more, perhaps we will have an opportunity in the future to do so---however my partner is currently waiting for me...and I promised her a proper vacation. Vash...stay out of trouble---Captain I'll see you in two weeks. Enjoy the rest of your leave."

"Well done Mr. Young, and thank you." I nod leaving the two of them to leave our suite I head back into the bed room

Christy is sitting up reading something. I start stripping off my shirt and shorts.

"Arandis is probably gonna come to check on us in a few minutes..."

"Is the commotion over with now? I Trust you butterflied it." she says with her arms crossed

"I did."

"Everything is fine?" she asks

"More than fine." I lift up the sheet from the bottom of the bed and crawl underneath of it. Slowly kissing Christy's body until I reach her lips and then cover us. She giggles.

"I'm sorry. I'll tell you everything...but first we have to make up for lost time." I say as I kiss her chest. She giggles and we end up making love until the following morning.

The next morning I finally Christy what has been bothering me since I came back from the other Enterprise and she laughs.

"You were worried that I what? Was going to leave you or something because you had feelings for a woman in an alternate reality that a variant of you was involved with? I can't believe that was a real sentence."

We're eating breakfast together at our spacious oval shaped table. Fresh fruit, and crepes that I had just finished making.

"I didn't think that...but I did feel guilty about having those feelings."

Christy laughs. It reminds me of Elizabeth's laugh and I frown.

"Adam...you're in the 24th century now. A lot---and I mean a LOT has changed in the past three hundred years...not to mention we're a completely different reality than from what yours might evolve into. We're not hung up on certain things any more, you could say that a sexual revolution took place after World War III happen---I know you're still reading and learning our history---but you really have to drop your old mentality."

"I get that things have changed, but I was thinking of you---and you're right...I need to stop assuming things and talk about them with you...what that other version of me felt though---"

"It lingered with you naturally?" she asks

"Yes. Plus I think I've always had a crush on...the actress that played Tasha...so for a version of me to actually been involved with A Tasha.."

"It must've been overwhelming for you."

"Everything was overwhelming about being in that reality---everything was so dark."

"Can I ask you another question?" she asks

"Fire away." i say in between bites of crepe

"What's the deal with Vash? I saw how you looked at her."

"Vash is a unique person in this reality...galaxy. Yes I had a crush on her too, but under no illusions that anything would happen nor would I have jeopardize anything with you."

"Good to know, but I would have been open to something..." she smiles mischievously

My jaw drops for a few seconds.

"I've had relations before with women---especially when I was at the Academy. I told you Adam, things have changed here. Anyway you're off the hook. You had nothing to worry about. You have proven to me where your heart is...and I love you for it."

"I meant what I said earlier...I have fallen in love with you Christy."

"And I you..."

We kiss

"So I was hoping to hit the beach. It's been a long time since I've been to a proper beach."

"I'll go put on my bikini." I nod

I smile goofy...for the first time in a long, long time...I feel...happy.
 
Chapter 32: Tinman and the Wonders That We've Seen.... New
Paramount and SkyDance Own Star Trek. For Entertainment Purposes Only. Non-Profit.

The two weeks were an absolute blessing. It had been a long time since I had a genuine extended vacation like this before---and nothing quite like Risa at all. As anticipated Arandis did check in on us and I explained what had happened, and she informed me that the authorities had picked up Solok upon his return into the main city. I would have liked to have seen the expression on his face when he was arrested. We have a chance to explore some of the planet as well as mostly staying in the Lagoon. It's nice and peaceful here and the weather control is brilliant. They have perfected the technology even more than on Earth here. They can switch it on and off like a light switch.


When we returned to the ship Captain Picard did indeed have a talk with me...making sure that if I had notions of any such plans in the future that I run them by him no matter what it is...and especially if it involves the crew or ship's safety. I agree to do so, and then he commends me on the plan.

"I trust that you picked it up from the episode?" He asks while sipping tea

"I did. You come up with it...I just borrowed it." He smiles

"Code 14...the destruction of an object while being dematerialized in a transport beam. That would have been something I would think of in that situation. Well done Adam. However next time, I would like to be informed about a command decision involving MY ship. Understood?"

"Understood sir."

"So...did you take my suggestion to spend time with Vash?" he frowns, annoyed that I've brought it up. After all. This is still season 3 Picard.

"At first I wasn't going to...all I wanted to do there was just read---and I explained that again to Vash--however as you know, she can be very persuasive and brought up the ancient civilization on Tagus III. Then she offered to take me to Galgartha...which features this absolutely amazing cliff face that changes pitch and handholds as one makes their way up for it. I've never climbed anything like it before..."

"I'm surprised that neither of you broke anything climbing it...as it has a reputation for being a literal tourist trap...for even the most experienced climbers." I reply and there's a twinkle in his eye

I'm thinking of Travis who had that happen to him when the NX-01 visited it.

"We took the necessary precautions and Vash was an expert guide."

"I'm sure she was. It sounds like you two had a delightful time."

"Why? What happens in the episode between us?"

I sigh.

"In the episode Vash leads you on an elaborate adventure into the cave where the Tox Uthat is supposed to be--while you're being pursued by Solak. The adventure brings you close together---and..."

"We spend the night together." Picard finishes

"Yes sir."

He tugs on his uniform and then takes another sip of tea.

"I see. Now I understand why you've had the tone with me that you've had...you were worried that you might have...taken that experience away from me with her?"

"Yes sir."

He smiles.

"I am, as you know, not prone to discussing my personal life, however if it relieves you of any consternation---spending the night did occur. "

"I'm glad for you sir."

"I trust things with you and Lieutenant Henshaw proceeded smoothly after we left?"

"They did yes. We're in a great place now. "

"I am happy for you Adam. Well done again. You're dismissed."

Aye sir, and thank you sir."

"Remember what I said though...any circumstances like that again---I need to be immediately informed beforehand."

"Aye sir."

Not the reaming I expected, but the message is crystal clear. I need to go make a pizza for Will.

The next three months are a whirlwind of activity as I delve back into my studies. Christy moves into my quarters. Elizabeth messages to inform me that the new "Borg Detection Array" (Tentative name) is now up and running and is scanning. The device takes tremendous power to operate and a half a dozen Starfleet officers are stationed there. Think like the Armagosa Array from "Generations" but about fifteen times larger. It is at the time of writing the single largest advanced detection device/station that Starfleet has built and operates. It's been online now for a few weeks and starting to get hits which is concerning. The Fleet despite advanced efforts is no where near it needs to be and still disappointing with the numbers. I instruct Elizabeth to get them to focus the array along the Romulan Neutral Zone--the entirety of it. The Borg IIRC make pot shots all along that sector of space. This is in September---I tell her and Admiral Hanson that we have about two months before they launch their attack. The Defiant despite the alterations I recommended is not ready---the Romulans are not cooperating with loaning the cloaking device, despite suggestions of joint operation of it. Neither side trusts each other. I tell them both to get over themselves...because this thing is bigger than our blood feud with each other. We may have to think of an...another alternative should they continue to reject us.

Tam Elburn comes aboard the Enterprise as "Tin Man" happens...Commander Riker is unsure of Tam due to an incident that cost the lives of two of Riker's Academy friends. I assure Will that everything will proceed without incident this time and that he needs to back off Elburn. Riker respects my judgement and we eventually discover that the creature is from another universe that somehow got lost in ours and bonds with Tam. Data goes through his crisis of faith as he wonders if he should be elsewhere than the Enterprise.

"Captain...I know this sounds crazy...and its a haunch rather than fact...but I think I know where Gomtuu is from. It's a hell of a leap...but I have a gut feeling. I request permission to board him...I believe he will allow me to without incident."

"That's a hell of a guess Adam." Riker says

"I know it is. I'm basing this off that Gomtuu resembles organic ships from a reality called...Farscape."

"Another show?" Asks Deanna doubting

"Yes. I understand how crazy this sounds, and I maybe totally wrong...but I can't help but feel the connection to the ship."

"Is it impacting your empathy?"

"No. I don't sense him or anything...I just feel compelled to help him."

"Captain this is highly irregular. I am aware that Mr. Young is a Special Consultant and he has certain...abilities. However he is not a contact specialist, nor has he had the training to be one." Tam states

Picard raps his knuckles on the conference table, looking impatient.

"I agree. Which means that you Mr. Elburn will be accompanying him, and Mr. Data on this mission. At the first sign of trouble. we'll beam you all back."

"Aye sir. Thank you sir. " Picard is trusting my gamble. I've been right before. The stuff on Risa cemented me as fact for him. Our relationship has changed now.

The three of us beam aboard the creature and it is...hard to describe. I can hear his heart beat. It is similar to the hum that the warp core makes on the Enterprise. It is absolutely breathtaking. Data begins scans with his tricorder. I forgot about the Romulans. We don't have a whole lot of time.

"Okay Tam, I need you to communicate with Glomtuu...I know what happened to him and his crew, and what he's feeling. But I need you to calm him down long enough to me to tell him where to go, if I'm right that is. If not this could go south real fast for us, but I think I can convince him to go home."

"I hope you're right Mr. Young"

I turn to Data.

"Sir, on my mark I need to contact the Enterprise to beam us out. This is going to be pretty quick and we don't need to be here when the Romulans are..."

"Understood Adam."

It takes a couple of minutes but Tam does what I ask and tells me that Glomtruu is ready to hear what I have to say.


"Hello Glomtruu. I know that you are a long way from home...and are in great pain since the loss of your crew, and pilot. There are no Peacekeepers here to harm you---but there is a group of people who are trying to hunt you down...Tam...myself, and Data are trying to help you. We mean you no harm. I don't know if you can understand me or not."

I turn to Tam who pauses a few minutes then he nods.

"He understands but doesn't know how you know where he is from." Elburn replies

"It's a long story we don't have time for. I have a plan but we need your cooperation, and you need to start powering your starburst drive once I tell you to. Do you understand?"

I wait for Tam.

"He understands."

"Data, see if you can access Glomtruu's database...you might have to reach back a while. There should be spatial coordinates in there that don't look like anything we use. If you find them, are you able to use..."

"I believe I can do better than that Adam. If Glomtruu allows me, I should be able to access his main navigation systems from his console and program them from there."

Data is now a temporary Pilot.

"Good. Hurry Data." I press, the Romulans should be nearly bearing down on us.

"Picard to Away Team. We have detected a Romulan warbird approaching this system. You don't have a lot of time."

I tap my badge.

"Acknowledged. We're almost done here I think."


Tam approaches me.

"I suppose you know that I am staying with him. He has given me permission to do. He will need someone with him when he goes home."

I nod.

"If this works, do you have any suggestions where we should go?"

"Seek out Moya. You'll know her when you see her...the connection between the two should be evident when you do. She has a crew that should be able to help you both. Stay away from Peacekeepers---that shouldn't be hard to do."

Data gets up from the console and joins the two of us.

"It is done Adam. Glomtruu has the coordinates he needs to return home now."

"Thank you Data. Tam?"

"He is sending you both back to the Enterprise...thank you, both of you for your help. Especially you Data...and Mr. Young, I apologize for doubting you...and give my regards to Deanna."

"I will...and good journey...to you both."

Then quick as a flash both Data and I are standing on the bridge as I watch the starburst engine activates and in a brilliant flash of energy that Glomtruu generates---he and Tam are gone.

The Romulan Warbird decloaks and the Captain tells the Romulan Commander that he is too late...Glomtruu has gone back home. There's a tense couple of minutes but then the warbird retreats as she recloaks and sets a course back to Romulan space. The second ship never decloaks.

"That was a close one."

"Do you think they made it? " Riker asks

"I hope so...I recognized the energy that Glomtruu was generating, it was very similar to the one from the show I mention. Plus the coordinates that Data found where nothing like we've seen here. I am confident they made it back to his reality..."

"And Tam?" asks Deanna

"He asked me to give you his regards...but he has finally found peace and a new purpose with Glomtruu. The two of them bonded finally...and I could sense that the ship was grateful for our assistance."

"I'm glad that we could help it find its way home before anything dire happened to it." Picard says

A tear streaks down my cheek.

"Adam. Are you all right?" Deanna asks

I hear the Farscape theme briefly in my head...and all the wonders I have seen....take care of them John....

"Yeah...just a little emotional. Connecting even briefly with Glomtruu---was---overwhelming, but incredible. I kind of understand a little how you must feel with all of us."

Deanna smiles and squeezes my arm.

"I think it's time we got underway ourselves....helm, set as a course for Starbase 152, Warp 5. Engage."

Data later has his conversation with Deanna in the observation lounge and realizes that his place is here, with us. We're his home. I nurse a drink at the bar with Guinan.

The Enterprise was called to deal with the water supply issue on Beta Agini II. It is discovered that a rare compound is required to the neutralize the contamination and one Kivas Fajo so happens to have it---as well as a whole lot of other rare items in his collection. Data already makes a couple of trips, on his third trip back. I inform Captain Picard that Fajo is planning on kidnapping Data. Picard says that is a serious allegation, they require proof of it---I tell him to have Geordi check for any explosives on Data's shuttle. An engineering team does find them, disables them, and Fajo is charged with attempted kidnapping. He is brought about the ship to defend himself and confronts me in the conference lounge. He calls the charges preposterous and that I'm slandering him. I force myself not to laugh at him...and say in return that he is preposterous. I then turn to Commander Riker as Worf is about to escort him to the brig.

"I think you'll discover that all of Fajo's collection is stolen, and that he's wanted for multiple accounts on many different worlds. I would suggest that any investigation start with his assistants...I'm sure they'll be more than willing to spill the beans on our preposterous friend."

"You're enjoying this." Riker notes

"In this particular instance? Damn right. The man has lived off his reputation as a trader and collector for decades, but in reality is nothing more than a petty thief. All of his so called collection should be museums...like the Ark...and that damned baseball card."

"Do you want anything?" Riker asks grinning

"The aforementioned baseball card would be nice--but no. Like I said all of the items should be sent to the appropriate museums, or their former owners if possible."

Riker nods.
 
Chapter 33: A Career Decision New
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I slam down a PADD on to my desk in frustration and get push myself away and up from it. Sonya is startled by my sudden outburst.

"What's wrong?" she asks

"I'm what's wrong. I apologize for the sudden outburst. But I'm not getting any of this." I admit as I rub my temples

"You will eventually, this is just all new to you." she tries to comfort

"I appreciate the vote of confidence Sonya, but I'm not going to get this. I've barely been getting by. I KNOW how to push buttons. I've heard Geordi say it a million times as a joke, 12 Monkey's and a Chimp could operate the Enterprise. The tech in this century is literally fool proof. I can get buy on pushing buttons. But I'm not getting any of the formulas. I'm not getting any of the science. I knew this would be a problem. I had to take alternate Math courses in high school just to cover the bare minimum credit requirements because most of it goes over my head....and my teachers were frustrated because they all saw the potential in me. I never applied myself. Which is hilarious because now, when I'm putting in one hundred percent effort and focus, into something I want BADLY...I realize that I'm just not going to cut it." I slam my hand against the bulkhead

Sonya gets up and comforts me.

"This has happened to every Cadet and NCO since Starfleet was incorporated. I assure you with time..."

"Sonya I appreciate the pep talk, I really do. But this is not about time or effort. This is about not being the best. All of you on this ship, are the BEST. The very best this Fleet has to offer and I am not on that same wave length. I believe I can contribute though. It just might be through a different way. Excuse me."

"Where are you going?"

"To see the head of security." I wink back at her and she has a disappointing expression on her face

I make way to Worf's security office with is adjacent to the Brig on Deck 4, which also is where the Armory is located along with Transporter Room 1. Worf happens to be inside doing paper work.

"Sir? May I speak with you if you've a minute?" I ask him

Worf looks up, looking terribly pleased to be interrupted from doing paper work for however long he's been doing it.

"What is it you wish to speak of?" he asks

"I was just with Ensign Gomez and had a...difficult epiphany. I'm struggling with all of this." I imply my studies in general to which Worf frowns

"I have been keeping up to date on Commander Riker's evaluation, you have been getting passing grades." he replies

"I know...so far. But the science Worf, I'm struggling with the science. That's with having Wesley Crusher and Sonya Gomez tutoring me daily on stuff. Two of the smartest people that I have ever encountered in my life, of which I include my best friend back home. It's not a teaching thing either. They're both equally wonderful teachers, Wes especially. I'm just not getting it. I am here to make a request of you." I explain

Worf picking up on my meaning quickly knows what I'm about to ask before I ask.

"You wish to join security." he replies and I nod

"Yes sir. I feel out of all the major departments, it is the one that I can best excel in." I reply seriously

This time Worf leans back in his chair and studies me for a few minutes. They feel like an eternity.

"You do understand that it will not be easy, and I do not...play...favourites." he finally answers

"I understand sir."

"I will be evaluating your progress under the same scrutiny as Commander Riker, and Counsellor Troi have been." he states

"I understand sir, and wouldn't expect anything less."

"It will be difficult, Adam...especially the physical part. Are you prepared for the pain?" he asks dropping his voice an octave. He knows about my foot of course

"I'm prepared for anything you throw at me sir." I say a little over confidently

"Very well. Then you will report for detail at 07:00 tomorrow morning. I do not tolerate lateness as you know."

"Yes sir. Thank you sir. I won't let you down." I reply and get up and leave, I hear a quiet harrumph from Worf as his door shuts. Doubt.

I come back to my quarters and Sonya is sitting on my couch, arms crossed over her chest. Christy is sitting next her with the same expression.

"Oh Hi honey." I say as I walk gingerly towards the couch. This can't be good for me.

"So how did it go with Worf?" Sonya asks

"And when were you planning on telling me about this major decision in your life?" Christy asks

"Uhhhh...when you got home from work...which is now, and it went fine." I reply as I sit down next to them

"Why are you doing this? You know it's going to be torture on your foot, not to mention the rest of your body?" Christy asks as she gets up and walks over to sit next to me

I turn to her.

"Sweetheart, I've already been torturing my body over this schedule the last few months. I'm not cut out for this....science stuff. Security at least gives me a shot. I know I can tolerate the pain. The hypo--"

"It will be a grind Adam. Maybe you should have waited until after your foot surgery." Christy says

"I agree." Sonya

The doubt from everyone is hurting me now.

"Look. I Know what I'm doing. I know what I can't do. At least this gives me a chance. I know what to expect from Worf. But I also know that he will give me a fair shot, and I'm willing to put myself through that in order to get what I want. If I fail this...I don't know what I'd do with myself otherwise."

"You're so dramatic. You'll be fine." Christy says as the two of them chuckle at my expense

This has given me a new purpose and something to prove to everyone that I can do.
 
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Chapter 34: Sarek New
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The year has gone by quicker than I had anticipated. It is the beginning December now...that feeling of dread is starting to creep again as we get nearer and nearer to the Best of Both Worlds. The Borg are coming and there's nothing I can do about it. However that is in the near future, in the present time the Enterprise has been abuzz for several weeks now as we have been selected to host the Legaran Conference. Yes, we've reached "Sarek" finally and I've been giddy as fuck--so much so that Christy has noticed it. Everyone is excited. How could we not be? Ambassador Fucking Sarek is coming aboard...Mark Leonard. The father of Spock!!! Rao damn if I'm not pumped about it. Security training has begun and as everyone predicted it has been quite harsh on me but I'm making due. Security is also a whole lot more different than what I was anticipating as well. You have to know a little bit of everything, and everyone. I'm in a kind of boot camp phase to begin with.

I've been reading up on the talks with the Legarans...the episode attempted to put over the significance of this conference but I think failed a bit...it is considered the crowning achievement in Sarek's illustrious career. 93 years--half of his life---has been devoted to finalizing these talks and reaching an accord with the mysterious race. We're currently on route to Vulcan to pick up Sarek---and his wife--Perrin--and we'll be taking them to Legara IV where the final talks are scheduled to take place. The importance of this is on par with the Khitomer Accords. I've taken to replicate fancy dress clothes on the off chance that I am to meet Sarek.

I hurry through the hallway as I barely manage to reach Transporter Room 3 in time...Picard, and Riker are present in their dress uniforms. Miles is wearing his behind us...I slow down and adjust my 21st century civilian designer business suit---I would actually prefer wearing dress uniforms, I stand out like an eye sore---but I'm not an officer so this is gonna be the next best thing. I REFUSE to wear those tacky clothes. I stand in silence as Sarek's aid's, Ki Mendrossen, and Sakkath are beamed aboard first as Picard greets them . Mendrossen gives his speech about Sarek's health, and that he may not attend the various events that have been planned for him. I watch as Picard hides his disappointment as Chief O'Brien beams aboard the iconic Vulcan and his wife. It is hard not to mark out right now big time. Sarek!!! I'm even excited to see Perrin!!! Captain Picard introduces Riker and I to them both---Perrin exchanges polite nods to us both, Sarek though wants to head straight to the conference room. So far everything is going according to plan. Will dismisses me after the two of them leave. Mendrossen eyes me briefly as he passes by.

"So what was it like?" Christy asks me.

"What was what like?" I reply

"Meeting the Ambassador." she says as we eat our dinner

"Oh it was amazing...but it was pretty quick. He was intent on seeing the conference room layout."

"You must've been disappointed he didn't address you..."

"No. Not really. He's a busy man."

We chit chat some more and then my comm badge beep.

"Riker to Young...report to Ten Forward. On the double."

Will sounds angry...but not at me.

"On my way. "

"It's always going to be like this isn't it?" Christy says suddenly

"Like what?"

"We're in the middle of doing something, when you get called away to do bigger and more important things! Ignoring me!" she shouts

Oh no...it's happening.

"Christy...look, I do gotta go...something bad is going on with Sarek. We'll talk about this when I get back. You are the most important person in my life---and just like you DO---I have responsibilities that I have to attend to on this ship. You know this. I love you. No one and nothing is more important that you are to me...believe me."

I take her hands and kiss both of them.

"I-I'm sorry. I don't know--"

"It's okay. I know what is going on....it'll be all right. I'll see you in a bit."

She just nods and I head off to Ten Forward to discuss Sarek. I think I know what I have to do.

I report to Ten Forward where I find the Captain, Commander Riker, Counsellor Troi, and Dr. Crusher already in mid-discussion about what is going on. The brawl that just happened is getting broken up and cleaned up by security and Guinan's staff.

"Mr. Young...as you can see we are all experiencing a situation...we believe that it is connected to Ambassador Sarek."

"Yes, Christy, and I just had an argument out of no where."

I sigh.

"Sarek is suffering from Bendaii Syndrome. He was diagnosed with it shortly before we grabbed him from Vulcan. His aides are quite naturally, keeping it a secret for obvious reasons. Sakkath has been using a technique to...absorb Sarek's emotions for a time. It is a difficult process and takes it toll on the person."

"Sakkath has also kept this information to himself...only Perrin knows but is in denial about it."

Picard tugs on his uniform.

"This needs to be dealt with...we can not proceed with all of...this going on and with us experiencing...psychic bleeding from the procedure."

"I suggest speaking to the aides first, then directly confronting Sarek. Go to Perrin as well...she'll help you with him."

"Mr. Young...do you have a more advanced way of dealing with this?"


I sigh again.

"Yes I do but we first need to get them to acknowledge that he has it first---Sarek will eventually submit to tests...and then..."

"Out with it Adam." Picard prompts

"You volunteer to take the Ambassador's emotions for the duration of the talks..."

Picard exchanges glances with Riker and they half grin.

"I see. You want to volunteer yourself."

"Yes sir. You're not expendable should anything happen to you, the ship needs it's Captain, and I'm well aware that Commander Riker can fill in during that time, but you have the perfect person to accept those responsibilities, not to mention I know what to expect from it. "

"Adam...that maybe so, but what you're asking to take on---is not something that any old human can take. Captain Picard has training...you are just starting yours...maybe..." Deanna says

"Counsellor...I know what the Captain endures during the procedure, and something of what Sakkath has been enduring for however long it has been...I know what my limit is...and Beverly will be there to help me...and you if you're able to. I'm not afraid of what might happen and I know my own mind. Allow me to do this for him...please."

The exchange looks. They don't like this idea one bit...and admittedly I shouldn't be doing it, but I DO want to do this for Sarek. It's the least I can do.


"Very well, when we get to that point we'll discuss you as an option. Until then you're dismissed."

I am waiting in my quarters when the door chime beeps.

"Enter."

In walks Captain Picard, Doctor Crusher, Counsellor Troi, Sakkath, Ki Mendrossen and the Great Man himself.

"I have need of your services Mr. Young." Ambassador Sarek says formally. I raise my right hand in the Vulcan Salute. Control. Control. Control.

"I am honored to serve in anyway that I can Ambassador. It is a tremendous honor to meet you."

He nods.

Sakkath approaches me.

"Captain Picard has impressed upon us your desire to help the Ambassador in this matter, and while we are grateful for your help, I want you to understand the great toll this will take on you. IF you survive the process, you may still feel residual effects for some time after we have concluded these talks."

"I understand. I seek the danger." I say turning towards Sarek who nods at me. He gets the reference.

"Counsellor Troi and Doctor Crusher will monitor your status throughout the duration of the process." Picard says and I nod as I take my seat at my desk.

"I understand. No one else here does...I'm ready."

"Very well. We shall proceed."

Sakkath reaches up to my temple and places his hand on there...and does the same to Ambassador Sarek. This is not a traditional Vulcan Mind Meld so the traditional iconic words are not said. Instead he says a ritual I am not familiar with, and it is in ancient Vulcan...that much I do recognize. At first I feel nothing...then...all of a SUDDEN! WHAM.

"It is done."

I am a blank canvas for a moment or two. Slaughtered by the various raging emotions...I barely hear Sakkath instruct the others to leave, I don't look up. I barely hear Deanna in my head. Adam...it's Deanna. Focus on my voice. Use my voice as a central point and come to me. ARRRRRRGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHH!!!!!! I feel dozens of emotions at once. Barraging me. It is unlike anything that I have felt before in my life---or will again. Every emotion amplified by a million....and then...then...for a moment...

"I-I...I'm here." I clutch the desk and gasp for breath.

"We will be here as long as ---" Beverly says

"NO! I shout. Not at first....come back later. I---need control---control---control. CONTROLL!" I watch as myself as the two of them leave and turn out the off the lights.

"AHHHHHARRRRRRRGGHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!"

The darkness embraces me as I continue to struggle through Sarek's raging emotions. My quarters are a mess...Christy is going to kill me...as I have momentary clarity. Then it starts again as I hear Beverly come into the room.

"NOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!" I scream as I have so many times in the last few hours. Buckets of Sweat pours down my brow and cheeks.

"It is wrong! A life time of discipline washed away! And in it's place..." I GROWL LAUGH AND CRY at the same time. This is exhausting...

"BEDLAM!" I exclaim

"I'm so...old. There is nothing left, than dry bones, and dead friends."

"Tired...so tired."

"It'll pass. All of it, just another hour Adam, you're doing fine." Who?

"NO! THIS WEAKNESS DISGUSTS ME! I HATE IT! Where is my LOGIC? I am betrayed by desires...oooooohhhhhh....I--want to f-feel...I want to FEEL EVERYTHING!"

"But I am a Vulcan! I must feel NOTHING!" drool drips from my mouth

"GIVE ME BACK MY CONTROL!" I weep....Beverly yanks me out of it temporarily.

"ADAM!"

"Perrin...I wanted to g-give you so m-much more. I wanted to show you so much---t-t-t-tenderness...but that is not our way. "

"Spock... Amanda....did you know?? Michael...did-did you k-know? H-How m-much---h-much I LOVED YOUUUU! I LOVE YOU!!!" the last part is difficult to get out and I break down in tears.


"Adam..." Beverly tries softer to get my attention now

I exhale...I am again myself. I see Beverly sitting before me...beautiful red headed Beverly...my breathing starts to slow down.

"Beverly..." I gasp and grab her elbow. She winces under the sudden strength and I let her go....

"I'm here Adam." I can hear the tricorder scanning me...

"It--i-i-it is difficult...the---the anguish of the man...the despair, the regret. Pouring out of him, all of those--feelings." I start crying again

"I c-can't...I can't stop them...from coming."

"Don't even try." I feel Beverly squeeze my hands as I unleash the remaining emotions....I'm going to have to cook for both Beverly and Deanna after this.

A hour and a half later and the talks finally conclude and Sakkath restores both of us to ourselves once again. He was correct, the remnants of his emotions linger in the back of my head....he and I have shared an incredible experience. He knows now what I do, and I retain knowledge that he had.

I await in the Transporter Room along with Captain Picard and Commander Riker...as Sarek arrives along with Perrin and his two aides following behind him. The Captain and Sarek exchange pleasantries, while Perrin approaches me and offers both her hands, and I accept them.

"Thank you for what you have done for him. He won't say it but it means a lot."

"It was my honor and pleasure Madam."

I pause for a second. Damn. I should have let Jean-Luc do this...but he IS too important, to me as well, not just the ship. This was selfish. I admit that.

"He loves you very much."

"I know. I have always known." she smiles back at me and I nod

Sarek then steps in front of me. I am shaking a bit but I can't help it.

"I shall take my leave of you Captain, Mr. Young....I do not think we shall meet again."

"I hope you're wrong Ambassador." Picard says

"We shall retain the better parts of each other." he says to me

I hold my hand up in the Vulcan salute.

"I believe I have the better part of that bargain, Ambassador. Live Long and Prosper."

He raises his hand in return.

"Peace, and long life. Attend me my wife."

I watch the Vulcan continent then beam down and I slump along side the console...Riker and Picard help me up. I wave them both off.

"Are you all right Mr. Young?"

I slump and hold onto the transporter console, the toll this has been, is incredible.

"Residual effects of the...lingering emotions. Bev---Doctor Crusher says I'll be back to normal in a couple of days. Restrain...is---difficult right now." I reply

"What was it like?" Picard asks

"Overwhelming. Unlike anything that I have ever experienced before in my life, or will again. For the duration of the talks...I was HIM...I had his thoughts, his desires, his memories, his...Rao--his feelings. It was like several tidal waves that threatened to smash me...everything that the disease has done to his brain...absolutely devastating. It is depressing."

Picard nods.

"I'm ordering you confined to your quarters for rest and relaxation for a week. Doctor Crusher will monitor your condition until she deems you have been fully restored to yourself again. Understood?"

"Aye sir."

"Well done again Mr. Young. Off to bed with you though now."

"Thank you sir.

"No, Thank you Adam."

I just nod as I head back to my quarters.

Next Up: HIJINKS!!!! But not the kind you're all maybe thinking of in "Menage E' Troi"!!!
 
Chapter 35: Ménage a Troi? New
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The next few days are tiring still as I recover from hosting Sarek's emotions. It was much more than that though...as I said to Captain Picard, for those several hours I WAS Sarek as he is now. Trapped within his own mind...subject to his out of control emotions. They are Vulcan emotions so at least double what we feel. I asked Commander Riker how he was...and Will told me that he was ME. My charm, my wit, but also Sarek's abilities and knowledge---clear. It must have been an interesting experience to see.

Christy apologizes for her outburst at dinner...and I tell her it wasn't needed...we head to the beach on the holodeck for a few days and it helps but I still deal with the lingering effects of Sarek's rage. We make love a few times and Christy is impressed with my vigor.

"I think I posses some of Sarek's stamina..." I joke as we laugh in bed

I check in to my still weekly appointments with Deanna.

"How are you feeling?"

"Not fully myself yet but am getting there."

"How are things with Christy? You two were in the holodeck for a couple of days if I remember correctly? A program that Reg recommended to you?"

"Yeah. A little resort on Oahu. One of Reg's favourite places. It was a beautiful place. We had a lot of fun."

"You seem more relaxed."

"I hear you and Will have been dating again."


"We're not here to discuss my personal life."

I smile.

"Sorry. Deflection. Bad habit."

"I know."

"The truth is Deanna...I don't know how I am. That experience was so unique...so different from anything I've ever experienced before that I don't know how to express myself yet."

"I understand. Do you think you're ready to return to your studies? Worf has been asking about you."

"I think I can handle it...the question is do you think I'm ready?"

"I agree that you can handle some classes. I would suggest half of what you were doing before, for now at least. I will inform Commander Riker."

"Agreed....so your mom is coming aboard soon."

"We are not done our session yet Mr. Young."

"We're not? I don't have much else to talk about Deanna right now, or else I'd be more voluntary."

"You are still feeling the effects of the meld."

I nod.


"Yes, my mother will be visiting when we head to Betazed for the trade conference. Will and I are planning on spending some...time together. How did you know about us?"


"Gossip travels fast on the ship."

"We were planning a retreat together after the conclusion of the conference. Would you and Christy like to accompany us?"

"I'd have to ask Christy, but I don't think it is a problem. Oh yeah. Something important."

"Yes?"

"There's going to be an incident involving a Ferengi Captain...name of Tog, I think. He becomes...enamored with your mother, so much so that when she rejects him he kidnaps the three of you---"

"What are you suggesting?

"I believe he is part of the Ferengi delegation. I am suggesting that if it is at all possible at this late junction...if we could get him replaced with a less...problematic Daimon."

"I'm sure Mother will appreciate this."

"I'm looking forward to meeting her."

"You are?"

I laugh.

"I know you and her...argue sometimes, and she's overbearing, but that is because she loves you very much Deanna. More than you can possibly realize. Besides which, where I come from, she's a bit of an icon and fan favourite."

Deanna groans.

"You're going to get along famously with her then."

"It'd be my pleasure to give you two a bit of a reprieve from her."

"I owe you."

"Actually I still owe you and Beverly dinner, for helping me with the Sarek thing."

"You don't have to do that, we were doing our duties."

"You tolerated a lot from me---when I literally wasn't myself. You may have been doing your duty---but I still feel obligated to show you both my appreciation."

"Fine. After the trade conference then? When my mother leaves?"

I laugh again.

"Sure.

"We need to talk still about your surgery coming up. But we'll schedule that for another appointment."

"Good. You free right now?"

"Actually I am for a hour. Why??

"Ten Forward? Chocolate Sundae on me?"


"Sounds delightful."

I report to Worf's office. It's about a week or so after the ordeal with Sarek now. I'm still feeling the after effects of the mind meld. I was informed that it would probably linger with me for weeks. Sarek's memories and feelings intrude every so often, and folks have pointed out that I occasionally speak in his voice. Selar has been helpful in aiding with...controlling these effects. I enter Worf's office and there is a striking officer there with Lt Junior grade pips on her collar. She resembles Mekia Cox, Nyla Harper from "The Rookie".

"Mr. Young. How are you feeling?" Worf asks---I don't think I've ever heard Worf ask THAT particular question before, and he does so laced with sarcasm.

"The same, sir. Counsellor Troi however thinks I am able to resume my studies." I reply

"Excellent. We we proceed with caution, until we can be certain the effects of the mind meld have completely vanished. This is Lieutenant Maia Morani. I have assigned her as your...TO. You will follow all of her orders as if they were coming from me. She will report to me at the end of each day, and I will evaluate your progress." Worf says

"Aye sir. Lieutenant."

"Report to the gym on the double, boot." she snaps at me and I kick into high gear.

Oh boy. This can't be good for me.

The Trade Conference takes place as it does in the episode---the Ferengi Alliance question the request to remove Daimon Tog from their delegation---I believe he was the captain of the ship that transported the Ferengi reps to Betazed...but not wanting to jeopardize losing potential profits---Grand Nagus Zek accepts the recommendation and orders another Captain and ship to transport his delegation to Betazed so I effectively butterfly the episode.

Christy agrees to the double date invitation, she's always wanted to go to Betazed anyway and never gotten the chance to do that. I think she's a little hesitant to hang out with senior officers, and I choose to not bring up the fact that she agreed to date Geordi on the show---that conversation probably wouldn't turn out well for me. Training with Lt. Morani has been...exhausting. She has me on a short leash. Hand to hand combat, combined with weapons training, profiling, heavy physical training, I'm now down to almost 200 pounds and dropped nearly 25 percent body fat since arriving in the Star Trek Universe. I have just started learning law. This is on top of my other studies still as well. Those haven't stopped just because I picked Security.

The schedule for my surgery is finally been set---December 29...the day after my birthday. I'm not complaining at all as this will be life altering, but thought I would have at least a couple of buffer days afterwards to recover. So I'd best not have any booze at the inevitable birthday party that someone will no doubt plan or throw for me. I already suspect that either Christy or Deanna have been planning something for me knowing that I hate surprises---and I hate surprise parties even more.

I am called out of the blue to Transporter Room 3. Captain Picard and Commander Riker are wearing their dress uniforms, as is Deanna---which is unusual for her even in this time period.

Your mother? I send to her. Yes, unfortunately.

Miles slides the transporter controls---I will be starting my transporter training fairly soon and quite frankly it scares the shit out of me more than anything I've done so far--into their sequenced position and two forms materialize on the iconic platform. One VERY tall and slightly blue gray---the other one--iconic. It's Majel. I don't know who this Majel is young man, but I am flattered by your thoughts. Oh shit. Being called young man at 45---almost 46 is flattering to say the least.

"Ambassador Troi, welcome aboard." Jean-Luc greets as cheerily as he can possibly muster---I've butterflied his great moment too unfortunately.

"Jean-Luc!!! It is always grand to see you." She floats over...and stops herself from embracing him. when she sees me.

"Now who might THIS be? I've never seen you aboard before."

Before Captain Picard can introduce me or Deanna interjects---I stick out my hand and introduce myself to her.

"Madam Ambassador, it is a great honor to meet you. My name is Adam Christopher Young, and I'm the Special Civilian Consultant currently assigned to the Enterprise."

"Now...that is a proper greeting befitting the holder of the Sacred Chalice of Rixx...and a Daughter of the Fifth House of Betazed. I like this one, little one."

"Mother..."

Commander Riker is grinning that shit eating grin at me.

"I would be more than happy to escort the Ambassador to her quarters---with your permission of course Captain?"
Picard doesn't miss a beat. Riker continues to smile.

"Granted. I should go and see if the reception details have er...been seen to." and he leaves

Will follows and Troi barely acknowledges him unlike in the episode proper---and Mr. Homm picks up her luggage and follows us to her usual guest quarters.

"The truth is, Mr. Young, I am quite familiar with you. Your reputation is starting to proceed you."

"I thought it would at some point, given all the changes that I have started to make."

"It was brought to my attention by Deanna, that you requested to have the previous Ferengi Daimon removed from his position...and that I was the reason for it. May I ask why?"

"I suspect you already know Ambassador, but he was going to kidnap you, Deanna, and Commander Riker, and force you to mate with him." I reply

"I see....and you prevented that."

"That's correct....I mean hopefully. I can't tell what his replacement might try---but that particular Daimon was attracted to you, and you rightfully rejected him."

We enter her quarters and Mr. Homm heads to place her luggage in her room. She glides over to the couch and pats the place next to her.

"I uh..."

"Oh don't worry Mr. Young. I don't bite. You know me well enough from that silly show of yours...as you have been reminded before, we are NOT characters in a television show any more. We're flesh and blood. I know I am overbearing sometimes, but I am curious about you and would genuinely like to talk to you if you have the time. I know you are curious about me...the real me that is. Now...you can start by telling me all about who...Majel is and why I resemble her so much."

I sit down next to her and we end up talking for hours.

The conversation with Lwaxana was enjoyable...I found myself liking her and understanding her more than the show version. A complex woman who has seen and done a lot in her life and is wiser than most realize and just loves her daughter. I think I may have made another friend as well. Christy and I pack and beam down to the planet where we meet up with Will and Deanna. It is weird seeing them together again, not just due to my own feelings, but it's weird that this was never made a bigger deal on the show at this time. It was clear they were attempting to low key date again. Considering though what's about to happen in a few weeks...maybe it's good nothing transpired for it. But I am happy for them.

We spend the first couple of days at this couples resort on an island on the Opal Sea. Every exclusive. Very Posh. Christy likes it a lot but I'm not so hot on it. Will and I take the time to bond some more as he starts to understand me and I him. I have always liked Commander Riker...respect him greatly...as he mentioned a few months ago he is understanding how much all of them---all of THIS means to me. It is a time to just relax...something that has as of late been very hard for me to do. My foot has throbbing lately as well, but the surgery is finally around the corner. The tests on the cloned limbs have gone well so far...so now it is just a matter of my body accepting them during the surgery. The modeling projects a 99.8 percent chance of success and I told Beverly that I am more than okay with that.

For the last three days, Christy and I decide to go into Medara, which is the capital city of the planet. I'm taken aback a little bit because that name is not canon, it's from one of the RPG sourcebooks---I think possibly the Dominion War one, but don't matter. So perhaps my being here is creating a swiss cheesed reality now? My prolonged presence is making changes and it's adjusting to them? I don't know.

Christy as I have since discovered, is an avid art lover and as an engineer interested in architecture. So we head to the Betazed Museum of Art, Betazoids are known for their absolutely breathtaking landscape artists. Some of the best in the known galaxy actually. Christy tells me that I'm free to roam if I want to...which is gracious of her because as much as I love art, this is not really what I had in mind and decide to take a stroll. We both have our comm badges with us so not far out of reach of one another. As I wondering into a marketplace I'm approached by a stranger who asks me if I am who I am.

"Only on Sundays..." I joke

"I'm supposed to give this to you."

I take a small piece of crumbled up paper and before I look up again--the stranger is gone. Oh shit. I open up the piece of paper and see there are planetary coordinates.

"This clown expects me to be able to read coordinates? Jokes on them." I take my comm badge out and tap it.

"Young to Henshaw."

"Adam? Why are you using our last names?"

"Because I just encountered a stranger who knew who I was and handed me a piece of paper with a set of coordinates I don't recognize yet on it."

"Oh shit. What do you want to?"

"Clearly I'm supposed to go to them. I want you to stay where you are and alert Riker and Troi. If anything happens to me...the three of you are my only hope of getting out of whatever it is that I'm about to get myself into. Sigh. I just wanted a vacation."

"Okay. Be careful...and Adam.."

"Yes?"

"I love you."

"I love you too Henshaw. Young out." I say in my serious voice and cutting her off. Time to figure out what the fuck this is all about.

I end up going to the Federation Embassy and ask where the coordinates are from the piece of paper. Luckily, they don't ask questions and tell me that the location is Dalaria Spaceport which is actually nearby Medara which is also a coastal city---which surprised me. I head on over to the space port and the exact coordinates and I see a person wearing a black cloak---interestingly similar to a Vulcan robe, and I assume that this is the person. They are sitting outside a cafe. I approach with caution.

"I assume you are the person who has requested my presence?" I ask

The person nods and motions for me to sit down across from them, so I do so.

"I apologize for the subterfuge Mr. Young, but I deemed it necessary given the confidentially of the subject that I am about to broach with you."

"You have me at a disadvantage. You know who I am, but I have no idea who you are. A rare occurrence."

The stranger reaches up with their hands and lifts off his hood...to reveal that he is a...Romulan?

"I assure you that I mean no harm...I understand why you alerted your shipmates, but I am here only to converse with you. Nothing more."

"Before I tell my friends to back off...who are you? I get you're Romulan...that's no doubt part of the reason for this clandestine bullshit, but WHO are you?"

"I am Sub-Commander T'Sek, part of Romulan Special Operations."

I arch my eyebrow.

"Special Operations? The Star Empire has no such designated organization. Either you're Tal Shiar, or Imperial Intelligence."

"Impressive. It would appear the rumors about you are true. You ARE aware of us more than we were aware previously."

I shiver.

"I am neither. I am here on behalf of a mutual...associate on the subject of...Hobus."

Oh shit. I slowly take my comm badge out.

"Young to Pretty Eyes ."

"Pretty Eyes here. Are you okay? I've Red Leader and Crimson Dawn here."

I can't help but smile at the codenames. Of course I came up with them. I have codenames for the entire senior staff--for situations JUST like this one.

"I'm fine. I'll see you...shortly. I'm green." I wonder if that will alert my...friend here

There's a pause.

"If you're certain then. We'll see you back."

"I'll message when I can. Young out."

I put the comm badge back into my pocket and resume the conversation with the Romulan.

"We can talk freely now. You're here about...the shining star?" I ask and the Romulan nods once

"I have been sent to discuss with you...how to best proceed with dealing with this future crisis. There have been...preliminary overtures made by representatives of our governments---on how to deal with this. However as you are aware, the political situation on Romulus---is not suited to accept such an alliance with your people. We can not even agree with the cloaking technology proposal. If this ever got out----"

"The panic it would create amongst the populace would be a disaster. Wait---how DO I know you're not Tal'Shiar?"

"The needs of the many...outweigh.."

"The needs of the few."

"Or the one." he finishes the code I refrain from crying. Damn quote always triggers me. Spock...

"I understand. This organization though---"

"Formed in secret by members of the Senate...unbeknownst to the Praetor or even the High Command. We are few---I have been tasked as your personal liaison. It is my hope that we can work together...in secret at first, then hopefully as relations improve between our peoples---in open to find a solution to this...critical problem."

I see the sincerity in T'Sek's eyes. He's genuinely sacred. I don't blame him. Gamma Ray bursts absolutely terrify the shit out of me. One of the few genuine things that do.

"Okay. I accept your proposal...however I have no ideas at the moment. If I did...I would have included them in my report."

"My superior...suggested that you knew of a plan that he helps to develop."

"Yes but that plan is decades into the future...the substance that he uses isn't even in existence yet. In an idealized situation, we would have to utilize both our people's scientific and military assets to resolve this...and Hobus hasn't even reached critical stage yet."

"It is a conundrum is it not? However you will have the meager resources I can offer. All I ask is that we continue to maintain contact...even if it is in a clandestine way. I regret this strategy...I did not anticipate you informing your friends as I mentioned...what will you tell them, of this?"

That's a damned good question. But then I get an idea.

"I'll tell them that your superior sent you---for aide with the movement. They're not aware of that---but they do know he is...diplomatic in nature, and that I have cultivated his services in the past. It'll be a little convoluted---but I'll sell it."

"Very well...this has been most enlightening Mr. Young. I look forward to our next conversation."

"As do I. Good Journey S'Tek."

I watch as he re-lifts the hood over his head and leaves. I wait a few more minutes before---

"Young to Henshaw."

"Henshaw here...holy shit Adam. Are you good?"

"Yeah I'm good. I'm on my way back to you...everything's clear. I was in no danger."


"What was that all about?" Riker asks

"A beginning...Will...a beginning. I'll explain when I get back to you all. I assure you that I'm okay."

I explain everything about the encounter at the spaceport...and Deanna senses that I am holding something but but otherwise they all buy it. The rest of our vacation goes smoothly. When we return to the ship---Beverly says that everything is ready for the surgery now if I want to under go it now. It is a decision that I am not ready for---and tell her I'd like to do it at the scheduled time and she agrees.

Christy and I get ready for my first Christmas on the Enterprise....we have a tree set up in my---our quarters. It's decorated...and it's festive on the ship despite it not looking like that. As I said Christmas is a thing, but not as big in this time as in our time. Also it's mostly a Earth based holiday so not really celebrated throughout the Fleet.

Enterprise discovers a crashed escape pod as we enter an unexplored star system...it turns out to be "John Doe". I'm immediately called to sick bay where I find Captain Picard already there with Doctor Crusher and "John". Beverly quickly tells me about him and I look at the man in awe.

"Hello John...it's a honor to meet you." I say, I know I repeat this greeting with everyone but it truly is an honor to meet all of these characters.

"I wish I knew why it was..."

We politely all chuckle and as John is put back on the bio-bed after his fall I turn to the Captain and Doctor.

"There's nothing I can do for him...but I can tell you he is from a race of beings that is unknown to us in this sector of the galaxy. I think there was some speculation that he might've been from the Delta Quadrant. I don't know who he is---but he has---special abilities. Doctor, you've noted already that he has mutating cells. He has the ability to regenerate quickly, and also use that energy to heal others. I need to be careful here...because he has a destiny...I can't interfere with. I can assure you though that he is no harm to the crew or the ship---but when he's ready---and he'll know when---he will need to leave. Until then, he will need YOUR help Beverly."

Picard recognizes my tone and Beverly blushes slightly. They get it.

"Very well. We will monitor him from afar. I will leave him to your expert care Doctor. If anything strange happens inform me immediately."

"Aye sir."

"Oh yeah...one last thing I almost forgot. He's being hunted...there's a reason why he was in that escape pod. A species called Zalkoninans are after him---they think him a criminal...but he's not. I vouch for him---when that time comes---if I am needed---"

Picard nods. The rest of the episode transpires as it does in the show and John ascends into his energy being form and thanks everyone for their assistance including the Doctor's--who fell in love with him.

"Good Journey John, wherever it may take you."

"Thank you Adam...Good Journey yourself."

Next Up: Happy Bir---WE ARE THE BORG!!
 
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Chapter 36: The Best of Both Worlds Part I New
Paramount-SkyDance Own Star Trek. For Entertainment Purposes Only. Non-Profit.

Author's Note: Our first mega episode. It's long, so buckle up.

Two days after John ascends and leaves the Enterprise I get a message from Elizabeth.

"It's happening Adam. The Array has scored several positive hits, over the course of the last several days. According to your timeline they should be hitting J-25 in the next couple of days. The Admiral is already assembling the Fleet, he's been flirting with requesting Admiral Shanthi to go to Fleet Wide Yellow Alert but that would tip our hand...Captain Picard should be hearing from him shortly."

I nod. It's Christmas Eve 2366.

"Are you okay?" she asks

"I'm okay. This is what we've been planning for all this time. The Defiant?"

Elizabeth shakes her head.

"Despite your suggestions which we've implemented...she's not ready yet. Admiral Hanson wants to use her as the flagship...and frankly she's not performing like she should be. Is there something we're missing here?"


"Not that I'm aware of. If the changes were implemented...Defiant should be purring like a kitten, instead of roaring like a Lion."

Elizabeth chuckles.


"I've missed you. How are things with Christy going" she asks

"We'll see each other soon, unfortunately and absolutely fantastic. Actually...she just moved in her stuff permanently."

"Oh Adam, that's fantastic news! I'm happy for you both."

"Thanks Elizabeth...and yourself? Or no time for pleasure? Only work?"

"I've had a couple of dalliances since you left---nothing to really report about though. I've taken your advice and allowed myself SOME time to rest and relax. Adam...how bad is this really going to be? Are all our efforts going to be for nothing?"

"I hope not---and it's going to be bad. We've never faced anything like them. Q's introduction was a wake up call...as it was intended to be. There are dangers in the universe we're simply not prepared for. We're explorers and scientists first---and while that is noble, it's not enough to content against species that simply don't care to negotiate...or in the Borg's case--can't. This will be bad."

"I'll see you soon then....Merry Christmas!"

"Merry Christmas to you too Elizabeth, and give my love to your parents, and JP as well." She nods as the comm ends.

I've been waiting all year for this. It's almost time. The Borg are nearly here...Ron Jones score starts in my head.

Christmas is a quiet affair as it is just myself and Christy. We exchange presents and I replicate us a traditional Christmas dinner...it is a far cry from the meal that Elizabeth's parents prepared last year, but it's actually not that bad. I've become accustomed to replicated meals now. It is still quite the experience. The best possible analogy or comparison I could give it---is like that scene from "The Matrix"---where Cypher is dining with Agent Smith and he's having steak---he knows the steak isn't real--but the simulation is so convincing that it is tricking his brain into thinking it is real...that's similar to replicated food and beverages except the proteins and all that are actually being replicated. I guess it's more like CLONED artificial food. That might be a more similar description than the one I gave.

Boxing Day is a quiet one as I await the news I have been dreading since first Arriving in this universe over a year ago...Christy has noticed my changed demeaner and I tell her what I've been anticipating.

"When does it happen?" she asks me over dinner on the 27th.

"Tomorrow it happens.

"On your birthday? Shit."

I nod

"What are you anticipating is going to happen?"

"Nothing good. Nothing that I can stop. I've done everything that I can this point...now...all I can do is is wait and see how events unfold."

"This must be tearing you up inside. You've had control over so much---but this---this isn't in the realm of that. What's making it worse for you---you can't tell me or anyone else what is going to happen, can you?"

"I've told the people that matters what to expect. One person in particular I made a promise to if the thing happens that I expect, I will do everything in my power to stop it--even if it means sacrificing myself." I say cold

"Adam..."

"Christy...I love you. Very, very much. These last 8 months with you have been beyond what I can possibly describe to you---but I just want you to know that. In case anything happens."

She nods and we kiss for a few minutes. Christy lets it slip then.

"We're throwing you a surprise party tomorrow."

"What?!" I ask half upset

"It was Deanna's idea. She said she knows you hate surprises, and I told her yes, you'll absolutely hate this---but then we started talking---really talking. I love you too Adam, you have made an impact on this ship and her crew more than YOU realize...you've become important to them. We want to show you our love and respect---just as much as you've wanted to earn ours."

I chuckle quietly.

"What?"

"I suspected something...you two being the culprits. Thank you...thank you very much. I'll pretend to be surprised."

"I don't think Deanna will be too upset if you're NOT surprised."

"Hmm. I'm thinking of something we could do after we finish up dinner here..." I lean over and kiss her, she leans into me.

"Desert?"

"Before desert."

We hurry to the bedroom.

It's happening. My party is interrupted as we get a distress signal from Jouret IV. I am called to the Transporter room where I meet up with Commander Riker, Data, Worf, and LaForge.

Data hands me a phaser and tricorder.

"Anything from the surface??" Riker asks

"No sir. There have been no communications from the colony in the last 12 hours." Worf replies

"Sensors picking up any signs of life?" he asks

"None." Worf replies. Riker turns to me

"What do you expect to find down there Mr. Young?"

"Nothing sir. Absolutely nothing." I say sadly. He simply nods

"Surface is safe for transport sir." Miles says from the console

Riker nods and motions for us to take our places. We beam down to the surface...and it's just like in the show. I'm in shock.

"My Rao..."

It is a barren wasteland. Riker is so stunned that he has Miles verify the coordinates again. This is indeed where New Providence once stood. A beaming colony of several million people. All gone. We can see the metal foundation of the remaining buildings deep inside the rock base...torn bits of metal. Data, Geordi, and Worf start their scans. Riker turns to me.

"This is..."

"I know sir. I Know. This is what I've been trying to stop since I got here though. I don't think it was coincidence that my Arrival was just after your first encounter with the Borg."

He nods.

We spend the next hour collecting data and then beam back to the ship.

A couple of hours later...happy fucking birthday to ME by the way...Admiral Hanson arrives with Elizabeth. I am in the transporter room with Captain Picard to greet them. J.P. shares informalities with Jean-Luc then turns his attention to me.

"You're looking well son. It's good to see you again." we exchange hand shakes

"It's good to see you again too sir."

"I wish it were under better circumstances, but it's as you said. Everything is proceeding as you said it would Adam."

Elizabeth steps forward as the Admiral introduces her to Captain Picard. They exchange pleasantries and while J.P and Jean-Luc talk again I greet Elizabeth.

"Lieutenant-Commander Shelby...it is my honor to see you again."

"Mr. Young. You look well."

"I am well."

"Happy Birthday."

"Thank you...a little...bit of a different one this year."

"Yes."

Talk about awkward. J.P. stops us as Captain Picard and I escort them to the ready room. Admiral Hanson briefs Captain Picard about our status up to this point...and informs him of what my part in the Borg Task Force was.

"I'm sorry to have keep you in the dark like this about Adam, Jean-Luc but Starfleet Command was insistent that his activities last year be kept above top secret. There are only about two dozen people in the entire universe that are aware of his participation in the program and what he implemented. As Commander Shelby reported, we're not anywhere prepared that we should be...we've done our best to get ready but..." Picard nods as he glances over at me.

"Number One...why don't you escort the Commander to her quarters." Picard asks and Riker nods. I watch as the two of them leave.

"Keep your eye on her Jean-Luc. She's one impressive lady. Adam can attest to that." I blush.

"You seem rather taken with her J.P."

"Just an old man's fantasies. When Shelby came into Tactical, every Admiral's Uncle had their take on the...Borg but then she read Mr. Young's report and had a vision. Cut right through it, got us back on track."

"Earl Grey?" he asks Hanson and then glances at me.

"Please." he replies and i nod

"She'd make you a hell of a first officer."

There it is. I grimace.

"I already have a hell of a first officer."

I watch their back and forth about Riker and sip my tea quietly.

"You're unusually quiet Adam. Happy Birthday by the way as well...how old are you now?"

"45 sir."

"You're looking exceptionally healthy. I have read the reports on your training progress...you've not flunked out yet. Impressive. I know you can handle all the reading stuff...you love that stuff---but how are you doing on the practicum?"

"Not so well but enough to pass."

"You've chosen Security? I must say that surprised the hell out of me when I read that." Hanson says

"I know, but I was struggling with everything else, and Security seemed..."

"Like a quick fix? I'm assuming that you've discovered it's not."

"No. Sir. It's been hell. I can show you bruises." he chuckles

"No need, Mr. Young. Lieutenant Worf and Lieutenant Morani's reports have been more than sufficient."

I nod


"I'm surprised there's no party going on."

"There was. It got disrupted by the distress signal. Everyone's still in Ten Forward---or was." I reply

J.P. looks apologetic. He then takes out a little box. Where was he hiding that? I'm bamboozled.

"This is a little something I brought for you. Happy Birthday Adam."

I open it and in it is a old watch...and I mean...old it's like from the 1980's in our time.

"That was my grandfather's watch. My kids don't want it. They have no interest in antiques...and Meg is making me toss out all the old stuff. I want this to go to someone who appreciates the past. It's an old Hamilton watch. It still works."

I'm speechless. Picard allows a smile.

"Thank you sir. I don't know what to say."

"Thank you son. It's the least I could do for what you've done for us."

I try not to cry.


Poker night happens as it does in the episode---however this time it is the continuation of my birthday party. Christy is behind me watching as Elizabeth joins us. I haven't had time to partake in the weekly poker---because I'm usually resting from my studies but since this is my birthday it's an exception. We're playing stud which I absolutely hate. I look down at my chips...I'm losing. Wesley is joining us as this is first session at the senior officers game and his inexperience is showing. He maybe a legit genius---but he has no idea how to play poker. Beverly is the only one absent as she's getting sickbay ready. Deanna is the dealer.

"Oh Wes...don't let Commander Riker intimidate you." I say

"Intimidate? Me? Never." Wes replies overconfident. Sigh.

"What's your play Mister Crusher?" Deanna asks

"Got another King in the hole Data?" Wesley asks

"I am afraid I cannot answer that Wesley. And as you are a newcomer to the game, may I say it is inappropriate for you to ask. I will buy another card, Counsellor."

Owned by the Android.

Deanna deals him one

"No help there."

"Fold. Again." Geordi says

"Three Jacks looking back for the handsome looking Ensign. A pair of ducks for our tactical advisor. Flush, possible straight flush for Commander Riker, Adam?"

I look at my hand. I have two pair, 4's and 10's...I know what the others hands are...THEY know that I know this too. This is not about me though. I smile at Will.

"I fold." I catch Elizabeth gaping at me. She's seen me play poker before.

Christy rubs my shoulder and I grab her hand slightly.

"Your bet Mister Crusher."

"I'm in for ten."

"Call." Elizabeth says

"So what's the deal with you and Adam?" Geordi asks which everyone now turns their attention to the both of us

Elizabeth looks at me and I bow my head. Gently squeeze Christy's hand.

"Adam and I dated briefly last year. Working as close as we did together...it kind of just happened ."

"I never would have guessed." Geordi replies and Worf grunts uninterested

"So she's your mysterious partner you refused to mention to us." Deanna says gently. Uh-oh. Elizabeth turns to me.

"You never told your friends about us?" Elizabeth asks

"What we had was private...between us. I was trying to respect you."

"But they're your friends. I knew that. I was completely fine with it..."

"Now it's time for the long pants. There's your ten...and one hundred more." Riker says interrupting the drama

"I appreciate that gesture Adam, but you could have told them about us if you'd wanted to."

"He's got the straight flush folks." Geordi says

"Not necessarily. Commander Riker maybe bluffing Wesley." Data adds

"I don't think so. Fold."

"With THREE Jacks? What are you kidding? Wesley, you may get straight A's in school, but there's a lot you need to learn about poker."

I laugh. I'm enjoying myself.

Elizabeth turns to me.

"You folded...you're also losing which is curious to me. You know exactly what hand Commander Riker has in this moment. You folded. Why? "
I raise my hands up.

"Hey...you're not getting anything from me. He bamboozles me just as much as he does all of you."

"You're lying." Elizabeth says

"I've got two pair...but I've got to see your hole card. I call." turning her attention back to Will.

Riker grins. Turns over the deuce of spades and Shelby has him beat. She turns to me.

"You knew, yet you folded. Why?"

I clasp my hands together so the points meet.

"It's like I keep saying to all of you. I know things...I know the terrible things yet to come, but I also know the good things, the little moments in between, that keep us all sane. This is one of those. What would be the point in me of robbing this moment from both of you?" I get up and take Christy's hand.

Besides which, if Wesley hadn't folded for some reason, I would have lost to him. So there's that.

"Thank all of you for a wonderful birthday under the circumstances."

"Happy Birthday Adam." everyone says and then as we leave I hear Commander Riker say...

"Was that just a teaching moment I missed?"

My birthday concludes with Christy and I making love...and I am up early the next morning. Admiral Hanson has long since gone as Shelby is already terrorizing the Enterprise crew, who aren't used to her command style. I head to Main Engineering where I find Data, Geordi, and Wesley with her at the "pool table" working on figuring out the Borg cube's systems....based largely on my report of course.

"Are you here to work or to observe Mr. Young?" she asks and I snap to attention

"Both if you'll have me."

"Of course we'll have you. We're working from your own report. Geordi...show him what we have so far."

I shake my head.

"Nothing that we currently have aboard--can be adapted or otherwise to prevent them from doing whatever they want."

"I refuse to believe that. I did last year when we had this argument and I still do."

"He's right though Commander. Enterprise's systems are simply no match for the Cube's."

"What about modifying the plasma phaser design? That could--"

"I think that's enough for today Commander. We'll reconvene at 0500 tomorrow morning."

"Sir, if I could remain with Data, and Mr. Young---who is fresh..."

"YOU need rest Commander." snaps Riker

I lean in towards her.

"You're pushing."

She glances at me with that LOOK that says fuck OFF. I back off. Her and Riker have their final exchange and she leaves. Riker glares at me.

"She's...impossible."

I smile.

"You know something funny...when I first met Commander Shelby, I thought much as you did sir. Indeed. I was taking my cues from how you have responded to her...and I ended up dead wrong about her."

"I know you know her...but..."

"Give her a chance, and time Will. She doesn't know the ship or the crew well...but she's damn good at her job."

"She's after my job I think."

"Then don't give her a reason to take it." I say and nod at him as I turn around leave with my arms behind my back.

Admiral Hanson briefs us on the status...and this time though all 40 ships of the Fleet are massed with him. Those who are within range, those who aren't have been given orders to rendezvous at Wolf 359 where the planned engagement is going to be. I'm frozen in place as I hear J.P. talk. I can't bring myself to acknowledge that this is the last time that I am going to see my friend, my mentor, the man who was like a father to me. The OTHER person who serves that function is taking in all of this rather well. Captain Picard is acknowledged as one of the finest naval tacticians of this or any time. He'd give Jim Kirk or Chris Pike a run for their credits. Fact of the matter is that I'm scared shitless. I have no idea what to expect. We're dismissed except for Geordi who lingers behind so that he and the Captain can have their discussion about their plans effectiveness.

I sit on the box on the bridge as I've been given permission to do so for this. Deanna beside me, senses my tension but I ignore her. It is hours as we wait. Then in my head I hear Ron Jones's haunting thing as the black metallic cube appears on the view screen.

"Mr. Worf...dispatch a subspace message to Admiral Hanson, we have engaged the Borg."

"Captain...they are hailing...Mr. Young?" Worf says and everyone is startled

"What?" asks Captain as he looks at me

"That's...that's impossible." I barely manage

"By name?" Picard asks and Worf confirms

"Yes sir."


"Data...is it the same ship we faced at J-25?"

"Uncertain Commander. The dimensions are practically the same."

"It--it's not."

I mutter processing this. Why...HOW do they know who I am?

"Adam..." Picard gestures and I step forward to stand beside him. I compose myself.

"On screen...I am---" I begin

"You Are Adam Christopher Young. Special Civilian Advisor to USS Enterprise, Registry Number NCC 1701-Delta. You will lower your shields and prepare to transport yourself aboard our vessel. If you do not cooperate, we will destroy your ship."

I am Captain Jean-Luc Picard, commanding the Enterprise. You have committed acts of aggression against the United Federation of Planets. If you do not withdraw immediately---"

"You are irrelevant, ---Adam Christopher Young--if you do not surrender yourself, we will destroy the ship. Your defensive capabilities are unable to withstand Us."


Picard orders the transmission paused. I am absolutely stunned. Riker approaches us, looks at me. Then Picard.

"What the hell do they want with Adam? How do they even KNOW about him?"

Elizabeth joins us now, concern in her eyes for me.

"I thought they weren't interested in human life. Only interested in our technology?"

"Their priorities seemed to have changed..." I can feel him glance at me without looking at him. I can't. I restore my gaze at the view screen. This shouldn't be happening.

"We have developed new capabilities since our last encounter and are prepared to use them, if you do not withdraw from Federation space."

"They're going to probe us..." I utter as Geordi reports just that

"This was a mistake." I say

Worf reports that they're locking their tractor beam on us.

"Load torpedo bays. Arm phasers. Lock coordinates on that beam...."

No. Not there. That's what they want us to target. I know how to end this---but I'm terrified beyond capacity to react.

"Shield status?"

"Holding sir." Data replies

"The nutation modulation has them confused."

"Temporarily..." i mutter

"They have the ability to analyze and adapt Commander." Riker snaps at her

I am still staring at the screen. HOW? Adam? Deanna asks. I can't reply to her I'm that stunned.

"Shield modulation has failed. They've locked on to us."

"Shields are being drained. Ninety---Eighty percent."

This of course continues until Picard orders us to fire on them...which has no effect. This is worse than in the episode. I can feel their cutting beam slice into us. Hear the music. Almost hear the screams...but I can't act. I am distracted.

"This shouldn't be happening like this."

Eventually we head into the nebula to buy time...and hide. The senior staff files into the conference room. I sit down in the chair--still stunned by all of this.

"What the hell was that? What do they want with Adam, and how in the hell do they even know about him?" Riker asks

The rest of them argue and debate---until Captain Picard finally gazes at me.

"Mr. Young...are you all right?"

I finally look up at all of them.

"No. I am not all right. Something is wrong. This isn't how this should be happening. They're stronger somehow. More precise. I don't know why. I don't know why they know about me. That should be impossible...as for WHY they want me?" I sigh.

"Adam?" Picard prompts

"They want me as a speaker. In extreme circumstances when a species resists as strongly as we have---the Collective generates suggestions for someone to act as a speaker. It is flawed logic on their part. Their way---of a...compromise. Their hope in doing this is that by seeing someone of their own species as a Borg...it will make that species..."

"Off guard? More culpable?"

"Yes."

"But why you? That doesn't make any sense..." Riker says

"It does actually make some sense. Captain Picard is a master tactician. One of the finest in the fleet...probably the best if I'm being perfectly honest. However they get the best of both worlds with me. Somehow they KNOW about me. My knowledge. I have seen what they do with the Fleet. It is been my very purpose since I have been here to try and stop it from happening. I may not have the Captain's operational abilities, I can barely operate a console right now---but they don't think like that. They think macro. Not micro. The big picture is that I have ALL of those memories...knowledge. They can extract that and use it against the Fleet, never mind my future knowledge."

"We must prevent them from taking you." Picard says

"Do you have it?" asks Elizabeth

"Have what?" Picard asks sharply

"This." I take from my jacket pocket a vial of black liquid. It isn't what you think. I put it on the table gently.

"What is that?" Geordi asks

"A counter-measure that Admiral Hanson, Commander Shelby, and myself developed last year. Not a virus...but in the insane probability that something like THIS might happen, the Admiral thought I should have a fighting chance."

"You've still not explained what it is yet Adam." Picard asks

"It is a kind of anti-virus. I need to be injected with it. The hope is that once it is in my antibodies, that once the Borg inject me with their nanites...it will help corrupt the assimilation process. Also it's designed to partially block them from getting too deep into my head. It's an idea that I came up with...it will take ALL my will power to see that it is effective....if it even is."

"How did you get it aboard?"

"I didn't. Admiral Hanson gave it to me. It was in the bottom of my Birthday present box, underneath the watch."

"That sly old devil." Picard mutters

"Doctor...Beverly...I need you to inject me with this now. They'll be hellbent on getting me now. They won't stop. I have faith in all of you to stop me should it come to that. I will do my part as I can, this should help."


Doctor Crusher takes the vial and from her lab coat takes out a hypo and pushes the vial into it. She then reaches me and injects it into my neck.

"Thank you Doctor."

From then we are given the tactical brief that happens on the episode. I hope this works J.P.

I briefly visit Elizabeth in her quarters and she's not happy.

"What the hell was that?" she asks

"You know what that was. We discussed it."

"You discussed it FOR Captain Picard!"

"And I would have given it to the Captain had the Borg...done what they were supposed to do and hailed him." I reply back

"I still don't understand why or how they know about you. How the fuck is that possible?"

"I don't know. I've been raking my brain since that...conversation. The truth is Elizabeth, Lizzie...I don't know, and I'm damned scared."

"I-I know. The others...you're putting on a brave face for them, even for Counsellor Troi---but Lt. Henshaw and I know your true face."

She reaches up and touches my cheek. I take her hand.

"You've spoken with Christy?"

"I like her Adam. She's good. Really good."

"I'm happy Elizabeth. Both you and Christy have given me something that I never, ever thought I would have...true happiness."

"Don't...don't talk like that."

"We don't have a lot of time left Lizzie. They're coming. We're going to have to warp out of this nebula soon. I don't know what is going to happen, but what I said in the conference table was true. I have complete faith that whatever happens...all of you will do your damnest to get me out of this. Then I'll owe you all a very big dinner."

"You said in your report that Picard and Hanson, were freed---we will make sure that happens for you. But you do something for me if what happens---happens."

"What's that?"

She grabs my face with both her hands.

"You FIGHT those bastards. Do you understand? You fight them with all your heart, all your will power...all your love. Don't let them take you from us---or I'm gonna kick your ass myself? Do you understand Mr. Young?"

"I understand Commander Shelby."

We hug as I cry.

The Enterprise is impacted by electromagnetic blasts that are emanating from the Borg Cube...and Picard orders us to depart the nebula at maximum warp. The Borg chase us as I watch from my quarters. I've been confined to quarters under guard by security. It is a reasonable precaution that probably won't work, but I didn't object to it at all. I watch as space streaks by in brilliant silver...the deck slightly...rumbles is not an accurate word---but on the D you can hear the sound of the warp engines at high warp vibrate throughout the ship. Enterprise is struck by one of the last charges and that significantly hampers our progress as the Cube is able to---I hear a familiar---unsettling twine...the sound of a transporter beam and automatically---

"Young to sec---"


Before I'm able to get the rest of it out I am injected with a sedative from the Drone....and I pass out.

I hear the sound of my boot prints on the metallic deck plates as four Borg escort me to the centre of the Cube. On either side of me there are alcoves lined with Borg drones. A rail separates me from the abyss. I look down anyway and see miles more of Borg. It repeats upwards and downwards.

"Adam Christopher Young, you serve on the largest ship of the Fleet. You speak for your people. "

"You've made a mistake. You've chosen the wrong person for that."

"Irrelevant. We have chosen you based on the knowledge you posses. You have seen the events of the immediate future transpire."

What? How could they know this? What is going on here?"

"How is it that you are aware of me? What I know? That should be impossible. "

"Irrelevant. You Will assist us."

"I would rather die. I will fight you with every last ounce of strength I posses."

"Strength is irrelevant. Resistance is futile. We wish to improve ourselves. We will add your biological and technological distinctiveness to our own."

I hear the last part in the voice of the Queen, and shiver.

"I wish to address the Queen."

"Denied."

"What you demand of me is impossible. Our culture is based on self-determination and freedom."

"Self-determination is irrelevant. Freedom is irrelevant. You must comply."

"I would rather die."

"Death is irrelevant."

I can feel the effects of the anti-virus flow through my blood. I am really hoping this works.

"Your archaic cultures are authority driven. To facilitate our introduction into your societies, it has been decided that a human voice will speak for us in all communications. You have been chosen to be that voice."

"You've made a mistake. I am not an authority figure. I---" my escorts forcibly grab me as our conversation is at an end. I struggle for a couple of seconds, then cease. They are correct. Resistance is futile. I must allow this to play out now...no matter how utterly terrified I am. I've never been more scared of anything in my life as I am right now.

I am escorted into a kind of---pre-assimilation centre--the white plastic draws room from the show. They use a laser scapel to remove my clothing...I'm going to miss that jacket, and remove my comm badge. I am then taken, naked, I am then taken into an adjourning chamber, where I see a medical bed and they force me down onto. Metal clamps shoot out to keep my limbs in place. One of the drones comes up from behind me and injects me with the nanoprobes....I GASP as I temporarily am unable to breathe---it is an unpleasant feeling...and then for another split second I am myself again before my veins pulse GREEN. That is my last memory as me. A nano-sheath suit begins to build on me---the all black suit that Locutus had...and just before I black out...I see a tiny needle about to pierce my eye and allow a single tear to stream down my cheek. 1000101010101.

A flood of memories barrage me as I slowly lose my individuality and the assimilation process takes effect. I see family, friends, my shipmates---Elizabeth and Christy. All of them swarm together in a cloud of mist in my head. My mind is like fire during this...experience. Black spider like devices then take over the memories--invading them...and then almost every thing is blanketed in darkness. Control. I fight for control. Fear is the mind killer---the---little--death--10010001--Resistance Is Futile. You Will Comply. No...I must FIGHT you---YOU WILL COMPLY...Locutus....

Darkness. I stand barely conscience inside of an alcove. The middle phase of the assimilation process has taken affect now. I hear them...hundreds of thousands---no---TRILLIONS of VOICES speaking as one. The Borg. We are the Borg. Somewhere trapped and isolated, I can hear myself screaming. A black metallic box has clamped over my brain and sealed it shut. This new programming has taken over as a kind of shell program. I am no longer Adam Christopher Young...I am...Locutus. I hear that voice. The one above the many---HER voice. She appears in front of Us...We can feel her hand stroke our cheek.

"Why are you fighting us Locutus? Is this not what you wanted?" "What?" "Your thoughts are OUR thoughts now Locutus. There is nothing you can hide from Us. You wanted this...you may have been surprised over our selection---Picard WOULD have been Locutus but YOU wanted this. Wanted to be the star of your own play." "That's insane." "Is it?" She snapped. "I wanted Picard safe. He didn't deserve---what you are doing to me. He didn't deserve THIS." "A cold description for the gift we have given you." "GIFT? This isn't a gift...this is a nightmare, and yes damn you, I will continue to FIGHT you. I will continue to fight you until I am no longer able to." "That is unfortunate." "How?" We ask her. "How do...you know about me? How is that possible?" The Queen smiles. It is cold. Devoid of any emotion.

"Jurati...we discovered about you from her abominations." Agnes? What? How? "We are simply not only a present Collective, but we exist in ALL time periods Locutus, and can access data from our past brother and sisters---the future is...complicated...however sometimes possible. In this case...due to--the Abominations actions...we were able to obtain information about you. Once that happened...a whole new plan formed. Picard has tactical and operational information that you do not, however it was decided that your future information was worth risking choosing you over him. Once we realized what you were capable of----it was a logical decision."

"If you have seen what I know already, then you know that you are beaten---your majesty. This ends. It will happen again...no matter what happens to me or what you make me do." "How noble. How utterly irrelevant." "Your overconfidence will be your undoing." "Your faith in your friends will be yours." Wait. What? Was that a Star Wars reference? Is the anti-virus working? The conversation concludes.

We stand observing the huge observation port inside the Cube. This is but one of hundreds scattered about the Cube. It is a a command and control opening---made specifically for Us. 1010001. A transportation is detected from the Enterprise to the Cube. The Collective is alerted and a response is calculated. This was expected. We turn to face the intruders.

"Adam!" Beverly exclaims

Worf attempts to charge Us, but instead is comically bounced off our personal shield. We send a quick command through the Collective. We request intervention. Security. Borg drones soon respond in kind. They attempt to fire on the drones but we have adapted to their phaser frequency. They soon beam back to the Enterprise.

"Vessel identified. USS Enterprise. Registry Number NCC 1701-Delta. Galaxy Class starship." The ship's tactical data appears in the corner of the observation monitor and in our personal HUD. We issue a command to hail the ship. We shift our vision slightly as Captain Picard appears on the viewer across from Us. Commanders Riker and Shelby along with Counsellor Troi are present on the bridge at their stations. We make note of this.

"I am...Locutus of Borg. Your Life as it has been, is over. From this point forward...you will...service Us."


Captain Picard doesn't hesitate.

"Mr. Worf, fire."

TO BE CONTINUED…
 
Chapter 37: The Best of Both Worlds Part II New
Paramount-SkyDance Own Star Trek. For Entertainment Purposes Only. Non-Profit

"And now...the Conclusion."

The Cube registers the build up of power through the Enterprise and into the deflector dish as the modified weapon slams into the Cube with disappointing effect. We knew of this possibility. We had seen it, and the Collective plucked this information from the one called Young AND Picard. Resistance is Futile. 1010001. The one called Young is still present---but buried deep beneath massive programming barriers. We feel him fighting---but it is akin to a bug or landing on Us. We ignore it and proceed. After the weapon ceases We prepare to address the ship.

"The knowledge and experience of the one called Young, is apart of Us now. It has prepared us for all courses of action. Your resistance...is hopeless...Elizabeth."

The One Called Adam Screams.

Stardate 44002.3

"Vessel identified. USS Saratoga. Registry Number NCC 31911. Miranda Class Federation Starship. Minimal threat. Recommended tactical engagement, activate tractor beam to drain the ship's shields, then target warp core and bridge with disruptors."

"Vessel is hailing Us." The Collective Reports

Buried somewhere in darkness the one called Young screams. NO! Please! Not this! Ben! NO!!!

It is the Vulcan Captain who orders us to stand down and withdraw. We will not comply.

"I am Locutus of Borg. Resistance is Futile. You will lower your shields and disarm your weapons and escort us to sector zero zero one...if you attempt to intervene, we will destroy you."

"Red alert. Load all torpedo bays. Ready phasers. Move us to position alpha, Ensign."

We stare at the one called Sisko briefly. Before issuing counter measures to the collective and ordering Us to fire on them. The Cube locks on target and scorches their hull and warp drive. We see escape pods de-clamp from the ship but We order not to fire on them. They are irrelevant. We watch as the Saratoga starts to drift...and then explodes. We order the Cube to resume course for sector zero zero one.

"Vessel identified. USS Constance. Registry Number NCC 10367, Constellation Class Starship. Recommended tactical engagement---previous recommendation is still valid. Proceed."

It continues as such as we slice through the entire Fleet as we reach System Wolf 359. This should be impossible...the knowledge that the one called Young possessed was inferior tactically to the one called Picard---but somehow the Collective has extracted BOTH of our combined knowledge. Intriguing. After Wolf 359 we proceed on course, without delay, to sector zero zero one. We are escorted back to the surgical table for the completion of the assimilation process and so that drones may perform further upgrades.

After this is completed we enter Sol System and We watch as we pass through largely un-assaulted. Most of Starfleet was gathered at Wolf 359 so their should be little to no resistance as we reach Earth. We approach the asteroid belt and Locutus orders the ship to drop out of warp speed. The collective alerts Us to the approaching Enterprise.

"Locutus of Borg, this is Commander William T. Riker of the USS Enterprise." Commander.

We blink slightly. This was not expected. Picard was expected. Unorthodox strategy while used in the original engagement was anticipated, this was not due to the change.

"You may speak." Locutus replies

"We wish to end hostilities." Riker says

"Then you must unconditionally surrender."

"We are prepared to discuss terms." Riker says

Distraction technique detected. A-a-t-t-t-1001001. We hear singing. We request correction assistance. G-glitch detected. Running self-diagnostics.

"It is unlikely you are here to discuss terms. It is more likely that this is an attempt at deception." ALAMARINE.

We order an immediate scan of the---area---ALAMARINE COUNT TO FOUR. ALAMARINE THEN THREE MORE. ALAMARINE IF YOU CAN SEE ME! ALAMARINE COME WITH ME! Resistance is Futile. 101010---error. We request assistance.

"Come now Locutus, if you posses Young's knowledge and experience, then you know that I've never lied to him. You should implicitly trust me, is that not so?"

"Young implicitly trusts you."

Riker smiles.

"Then meet me now, to discuss terms"

"Discussion is irrelevant. There are no terms. You will disarm all weapons and escort us to sector zero zero one, where we will assimilate your culture and technology."

Riker doesn't respond as he reacts to a report from Ensign Gleason. ALAMARINE!!!! The communication ends as it is replaced with the Enterprise firing an anti-matter burst in all directions. Deception. The Collective is confused....we are not. The sensors detect no activity nearby. We request another scan. Intruder alert. Intruder alert. We turn , and Worf and Data approach Us ...then everything goes dark.

We are revived in sickbay by Doctor Crusher...we activate our internal sensors and begin scanning our environment.

"Adam, can you hear me?" asks the Doctor

"Beverly. Crusher. Doctor."

"Don't try to move."

"I am onboard the Enterprise."

"That's right." Riker says as Picard stands beside him watching

We attempt to request assistance from the collective, however are experiencing difficulty. Our proximity from the Cube maybe the reason. We continue attempting to request aide.

"A futile maneuver. To risk your ship for the life of one man...not even a member of your c-c-crew." We stutter as they all notice it

Error. Error. Attempting to compensate. ALLAMARINE!

"Jean-Luc, something is happening to him." Beverly observes

"Yes, but what?"

Processing error. Establish program shell overwrite. Attempting to re-establish connection to collective. Stand by. Security measures being implemented.

"You underestimate us if you think this abduction is any concern. There is no need for apprehension, I intend no harm. NO HARM. I will continue, aboard this ship, to speak for the Borg, while they continue without further diversion to sector zero zero one, where they will force your unconditional surrender."

We stand up and get off the bed.

Doctor Crusher continues to scan us while the Klingon--Worf--the one called Young was fond of both of them---towers over us with an unwelcoming sneer.

"Worf. Klingon species. A warrior race. You too will be assimilated."

"I like my species the way it is."

Heh. Error. Glitch. Processing.

"I am aware of what you are attempting to do...your efforts to disrupt the connection between us...will not prevail---Number One."

Doctor Crusher quickly reaches up and injects our neck with a hypo and everything is dark again.

They hook Locutus up to Data's lap as I AM AWARE again for the first time in a long while. It is like what I imagine would be coming out of a coma. In fact that is exactly how I would describe this experience. A long sleep. I have slowly attempted to reassert myself but the Collective continues to implement protocols to regain control over me. The anti-virus has worked, not to a degree in which I had hoped...but enough to give me a fighting chance. The crushing weight of billions of Borg on my mind has exhausted me. It is literally like having a brick or some object squished down on your brain. I have been violated in ways that I can not properly convey, and choose not to. I sense the Collective---they are panicking. As predicted their plan is failing. I sense someone else in my mind, someone that is familiar to me but doesn't appear as a conscience or sub-conscience construct. They appear as numbers. Code. Floating in abstract. Is that...Data? DATA!? "Data if that is you in here rummaging around old friend. Sleep Data. Put them to fucking sleep." Christy! DEANNA!! "DEANNA! CAN YOU HEAR ME!? IT IS ADAM! GET ME OUT OF HEAR! END THIS PLEASE!"

"Adam, be calm please. This is Data. I am attempting to access the Borg neutral network. Any assistance you can provide me would be helpful." he replies

"Troi to bridge."

"Picard here.

"Data has made first contact with Adam!" Troi exclaims

"Acknowledged. Can you communicate with him Data?" asks Picard

The fact that we can hear this conversation is promising indeed.

"I am attempting to do just that, stand by sir." Data replies

With everything that is me I reach out with my arm and grab Data.

"It's him! It's Adam!"

"Yes."

"Sleep." I barely managed.

"He's exhausted."

That's an understatement. I haven't been this tired in forever. I haven't used my own body myself in a week.

"Yes, Doctor, however I believe that Adam is attempting to suggest a course of action rather than fatigue."

Come on Data. I'm Trying here. Shut the mother fuckers down!

"Sleep Data."


Data!!!! I love you!!! I fight now. The plan was to slowly introduce random pop culture references into the Collective. Since I am assimilated into THEIR Collective, they're taking everything I have and know. With Captain Picard---it was his fleet and tactical knowledge. With me...it was what I know from show---but also all my irrelevant trivial knowledge, and pop culture stuff. Seb calls it "Pip news"--it's meant to be an insult and an inside joke reference to "South Park" but I have taken it as a badge of honor in recent years. The Queen making a Star Wars reference was the first indication of it working...they've countered as much as they possibly could do...but it appears to have worked a little bit. While Data and the others have their conversation...I manifest as a kind of Avatar in my head as He-Man!!!

Ernie from Sesame Street laughs

"Heheheheheheheheheeeeeeeeeh."

"Hello Bert." as I assault the Borg. I hold aloft the magic sword. I can hear HER VOICE scream no as I am breaking free.

"I Am Adam, Prince of Eternia. Fabulous secret powers were revealed to me the day I held aloft my magic sword and said..." "BY THE POWERRRR OF GREYSKULLLLLLL!!!!!!!!"

Lighting bolts appears and crackles around me as the Power of Greyskull strikes the sword and hits me. Electrifying me. I then bring the sword down to my waist and hold it on either end.

"I HAVEEEE THE POWERRRRRRRRRRRR!!!!!" as the transformation is completed. I am now He-Man! The Most Powerful Man in the Universe!! As I push one final time, and finally...break the connection with the Collective!

I feel...yes...I FEEL...as I'm jolted around by the disruption of the signal being broken. Then incredibly...as I slump down in exhaustion, I am ME again. Tears streak down both cheeks and I don't stop them.

"B-Beverly..." I whisper as my voice is coarse. I haven't actually spoken in a week. It was Locutus speaking with MY voice literally.

I slump again but Deanna and Beverly help me up as they open the little door. I can barely walk. It's because I---Adam---haven't walked in a week.

"How do you feel?" Deanna asks I look at her but sense she's keeping something from me

"I'm exhausted. N-never b-been t-this tired b-before."

"How much do you remember?"

Remember. Remember. Remember....the sound of phasers and disruptors echo in my head.

"All of it...including a bit of unorthodox strategy from a first officer of some note, no doubt approved by his Captain."

Riker smiles

"Come on let's get you out of here." he says as I struggle out of the apparatus


Up Next: Recovery
 
Chapter 38: Recovery and Reflection New
Paramount and SkyDance Own Star Trek. For Entertainment Purposes Only. Non-Profit.

The procedure to remove all the Borg hardware takes several hours. I request to be put under like usual. Just a peace of mind thing. I don't want to be awake during an operation. I already know what they are doing. I don't need to see it too, nor do I want to annoy them by being tempted to play doctor during surgery either, so I'd just rather be under. It's better for everyone that way. I have nightmares while I am under. Terrible ones. I suspect that I will be plagued by them for the rest of my life---just like Captain Picard was.

Afterwards, Doctor Crusher performs a post-op scan on me and I check out---healthier than I was previous to the assimilation.

"Whenever a drone is assimilated, the Borg will swap out any defective limbs, the Nanites will go about their business and eradicate any infections or ailments that drone is suffering from. In your case...Adam, the nanites regenerated your foot." Beverly reports

I've been so trapped inside my brain I haven't noticed.

"What?"

"Yep. Totally reconstructed it. Everything. Bone. Muscle. You have your brand new foot Adam."

"I...I don't know what to say." I start weeping

"Have you heard yourself speak lately? I Mean since you've been back?"

"No."

"They repaired your cleft palate as well. Regenerated you a brand new one. You no longer speak with any nasal sound."

"What else?"

"Your appendicitis scar is gone."

I look down and rub it slightly...it's clean. Like it never happened.

"In fact you're not only in peak physical health...probably for the first time in your life....it seems like they've actually enhanced you."

"Enhanced. How?"

"We'll have to do some tests when you're ready...but I would theorize you now posses above average strength, speed, and stamina. So not superhuman, but you'd be able to play sports if you'd like to do so now. I assume that due to your...status as speaker, the Borg Queen ordered that you be absolutely optimal. Fully enhanced. We were able to reprogram the remainder of the Borg Nineties. In theory, they will immediately fight any infection or cold you may encounter. It is highly likely you will never be sick again. Injured? Yes."

Was Seven like this? Probably. I think I included this in my Borg report.

"Rao..."

I see Deanna walk in. Her hair doing that bouncing thing it does when she walks.

"How is our star patient doing Doctor?"

"Aside from the surgical scars from the operation, he's doing fine. Your thermal bandages will need to be on until your scars heal. They're water proof so you can use them in the bath or shower but I will need to check on them to see if they need replacing in a couple of days time."

"How long are we talking about here?"

"A few days at best." I nod

"May I have a few minutes with Adam please Beverly?" Deanna asks. I know that tone.

I see the expression on Crusher's face. This is what Deanna was hiding from me. What has happened? What ELSE has happened in my absence? Beverly nods and tells me she'll be back later.

"Adam. Something happened while you were...gone. Something..."

I realize what it is she is going to tell me.

"I know...Christy. She's...she's...dead."

Deanna sits beside me. I feel a well of emotion stir. Christy...my poor Christy. I'm so so sorry.

"She was killed during--"

"I killed her. Deanna."

I say cold as tears start to streak down my cheeks

"Locutus killed her. You did not. You are NOT responsible for the actions taken by the Borg."

"I AM LOCUTUS!" I Roar then stop myself

"I feel responsible. There will be some who will think otherwise, and they're not totally wrong. My Rao...Christy."

I cry into Deanna's shoulder for a few minutes.

"Is there a body?" I barely manage to whisper.

"Yes, but I don't think..."

"I want to see her."

Deanna nods and takes me over the morgue which is in a room just off to the opposite side of sickbay. Selar is there and simply nods to both of us, she was expecting us. We go in and several dozen torpedo coffins are lined. All of them with Federation Flags. I did this. I allow the tears to flow. Deanna takes me to the one that is Christy's.

"Open it." I say.

"Adam..."

"OPEN IT!" I COMMAND no longer the person I was when I first boarded the ship. I have been made unto steel.

Deanna touches a small button and the tube latch unlocks and opens to reveal the scarred remains of my girlfriend. I am Locutus of Borg. From This Moment Forward. You Will Service Us.

I touch her scarred face.

"I am so so sorry Christy. I don't know what to say, except you didn't deserve this fate. None of you did. I was...we were..."

I fall to my knees and hug the torpedo tube. Deanna and Selar hold me while I cry. This isn't fair. This isn't how this should have happened, but this is how it is

Later. I am alone in my quarters when I hear the door chime. Wearing Starfleet medical recovery shorts and t-shirt. My gray thermal bandages are visible on my right cheek up to the temple, right arm, and right leg, showing A glass of Pepsi sits on my coffee table. Wait. Not Coke???

"Come."

Elizabeth walks in followed by Captain Picard, Commander Riker, and Counsellor Troi.

"I'm disembarking. I just wanted to say Good Journey to you." Elizabeth says as we hug

"Congratulations on the promotion, Commander. I...I wish we had more time to...catch up."

"It's okay. We'll have more time when you've fully recovered. I'm so sorry about Christy."

"Thank you."

Shelby then turns to Riker.

"I trust you'll have pick of any Starfleet command sir?"

Riker becomes exasperated, then frustrated. This has rattled him personally.

"Everyone's so concerned with my next job. With respect Commander, Captain, Counsellor, my career plans are my own and no one else's, but's nice to know I have a few options."

I thought this was a lame response to this but this episode attempted to have an upbeat ending. I feel kind of bad. I stunted Will's chance to prove himself in the centre seat---but then I know the truth. He's already proven himself. He just is comfortable here. He doesn't want to leave because of Deanna.

"I can think of no one suited to oversee the reconstruction of the Fleet than you, Commander, J.P. would have been very proud." he notes

I cringe inside. He would have been proud of us both. Thank you Admiral, for everything.

"Thank you sir. We'll have the fleet up and running in no time."

In theory there should be no one standing in our way of increasing the Fleet's output now. Even Jaresh Inyo...can see the threats that the Federation faces. A dark look briefly flashes across my face.

"I hope to have the good fortune of serving with you again sir."

Picard nods. The others then leave the two of us alone.

She gently rubs my arm.

"I wish I could stay Adam, but...Mars beckons. This is a chance now to begin the work the two of us have wanted to implement from the start."

"Be mindful Lizzie. The warhawk faction now will be festering to take advantage of the situation that the Borg have created, but there are allies out there. They will come to you."

"From you?"

"Maybe. I dunno...but they'll see the necessity of what you're doing and block the war hawks from attempting to push their policies on Inyo. We have reached a crossroads in the affairs of the Federation on a galactic scale. WAR is coming, and we'd best do our part to get ready or...everything that we love, and worked so hard to protect, will be gone."

Elizabeth nods understanding. Hugs me again

"Keep in touch, and Adam...remember...please remember...none of this was your fault."

I nod. She nods in return and I watch her leave. I then head to the table and pick up my glass and head to my port. McKingley Station's clamp support looms outside...I don't what to call them. I pick up my glass to take a sip and suddenly stop---like Captain Picard did...and then I set it back down and sit on my couch and cry. I am...Locutus of Borg. Resistance is Futile.
 
Chapter 39: Inquiry New
Paramount-SkyDance Own Star Trek. For Entertainment Purposes Only. Non-Profit.

The Enterprise is scheduled to remain at Earth Station McKingley for at least 12 weeks, however knowing Geordi as well I do now, he'll cut that in half since he has about a third of the Corp of Engineers here now. Starfleet has also ordered software upgrades for the main computer, which hasn't been upgraded since after the Bynar incident. The nightmares have been terrible...made worse for guilt over Christy as well. I can't believe she's gone. I have packed up all of her stuff and started to write to her parents...Captain Picard has already written his letter to them, but I feel compelled to talk to them myself.

Starfleet Command has ordered me to appear before an informal Board of Inquiry to answer for my actions as Locutus. They want to determine if they should proceed with official charges. Rehab has proceeded as one might expect. The first couple of days were difficult. It is still hard to explain but it was like what I'd imagined being possessed might feel like. I was not in control of my own body and for the week that I was abducted...the Borg had full use of everything. While I served as the physical host of Locutus, I wasn't in control of anything he said or did. My conscience was submerged. Buried beneath uncrackable layers of complex programming millions of years more advanced than anything from my time. It felt like being buried alive...

I have been assured that I will not be charged, that the Inquiry is exactly that---the Admiralty wants information from me. Counsellor Troi has to clear me before we head down to San Francisco and I pass her tests. Captain Picard also accompanies us, as does Doctor Crusher. I'm not worried. I expected this. Jean-Luc would have gone through something similar and it turned out to be a formality. We head into HQ and normally I would have expected Elizabeth to greet us, however Commander Shelby is already busy at work re-structuring Utopia Plantia's command structure to her liking. Putting her people in place and getting work started on the Fleet rebuild. Jaresh Inyo will not be present during this Inquiry as it is a Starfleet function, but I suspect someone from his office will be in the galley watching.

We enter into the Matthew Deckard Conference Room and there are 13 Admirals gathered for this procedure, and yes Admiral Satie is among them, so that will be joyous to deal with. The gallery is not as packed as I expected it to be. This is a classified affair so only top brass and those cleared are present. I freeze as Captain Picard goes over to greet Megan Hanson. J.P's wife.

"Adam?" Deanna asks

"I'm okay. I wasn't expecting to see her here."

"You don't have to---"

"Yes. Yes I do. I owe her."

I wait respectively as Jean-Luc says his piece to Megan, they've known each other for years. She's retired Starfleet after all. Picard notices me and introduces me and then walks off to give us space.

"Ma'am...I don't know what to say except---"

"You don't have to say anything. In fact I came today to tell you how J.P. felt about you, the mysterious stranger from another reality."

I react to that and she laughs. For some reason she reminds me of Maryl Streep.

"He talked about you all he could without saying anything about what you were working on, he was absolutely fascinated about you...and impressed."

"It was a honor to work with him...your husband meant more to me than I can express."

I take off his watch and am about to give it to her when she cups my hand and closes them. I grip the watch tightly.

"No. He gave that to you...it's yours now. Keep it. I came here today to support you...I knew what you meant to him. If you need anything after...even just to talk, my home is always open to you."

She hugs me, and I cry. Damn.

I am Locutus of Borg.

"Thank you."

I then head to the long table that is situated in the middle of the room. The room looks like the conference room or whatever from "The Drumhead" except much larger. Session begins...there is no truth panel...as this is not a hearing, court martial, or trial.

"Please state your name for the Inquiry."

"My name is Adam Christopher Young."

"What is your date of birth?"

"December 28, 1979."

"1979...the Board would like to remind those who are not familiar with Mr. Young, that he is a reality hopper, and this session is classified top secret. Those in the galley have been cleared by both Starfleet Security and Intelligence to attend."

"Why do you think you are here today Mr. Young?"

"It is my understanding that I am sitting before you to determine if I am to be declared responsible for actions taken while acting as the Borg Speaker, Locutus.

"That is correct. We may proceed."

Admiral Shanthi interrupts briefly.

"Before we begin I believe it is important to establish that this is not a trial. We are gathered today to determine if there SHOULD be a trial. Mr. Young should not be questioned as if he were already guilty. We are not a Cardassian Court."


"Mr. Young...we will begin by asking the obvious question. Why were you chosen by the Borg to act as their Speaker?"

"With respect Admiral Kingsley, I am unsure how to answer that without violating the Temporal Prime Directive."

That answer gets looks as all the Admirals exchange looks with each other. Even Jean-Luc and Deanna look at me.

"You have already violated the Temporal Prime Directive when you submitted your Threat Assessment report to Starfleet Intelligence on Stardate 42901.5. I think you can proceed...but with caution Mr. Young."

"Aye sir."

I exhale.

"While I was...in the process of assimilation...the first phase if you will, I had a conversation...with the Borg Queen who informed me--"

"A moment to clarify Mr. Young please. You mentioned the entity you call the Borg Queen in your report on the Collective...you actually conversed with her?"

"Yes...it wasn't---pleasant."

Locutus...

I visibly shiver. it is an uncontrolled response to hearing her in my head still.

"Continue please."

"The Borg Queen explained to me that...they were able to obtain information from their...future selves...and it was that faction of the Collective that possessed knowledge of me that they became aware of me...and then formulated a plan to use me as their Speaker."

"You have noted in your report that it wasn't supposed to be you...who WAS supposed to be Locutus of Borg, Mr. Young?" asks Admiral Satie


"Captain Picard was originally meant to be Locutus..."

"I see, instead for some reason...according to you---"future" Borg told their present time counterparts that you would be a more suitable choice. Why?" she presses with a nasty attitude that gets her a look from Shanthi

"I was chosen due to my specific...future knowledge...the Queen decided that it was a fair trade off. Possible knowledge of the future rather than Starfleet's immediate operations and command codes."

"So you have now given the Federation's greatest enemies several decades worth of future knowledge." Satie accuses

"Admiral Satie, I would recommend you soften your tone...this is not a trial." Shanthi warns

I am starting to feel anger swell in me.

"It should be." Satie says

"Norah...that is enough. I will not warn you again." Shanthi says

I shake my head.

"I apologize on behalf my overzealous colleague Mr. Young, but I press upon you to answer the question."

I gather myself. Control. Control. Control.

"Yes. Under the circumstances...I may have invertedly given the Borg Collective future knowledge...however there is no way of knowing what they took from me."

Deanna helped me prepare for this bullshit. Adam, calm.

There is an awkward silence in the room now. They weren't expecting this at all.

"How did the Borg of the future know about you?" asks the booming voice of one Admiral Leonard James Akaar

"That is a complex matter...however if I am compelled to explain, and the Temporal Prime Directive has been waived..."

They all nod, curious now.

"I impress upon all of you what I am about to reveal is classified beyond top secret and does not leave this room. Understood?"

All of them now are taken back. I just gave the fucking Admiralty an order. I can hear Deanna laugh in my head. Careful Adam.

"Does this include members of the viewing gallery...of which there are civilians present?"

"I would recommend the gallery be cleared for the next few minutes. They can resume their seats when I'm finished."

We wait until the gallery leaves and I continue.

"In the future...the year 2401 to be precise...a faction of the Borg Collective splinters off from the main group...and is controlled by a human cybernetics expert named Doctor Agnes Jurati. She becomes the Borg Queen of that faction in an attempt to harmonize the Collective, something that isn't possible right now...but becomes so then."

"How does this Dr. Jurati become aware of you?" That from Admrial Sarah Cooper of Starfleet Intelligence

I part my hands.

"The logical answer is that I know Agnes from the show...there is a sequel to um...the show that you're all in. The other possibility is that my future self comes into contact with her. I know Doctor Jurati...she wouldn't purposefully have given the present time Collective critical security information."

"On the contrary Mr. Young, you do not know Doctor Jurati at all. You are aware of her character from the show. You have not met her yet, so are not in any position to assure of us anything with regards to her character." Cooper counters

"I concede the point."

"I think we can move forward from this line of questioning. There is no possible way that we can verify what was extracted from Mr. Young's mind while he was in the Collective. No doubt he would have done everything possible to protect that information from being extracted."

"Did you, Mr. Young?" asks another Admiral

"Did I what?"

"Do everything physically and mentally possible to protect critical information being extracted?"

I sigh and lean back in my chair. I reach up and rub my forehead, then resume my posture and answer the question.

"I did everything possible to protect all of you---none of you can possibly understand what I went through, nor do I expect you to..."

I was about to bring up the virus but I stop myself.

The questioning continues for another hour. More bullshit questions along with typical psychological ones. Some of them question my mental capabilities and I don't blame them at all. In the end the Board votes 8 to 5 in my favor. There will be no charges. I am not to blame for actions committed by Locutus. The Admiralty also pledges the full resources of the Fleet to aide in my recovery. They all agree that I have been through...a traumatic event unlike anything in human history...and have their full support. Not to mention my contributions in helping the Fleet in the first place. It is a generous offer.

We linger behind a bit...Satie bolted out of here with her assistant the moment this thing ended, I'm not looking forward to seeing her later on this year at all. Bitch. Adam Calm.

Admiral Nechayev approaches me. I have always liked her despite her being portrayed as a counter point to Picard.

"Admiral Nechayev...this is a surprise. What can I do for you?"

"I believe that the two of us have common belief systems in certain areas that are disagreeable to our colleagues. I have read all of your reports, and been following your training process...it has been impressive. When you are ready to discuss...matters...feel free to contact me."

"Aye sir."

Captain Picard approaches next.

"That went well under the circumstances. Are you ready to return to the ship?"

"Almost. There's something else I have to do on Earth before I go back. You and Deanna go ahead of me. I'll be back when I've completed my task."

I head to the main transporter hub in San Francisco and tell the Lieutenant at the main console to input the coordinates and step onto the huge platform.

"Energize."

I am then rematerialized outside of a brownstone complex in lower Manhattan in New York City. I inhale and then exhale as I prepare to walk up the small flight of stairs and knock on the door.

An older woman answers who resembles Christy...but with grayish blonde hair.

"Oh! It's you!" she recognizes me immediately


"Mrs. Henshaw, you might recognize me, but you don't know me. I am here to personally convey my...m-...my condolences on the loss...of---

"Naomi who is it?" I hear a male voice

"Neil...we have a visitor you should come greet. Come on inside...Adam."

I start crying.
 
Chapter 40: Family New
Paramount-SkyDance Own Star Trek. For Entertainment Purposes Only. Non-Profit.

Author's Note: Christy Henshaw's parents are named after her actress's parents names, Neil and Naomi. J.P.'s wife's name is totally made up and I based her model on Meryl Streep. Normally would just use the actors real life spouses, but felt like doing something totally different this time around. This is a long chapter again hope you enjoy.

I spend a couple of days with Christy's parents. She was an only child so her parents dotted on her and put all their resources into helping full fill her dream of becoming a Starfleet officer. Like most kids, she dreamt about being a starship captain, but found her calling in high school when she wanted to be an engineer. She was great at fixing things, and computers. I arrange to have her belongings beamed down from the Enterprise. They are thankful, and extremely accommodating. They let me know that I have a home to go to if I need it, they remind me of Elizabeth's parents. Being in this reality and time is still jarring compared to ours...everyone is literally so nice.

I return to the Enterprise and Captain Picard is preparing to leave for his trip to the Picard vineyards. We have a spot of tea in his ready room.

"Did you accomplish everything you had to on Earth?"

"Yes, I visited Christy's parents."

"Deanna suspected that is where you had gone off to. How did that go?"

"Better than I expected, especially after...Wolf 359. People here continue to surprise me."

He nods, smiling.

"I think you will find, Adam, as you continue your journey in this reality, that a great many things are different from what you are used to. We have evolved from the mistakes of the past. Contrary to belief though, we're not perfect...and still have a long way to go but we've improved."

"I'm starting to see that now. It's still jarring though."

"You looking forward to seeing Robert and Maire?" I ask him

"Yes I am. At first I was...hesitant. You are no doubt aware of my history with Robert. Our...heat...as you might say, has kept us from having a relationship with each other that we probably should be enjoying with, and I'm not sure that it will ever change."

"It will. In time. I feel a little bad..."

"Why?"

"What happens to you.....helps fester a change between the two of you. Softens the anger and jealousy in Robert. I've robbed you of that."

Picard shakes his head and puts down his cup.

"Adam...I can not imagine what you have just been through, but you never have to apologize for anything to do with what happened. You saved me from that experience...and I can not be more thankful, I don't know how to thank you--even though it wasn't your choice. I know you would have tried to save me from Locutus no matter what."

"Do you know what the Queen said to me?"

"What?"

"She accused me of WANTING to become Locutus, that this was some kind of low key ego thing...that I wanted to be the star of my own story..."

"What do you think of that? Did you?"

"I think that if I wanted to consciously experience being Locutus...then I have more issues than I realize, or that Deanna has been able to diagnose...but deep down inside...I stopped fighting them Jean-Luc. I-tried. The anti-virus helped to a degree...but it-it--was so so hard....I'm sorry...I didn't mean to..."

"No, it's okay. Let it out. I am no counsellor, but suppressing what happened, everything that happened, is not a good thing. "

I compose myself again. I am Locutus of Borg.

"I think a part of me DID want to become Locutus, but wasn't prepared to handle the full consequences of what that meant. Now I have live with what happened for the rest of my life. As you did."

"I have no doubt that you will...your will to continue through crisis after crisis is impressive."

"Thank you sir."

"Jean-Luc...when we're off duty."

I have finally earned his respect and trust now.

"Be patient with Robert. I think you'll be surprised at the results. He also loves you, very much. Just in his own aloof way."

He nods and we finish up our conversation.

Captain Picard departs for LaBarre---I am invited to go but I politely decline. As much as I'd like to see the famed Picard Family Vineyard, and that Maire would make me feel welcomed, that is not my business. Robert and Jean-Luc need to find a way to resolve their old differences...and Jean-Luc needs time to bond with Rene. I hope that I can save them from the fire, when that time comes in a few years.

My counselling sessions already have been productive but I have...a long way to go before I'm declared anywhere near "Normal". The nightmares are intense. Unlike any I have experienced before. My sub conscience has taken to using pulp culture references to help me cope. My brain knows that I am...damaged. Deanna and Will are going to Alaska for a few weeks. I am of course invited, but declined. I need proper time to mourn Christy...and to continue to process what...what happened. Locutus...I still can't believe they picked me because they plucked that information from Agnes's faction. Damn future me. If future me had that knowledge, he could have prevented this from occurring, but perhaps he had no choice. I don't know. I am in no position to judge anyone right now, least myself.

Geordi and Data are working on the repairs to the ship. Worf's parents are on board...but I'm in no mood to socialize with anyone despite Deanna suggesting that I do just that. Guinan has reached out to me, but I just don't feel like talking to anyone, about this right now. Beverly has given Wes the message from Jack and he's dealing with that right now. It might be a long down time period, but everyone is dealing with stuff. I am for the first time since I arrived in this reality---alone.

Lieutenant Morani arrives. Again the spitting image of Nyla Harper from "The Rookie". This universe is messing around with me.

"Lieutenant, I've been neglect in my training duties. I apologize." I offer and she frowns as she makes her way to my couch.

"I came to see how you've been doing, but your assumption that I am here for business reasons, perhaps tells me what I need to know." she replies

"I..." I find it hard to get words out now. A rarity for me and usually and indication that something is wrong.

"I can't presume to understand what you are going for. I came by to tell you though that you don't have to go through this recovery alone, Mr. Young. You have friends on this ship now. They---we have come to care about you." she offers

"Thank you sir. I'll keep that in mind." I'm not in the mood to make small talk, she recognizes this and gets up and starts to head for the door

"When you're ready to come back to work...I'll be around." she says and I just nod watching her leave and then head back to the couch where I sigh


I head to the huge gym on Deck 12 and do something that I have never really been able to do before...as I've been itching to testing my new foot out...I start running around the track. I imagine myself as Ivan Drago as I make my way around the track...and the feeling is absolutely amazing and indescribable. My foot is normal. There's no pain whatsoever...rehab has gone well so far....exceedingly well as Dr. Selar has been overseeing it. Selar joins me after her shift is done, and we run together. Until I am actually tired.

"You need to find something to do Adam. You are getting stir crazy remaining on the ship." Selar suggests

"What do you suggest?"

"I am not Counsellor Troi, nor any of her staff. However it behooves me that it may do you some benefit to go on...vacation."

"That thought had crossed my mind. I don't suppose you'd entertain accompanying me?"

"Unfortunately, I am required elsewhere. I am leaving the Enterprise shortly myself." she says surprising me

It is my turn to arch my eyebrow.

"Oh? Where?"

"After what has just happened, it dawned on me that I should visit my parents on Vulcan."

Family and friends have suddenly become important to everyone after what just happened.

"That's a pretty big decision...are you ready to see them?"

"Yes. If this were under normal circumstances....I would simply carry on as before, but..."

"Everyone has been affected by the Borg invasion. It has reminded everyone what's really important."

"Yes. Family and friends."

I am reminded once again that mine are not here...

"Thank you Selar."

"I wish you...good journey and will see you when you return."

I nod. It's time to put in a call to Arandis.

I let Data know that I am going to Risa for two weeks. Doctor Crusher medically clears me as does Counsellor Talla who is acting Counsellor in Deanna's absence. I then arrange for transport (I am not able to fly a shuttle on my own yet) and head to Risa. My first real trip anywhere...alone.

I arrive on Risa and am greeted by Arandis.

"I am happy to see you my friend. My deepest condolences on the loss of your partner."

"Thank you Arandis, it's good to see you again." I reply

She sees my thermal bandage on the right side of my face and reaches up to caress it. I nearly flinch. Locutus...Locutus...Locutus...

"I saw what they did to you on the newsnets. I am so so sorry. Are you okay?"

"No...or else I wouldn't be here. I need time. The others are all on shore leave or busy with the ship's repairs. I am still dealing with...what happened, and I'm still mourning. I'm here for two weeks, but in theory I can stay however long I want to."

"I have cordoned off an entire wing for you. Off the cliff face like last time but not the same suite you and Christy had. I didn't think you would want to stay in that again. As before, you'll have it to yourself. Personal chef and only requested staff. I'm only a comm signal away."


"Thank you Arandis...you free for dinner tonight?"

"I am, however I don't think that is a good idea. You're in morning luv, you need time."

"I need a friend."

She sighs.

"Okay. I'll come when my shift is over. No expectations though."

"I have none when it comes to Risa. I let it surprise me."

"It is good to see you...go rest. I'll see you later."

I then head towards the building and enter my room. My bag is already sitting next to the bed. I allow myself to fall into the king size and quickly fall asleep.

Darkness. I hear an intense, rhythmic drum beat that increases in intensity with every heart beat. I realize that it is my heart that is in perfect sync with the drumming. It is coming from somewhere...else. I open my eyes to reveal that I am inside what appears to be a coffin. Wearing Spider-Man's Black Suit. I start pounding on it. Screaming to let me out.

"I am Locutus of Borg. Resistance is Futile."

I pound on the coffin, making louder and louder sounds. SPYDER SPYDER BURNING BRIGHT IN THE FORESTS OF THE NIGHT WHAT IMMORTAL HAND OR EYE COULD FRAME THY FEARFUL SYMMETRY!!!! I pound as hard as I can...Kraven You bastard. No. Not Kraven. The Borg.

"Target warp engines and main bridge. Open fire."

Finally I manage to break the coffin top...only to be horrified as thousands...millions of tiny SPIDERS begin to fall into the coffin covering me. The metaphor should be evident.

"Remember...Us..."

I SCREAM.

Drenched in sweat I catch my breath as I realize I am in my suite on Risa...Arandis is next to me.

"The same nightmare?"

I nod, and she reaches up and rubs my back. The Borg have taken things that I love and perverted them into nightmares. Or at least my brain has...trying to deal with the trauma. I've been in pain before. A lot of pain...and I mean a lot of pain, but I've never been traumatized before. I am having difficulty handling this.

"The coffin and the spiders...Kraven shooting me. My mind is trying to protect me but using things I like to deal with what happened...it's...strange."

"I had no idea you were a psych major?" she jokes gently

"Heh. I've had a good teacher...but it's obvious to me what my mind is trying to do. It's attempting to protect me...from the damage they did."

I reach over to the side table and gulp down the glass of water and put it back down.

"I'm going for a swim."

"It's 3 in the morning, luv."

"Exactly. No one will be there to bother me."

"You're not taking your trunks? Something IS wrong with you..."

I face her and she holds me.

"I am not myself at all. I don't know when I will be again."

"I'll come with you."

"I was hoping you would."

Together, hand in hand we sprint down towards the beach in the middle of the night.

The two weeks passes by with Arandis smoothly...and I'm grateful for her company. We get to know each other really well over the course of time and she become a genuine friend. I can understand why she has had so many...confidant lover's...the nightmares subside but I know they will be with me for the rest of my life. I just have to figure out a way to deal with this. Agnes...Jurarti. I didn't foresee that happening at all. My future self must come into contact with her and the others during the period of "Picard"...it also means that certain events still happen leading up to that point. I rub my temples. Quantum mechanics, and time travel hurt my brain. For some reason Risa makes me think of Curzon...I should try to make a call before it's too late.

Our final night together I cook for Arandis for the first time. Nothing fancy. I just make Spaghetti and Meatballs, with a few herbs tossed in for color, and homemade garlic bread that I prepared earlier in the day. We have red wine.

"I wanted to thank you for this...you have been..."

"You don't need to thank me Adam. You know our planet's motto, this is part of my job." We live to serve.

"No it isn't. This is YOU. You wouldn't have so many lovers if it was...part of your job. You can't fool me Arandis, and I know I'm not just some random person either...so you can't use that on me either."

She smiles.

"No I genuinely have come to like you...it's difficult. You are charming. Kind. Intelligent. Emotional. Not afraid to speak your mind or how you are feeling. A conversationalist. Well read in a variety of topics, on top of the news of the day.."

"Thank you. You're absolutely amazing yourself."

"May I ask you a personal question?" she asks

"Of course. "

I think I made this sauce a little too rich...even for my liking. Everything else is perfect. Taste has been...slightly different since the Assimilation. Beverly assures me though that it will come back after a few weeks.

"There are literally hundreds of single women on this planet...most of them are there to literally pleasure you...why seek me out?"

"The honest answer...is that I knew you from the show. I knew of your relationship with Dax...but I didn't know that you would, help me...or..."

"Fall in love with you?" she asks

"Nor I you. I had no preconceptions or intentions over a romantic relationship with you Arandis. I sought you out though because you are literally the one person on this planet I knew I could trust implicitly."

"It is my honor to have that trust"

"And mine to have yours."

"This is delicious...will I see you again?"

"I'm not sure, but something tells me that tonight won't be our final time seeing each other."

We continue our conversation well after dinner and in the bed...

Instead of going back to the Enterprise after my two weeks is up, I contact the ship and inform Data that I am requesting extended leave. Data informs me that Starfleet Command has granted me as long as I want to recover, so I thank him and tell him I won't be gone that long. Data wishes me well and looks forward to my return to the ship when I am ready.

I stay with Arandis for another week, before saying good journey to her. I thank her again for her company, and she wishes me well on my recovery. I head back to Earth where I decide to really explore the planet for the first time...well...ever. I've done limited travelling in my life so to be in the Star Trek Earth...with no responsibilities...well that's an opportunity I can't pass up. I do a Young World Tour of sorts and go to Japan, Rome, China, India. I visit the place of my birth for the first time since I have been here....Northallterton, England and am shocked to find it transformed into a sprawling city called Allerton. Since this is in a fictional reality, there are no traces of my family at all, or my friends. I conduct research and find nothing which both saddens and satisfies me at the same time. There is a bakery though in Allerton that is also in OUR reality that I visit and I get my favorite Egg Custard Tarts---also known as Portuguese Custard Tarts. I am a big fan of all the variations but have a bias towards the English version for obvious reasons.

My thermal bandages are no longer needed...it is funny...in our reality I would have physical scars from what happened, but thanks to 24th Century medical technology....there's not a physical trace of anything that happened to me. The scars instead are surfaced in my brain. I still will need massive counselling sessions when I get back...but the immediate trauma is starting to pass. I still can't believe that I was Locutus of Borg. I led the attack of Wolf 359. I...killed my girlfriend. I don't care what the others say, or what the medical evidence was, I know what happened. I WAS THERE, and yes I can also make the argument that I wasn't responsible since I had no control over my bodily functions, but I KNOW what happened. No one else can understand what happened to me, and no one will until Seven of Nine.

I travel through the rest of January and towards the end of February. If I was motivated enough, I would have taken this to the stars, but I felt like Earth was something I needed to see first. I report back to Captain Picard who returned from LaBarre after two weeks there with his family, shortly after the incident with the warp bubble at Starbase 133.

"How are you doing Adam?"

"Better. Not great but better...getting to see the planet was helpful. I should have done this while I was in San Francisco but had no real desire to. It's funny what trauma does to you."

"Indeed, and Risa treated you well?"

I smile

"Very well. I caught up with an old friend of sorts...and while I'm still not over what happened to Christy...I am getting into a better place."

"That's good to hear. Are you ready to resume your training or do you need more time?"

"I think Deanna still needs to clear me, but I am ready to resume both my training and my position on this ship"

"Excellent, I will speak to Counsellor Troi about making an appointment with you to clear you mentally. Welcome back Mr. Young."

Picard reaches over and shakes my hand.

"Thank you sir, it's good to be back."
 
Chapter 41: Ishara New
Paramount and SkyDance Own Star Trek. For Entertainment Purposes Only. Non-Profit.

It is good being back aboard the Enterprise. I was gone so long that I missed Data discovering Dr. Soong, and having his chip stolen by Lore. I also missed the return of the Traveler and the Warp Bubble Incident with Beverly, as well as the incident with Jonah. It has started to feel like...home now. A distress signal is picked up from a freighter called Arcos...in orbit around Turkana IV...but by the time we reach it the ship is about to explode discover that the crew have been kidnapped by Hayne, the leader of the Coalition. Learning of Tasha's service aboard the Enterprise, Hayne arranges to have her sister...Ishara act as his liaison to the Federation. Ishara is taken aboard the Enterprise and Beverly does run a series of tests. I am brought to Ishara as well to confirm her identity as Captain Picard and Worf bring me to her. I stare at her...she's breathtaking, but also makes me remember Tasha...the alternate Tasha from "Yesterday's Enterprise".

"Ishara Yar, this our Special Civilian Advisor, Adam Christopher Young."

"It's a pleasure to meet you. I never knew your sister, but I can confirm that you are her sister."

Ishara looks at me curiously.

"How could you possibly know that?"

"If you remain aboard the Enterprise, I can explain it over dinner."

Riker gives me that huge buggy eyed grin of his when he's astonished and impressed. My confidence has increased as well since being Locutus, as well as the security training.

Ishara turns to the others and reiterates who she is, and agrees to undergo the DNA testing. I have caught her curiosity. She didn't expect anything like me. No one ever does ;)

Captain Picard meets with me in private. He still suspects...and he's correct to.

"What is her true purpose on the ship?" I tug my shirt and sigh.

"Hayne wants Starfleet technology as he proposed to Commander Riker. He thinks by having it, he will end the war, and perhaps he's right...he won't settle for anything less, and he's not interested in peace. Ishara is...a pawn in this. She has no choice but to obey him due to the proximity device. Removing it is an option...but she still has been conditioned by over a decade of warfare and..."

"And?"

"She hates that Tasha left...she's all twisted up inside." I finish explaining

"Is there any way you can persuade her otherwise?"

"I'm not sure sir. I can try...Data...Data tries the hardest in the episode--but--" Picard nods sadly.

"Do your best Adam...but gently...I will support whatever course of action you deem necessary with her."

"Aye sir."

It is strange being around Ishara and Data. I watch them...again...if you didn't know better that Data was an android with no feelings...you couldn't tell because she damn near is playing him like a fiddle and it makes my heart break. I ask Ishara if she wants to join me for dinner, she thinks I'm asking her out but I assure her that I am not, just would like to chat. I'm sure it is been a while since she's had a home cooked meal. She accepts and I make a simple spaghetti with fresh bread that I bake. Red wine. Ishara comes promptly at 19:00 I answer and she's wearing that super tight blue...jump suit. Uh--I'm gonna need a shower after this. She sits and light music is playing in the back ground.

"What is that? I don't recognize it at all."

"It's Haydn, an Austrian composer from the 19th century on Earth. He's one of my favourite composers."

"What's your favourite piece of his?" she asks taken me off guard


"Uh...it's actually what is playing right now. Symphony #51 in B Major, third movement. The horns. Haydn was a master of using french horns in his music. This is...not my all time favourite piece though. I always forget what it is called, but this is my favourite concerto of his."

"Why did you ask me here?" she asks

"I know why you're really on the ship, and I know you're still in communication with Hayne...it's okay, you're not in trouble yet, this isn't a sting or anything. I'm not here to expose you--I have a proposal for you, it's genuine...but it depends on you wanting to make a change."

"This is really good." she says of the Spaghetti.

"Thank you...it's a combination of both my Mom and her partner's recipe's. Normally I'd just have the meat sauce when making it for myself, but when I have guests over I use Maire's."

"What is your proposal?" she asks

"Leave Turkana IV. We can remove the proximity device, you don't have to do what you're doing. I know you...have negative feelings for your sister, but you COULD be what Tasha was."

"What do you mean?"

"Leave, come apply to the Academy. I know you have formidable skills, I know you're intelligent, have the ability to adapt to almost any situation, and at Starfleet Academy you would be able to put those to good use, and you'd be free. " I plead with her

"I...I don't know..."

"Ishara...you owe nothing to Hayne. He's a monster...a beast at best. I have read...some of the awful things that happen on the surface, I know something of what you've gone through, I can't imagine what all this must feel like, day after day, I'm offering you the chance to be free of it. Free of him, free of everything. You don't even have to go to the Academy, that was just a suggestion. You could do whatever you want to do...but you'd be free. All you have to do is stop what you're doing, it isn't worth it."

I see her internal struggle inside and I feel for her. I am not sure she believes me but I am hoping that I get through to her better nature.

"And Hayne?"

"All we want are the hostages. I promise you that, after that we will leave. We can't give him any weapons. Captain Picard will refuse that."

"They'll come for me..."

"We'll protect you. You'll be granted asylum if you want it. "

"Hayne will kill the hostages." Ishara says with conviction.

"No he won't....Ishara...I know you have no reason to trust me, I understand that, but I'm asking you now...to trust me. Just once."

She reluctantly nods. We finish up our dinner and head to sickbay where Beverly removes the device from her chest. Ishara remains on the ship while Commander Riker leads the away team and gets the hostages back, he kills Hayne in a phaser exchange this time, no Coalition ambush ready---Hayne was ambushed this time.

Ishara waits with me in my quarters impatiently. Riker and Data enter.

"It's over. We were able to successfully retrieve the hostages with zero causalities on our end."

Unlike in the episode.

"Hayne?" she asks

"Hayne is dead." Data says. I watch as the piano lifts from her back. Riker turns to me.

"Your coordinates were perfect. We had almost no resistance, they didn't expect us at all." I nod looking at Ishara

"Yes. I'm glad that we got the Arco crew back."

"Captain Picard has granted Ishara asylum, with her cooperation, there should be no issues."

"Thank you sirs." I say and they both leave.

"Are you okay?" I ask her as she looks out the port hole into space. Her planet twirling in the background below.

"No. I never thought this could actually happen...I thought..."

"You thought you were trapped. I gave you an out."

"I don't know how to ever repay you." I shrug that off

"You don't have to repay me...just go do something. Whatever it is you want to, for the first time in your life, you're free."

"Thank you...I think I'd like to talk to the Captain about...the Academy."

I nod and we hold hands as we head to go to Captain Picard's ready room.
 
Chapter 42: K'hleyr New
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Ambassador K'hleyr requests an emergency meeting with Captain Picard on an urgent matter as the Enterprise rendezvous' with a Klingon Vor'cha class battlecruiser . Alexander is brought on board for the first time. I am called to attend the briefing and am introduced to K'hleyr who is aware of me but isn't comfortable with me being there...but Captain Picard assures her that I am a necessity. She of course is here to brief the Captain on the internal power struggle within the Klingon Empire. The civil war that I warned about last year is coming to a head soon---K'empec is dying...both House Duras and Gowron---are vying for control of the Empire.

"The Chancellor has been poisoned...most likely by the petaQ Duras. Captain, this is what I warned you about last year." I state

"How could you possibly know that?" she asks with that sarcastic I don't give a shit tone she has

"I know things...a whole lot of things, and Ambassador, your life is in grave danger." Picard stirs at this as does Worf who bristles for the first time across the table.

"Mr. Young..." the Captain warns

"Sorry sir, but we need to get to Qo'nos as soon as possible."

"I agree with your...consultant. Hmmm. You are intriguing Mr. Young." she replies with that smirk on her face.

Damn you Worf, it's tempting.

"I'm more intriguing than you think Ambassador." I swear I hear a small rolling growl coming from Worf.

Deanna tells me to simmer down in my head.

"The Chancellor is awaiting you on the ship Captain Picard." K'hleyr says

We're all dismissed and Captain Picard meets with the Chancellor of the Klingon High Council, and indeed---the Old Man is in the middle of dying, he confirms my claim that he's been poisoned and he is appointing Picard as the Arbiter of Succession...to determine who will succeed him as the ruler of the Klingon Empire. Picard says that he can't get involved, but the Chancellor INSISTS, he is the only person he trusts to make sure that it is done properly. He also admits to covering up Duras's treason, Picard agrees.

Picard requests that I accompany him as well as with K'hleyr down to the planet to oversee the succession rites, he explains to her that no one knows this proceeding other than her more than I do...and as she'll soon find out I am required.

"Did you tell Worf about Alexander?" I whisper and she is about to nearly deck me

"Who ARE you?" she asks as we enter the great hall

"Later, I promise you, when this is over, we'll talk." I reply

She nods and gives me that look. Oh Worf, please don't be a moron this time around. I'm giving you a second chance, don't make me regret it.

Gowron and Duras arrive for the proceedings. It largely takes place as it does in the episode proper, Worf looking like he is going to kill Duras right then and there, which maybe wouldn't be a bad thing, but impressively, he holds back. They both want to know what I am doing there...and I wave at both of them like Vir does Mr. Morden after he sees his head on a pike. Captain Picard says that I am present because he has requested my presence and I am vital to making sure the proceedings....A BOMB goes off as everyone scatters, I fall back immediately to the floor and look around. I forgot about this part..damn it. Morani would be give me a fail here for not minding my surroundings. Picard and K'hlyer claim an archaic rite to prolong the ceremony so that an investigation can commence.

"It's Romulan."

I say. as Data, Worf, and Geordi attempt to confirm

"One of the Duras'...guards had it..." Worf rumbles.

"Yes, that makes sense. Sir...the Romulans are in league with House Duras."

Where is K'hleyr?

"Worf...where is the Ambassador?" I ask

"Damn it. Computer where is the location of Ambassador K'hleyr?"

"Ambassador K'hleyr is currently in her quarters."

"Computer...is Duras on board the ship?"

"Yes."

Worf and I look at each other.

"Request emergency transport from this location to K'hleyr's quarters...now!" I tap my comm badge

"Security teams to the Ambassador's quarters! " bellows Worf.


Worf and I transport just in time to see K'hleyr counter Duras's blow...Worf growls as he grabs the other Klingon warrior and hurls him across the room. I tend to K'hleyr.

"Are you all right?"

"A few superficial wounds...what is going on?" she asks

"I told you your life was in danger, damn it. I was supposed to prevent this..."

"Prevent what?"

"Worf don't kill him!" I scream as i catch Worf's arms raise the Bat'leth

The two Klingons smash the quarters and batter each other when security arrives along with Commander Riker. Worf though doesn't hesitate and kills him through the kills with the Bat'leth. I sigh and slump down next to K'hleyr. It's over for now.

Gowron becomes Chancellor of the Klingon High Council and promises to restore Worf's honor. He will now have to attempt to sway support to his side to avoid the coming Civil War. Captain Picard tells him of the suspected involvement of the Romulan's, but Gowron dismisses it, they are no threat now that Duras is dead, thanks to Worf. A huge mistake. On the Enterprise, I am in sickbay to visit K'hyler who has little Alexander at her bedside as well as Worf---already completed the marriage ritual.

"Congratulations to you both." I say

"You owe me an explanation." K'hleyr says and I nod as Worf smiles, a rarity.

"I am from another reality where this is a show...I don't know why or how I got here...but because of that...knowledge..."

"You're able to prevent things...including saving my life."

"Yes."

"Thank you...why?"

"Because no child should be without their parents. Especially this one." Worf turns to face me

"Thank you Adam." I nod

"I would like you to meet my, our son. His name is Alexander." Worf says practically beaming

I kneel down to greet him.

"Hello Alexander. It is a honor to meet you."

"Hello. Do you know my parents?"

"It is my honor to know your parents, yes."

"My mother tells me that you saved her, and helped my father."

"Yes, that's right."

"Are you our protector?" he asks

I look up at Worf who laughs and the Ambassador shrugs and pulls Alexander to her.

"I can be if that is what you want." I reply trying not to get emotional

"It is."

"Then I shall be your protector as well, Alexander. Q'apla!"

He smiles

I nod to the two of them then and leave the new family be, and ponder future things...
 
Chapter 43: The Serial Life New
Paramount and SkyDance Own Star Trek. For Entertainment Purposes Only. Non-Profit.

Worf is disciplined for killing Duras, a formal reprimand in his duty record, blemishing up until now what has been a superb record. K'hleyr and Worf undergo the Klingon Marriage Ritual and a reception is held for them in Ten Forward. This ordeal made Worf realize what he was missing out on this whole time, and K'hleyr's brush with death made her realize her true feelings for the big oaf. It is agreed for the time being, due to the state the Empire is in, Alexander will remain on the Enterprise where he will be safe. K'hleyr still will remain a target due to her role. Deanna and I spend a lot of time with Alexander, as Worf slowly learns to become a father.

Wesley left after the events of Ménage e Troi" as there was no need for his rescue solution. Beverly has been adjusting to him being gone, and increased her dating again. Good for her, she deserves to have some fun. Wesley is missed though. My decision to choose security so far has been demanding, but also rewarding. It is really the best of everything as you learn various different facets of ship operations. Morani is still tough on me and I have the bruises now to prove if as the beginning of spring starts. Morani has started teaching me hand to hand combat. First in the holodeck, one on one, and then increased to include multiple take downs. She's been pushing just how much the nanites have changed my body. It seems so far that I'm now an above average human being in terms of strength, speed, and stamina. I feel healthier than at any previous point in my entire life before, and it has been strange having the full use of my foot again. It feels heavy, in a good way. Before it felt light, flimsy almost due to having only a third bone and muscular structure left after all the surgeries back home. Now though I feel the full extend of it like my left foot. I'm down to 200 pounds now. Since I've been in the Star Trek universe I have lost 75 pounds, and gained muscle, and dropped my body fat to about 30 percent. I feel like a super being, but I'm still just me. Beverly and Data monitor the nanites, both fascinated by the promise of these nanites, have been studying their programming to make fully sure they don't regress into their former Borg programming. They've been sending their data to Dr. Stubbs on Kavis Alpha IV and the team there. It could be that I end up in journals due to this!!

My counselling sessions with Deanna progress to some degree. I still have terrible nightmares. Deanna seems satisfied that I am...dealing with what happened, but the fact of the matter is that I'm still submerging my feelings over what happened to Christy, and the others that were killed. Consequences for actions. I miss Christy...and feel a void that I didn't think I would have. The loss is overwhelming at times combined with the mental damage of the assimilation. Morani has tried to distract me with training. In addition to combat, we've been using the holodeck to go through various case scenarios. My very own personal "Midsomers Murders" if you will. This is a work in progress as my deduction skills are still learning.

"Future Imperfect" is butterflied as Riker and I beam down to the planet and convince Borash that he doesn't have to be alone any more. Will takes him under his wing and makes good on his promise to look after him as eventually Deanna and Will adopt him. Ensign Gleeson is promoted to full Lieutenant and is assigned to Beta Shift Helm Officer. Diana Giddings is transferred from Engineering to Medical. Sonya and Geordi become engaged.

Captain Picard calls me to his ready room with an unexpected request.

"As you may know, I am leaving shortly to mediate a miners dispute on Pentarus V. I've been reviewing your progress, and both Lieutenant Worf and Morani think you're ready to accompany me on this mission." he says as he places a PADD down

I try to keep my mouth closed. It's not often you can surprise me.

"Sir...I'm flattered but--"

"This isn't a request, Mr. Young. This is an order." Picard says

"Sir I---"

"I am aware of your ongoing struggles as well. Counsellor Troi has kept me appraised of your current conditioned. All three officers have assured me you are capable of seeing this through. Now I suggest you prepare yourself. We leave in a few hours."

"Aye sir."

Holy shit. My first real mission. Morani and Deanna sit on my couch and listen to my futile objections over this latest development.

"Are you questioning my ability to assess you, Mr. Young?" Maia asks

"No, sir." I say suddenly snapping to attention

"Because I would hate for that to be the case, I do not file unreliable reports on my trainees. You have done exceptionally well under the circumstances. In fact, you've surpassed what little expectations I had on you to be quite frank about it." she says

"Thank you sir." I reply

"What is it that is really bothering you about this Adam?" Deanna presses---she knows I'm holding something back

"Nothing. I just don't feel like I'm ready to do this yet. This is--"

"A rookie's job. Yes. IF you actually want to do what you say you do, and become an officer one day, then Captain Picard naturally wants to see what you're capable of first hand. This is a routine escort mission. A vacation. Most first Cadets would JUMP at this chance. You're on the verge of having a panic attack. Something must happen..." Morani says

She's gotten to know me pretty well in the weeks since we first began my training.

"It's nothing. You're right. I should be over the moon...errr...that he picked me over say Sariel." Ensign Rager would've likely been his first choice


"That's the spirit. Things will be fine. You'll do well."

They both leave as I spend the time studying the landscape of Lambda Paz, the desert planet Dirgo's shuttle crash lands on. It's not actually a planet, but a moon of Pentarus...the closest body on their original course. I put down the PADD and leave my quarters and head for the shuttle bay. Geordi is there with a small engineering team going over the shuttle. He spots me with a smile.

"Mr. Young. You're a little too early, my team are still going over Captain Dirgo's shuttle."

"Have you examined Captain Dirgo's maneuvering thrusters yet?" I ask and Geordi has a curious look on his face

"Actually, we just finished running full diagnostics on his propulsion system a hour ago. Aside from an unusual configuration...everything checks out fine. Why?" he asks

"The port thruster module suddenly explodes while the Captain is on route to the mining dispute. This causes damage to the thruster quad, and begins..."

"A chain reaction that results in systems failure and they must've crashed landed somewhere nearby...I'm guessing Lambda Paz...which is the closest moon. Why didn't you come to us sooner with this Mr. Young?" Geordi asks

"I'm not sure sir. But this shuttle is unsafe for transport. Dirgo will take offense to this, but we can't use his shuttle for this mission." I reply

LaForge taps his comm badge.

"LaForge to Captain Picard. We've come across an issue with the Nanebek." Geordi reports

"What kind of issue, Mr. LaForge? We're scheduled to depart the Enterprise in less than 3 hours." Picard replies

"Mr. Young is here and has pointed out that the shuttle experiences a catastrophic propulsion systems failure after the port thruster module explodes. Now we've just completed full diagnostics on the propulsion systems and aside from an unusual maneuvering thruster configuration, we found nothing wrong with them. However it is Mr. Young saying this..."

"Captain Dirgo will not be pleased to hear this. Mr. Young what is your recommendation as an alternative? We don't have time to request another pilot, and Dirgo will not be trained with our systems." Picard has a slightly annoyed tone in his voice. He knows I Should have come out with this when I first reported to his ready room.

"I suggest that we use one of our shuttles sir, and that a qualified pilot be chosen to accompany you. Captain Dirgo can still be compensated, this isn't his fault, as far as I know." I reply

"Very well. However you will still be accompanying us on this mission Mr. Young. You will shadow Ensign Rager." he replies

"Aye sir."

"Oh...and I'll leave it to you to explain this to the good Captain." Picard finishes

"Aye sir."

"Picard out."


Geordi nods at me and gives orders for his people to clear out of the shuttle bay.

"Good luck with Dirgo." Geordi offers as I sigh

Dirgo was not happy.

"This is outrageous! I have over 10,000 star pilot hours! Never have had a complaint!" Dirgo exclaims

"Captain Dirgo, I'm aware of your reputation as a pilot, that's not in question. The condition of your ship is though. It is unsafe for transporting Captain Picard to his mission, however you will be fully compensated for your troubles. I also highly suggest readjusting your thruster configuration. I know most commercial pilots in this sector have them modified for personal comfort, but the overuse I assume---"

"I don't care about your assumptions. You're not even an officer. I am going to file a complaint with Captain Picard..."

"Feel free to do so. I'm acting on Captain Picard's orders, sir. Now again we can fully compensate you for your troubles, and even if you request it, fix up the Nanebek for you."

He pauses.

"You'll fix her for me?" he asks

"I'm sure that it can be arranged while the Captain is on his mission." I press....Geordi probably won't like this lol.

"Okay. That...that is more than reasonable. I accept your terms. I just can't believe..." he

"I meant no offense to you or your ship sir." I reply---hopefully he doesn't press me to reveal that I know this is going to happen. He was too outraged

"No, that's okay. I will be more than happy with the compensation and repairs." he says and I nod

I head back to the ready room where Sariel is sitting across from the Captain.

"How did it go with Dirgo?" he asks

"He was at first--not happy. However I managed to make him see reason by offering compensation and...repairs to his ship."

"Mr. Young I did not authorize the repairs to his vessel." he replies

"No sir, and I understand what the diagnostics reported, however his ship is old, and been heavily modified. I'm sure Geordi would be able to free up a few eager engineers to go over the shuttle. We're talking about preventing a future safety issue after all. We don't want any future clients potentially crash landing." I say and Picard sighs

"Very well. I will ask Geordi before we leave. Mr. Young...you should have brought this to my attention when I first gave you the assignment." he says

"Aye sir."

"I don't care what happens in episodes from now on. If there is a pressing security concern, or personal safety is at risk, I need to be informed. Plot development be damned. Am I clear?" he asks

"Crystal sir." I reply

"Sit down, you're just in time for the final briefing here."

Two hours later, I am sitting in the navigator's seat next to Ensign Rager as she pilots the Shuttlecraft. We've logged in our flight plan with the Enterprise. Rager inputs commands into the console and then opens up communications with the Enteprise.

"This is Shuttlecraft Copernicus to Enterprise. Requesting permission to depart." she asks formally and Worf's voice responds

"This is Enterprise, you are cleared for departure Copernicus."

"Thank you Enterprise." Rager replies and finalizes the departure sequence as I watch her intently

Sariel's fingers fly across the board, as she's done this hundreds of times. I then look out the view screen as the shuttlebay doors slowly open as the little alarm effect goes off indicating shuttle launch. The shuttle has engaged it's RCS as we lift off and begin to leave the bay.

"We have cleared the ship sir." Rager reports

"Very good, Ensign. Set a course for Pentarus V." Picard orders

"Aye sir. Course laid in sir."

"Engage Warp 3, Ensign." Picard says

"Aye sir."

The Mining talks are a pressing matter, and we're expected asap. My limited understanding of LCARS is apparent as I've since learned that all LCARS control configurations on any given console are customizable by the user. I did not know this despite years of reading the TNG Tech Manual, and watching operation on the shows. I guess they just couldn't show that in the budget. Sariel sets goes and I watch us go to warp as the starfield gets up close and personal real quick as the nacelle's channel the antimatter and we enter warp space. Captain Picard is feeling conversational.

"How much are you familiar with the mining operations on Pentarus V, Mr. Young?" he asks and Sariel gives me a knowingly look. I turn in my seat to face him.

"Nothing sir. The actual mission is completely disrupted by the crash. So we didn't get to see what the mediators issues were or what you were going their to help solve." I reply

"I thought as much." he gives me a PADD

"Read this. I'll be interested in your opinion on it and a proposed solution." he says and I fight to keep my eyes from boggling out too much

"Aye sir."

This is going to be an interesting few days.
 
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Chapter 44: The Old Man Passes New
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We are on Pentarus V for two weeks, eventually though an agreement was arrived that suited both parties in the dispute and a big celebration was held to thank the Federation and Picard for our assistance. Sariel teaches me the inner workings of the shuttle craft during this time as we have basic piloting lessons. LCARS is easily the most sophisticated, intuitive, and user friendly software I've ever experienced using once I learn how to properly use it. I'm able to configure the console to my liking so I select a basic one button control approach to the console which enables me to program commands easily. Picard is tired, but not exhausted at the end of the dispute as we make our way back to the Enterprise. On route to the ship we get a comm signal from the ship.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I'm still silent.

"Adam, are you okay?" Deanna asks

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

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

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

I Am Locutus of Borg....

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Jadzia..." I reply without thinking

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

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

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

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

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

"To Curzon." we all reply

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

"Hello again."

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

OH boy.
 
Chapter 45: Vash Returns New
Paramount-SkyDance Own Star Trek. For Entertainment Purposes Only. Non-Profit.

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

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

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

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

Where are you, you obnoxious...

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

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

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

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

"What's a Q?" Vash asks confused

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

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

"Sigh. Vash, the Captain---"

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

"Naturally. Why?"

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

"You're reaching."

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Representative Vash is on the main bridge."

Oh no.

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

"Adam."

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Aye sir."

"Fascinating woman." I hear Will quip

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

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

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

"Then what was it?"

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

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

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

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

Insufferable woman.

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

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

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

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

Oh boy.

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

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

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

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

"Q..." I utter

"Q!" exclaims Picard

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

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

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

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

"I am NOT a Knight." Worf replies

"Neither are the rest of us." Picard states

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

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

"Vash?" Picard exclaims alarmed now

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

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

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

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

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

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

"For Vash?" Picard says surprised

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

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

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

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

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

"ENOUGH!" my voice echoes throughout the hall.

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

"Agreed." Picard says

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

"I don't have a plan"

Picard sees my solemn frustrated expression

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

"Well said of course my friend." I Reply

"PAGE! MAP!" Picard orders

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

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

A sound beginning.

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

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

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

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

"Aye." Riker says

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

"Captain..." I start

"My name is Lancelot my liege." he says

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

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

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

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


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

"Adam!"

"Hello Vash. "

"You came for me."

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

They try and bash the door in. Fuck me.

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

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

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

"What?!"

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

"You need to say the words."

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

"TELL me how you feel Adam."

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

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

She kisses me again.

"Q!"

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

"Well done mon ami. "

"Picard to Young?"

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

"Young here, go ahead sir."

"I assume that Vash is with you?"

Arms around each other's waists we smile.

"Yes sir...and everyone else?"

"All accounted for."

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

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

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

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

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

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

I sigh.

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

Q has a shit eating grin.


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

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

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

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

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

She turns to me, and I shrug.

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

"You do care!" I nod

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

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

"That was fast." I say

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

"I bet it was...Q?"

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"What about the symposium?"

"We have a few minutes."

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

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

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

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

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

"I'll try my best to behave."

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

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

She kisses me.

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

I nod.

"Good journey, to you both."

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

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

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

"Picard to Young."

"Young here sir?"

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

"Aye sir."

The Drumhead has begun. Shit. I have to deal with Admiral Satie again. Adam calm.
 
Last edited:
Chapter 46: The Drumhead New
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I enter Captain Picard's ready room and he hands me a PAAD.


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

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

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

I read the report given to me and am surprised.

"This shouldn't have happened sir."

"What?

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


Picard tugs on his uniform.

"Do you suspect sabotage?"

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

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

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

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

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

I smile.

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

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

"Sir?"

"Yes?"

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

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

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

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

"Admiral."

"This is her..."

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

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

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

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

Picard glances at me and sighs

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

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

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

Damned right I don't.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Very well..."

I watch as everyone leaves.

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

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

"Elaborate." Satie says

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

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

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

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

The three morons gasp and I continue.

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

"That is enough!" Satie shouts

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

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

"On what grounds?" Picard asks

"On the grounds of interfering with my investigation."

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

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

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

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


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

"Adam Christopher Young."

"Position?"

"Starfleet Special Consultant."

"How long have you had this post?"

"Since Stardate 43001."

"Very well, Admiral?"

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

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

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

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

"Very well."

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

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

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

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

"I come from an alternate reality."


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

"Yes."

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

"Yes."

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

"Yes"

I have an idea of where this is going.

"Admiral...if I--

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

"Yes sir."

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

"Correct."

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

"Yes..."

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

"Yes."

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"But not fully? Can you elaborate."

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

"I still experience nightmares occasionally."


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

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

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

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

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

Admiral Henry leaves.


"Perhaps we should call a recess." Sabin says

I immediately walk out. Disgusted, and tired. I also now need to deal with Simon.
 
Chapter 47: Simon New
Paramount-SkyDance Own Star Trek. For Entertainment Purposes Only.

I hear the door chime beep.

"Come."

Deanna comes in and I look up.

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

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

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

I nod

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

She nods.

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

"Thank you Counsellor."

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

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

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

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

Deanna laughs.

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

"Sure."

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

Nechayev smiles slightly.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Yes."

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

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

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

"Correct sir."

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

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

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

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

"I accept."

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

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

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

"Aye sir."
 
Chapter 48: Timicin New
Paramount-SkyDance Own Star Trek: For Entertainment Purposes Only. Non-Profit.

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

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

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


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

"On what grounds?" Morani asks

"Diplomatic Security Escort." I reply

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

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

"Captain. You sent for me?" I ask

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Next Up: Civil War!!!
 
Chapter 49: Klingons Make For Strange Bedfellows Part I New
Paramount-SkyDance Own Star Trek. For Entertainment Purposes Only. Non-Profit.


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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Who?" Gowron asks

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


I suspect Sela might have helped in finding him.

"Dishonorable Qu'vatlh!!" he exclaims

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

"Explain."

Captain Picard does so for me

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

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

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

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

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

"I do have some advice Chancellor."

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

Admittedly not much. I suck at Risk.

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

"I am listening."

"You are of course familiar with Captain Martok?"

"Yes. What of him?"

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

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

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

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

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

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

"nuqneh?" he asks

"It is about Worf."

"What of him?"

"Adam..." Picard warns

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

Gowron smiles

"That is good enough for me."

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

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

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

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

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

The Game's On...
 
Chapter 50: Klingons Make For Strange Bedfellows Part II New
Paramount-SkyDance Own Star Trek. For Entertainment Purposes. Non-Profit.

The Enterprise arrives at Qo'nos.

"Picard to Young."

"Young here sir."

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

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

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

"Understood. I'm on my way."

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

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

"naDev ghoS!"

I watch as Picard walks forward.

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

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

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

"I wish it." Gowron confirms

I brace myself for the interruption.

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

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

"There is one. I will challenge him."

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

"An arrogant child." mocks Gowron

Damn Gowron, you're still in danger.

"Who are you?" demands K'Tal

"I am Toral. Son of Duras."

"Duras had no son!" Gowron roars

Then I hear HER voice, and shiver a little.

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

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

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

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

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

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

"We wish to address the Council." Lursa states

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

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

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

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

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

"Impudent wretch!"

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

"Yes sir."

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

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

Worf turns to me.

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

Damn it Kurn. I see his whispers in this.

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

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

"Aye sir."

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

"Are you all right sir?"

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

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

He turns around to look at me.

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

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

Jean-Luc smiles. It is warm.

"What will Worf do?" he asks

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

Picard nods.

"Then my hands are tied."

"Yes sir."

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