Author's Note: I already briefly referenced this story in "The Naughty List" but decided it was too humorous not to do a full individual story. So I hope you enjoy this. I do not own Star Trek or any of the characters.
Data was about to finish preparing what he hoped would be the best Thanksgiving dinner ever. He even cooked everything all by himself without the use of replicators. He hoped that he didn't overdo it on the salt and pepper. He waited for everyone to arrive and wished that they all would enjoy it.
One by one the bridge crew, Dr. Crusher, and Geordi arrived to celebrate Thanksgiving. They sat down to eat and Data unveiled a surprising sight. The turkey was alive!
"Data, what is the meaning of this?!" Picard asked angrily.
"Is this not the traditional Thanksgiving dinner?" Data asked completely clueless as to what exactly he did wrong.
The turkey made a sort of clucking sound and Geordi shook his head.
"Data, it's not supposed to be a live turkey." Geordi told him gently.
"I see." Data replied looking "disappointed".
"Mr. Data I expect you to remove this animal appropriately." Picard said.
"Yes, sir."
Data was about to place the turkey back in its cage when it made a run for it. Feathers were spread everywhere as it ran wildly. Somehow it escaped Data's quarters and ran freely around the ship. It startled several crew members as it ran quickly by. Meanwhile, Worf was at the edge of his seat practically begging silently to give chase to this animal. Picard gave a silent nod of approval and Worf quickly jumped up and followed the turkey.
Fortunately, some children found it first. They were trying to pet the turkey only to be peaked at. Thankfully, none of the children were seriously injured. Worf arrived at the scene and picked up the turkey by the neck. He would have crushed it right then and there if it not for a science officer.
"Wait!" She exclaimed, "I'll take care of it."
Worf reluctantly handed her the turkey realizing he couldn't crush it in front of a bunch of little kids. Picard and Data caught up with Worf.
"I'll take care of it sir. I promise. You'll never have to worry about it again. Just let me keep it." The science officer begged when she saw Picard.
"You'll keep it in your quarters?" Picard asked.
"Yes. Yes I will."
"And you'll feed it?"
"Of course!"
"And you'll train it? I don't want to hear any reports of anyone getting bitten."
"Certainly, sir. He'll be just like a well behaved dog."
"Good. Then you can keep it."
The science officer jumped in glee and took the turkey to her quarters. She followed Picard's rules to a tee and the turkey was soon fat and happy in its new home.
Author's Note: Cute little story I hope. Review and tell me what you thought of it and please no flames. I worked very hard on this one.