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

[Goku_san]

I'm contemplating the idea. It probably won't happen though. The Prophets would be like...wait a minute....this might be a fun idea for a totally whacky, nonsensical SI.

Click to shrink...

Honestly, fuck the Prophets.

 

[DarkDestroyer]

Honestly, fuck the Prophets.

Click to shrink...

I agree but this is not really something that I want to explore in this.

Voyager is going to be dealt with, but maybe not so much how everyone will want it to be.

 

[DarkDestroyer]

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

Author's Note: I back home now. Surgery went very well. I'm doing well. Dealing with swelling and a very hoarse voice still and will still be for the next several weeks, but am doing great.



Data goes to work on creating the communication program...Dr. Stubbs is escorted to his quarters and ordered confined there for the duration of the attempt to talk to the nanites. Deanna goes to Stubbs to talk to him about his...hubris...while I remain on the bridge to continue to observe matters. The gamma pulse generators are on stand by if we need them. I see Wesley hovering around and head over to him.

"Hello Wesley."

"Hi Adam. It's nice to see you..."

"I know you're blaming yourself for what happened today, but don't worry. This will sort itself out. Everyone makes mistakes---especially when we're tired..." I say

"H-how...oh right. I need to learn to balance things a little better I guess."

"You'll get there. Have you spoken with your Mom yet?"

"Sort of...I was in the middle of almost telling her what happened when I kind of got angry..."

"I understand, it's been a tough year for you hasn't it? You've missed her."

"Yeah."

"Well, she's here now Wesley. Go easy on her...she loves you very much, and is very happy to be back home now."

He nods and the two of us stride towards Data to see him finish his programming. We don't go down to the computer core, since the nanites haven't counter-attacked and aren't aggressive due to Stubb's actions. Data successfully makes contact with them via the computer console and reports they continue to adapt quicker than he can anticipate. He's attempting to compensate with that. After a couple of minutes--the nanites are able to use Data as an avatar and address us directly.

"You are strange creatures..." they say slowly. Spiner's voice when he's "other characters" is so cheese it's CRINGE. Adam stop.

Captain Picard tells them that we have encountered even stranger creatures than them...and hopes that they will be able to achieve some kind of peace. I turn to him quickly.

"Ask them what they need, sir."

"What is that your people need from us?" asks Picard

"This ship is too...confining...we require...relocation." Picard turns to me

"Do you have any suggestions?"


I smile.

"I may have sir..."

With Dr. Stubbs help, the nanites are relocated to Kavis Alpha IV where they begin to create a new civilization there. Stubb's experiment is restarted and as I mentioned---goes off without a hitch.

I head to Ten Forward for the first time, and see Counsellor Troi who waves me over...Beverly is chatting with Guinan. Wesley enters, nods over to me and heads to a group of people in the corner and a young woman who he appears intimate with. I exchange a glance at Doctor Crusher and she mouths at me " Thank you." and I nod. It seems the two of them had their chat.

"Someone has had a busy first day." Deanna says

Our ordered meals are brought by the waitress.

"With Guinan's compliments to you both." she says as we thank her

"It was...exciting."

"You know not every day is going to be this exciting right?"

"I know...but even if this is what's like a fraction of the time I'm here...." I take a scoop of the mashed potatoes and eat it. Delicious.

"So...I thought you'd be interested to know that the three of us have made our decision regarding your...request."

I stop eating and wait with abated breath.

"And? What's the word?"

"After reviewing your psyche profile again, and talking amongst ourselves...it has been decided to put you on a limited training program. You mentioned Wesley's crash course...it will be similar to that but a lighter load at first. Commander Riker and I will design the curriculum and Captain Picard has decided to approve any such measures. To start it will be study heavy---we're concerned about your ability to grasp the scientific and mathematical elements---we're not so concerned about everything else. If you show us that you're able to handle this first phase--we'll proceed with a full curriculum."

"Thank you. So, so much. I promise that I won't disappoint any of you."


"I doubt that will be possible. I think you'll be more upset if you disappoint yourself. Adam....this will be...hard. Harder than you think. I remember my time at the Academy. It was the most challenging thing I've ever done. There were days where I wanted to quit...your will and determination will serve you well...but you need to be mentally prepared as well."

"I understand."


"I'm glad you enjoyed yourself. You did well today."

"Thanks. Also I've scheduled our counselling sessions for Tuesday at 14:00 hours. Does that work for you?"

"It does. I look forward to them."

We enjoy our dinner and chat for a couple of more hours before heading back to our quarters.

"I enjoyed this Counsellor."

"I told you, it's Deanna when I'm off duty. I enjoyed this as well."

"I'll see you Tuesday afternoon then. Have a good night."

I watch her leave and catch a glance from Guinan who simply similes at me. I need to make it a point to see her asap.

 

[lancelot]

"All of you seem so calm about my reveal...that you are in reality, fictional characters."

Click to shrink...

I'm sorry, but I'm playing from you just started reading this but I seriously think this needs an edit. You've made it very clear that your character is a serious sci-fi nerd, So he should know better than to say something so dumb if he knows anything about the idea of the multiverse, or omniverse, or whatever the hell you want to call it.

At worst he should say you're taking it very commonly that in my universe your fictional characters and I know so much about you. At best you should say that I'm surprised you're not reacting stronger to the fact that I'm from a completely different part of the multiverse and such a thing is now proven instead of simply being from a parallel timeline.

I would understand if this was like decades ago when the Internet was barely started but there's no excuse for saying that their fictional characters when you have so many different fictional examples of the multiverse.

 

[lancelot]

"First of all Mr. Young, I would like to formally welcome you to the 24th Century. This must be a confusing, and overwhelming experience for you. We do not understand how it is possible that you have entered our reality. There are no records of anything like this occurring in our reality, as no doubt I'm sure from yours. Secondly as we speak, less than a dozen people are aware of your presence in our reality. This of course includes the Federation President, members of my cabinet, and a couple of Councilor's from the Council. We would like knowledge of your presence to be as limited as possible, however are aware the longer you are here, that remains difficult to contain.

Click to shrink...

Sorry for the double post.

Another thing you should think about having an extra chapter between chapter one and chapter 2. Right now the only proof they have that you know about the future is that you mysteriously appeared when Q was screwing around and you said you know about their future.

There should be quite a bit of theorizing about whether or not you simply had your memory screwed with by Q and this is some kind of sick joke. Instead there should be a chapter where they ask you to basically prove and you recite some not top secret but very niche information about Starfleet. About the Omega particle, Something classified to happen recently like you know the whole body snatchers thing that happened at the end of season one.

Basically before the President of the United Federation of Planets is going to get involved, or multiple Starfleet Admirals. You need to put a Down payment on the table to show that you're not full of shit.

 

[DarkDestroyer]

Excellent points and when I was originally writing this, I did contemplate doing JUST that. I think though I excused that THIS particular time period of Starfleet would have let it slide. As opposed if he'd popped up at the start of the Dominion War or later, they'd have requested proof.


Anything BRAND new...I will go back and write up when I'm fully healed. So I'll take this into consideration. I also kind of intended the Threat Assessment and the Borg report to be the ultimate proof of SI Adam's "abilities".

 

[DarkDestroyer]

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

After Dr. Stubb's departs the Enterprise, and the nanites have been checked on that all is well with them in their new home, a welcome home party is thrown for Doctor Crusher in Ten Forward. I attend of course, dressed in my casual clothing that still gets glances from crewmembers and civilians alike. I REFUSE to wear clothing from this century until I'm forced to do so. It's sooooo tacky. Another reason why I prefer B5 to Star Trek in terms of fashion---at least JMS tried to make an effort to have fashion be realistic. Anyway I digress.

The atmosphere is jovial. Everyone but the Captain is present, he's still dealing with administrative details after the whole nanite situation, and will be here later on. Stellar cartography is all a buzz with Dr. Stubb's experiment...which as I mentioned I have only a rudimentary understanding of but no doubt it is spectacular. I see Geordi mingling with Sonya Gomez at a table. They both nod to me and I nod back. Commander Riker is chatting up B.G. Robinson which I make a note of. Wes is with that woman---still don't know her name since he hasn't introduced her, she was a blonde civilian I believe. Deanna and Beverly are sitting together chatting. I acknowledge them, while I head to the bar and Guinan greets me for the first time.


"Hello Guinian."

"What can I get you...Adam?"

Guinan. It's Guinan...in the flesh. Whoopi. Wearing her purple robe.

"I'll have an IPA please Guinan. It's nice to finally meet you---no it's an honor."

Guinan smiles that smile...this---this will never ever get old. Meeting your heroes in the flesh.

"I have over a dozen IPA's on tap...synthehol, and the real deal. What's your poison?"

"Whatever craft beer you have is great Guinan thank you."

She hands me the glass that looks like a beaker and I sip it...it's quite good. Real beer so I need to be careful.

"So...a reality hopper. I am told that you arrived last year shortly after our encounter with the Borg."

"That's right. I apologize that I haven't had a chance to speak with you sooner---but things have been a whirlwind."

"I figure you'd have come to see me when you had the chance. What do you think of all of this so far?"

"Philosophically or like in a general sense?"

"Generally speaking."

"It's both thrilling and overwhelming at the same time. Nearly every day I have a new experience that I otherwise wouldn't have...I'm still trying to adjust to this being...real."

"Yet you have. Remarkably so."

I look at her for a second. Right into her eyes and she allows me to. I am aware that I am having a conversation with an El-Aurian.

"You know...don't you? That I know? I know everything...almost."

" I know you know most things about me yes. You don't know everything though---not even my 23 husbands knew everything about me. "

We both laugh.

"So what do you think...about what I should or shouldn't do while I'm here?" I ask her

"I don't know you...yet. However in the little time that you've been on board the ship, you've made friends with key senior officers...conducted yourself in a professional manner, and are working diligently to gain Captain Picard's trust."

"Damn, you are good."

"As you know...I listen...and watch. I have known Jean-Luc Picard for a very long time. I am here as you are well aware because he trusts me, the two of us have an understanding. I also know how hard it is for the man to trust---he doesn't do so easily. However---there's something about you---you'll do the right thing. At least you think you will be doing the right thing."

"Is there any reason to believe that I am a danger to the ship or the crew?" I ask her

"If I believed that--Captain Picard would not have agreed to bring you back." she answers with a smile and I blanch

"You...you convinced him to have me back?." she nods slyly


"Guinan...have the two of us met before?" I ask

"Spoilers." she says deadpan but with a twinkle in her eye.

"H...how?" I ask. It isn't everyday someone shocks me, genuinely, but Guinan has done so just now. This should be impossible.

"That is for you to still figure out. I made a promise, and I keep my promises." she says still smiling

Those are my words. WHAT? About making promises. I use them when I make a promise to someone I care deeply about. WHAT?

"You convinced him to have me back based on a prior meeting the two of us had...that should be impossible. Even more impossible than me being here in the first place...also you just told me that you didn't know me..."

"I said that I don't know you...yet."

Wait. Are these Picard spoilers? My mind is wheeling right now. She hands me another beer. I gulp half of it real fast. Screw being careful.

"All I will say is that I know you were supposed to be here. I don't know why any more than you do. If I had any feeling that you may pose a threat, I wouldn't have vouched for you to Picard."

"I won't let you regret this decision Guinan, ever."

She just smiles. She knows. She knows how I evolve in this timeline, this reality. I'm absolutely bamboozled and in awe. I swear I see stars in her eyes. It could be the beer.

"I believe that you won't either. Enjoy the rest of the evening Adam, and if you ever need anyone to talk to---I'm always around."

I nod. Whoa.

 

[Lillie Jones]

Thanks for the chapter

 

[Marlow3]

Thanks for the chapters mate. I liked the interaction with Guinan. Very on point for her. Also the lack of him wearing the skant is a choice I agree with.

 

[DarkDestroyer]

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

I am still dealing with my conversation with Guinan. I meet her younger self in the past---in 2024. HOW is that even possible? I still don't understand how I am here, and I just learned that I am going to be HERE for a very long time...my head starts to hurt. I shake it off though as I beep Commander Riker's door chime and he tells me to enter. That will never get old for me. Hearing those sound effects. I step into his quarters and it's exactly like it is on the show. This is surreal-- He is sitting at his desk and his little monitor is open, he's touching the mouse thing.

"Mr. Young, have a seat."

There's a chair on the other side of the desk which I don't remember being in the series. He turns his lap top around to face me.

"Counsellor Troi and I have come up with a partial program for you to start with. This contains the basic core curriculum that every aspiring cadet takes in year one. Every single officer on this ship took the courses on the screen. These are all 101's. You'd be expected to get a passing grade on ALL of them. Failure on any one of them...you wash out."

I look at the course list.

"Admin 101 and 110, Starfleet Operations, Chain of Command and General Orders. Diplomacy 101. Engineering basic courses---This is basic?"

Riker grins that Frakes grin.

"Yep."

Languages, Law, Mathematics 101: Concepts, Physics 101: Concepts, Survival 101/110 ( I remember this from Sea Cadet Camp and hated survival training). I'm guessing this will involve the holodeck, a place I've not spent any time in really yet. The rest of the list is pretty standard stuff. The most difficult stuff for me is going to be the math and physics.

"So you think you can handle this load? I will be overseeing your progress and grading your performances as I do with Mr. Crusher. If you need one, I can recommend a tutor or two." he grins again

"This is going to be tough...but I need to know that I can do this."

Riker nods understanding.

"I'll forward you this to your terminal in your quarters along with a schedule. Right now I think you can probably handle a 12 hour day...I'll balance out some of the courses. NOT all of these will be done at once...you'll be doing a rotation of six on a three month basis, and we'll adjust that based on how you do."

"Understood."

"This will start on Monday...so you have until then to prepare for it."

"Aye sir."

"Good luck Mr. Young. I hope you do well."

"So do I sir, so do I."

I desperately want to ask him about B.G. Robinson but probably not an appropriate thing to say or do right now when he's giving me my course list.

"Is that all sir?"

"It is. A bit of advice, Mr. Young?"

"Of course."

"Enjoy it. Not just the courses, but all of this. However you came to be here, you are here. You've been given something that no other human has experienced before in recorded history---that makes you unique. It makes THIS experience SPECIAL. Try to have fun while you're here."

I smile now and relax.

"I will sir. It's still...mind blowing. I can't believe any of this is happening. Counsellor Troi thinks I've been adapting well so far, so did Counsellor Xing at Starfleet, they've been worried that I might develop some kind of...what was the word? Depersonalization...but I'm mostly just mind boggled about everything. It is difficult to accept that this is...my home now."

Riker nods.

"You're a real life Captain America, Mr. Young. A fish out of water sort to speak. It will take you time to adjust, but you will. We've all read your profile, you wouldn't be on this ship if we didn't think you could handle it."

That reminds me of something. I should have thought of them before, when I got to Earth.

"I do have a question sir, I just thought of."

"Yes?"

"The people you revived from cryo stasis just before the Romulans remerged...was there ever any follow up done on them?"

Riker leans back in his chair and tugs the bottom of his uniform, starts to stroke his beard.

"If I recall correctly, the former businessman, Offenhouse was special attaché to the Ferengi Alliance and helped facilitate the recent trade deals with them. He was heavily involved in the recent Slug O'Cola announcement. Clemonds is a singer of some note...and Clare...the last I heard she had tracked down her family in Indianapolis. "

I nod.

"You thinking of contacting them?"

"They're the only others who are like me...I should have thought about them when I first arrived...but everything's been a roller coaster. They're the only ones who might understand what I'm going through right now."

Riker nods

"I understand, just be careful Mr. Young. Go slow with everything."

"Aye sir."

I turn and leave. Offenhouse becoming involved in Ferengi affairs makes me giggle.

 

[Lillie Jones]

thanks for the chapter

 

[Marlow3]

That totally fits, so nice touch with the other fish out of water there especially the ferengi.
Thanks for the chapter

 

[DarkDestroyer]

Thanks everyone. We're largely done with the long prologue. We're going to be getting into the main story now that SI Adam is aboard the Enterprise. Lots of interesting stuff planned as teased by the conversation with Guinian.

 

[DarkDestroyer]

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

I attempted to make contact with the three...sleepers, but was unsuccessful. Offenhouse is still off world, and I left a message with his secretary---because of course he already has himself a secretary or assistant. I make a point to invest in Slug O'Cola as well. Clemonds is on a big galactic tour---his first. His manager said she would tell him about me, and Clare's family didn't answer. So I will make another attempt. The next few days are busy as I delve into my studies. Most of my day is occupied with study, which I don't mind. It means I have mostly peace. So far my favourite courses are the Starfleet ones. Learning how things work is one of my FAVOURITE things in the world, so this is like the ultimate nerd stuff right now for me. I absorb information like a Spongebob---err sponge. My off time is the evening time, or Charlie Shift as it is known here. Data has assumed command of the ship as Captain Picard has ends his daily shift and the ship lights dim as we're in evening time. It is my favourite time of the day. Most of the senior staff are off right now. I have taken to spending most of my time in Ten Forward. As a people watcher, it's the best place to hang out and see what the vibe of the ship is on any given day. No wonder this was given to Guinan---it's a perfect place to watch---and listen. Aside from the bridge and Main Engineering, which are buzz points, this really is the heart of the ship. EVERYONE comes to Ten Forward to wind down or just hang out with each other at some point during the day. It's nearly ALWAYS busy here. Guinan has quite the staff too as I've learned. About six waiters that roam around the room every once in a while.

I have been invited to attend Data's violin concerto...if I remember correctly, they're playing the "Allegro" from Mozart's "Eine..." I accept knowing Data's hesitation and Picard's encouragement, and the fact that it gets interrupted. It is a string quartet that he's apart of. I look around the room and observe everyone talking in their various clusters. Couples. Groups. Friends. The buzz is amazing. It is simply amazing being here. I can not over stress how much I am loving being here, but how overwhelming it is as well. I spot Diana Giddings sitting with a group of medical personnel and engineering staff. Sonya is there and waves at me. I wave back. I'm becoming a bit of an oddity here now as officers begin to recognize the mysterious "Special Civilian Advisor". Diana catches my eye and smiles and I nod back at her. I take a swig of my beer. I then see a blue uniform suddenly stand in front of me. I glance up and it is Dr. Selar with a PAAD.

"Mr. Young." she states

"Dr. Selar...what can I do for you?" I ask as I stand up

"Doctor Crusher asked me to give you this. It is a full list detailing all of the exercises she discussed with you prior, as well as the nutritional plan you agreed on with her."

I take the grey tablet like device and look at it.

"This checks out...but isn't this a nurse thing?" I ask her. Selar locks her hands behind her back, I watch for a reaction, but she doesn't give me any. No sell. Like a Vulcan.

"Normally yes, however..."

"However you have been curious about me ever since that first examination last year and wanted to...examine me yourself?" I ask rather cheekily. Don't push things Adam. You don't know her at all.

She arches her eyebrow and nods.

"That is an adequate if crude assessment, yes. May I join you, Mr. Young?" she asks

"I thought you'd never ask, please sit."

Selar sits

"Anything to drink?" I ask

"I will have a Raktajino." she replies, naturally being a medical professional.

A waiter comes by and I ask for another beer, and a Raktajino for Selar. So...this is interesting.

"So...how may I...satisfy your curiosity Dr. Selar?"

I interlock my fingers

"I would ask permission to observe your daily duties. I realize this is an unusual request. I have read all your profiles. I find you to be, most fascinating. Unlike anyone else on this vessel." she states

It is my turn to eyebrow arch now, which I botch horribly as usual. This is indeed unusual, but I'm curious as hell now...

"What would be the exact nature of these...observations? Are you asking me out or something?" I'm genuinely confused

"This is purely scientific interest I assure you. I would be observing your daily routines, ask you questions..."

I hold up my hand.

"Okay, slow down. I'm all for science, but I'm not a guinea pig. I already went through this deal for three weeks straight at Starfleet Command, and I didn't like it. I understand your intent, but have no interest in having you be a silent observer with my daily routines. If you want to sit down and talk to me about my experiences back in my reality or whatever, great. If you want to have dinner...I'll make you my lemon pasta, but I am afraid that I'm not interested in being...watched...just to satisfy someone's curiosity. Been there, done that."

Selar takes this in stride and then surprises me.

"Your offer of dinner intrigues me. I would accept that."

"Oh. Okay. Um....how about tomorrow night, 20:00 hours, uh, my quarters?"

I'm frankly not used to...being accepted. Let's leave it at that.


"That is acceptable."

We then have small talk for a little while longer before she gets up and leaves. I watch her as she strides out of Ten Forward.

"Vulcans..." I Mutter


Next Up: FIRST MISSION!

 

[War Sage]

Female vulcans for the win lol

But yea as a doctor there would certainly be interests in observing an augment there daily interactions and routine compared to regular humans

Also Augments and Vulcans jut natural lol

 

[DarkDestroyer]

Paramount-SkyDance Own Star Trek. For Entertainment Purposes Only. Non-Profit.
I enter my quarters and toss off my boots and take off my jacket and toss it on the back of my desk chair and plop down face first on the sofa---like Venkmen in "Ghostbusters II'.

I've been back two months, and already am exhausted. It is late Feburary 2366...the business with the Shielak was a few weeks ago. Captain Picard was confounded by them as most diplomats have been for decades...until I decided to put him out of his misery and suggest recommending a third party mediator to resolve their issue, which was buying the colonists more time to evacuate. I briefly considered dealing with the colonists but thought better of that...I'm not equipped to handle situations like that at all. Picard comes to that conclusion himself, but that saved him hours of studying which I think he was grateful for.

My sessions with Deanna have been...helpful. We talk about everything basically...or as much as I allow. She's discovered my "personal shields" now. She knows that I have barriers up and has been very quietly trying to break them down, I know it's Deanna Troi...I know I can trust her, but I've never been good at confiding in others---it's always the other way around. Deanna's also discovered my empathic side---I don't have full on "abilities" like she does---but I do sense powerful emotions and they do affect me. Selar and I have started...dating? Courting definitely. I don't have anything else except my relationship with Elizabeth to compare it to so it's the strangest and also the best thing that's happened. Selar is absolutely fascinating as one would expect to discover. We talk for hours. About everything, and anything. I never thought I'd be courting a Vulcan. It is interesting because I found out that Selar has an elder brother named Voltak---in this reality, but in the novels, Voltak was her first husband who died during a freak Pon'Farr bonding session went awry. He is still an archeologist and often is off world, they have little communication with one another. Her parents...T'Prya and Voltik work at one of the Vulcan rehabilitation center's. She was born in the city of Raal. She has taken a fascination in me that I wasn't anticipating. I bluntly asked about Pon'Farr...and Selar stated that she last experienced Pon'Farr in 2361...so the next time won't be for two years. So she's genuinely curious about me. I am satisfied with that for now.

The studying has been...exhausting. 12 hours a day, five days a week. I have the weekends off. Wes has offered to help tutor me and I accepted his offer. Just as I am about to pass out---

"Crusher to Young."

"Young here, go ahead Doctor."

"Adam can you please report to Sickbay--something's wrong with Deanna."

I suddenly hear Help Meeeeee!

Oh shit. Uxbridge.

Kevin Uxbridge...I haven't thought about this episode in a LONG fucking time. I enter sickbay and Deanna is screaming. Riker is there. Crusher and Ogawa are trying to stabilize her. Riker looks at me with an expression on his face I've never seen before---horror. I share it but I try and compose myself.

"What's her status?" I ask, almost command

"Counsellor Troi reported having headaches a few hours ago. I ended up giving her a general analgesic for it...but it seems to have increased in intensity and two hours ago she came in---like this."

"Do you know what's happening to her Adam?" Will asks

"I'm afraid that I do, sir." I tap my comm badge

"Young to Captain Picard."

"Picard here go ahead."

" I am in sickbay with Counsellor Troi---I know what is causing her ailment and how to resolve it. I request permission to accompany you down to the planet surface."

There's a pause.

"For what purpose?" Picard asks

"Have we already made contact with the Uxbridges sir?"

"We have, yes. They have refused to beam up to the Enterprise---there was an--"

"I'm sorry sir but that ship is an illusion...as is Rishon herself. The problem is Kevin, and I think I may know how to resolve it, with your permission of course."

Deanna wails. If you can hear me Deanna, everything will be okay soon. I promise you.

"Very well, report to Transporter Room 3."

"Aye sir."


I look at the others with determined purpose. This universe is restoring my confidence.

"This will be over shortly. I promise." and I head out of sickbay and walk towards the transporter room.

I head into the Transporter Room where Captain Picard is there as is Worf looking concerned. Miles is tending the console. I haven't formally met him yet, which I need to make a point of doing soon.

"We won't need phasers sir, even as a precaution."

"I INSIST. " growls Worf and hands us both one of them. My phaser training has started as of a couple of days ago. I'm still getting used to holding a REAL phaser. He gives me a holster and I clip it on to my pants.

"I agree with Mr. Worf, you may know what situation we're going into Mr. Young, but I don't...and if this goes badly..."

"I understand sir. Thank you Worf." he nods

"What is your plan Mr. Young?" Picard asks

"Simple enough really...Uxbridge is an alien called an Douwd...he possesses tremendous psychic abilities---that is what is causing Deanna to experience her headaches. He's using some kind of psychic dampener device to block her empathy---I think it does something to increase pain every time she attempts to use it, even as a defense mechanism. He's...experienced a great deal of tragedy and is punishing himself for his...crimes. We need to convince him to lift the dampener and make him a promise that he'll be left alone...he wants to be punished--he'll ask you to do it---but that's not what we do--so the next best thing is to promise him that he'll be left alone and that this place will be quarantined."

"Very well. Your first away mission then Mr. Young."

"Aye sir."

"Nervous?"

"A little bit."

"Just follow my lead and you'll be fine."

"Aye sir."

"Energize Mr. O'Brien."


I'll never get used to the sensation nor the physics of transportation, nor do I want to discuss it at all. Picard and I touch down on the planet's surface and it looks exactly like it does from the episode. This is Talosian or Species 8472 level of bamboozlement. It is extremely impressive, right down to cellular levels. He probably knows that we're approaching. I stand beside Captain Picard and brace myself. I wasn't kidding. I am nervous as fuck right now. I have no idea if this is gonna work and phasers are for sure aren't gonna help us much if this goes south. There is HIGH potential for getting TOSSED.

We approach the house...again all the detail is incredible. I'm still trying to focus on the job at hand and remind myself that I am now apart of this, not merely an observer. I have responsibilities to myself and to Captain Picard. Picard knocks on the door and to his surprise, Rishon answers, and invites us in for tea. I am introduced and immediately Kevin becomes hostile but I wave my hand to Picard telling him that I have this.

"Mr. Uxbridge...my name is Adam Christopher Young, I am a Special Civilian Consultant attached to the Enterprise. I only intervene on behalf the Captain under certain special situations like this one. I am...aware of your---secret---your burden. I know what and why you've done all this, and I ask that you relieve our friend of her pain."

"How could you possibly know...ah. You're a reality hopper."

"Yes sir. I know what you've done, the pain that you are in, and what you want the Captain to do...but you must know deep down that we can't do any of that. We can't act as your judge, jury, and executioner....I think punishment enough is that you remain here, left alone---and I can assure you that you will undisturbed while you are here. But our friend is in great pain, and only you can remove the dampener you're using to block her empathic and telepathic receptors."

Uxbridge looks at me like I'm an alien...and he wouldn't be wrong. Uxbridge then turns to Captain Picard.

"I am sorry---I tried to lure you away---so that you wouldn't discover the truth."

"Mr. Young is correct, sir. The Federation is not qualified to judge you, much less humanity as a whole...however I can make it so that you aren't disturbed if that is what you want. We just ask that you help our friend."

It is interesting the dialogue isn't exact all the time. I wonder what is altering it other than my memory? Rishon vanished quicker than in the show as well. Is this already some kind of effect of my butterflying? The universe adjusting and correcting things as I...influence them?

The three of us beam aboard the Enterprise and Kevin removes the block from Deanna's head...and has his conversation with Doctor Crusher in his quarters. Picard is as good as his word as he contacts Starfleet and requests that Rana IV be placed in quarantine and reinforced with defensive buoys which are deployed before we depart the planet.

A little bit later on I visit Deanna in her quarters, she's still resting in her bed. She looks lovely...compose yourself fool. Deanna smiles as she sees me enter her room.

"I just wanted to check on you."

"Thank you."

"You're more than welcome Counsellor...I heard you...I'm sorry that I didn't respond to this sooner..."

"You are going to make mistakes attempting to butterfly things, Adam. Even you can't magically erase things that are going to happen...that did happen to us."

"I should be able to. Why am I here if not to do exactly that?" The sheer power of this is so...tempting. Emperor Young....in the back of my head. The ability and power to reshape--

"That is a dangerous line of thought Adam, you know that. I don't think you would ever act on those impulses, you're too kind, and too responsible a person." Deanna says. I forget she can read my thoughts.

"I can't read full thoughts...but the emotion behind them as you well know."

"How am I able to hear you? I thought only...bonded empaths could do that? You and Will..." she blushes

"Yes Will and I can do that because of our intimate past...but you have partial empathy...your ability to listen to others, really listen to others concerns...opens you up like a receptor. Perhaps in your reality there was no outlet for this---but since you're here..."

"And been in close proximity to a partial telepath with strong empathic abilities?" I smile

"Yes. Perhaps. It is something we should talk about in future sessions." I nod

"Anything you need, whenever you need it---I will be there if I can. That's a promise." I say and Deanna flushes again

"Your emotions betray you Adam...I'm flattered but."

"I understand Deanna. Plus I have Selar right now...and that's challenge enough, I Just want you to know that you are protected if you need it. Always." I stop short from saying the thing that I want to her, but she gets the point. She nods and I turn around to leave.

This has begun a powerful bond between us that will never be broken.

 

[War Sage]

Hell yes Selar baby

I will say, a bit curious how this will go as for Adam courting a Vulcan will certainly be interesting lol

 

[Dissimilate]

Thanks for the chapter. I am also curious about Selar and how this will go with her.

 

[DarkDestroyer]

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

Selar and I's relationship progresses. People make the common mistake of thinking that Vulcans do not posses, emotions. This is incorrect. They are in fact one of the most passionate peoples in the galaxy...they CONTROL their emotions out of necessity. They FEEL so much that out of control, they are incredibly destructive. Selar has been teaching me Vulcan history and man...while we're fucked up at the point of origin where I come from---we've experienced a microcosm of violence compared to the Vulcans. It is no wonder that they put it upon themselves to police the galaxy. They know what true destructive power can do.

Anyways...the passion is there, so is the love. In fact is a POWERFUL love...that can be overwhelming...and despite my...inexperience...Selar has been...ahhhhh..teaching me a whole lot. I'm happy, and I am pleased that I...fascinate her. That is contentment enough for me.


"Who Watches the Watchers" happens as it does largely in the episode proper. Nothing I can really do here and if I insert myself here I could REALLY complicate matters more for the Mintakans who already think Captain Picard was a god, if they see me---that's a whole other can of worms no one wants to touch on. The incident with Marla Aster doesn't occur as I recommend to Picard that the away team doesn't investigate the ancient ruins.

"Why?" He asks annoyed that I've now interfered in a personnel decision

"Because Lt. Aster will be killed when she accidently steps on a mine. Worf will blame himself, and Jeremy Aster will be made an orphan." I state seriously

Picard places down the PADD hard on his table and glares at me sternly.

This is our first argument. It won't be our last.

"You are not a normal civilian. Out of anyone on this ship, you understand the risks that we as Starfleet officers take. We all do once we put on this uniform---the Lt---" I stop him before he carries on with his speech.

"Sir---how did you feel when you brought back Jack's body to Wesley and Beverly?" He now has that angry look

"How dare you." he whispers in that classic breathless Stewart barely controlled anger

"It's the same thing sir. I apologize for the bluntness, but you were about to justify making a child, an orphan for the good of DUTY! I will not, and can not allow that. What am I on board for---if not to enact THIS kind of change? I can save a family sir. Please don't stop me due to lectures of duty!"

Picard sighs, straightens his uniform and looks at his port behind the desk. The stars twinkle against the black blanket of space.

"I remember bringing Jack home, and Beverly's reaction----Wesley was still so little, so small. I was...numb inside. In disbelief over what happened and couldn't properly mourn with them, or for them. I didn't allow myself to feel what I should have, my best friend was dead and I was in shock." Picard reveals

"I know sir....I'm sorry. Jack...Jack sounds like he was a wonderful man." I reply


"He was the best. You know of him so they must've shown him or had some reference to him on the show, but he really was the best of all of us. The glue that held us together. I still miss him, very much, he would have liked you, especially for pushing me...but Mr. Young?"

"Yes sir?"

"Don't make a habit of it."

"Aye sir."

Warning noted. He sighs again.

"What is that you want me to do Mr. Young?"

"There's an entity on the planet...a remnant of the species that used to be there, it is empathic in nature. It takes Marla's form after her death...tries to comfort the boy...but it kind of backfires and Troi and yourself explain death to it---the theme of the episode is---"

"How we deal with death...I understand." He grins.

"Yes sir. I recommend that we have the planet quarantined. If you wish I can explain---"

"That won't be necessary Mr. Young. I will explain to Starfleet what we've discovered here as well as your recommendation for the planet." He taps his badge

"Picard to Riker."

"Riker here."

"The away mission to the planet is cancelled until further notice number one. Absolutely under any circumstances is any one to beam down to the planet, we're placing it under quarantine based on Mr. Young's recommendation."

"Aye sir."

"Thank you Captain." I say

"You just saved a young man's mother, Mr. Young, you should be very proud."

"Thank you sir. I'd like to speak to them if I could."


He nods.

"I'll arrange that with Counsellor Troi. If there's nothing else you're dismissed."

"Aye sir."

Deanna introduces me to Lt. Astra and Jeremy. Marla gives me a big hug, and I awkwardly hug her back.

"Thank you, for what you did. I don't understand what you can do, but thank you for saving me."

"You are most welcome ma'am."

"Jeremy, this is Mr. Young he---"

"You saved my mom."

He hugs my legs and I hug him around his shoulders. I try not to cry. THIS is why I am here. This is the Gift.

"You're both very welcome. I couldn't allow what was meant to happen---happen. No one deserves to be parentless."

"You're welcome here any time Mr. Young...perhaps for dinner?"

"I'd like that thank you."

Deanna and I turn to leave, and outside their quarters I put my hand up against the bulk head and allow myself to cry. Deanna reaches around my shoulder and squeezes me.

"You did a good thing Adam. You kept a family together."

"I-I know."

 

[War Sage]

Ironically more interested in the Adam and Selar relationship then the episode

 

[Lillie Jones]

thanks for the chapter