The Intwined Saga

The white sand beaches of Risa usually provided some sense of quiet joy. S'ynek now known as T'oi of Vulcan enjoyed what humans called "Boy Watching." The variety of attractive male Humans, Trill and Betazeds never failed to cheer him. But today none of the selection of handsome men brought the usual smile to his face. The smile which made T'oi highly unusual for a Vulcan. Choosing at an early age to forsake the teachings of Surek, T'oi had chosen to break his arranged marriage and not complete the Pon Farr ritual with a Vulcan girl of good family, a match that would have made his father feel satisfied with his son. This choice was what had driven young S'ynek into Starfleet.

Prejudice was illogical, at least this was what his father had always said, but when young S'ynek broke from Vulcan tradition, choosing to express his emotions and his orientation toward males his father had gently suggested his home planet might not be the best place for him. So young S'ynek, scientist and scholar had chosen to request a slot at Starfleet Academy. It was there S'ynek had found a home and was given the freedom to be that smiling, laughing and passionate Vulcan.

...and now that father, who patiently tried to understand his unorthodox son was dying of Bendai Syndrome....

Rational facts...something that comforted other Vulcans...provided no satisfaction to T'oi. It was time to trade Risa's white sand beaches for the arid deserts of Vulcan and face his inner demons and provide some comfort to his father.

(cont)

(cont)

...the USS Carl Sagan spoke a language like no other starship T'oi had ever commanded. His keen Vulcan hearing allowed him to hear the hum of the sensors in one harmonic, the chirps from the comm station at another, the aggressive growl of the Borg subtranswarp engine, and the constant sound of that part of the collective cut off from from the main Borg hive mind at the low end from the assimilated console. His XO, Commander Umax had the conn. Other Starfleet vessel commanders called the Sagan, the "ship of misfit toys" in private. Always said with a degree of envy of T'oi, whose reputation as a commander of a diverse group of department heads had grown in proportion to his rank. Umax was in the first cohort of Ferengi command crew in Starfleet. T'oi had his command crew files out. Umax was well prepared for a ship of his own and a promotion to Captain, T'oi made some notes on his PADD and added his endorsement to Umax's file recommending that very thing. The rest of the command crew was equally well qualified. But T'oi could not give their files the attention they were due. Course laid in to Vulcan, Umax to to take command of the Sagan while he took care of his father. T'oi tapped his commbadge to summon his Yeoman.

"T'oi to Shras."

"Yes, Admiral?"

"Would you come to my ready room? I am finsihed with Commander Umax's file."

"Aye, sir."

The handsome Andorian Yeoman, knowing T'oi's habits walked in less than a minute later.

"Your instructions before you debark on Vulcan, sir?"

"Umax's file needs to be cc'ed to the Chief of Starfleet Personnel marked 'Special attention: Commanding Admiral.' A brief note over my signature, Shras. Quote: 'Get off your lazy ass, Sir, and give my XO his own ship, I recommend him for promotion to Captain unreservedly. You still owe me a bottle of good Earth red, you lazy sot. Best, T'oi."

"The other command personnel files need to be reviewed by Commander Umax with his endorsements due when I return. We need a new ship's counselor with Lt. Commander Weston's promotion and transfer. Take your time and find me the best available, Shras."

"Aye, sir."

"Shras?"

"Yes, sir?"

"Has your second husband, Syee settled in well?"

"Yes, sir...thank you sir. I didn't know you paid attention to my bond mates."

"I make it a habit to know my crew and their mates, Shras. We are...an unusual ship with an unusual reputation for high performance. Crew morale is a responsibility I take seriously. Surely you did not think that you were a random choice, Chief Yeoman?"

If an Andorian could blush, Shras would be blushing. "I'm sorry sir, most Captains don't get into the habit of knowing in detail the lives of their crew."

"I am not 'most Captains' Chief," T'oi said with a smile. "The morale of my crew is my top priority. You need to spend some more time with your bondmate, Shras. When you are finished with this task, tell Petty Officer Hart you are taking the rest of the day off, on my orders...and Shras?"

"Yes, sir?"

"Do something romantic, no excuses, you haven't seen each other in months, that's an order."

Shras grinned from ear to ear, "Aye aye, sir."

T'oi smiled as his young Chief Yeoman practically bounced out of his ready room. Romance...he thought, was the chief emotion that Vulcans missed out on by rigidly keeping their emotions in check. This is the cruelty of Bendai Syndrome, stripping down years of walls and laying a Vulcan's private emotions bare.

Walking over to his ready room window, T'oi stared out into the inky blackness...four hours....four hours...

(cont)

(cont)

...Dressed for the desert in his Vulcan robes, S'ynek looked at the blue and white Vice-Admiral's uniform laying on his bed, neatly arranged waiting for his return. Only two required pieces of his current life would go with him when he beamed down. His commbadge and a very small holdout stunner that he would never need. Staring at the bed it occurred to S'ynak that his bed was too large, he hadn't taken a lover in a long time, and the room for a second man is his bed was like an open wound...aching. Admirals lived a lonely existence and for all of his care and concern about his crew, T'oi kept his own counsel when it came to his personal life. The bartender of ten-forward was an El-Aurian and he could tell she was...concerned about his personal welfare. The El-Aurians were an old and powerful race, scattered because of the Borg, subtle and always more knowlegeable than they ever admitted, it occurred to S'ynak the she could see right through his facade.

Walking into the transporter room, the brief echo of the deep desert call of Pon Farr roared through his blood, struggling to master the unexpected passion and physiological need his body was crying out for, he walked onto the transporter platform a little unsteadily. He had gone too long without a lover, and he feared it might make his father even more unsteady in his presence.

"Chief Kinson, lock in coordinates I provided and notify Vulcan and Starfleet Command of my arrival on Vulcan. Nature of visit: Personal Family Business. Log that at this time Commander Umax is in command of the Carl Sagan. Energize."

Rematerializing in his family's private transporter alcove brought S'ynak back to the day he left for Starfleet Academy. He made his decision to take his father's advice in this very room, the central family room of the estate. His mother always made sure it was immaculate, decorated in golds and the burnt orange that reminded him of his childhood and the couches arranged in a neat square so everyone could talk to each other, she still looked the same except she was grayer. Hand automatically going up in the Vulcan greeting, "Live, long, and prosper, Mother."

"Peace and long life, my son."

"How is Father?"

"He cried and moaned in his sleep last night, S'ynek...and he called out for you. I have not told him I heard it, I think he would not take such things well in his fragile emotional state."

"I agree. You look well, Mother...you are bearing his illness...rationally?"

"No my son, I am not. How do you bear these feelings I am forced to feel? His proximity and his emotions...are painful."

"I bear these emotions mother, because they are part of me. You know I have never believed Surek wanted our people to forsake our emotions to the degree we as a people attempt to do. I express these emotions because they make me a Vulcan, not some raving barbarian. I control the destructive emotions because they are cruel and senseless. But to ruthlessly eradicate all expression of my feelings would deny you, my friends and those that mean the most to me, the core truth about me."

"You seem at peace my son, your father awaits you in his study."

"Thank you, mother." Hesitating, "Mother?"

"Yes, S'ynek?"

"Is father proud of me?"

"Yes, my son, he is and so am I. Now go to him while he still has control, it will be harder later."

S'yned turned towards the study door, within his first step the sudden roar of Pon Farr descended upon him, leaving him within in bare moments of total loss of control. Dropping to his knees, the images of the man returned to him, just peeking around the corner of his sanity. With a great effort, S'ynek mastered his control.

"My son are you alright?"

"I am fine, mother. Father had a bad moment I was not prepared for."

The lie tasted like ashes, but he could not very well tell his mother he was having Pon Farr flashes about a man he had only seen briefly from afar. It was difficult enough for him without bringing his mother into it. Taking a shaky breath, S'ynek walked carefully into his father's study.

"Welcome, my son...as you might know...I am not well...."

(cont.)

(cont)

Stepping into his father's office, S'ynek saw the spartan computer work terminal and desk made from Andorian woods that soothed his father, who looked a little haggard, and much grayer than he remembered. Despite this fact, Sentak, father of S'ynek looked...pleased...to see him.

"Live long and prosper, Father."

"Peace and long life...my son...S'ynek. I have followed your career with interest, and not some small amount of satisfaction. You are well?"

"I am father, I have a challenging career, an excellent crew, and my studies are...progressing. I was told of your diagnosis, Bendai Syndrome. I am sorry, father."

"As am I son. I had hoped to live see you rise to the rank of full Admiral in Starfleet. I must say that when you were promoted to the Admiralty, Prefect Sartok had an expression on his face like he had eaten raw Targ. I was startled so much, that I admit I laughed. It was the first signs of my Bendai Syndrome, but it was well worth it, S'ynek. You have made me very proud."

T'oi knew it was the Bendai Syndrome that freed his father to profess his love and pride, but nonetheless it made him feel good. His father was the Chief of Photonic research at the Vulcan Science Academy; cold, calculating, and remorselessly logical. Until this moment, S'ynek had never heard a word of praise from his father, even knowing it was the Bendai Syndrome could not blunt the happiness T'oi felt. His father continued.

"So my son, have you found a man worthy of you?"

Raw, intense passion coursed through his blood like a bolt of lightning. A clear face, handsome, soft, happy, but with a passion that the softness hid...to most casual observers. The eyes limpid pools promising depths as yet unplumbed. Then mercifully, T'oi passed out.
__________________________________________________________________________

S'ynek woke up on a meditation couch, his father's meditation couch. Looking around the room, the brazier and censer at his feet made up the only ornamentation in the deliberately spartan environment. His father had sent him here to contemplate the writings of the Vulcan Physiologist T'len. Whenever S'ynek displeased his father for whatever reason, he was sent in here to contemplate in silence and set aside an intellectual task. This time S'ynek had questioned the philosophy of Surek, needless to say, young S'ynek was sent to meditate the conditions of the Pon Farr.

Little did his father know that he was going to refuse the match between him and T'ilek daughter of Stile, the grandaughter of Prefect Sartok. Lately it had occurred to S'ynek that he was not particlarly interested in Vulcan girls, in fact it was fairly clear that he preferred the company of other males....and even had intimate feelings about them. S'ynek wondered if the Pon Farr would work with two male Vulcans. The writings of T'len were unrevealing about the nature of his orientation. Humans had long gotten past their hang-ups, but Vulcan writings were...unclear.

(cont)

((He seems to be alright, no signs of Bendai Syndrome, but he is in the middle of some sort of dream, his body shut down when...you say he behaved as if the Pon Farr had begun?))

((Yes, Doctor))

((Admiral T'oi is remarkably sensitive, his passive ability to receive telepathic communication is unusual. It is like someone or something has opened him up and he cannot shut down))

((T'oi?))

((Yes S'ynek took another name on his Starfleet records to symbolize his freedom from Vulcan's "emotional chains," his friends, contemporaries, and the last man he loved call him "T'oi." He took the news that you had Bendai Syndrome very hard, sir. Your son loves you...both of you.))

((My poor son, he came to me in a weakened state. I have seen this behavior in one other Vulcan like my son. They have both bypassed the Pon Farr. Tell me, Dr. do you know if my son has fallen in love before?))

((I don't think so, sir))

((Well, I may have Bendai Syndrome, but my son has fallen in love with someone, he may not even know it himself.))

((How do you know, sir?))

((Doctor, my son is deep in the Pon Farr, the one he loves is not here, until some sort of resolution occurs, he will continue to have these...Pon Farr flashes..I am certain he can hear us, and he will be conscious soon. One other factor against him is that he was exposed to me in my weakened state, may I suggest a phase four telepathic inhibitor as a temporary solution. It won't damage his intellect, but it will feel like his head is...stuffed in cotton. My son is damned, until he meets this person he has fallen in love with, he will be fighting the Pon Farr.))

S'ynek awoke weeping uncontrollably.

"My son, all will be well, open your mind to me and I will give you my strength"

"I can't, I can't!"

Stern. "Yes my son, you can and you will, if you let this rage in you much longer, it will kill you."

"Yes, father...my mind is yours..."

(cont)

It was a remarkable thing to see the mind of his father, feel the ravages of Bendai Syndrome under the effects of a partial telepathic inhibitor. Intellectually, T'oi knew his father's condition would accelerate lending his strength to him. But, that ability to sacrifice was the quality that made Sentak of Vulcan the father that S'ynek now knew him to be. He had not sent his son into Starfleet with any sense of personal shame. It was his private desire to protect his son from a life on loneliness on Vulcan. Certainly young S'ynek would have found some other young Vulcan male to spend his life with on Vulcan and even perhaps had an above average career at the Science Academy, but Sentak knew that would not satisfy his son, and when he had the chance to encourage his boy to leave Vulcan to the wider galaxy, he did so with no sense of personal shame for him, but a pride in his son's intellectual brilliance and courage to question what others might call a "core philosophy."

Sentak could see and feel everything his son knew, and S'ynek's dawning realization of the sacrifices Sentak had made for him. This dawning realization was bittersweet for Sentak, he had never intended his son to know about the deal he had made with Prefect Sartok to secure S'ynek's freedom from a preplanned career. He certainly had never intended his son to feel the intense dislike Sentak had for Sartok, whom he regarded as a shameful manipulator unworthy of senior prefectship. He could also feel his son's love for this mysterious man...it was like a great desert wind, intensely hot and molten to the core, it was also soft and tender like a gentle underground stream. No wonder he was feeling the Pon Farr singing in his veins. A brief flash of embarassment as his son realized Sentak could also see past intimacies shared and the love he hoped for.

Tears running down his father's face, "Oh, my son...I am so proud of you. You have lived an honest life caring for others and committed to your duty to make things better for everyone you touch. Your First Officer Commander Umax sent your Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Tennyson here via Delta Flyer. He said to tell you that no Counselor had been posted to the Sagan yet, but he has put in an emergency request through Admiral Quinn to send one who is familiar with Vulcan emotional states here as fast as possible. Your Ferengi First Officer is professional and it is clear to me your crew deeply cares about you. He also wanted me to pass on a message, I don't understand it. "Tell Admiral T'oi that he is not rid of me yet, something about a promotion offer he refused?"

T'oi laughed, albeit a bit shakily. "That stubborn Ferengi is going to screw up his career by staying with me, he really deserves and needs a sole ship command."

"Well aren't we a pair father? You dying of Bendai Syndrome and me stuck in a Pon Farr cycle I can't stop. If we weren't both dying, mother would kill us both. I really never thought that joke I made among friends would come back and bite me quite like this."

"What's that, son?"

"When I was younger I used say to all of the handsome, eligible men I met...who were not Vulcan, 'Want to Pon Farr?' I expected blunt refusals and some slapping, but not Pon Farr itself taking its revenge."

Father and son broke up into uncontrollable laughter. Just at that moment his mother stepped in, looking mildly exasperated.

"Well, just look at the two of you, laughing like a pair of Earth hyenas. I never, in all of my years NEVER thought I would have to nurse back to health two emotional Vulcans."

S'ynek was laughing hard when the next Pon Farr flash hit him and he blacked out.

(cont)

_______________________________________________________________________

((He's losing the fight, Master Sentak. You know the symptoms well, first his control is taken away by the Pon Farr, then the vital organs start to shut down, and finally the brain shuts down completely. He must find this man that he loves or he will die, and there is nothing medically I can do to prevent it, except slow it down.))

(How long does he have Doctor?)

((I can keep him in the first phase for no more than a week, then his bodily organs start to shut down...that phase takes another week maybe less, he is fighting with everything he has, after that...no guarantees from me. It would be up to a Vulcan physician to bring him back by that time. I am considered one of the foremost human experts on Vulcan physiology, but I am not a Vulcan.))

(Do you know anyone that can arrest this process?)

((Yes, I read a paper published by a Starfleet Physician and Counselor, if I recall correctly he is part Vulcan. I have already requested Admiral Quinn send him here. He also knows something about Bendai Syndrome as I recall.))

(Any idea when this Doctor will be here?)

((No, but Quinn will get him here...))

(Do you know his name?)

((Of course, Master Sentak...his name is unusual and easy to remember. Narciso...I don't know his rank, but he has an excellent reputation in the Science branch.))

(Well for S'ynek's sake, I hope he is on his way)

Gasping for breath, T'oi regained consciousness.

"No! NO!!!

Crying uncontrollably....inconsolable.

"He can't see me this way...!!! Not this way!!! Please Father!!

Sentak, with remarkable physical strength, grabbed his son preparing for the mind meld, and gasped when the connection was established.

"Your mind to my mind, your thoughts to my thoughts, peace, son. I am here, you need to be calm"

Still weeping, T'oi started to calm down, as the meld was established. Shortly thereafter, his breathing calmed...and he fell asleep..with a troubled frown on his face.

"Well Doctor, I know who the man he loves is."

"Who?"

(to be continued)

On Earth Spacedock

Admiral Graham Quinn was worried, what was supposed to be a family visit to Vulcan for one of his Ship Captains had gone sideways. Quinn was mindful of the significance of Bendai Syndrome having heard of the case of Ambassador Spock’s father, and now Sentak, the father of one of his more senior task force commanders, Vice-Admiral S’ynek of Vulcan, known as T’oi, was dying of it. Quinn let out a short stream of curses; S’ynek had not made it clear to anyone that he was also in a Pon Farr cycle. An almost unbelievable set of circumstances that no one could have predicted, and information was not in abundant supply, but the Acting Captain of the Carl Sagan, Commander Umax, had made it clear that for some reason, S’ynek was dying from the uncompleted mating cycle. Quinn stared into his large aquarium at a Tiger Fish, not only did the fish have deadly poison spines it was considered a rare delicacy to eat. Incorrect ritual preparation always resulted in death. Like love among Vulcans, he surmised.

“Admiral Quinn? Admiral Brooks for you.”

“Patch him through, Commander.”

Turning to his comm screen, Quinn saw a much harried Chief of Starfleet Medical, Leon Brooks.

“Graham, I have good news and bad news, first the good news I know of one supremely qualified Counselor to handle this crisis. He wrote up a treatise on the Pon Farr in the Starfleet Medical Journal that is required reading for all of my personnel that study Vulcan physiology and Ship’s Counselors. He is also a surgeon, and I would have loved to have him under my command. Which leads me to the bad news…he’s one of yours, Narciso Neves-Heliree. Remember the Adonis?”

“I know him Leo, I remember reading his debriefing on that nasty bit of business. Took command of the ship long enough to evacuate the crew, received injuries…I stole him from you, right?”

“Something I will never forgive you for, Quinn. If you had only taken either S’ynek or Heliree I wouldn’t have the shortage of qualified senior officers to consider my replacement from, but I digress. If you want Heliree for this, and if you have a lick of sense you will, you need to order him to Vulcan. I can only say that he is the only name on the list. If anyone can save S’ynek it’s Heliree.”

“Thanks Leo, I owe you a big one.”

Tapping his combadge

“Quinn to Sulu, do you know where Lt. Commander Narciso Neves-Heliree is?”

“Yes sir, he is on the Borg front right where you ordered the USS Corona.”

“I need you to cut orders separating him from his ship for this. I can’t afford to pull the ship from the front so his Captain will have to do without a Counselor for now. In the meantime, send the fastest transwarp capable ship to pick him up and go directly to Vulcan. We don’t have time for the bloody niceties, make sure the ship that goes to get him isn’t commanded by an asshole, send S’ynek’s medical records and the latest report from the CMO on the ground so Heliree gets up to speed fast.”

To be continued

Narciso was in his office taking down notes on his datapad regarding his schedule. He paused for a moment, feeling slightly uneasy and looked out of his window, out the ships' port side and onto the stars beyond. It was hard to believe that they were currently fighting against the Borg in the middle of this vast star ocean. But that was a reality he could not ignore. His eyes returned to the screen of the datapad and as his fingers were about to type a chime came from the door. "Come in, it's open." He called out as he placed the datapad onto his desk. as the doors slide open, the ships' captain walked in with a somewhat sour note. "Captain Karalin, what brings you here? Is everything alright?" Narciso questioned as he took note of the look upon his captains' face. The man walked closer and did so somberly, "Counselor it is nothing serious, at least not regarding the ship itself. However you have been called to Vulcan for a sensitive, medical emergency."


Narciso's heart nearly jumped out of his chest, he remembered his grandparents on Vulcan and immediately began to worry. The captain, realizing his error, quickly began to correct himself. "No, no Counselor. Your family is fine. This is involving someone else. Here." He spoke his last word as he lifted up a datapad for Narciso to take. "This should explain everything to you. It is a matter with which you are more than capable of handling. Now, a transport has come for you and shall arrive within two hours. Take that time to brief yourself." The captain turned to leave but stopped at the door. "Counselor, you will be missed. Hurry back to us." Narciso only looked to the captain as he left and then glanced down to the datapad he was given. He was used to such hasty assignments, but that scare he received set his nerves up a notch.


The datapad proved to be an interesting read. The Vulcans weren't known for being... a sharing race when it came to such personal things. Even with a person who was a quarter Vulcan, they tended to only speak of such things should the person experience it. And Narciso, thankfully due to his natural biology, was void of experiencing severe Pon Farr. Though the Phase was another story altogether. "So... S'ynek is the patient... Haven't I heard that name before from Admiral Quinn? Must have been in passing. regardless he must be a fool to allow this Pon Farr cycle to advance so far... Must be interesting circumstances, to say the least." Narciso thought to himself in the silence of his office. He stood and gathered his needed materials before taking leave of the space, turning his head once he reached the door to look back one more time with a smile. "Computer, turn lights off." With a chime, the lights powered off and Narciso left for his quarters.


As the Counselor walked the halls of the Corona, all he passed waved a hello, unbeknownst to them, it was actually a goodbye. Yet Narciso smiled and returned the hellos with a wave. Entering his quarters, one could instantly see all the art within. Vases, paintings, artifact replicas all from the same origin: Betazed. He reached his dresser and pulled all the drawers out, hastily taking his clothes and placing them into a messenger-like bag. He rose the strap and wore it over his shoulder, taking a final look around his home. The items that he used for the decor would be left here, at least for now until his return. Nodding to himself he moved to leave and caught his reflection on a hanging mirror. He stopped and looked, his civilian attire, a deep blue one piece that was tight around his chest and waist, and loose around his legs. He took extra care to look at his scar, the one he was inflicted with during the incident aboard the Adonis. It was short in length, and thin as well, located just to the bottom right side of his lips. It had been much worse before the CMO of the Thunderchild, the ship that rescued the Adonis crew, had patched him up. The small scar for some reason simply refused to disappear. It stood as a mark of the ongoing battle with the Borg, as a memento of how there are things more important than ones' self. Snapping back from his thoughts on his scar, Narciso heard the computer chime and someone request that he come to transporter room one. It would appear that his ship had arrived...


Narciso entered into the transporter room and found the captain in there awaiting him. "Captain Karalin, I did not expect you to be here to see me off." The captain only smiled and laughted heartily, "Counselor I wouldn't miss this. Besides, it seems we have been called to dive further into the front. They have need of a science ship... Things are going, harshly on the front." Narciso's eyes went slightly wide, "Well how can I possibly leave at a time like this?" The captain placed a hand on Narciso's shoulder and gave him a push onto the transporter pad. "We will be fine. The Corona is a tough ship and can provide all the aid in the world. Our arrival will boost morale for those awaiting us. Lt., Energize." Narciso stumbled onto the transporter pad and turned in time to see the transporter officer power up his station. "Wait-wait, captain-" Before he could finish his sentence he was beamed onto the ship brought here to carry him to Vulcan, the USS Sao Paulo. an Intrepid class starship. As soon as he was aboard, the ship jumped into warp speed towards Vulcan.


Hours later, Narciso was within his temporary quarters and sitting at his desk. Now that he was close enough, he was able to send a communication to Vulcan. He opened his monitor and watched the screen light up, "Contact Vulcan, route me to the home of Chief of Photonic Studies Sentak, emergency medical, thank you." Narciso did not have to wait long, before he knew it the image of a beautiful Vulcan woman appeared on his monitor. She appeared to be later middle age, with light grey hair, tied up in a traditional knot with light green eyes.


"Greetings, I am T'ylen, the wife of Sentak, are you the officer we have been expecting?"


"Ah, T'ylen." Narciso rose his hand in the traditional gesture and bowed his head, a higher form of Vulcan respect his grandfather beat into him. "Live long and prosper Madam T'ylen. Yes I am the medical officer. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance. I wish it had been under less stressful circumstances. Tell me, how is he faring?"


"Peace and Long Life, Lieutenant Commander Neves-Heliree. My son S'ynek is withstanding the effects of phase one of the Pon Farr. He is currently stable but unconscious."


"I see. The Pon Farr is... a trying ordeal. Tell me, has he spoken about it prior or during his visit?"


"He did not speak of it, he was concerned for his father."


"I see. His father though? Is Sentak alright? I remember meeting him prior, very briefly during a science conference. A brilliant man."


"He is as well as he can be, Doctor. Although the two of them are...somewhat erratic. My son is not a follower of Surek and embraced his emotions as a young man."


"Erratic you say? I see... Not a follower of Surek? Now that is a very rare thing for a Vulcan. Tell me, has he undergone any meditation to supress his emotions at all? Any meditational discipline? If not, I must note down that his emotions are even more dangerous during this Pon Farr cycle."


"My son is fully trained in meditation...and until he came to see his father, he seemed well, if not a bit nervous. You see, this is the first time he has returned to Vulcan since he joined Starfleet."


"I understand, that is good to know. It would have been an extreme situation should he not have learned those disciplines. Now, you said he was well until he saw his father. There was nothing written in the report given to me of any incident regarding Pon Farr prior to this. So I must bare to logic that this was his first episode. Is Sentak at his side? May I speak to him?"

"Yes, allow me to transfer you to his office terminal, I am gratified Starfleet sent a highly knowledgeable officer."


"Please, the honor and privilege is all mine." Narciso waited for a second as his call was transferred over. Soon the image of an elder Vulcan came on his viewscreen. Sentak of Vulcan was a handsome man, tall, with a shock of grey hair over his right temple.


"Doctor Sentak. It is an honor to see you once more sir. I pray you are well." Narciso bowed his head once more, this time to Sentak himself, showing the elder his owed respect. The man was, after all, a highly esteemed scientist.


Sentak did a clear double take, if Narciso had not known he had Bendai Syndrome, such a gesture would be striking. "You... You are the officer Starfleet sent, Doctor Heliree?" A long pause, even more striking. "It is an honor to see you here. Starfleet is not known for sending incapable officers. I am pleased they chose you."


Narciso gave a soft smile, and responded. "Yes Doctor, I was the one sent, and am pleased to have been so. Doctor are you well? You seem somewhat... tired. Is it from aiding your son?"


"I must admit, maintaining a mind meld, even with my son under the effects of phase four telepathic inhibitor is difficult. He is...distraught. I also fear my Bendai Syndrome inhibits my telepathic control."


Narciso's eyes widened slightly but he quickly regained his composure. "Bendai Syndrome Doctor?... I understand. Your son is lucky to have gotten your aid, as it would appear that he is suffering more than the report had hinted towards. A phase four telepathic inhibitor... and he is still having severe symptoms Doctor? I am intrigued and puzzled. Has he been capable of any controlled meditation on his own?"


"I have seen through the meld his meditation, unfortunately we had only started to talk when he experienced his first episode here. He has been hiding his feelings for at least a week prior to arriving on Vulcan."


Narciso paused for a moment. A notification came to him over the ships intercom that the USS Sao Paulo had arrived in Vulcan Space and would be entering orbit around the planet shortly. Narciso looked back to his monitor and back onto the face of Sentak. "That is understandable. As a Vulcan, he would have kept it to himself. Has he been receiving any medication for the chemical imbalances the Pon Farr is causing? His serotonin levels must be in constant flux, not to mention other hormones. It would be no wonder as to why his symptoms are so severe. I shall bring with me the proper equipment to evaluate him." Narciso took up a datapad and hastily typed into his notes regarding this situation. His attention returned to Sentak and the conversation at hand. "Doctor, my transport is entering orbit now. Would it be acceptable for me to beam directly to your home?"


"That would be agreeable, Doctor Heliree. Set your coordinates as instructed by the Academy."


Narciso nodded and smiled softly. "I shall arrive soon Doctor." With a motion of his hand the call was terminated. Narciso stood from his chair but suddenly felt uneasy...


S'ynek sat straight upright, screaming "Father, Father!" The Pon Farr gripped S'ynek and his eyes stared off into space. Images, a soft, handsome face with green eyes...no blue, both. Long flowing, light brown hair draping over his right shoulder covering his right eye, and a scar, very thin and short from some sort of injury. By now tears were flowing freely down S'ynek's face. His father rushed to him trying to reestablish the mind meld, but with a supreme effort, S'ynek looked straight into his father's eyes. "He is here! I feel him...does he feel me!?" Sentak forced his arms onto his son's shoulders, pushing to lay him down. "T'ylen!! T'ylen!!" Sentak shouted for his wife's aid as his son suddenly shoved him with extreme force. Sentak was knocked to the floor, his wife finally entered the room to see her son thrashing about where he lay and her husband on the floor. "Sentak, it is far too much! What do we do for him!?" she rushed to his side, helping him to sit up. Sentak looked at his son, panic flooding over him from his loss of control. S'ynek suddenly shot up, screamed and collapsed, passing out entirely...


Narciso looked to the door, taking a heavy step towards it as the uneasiness grew and grew. A pain emerged in his stomach and he rose a hand onto his abdomen. "I.. Medical..." He suddenly felt dizzy, his vision blurred and became contorted, almost spinning around him. He stumbled to his side, grasping the head of the chair he had been sitting on. "Computer... Med... emergency..." His vision went dark and he felt himself fall forward, his hand catching himself on his desk. "Medical emergency, Heliree's quarters!" Managing to get those final words out, Narciso fell to the side, landing on the floor, a jumble of images flooding his mind.

(to be continued)

((He has had quite a shock. I am not quite sure what happened, Captain))


(What is your diagnosis, Doctor?)


((Probably stress induced from being overworked, he should be fine when he wakes up, I've given him a few vitamin supplemet injections. I will prescribe a good meal and a return to his duties))


(Very good, Quinn would eat me alive if something happened to him under my care)


A brief second later, Narciso's eyes shot open and his voice called out. "What the deities happened!?" He shot up, now sitting on the biobed and was fighting a nurse off of him, as she tried to get him to lay down. "I'm fine, I'm fine -geez- go fill a hypospray." She gave him a stern look and he looked back at her, innocently. "Okay I'm a little cranky." Laughing, she shook her head and walked off. The captain and the CMO now stood beside him. "Heliree! What happened?" The captain asked. Narciso looked to him as he stood up from the biobed, patting himself off. "I'm alright. I think I just... got overloaded with emotion." The captain looked to him with a questioning glare. "Over Vulcan orbit? I heard that you were extremely sensitive but good lord man. Vulcan!" Narciso shook his head and shrugged. "I don't understand it either. But either way, I'm fine. I haven't been out long, I believe, so I should get going. I am expected on Vulcan." Narciso began walking forward and as he did so he seemed perfectly fine, until he took his tenth step and fell over to the side onto the CMO. "I'm fine, just a little wobbly in the leg. It's nothing." The captain and the CMO looked at each other with a raised eyebrow and then watched on as Narciso moved out of sickbay and to the transporter room.


Narciso stood on the transporter pad, nodding to the transporter chief and looked down to the equipment near him. Soon the transporter activated and he was sent into the home of Doctor Sentak. As he rematerialized, Narciso's eyes landed on the same woman he had spoken to earlier on the communicator.


"Welcome to our home, Doctor Heliree. Live long and Prosper." T'ylen seemed a little shaken up, even for a Vulcan. It was more than apparent that she had just withstood something traumatic.


Narciso rose his hand in the Vulcan gesture. "Peace and long life Madam T'ylen. I am happy to have arrived, forgive me for the delay. There was a minor incident. Where is your son?"


"He is in the study with my husband. Sleeping again...although he awoke briefly." She pointed to a nearby door, "Through there. Allow me to escort you in."


Narciso looked towards where she had pointed. "Very well. Thank you." Narciso grabbed his medical briefcase from the floor beisde him and began to walk forward, beside T'ylen. as they walked in, Narciso took in the sights of the room. The room was a study, obviously for Sentak himself. The main thing about the room was the desk it held within it. A deep cherry coloured wood with a highly sophisticated console. things lay atop the desk, an IDIC necklace, three padds that were likely project work as yet unfinished. Turning to the bed Narciso noticed that it was very simple, but at last he saw his patient. Where Sentak was tall with, the figure on the bed was only slightly above average, medium build, with brown hair tied into a pony tail. His eyes were closed, but a slight frown on his face. He was still wearing desert robes. Sentak approached after noticing his wife and Narciso standing in the doorway.


"Doctor Heliree, it is great to see you again, I apologize for the troubling circumstances. As you can see, my son is not conscious, although he has shown signs of hearing our conversations."


Narciso took a few steps towards the man, then looked over to S'ynek, who was laying down. He thought to himself for a moment; Haven't I seen him before? His eyes returned to Sentak and he responded softly. "Yes, it is saddening that we had to meet again in this type of situation." Narciso placed his medical briefcase on the counter and opened it, silently taking up his medical tricorder. "Has he been unconcious for long?"


"He arrived here four days ago, and he has been unconscious off and on every day since. He has awakened twice, once after what I believed to be a dream of some sort, and once right as your ship established orbit. I am... worried."


Narciso paused for a moment as Sentak spoke of worrying. He turned his head and faced him, looking into his eyes. "You are worried, aren't you... Doctor I believe you and I should speak after I evaluate your son, should that be agreeable with you."


"Of course that is agreeable, I would like that."


"Yes... " Narciso returned his attention to the main issue at hand, his primary patient; S'ynek. He laid there, peacefully yet troubled. One didn't have to be telepathic to sense it. Narciso moved beside the simple bed and knelt onto the floor. He rose the medical tricorder so that he could read it and detached the scanning probe from it. He commenced his analysis on the Vulcan before him, everything from tissue readings to chemical reactions. It was the latter that was troubling. "His neurochemicals are completely off balance... Doctor, please grab the hyposprays from my briefcase."


Sentak walked over to the case and retrieved the four hyposprays. His gait was a little unsteady and when he thought Narciso wasn't looking, he gave him a frankly appraising look. The expression on his face clear and unruffled, he thought to himself, "This is the man my son loves, he's bright, professional, and good looking. I wonder how he will react when he finds out." Sentak walked over to the bed, and passed the hyposprays along to Narciso, who took them without a second glance due to his being occupied.


T'ylen, who had been watching from the doorway walked over to her husbands' side, and placed a gentle hand onto his shoulder. "Sentak, my husband, you are tired. Perhaps you should leave the Doctor to his work." Sentak looked at his wife with a slightly surprised look on his face, but soon understood what she was referring to. "Yes.. Yes my dear you are correct... Doctor, I leave my son in your hands. I shall be outside. When you are finished please feel free to come seek me." With that said, Sentak turned and walked out, his natural steps seemed weak, tired, weary. As the two disappeared into the next room, Narciso couldn't help but to watch them go, thinking of how long they have been together. His attention returned to S'ynek quickly however. He took up the hyposprays, making sure he knew which ones were loaded with what. He took two of the four and injected them into S'ynek's neck. One a stabilizing dose of serotonin, and the other a simple compound to ease the chemical processes that were going rampant.


"There we go... Everything is looking better." He spoke to himself as he read the tricorder in his hands. In the tradition of doctors, he put down the equipment and placed his hands on S'ynek's neck, feeling for anything unusual such as swollen glands or nodes. When everything checked out Narciso was going to break off and put his equipment away, but caught sight of S'ynek's face, the frown disappearing, leaving him with a neutral look. Narciso used his hand, delicately turning the mans' face towards his own, to get a better look. "I have seen you before... But not here on Vulcan... Where was it?" Narciso paused for a moment, then stood up. As his eyes shifted from S'ynek to the desk his arm was grasped by a firm grip, almost pulling him downwards. His free hand took hold of the one grabbing him, and his eyes fell once more onto S'ynek, who spoke in a deep whisper, his eyes still closed, "Risa..." Narciso's eyes were wide at the word spoken, and the act of what just happened scared him, having the blood leave his face, making him pale. From the doorway, a feminine voice called his name. "Doctor Heliree..." Narciso looked up, seeing T'ylen standing there with a slightly, very slightly worried look on her face. "I heard you scream..." Narciso paused for a moment, then looked down to S'ynek, he laid perfectly still, his hands unmoved, never having grabbed him. "I... I'm fine." Narciso responded. It must have been a telepathic vision.


T'ylen moved towards him, raising an eyebrow that way Vulcans do when they don't believe something. "You are pale child."


Narciso touched his own face with his left hand, his skin felt slightly cold and clammy. For a short, simple vision, it sure did leave an impact. "I must be more tired than I realized."


"You looked as though you had seen a spector." T'ylen knelt down, picking up the dropped hyposprays. "You sounded as though you did as well."


Narciso knelt down as well, taking the hyposprays. "Yes, forgive me. I didn't... I did not mean to scream at all."


"We are all tired from these passing events." She spoke gently as she stood up. "I would have you rest. You are finished with your evaluation yes?"


"Yes, I am." Narciso spoke as he stood up himself. "It was a quick examination."


"Quick?" T'ylen looked puzzled. "Child you have been in here for an hour now. My husband sent me to make sure you were alright and unharmed."


Narciso returned her puzzled look with his own. "An hour? Unharmed? No I am perfectly fine..."


"Then if it is agreeable, come join us for the evening meal." T'ylen allowed her neutral look to retake her face, then moved to the doorway, waiting for Narciso to follow.


"Of course. A warm meal would be wonderful." Narciso walked behind her, looking back to S'ynek, wondering what that vision was all about. He didn't remember ever seeing him onf Risa. As he walked on, he entered into their dining room, Sentak stood before his seat at the table, a stern glance from him was placed on Narciso when he entered. Not one of distrust, more one of worry.


"Narciso, you are well. I am glad to see this." He spoke more sternly, less emotional. Within the hour that had passed he must have meditated with his wife and restrengthed his mental hold.


"Yes Doctor, I am. as I apologized to your wife, I do so to you now. I had not realized so much time had passed." Narciso stood at his seat, and was told to sit down by the motion of T'ylen. He did so, obediently and watched as sentak did, then his wife. The food on the table was lavish. All the expected dishes of the Vulcan culture, high class culture too. This reminded Narciso of an important question. "How long as it been since S'ynek has eaten anything?"


Sentak looked at Narciso and shook his head. "No, my son has not consumed anything of substance since he arrrived. another grave concern for his mother and I."


Narciso paused for a moment. "The injections I gave him should allow his neurochemicals to balance. He should awaken soon, and hopefully not be strained from his ordeal."


S'ynek opened his eyes, he was somewhat disoriented at first, He had dreamed he was on Risa and the man was there. Looking at the ceiling, he remembered he was home on Vulcan..with his parents. He was tired, but he felt oddly better.The pain was still there, but it had subsided some. A sudden realization, he spoke out loud, "He's here, I can feel him." One tear drifts down his left cheek. Rising from the bed, S'ynek walked unsteadily towards the family room passing through the door, as wobbly as a newborn Sehlat cub. He realized in a detached way that he was hungry. He smiled as he became aware of the smell of his mother's plomeek soup, that a bowl of it would be nice. Realizing he looked a mess, S'ynek decided it would be a wise idea to stop by his bedroom where the rest of his off-duty clothes were. Moving as quickly and efficiently as he could he steeped into his room. The walls were a dusky rose with hardwood floors of Mahagony, his old desk still in his favorite place, by the window overlooking the spires of the Vulcan Science Academy. Quickly shucking his robe, he took a hastened sonic shower, and used the Starfleet issue beard repressor. Finally, back to his closet, he chose a dark navy blue, one-piece jumpsuit with a diagonal forest green panel thrown loosely over his shoulder. Checking in the mirror one last time and taking a deep breath he walked back into the family room. Suddenly it dawned on him, there was someone in the dining room with his mother and father, slowing down he listened to the voice. It sounded familiar...


T'ylen nodded in agreement. "That would be good. He requires nurishment."


Sentak also nodded, and looked to Narciso. "It does my heart good to know my son is receiving your excelent care."


Narciso smiled, taking the compliment. "You honor me Doctor. I do what I can." Narciso took the napkin and placed it onto his lap. His hosts did the same and Sentak reached for the food, allowing everyone to begin their festing. As the food was passed around, the scent reminded Narciso of his grandparents, whom were still here on Vulcan. He pondered on the subject for a moment, thinking that he should say hello soon, though his being here on Vulcan was to care for his patients. T'ylen, was relentless when it came to the food. "Try this. Here eat some of this. You will... enjoy this," were her words as the food was placed onto Narciso's plate. Just like a mother, to care for the younger generation. Of course, her portion sizes were logical... kinda. She was, as an earthling would say, 'stuffing him full'.


A voice from the door was the first sign that S'ynek was there. "Mother I see you are playing the genial host," S'ynek's voice was light and a little weak, but sounding more like his usual self, the odd thing about his voice was that the emotion was clearly displayed. "Father, are you well? May I have the pleasure of meeting our guest? I apologize for my lateness, I was somewhat indis.." At that moment S'ynek saw Narciso's face...suddenly with no words to express himself he could only stare. "I know you..."


Narciso stood up from his chair, as he saw Sentak and T'ylen stand once a voice came from the doorway. He took the napkin from his lap, placing it next to his plate. He turned and saw S'ynek standing there, apologizing and looking better than he had before, during the examination. Narciso's eyes met those of S'ynek. "I wouldn't be surprised if you didn't. I am the doctor who has started caring for you. My name is Narciso Neves-Heliree..."

Really awesome guys!

T'ylen moves from her seat and takes hold of her son by his arm. "Come my child, sit. Eat. You require it." As she gently pushes him to his seat beside his father, S'ynek's eyes remained bolted on Narciso. Sentak took note of this and coughed into his fist, drawing his sons' attention. "Father, are you well?" Sentak only nods and gestures for everyone to sit down. Once everyone is situated, S'ynek is given a plate and everyone begins to eat.


Sentak began the conversation. "Tell me Doctor, will you be here on Vulcan for much longer? I am referring to after you help my son of course. I know that you have family here yourself."


Narciso nodded as he covered his mouth with a hand and swallowed what he had been masticating. "Yes, actually. I have given that some thought. I will of course, visit my grandparents should time allow it. but I will not see them until my duties here are complete. S'ynek, is my top concern."


Sentak nodded. "Admirable Doctor. Keeping your priorities straight, but knowing to keep your family at heart."


"I do only as I have been raised to do. What I can do." Narciso replied, giving his education from his grandparents respect.


"A trait that many could benefit from." T'ylen put in as she kept her eyes on her son. He seemed well, better than he had been. Yet he was getting... shaky.


"Now I take it you will be staying on the planet surface." Sentak said, somewhat questioningly.


"Yes doctor, I will be staying at the Academy. It is not to far, and it will allow me to continue my own work while I care for your son." Narciso spoke softly, enjoying his meal.


"You will not be staying here with us Doctor?" T'ylen asked. S'ynek instantly tensed up, pausing what he was doing.


"I could not possibly intrude into your home Madam T'ylen." Narciso replied.


"Nonsense doctor." Exclaimed Sentak, seemingly joyful now. "I would have you in my home. It is only logical that you stay near the patient. It's not as though he is under quarantine." Sentak spoke logically, but the tone of his voice caused everyone at the table to look at him with a raised eyebrow.


"My husband... Maybe we should skip our plans for this evening... The meeting at the Academy can be postponed until tomorrow." T'ylen spoke, though worried she kept her neutral tone of voice.


"No, we shall go. This meeting has been postponed far too much already." Sentak took a moment and calmed himself down, reaffirming control over his emotions, taming them once more. "I shall be alright. I can endure. I am Vulcan."


Narciso nodded his head, not allowing himself to disrespect a Vulcan of prestige who has started to succumb to Bendai Syndrome. His eyes then placed themselves on S'ynek, who he spoke to softly as Sentak continued to control himself. "Admiral, are you feeling alright? Please tell me if anything is irregular."


"I am feeling as well as can be expected...Doctor. Just last week I was in command of the Science Reconnaisance Vessel, USS Carl Sagan, and my mother called me to tell me of my father's....condition. Naturally, I requested family leave time and my ship dropped me off here. Now I have two problems...shall I say, challenges. I came here to help my father and somewhere along the way, I lost my...composure. Doctor, I have never gone through a Pon Farr cycle. But in the interests of...frankness, I cannot withold information that could alter my future course of treatment."


"I see. It is understandable, and now my hypothesis is proven. You came into contact with your father during a weakened moment. His emotions overwhelmed you and triggered this harsh Pon Farr episode."


"You are partially correct, Doctor. But I must confess that I was already having mild Pon Farr episodes before I beamed down here. In fact, I had been having them for a week, and my mediatation was handling the worst of it. But when I came in contact with my father, it accelerated the process."


Narciso looked to Sentak and then back to S'ynek. "Of course, that is very logical Admiral." Narciso then took note of how personal this conversation could get. "We should speak more of this after dinner." Before Narciso could say anything else, Sentak stood from the table, his wife following his lead.


"Doctor, I am afraid I must take my leave now. The meeting at the Academy is scheduled to commence, but I would appear there sooner. I would invite you to come with my wife and I, I understand your interest in Photonics, but I believe your presence is needed here with my son."


Narciso stood from the table himself. "Of course Doctor, I understand. Please do not worry of my not taking part in this meeting. However I would be eager to speak with you on the matter once you return." Narciso and S'ynek watched as Sentak and T'ylen took their leave, both still standing at their seats. Narciso looked over to his patient. "I am very satisfied by your mothers meal. If you'll excuse me Admiral, I should check on my hyposprays. They need to be refilled." Narciso moved behind his seat, and took leave of the room, leaving S'ynek alone as he entered the study to begin the matience on his equipment. He had been sensing a very uneasy emotion from S'ynek. It was borderline hostile. Aggressive would be a better choice.


S'ynek carefully started to rebuild his meditation, but the walls were tissue thin. He felt the overhwelming urge that Vulcans felt before him...and undoubtably would feel after him. He had to find a way to communicate his need, but he also knew he had to be broadcasting to every telepathic sensitive his emotions. He carefully, keeping his body posture as neutral as he could followed Narciso.


"Doctor, you are an excellent physician and a counselor, but there is more data that you.. would you please turn around and look at me?"


Narciso froze for a second. his hands stopped working on the hyposprays the were holding, now with a death grip. The sensation he was reading off S'ynek before had amplified. Even more so now that they were closer together. He forced his hands to continue their work, to keep them busy, even though he was almost done refilling them. "I'm sorry, I just need to finish calibrating my equipment... but go on, what data is there that I have not been read into? If it is regarding your father's Bendai Syndrome, it is alright. I already know and have taken the liberty of proposing a medical plan to aid him..."


S'ynek carefully walked into closer proximity and all of sudden his walls completely fell, "I do not think you know this." Moving to apply a two finger touch to Narciso's shoulder. It was then that the Counselor turned around, his eyes looking straight upon the hand that was about to touch him. The young Counselor had to force himself to look S'ynek in the eyes, seeing the deepness within them.


"What is it that I do not know Admiral?" Narciso asked quietly, somewhat frightened by the small distance between them.


It was at that moment, S'ynek completed the touch, and it was like an electrical circuit completing. In a rush, all of his feelings crossed that circuit, and the Pon Farr began in earnest. Both of them were overwhelmed by what was happening. Narciso however, was still scared, unsure entirely of what this was, his natural telepathic sensory was overloaded. With a swift motion, he rose his arms and planted his hands onto S'ynek's chest, delivering a push that knocked him backwards and effiectively severed the connection that was made. Narciso wrapped his arms around himself in a self-embracing motion, his legs shaking and his mind trying to cope with the surge it had just received. "What... do you think you're... doing!?" He began to move towards the doorway, and managed to see in time that S'ynek was returning to his feet. "Admiral... you're not thinking clearly... The effects of the Pon Farr have clouded your mind, you're not thinking logically!" S'ynek did not seem to hear what the Counselor had spoken. He rose to his feet and did a beeline march straight towards Narciso, grasping him by the arms and shoving him against the wall. With a reflex Narciso delivered a swift bunt with his knee to S'yneks crotch, causing the Vulcan to tumble over and free him from the grasp. He hurried and moved into the next room, contemplating his options. The Pon Farr was a dangerous ordeal, and it needed to be handled delicately. As Narciso contemplated everything, he did not notice S'ynek stand up and recover, then move into the room. A hand grasped his shoulder and spun him around. Before he could act, a deep kiss was planted on his lips. Raw passion and love was transferred through that kiss... Everything finally made logical sense.


S'ynek was aggressive in his kiss, but there was a tenderness to it. When the kiss landed, Narciso's eyes went wide, but a calmness washed over him and he could not help but to place his arms around S'ynek's shoulders. He was filled with these strong emotions... but who's emotions were they? His own? S'ynek's? ...Or both of theirs? A tear rolled down S'yneks eye, cascading slowly down his cheek. Narciso felt it on his own, and without warning his own tears began to flow. Once more the emotions began to build and build until they seemed really to erupt. Coming to his senses, He once more put his hands on S'yneks chest, but this time the push was softer, just enough to break their kiss. Narciso kept his face down, unable to look S'ynek in the eyes. A hand was placed under his chin, lifting his face up. S'ynek's lips moved, as he spoke in a whisper. "Now you know..." His arm around Narciso's waist tightened, and embraced the Counselor. "Now you know what you hadn't known before..." Narciso's head rested on S'yneks shoulder. A single word escaped from his lips... "Risa..."


"Yes...Risa. I have known since our minds last touched. You didn't know..."


"Risa... I hadn't known... I..." Narciso broke the embrace, taking a step back. He fixed himself, putting his hair back in order and shifting the torso section of his clothing. He took a deep breath before he spoke. "I take it you will be fine from now on. I am going to provide you a medical order to stay away from your father until your cycle finishes through deep meditation."


"I love you, Narciso...our minds have touched, and you have felt my heart. You know it to be true. Until this moment, I never knew why the Pon Farr happens, it was something to be...avoided. I do not know why we touched souls on Risa. But I do not regret it...the Pon Farr completes with a melding of minds and souls in a physical, mental, and spiritual consummation."


Narciso took another step back, his hand formed a fist and it rose to his chest, letting it stay there. "You cannot love me. and I cannot love you. I am going to the Borg front. And... And... I am betrothed..."


"I too, am going to the Borg front."


"More reason for you not to love me... Should one of us be killed or worse..."


"The other would die..."


"I would have you live and avoid Death. Just as I would have it for myself. But you miss the biggest issue of all. I..." Before Narciso could finish speaking, Sentak entered into the room in a haste, his breathing heavy and erratic. His wife came in behind him, scolding him for running off like a human, that is was illogical for him to have run this far. He silenced her by raising his hand, calling for all to be quiet and looked to the Counselor.


"Heliree..." His panting cut between his words.


"Doctor! What has happened? Are you alright!?" Narciso questioned and made his way to the man, followed directly by S'ynek.


"Hush boy, let me speak!" He called out. "The Corona. the Corona has been lost on the Borg front."


Narciso's hands shot up and covered his nose and mouth, the look of shock on his face was instantaneous from the horrifying news. "The Corona... Oh Great Fire... I... My friends..." The room suddenly spun, and without warning Narciso collapsed backwards and was caught by S'ynek.


S'ynek tenderly picked Narciso up. Without any words being said, he carried the Counselor to his bedroom and laid him down, allowing him to rest comfortably. He took a seat beside the bed, and leaned in close. A hand gently caressing Narciso's cheek, and soft words being spoken. "Everything will be fine... I promise."

WOW, what a wonderful collaboration. The only problem is.....this can't be the end... :( The story will continue....won't it? :S Please?

Quote by ltervlet

WOW, what a wonderful collaboration. The only problem is.....this can't be the end... :( The story will continue....won't it? :S Please?

Yes this must go on...Very clever idea to alternate story tellers. B)

Thank you both for your kind comments, be assured that Narciso and I are continuing our story.

'kaos, not only do we alternate posting the chapters, we collaborate online with a shared pad program. We write in real time and in voice communication with each other. It had been the plan from the beginning to work together, we just had to introduce him at the right time... :)

~Lore

Quote by Lorenius

Thank you both for your kind comments, be assured that Narciso and I are continuing our story.

'kaos, not only do we alternate posting the chapters, we collaborate online with a shared pad program. We write in real time and in voice communication with each other. It had been the plan from the beginning to work together, we just had to introduce him at the right time... :)

~Lore

This is fantastic!!!! I look forward to more chapters. B)

You put your arms around me...
And I'm home.


----------------------------------------------------


T'oi was sitting on the edge of his bed, the bed that Narciso was laying on. It was the only luxury in his room besides his personal clothes. It was large enough for two people to comfortably sleep in, his favorite green sheets were on it and the matching pillow cloths. He looked at Narciso tenderly and gently stroked his hair, "Everything will be fine, I promise." The words were half-vow and half...prayer. He was so...confused, how did this beautiful man come to cast his spell on T'oi and he not realize it? A voice from the entrance to his room...his mother...startled T'oi.


"I remember when I first saw Sentak. He was tall, mysterious, handsome, and intelligent. My son...I see that look in your eyes, the one I saw when I looked in the mirror after seeing your father for the first time. I know...how you must feel. Your heart is full to bursting, you want to gather him in your arms and hold him, protect him, never let go...but, if this is ever to work for the both of you, he must be your match in all things. You must let him be himself, like your father did with me."


T'oi looked up at his mother, he could feel the pain in her voice, soon she would be without the man she loved, but it would not feel like a short time, Bendai Syndrome first strips a Vulcan of their emotional walls and then takes away their sanity. "Mother...I am so very sorry. Father...is a part of you. We will get through this together." He turned his eyes back to Narciso lying on the bed, still stroking his hair. "He will awaken soon, but the shock will remain with him for a while. I have seen his service record, he lost a lot of friends on the Adonis, and now he has lost another group of friends, and perhaps more on the Corona. I will not be able to take his pain away right now, and all sedating him would do is to delay the pain. So I will sit with him, listen to his heart beat, and hold him when he cries...if being an emotional Vulcan had an advantage, it is that I know tears." He wanted to hold his mother too, but he knew she would be embarassed.


Narciso's mind was in a state of flux as he dreamed. Every terror he had ever experienced had come forward and began to drown him in a sea of horrors. He dreamt himself back on Betazed, when the Dominion had invaded. How they were trapped inside a city, running for their lives with blasts from the Jem'Hadar at their heels every step of the way. How he, a child, as being pulled along by the guiding hand of a young woman, refusing to allow him to fall behind. How they had split off from the main group, as it was assaulted by an ambush instantly killing those who ran in the front. They made their way, running faster then they knew possible, towards the mouth of a cave. Every single step was remembered by Narciso as he dreamed, every single pain. Then finally, how they ran inside the rocks, how the young woman had stopped, shoving the small boy inside as the Jem'Hadar grabbed at her, tearing not only her clothes but her delicate flesh beneath. How her screams filled his ears, how she kept telling him to run. How he killed her... The rocks collapsing down on the Jem'Hadar, and atop Sarahi. No longer hearing her screams, no longer seeing anything as the darkness filled the cave...


Narciso tossed over in his sleep, whimpering her name, crying out for her. T'oi couldn't do anything but watch as the pain emerged from Narciso's face. T'oi looked up to his doorway, to see his mother but she had gone, wanting to leave the two alone in private. Not that privacy would last long...


A sudden bang came from the entrance to the home of Sentak. It echoed loudly, and was only muffled by the scream that came after it: "Narciso!?!? Where is Narciso!?!?" The voice was strong, yet clearly that of a woman. It had a hint of Earthling French behind it. "Where is my baby brother!?!?" The young woman ran into room after room, searching disperately for the one she claimed to be her baby brother. T'ylen rushed to the noise, followed by her Husband. Sentak stood before the Earthling his voice loud and resonant. "Who are you that you violate our peace!!" His voice more of a warning than a question. The young woman turned around and faced the pair, determination in her eyes. They were lucky she didn't have her favorite assault weapon with her, or she would simply blast through the walls until she found what she was searching for. Then again, she had kicked in their front door... "I am looking for Narciso! Where is he!" Sentak and T'ylen looked at each other and then to their uninvited guest. "What purpose have you with the counselor?" Sentak asked, not ignoring the fact that she had burst into his family's home in such a rude fashion. "He needs me. He is upstairs isn't he!?" The young woman ran past the distinguished pair and made a mad dash upwards and towards the bedroom that belonged to T'oi. T'oi himself had stood up and was standing guard at the doorway to his room, ready to fight should he need to. As he heard the fast footsteps, he rose and waited. The young woman burst into the room, delivering a swift tackle onto T'oi, sending him across the way. she only stopped until she was hovering over the bed, looking down at the one who laid upon it; Narciso. Her hand reached down, moving the strands of hair from his face. "Ah, little one... I'm here now." Narciso's eyes slowly opened, his vision blurry at first due to the tears that had seen their way down. He looked up at her, and a soft smile graced his lips as he spoke her name. "Marietta.."


T'oi spoke, his tone of voice icy. "As you can see, your friend is resting comfortably and the only harm that has befallen him here is the news of the loss of his ship, friends, and comrades. Something that I feel as sharply as he does...however your barging in here and damaging my parents property was incredibly rude. You owe me nothing, but you owe my parents a sincere apology and I expect you to deliver it-"


Marietta looked to the Vulcan before her and then back down to Narciso as he spoke. Before he could finish his last sentence she cut him off. "Yes yes, apology and all of that. But hush up, your voice is upsetting him." Her voice was thick with her accent, but she was obviously much calmer now. Narciso looked to her with a reaised eyebrow and then shook his head. "Damn it Marietta. You didn't blast through the walls again did you?" Marietta leaned back, standing up now and pointed a hand to her chest. "Moi? no of course not. I used the front door." At that moment Sentak and T'ylen appeared at the doorway, T'ylen followed Marietta's comment with her own. "The front door is meant to be opened. Not torn down." Narciso rose up from the bed and looked to his hosts. "I am very sorry for her actions. I trust nothing else was broken, no walls were torn down yes? She'll pay for everything to be fixed up. Though if I remember correctly she is still paying for having destroyed the hulls of a Steamrunner class starship." Marietta tossed her hands in the air as Narciso gave her a glare. "Little one, you were in trouble. I had no choice but to cut through." Narciso rose his hands to his head and leaned backwards, closing his eyes in disbelief. "Marietta, we were drydocked!!"


"Now, if you will forgive me, I would very much like some answers, Lieutenant. I am a forgiving man,mainly because you are quite obviously a loyal friend to Narciso here. What are you doing here? Oh..allow me to introduce myself, I am Vice Admiral S'ynek nee T'oi, Commander of Task Force 101 at the Borg Front."


Marietta looked to the man as he spoke, introducing himself as a Vice-Admiral. she quickly dismissed his words though by waving her hand. "Yes-yes, I know who you are. That is part of the reason why I am here. I was ordered to bring you your next assignment. And Narciso's as well. but then I heard of what happened to the Corona, so I came as fast as I could. I was scheduled to arrive in two days, but I 'may have' taken over the helm of my transport and punched her up to then past her maximum warp. Oh I might have to pay for the warp core I 'may have' damaged, but it was worth it." As she spoke she rose her hands and made quote marks in the air with her fingers whenever the words 'may have' left her lips.


Quite unexpectedly T'oi started laughing joined by his father. "I like you, Lieutenant, you are by no means standard Starfleet issue. Do you work for Quinn? Oh, never mind...give me my orders, please."


Marietta laughed a bit as well, then reached behind her for her bag and pulled out two datapads. One for Narciso and one for T'oi. She tossed them to the boys concurrently and watched each one try to catch it in mid air. "The gist of it says, Vice-Admiral T'oi is to retake command of his vessel and lead the task force in the Borg front, mission specifics can be found on the pad." She then sat down beside Narciso and wrapped an arm around him. "And you, are to continue your project... They believe it may just be useful against the borg. You are to be placed aboard the new Oddyssey Starship, as it will have the facilities to support your work." Marietta looked down before she spoke again. "So you'll be going to the Borg front as well. But I will be too. I have been reassigned to an Andorian Kumari, which shall be escorting your Oddyssey. Both our ships will be under the command of, Vice Admiral T'oi. Forgive me Admiral, before you read on further into the Datapad... Your task force has lost three ships to the Borg."


T'oi read the orders and data carefully, finding that everything matched up with what the young tactical officer said. "We lost USS Wellington, USS Yunte, and the heavy cruiser USS Tobias Wolff." He winced. "I knew Captain Ch'gon...a good friend." Turning to his parents, "They would not have called unless matters were grim, I must leave quickly, but I will return as soon as I can. Lieutenant, I realize you are dear friends with Narciso here, would you please keep him company while I get into uniform?"


Marietta shook her head, signaling a no. "No time. We leave now, our shuttle is waiting for us. We will be taken to a transport ship and then to Starbase. From there we are to be taken by our respective ships. Come, come. We must hurry now." Marietta lifted herself up off the bed and then hooked Narciso by his arm and lifted him up. She gave him a push towards the door and did the same to T'oi. "We take our leave. The sooner the better. The Borg do not wait, they assimilate." She continued pushing both of them towards the front door, not letting one or the other grab anything. She pushed them past Sentak and his wife, giving them the hand gesture while speaking, "Peace and Long life." Still managing to push the boys along with one hand. Sentak rose his, as did his wife, as they watched the three young Starfleet officers hurry towards the front door. "Peace and long life." They both called out, and stood still as the small group disappeared beyond the walls of their home.


----------------------------------------------------

*In a Star Ocean, the distance is gigantic.*
*I could be in the Dark and you in the Light*
*Regardless, I hold you in my heart.*


---------------------------


The shuttle turned out to be a Danube Class Runabout. The trip to Earth Space Dock would be quick and efficient. But it gave T'oi the opportunity to observe the friendship between Marietta and Narciso, it was remarkable how they almost always completed each other's sentences. T'oi laughed and smilled along with them, but decided it would be good to think with a clear mind. Rationally T'oi knew the connection between Narciso and himself was still there though hidden, and he could feel a mixture of pain, grief, loss, and some wistfulness. He certainly knew Narciso would feel his emotions back, but he used his meditation skills to minimize the feedback, he did not wish Narciso to feel like he was intruding. Perhaps taking a turn at the helm/navigation station would give Marietta and Narciso a chance to talk without him being present, it might even give him a chance to have some privacy to gather his thoughts.


Having Marietta suddenly appear aided Narciso in pushing back everything that had happened with T'oi. Everything was swept aside, and even though they were assigned to the same task force, Narciso was assigned to a different ship. Sadly, Marietta was assigned to another as well. Narciso wasn't sure how smart Starfleet was in putting Marietta in an escort... That girl could take a Olympic class starship, the one considered a mobile hospital, and turn it into one of the most deadly ships out there. In fact she did once, the Cardassians never saw it coming. Marietta was truly gifted as a tactical based officer, and Narciso shuddered at the thought of her eventually gaining command of her own ship... May the deities have mercy... as Narciso began to lose himself in thought, trying to sort everything out, and focus on the upcoming tasks, such as thinking which of his projects would be in practice, Marietta slipped off to the helm and delivered a strong pat to the shoulder of T'oi, who was pushed forward. As she sat down in the opposite seat, she spoke a single sentence. "Do not think you can have him... Admiral." Marietta's fingers ran along the console and she took control of the shuttle, instantly shown by her putting the small vessel into a spin, and her laughing all the way as the shuttles stabilizers had to be overworked to keep up. She soon evened out and started to drop out of warp, within sight was Earth, and in orbit was Earth Space Dock. Marietta began to pilot the ship into dock. "Almost there boys." she signaled to the two as she glanced back, seeing if Narciso had gathered himself.


The young counselor stayed relatively still in his seat, looking out past Marietta with a void look in his eyes. T'oi sat still as well, anticipating the meeting with Quinn, the report on the ships and men he lost would likely be brought up by the Admiral. The entire situation was... strained. As the shuttle was docked, Marietta stood from her seat and took her steps towards Narciso, lifting him by his arms and helping him disembark, leaving T'oi to his own devices. "Look little one, we'll be fine. You'll be in one of the most advanced Starfleet ships yet. And I'll be the one protecting it." Narciso's eyes lost their void stare and he looked up to the young woman. "I know Mari... That is not my concern, well... My concern in that regard is towards you. Though I've seen you tear a Borg Drone apart with your bare hands... This is different." Marietta shook her head. "No way," she responded, "You and I both know that this will be hard but we will pull through. Besides, guess who is piloting the Oddyssey..." Narciso looked up to her with a questioning and worried look in his eyes. "No..." Marietta laughed, "Yes. When he heard you were to be placed there to continue your anti-Borg research, he flat out demanded to take charge of the ship. He's a stubborn man." Narciso allowed his head to tilt forward, a worried look now more than evident on his face. "He is... too protective lately." Marietta began to walk off, and as she did so she dragged Narciso with her. "We have an appointment to keep. Come on." She turned her head to the side and called out to T'oi, "Hurry up Admiral. You wouldn't want to be late!" Her warning was slightly cold, and she did not show any sign of caring to wait for him so that they could all go together.


T'oi emerged from the shuttle in full dress uniform, his blue and white Admiral's coat looking brand new. He gave a look of regret to Marietta, He looked at Narciso and smiled slightly. "Time to face the hangman, Counselor." With a easy grace T'oi picked up speed, born of a familiarity with the back ways through ESD. "If you will both follow me, I think I can make this trip much shorter." Walking over to a blank wall, T'oi pulled out a small device, a signaller of some sort and a corridor appeared through the formerly blank wall. "Admiral's have back ways everywhere, there is a turbolift to Quinn's office just ahead." The cooridor was spartan with a couple of Jefferies Tubes along the way, the turbolift opened, "Vice-Admiral S'ynek for Admiral Quinn with two guests" The turbolift beeped and a voice said "acknowledged." T'oi glanced back at Narciso who was lost in thought and he wondered if he would live or die. Such choices were not as random as people thought. After a very fast trip in silence, the turbolift opened up behind a command console in the lowere area of the Admiral's office. T'oi could feel the waves of hostility from Marietta and winced, a low-grade headache beginning to form behind his temples. Sometimes T'oi devoutly wished to be spared such feelings, but at this point he had to continue to concentrate to keep his feedback from getting to Narciso, an enormous task considering his not inconsiderable skills in empathy. Captain Akira Sulu greeted T'oi as he emerged, "Vice-Admiral T'oi, his eminence awaits," with a small chuckle. "Go right in." Looking amused, T'oi replied, "Of course, Akira, is he eating Vulcans for breakfast today?" Barely keeping a straight face Sulu said, "I do not know, sir..." T'oi crossed the threshold into Quinn's office.


As T'oi entered the admirals office, Narciso and Marietta made a beeline towards Captain Sulu, making sure no one could see them. "Akira!!!" They both shouted as they practically tackled the poor captain. "Akira, what are you doing in here? Weren't you in command of your own ship?" Marietta asked as the three stood in a group embrace. Akira shook his head, "It's a long story Marietta, a lot has happened since we last met." Narciso's face was lit up in a smile. "You're telling me, 'Captain'!!" The three laughed until Marietta pulled out of the embrace and once again hooked her arm with Narciso's. "Akira, we'll need to catch up later. Narciso here is about to get a promotion!" Narciso looked up to Marietta with a strange look and she looked down. "Just kidding, though you ARE expected to become a commander soon. Haven't you done the bridge officers test?" Narciso rose an eyebrow and he replied. "I'm sure you'll be a commanding officer before me." Akira suddenly broke out laughing, "Now that's a scary thought!!" Marietta looked to him with wide eyes, "If I were Captain already the Borg would no longer be an issue. You have no idea how many reports i've filed in regards to tactical maneuvers and..." Narciso rose a hand and cut Marietta off, "Mari, I read those reports after you wrote them. Every maneuver is... umm... beyond the capabilities of normal helmsmen." Marietta scoffed and began to walk towards the door. "Starfleet simply needs to improve its training program." With that, Captain Sulu waved at the pair, Marietta dragging Narciso along as he returned the wave.


Inside the Admiral's office, Quinn rose an eyebrow at the pair and laughed softly seeing Marietta drag Narciso in, as was their norm. "Two officers reporting in Admiral." Marietta spoke, her tone somewhat serious and her French accent thick as usual. Her eyes glanced over towards T'oi, and she couldn't help but ponder how a man like him got to be in charge of a task force. Maybe he 'was' more skillful than he looked. Narciso broke away from Marietta's grip and walked towards the Admiral. As he did so the Admiral stood from his seat and moved around to the front of his desk. "Admiral Quinn, it's so good to see you again." Narciso said as he rose his hands and had them grasped by the Admirals' own. "Counselor you are looking well." Narciso bowed his head, "Thank you. My grandparents send their regards." The Admiral let out a hearty laugh and tilted his head back before talking again. "Those old relics? I cannot wait to speak with them again. Be sure to send them my own regards in return. I plan to visit both Betazed and Vulcan soon, should our little situation allow it. Now let's talk about why you were all gathered here." Narciso smiled softly before allowing his face to become serious. He stepped back and stood beside Marietta, who stood between him and T'oi.


Admiral Quinn leaned backwards onto his desks' edge. "I'm sure you read the reports Marietta had given to you both. The situation on the Borg front is... growing worse. We've lost many ships. T'oi, my condolences to the men in your task force, I know how close you are with them all."


"Thank you Graham, I appreciate the sentiments. We have all lost many friends this week. I have already started the process of personally writing the families. I understand the Corona was lost with all hands as well?"


At the mention of the Corona, Narciso flinched noticeably, his head tilting off to the side. A tear formed in the corner of his eyes. Marietta took his hand into her own, squeezing it softly. Narciso recomposed himself and returned his glance to the Admiral, who continued to speak. "Yes, T'oi, that would be a well received notion. As for the Corona, we never saw it coming. The Corona was a formidable ship. However it was caught off guard when providing assistance to a Romulan vessel that had drawn the attention of a Borg Sphere... All hands lost, however the Romulan vessel survived the assault. I am sure their sacrifice will not go unnoticed, counselor."


Marietta looked towards Narciso, "They have asked you to be present at the memorial." Narciso nodded his head, allowing the silence to be broken only by Quinn.


"Now, in response to these past events, we have taken a new course of action. We will be placing new ships under you direct command T'oi." As Quinn finished his sentence, the chime of the door was heard. "Ah, good. That should be someone I have been expecting to join us. Enter!" Admiral Quinn looked to the door as a Ferengi walked into the office. It was Commander Umax, the number one to Admiral T'oi. Everyone in the room turned their heads to look at the newcomer. Marietta's eyes went wide for a moment but her facial expression never changed. Narciso's face didn't give any sign of his immediate discomfort, but he inched closer to Marietta, raising his other hand and grasping her by her upper arm, and squeezing her hand a bit more. T'oi noticed immediately the discomfort that Narciso was feeling and remembered a certain incident in his file. "Allow me to introduce my First Officer, Commander Umax., Umax this is Lt. Commander Neves-Heliree and Lieutenant Marietta Geroff each to be atached to ships in the task force. I am pleased to see you, and I am even more pleased you managed to keep my ship one piece. I understand it was a living hell out there."


"Admiral, I apologize for everything, you placed the ship under my command and I failed you. We should have performed better, the loss of the ships was intolerable. All our friends and comrades... It was terrible."


Glancing over at Quinn, T'oi looked at Umax. "Commander, I do not recall any specific complaint filed by the Acting Task Force Commander, Rear-Admiral Artenais about your command or the performance of the Carl Sagan. In fact, I seem to recall reading about the Task Force being outgunned and overwhelmed by enemy numbers. Put in that light, Commander Umax, I must come to the conclusion that without your able command, and that of our fellow ship commanders, the losses would have been much worse. Take a piece of advice, Umax,don't fall on your sword, it's not warranted...you did not fail me or anyone else."


Quinn nodded his head in approval. "Vice-Admiral T'oi is right Commander, you and the Carl Sagan comported yourselves well and honorably, you will make a fine Captain. Soon, I might add."


"Now stop feeling sorry for yourself, Umax and say hello to Narciso and Marietta." T'oi said with a smile in his voice.


Marietta quickly cut in before Umax could say anything. "How do you do, a pleasure." She then turned to Quinn, "Admiral, we are tired and would rejuvenate ourselves. are we to go directly to our assigned ships in the drydock?"


Quinn looked over and rose an eyebrow to Marietta, understanding her wanting to not have Narciso and Umax exchange words. "Ah yes, yes Lt. The ships are finishing up their prelaunch procedures as we speak, and their respective crews are gathering now. It would be best for you all to make your ways there and board. A shuttle shall take you all to your ships. Counselor, I have good news for you which I will send later in private." Narciso's eyes caught Quinns and he wondered if this news was regarding the man who would be captaining the Oddyssey. Quinn stood up straight from his leaning position and moved behind his desk. He reached for something and placed it on the desks' surface. "Marietta. This is for you. It has been a long time coming now, and all your superior officers have voiced their opinions, rather loudly too. Sometimes to promote you just so you would get off their ships.. and onto your own of course, of course..." Quinn laughed loudly and slammed his palm onto the desk. He stood again and gestured for Marietta to come to his side. She complied and took her steps. Narciso let go of her, but she instantly grabbed him and dragged him behind her so they both stood before the Admiral. "Mari.. Marietta, you'll pull my arm out of its' socket if you keep doing that." Narciso complained softly, knowing that it was one habit she would never give up. His presence always soothed her, and she wouldn't have it any other way.


Admiral Quinn only laughed at the notion of Marietta wanting Narciso beside her, and he allowed it. "Marietta, it is my honor to present you with your new rank." Quinn grasped the small box and rose it to chest level, opening it like one would do with a wedding ring. "Congratulations Geroff. You shall henceforth be a Commander." Marietta's mouth opened, or better yet, her jaw dropped down so far it almost hit the floor. Narciso's eyes went wider than ever, and he spoke. "Marietta... You jumped to Commander!" Marietta's lips let off a low gasping noise. Narciso regained himself and shook her slightly. "Mari?? Mariiii??" His hands instantly shot up to his ears as he heard her reply: "HOLY SHIT THIS IS FREAKING AWESOME!!" At the top of her lungs, and boy was it loud enough to shatter the alloy making up the office. Quinn only laughed and took the rank insignia out of its case, giving it to her by placing it in the hands of no one else but her new commanding officer, T'oi. As she watched Quinn hand it to her she instantly cursed under her breath. And Narciso couldn't help but laugh uncontrollably as he read her thought of of punching the Vice-Admiral in the gut and throw away her promotion. 'It'll be worth it... it'll be so worth it...' Marietta thought to herself knowing that Narciso had picked up her thoughts. She straightened herself out and fixed her posture. She then walked to T'oi and stood waiting for him to pin it on her collar.


T'oi simply smiled and laughed, "Commander, you and I may not agree on everything, but this is well-deserved, and I am happy to pin your new rank on you. Serve Starfleet well...and kill as many Borg as you are able. We have friends to avenge, and I am honored to have you in Task Force 101. Welcome aboard."


Marietta's lip twitched a bit as T'oi laughed and smiled. On one level she wanted to beat him to an inch of his life for thinking he could have Narciso. On the other hand, She could not agree with him more. The Borg cannot be reasoned with. they are a virus that needs to be quarantined and exterminated. She had already dealt with drones who had been former comrades... she freed them of their pain. "It will be an honor to assist you Vice-Admiral. May the Borg tremble at our coming presence." Marietta bowed and then rose a hand, shaking T'oi's in this new budding 'friendship' with T'oi. If anything could join her and T'oi together, it would be the killing of the Borg. And hopefully no one will say that they can open a communication with the Borg species. Last person who spoke such 'filth' in front of Marietta ended up in a sickbay with their jaw dislocated.


Quinn smiled at the exchange between T'oi and Marietta. As they concluded their small celebration, He then turned to face everyone, grasping another box identical in design to the first one. "One final piece of offical business. Vice-Admiral... T'oi. will you join me please." T'oi looked to Quinn and nodded, a soft smile on his face as he walked and stood beside the Admiral. They both looked to Umax and Quinn spoke. "You know, Commander. I have gotten many upon many recommendations for you. That coupled with your service record. I am pleased to announce that you are now, henceforth, a Captain of Starfleet. And it is my honor, to present you with your own ship, the Kumari class escort, USS Gladius Arc. Congratulations Captain!" Quinn and T'oi broke out into an applause, Marietta did as well, seeing as the Ferengi was to be her Captain and she his First Officer. Narciso applauded as well, softly. T'oi stepped forward and pinned the new rank insignia on Umax. "Well done. I am so glad Umax. It is far overdue." Umax smiled wildly, causing Narciso to sweat a bit.


Admiral Quinn nodded in agreement and took his seat. "Now, that concludes everything save one last thing I must mention. T'oi. The Carl Sagan has been placed into drydock and is undergoing repairs. She faces being decommissioned, but we are trying to pull her through. However, I do regret to say that she will not be leaving drydock for a long time. Instead, I have taken provence and have commissioned a new ship. One properly fitting your rank as a Task Force Leader. You shall be given command of the new Vesta Class vessel, the USS Metamorphoses. Treat her well Admiral. Now, to all of you... Godspeed." Quinn stood one final time as he spoke his last word, and rose a hand to give a salute. Marietta, T'oi and Umax returned the salute, Narciso bowed his head in respect. He never was one for military practices. Marietta gave Narciso a smile and took her leave of the office, T'oi and Umax followed behind her, speaking to each other. As soon as the door closed behind the three, Marietta could be heard screaming at the top of her lungs in celebration. "OH HELL YEAH!!! COMMANDER RANK!!!!" A sudden 'thud' echoed out as though something slammed into the wall, no doubt it was caused by Marietta. She could bring the entire spacedock down if she wanted to... Many people question if she is human...


Narciso stayed behind in the office, and walked to the desk. resting his hands on the surface. "Admiral..."


Quinn looked up to him, seeing the concern on his face. "You never speak so formally unless you are worried. What is wrong?"


Narciso turned his head slightly, unable to look Quinn in the eyes as he asked this. "Who is going to be commanding the Oddyssey that I am to be stationed on?"


Quinn stopped what he was doing, putting down the datapad completely and looked to Narciso, who forced himself to look. "You mean the Evita Magdylena? The commanding officer, will be Reaver."


Narciso almost fell over at the name. "How could you assign him to command?"


"Quinn shook his head. "I had no say in the matter. He demanded it! He even pressed the Starfleet council for it. He has extreme leeway with them. Heck he was almost made the Task Force commander! It was only the fact that T'oi has significant experience with the Task Force that he kept his position. Reaver shall act as his Vice-Commander."


"Admiral... Quinn... You know the situation that has emerged-"


"Yes, yes counselor. I know. And so does Reaver. to be frank I believe that was his reason to gain command. I thought you would be happy with this."


"I.. I am happy to be with him again. The last time we were together was shore leave on Risa... I just want him safe."


"Just as he wants you safe. Go on counselor. He is waiting for you on the Evita Magdylena...."

*I want to be under cearulean skies...*
*With you in my arms...*
*We'll lay together in the sand..*
*And let time pass by...*


---------


"I understand. Thank you Graham." Narciso bowed and turned, taking leave of the office. As he walked out he noticed that Marietta, T'oi and Umax had been waiting for him. Marietta was still jumping around the space in front of the office, showing off her new rank to everyone, and most of them actually knew her or at least of her. She stopped as she noticed Narciso appear, with a smile on his face. She was instantly beside him, almost by teleportation at her speed. "We've been waiting. Come on, the shuttle is waiting for us." She hooked her arm into his and they walked with a haste towards the hanger. Marietta walked with Narciso in front, with Umax and T'oi bringing up the rear. Each talking with the other, Marietta building serious rapport with Umax, trying to show Narciso that this Ferengi was alright. As they entered the hangar bay, they were greeted by a shuttle pilot and made to board a Danube Runabout. In the old tradition, the shuttle took leave of the Spacedock and made its way to the drydocks nearby. "First up, USS Evita Magdylena." The pilot spoke as he turned the shuttle into the drydocks, taking her in between each station. He maneuvered in a way that made it impossible for anyone to see the ship until it was close enough to take in all its beauty. He turned slightly, and the bow of the Oddyssey began to come into view. The decks came into view, the deflector array leading them, and to finish it were those massive nacelles. Narciso and Marietta both gasped at the beauty of the ship. She was specially designed by Starfleet, a massive though sleek vessel. "Oh Narciso," cried out Marietta, "she's absolutely beautiful..." Narciso nodded, as he was speechless. It was astonishing how they had such large vessels. In fact, this was the largest in Starfleet thus far.


The shuttle pulled into a hangar located in the aft of the vessel. an aquarius escort could be seen below them, attached to the Oddyssey. A ship within a ship. Astonishing achievement. The shuttle landed with an experienced ease the pilot had acquired over his years. Narciso stood, Marietta did the same and captured him in a Death grip of an embrace. "Little one, I'll always be right next to you, so don't you fret." Narciso returned the embrace. "I know Mari... I know. I'll see you soon, we can easily talk with each other once we board. Narciso had to be the one to break the hug, otherwise Marietta would never have let him go. Narciso exited the shuttle, and was already amazed by the sheer size of the hanger. Marietta reluctantly took her seat again, and delivered a swift kick to the pilots' seat. "Hurry and get me to the Gladius Arc. The sooner I get there the sooner I can improve her weaponry!" The pilot would have been annoyed, were it anyone else. But Marietta's reputation proceeds her constantly. "Yes ma'am!" He shouted as he took the shuttle out faster than regulations would allow for. This however, brought a smile to her lips.


The shuttle was instantly within range of the Kumari Class Escort, the USS Gladius Arc. It took a mere second to dock, as the pliot never bothered to slow down when entering the hangar. Once it landed and came to a stop, Marietta and Umax both stood. Marietta almost delivered a roundhouse kick to Umax, since he stood there in her way off disembarking the shuttle in order to speak with T'oi. "Umax, Marietta, good hunting...and keep him safe..." Umax gave a salute, "Yes Admiral!" And with a smile he left the shuttle. Marietta took a second to give a strong pat to the pilots back. "Good flying there Tex! Keep it up and be sure to apply for a position on an actual Starfleet ship. We need pilots with your talent." She turned and moved to exit, but she looked to T'oi. "Good hunting indeed. Just make sure the Borg is all you go after." Before T'oi could retort, she moved off the shuttle and the door closed behind her.


The pilot started the engines again and the shuttle took off. The last dropoff would be for T'oi, and his ship was a subtle beauty. It came into range and T'ois eyes lit up. The Vesta was an extremely Versatile ship. Capable of support and of a direct assult. Much like T'oi himself. One could say the ship matched him completely. The shuttle landed in one of the hangar bays that was almost empty. The Vesta had many hangars, but the others were stocked with Delta Flyers, an upgrade given by Admiral Quinn. T'oi left the shuttle, placing his feet on the floor of his new command. His new First Officer, was a person he knew extremely well. It was Commandar Ticklhiem. The mans' Jem'Hadar features made him clearly stand out from the rest of the crew. A Jem'Hadar in Starfleet was extremely rare after all.


"Admiral on deck! Attention!"


At ease everyone, we have work to do. Congratulations Tik, report."


The Jem'Hadar looked at T'oi, "You might want to read the datapad, sir and then I will elaborate."


T'oi grabbed the pad and started reading, Artenais was relieved as Vice-Commander of the Task Force and his new Vice-Commander was Captain of the Evita Magdylena, one Rear-Admiral Reaver. Service appendix followed...T'oi looked briefly astonished and then was disgusted. Artenais was a good man but expediency demanded he be replaced. The order from Quinn made it clear that this was not his decision but that of Commander-Starfleet. Sometimes Starfleet politics irritated T'oi. First on his agenda would be to have Revaer report to him so they could talk about the upcoming engagement. Something was tickling at the back of T'oi's mind, then it struck him, Reaver was the First Officer of the Adonis trapped on the surface when the Borg attacked. Outstanding service record, so T'oi would have little to worry about on that front.


"Tik, my compliments to Rear-Admiral Reaver, he is to report to me at 1800 hours for a Senior Command Conference. I need you to start assigning Element Commanders while Admiral Reaver and I talk. I think the Flag Cabin will be suitable. Is the crew ready?"


"Yes, sir."


Good, we make way no later than 2100 for the Borg front, oh...and Tik?"


"Sir?"


"I want all of the tactical reports written by Commander Geroff, we need some unconventional thinking to defeat the Borg...and put Umax and Geroff in Command of TF Element One."


"Sir, I have read her reports...they are unconventional but I suspect will be highly effective. The 'Delta Attack' in particular is... quite intriguing if I may say so myself. It is a combination of several critically adjoined components that when done with precision, can theoreticaly, destroy a fully armed Tactical Borg Cube. It is.. quite potent. But there are many, many extreme risks involved. The manuever itself requires three ships to act in tandem to be performed. It is no wonder Starfleet has put it away for study only, not practice. If I may sir, this Geroff is a mad woman to have invented such a maneuver. I am rather fond of her work."


"High praise ideed, Tik. I want full implementation available, I want to support this personally, thus...if we need to implement it crews from the Evita, Metamorphoses, and Gladius Arc...and if word of this leaks back to Starfleet? I will personally break that person, clear? I don't have time for theorists who are afraid of the practical point of a sword."


"Yes sir, Admiral! However, there must be modifications, or as this Geroff put 'serious improvements' done to the deflector arrays. She has provided these specifications. I believe them to be doable once we leave drydock. I'll have any required supplies sent to us before we leave as 'repair stock'."


"Are those specifications trustworthy, Tik?"


"It would seem so. She didn't do these alone, the report indicates that she was aided in these studies by a one Narciso Neves-Heliree, a Starfleet Scientist."


"Ah, excellent. I know him. The calculations will be spot on, Commander."


"Understood sir. I shall send these orders of implentation to the specefied crews once we depart. Will that be all sir? If so, I'll send word to Admiral Reaver now."


"Very well, carry on Commander."


Narciso walked along the hallway of the gigantic Oddyssey. His hand brushed the sides of the wall as he moved, slowly building up a rapport with the ship itself. It was something he had always done. He believed the ships to be a living thing, not merely computers and wires and alloy. They were harbingers... Entities. Narciso found himself on the turbolift. "Computer... Where is Rear-Admiral Reaver?" the computer chimed, a soft female voice replied. "The commanding officer is located on the bridge within the Captains' ready room." Narciso bowed his head. "Thank you. Take me to the bridge please." The computer chimed once more and the turbolift was instantly moving. As the doors opened Narciso laid his eyes on the bridge of an Oddyssey for the first time. It was so beautiful. He walked onto the Bridge, noticing all the people within, running about getting the ship ready for departure. He smiled and nodded to all who looked to him as he made his way to the ready room. When he came to the door, he pushed the console and allowed the chime to occur. A voice called out to him telepathically. "You never have to ring and you know that." A smile instantly spread on his lips. The doors opened for him and he walked in, seeing a dark haired man sitting at the desk. The man stood, his height was six feet and six inches. His shoulders broad and strong with muscle, as was the rest of him. A large smile formed on the mans' face as he put his eyes on Narciso. His lips parted and a strong, deep voice came out in the form of a single word. "Imzadi..."


Narciso's eyes quickly teared up, and they began to pour onto the floor. Narciso broke into a sprint, falling into the mans' arms. "I thought you were on the Corona!! I thought you had died!!"


The man grasped Narciso as he crashed into him, the counselor's arms wrapped around him. His own arms warpped around Narciso, a hand on the back of his head, stroking the hair softly, holding him close. "I know... I know. Marietta told me. I told her to tell you right away, instead she must have left you hanging. Then again, she knew you wouldn't believe it unless you had me in your arms again."


Narciso laughed through his tears. "For a second there, when talking to Admiral Quinn, I thought my Grandfather had forced his way in to protect me."


The man tilted his head back, laughing loudly, his voice rich. "That Betazoid Grandfather of yours almost did! He could feel anything in the universe! But yes, he did throw quite the fit."


Narciso tilted his head back, no longer leaning it against the mans' chiseled chest. "Kenneath..."


"Shh... I know. But nothing has to be said and done yet. So drive away your tears. I live, and I would feel this moment... with you in my arms once again." Kenneath tightend his embrace, drawing Narciso in as close as possible. "Just let me feel this moment..." They held the embrace, but were soon interupted by the doors chime. "Come in." Kenneath called out, not letting go of Narciso. The person who came in was an ensign. "Excuse me sir, there is a transmission for you. I've sent it to your monitor here." Kenneath nodded and dismissed the ensign. He reached behind him and turned his monitor to face both himself and Narciso, then opened the transmission. The first thing they saw were large breasts, and a woman screaming at officers. "Hey! hurry up and get that station prepared! The tactical console needs the be well kept!" The accent alone was enough to give the person away, let alone the huge bust line. The woman sat back down on her seat, and her face was suddenly visible again. Kenneath smiled and spoke. "Marietta, I'm happy to see you, Commander!" Marietta laughed and swayed her hand. "Oh, Kenneath you old flirt you," she joked, "I see Narciso got to you. Good! I didn't know how to tell him you were alive. He's so sensitive, he was overloaded with the loss of everyone, that he couldn't even sense you were still breathing." Kenneath nodded, and Marietta continued to speak. "We got word on the Gladius Arc that we'll be departing at 2100 hours, the latest. But these ensigns are so slow!! I swear that they need a good whippin'! I should get my switch and get at them. But, they do show promise. Anyways, I called to make sure you two found each other and to tell you, Narciso, that I got word from Vice-Admiral T'oi in regards to our little side-projects. He'll be sending you the announcement too if he hasn't yet. Anyways I need to get going- HEY!!! THAT DOESN'T GO THERE MORON!! WHAT ARE YOU DOING ON THE BRIDGE!?!? GET YOUR ASS TO-" Before the rest could be heard, the connection was cut with a loud 'thud'.


Kenneath turned the monitor off, and returned his attention to Narciso. "We have a lot of work to get done. I still need to show you your lab and-" Once more the door chimed, interupting what Kenneath was saying. "come in." Once more the same ensign entered the ready room. "Sir, Vice-Admiral and Task Force Commander T'oi's Ship is hailing us. They are on the viewscreen." Kenneath nodded, "Thank you, I'll be there shortly." The ensign left and Kenneath looked down to Narciso, placing a kiss on his forehead. "Come on, I need to show you to your seat." He smiled, and let go of the embrace, taking Narciso by his hand. He led him out onto the bridge, three main seats with two other small seats, one on each side. Kenneath sat in the middle chair and gestured to the one on his left. "This is your chair. You are the Commanding Science Officer on this ship." Kenneath smiled and Narciso's eyes went wide. Kenneath stood with a giant smile on his face. "That's right. You have been promoted to Commander." He embraced Narciso, and whispered in his ear. "Congrats baby... I know how hard it's been for you." Narciso rose his hands and embraced Kenneath, who spoke again. "I told Quinn that I wanted to tell you myself. He was thrilled with the idea."


Kenneath stood up straight, then took his seat as Narciso took his. The veiwscreen came on, showing the Metamorphoses' First Officer, the Jem'Hadar known was Ticklhiem. Narciso instantly froze up, and Kenneath grew stern. He too did not hold the Jem'Hadar in the highest of Standings...

The Intwined Saga will return after hiatus very soon. Please keep your eyes peeled for the next chapter returning to a Holodeck near you.

Brought to you by Narciso and T'oi.

~J