AN: This was inspired by PreludeInZ's 'Heavenward' series as well as the portrayal of the Hood's powers in TOS and the movie.

Four: The Power of Suggestion

Someone is messing with John…

Maybe he's tired. Maybe he's too tired. Maybe he's been up for too long this time, and should take a break. Maybe he's coming down with something.

Whatever it is, it's bad, because when the voice comes into his dreams that night, he finds himself listening.

They don't understand, do they, John?

He rolls his head to the other side, eyelids twitching. If there were anyone within earshot, they would hear muttering, a sleepy growl.

They don't understand about her.

"Mm."

They'll never understand.

A sigh. The twitch of gloved fingers.

You have to protect her, John.

Flop of the head to the other side. "Huh."

They'll take her. They'll use her. Then they'll destroy her.

"No." Eyelids flicker; a glimpse of sea-green.

You can do it, John. The two of you are unstoppable. Together you can bring the world to its knees. No one will take her from you then.

A light snore.

Are you listening, John?

"Mmh. Yes."

Then you know what you have to do. Wake up and do it.

A gasp. Sea-green eyes flare open, muscles go rigid. Heartbeat skitters, then calms. Breathing slows.

The white lights sparkle into life around the edge of the camera. "Good morning, John," EOS says pleasantly. "You're up early."

"Good morning," he replies. "We have a lot to do today." A slow smile spreads across his face. "I thought we should get an early start."