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

[DarkDestroyer]

Paramount and SkyDance Own Star Trek. For Entertainment Purposes Only. Non-Profit.

In the Observation Lounge, Worf reports that the Lysian Central Command would have received any transmissions from the destroyer by now. MacDuff spouts the obvious and says that they will be on high alert.

"I recommend a random vectored approach to our target. It would be our best option to avoid any pursuit." Ro recommends

"Agreed. Doctor, the success of this mission would be far more likely if we could get our memories back. Is there anything you can do?" asks the Captain

" I found several cases resembling our condition in the medical index. The causes are different, but the cure is similar in each case."

"Could the same treatment work for us?" Riker asks

"That's my hope. It involves increasing the activity of the medial temporal region of the brain, using short-term memory synapses to retrieve long-term memory."

"When can you start?" Picard asks

" As soon as our medical files become available. It would be dangerous to attempt treatment without them."

"Mr. LaForge?"

"Data and I ran into some trouble accessing the medical file areas in the computer, but with a little time I'm pretty sure we'll be able to get there. Three hours, maximum." LaForge reports

Picard nods

"Proceed."

We gather around Science Station one as Commander LaForge makes his report to the Captain.

"What bothers me Captain, and Mr. Young has pointed this out a couple of times, but how specific the damage to the computer is. Any records of a personal nature, including logs, any files that could tell us about ourselves, those are the ones that are gone."

"It is a little too selective to be coincidence." Riker points out

"This is what I've been saying. All of this doesn't feel right to me at all, and with those specific files missing..."

"As selective as what was done to our memories. Skills still all in place, but personal knowledge is unavailable." Doctor Crusher points out

"Is it consistent with what we know about the Lysian weapon?" MacDuff asks...something about him really puts me off, and I don't know why, his insistence on the bridge yesterday that we fire without communicating first with them, goes against every instinct that I possess.

"Doctor, is it absolutely necessary to see the medical files to attempt treatment?" Picard asks completely ignoring MacDuff's question

"It would be dangerous to do it without them." She replies

"I'll volunteer." I pipe up

"No, thank you Mr. Young, but that's not your place to do that. I will volunteer." MacDuff says

"It's a risk I think we'll have to take." Riker says

Picard nods as does MacDuff.

Later on the tension on the bridge is obvious as Data reports we have entered the Lysian system. The Captain orders Ro to decrease our speed to one quarter impulse power. MacDuff reports that the Central Command is directly ahead.

"Red alert. Battle stations. Bring us to attack position, Mr. Worf." Picard orders

"Aye sir." Worf replies

Data reports that there are multiple objects in our path. MacDuff reports they are sentry pods programmed to defend their central command. Riker reports that there are 47 of them around the perimeter.

"Tactical analysis, Mr. Data."

"The pods are equipped with fusion generated pulse lasers and minimal shielding." I exchange looks with Counsellor Troi and shake my head.

"Not much power there." Riker mutters

"Forward shields to maximum. Lock phasers on target. Prepare to fire." Picard orders

"We are through the perimeter sir." Data reports

"This is too easy." I say and Riker agrees as does the Captain. Everyone is concerned now. We're not supposed to be here.

Worf reports that they've yet to encounter any battleships.

"Load all torpedo bays, ready phasers." Picard orders as I hear the console make that sound as Worf pushes buttons

"Approaching Central Command." Reports MacDuff

"Mr. Data scan for defenses."

"I am picking up no vessels, no additional sentry pods."

"Optimal firing range in 55 seconds." reports Riker

"Phaser banks ready, loading torpedoes." MacDuff says

"What are the defensive capabilities of the Central Command?" asks Picard

"Armaments consist of four laser cannons, thirty nine cobalt fusion warheads with magnetic propulsion. Defensive shield output is four point three kilojules."

That doesn't seem like a whole lot of anything.

"One photon torpedo should do it." Riker muses

"Data, how many people are on that station?" Troi asks

"Fifteen thousand, three hundred, and eleven." he replies

"We're within range Captain." MacDuff reports with an edge

"Stand by." Picard orders as he looks at me

"Waiting for your order sir."

"Captain, this isn't right." Troi says

I stand up from my spot next to Counsellor Troi and stare at the view screen. None of this is right. Something deep down inside of me is nagging at me. SCREAMING at me, but I don't know what it is. My brain has been in a fog this whole time.

Macduff interjects

"Captain, the rest of our forces are depending on us."

"How can our mortal enemy be hundreds of years behind us in weapons technology?" Riker asks

MacDuff is standing now like he was yesterday, becoming more agitated and hostile. I look up at Worf and he nods at me as I start to make my way over. Instinct is guiding me now.

"Their battleships maybe on the way right now. We must attack!" he exclaims

"I do not fire on defenseless people, Mr. Worf open a channel." Picard orders

"Aye sir."

"Belay that order! There's something wrong with the Captain! I'm taking command of this vessel. Fire all weapons! Mister Worf."

Worf though blocks him and GETS TOSSED ACROSS THE BRIDGE FAR TOO EASILY! HOLY SHIT! Riker and I aim our phasers at MacDuff and he fluxes briefly as an alien appears!!! FUCK! MacDuff tries to get to the tactical console, but we briefly exchange looks and fire at him again as does Worf who has recovered. The three of us combined manage to knock him out.

Later on I am in Captain Picard's ready room along with Commander Riker.

"The Lysians have identified Commander MacDuff as an Satarran. An alien race that has been at war with the Lysians for decades. I have conveyed our deepest regrets to the Lysians regarding their lost ship and crew."

"Conundrum..." I say almost chuckling

"Adam?" Riker asks, still getting used to everyone's name again

"This is what the episode title's name was. It's one of my favourites. I never thought in a million years that I would...actually be swept up in it...having my memories taken away..."

Picard and Riker both offer a small smile

"With all the power MacDuff had to alter our brains and memory, it's hard to believe he needed the Enterprise." Will says

"The Satarrans' weapons technology is no more advanced than the Lysians'. One photon torpedo would have ended their war."

"And it almost did." Riker says as the three of us ponder the terrifying possibilities.

I am much later in the evening, sitting down in Ten Forward across from Lt. Smith having our drinks as we discuss the unusual events of the last few days and the war we drawn into...when Ensign Ro approaches us.

"I hope I'm not interrupting you boys."

I get up. Oh boy. This is gonna be awkward.

"Uh...no not at all. Would you care to join us?" I ask

"Actually, you can take my seat Ensign. I should really get going, Adam this was great. When you have down time, call me, and we'll do that rock climbing program I told you about."

"Sounds like fun sir, anytime."

Ro sits after Smith leaves and I quickly down my beer and ask for another one.

"Hi." she says

"Hello." I reply sheepishly

"So I spoke to Counsellor Troi about what happened...between us while we had our memories wiped."

"Oh, and what did Deanna say about it?"

"She mentioned that at times like this, people can do and say things that we've always wanted to."

Oh boy.

"She said that?"

"Probably in a different way in the episode I'm assuming, and not about us."

I am brought another beer and I down it quickly. Talking is thirsty work.

"Yes, about you and Will Riker actually." I retort and she is shocked

"What? Me and Commander Riker?"

I smile enjoying the tables being flipped now

"Uh-uh!"

"Wow...okay touché, but what do you want to do about...what happened?" she asks

"I'll leave that up to you Ensign. I enjoyed what happened immensely, I have been enjoying your company since I've been assigned to you...however if you don't want to pursue..."

"Oh you're not getting out of this that easily Mr. Young. You're stuck with me." she says

The waitress comes over and I order another beer for myself and for Ro.

"I could think of worse places or people to be stuck to...so we're gonna actually do this?" I ask

"It's obvious you have feelings for me. Your actions over the last few months since I came aboard...the way you look at me when you think I'm not looking at you...the intensity of our sparring...all the signs were there. I can't believe you didn't do anything about it prior to this."

"I'm not great with dating..."

"I can tell. You're fascinating Adam, and you were kind to me when no one else has been...I will never forget that."

The waitress returns with our drinks and I raise my glass.

"To...possibilities?" I offer

"Possibilities." Ro replies and we clink glasses and take a gulp

 

[DarkDestroyer]

Paramount and SkyDance Own Star Trek. For Entertainment Purposes Only. Non-Profit.

The days following the Lysian incident are perhaps the most strange since I've been aboard the Enterprise or even in this reality. I lost my memory. Forgetting things is one thing, everyone does that...but outright not knowing who you are? That is something terrifying. Deanna has said that it perfectly natural for us to be feeling...apprehensive as we've been. There are several questions about what happened, still. MacDuff's personnel entry is as complete as any of the others were, including having parents. Starfleet searched their database for a Kieran MacDuff and no one has ever existed, so this was not an identity that he assumed from someone. This was a fabricated identity, but extremely detailed. How was he even able to compromise the computer systems in the first place? I brought this up when we were discussing what happened at a staff meeting, and no one had an answer.

"The Enterprise computer features a number of firewalls and built in security systems that specifically prevent hacking attempts. However, it is possible in theory if you possessed highly developed hacking abilities to do what MacDuff was able to do." LaForge answers

"That brings up another question I've had Data, how he was able to effect you with memory loss, you operate with a positronic network, it should have been impossible to do to you what was done to us."

Data reflects a few moments before answering.

"In theory yes, however...the so-called weapon that MacDuff mentioned, I believe it is how he accomplished what he did with us. A subspace jammer refined to disrupt a certain frequency in my neural net...may have knocked out my memory engrams. Possible, if unlikely."

"How did he know to access that specific frequency though?" I ask

"I do not know. No sensor records exist of his boarding, or indicate how long we were all unconscious for." he answers again

"The Federation Council is sending an Ambassador to the Lyrian Alliance to formally make reparations on our behalf as well as hopefully smooth things over with them. I have also recommended to Starfleet Command to launch an inquiry into how the Satarran's were able to accomplish what they did. I also believe that Mr. Young has done the same in his report." Picard says

"Yes sir."

"What is the status of the Enterprise crew and civilian population where our memories are concerned, Doctor?" he asks

"Almost everyone has had their memories restored now sir. The treatment we discovered has been a complete success. We're working on the final bunch now." Crusher responds

"Very good. If there's nothing else, you're all dismissed."

Everyone gets up and leaves, but I linger behind. Picard looks up.

"Something on your mind, Mr. Young?"

"Yes sir, of a personal nature, sir."

"Go ahead."


"I wanted to...ask how you are doing? You were forced to command the Enterprise, and well...we destroyed thousands of people." I say

Picard heads over to the replicator and orders a cup of Earl Grey for himself and I nod as he orders one and hands it over to me. I sit down.

"How do I feel about being used as a weapon of war against my own will to kill thousands of people I don't know?" Picard asks

"Yes sir."

"How did you feel as Locutus when you were put in that position, Mr. Young?" He asks as I go wide eyed

I Am Locutus of Borg. Resistance Is Futile.

"Like every fiber in my being was violated...sir." I reply cold understanding Picard's meaning behind his question

"That is precisely how I feel right now, Mr. Young. I'm sure the entire crew is feeling similar. Counsellor Troi and her staff are going to be busy over the next few weeks. Eventually we will recover from this, as you are doing from your ordeal...but this will linger with us as well. To answer your question, I am not doing...okay at all. Far from it, but I have been trained and conditioned for experiences like this one. It is something you will learn once you start your psychological training." Picard says

"Yes sir...anything else on your mind Mr. Young? Or was that it?"

"It is regarding Ensign Ro sir. I request permission to be relieved as her handler, sir." I request

"I see for what reason?"

"The two of us, uh...have entered into a personal relationship recently sir..."

"I see. You feel like this will compromise your duties as her handler?" Picard

"Not entirely, but I'm not saying it won't happen."

Picard tugs on his uniform. He gets up and goes over to the port.

"Evaluation assessment please of Ensign Ro, Mr. Young" Picard orders putting me on my toes

"It is my opinion that over the last few weeks since I have been responsible for observing and reporting on Ensign Ro Laren's professional and personal conduct on this ship since her arrival, that she has exceeded this crew's expectations and performed and conducted herself of those standards of which are accepted by yourself as the pinnacle of being a Starfleet officer. I have, as her assigned handler, received zero complaints regarding...well...anything really, and her superior officers have been satisfied with her performance at the conn." I report

Picard turns around and looks at me with a bit of a twinkle in his eyes.

"I agree with your assessment. Ro has performed above and beyond my expectations...and has managed to impress even Commander Riker. We were actually going to recommend that she be released of restrictions...so without further adieu, you are formally dismissed from your assignment. In fact, you can inform the Ensign, the next time you see her, that her restrictions are also rescinded. Very well done Adam..."

"Thank you sir."

Picard nods as I'm dismissed. Picard's words though about what happened to us linger with me....

 

[DarkDestroyer]

Paramount-SkyDance Own Star Trek. For Entertainment Purposes Only. Non-Profit.
Paramount-SkyDance Own Star Trek. For Entertainment Purposes Only. Non-Profit
Paramount-SkyDance Own Star Trek. For Entertainment Purposes Only. Non-Profit
Paramount-SkyDance Own Star Trek. For Entertainment Purposes Only. Non-Profit

The Enterprise arrives in the Typhon Expanse, an area that has never before been explored. We end up going through the first two rounds of the Temporal Causality Loop before I start to remember what is going on. For some reason the number 3 pops into my head in the form of an old radio commercial jingle countdown thing... "Number Three!" I remember this is the Number Data uses as the snap out, and I tell Geordi and Data this during the staff briefing and Data makes a note of it. We go through the THIRD loop, and Data uses the number to jolt his memory to divert the Bozeman from colliding with the Enterprise (Riker's plan) and freeing us from the causality loop. It works, and our systems and chronometers are reset. We hail the Bozeman and greet Captain Bateson and explain matters to him, I am still not sure why he wouldn't recognize the name Enterprise...maybe because the Enterprise-A is supposed to be off elsewhere in his time, I don't know.

The Enterprise arrives in the Typhon Expanse, an area that has never before been explored. We end up going through the first two rounds of the Temporal Causality Loop before I start to remember what is going on. For some reason the number 3 pops into my head in the form of an old radio commercial jingle countdown thing... "Number Three!" I remember this is the Number Data uses as the snap out, and I tell Geordi and Data this during the staff briefing and Data makes a note of it. We go through the THIRD loop, and Data uses the number to jolt his memory to divert the Bozeman from colliding with the Enterprise (Riker's plan) and freeing us from the causality loop. It works, and our systems and chronometers are reset. We hail the Bozeman and greet Captain Bateson and explain matters to him, I am still not sure why he wouldn't recognize the name Enterprise...maybe because the Enterprise-A is supposed to be off elsewhere in his time, I don't know.

The Enterprise arrives in the Typhon Expanse, an area that has never before been explored. We end up going through the first two rounds of the Temporal Causality Loop before I start to remember what is going on. For some reason the number 3 pops into my head in the form of an old radio commercial jingle countdown thing... "Number Three!" I remember this is the Number Data uses as the snap out, and I tell Geordi and Data this during the staff briefing and Data makes a note of it. We go through the THIRD loop, and Data uses the number to jolt his memory to divert the Bozeman from colliding with the Enterprise (Riker's plan) and freeing us from the causality loop. It works, and our systems and chronometers are reset. We hail the Bozeman and greet Captain Bateson and explain matters to him, I am still not sure why he wouldn't recognize the name Enterprise...maybe because the Enterprise-A is supposed to be off elsewhere in his time, I don't know.

Eventually Data recalls the "Number Three" and we escape the loop...that is something I never want to experience again. The Enterprise hails the Bozeman as Captain Picard explains what just happened to Captain Bateson, and where...well...where they are. Picard offers to have them come aboard and assigns myself and Troi to the Transporter Room along with Commander Riker to greet him. I head to Transporter Room and acknowledge Miles who is there at his position like always. I try and compose myself as I'm about to meet Kelsey Grammer!! Frasier Crane himself!! Captain Bateson and his first officer. Will greets both officers as Bateson introduces his first officer, Lt-Commander Parvana Whitcomb, interesting...from the novels.

"This is our Ship's Counsellor, Deanna Troi." Will introduces

"Captain." she acknowledges, as he shakes Deanna's hand

"Our Starfleet Special Advisor, Adam Christopher Young" I shake Bateson's hand and it's a firm, strong grip.

"I didn't know Starfleet had Civilian Advisors serving." Bateson says and I smile

"I assure you Captain, that I'm a special case." I reply

"Captain Picard is waiting for you both in his ready room. Afterwards, if you'd like, the Counsellor or Mr. Young are available to give you a tour?"

"That would be most interesting, thank you Commander."

"This way please Captain."

I wink at Miles as we leave. This should be interesting. I'm so damned glad we got out of that fucking loop.

Captain Bateson not surprisingly is adjusting quite well to his new surroundings, and is incredibly charming and intelligent. A little stern at times but not at all "by the book" strict as I kind of assumed him to be. His first officer, as it turns out, is actually his acting first officer as Sulu was originally offered the position but had to bow out after being introduced to Demora for the first time. Bateson chuckles about as he reflects on the situation.

"Hikaru was so excited. As you are probably aware...this is going to take some time to process what you've told me about. This was the second time he was offered an exec job but had to turn it down due to unforeseen circumstances. He was apologetic, but beaming due to discovering he had a daughter. I told him that when we returned from our mission we would arrange something...but alas. Now you tell me he was Federation President." he muses

"Yes sir. You'll have a chance to meet him too."

Bateson's eyes grow wide

"He's still alive?" he exclaims

"Oh yes...at the grand old age of 131.

"Marvelous."

"Indeed."

"The others?"

"Admiral McCoy is still ticking, celebrated his 150th birthday last year I believe, in a hover chair. Still cantankerous as ever I'm told. Spock is an Ambassador. Admiral Uhura is semi-retired and teaches at the Academy. Admiral Chekov is a former head of Starfleet Intelligence."

"Kirk?"

"Captain Kirk was trapped in a reality construct called the Nexus in the year 2293...we're currently working to rescue him."

"Scotty? I'd hate to have lost the old devil..."

"You knew Scotty?"

"Montgomery Scott is one of my oldest friends. We served together when we were Ensign's." Bateson explains

"Scotty was lost on a mission." I say

Bateson's expression turns sorrow, and I feel guilty. I should have dealt with the Jenolan sooner.

"Remarkable man, brilliant engineer, and one of the greatest friends you could possibly ask for. I can't believe he's gone."

We're silent for a long while until he brings me up.

"You've done remarkably well for yourself considering the circumstances. I can't imagine being lost in reality though..."

"It's been difficult at times. I miss my family and friends...but have gained new ones while being here."

Bateson nods, and slaps me on the back.

"Well, once I'm settled, depending on what I am doing, if you ever need anything, don't hesitate to ask. It's been a pleasure getting to know you a bit."

"It has been my honor to get to know you sir, you've given me a lot to think about."

"Have I?"

"Oh yes."

I know what I have to do now. I excuse myself to go talk to Captain Picard.

 

[DarkDestroyer]

Paramount and SkyDance Own Star Trek. For Entertainment Purposes Only. Non-Profit

An escort arrives to take the Bozeman to the nearest Starbase where Bateson and the crew will be properly debriefed before heading back to Earth. Captain Picard is surprised that I want to speak to him, usually I'm not as urgent as I am right now.

"Your message seemed urgent Mr. Young."

"It is sir. I request permission to right a wrong."

"Oh? Explain."

"Montgomery Scott sir."

"The former Chief Engineer of Kirk's Enterprise...he was lost while being transported to a retirement planet, if I recall correct."

"Yes sir, Norpin V is the planet's name."

Picard places down the PADD he was reading.

"Let me guess, you're about to tell me that isn't the case?"

"It is the case sir, just not exactly what anyone has known." I reply, guilt ever increasing

"He's alive somewhere?"

I exhale.

"The Jenolan was lost but...not in the manner most ships are. It discovered a Dyson's Sphere somewhere near Norphin V...it is there sitting on the...construct's...surface. Scotty put his and another crewmen's pattern into the transporter---the crewman's...and Ensign, I've forgotten his name---his pattern is about to be lost---but Scott's is still strong enough to retrieve."

"A Dyson's Sphere..." Picard breathes in awe

"Yes sir."


"I am starting to understand now. You are wanting to go and rescue them. May I ask what brought this on? You mentioned righting a wrong?"

"Yes sir, it was a conversation with Captain Bateson before they left. He mentioned to me that Scotty was a long time friend, I said what happened to him...and felt immediately guilty that I hadn't done anything about this before. I have hesitated in the past due to not having the exact coordinates...and..."

"Not to mention the episode hasn't happened yet. When does it?"

"A year or so from now sir."

"If we go get him now, will we be interfering with his or the timeline in general?"

"No sir, in fact...if we go now, there's a chance Scotty might come up with a solution as to how to rescue Captain Kirk, when it's mentioned to him. He was on the Enterprise-B along with Chekov."

Picard nods

"Very well...we don't have anything pressing right now, I will bring this up with Starfleet Command and I trust they will have no problem with this."

I nod

"Is that all Adam?"

"Aye sir."


I'm dismissed. We're coming Scotty.

 

[DarkDestroyer]

Paramount-SkyDance Own Star Trek. For Entertainment Purposes Only. Non-Profit.

Starfleet Command approves the mission to rescue Captain Scott, after being surprised about it, and the Enterprise sets a course for Norpin V. Captain Picard has called a senior staff meeting to discuss the matter.

"Starfleet happened to have the Jenolan's flight path cataloged since, all Starfleet ships mission coordinates are normally logged and sent back in reports." Data reports.

"Why was there no follow up? An attempt to locate the ship?" I ask

"If the Jenolan was caught by the Sphere's gravitational field, and crushed, it is highly likely that Starfleet assumed at the time that all hands were lost, and that there was no point in sending aide of any kind." Data replies

"In fact no one would know otherwise---until I assume we come across it?" Riker asks

"Yes sir. It is interesting though because the Jenolan put out a distress signal...perhaps though due to interference from the Dyson's Sphere it is undetectable. The Jenolan discovers the Sphere while discovering a multitude of communications arrays and hails it."

"What happened next?" Geordi asks curious

"The hail activated one of the Sphere's tractor breams which attempted to lock onto the Jenolan, but due to ship's diminutive structure, this overloaded the ship's systems along with it's aft power coil--which exploded--"

"Which caused it then to get caught in the gravity well, and it got pulled until it crashed on it's surface. Damn." LaForge finishes for me

"Exactly so."

"Captain Scott has been trapped in the transporter buffer for 74 years..." Beverly says

Data rattles off the precise date and time.

"Picking up the distress call will obviously give us the location of the Sphere, and the ship. I trust you forgot about the distress call?" Riker asks me

"I did." damn my memory

"Another thing...it's going to be tempting, but I would highly recommend avoiding the Sphere altogether. " I say

"You think what happened to the Jenolan, will happen to us?" Troi asks

"It's possible despite the Enterprise being obviously bigger, and more well equipped. It happened in the episode, once the Enterprise reaches orbit. A whole series of events occur which eventually result in firing torpedoes and destroying the Jenolan."

"Can we free Captain Scott and his companion without orbiting the Sphere?" Picard asks

"I mean, this is all about sending an away team to the ship to uncover the pattern buffers. If we can beam over an away team without orbiting the Sphere...sure." I reply

"What about if we used a shuttle? We can pilot the shuttle, close enough to beam over, recover Captain Scott and the other crewmember, beam back to the shuttle--then beam back to the Enterprise." Geordi says

I sit back in my chair. I didn't think this through enough. I rub my temples.

"It could work...but we'd have to be extremely careful. The Dyson's Sphere is incredibly complex and powerful...in the episode Geordi and Scotty work together to resolve the issue...but i'd just as well avoid it altogether if possible."

Picard nods, tugs his uniform and gets up.

"We'll do our best to make it so. Dismissed."

Lo and behold, we come across a feint signal as we approach the Norpin System. I am sitting on the bridge in the spot beside Deanna's chair.

"I have identified the signal. It is indeed from the USS Jenolan."

Riker looks at the data coming in on his arm panel.

"Code one alpha zero. Ship in distress." Riker says

That was the code. Damn. I am not at that part in my training yet either.

Picard glances at me.

"It would seem you are correct Mr. Young. Ensign Rager full stop. Scan for the Sphere, Mr. Data. Full sensor sweep."

"There is a massive gravitational field, and I am also detecting an object approximately two hundred meters in diameter."

"The Jenolan?" Picard asks

"Yes sir, it would seem to be the case. The object's mass is causing a great deal of gravimetric interference. It is likely as theorized before, why we were unable to detect it or the ship's distress signal before."

I was right.

"So what do we do? Risk a shuttle? We enter that system, we're immediately going to be pulled by the Sphere's gravity well as Mr. Young suggested." Riker says

"I think we have to risk sending a shuttle." Picard says

"It's also possible that I've overthought this, and we'll be fine by compensating for the effect." I offer

Picard shakes his head.

"You're correct in that we should take caution. Even if Scott and LaForge are able to get us out of this...I don't want to risk putting us in that position in the first place. Number One, take a shuttle and rescue Captain Scott. If there are any immediate problems entering the system, return to the ship."

"Riker to Engineering . Geordi, join us in the main shuttle bay please. Mr. Worf..." He starts up the ramp then pauses and looks at me.

"Mr. Young would you like to accompany us?"

I look at Captain Picard who doesn't give a reaction. This is Will's call. I beam.

"Aye sir." and Will nod's with a smile

We take a shuttle and head into the system...and already Geordi has to compensate for the gravimetric field. The Dyson's Sphere LOOMS large in front of us. It reminds me of the Death Star but with Spacedock's doors, and like a million times larger.

"Remarkable." I breathe

"It really is. Until now, the Dyson's Sphere has been nothing but a theoretical dream." Riker says

The show never did it justice. It was reused model from another episode or movie I think, plus the Spacedock's doors. Now they would have done it CGI or use the AR wall. Geordi brings us within transporter range of the Jenolan, it is very close from being too far outside range but just enough that we might be able to pull this on. Geordi sets the shuttle on automatic as the four of us prepare to beam over to the ship.

We beam over and oh man, the air is rank. I start coughing immediately.

"The air is pretty stale." Riker says

"Life support still has some juice to it. We got here timely." LaForge reports

"See if you can increase the oxygen levels." Riker orders

"Aye sir."

The place is a dump. It is only a Sydney-Class science transport after all. These things were made for one purpose only...the TOS movie era paneling and layout though is gorgeous. I smile as I glide my hand against a dusty console. Okadua grams all over the place. I head over to join Geordi at the Transporter console. It is small too. Everything packed together. I look down at it and chuckle. Hello, old friend. A tear uncontrollably streaks down my cheek and Will notices it.

"You okay, Mr. Young?"

"Yeah. This is defiantly Scotty's handiwork. I don't have to be a technical genius to recognize the jury-rigging style. This is exactly what he would have done. Both his and...Franklin...that was his name...both his and Franklin's pattern are still in tact. Sir?" I motion to LaForge and he nods.

Geordi makes some adjustments on the console as it lights back up as power is partially restored and he runs his fingers over the "energize" controls and in a few seconds...there is Montgomery Scott arm in makeshift sling...standing on the platform.

"Franklin..." he mutters

"Ensign Franklin's pattern is still at 70 percent. We got here in time sir." I report to Geordi and he nods. Scott lumbers over and hovers over us as Geordi manages to re-energize Franklin who stands on the platform looking bewildered.

"It worked..." he says

"Aye lad." Scotty says as he turns to face us

"I'm Commander William T. Riker, starship Enterprise, Lt-Commander Geordi LaForge, Special Advisor Adam Christopher Young."

"The Enterprise? I bet old Jim Kirk himself got the old girl out of mothballs to come looking for me. Captain Montgomery Scott, and this is Ensign Matt Franklin. Tell me, how long have we been missing?"

Riker looks at me. I shrug. Brain fog from being in the Transporter for too long?

"Well.." Will begins as Worf returns to report that he has restored life support, and that oxygen levels should return shortly. The air is already better.

"Captain Scott, Lt. Worf." Riker introduces

"Lieutenant?" Scott asks incredulously

"Captain, perhaps we have a lot of things to talk about. Geordi, can we beam back to the shuttle?"

"Aye sir. We should go in groups of two."

"Shuttle?" Scott asks

"Thanks to Mr. LaForge's suggestion , we took a shuttle rather than risking the Enterprise herself...in case we got trapped in the gravity field as you did."

"That was clever laddie." Scotty says

"Thank you sir." Geordi replies

"Captain Scott and Franklin go first, then Worf and LaForge , and Mr. Young and I will go last." Riker orders

"Aye sir." Geordi says and taps his badge and requests the Enterprise to lock on to our coordinates to beam out Scotty and Franklin. Riker and I watch as Worf and Geordi beam out.

"So far so good, Mr. Young?" Will asks

"Yes sir...but we're not done yet by a long shot." I reply

 

[DarkDestroyer]

Paramount-SkyDance Own Star Trek. For Entertainment Purposes Only.

Will and I are beamed off last as Commander Riker programs the shuttle to return to the Enterprise automated. Sometime later after Scotty and Franklin have been looked at by Doctor Crusher and cleared, I find him in the holodeck, just like in the episode. I enter. It is truly a breathtaking replication of the original Constitution-Class Enterprise.

"I apologize if I'm interrupting, but I Thought I'd find you in here and wanted to see how you're...doing. Captain Picard will be along shortly."

"Not at all, not at all. Have a drink with me?"

"I'd be delighted."

Not really, but Scotty pours me a shot.

"I dunno what it is exactly, but I would be real careful...it..."

"Aldebaran whiskey."

I say as the shock of the punch hits me like a brick. Fuck. I cough once and Scotty's impressed. Fuck I hate whiskey.

"Ah. You know it?"

"Sort of. Captain Picard gave it to Guinan, Guinan gave me a shot once as a joke."

I cough again and tap my chest

"Constitution-Class Starship."

"Aye. You're familiar with them?"

I smile.

"Oh yes, you could say that. There's one in the fleet museum. I've never had a chance to go yet...but of course this was your Enterprise."

"I actually served on two, but you knew that I understand. It is taking me a wee bit of time to digest exactly what is happening, and what you and the others have told me."

"Captain Scott..."

"Call me Scotty." I beam and tug my shirt

"Scotty..." I pause for a second as I register the emotional significance of saying his nickname FOR REAL to him.

"I have one other thing to tell you. The others think I should wait, but I can tell how you are right now. I have a mission for you if you're willing to accept it?"

He has a twinkle in his eye. The first time I've seen it since he's been back.

"Mission? What mission?"

"Captain Kirk is alive, Scotty. In the Nexus."

It was brief Transporter Memory fog, Beverly said since no one had been in the transporter buffer that long, it was a side effect that was bound to happe.

Scotty pauses for a moment and sits down in the command chair.

"The Captain...is alive?" he asks in disbelief

"Yes sir. He was sucked into the Nexus during the transport process with the El-Aurian ship. I have since revealed this to Spock, who has in turn told your comrades. We have been working on a way to rescue him but haven't come up with nothing yet."

"The Nexus...of course it was the bloody Nexus. We all thought he was sucked into the vacuum of space...you think there's a way to pull him out of the bloody thing?" he asks

"There has to be. We need you as part of the team. Jim needs you." I reply

"I accept." I offer Scotty my hand and he shakes it as we lament on the past together.

This all worked out incredibly well as we were due back on Earth for the Starfleet Academy Commencement Speech, now we get to come home with a hero...and start the process of saving another. I just hope Wesley listened to my advice about staying away from Nicholas Locarno...

 

[DarkDestroyer]

Paramount-SkyDance Own Star Trek. For Entertainment Purposes Only.

The Enterprise comes home after we successfully rescue Scotty and Franklin. Starfleet has dispatched a couple of science vessels to properly explore the Dyson's Sphere which makes huge news in the physics community as one would expect. Ensign Leftler is excited to see Wes again and I'm both anticipating and dreading what I might discover. Is history going to repeat itself or did Wesley listen to me and manage to avoid Locarno? I can't believe it is September already. The year has flown by again. I guess that really isn't much different than back at home.

We beam down on the Presidio grounds of Starfleet Academy, in my time this is the location of LucasFilm and there's a giant Yoda statue where the water fountain is. As expected we are greeted by a horde of Starfleet and Federation dignitaries. Admiral Shanthi has come back to Earth for this occasion and is standing next to the Starfleet Academy Superintendent---Admiral Jacqueline Brand, looking every bit the disciplinary she is, Picard has called her a formidable woman due to past encounters. Admiral's Brackett, and Nechayev. The Federation President---Jaresh-Inyo is amongst them along with members of his cabinet, a lot of them are new after the recent election so I don't recognize any. Elizabeth is busy on Utopia Plantia or else she would have been here. Then I see them. The Living Legends and I try to steady myself. Bones comes from behind them on his hover chair with absolute joy on his face, before any introductions can be made---the living legends follow their elder statemen's lead and greet their lost comrade. All of them embrace. I don't fight off the tears. I should have done this a long time ago.

They break apart and Former President Sulu, with George Takei's baritone voice still very much intact---the technology in this century is remarkable beyond words to describe... turns to me.

"A chance to finally meet the man responsible for this little reunion...."

I wipe my tears and smile.

"I should have done this a lot sooner than I did Mr. President."

"Nonsense son, you did what you felt was right. I've read up upon you...especially after seeing you with that Borg business. We're just thankful that you brought Scotty home."

Spock is not here. He is still on Romulus. Bones hovers towards me.

"Well kid, you have our attention. You really think we can rescue Jim?" he asks

"Yes sir. I do...especially with Scotty back."

He nods. Scotty and Uhura embrace separately and talk together while more formal introductions are made. Jaresh-Inyo approaches me.

"Mr. Young. It gladdens me that I have this opportunity to finally meet and thank you in person for the continued dedicated service to the United Federation of Planets that you have provided under the...unique circumstances...of your presence. You have my upmost thanks and appreciation."

"Thank you Mr. President, that means a lot."

This continues for some time until all the formalities are over with, Scotty goes off with Franklin with his friends. They have a lot to talk about while I head with Beverly, and Robin to see Wesley in the dorms. I've visited the Academy buildings when I was on Earth two years ago. I was given a formal tour, but this is a little different. We knock on the door and Wes is there to answer.

"Mom! Robin! Adam!" he's surprised to see us...maybe he thought the reception would be longer?

The three of us are invited in and both Beverly and Robin exchange hugs with Wes.

"You're looking well. You're eating okay?" Beverly asks

"Yeah mom, I'm fine. Sit down. All of you." there's a couch nearby and we do so

There's small talk that follows, as there's suddenly a knock on the door. Wesley looks sheepish as he goes to answer it.

"Sito, Josh? What's up." he asks of his squad mates

I hear the latter name and sit up now. The two women notice my sudden interest.

"They've officially suspended Locarno. The ruling just came down a few minutes ago." Sito reveals

"Oh...." Wes then looks at me quickly before glancing back at his squad mates.

"You two might as well come on in. Where's Jean?" Wesley asks

"In our dorm." Sito replies

Josh and Wesley are dormmates. Jean Hajar and Sito Jaxa share a dorm as well, while Locarno as squad commander enjoyed the privilege of his own quarters.

"She'll join us in a little bit."

Wesley introduces us to his squadmates. I smile as I see Cadet Albert as he shakes hand.

"It's good to meet all of you, especially you Mr. Albert."

"T-thanks." For all he knows, he just shook hands with Locutus of Borg

Wes looks up at me.

"I know you wanted me to avoid Nick completely, but that wasn't possible when I was first offered Nova Squadron. In fact I didn't notice anything to merit what you told me...then..."

"Then we started to notice erratic behavior from Locarno..." Sito interjects

"Let me guess, he pushed you guys, but not like a leader would. He pushed you to do things you were uncomfortable with?" I ask

"Yeah. The Starburst was the last straw. We realized he wanted to do it for him, and it had nothing to do with us. So we reported him." Albert says

I smile.

"I'm proud of you all. I know it was tough, and you might get some flak from your fellow cadets...but trust me, the alternative would have been worse."

"I think that is enough discussion for now. Let's go take them out to eat." Beverly says and I agree

"You all go ahead. There's someone I want to check on. I'll catch up with you later." I say and head out to do the other thing I came here to do. I actually hope she's on planet.

 

[DarkDestroyer]

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"Crusher to Young."

"Go ahead Doctor."

"We're about to order, how much longer are you going to be with your errands?" Beverly asks

"Ah yeah sorry. Go ahead and order without me. I'll join up with you later. Where are you?

"We're at the Admiral's Clubhouse on Fisherman's Wharf. You know it?"

"I do. I'll be there in a half a hour or less."

"Sounds good. Crusher out."

I make a beat for my location and stop outside the dorm room and knock on the door. There's a couple of seconds before it opens, and Cadet Third Class Ishara Yar opens the door.

"Adam! This is a surprise. Come in! Excuse the mess. My roommate is at class, you're in luck. I just got back from on."

There are clothes sprouted around everywhere. It looks like a celebrities selfie! Ishara is wearing her cadet uniform and looks fantastic always. She gives me a hug.

"We're in for the Commencement Speech tomorrow, I thought I would drop by and say hello, and see how you're doing. Your letters sounded like you were adjusting nicely."

"I should have known you would have visited. Data sent a nice message yesterday, and said he would visit after the speech. I'm doing okay. You were right. Being here was what I needed. It has been a huge adjustment but my roommate Grace has helped a lot."

"You've not tried to toss anyone have you?" I ask half serious

She laughs.

"Not yet...almost a couple of wrestling matches though!"

I blanch.

"I'm kidding. Borash by the way is great. He's off planet right now on a training mission. He got your message but apologized for not being present. I'm surprised Will didn't tell you."

"Things have been busy."

"I saw! Scotty and the Dyson's Sphere. All the physics nerds are going crazy over it. That must've been something for you."

"It was. I hate to bail this quickly, but I'm expected at dinner. You look good, and happy too."

"So do you."

"I am. I have a girlfriend now."

"Oh? Anyone I know?"

"Probably not. Ensign Ro Laren."

"Oh. Why am I not surprised?" her change in demeaner compared to when she was on the Enterprise is night and day. Freedom will do that to a person. I laugh and we hug again.

"I'll stop by again before we depart. We're here until the end of the week."

"Thank you for visiting Adam, it means a lot, and thank you again for all of this."

"You're welcome Ishara. You're the one who made the decision to help us. The rest is all you now. I'm glad that's things are going so well. I'll see you later."

I smile.

I have one more person I want to visit before I rejoin the others. This should be interesting.

 

[DarkDestroyer]

Paramount-SkyDance Own Star Trek. For Entertainment Purposes Only. Non-Profit.

Author's Note: A bit of a commentary on this chapter. This was originally written differently, because at the time I hadn't seen the episode at the Academy with Mariner, and had no idea that was basically the origin of her character arc, so I had written her very much as her show persona. So I have re-written this a bit to reflect that change. It's not exact because I didn't want to completely lose that personality so as to tease the possibilities of the future still with her, but this is essentially the beginning of several of SI Adam's side projects for lack of a better term.

I traverse the campus and take a moment or two to admire my surroundings. The Academy grounds are really beautiful. The bridge on the horizon, the bay nearby...immaculately kept by Boothby who I haven't seen yet anywhere. No doubt he's busy tending to his beloved fauna. I then continue onwards to the main building and find the directory. You can find anyone you're looking for here. I type in a couple of names. The first one comes up, she's currently wrapping up in a class. The other one though is not.

"Computer, current location of Cadet Fourth Class, Beckett Mariner."

"Cadet Mariner is currently in the gymnasium."

I head to the gym which is enormous. Bigger than the Enterprise's and I think that's huge. I get the odd look from people recognizing me as I traverse the halls. I have been here before, but also everyone knows my face thanks to the Borg now. I Am Locutus of Borg. I'm one of the most famous---or infamous people on the planet. Which is an uncomfortable feeling. I find her, and of course since this isn't animated, it is Tawny Newsome in all her glory. She's remarkable. Adam stop. You're in a relationship. She's wearing work out gear and taking out her frustrations on a punching bag.

"Cadet Mariner..."



"Yes?" she asks as she turns around. This Mariner is different of course. Not yet shaped by what happened to Sito, and her experiences in the Dominion War yet. I knew that by butterflying what I wanted, that there would be some consequences...but this particular one...I need put right somehow.

"Oh shit it's you! Locutus! I mean shit sorry, the Anomaly!" she exclaims

"Indeed it is. Is that what I'm known as now? The Anomaly?"

"Pretty much yeah, or Locutus. Wait. What can I do for you?" she asks


I shouldn't have come, but my curiosity has got the better of me.

" I'm here for the Commencement Speech. I uh--"

"Holy shit, you know me don't you! From a show or something!"

Mariner was always clever. She should've been a Captain, like her mom. Maybe she still be now.

"Guilty as charged. I couldn't help myself. I was curious."

"Oh wowwww. Whew. Wait. My Mom didn't send you did she?"

"Oh no. I've never met your mom... yet. You care for a spotter?" I motion the bag

"You box?"

"On and off for the last couple of years." I say as I hold the bag and she starts punching...and yes...packs a punch.


"You're not here to try and pick me up or anything are you? I find this a little surreal."

"No, I have a girlfriend. I just was curious and wanted to meet you. I'm...a big fan actually."

Cheesy as FUCK.

"No way! So you wanna grab a bite or something" wait is SHE trying to pick me up?

"Actually I have plans after I'm done here. I just really wanted to say hi."

"That's random."

I chuckle

"Yeah it is. I can see why you would think I am trying to hook up with you...but honestly I'm just thrilled to meet you. I understand Commander Riker is your sponsor?"

"Yeah, he's the best!"

"He is that yes."

The two of us continue this until I see Cadet Amelia Ramsey approach us...and she has the same reaction to seeing me as others do.

"Holy shit. It's you!" Ramsey exclaims

Mariner gets wide eyed again and the two have a moment together. They do the squeal thing.

"Adam Young, it's nice to meet you Cadet Ramsey."

"You know my name!!!!"

"You and Mariner are best friends. Of course I do."

"This is crazy!" Mariner exclaims

"Okay. I should go. I've been here longer than I should have. I probably should have approached this better. Oh before I do go...leave Professor Rubchik's car alone. Both of you." I say and the two of them look stunned as I smile then I hear

"Nice to meet you too, Mr. Anomaly!" from Mariner

I start to head out of the gym now thinking about the changes that I have already started to make and the consequences of them.

 

[DarkDestroyer]

Paramount-SkyDance Own Star Trek. For Entertainment Purposes Only. Non-Profit.

Picard's commencement speech was one for the ages. Scotty is debriefed and assigned to the Daystrom Institute--Special Projects Division where he immediate assumes command of the attempt to rescue Jim Kirk. He immediate re-organizes the staff and brings in people that he thinks will help with getting the job done. Captain Bateson and Scotty also reunite. The Enterprise the departs Earth.


A few weeks pass as I finally enter my quarters after another long day of school, and training. I toss my jacket on the back of my desk chair, and sit down on the couch, just as I'm about to kick off my boots...my door bell chimes. I sigh. Maybe I shouldn't have chosen Security. I'm around 185 pounds now and am 15 percent body fat. So I've dropped nearly a 100 pounds since arriving to the Star Trek Universe. Morani is still on my case, even with my other schooling. Guinan and Ro's friendship has grown since they both have been training me in the usage of weapons, and Ro has started teaching me combat techniques. I have the bruises to show for it. I'm tired...so very tired. The Borg Nanites are amazing technology, but I have been over doing it these last few weeks.

"Come."

All 5'5 of Deanna Troi, Ship's Counsellor, my therapist and confidant, Chocolate aficionado extraordinaire, comes barreling into my living room and I don't have to be empathic to tell she's furious about something.

"What in the hell does my mother think she's doing?" exclaims Deanna

Oh shit. I've been so busy I forgot Mrs. Troi was on aboard. I manage to prop myself up. I should probably go see someone in Sickbay....

"Deanna, I'm sorry, but I'm really tired."

"I'm sorry, but is she out of her mind. What does she think she's doing?"

"Getting married." I reply as I motion to sit next to me

It's this episode...

"You know what I mean. What is the deal with this...this---Campino..."

"Deanna...I'm extremely tired right now...and I would love nothing more than to discuss your mother's situation with you, but not right now. Besides which I have news that will cheer you up."

"What?"

"Alexander is coming on board tomorrow. K'hyler is on a extended mission and so she is dropping him off for a few days, until a courier from Earth arrives for him. I suggest that you introduce him to your mother." I say leaning back down into the couch

"Alexander?! Why would I subject my godson to my mother!?"

I sigh again. I'm really tired.

"You'll be surprised. The two will become like peas in a pod, and he will be the perfect prescription for her...I'll come around and check on them if it will make you feel better, as for your mother---she knows what she's doing. Everything will turn out okay in the end."

"You're patronizing me." she says as she crosses her arms---whenever Deanna crosses her arms---look out.

"I'm really not. I'm just really fucking tired...look, I understand your concern. Your mother is like a blaze of fire...especially when she sets her mind on something. But trust me, all this will work out."


"Also do me one favor Deanna?"

"Yes?"

"Could you inform Data, Geordi, and the Captain that a parasite is eating through the nitrium in the ship's systems right now? It will be extremely difficult to detect, the dilithium crystal chamber, and the power transfer conduits will probably be their main targets. A burst of exanogen gas should deal with them, and there's an nearby asteroid---"

Her eyes grow wide.

"You really should have reported this earlier to the Captain."

"I know...I'm really, really tired though. I brushed off Ro tonight because I'm so zonked."

"Fine, but the Captain won't be happy."

"He will be once the parasite is flushed out!" I smile my shit eating smile

"You know, you're really obnoxious sometimes." she states

She's not wrong.

"You don't know the half of it. Good night Imzadi, give my best to Will." I sing song

Deanna makes the cutest irritated sound and huffs off. I can hear her call the bridge as soon as my door swishes open. Picard will be annoyed at me that I didn't report this sooner, but i honestly almost forgot.

 

[DarkDestroyer]

Paramount-Skydance Own Star Trek. For Entertainment Purposes Only. Non-Profit

The Borg Drone designated Three of Five is brought aboard the ship. Beverly and Geordi begin to...bond with it and give it a name...Hugh. Captain Picard wants to know more about the Borg virus. I explain it's origins to him that on the show Geordi comes up with it as a potential way to end the threat of the Collective. It would be introduced as a counter software component and make it's way through their network.

"Admiral Hanson agreed with my assessment that if it came to it---that it would be our best chance at eliminating the threat of the Borg forever."

Picard sighs and adjusts his uniform while standing before his ready room port looking out at the stars streaking by.

"I find it hard to believe that my old friend would agree to geocide." Picard says trying to wrap his head around the moral implications. I start to get agitated.

"Sir, with all due respect, this isn't a moral issue. The Borg Collective aren't interested in peace. They exist entirely to consume knowledge. They assimilate...negotiating isn't even a remote possibility with them. They aren't capable of it. Now that we have deflected their original attempt at assimilation---they will be relentless. They they'll keep coming and coming."

Picard turns around to face me

"And we will beat them at every turn...Adam...I sympathize with what you've been through, I truly do, and this is awkward since I was supposed to go through this, so I assume that the other Picard---shared at least some of your views. I have been ordered by Starfleet Command to deal with the Borg threat any means necessary and I will follow those orders...but I can not simply ignore the moral issues that this presents us with. Dealing with THIS...this choice---is the very reason Q challenged us at Farpoint, why humanity was put on trial, you know this better than anyone else."

"Captain...I am a peaceful person. I cherish life just as most of the other sentient lifeforms in this galaxy do---so believe me when I say that this pains me to even be discussing this as the devil's advocate to you...there's no other way to deal with them."

"That's not what Superman would say." I frown....that was unexpected, and Picard's right. Clark would find another way because that is what Superman does.

We end the conversation on that note. I head to Ten Forward and see Guinan tending bar and request an IPA. She pours me one.

"Let me guess, you're refusing to see the Borg."

"I'm not going to do it. There's no reason for me to do it."

"I thought the same way, but I went to see him....I know the real reason why you don't want to see him, and it's not because you're angry or scared." Damn her.

"Why?"

"You've seen how the episode unfolds. You know that in the end we do the right thing, the moral thing. You're fighting against that."

I put my beer down.

"Am I? Is that what I'm doing?"

"Go see the Borg for yourself and you'll know the answer to that question." I sigh and leave.

I enter the brig and nod at the security Lt manning his station. He nods at me as he watches me carefully go up to...3 of 5's cell. I stare at him for a while. He walks up to the grid and stares back at me. HE...I'm already doing it. Anger wells up in me.

"Locutus?" He asks

"State Your Designation." I say as Locutus and i'm already sickened by myself, that voice comes back so easily.

"We Are Hugh."

"That is not a Borg a designation." I watch as it thinks for a moment.

"We Are Third of Five." It had to think to reach that conclusion. It's happened so fast.

"This culture will be assimilated." I continue in that monotone voice

"They do not wish it."

What?

"Irrelevant."

"They will resist us."

"Resistance is futile."

I say cold as fuck. What am I doing? I LIKE Hugh. This is one of my favourite episodes. I may still...have a lot of issues. I fight a tear.

"Resistance is futile. Some have escaped."

Hugh says and I am once again astonished. WHAT? Was that a reference to Unimatrix Zero?

"They will be found. It is inevitable. All will be assimilated."

"Must Geordi be assimilated?"

"Yes."

"He would rather die than be assimilated."

"Then he will die." I say harshly

"No, Geordi is a friend. He must not die."

I see the conflict in him...I can't do this.

"You will assist us in assimilating this vessel. YOU WILL COMPLY."

"I Will Not."

There it is...undeniable. I stagger backwards.

"What?" I ask

"I will not assist you."

"But you are Borg..."

"I Am Hugh."

I let a tear trickle down my cheek and smile.

"Yes, yes you are. Hello Hugh, my name is Adam."

"Adam...will you help...me?"

"Yes."



Picard, Geordi, and Beverly gather in Picard's ready room as I explain to them my conversation with Hugh.

"You're all right of course, we can't introduce the virus. I think I chose not to talk to Hugh at first because if I did..." Beverly finishes my sentence for me.

"You knew that you would change your mind when you saw that he had reached individuality."

"Yes." I say ashamed.

"What will happen if we send him back to the Collective like he is now?" Beverly asks

"If everything proceeds as it did on the episode, then the Collective will simply retrieve Hugh, and his fellow drones, and absorb part---or even parts of his newly developed individuality. In theory at least. The alternative is that they simply re-assimilate him as usual and nothing happens."

"What if he doesn't want to go back?" she asks and I arch my eyebrow

Hugh is brought to the ready room.

Picard gives him his options but Hugh knows what he has to do . Geordi and Beverly attempt to convince him otherwise but Hugh understands. I approach him now.

"Are you sure you want to do this? The others are correct. We can protect you." He shakes his head

"No, you cannot. You out of everyone here know what will happen if I stay."

I nod. I AM LOCUTUS OF BORG. LOWER YOUR SHEILDS AND DISARM YOUR WEAPONS.

"Yes."

Sadly we take him back to the crash site, I request to go with Geordi and Beverly to say good journey to Hugh.

"It was my pleasure to get to know you a little bit Hugh. Good journey."

"Thank you Adam, thank...all of you."

The three of us go and hide. It takes a while before the Collective returns and we watch the Borg collect their fallen drones. I smile. Beverly catches this but doesn't say anything. They beam away.

"We should wait a little longer before beaming back up to the Enterprise, they may detect the transporter signal and attempt to investigate." I say and the two of the nod in agreement.

We huddle together as the planet is damned cold for about a hour or so before Geordi decides that's enough time and we're beamed back to the ship.