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Star Trek The Next Generation The Gift: A Star Trek SI
- Thread starter DarkDestroyer
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Chapter 57: I Can't Remember Anything Part One
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DarkDestroyer
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Author's Note: This was the chapter that took me the longest to write when I first did this story. It literally took me MONTHS (4 to be exact) to write this arc. I had to break up the episode and write it literally as if I had lost my memory. That was the intent behind it. I hope it translates! Enjoy!
I don't know who I am...nor do any of these other people I'm on this...ship with? We all look at one another with wariness, and suspicion. I immediately notice that I'm not wearing the same clothing as they are. They're all in uniforms. I'm not. A great panic threatens to take me over. Calm. Calm. We're on a starship, that much is obvious. A big one. I look at the main viewer and see empty space, the twinkling of nearby stars. Why am I on the bridge? There's discussion amongst the others. The big burly man with the silver metallic sash across his chest claims command. No one dares to oppose him. I am dismissed from the bridge as they note what I did, I'm not in uniform, thus I have no business being there. I have no where to go, I don't know WHERE to go so they grant me permission to be used as a runner.
The crew then breaks up to continue to find more information about what is going on, why we can't remember who we are. I start to wonder the ship. On a whim I decide to head to the school deck. Someone should see about the children. When I enter one of the class rooms...it is an older kids one, they must be high school students. They all rush to me with questions. I try my best to calm them down.
"I don't know what is going on any more than you do. As far as we can tell, every person on the ship has been affected by what is going on. None of us know who we are or what we're supposed to be doing. All of you remain here for now...I will remain here for as long as I can until we get more information."
I turn to the adult officer there. He's wearing a blue colored uniform and has a full silver pip with another pip empty. I have no idea what that means.
"I'm going to go check on the younger classes, see how everyone is, I'm guessing that you were a teacher, since you're the only adult here. I'll be back shortly." he nods in agreement
It takes me a little while, about a half a hour I'd guess, but I go door to door, classroom to classroom and try to assure everyone that everything will be okay and to stay put. When I return to the high school classroom, I tell the blue uniform to stay put as I report this to the bridge.
I return to the bridge and report that all the students are accounted for and are naturally scared. Someone explains to me that they have the computer up and running again and are going to conduct a biographical read out of the senior staff.
"Computer, give me a biographical read out of all ship's personnel responsible for the primary operations of this vessel." the big burly man booms
"A full biographical listing is not currently available."
That seems odd, even for our situation.
"Is there a list of the ship's senior officers?"
"The ship's manifest is available." the computer begins to read it out
"Commanding officer USS Enterprise NCC 1701-Delta, Captain Jean-Luc Picard." a picture is shown of the bald man in the red uniform with four pips on his collar.
The large man and bald man exchange glances with each other. They had an argument about who should be in command, the burly nods in deference to Picard...
"Executive Officer, Commander Kieran MacDuff." a man with a full set of brown hair and brown eyes who has been standing beside me this entire time exchanges glances with me.
"Second Officer, Commander William T. Riker." The Bearded Man
"Operations Manager Lt. Commander Data." Who is an android apparently
"Chief Medical Officer Doctor Beverly Crusher." the woman with red hair
"Ship's Counsellor, Lt-Commander Deanna Troi." The pretty woman with the long bouncy hair
"Chief Engineer Lt. Commander Geordi LaForge." The man with the weird metallic glasses
"Security Chief, Lt Worf." The burly man with the sash....bristles when he hears this and bows his head in what appears to be...shame?
"Helm Officer, Ensign Ro Laren." The pretty stern woman with the nose ridges who told me to get off the bridge
"Starfleet Special Advisor, Adam Christopher Young." A picture of me is shown....and everyone looks at me with an apologetic look.
The monitor goes blank as we all digest what we've just seen and heard. Picard turns to MacDuff.
"Commander, please see to it that all the bridge officers who were listed report to the bridge." Picard orders
"Aye sir." he heads off
Picard then turns to LaForge.
"Your top priority is to retrieve any information regarding the ship's systems. Contact the operations manager to assist you."
"You'll find him in Ten Forward...waiting tables." Ro snickers
Worf walks up to the Captain and apologies but Picard says it's water under the bridge, and he'd have assumed that Worf was the Captain too under the circumstances.
Author's Note: This was the chapter that took me the longest to write when I first did this story. It literally took me MONTHS (4 to be exact) to write this arc. I had to break up the episode and write it literally as if I had lost my memory. That was the intent behind it. I hope it translates! Enjoy!
I don't know who I am...nor do any of these other people I'm on this...ship with? We all look at one another with wariness, and suspicion. I immediately notice that I'm not wearing the same clothing as they are. They're all in uniforms. I'm not. A great panic threatens to take me over. Calm. Calm. We're on a starship, that much is obvious. A big one. I look at the main viewer and see empty space, the twinkling of nearby stars. Why am I on the bridge? There's discussion amongst the others. The big burly man with the silver metallic sash across his chest claims command. No one dares to oppose him. I am dismissed from the bridge as they note what I did, I'm not in uniform, thus I have no business being there. I have no where to go, I don't know WHERE to go so they grant me permission to be used as a runner.
The crew then breaks up to continue to find more information about what is going on, why we can't remember who we are. I start to wonder the ship. On a whim I decide to head to the school deck. Someone should see about the children. When I enter one of the class rooms...it is an older kids one, they must be high school students. They all rush to me with questions. I try my best to calm them down.
"I don't know what is going on any more than you do. As far as we can tell, every person on the ship has been affected by what is going on. None of us know who we are or what we're supposed to be doing. All of you remain here for now...I will remain here for as long as I can until we get more information."
I turn to the adult officer there. He's wearing a blue colored uniform and has a full silver pip with another pip empty. I have no idea what that means.
"I'm going to go check on the younger classes, see how everyone is, I'm guessing that you were a teacher, since you're the only adult here. I'll be back shortly." he nods in agreement
It takes me a little while, about a half a hour I'd guess, but I go door to door, classroom to classroom and try to assure everyone that everything will be okay and to stay put. When I return to the high school classroom, I tell the blue uniform to stay put as I report this to the bridge.
I return to the bridge and report that all the students are accounted for and are naturally scared. Someone explains to me that they have the computer up and running again and are going to conduct a biographical read out of the senior staff.
"Computer, give me a biographical read out of all ship's personnel responsible for the primary operations of this vessel." the big burly man booms
"A full biographical listing is not currently available."
That seems odd, even for our situation.
"Is there a list of the ship's senior officers?"
"The ship's manifest is available." the computer begins to read it out
"Commanding officer USS Enterprise NCC 1701-Delta, Captain Jean-Luc Picard." a picture is shown of the bald man in the red uniform with four pips on his collar.
The large man and bald man exchange glances with each other. They had an argument about who should be in command, the burly nods in deference to Picard...
"Executive Officer, Commander Kieran MacDuff." a man with a full set of brown hair and brown eyes who has been standing beside me this entire time exchanges glances with me.
"Second Officer, Commander William T. Riker." The Bearded Man
"Operations Manager Lt. Commander Data." Who is an android apparently
"Chief Medical Officer Doctor Beverly Crusher." the woman with red hair
"Ship's Counsellor, Lt-Commander Deanna Troi." The pretty woman with the long bouncy hair
"Chief Engineer Lt. Commander Geordi LaForge." The man with the weird metallic glasses
"Security Chief, Lt Worf." The burly man with the sash....bristles when he hears this and bows his head in what appears to be...shame?
"Helm Officer, Ensign Ro Laren." The pretty stern woman with the nose ridges who told me to get off the bridge
"Starfleet Special Advisor, Adam Christopher Young." A picture of me is shown....and everyone looks at me with an apologetic look.
The monitor goes blank as we all digest what we've just seen and heard. Picard turns to MacDuff.
"Commander, please see to it that all the bridge officers who were listed report to the bridge." Picard orders
"Aye sir." he heads off
Picard then turns to LaForge.
"Your top priority is to retrieve any information regarding the ship's systems. Contact the operations manager to assist you."
"You'll find him in Ten Forward...waiting tables." Ro snickers
Worf walks up to the Captain and apologies but Picard says it's water under the bridge, and he'd have assumed that Worf was the Captain too under the circumstances.
Last edited:
DarkDestroyer
The Destroyer Of Worlds
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It was a mistake. LOL. THIS was REALLY hard to write. I fixed it. Thanks for bringing it up.
Lillie Jones
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Thanks for the chapter
Chapter 58: I Still Can't Remember Anything Part Two
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All of us are called to the Conference Lounge, still with our memories affected. LaForge reports that they haven't been able to gather a full search of the computer records yet, but what they do have, is significant. The Android, Data, continues.
"This vessel is named the Enterprise. We are part of an organization called the United Federation of Planets. The Federation is currently at war."
Everyone, including myself visibly bristles. That doesn't sound right. I don't know why, but that creates a huge pit in my stomach.
"With whom?" Counsellor Troi asks
"The Lysian Alliance." Data replies
Who? I frown.
"They are a genocidal race determined to destroy us. The war has gone on for years." LaForge continues
"Starfleet Command believes the Lysians have built a new weapon that has shifted the balance of power in their favor."
That sounds a little convenient. None of this is sounding right to me at all. I look at the others to see their reactions, they're all uncomfortable, especially MacDuff who I have noticed has been even more visibly disturbed than we are. I am a people watcher by nature...or at least that sounds like something I would do. Something is wrong here, but I have no idea what.
"What do we know about this weapon?" Picard asks
"Our scientists theorize that the Lysians are using an energy wave, either plasma based, or a subspace interference pattern. The weapon seemingly disrupts a starship's computer systems, along with the mental capabilities of their crew."
"Exactly what has happened to us...anyone else find that HIGHLY suspicious?" I point out
"How so Mr. Young?" MacDuff asks
"We all wake up without having any memory of who we are, our computer systems are compromised, and we have information about a supposed war we're involved, and an enemy who possesses a weapon that does exactly what we are going through?" I reply
"Perhaps we were the first target of this new weapon?" MacDuff challenges
"It still seems too convenient to me, something about all this seems...wrong to me, Captain."
"I note your concern, Mr. Young. What exactly is the nature of our mission Mr. LaForge?"
"Yes sir."
He moves to the screen and enhances a grid on a star chart.
"We are approximately here. We've been ordered to cruise into Lysian territory and destroy their central command."
He points at a small dot a few parsecs away.
"This is it here. The nerve centre of their entire military operation."
Again this is convenient. Too convenient for me.
"Captain, there's been a great deal of damage done to our computer systems. I find myself agreeing with Mr. Young, maybe we're not getting the correct information." Troi says, I like this woman
"What are you saying?" Picard asks
"I think we should get confirmation of our orders from our headquarters." Troi finishes
"If we use subspace, we will be detected." Worf growls
"What if that's the enemy trying to make us think that?" I offer
"Our orders are to maintain radio silence." Again very convenient. Everything about this...feels wrong to me.
I lean back in my chair starting to get exasperated. I don't know why
"How does none of this strike any of you with how damned convenient any of this is? Their weapon. Their central command. The fact that we can't communicate, nor access our own computer files, all of this sounds damned wrong to me." I ask
Data interjects before MacDuff reprimands me.
"Our mission is part of a highly coordinated effort to put an end to the war. There are other vessels on the front lines, all working according to an intricate plan."
LaForge continues
"We're the linchpin to everything. If we don't destroy the central command, the entire effort will fail."
"He's right Captain, our choice is clear." Worf booms
Picard looks at Troi and I before making a decision and turns to MacDuff.
"Commander MacDuff, set a course for the Lysian High Command."
We're all dismissed.
All of us are called to the Conference Lounge, still with our memories affected. LaForge reports that they haven't been able to gather a full search of the computer records yet, but what they do have, is significant. The Android, Data, continues.
"This vessel is named the Enterprise. We are part of an organization called the United Federation of Planets. The Federation is currently at war."
Everyone, including myself visibly bristles. That doesn't sound right. I don't know why, but that creates a huge pit in my stomach.
"With whom?" Counsellor Troi asks
"The Lysian Alliance." Data replies
Who? I frown.
"They are a genocidal race determined to destroy us. The war has gone on for years." LaForge continues
"Starfleet Command believes the Lysians have built a new weapon that has shifted the balance of power in their favor."
That sounds a little convenient. None of this is sounding right to me at all. I look at the others to see their reactions, they're all uncomfortable, especially MacDuff who I have noticed has been even more visibly disturbed than we are. I am a people watcher by nature...or at least that sounds like something I would do. Something is wrong here, but I have no idea what.
"What do we know about this weapon?" Picard asks
"Our scientists theorize that the Lysians are using an energy wave, either plasma based, or a subspace interference pattern. The weapon seemingly disrupts a starship's computer systems, along with the mental capabilities of their crew."
"Exactly what has happened to us...anyone else find that HIGHLY suspicious?" I point out
"How so Mr. Young?" MacDuff asks
"We all wake up without having any memory of who we are, our computer systems are compromised, and we have information about a supposed war we're involved, and an enemy who possesses a weapon that does exactly what we are going through?" I reply
"Perhaps we were the first target of this new weapon?" MacDuff challenges
"It still seems too convenient to me, something about all this seems...wrong to me, Captain."
"I note your concern, Mr. Young. What exactly is the nature of our mission Mr. LaForge?"
"Yes sir."
He moves to the screen and enhances a grid on a star chart.
"We are approximately here. We've been ordered to cruise into Lysian territory and destroy their central command."
He points at a small dot a few parsecs away.
"This is it here. The nerve centre of their entire military operation."
Again this is convenient. Too convenient for me.
"Captain, there's been a great deal of damage done to our computer systems. I find myself agreeing with Mr. Young, maybe we're not getting the correct information." Troi says, I like this woman
"What are you saying?" Picard asks
"I think we should get confirmation of our orders from our headquarters." Troi finishes
"If we use subspace, we will be detected." Worf growls
"What if that's the enemy trying to make us think that?" I offer
"Our orders are to maintain radio silence." Again very convenient. Everything about this...feels wrong to me.
I lean back in my chair starting to get exasperated. I don't know why
"How does none of this strike any of you with how damned convenient any of this is? Their weapon. Their central command. The fact that we can't communicate, nor access our own computer files, all of this sounds damned wrong to me." I ask
Data interjects before MacDuff reprimands me.
"Our mission is part of a highly coordinated effort to put an end to the war. There are other vessels on the front lines, all working according to an intricate plan."
LaForge continues
"We're the linchpin to everything. If we don't destroy the central command, the entire effort will fail."
"He's right Captain, our choice is clear." Worf booms
Picard looks at Troi and I before making a decision and turns to MacDuff.
"Commander MacDuff, set a course for the Lysian High Command."
We're all dismissed.
Chapter 59: Yep. Still No Memory.
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DarkDestroyer
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After we're dismissed, I head back to the class rooms to see how things are progressing. The teachers who now have their names back, if not their memories, have managed to maintain order and gotten them sorted out as parents are being contacted. I head into the high schoolers room, I think it was Grade 12, and am introduced to the person I had contact with either.
"Lieutenant Junior Grade John Smith."
"It's a pleasure to meet you John. You can call me Adam. Everything seems orderly here."
"It's getting there. All the teachers are coordinating efforts into getting kids reunited with their parents, but it's taking a long time, so some of us have resorted to lesson planning...which of course has irked some of the students. Others though have welcomed the distraction."
"Drinks when this is over, and we get our memories back...hopefully?"
"I'd like that." I nod and satisfied that things are taken care of here leave
I step into what I have been told are my quarters, and don't recognize anything. There are PADD's scattered on the coffee table, and a couple are the floor. I see a sword mounted on one of the bulkheads. A picture of a blonde wearing a bikini on my desk, I don't recognize as I sit down on my chair and look at stuff. Another picture of a brunette in a civilian dress laughing on a planetary terrain I don't recognize at all.
"Computer, are you able to read out the service file on Adam Christopher Young yet?"
"Negative. Computer memory files have been restored to 30 percent."
Damn. The door chimes unexpectedly.
"Come in." I say
Ensign Ro enters. She's got a pair of boxing gloves slung over her shoulders she's holding with her fingers.
"Ensign Ro...what can I do for you?"
"Any luck on remembering anything?" she asks
"Unfortunately, no. You?"
"No, but I was curious that I found these in my quarters." she tosses me the pair of gloves and I catch them
"Boxing gloves?" I ask
"Look at the inside of the glove, both of them." she intones
I pull back the tag and see the letters ACY written in ink on them.
"My initials?"
"I assume so. I found them on my couch. What do you suppose that means?"
"I uh...I don't know. I guess I left them there?"
She wonders over and sits on the desk
"I got to thinking, if we box together...what other things might we have done together?" she's playful now. I'm uncomfortable
"I uh---I don't know if this is appropriate given the circumstances."
"Oh I disagree...I think this is the perfect opportunity for something like this to happen." she kisses me...I fight it at first, then relent.
We then start kissing heavily and begin to pull off each other's clothes before we make love on the carpet of my living room.
After we're dismissed, I head back to the class rooms to see how things are progressing. The teachers who now have their names back, if not their memories, have managed to maintain order and gotten them sorted out as parents are being contacted. I head into the high schoolers room, I think it was Grade 12, and am introduced to the person I had contact with either.
"Lieutenant Junior Grade John Smith."
"It's a pleasure to meet you John. You can call me Adam. Everything seems orderly here."
"It's getting there. All the teachers are coordinating efforts into getting kids reunited with their parents, but it's taking a long time, so some of us have resorted to lesson planning...which of course has irked some of the students. Others though have welcomed the distraction."
"Drinks when this is over, and we get our memories back...hopefully?"
"I'd like that." I nod and satisfied that things are taken care of here leave
I step into what I have been told are my quarters, and don't recognize anything. There are PADD's scattered on the coffee table, and a couple are the floor. I see a sword mounted on one of the bulkheads. A picture of a blonde wearing a bikini on my desk, I don't recognize as I sit down on my chair and look at stuff. Another picture of a brunette in a civilian dress laughing on a planetary terrain I don't recognize at all.
"Computer, are you able to read out the service file on Adam Christopher Young yet?"
"Negative. Computer memory files have been restored to 30 percent."
Damn. The door chimes unexpectedly.
"Come in." I say
Ensign Ro enters. She's got a pair of boxing gloves slung over her shoulders she's holding with her fingers.
"Ensign Ro...what can I do for you?"
"Any luck on remembering anything?" she asks
"Unfortunately, no. You?"
"No, but I was curious that I found these in my quarters." she tosses me the pair of gloves and I catch them
"Boxing gloves?" I ask
"Look at the inside of the glove, both of them." she intones
I pull back the tag and see the letters ACY written in ink on them.
"My initials?"
"I assume so. I found them on my couch. What do you suppose that means?"
"I uh...I don't know. I guess I left them there?"
She wonders over and sits on the desk
"I got to thinking, if we box together...what other things might we have done together?" she's playful now. I'm uncomfortable
"I uh---I don't know if this is appropriate given the circumstances."
"Oh I disagree...I think this is the perfect opportunity for something like this to happen." she kisses me...I fight it at first, then relent.
We then start kissing heavily and begin to pull off each other's clothes before we make love on the carpet of my living room.
Lillie Jones
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Chapter 60: Memory Is the Key Part IV
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In the morning Ro and I get dressed, I replicate us some food and we eat together.
"That was nice." I say
"It was okay...you need more practice." Ro replies bluntly
I blush.
"What happens, when we get our memories back? That's going to be awkward."
"We'll deal with it like adults I'd imagine. You didn't regret what happened?"
"Not at all. You?"
"I'm still here. This is good, even for replicated food."
"Thanks. I found it in the repeated menu. Lemon chicken, and pasta. I must either make it or order it a lot."
"It's delicious, if a little strange for breakfast."
"Everything's a little strange right now."
"So what do you think will happen today?" I ask
"I expect everyone will perform their duties, and that the Lysian Central Command will be destroyed." Ro says serious
"You don't feel like there's anything inherently wrong about this?" I ask her
"It's not my place to determine that or not. I fly the ship and that's that." she replies
I nod my head. We finish our meal in silence and then report to the bridge. Ro relives who is at the conn as I settle into the spot beside the third chair where Commander Riker is sitting. MacDuff is sitting on the other side of Picard.
"Captain, we've crossed over the Lysian border." Ensign Ro reports
"Take us out of warp Ensign. Reduce to a third impulse power." Picard orders
"Mr. Worf, maintain a continuous sensor sweep."
"Aye sir."
"How long until we reach their Central Command?" MacDuff asks
"At our current speed, approximately thirty seven hours." Data reports
That's longer than I expected.
"Captain, I am picking up a vessel directly ahead." Worf reports
Ah.
"Can you identify it, Mr. Data?" Picard asks
"The ship matches Starfleet's description of a Lysian destroyer. A short range attack vessel, with disruptor style weapons, and a standard crew of 53."
"Within vessel range."
"On screen."
"It's increasing speed, it's moving to intercept."
"Evasive maneuvers, sequence delta." Picard orders and Ro inputs the commands
"Yes sir, they're matching us."
I look over at Commander MacDuff, he is starting to look a tad agitated. He taps on his little side panel.
"Activating phaser arrays. Ready to fire sir." MacDuff reports
"Stand by." Picard orders
I was correct. MacDuff IS agitated.
"Captain our orders are to destroy all Lyrian destroyers." MacDuff says
"I'm aware of that Commander. Mr. Data, tactical analysis."
"The destroyer has minimal shields, their disruptor capability is two point one megajoules."
Riker sharply looks at the Captain.
"They're no match for the Enterprise." Riker snaps
This is wrong. All wrong.
"Sir, I would advise caution." I say to Picard he looks at me as does MacDuff with a nasty glare
"Captain, the destroyer is hailing us." Worf reports
"Open a channel." Picard replies
MacDuff suddenly stands up.
"No! Their new weapon! Whatever it was that erased the computer, and our memories, maybe this is how they do it. Over communications channels." he exclaims
"It is conceivable sir." Data reports
I shuffle uncomfortably in my seat. I don't like any of this. This isn't right. We're all missing something here.
"It's also possible that they simply want to talk to us sir." Deanna says next to me.
"I agree with the Counsellor sir. None of this has felt right to me since we learned about any of this. I think we should talk to them, Captain." I offer reinforcing the Counsellor's suggestion
"Captain, they are hailing again." Worf reports
MacDuff looks at Picard intensely.
"If you're wrong, it could mean our destruction. We can't take that risk, Captain."
"Captain, the Lysian's have stopped transmitting. They are powering up their disruptors. They have locked onto us." Data reports
"Full shields." Riker orders
"Shields up." Worf reports
"Captain?" MacDuff asks
"Return fire."
We fire back on them and their ship explodes. HOLY SHIT!!!
"The ship has been destroyed." Worf reports
"Maintain this course, Ensign. Three quarters impulse." Picard orders
"Well done, Captain." MacDuff says as I glare at him
In the morning Ro and I get dressed, I replicate us some food and we eat together.
"That was nice." I say
"It was okay...you need more practice." Ro replies bluntly
I blush.
"What happens, when we get our memories back? That's going to be awkward."
"We'll deal with it like adults I'd imagine. You didn't regret what happened?"
"Not at all. You?"
"I'm still here. This is good, even for replicated food."
"Thanks. I found it in the repeated menu. Lemon chicken, and pasta. I must either make it or order it a lot."
"It's delicious, if a little strange for breakfast."
"Everything's a little strange right now."
"So what do you think will happen today?" I ask
"I expect everyone will perform their duties, and that the Lysian Central Command will be destroyed." Ro says serious
"You don't feel like there's anything inherently wrong about this?" I ask her
"It's not my place to determine that or not. I fly the ship and that's that." she replies
I nod my head. We finish our meal in silence and then report to the bridge. Ro relives who is at the conn as I settle into the spot beside the third chair where Commander Riker is sitting. MacDuff is sitting on the other side of Picard.
"Captain, we've crossed over the Lysian border." Ensign Ro reports
"Take us out of warp Ensign. Reduce to a third impulse power." Picard orders
"Mr. Worf, maintain a continuous sensor sweep."
"Aye sir."
"How long until we reach their Central Command?" MacDuff asks
"At our current speed, approximately thirty seven hours." Data reports
That's longer than I expected.
"Captain, I am picking up a vessel directly ahead." Worf reports
Ah.
"Can you identify it, Mr. Data?" Picard asks
"The ship matches Starfleet's description of a Lysian destroyer. A short range attack vessel, with disruptor style weapons, and a standard crew of 53."
"Within vessel range."
"On screen."
"It's increasing speed, it's moving to intercept."
"Evasive maneuvers, sequence delta." Picard orders and Ro inputs the commands
"Yes sir, they're matching us."
I look over at Commander MacDuff, he is starting to look a tad agitated. He taps on his little side panel.
"Activating phaser arrays. Ready to fire sir." MacDuff reports
"Stand by." Picard orders
I was correct. MacDuff IS agitated.
"Captain our orders are to destroy all Lyrian destroyers." MacDuff says
"I'm aware of that Commander. Mr. Data, tactical analysis."
"The destroyer has minimal shields, their disruptor capability is two point one megajoules."
Riker sharply looks at the Captain.
"They're no match for the Enterprise." Riker snaps
This is wrong. All wrong.
"Sir, I would advise caution." I say to Picard he looks at me as does MacDuff with a nasty glare
"Captain, the destroyer is hailing us." Worf reports
"Open a channel." Picard replies
MacDuff suddenly stands up.
"No! Their new weapon! Whatever it was that erased the computer, and our memories, maybe this is how they do it. Over communications channels." he exclaims
"It is conceivable sir." Data reports
I shuffle uncomfortably in my seat. I don't like any of this. This isn't right. We're all missing something here.
"It's also possible that they simply want to talk to us sir." Deanna says next to me.
"I agree with the Counsellor sir. None of this has felt right to me since we learned about any of this. I think we should talk to them, Captain." I offer reinforcing the Counsellor's suggestion
"Captain, they are hailing again." Worf reports
MacDuff looks at Picard intensely.
"If you're wrong, it could mean our destruction. We can't take that risk, Captain."
"Captain, the Lysian's have stopped transmitting. They are powering up their disruptors. They have locked onto us." Data reports
"Full shields." Riker orders
"Shields up." Worf reports
"Captain?" MacDuff asks
"Return fire."
We fire back on them and their ship explodes. HOLY SHIT!!!
"The ship has been destroyed." Worf reports
"Maintain this course, Ensign. Three quarters impulse." Picard orders
"Well done, Captain." MacDuff says as I glare at him
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Chapter 61: Conundrum The Conclusion
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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
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
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Chapter 62: How The Fuck Did That Happen???
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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....
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....