Chapter 25

Disclaimer: I do not own Star Trek: The Next Generation or any of the show's characters. Other characters not affiliated with the show are my own creation and do belong to me. Thank you.

A/N: Thank you so far to those that have read and/or left reviews. It makes me very happy that people are enjoying my story.

The familiar hum of the Enterprise soothed Captain Picard's tired nerves. Exiting the shuttlecraft, he took a moment to reflect on all he'd witnessed, all he'd experienced, down on the planet's surface.

Guinan touched his arm, bringing him back from his thoughts. "Captain, how are you doing?"

"Still processing it all," Picard responded with a forced smile. "You?"

"The same." Guinan frowned. "Would you like me to accompany you?"

Picard appreciated the gesture, but he'd make his report in private. He didn't want his people being held culpable for his decisions.

"Thank you, Guinan, but that won't be necessary. I'll let you know when I'm finished. You should head to sickbay. Have them take a closer look at your arm."

A gentle smile spread across her lips. "Okay. Just don't head back down there without me."

Picard watched her depart. When the bay doors swished closed behind his friend and confidant, he took a deep breath and headed for his ready room.

He took his time. Bypassing a number of turbolifts, Picard wanted to ensure he was focused. Seeing his crew, greeting them as they headed about the passageways, helped center his mind. Helped him justify what he needed to do. He was charged with keeping these people, and their families, safe. This was their home as much as it was his. And just like the men he'd come to know down on the snow-covered planet, he would do whatever was necessary to protect them. Even if that meant sacrificing his own life.

Eventually he made his way into a lift and headed for the bridge. After a brief stop to inform Data of the mission status and relay preliminary orders, he finally stepped into his ready room, over an hour after he'd arrived back aboard his ship.

He decided to forgo a cup of earl grey. He'd stalled long enough. And the sooner he got the report over with, the sooner he could conclude his business here.

Taking a seat behind his desk, Picard's fingers hovered over the monitor controls. He took a deep breath, straightened his posture and made the call.

Almost immediately the stern face of Admiral Yamoto appeared on the screen before him. "Captain Picard. I was beginning to think you'd forgotten Starfleet reporting procedures."

Picard kept his features neutral. "Admiral, I apologize for the delay. I only just returned to the Enterprise."

"I trust you have not returned alone," Yamoto responded harshly.

Picard sucked in a breath. "Actually, Admiral, I have."

Yamoto's face darkened. "Explain, Captain. Explain to me why you've disobeyed a direct order."

Here it goes.

"I wouldn't categorize my actions as disobeying orders, Admiral. I could not bring the three augments back with me because they're dead."

Yamoto's eyelids narrowed. Picard knew the man was contemplating whether or not to believe Picard's words. After a long pause, Yamoto said one word. "How?"

"Killed in fighting with their enemies down on the planet, Admiral," Picard stated. The words started to flow. "The augments had become entrenched with one faction on the planet. That faction was at war with another. Fighting to rule over the capital and therefore central control of the region."

"I don't need a history lesson, Captain," Yamoto snapped.

Picard sucked in a breath between his pursed lips.

Yamoto continued. "Did you witness their deaths?"

Picard didn't hesitate. "I did. In fact, the only reason I and my officers managed to survive is because those men fought long enough to give us time to escape."

"How admirable of them," Yamoto sneered. His nose curled upward in disgust as he spoke.

Picard hated the look on his superior's visage. "They died for us,-"

Yamoto cut him off. "Even dead they should be transported back to Earth."

Picard had anticipated this. "Admiral, we could not bring their bodies back. Those men had been made citizens of that planet. At the time they left Earth, neither Starfleet nor the Federation existed. They were not Federation citizens. We have no claim to their bodies. And even if we did, it doesn't matter anymore."

"Why is that, Captain?"

"Because as part of their culture's tradition their bodies were cremated and their ashes buried in their final resting places amongst their honored dead. Admiral, this is over. There is nothing left for us on Sardis."

Yamoto appeared to be processing the information. He might not believe Picard's story, but Picard's integrity was well known throughout Starfleet. It wasn't often he was questioned.

And Picard was betting on the fact that even if Yamoto didn't believe him, the Admiral would not pursue the matter. To do so could implicate himself, and his as yet to be identified cohort, in the mission that sent Dickerson to steal the bark extract and kill or capture Prazak and his people to begin with.

Perhaps I should have joined Beverly and the others for their poker games after all. Is it time to play my next hand?

He decided to go with it. "Admiral, Lieutenant Dickerson is also dead."

Picard observed how Yamoto's eyes subtly shifted. He didn't wait for Yamoto's response. Continuing on, Picard explained, "Dickerson had been found to have consorted with Prazak's enemies. He was also responsible for kidnapping Doctor Crusher and for the direct deaths of a number of the native inhabitants."

"Is that so?" Yamoto drawled.

"The man was clearly mentally disturbed. It was confirmed that he had been regularly ingesting a native substance believing it could prolong his life. However, it warped his mind and drove him insane."

Yamoto waved a dismissive hand. "Supposition at best, Captain."

"Is it, Admiral? We did learn some interesting facts about Matthew Dickerson."

Yamoto stiffened. "I'm not entirely sure this is a road you want to travel, Captain Picard."

Picard remained undeterred. "According to Starfleet records, Dickerson had died on Starbase 189 in an unfortunate accident. He'd been sent there for examination and was being dismissed from Starfleet Intelligence. His medical history showed he was clearly unfit for duty in Starfleet to begin with. Yet, not only was he an operative in SI, he somehow ended up on a planet, alive, after he was already listed as being deceased. He more than likely killed his fellow operatives that were sent on this unsanctioned mission. He languished in isolation and his mind deteriorated. Someone used him as a pawn. Someone that knew of his history and exploited it for his own advantage. And that person left him to die. Matthew Dickerson was a criminal, but he was also a victim."

Now it was clear that Yamoto was holding back his anger. His cheeks collapsed as he sucked in his breath and he'd turned red about the face. "I'm not sure I like your implications, Picard."

"I am not here to please or displease you, Admiral," Picard stated. "I am telling you the facts as they stand. Starfleet has no business with Sardis anymore. What's done cannot be undone. Leave it be, Admiral. Not only for the sake of those that live on this planet, but for your own as well."

Yamoto's lips were pursued. "You have no proof."

"Perhaps, but perhaps not," Picard pointed out. "Are you willing to stake your reputation on that assumption? Because I, Admiral, am willing to stake mine. I was also surprised to learn that you, Admiral Yamoto, were also at Starbase 189 at the same time that Dickerson allegedly died."

Picard didn't think the Admiral's face could get any redder. But it did. Picard knew he had him. "The inhabitants of this planet do not possess warp capability. As established by the Prime Directive, Starfleet has no business interfering with their natural progression."

A voice from off screen spoke up. Picard guessed it was Yamoto's partner in crime. "Captain Picard, need you be reminded that you violated the Prime Directive when you interacted with the natives?"

Picard's lips curled downward. "My official report will cover the violation. However, as we all know, we were responding to a Starfleet distress beacon. A distress beacon that had been activated by Dickerson. My people were captured. I lost an Ensign on that planet. Do you know why we could not recover Ensign Rhodes' body, Admiral? It was because his killers ate him. Andrej Prazak rescued my other officers from that same fate. And he paid for that with his own life. If Starfleet decides to reprimand me for that violation, then so be it. I will gladly accept. However, gentlemen, I can assure you, if you pursue any action against myself or my crew for anything else, or if Starfleet contacts this planet, more will come out. Again, for your sake, I highly recommend this ends here."

There was a lengthy pause. Picard studied Yamoto's face. Observing how the Admiral's demeanor had suddenly changed from anger to nervousness. His eyes twitched, but he kept looking towards his comrade off screen. Picard hadn't recognized the voice. He wished the man would show himself, but he knew that was hopeless. Yamoto's confederate was too smart for that. He was using Yamoto as a fall guy, just as they had used Dickerson.

Finally Yamoto looked back at the screen. "I look forward to reading your official report, Captain. In the meantime, the Enterprise is to report to Starbase 113."

"The Enterprise will return to Starbase 113 in due time. Picard out." He ended the transmission before the Admiral could say any more.

The first thing he noticed when he woke was that he couldn't move his legs. Instantly his heart pounded harder in his chest. His eyelids were heavy and he was having difficulty opening them fully.

No. I can't be paralyzed!

A hand came to rest on his shoulder. "You're not paralyzed, Andrej. Relax. Just relax."

He hadn't realized he'd spoken out loud. His heart still pounded. He blinked a number of times; rapidly at first, but then slower so he could focus. The blurriness faded. He was in his own bedroom. In his bed. His neck was stiff, so he glanced towards the speaker with only his eyes.

"Deanna," he said. "Why are you here?"

"I was worried about you. Everyone was," she replied. "When you collapsed…"

"My legs," he interrupted. His throat felt dry, but he needed to communicate.

Deanna smiled. "Like I said, everyone was worried about you."

She slipped one arm under his upper back while the other held his arm, assisting him in sitting up. She kept her hands in place to steady him. Slowly he worked the stiffness from his neck, joints, and muscles.

Prazak smiled. Zoja was lying on the thick fur blanket that covered his legs. When their eyes met, the big cat huffed a short whine and her eyes turned ice blue.

"She's been with you ever since they brought you up here. Not even Herschel and Marking could get her to leave your side. She wouldn't even take the treats Marking offered."

Leaning forward, Prazak grasped Zoja's jaws in his hands as the cat scooted closer to his lap. He ran his thumbs along her jaw and scratched the underside of her chin. Deep rumbling purrs vibrated from her chest. He leaned forward a bit more to plant a kiss on the top of the animal's head. He inhaled sharply and winced. He settled for scratching at her ears.

"You're not fully recovered," Deanna explained.

"Again, why are you here? I mean, still here. On Sardis."

"Captain Picard felt things were not yet settled," Deanna responded somewhat cryptically.

"He's going to detain me, isn't he? If not for his original claim, but for killing Dickerson," Prazak stated dryly. He looked into her eyes. "I do not regret what I did, Deanna."

"It's not that, Andrej. I'll let him tell you himself, but I don't think you have anything to fear from us or Starfleet anymore."

Prazak accepted that. He changed the subject. "How long have I been out?"

Deanna chuckled. "Four days. Your body's healing abilities are amazing. Most men would be laid up for weeks or would have died from the amount of blood you lost. You were rushed to the infirmary after you collapsed. Doctor Belan and Doctor Crusher immediately performed surgery and stopped the bleeding, both externally and internally. When Dickerson stabbed you, he managed to pierce vital organs. No one was entirely sure you'd make it. Well, no one other than Herschel and Marking that is."

Prazak frowned. Four days. A lot could have happened in that time. "What's happened since the battle?"

Deanna seemed to understand what he was asking. "The Ti'hi surrendered. Herschel took charge and ordered your forces to round up and process that prisoners. The shaman and Lieutenant are being held separately. I heard Empress Tarina would not start discussing terms without you present. Lady Sa is still in the infirmary. She's stable and the baby is fine."

"I have to go," Prazak said. He shifted his legs beneath the blanket. Zoja huffed, but carefully jumped off the bed.

"Andrej," Deanna protested. "You really should rest. The fighting is over. You defeated your enemies."

"Deanna, I'm fine. I don't need to lie in bed any longer."

Lifting the blanket, he realized he was naked. Even though Deanna had seen him nude, he still hesitated. In that moment, he found himself wishing he could be with her again. Just one more time. To feel her smooth, delicate skin on his, to taste her lips, her tongue. To run his hands through her thick, beautiful hair. To experience every inch of her as she reciprocated the pleasure unto him.

Their connection had been intense. Exhilarating. Both physically and emotionally. It had been more than Prazak had experienced in a long time. And no matter how his future with Lady Sa turned out, he'd always have a place in his heart for Deanna Troi. No one else could fill it. He knew that beyond a shadow of a doubt.

The edges of Deanna's lips upturned. Prazak wondered if she was thinking the same as he was. He wouldn't probe her mind to find out. "Deanna?" he asked.

"Andrej," she started. After a brief pause, her smile brightened. "I know what you're thinking."

Andrej smiled too. "That obvious?"

She nodded. "Don't think I'm not having the same thoughts. But we...can't. It wouldn't be right."

Prazak frowned. "I know. But it would be fun."

That made her burst out in laughter. She wiped at her eyes and replied, "Since you insist on getting out of that bed you'll need to freshen up. If you want, I'll wait for you in the front room."

"I'd like that," he answered, still smiling.

"Come on, Zoja. Your master needs to shower." Deanna patted her leg.

Zoja looked between her and Prazak. "Go with her, dear," he told the big cat.

Zoja mewed and went to Deanna's side. She turned to go, but Andrej cleared his throat. It was still dry, but he pushed through it.

"I won't take long," Prazak stated with a grin. "Have a drink if you'd like."

Deanna smiled again. She turned and left the bedroom. Prazak watched her go. He sighed. He really was going to miss her.

Recovery and reconstruction had started almost immediately after the battle that had destroyed much of Sardis Proper's infrastructure. So when Picard and Guinan returned to the surface, Picard found himself humbled by the hard work and determination of the citizens.

His away team had met him at the shuttlecraft and the group was headed to the Empress' Tower. For one of the first times, Picard and his people were left to traverse the city unescorted. The rain had stopped two days prior and once again it had started to snow. From some of the conversations he overheard as they walked, Picard concluded that winter was approaching. It felt odd. One would think that on a snow covered planet it was always winter, but from what he could gather, that was not necessarily the case here. He was grateful he and his crew would be on their way to Starbase 113 before they experienced it. The experiences they would be taking with them was more than enough for Picard at the moment.

"We've assisted with the recovery however we could," Riker was saying, "but the people here seem to be doing just fine without us."

Picard nodded. "They are nothing if not resilient."

"Word has it that delegations from both the Huron and Corq have recently arrived as well," Riker reported. "It seems the Corq want to see the pirates from their lands are dealt the justice their own brand of justice."

"It sounds as if piracy is a black stain on the Corq Government," Troi added. "So much that the rumor is the captured pirates would rather face Sardis justice rather than their own."

Picard smirked. "Sardis justice appears to be dealt out by Prazak's longsword. It makes you wonder what type of punishment could be worse than that."

They reached the Empress' Tower. The doors were guarded, but they were allowed entrance without being challenged or asked to wait. The inside of the Tower was bustling with just as much activity as the town outside. People moved hurriedly about, their duties taking them to and fro without even glances towards the newcomers. Picard had become so familiar with the place that he strode confidently through the throngs of people; leading his team to the Empress' Great Hall.

Twenty minutes, and a plethora of stone staircases, later, the Enterprise crew arrived at the hall. Again, they were allowed entry without hesitation or delay.

The inside of the hall was not nearly as crowded as other areas of Sardis' seat of power, but there was still activity. Picard spied Prazak, Colonel Marking and some nobles in deep talks at the main table. He did not see the Empress or General Herschel.

Making his way forward, he came to stand next to the last occupied seat, which was about half way down the long wooden table. Prazak was seated at the head of the table and while he looked a bit tired, he did not appear to be outwardly suffering from his wounds he'd received only days prior.

When their eyes met, Prazak stood. The others at the table mirrored him. Picard noted that even in discussions the General was armed with his longsword, yet he was not wearing any armor; his wounds probably made the armor uncomfortable and burdensome. Instead he wore more formal clothing. His pants were dark and well tailored to fit his muscled legs. His long sleeve shirt was a light gray color that buttoned down the front. As finely tailored as his pants, the shirt fit his upper body perfectly and he wore the top few buttons undone. His hair was neatly swept back and the stubble on his jaw line and chin were finely trimmed. Even Picard couldn't resist admiring Prazak's fine physique.

"Gentlemen, ladies," Prazak gestured at the seats, "we've been discussing some of the details and outcomes of the battle while we await the Empress and the delegates."

Picard nodded. "Thank you."

Everyone sat back down. Prazak said, "We were just discussing battle damage assessments."

Marking glanced at the new arrivals, then back to the padd in his hands. "As I was saying, our losses were not as great as we first assumed. As of last count, there were 631 wounded and 304 killed in action. The Ti'hi lost over triple that number. Yet, some of our people are still missing. Search crews continue to work day and night. I know we lost some down at the docks and during the subsequent boarding of the Corq vessels. It will take some time to recover their bodies."

Picard knew that after the battle, Colonel Marking had led a boarding raid to the Corq ships in their harbor. He knew because Worf had volunteered to accompany the Colonel and his scouts. He had not yet received a debrief from Worf.

Marking turned his attention back to Prazak. "Most of the Corq that remained on board surrendered to us almost immediately. Those that fought us were killed. We burned and scuttled their ships after clearing out any useful supplies."

One of the nobles, a young man with fine clothing and light brown hair sighed. "The Corq delegation is sure to be perturbed with the loss of those ships. We'll probably have to dip into the treasury to pay for them."

"A small price to pay to prevent those criminals from escaping," Marking snorted. Picard heard Worf grunt in agreement with the Colonel.

"You could have done without burning the ships, John," Prazak stated.

Marking huffed. "Bah! We had no intention of sinking those ships. The first one was actually set aflame by their own people thinking they'd kill us along with themselves."

"And the other ships?" Prazak asked.

Marking shrugged.

"Right," Prazak chuckled. "I have no doubt the Empress is working out the payment arrangements with the delegates. As well as make a determination as to the fate of the surviving pirates."

Guinan was shaking her head. "Pirates invade your lands and you have to pay for their ships? Sounds a bit outlandish."

Prazak nodded. Marking agreed. "True, but the Corq are a strange lot. We have good trade relations with them, so its in our best interest to see they are kept happy."

"Maybe you should have thought about that before you scuttled their vessels," Prazak retorted with a smirk.

The Colonel rolled his eyes.

"What's done is done," the young nobleman added. He was typing furiously at the padd he held. "Best I can tell those ships were older vessels. Hopefully we don't have to pay too much to appease the Corq leadership."

Before the next topic of discussion arose, one of the chamber doors behind the Empress' throne opened and closed. General Herschel strode purposefully to the table and handed Prazak a worn and ripped parchment. "I apologize for my lateness. I was summoned to the Tower's prison cells. The guards reported an uprising and unruliness amongst the prisoners and called for an assessment. I arrived and we proceeded to shut the Ti'hi up. That's when we found Count Formic dead in his cell."

Jean-Luc's eyebrows shot up. "Dead?"

Herschel nodded once. "Yes. He was in an isolation cell. Alone. He took his own life. Hung himself with some of his clothing that he'd used to make a noose. My best guess is that the Ti'hi could smell him and got over excited."

Picard shook his head. The Count was a traitor and a coward, but he did not seem to be the type that was ready to die. Apparently he'd been wrong about the nobleman.

Herschel gestured at the paper he'd handed to Prazak then found his seat at the table. "His confession. It seems he was overcome with guilt for his actions. And when he saw that the Ti'hi were being brought in as prisoners he knew he'd made a terrible mistake. He didn't want to live with the knowledge that what he'd done had caused the deaths of so many of his fellow citizens."

"How did he write the note?" Riker questioned.

Herschel's eyes narrowed, but it was Prazak that answered as he set the paper down. "Count Formic was a traitor that had been stripped of his noble status. Yet, he was still afforded means to pass the time in his cell. He, just like any prisoner, was allowed to have items such as writing materials and books."

"Just one more senseless death," Troi mused quietly.

Picard wondered if such a statement would rankle the augments or the other nobles at the table, but before any could react the other door behind the throne opened and Tarina entered, followed by her royal guards, minus Captain Tristin, her advisor, and four others that Picard had not previously seen.

The Empress had exchanged her battle garb for one of her more luxurious gowns. A deep red garment with green, white, and black lace woven into the upper arms and chest, the dress flowed all the way to the floor. She wore her thick fur shawl draped across her shoulders, held in place by two silver clasps made to look like the head of a Davnora cat on each side. The clasps were connected by a chain with a clear glass replica of the belora flower in the center. Her hair was elegantly styled and cascaded down her back. She wore her simple crown atop her head.

At once, everyone at the table rose and Picard noticed Zoja had been present the entire time as well. The big cat been resting at Prazak's feet, but moved out from the table when the others went to gather by the throne.

Tarina made her way up the steps and took her place on the throne. Her entourage stayed standing at the base as her guards took up their positions.

"Tristin?" Deanna whispered.

Picard recalled the Counselor's role in attempting to save the young man from bleeding to death.

"Lost his leg, but lives," Prazak said quietly. "Recovering in the infirmary."

Picard saw the relief on Troi's face. It made him proud once again to think of all his people had done under such horrific circumstances.

Picard looked towards the newcomers and took a moment to study the four. He knew they had to be the delegates. Two males, dressed in similar fashions of brown furs and heavy boots bore similarities to the Corq pirates. They had shaved heads and facial tattoos. But their teeth were not sharpened like the pirates. Rather, each had an assortment of gold capped teeth in their mouths. Each man sported multiple gold jewelry accessories; rings, necklaces, earrings, and large wrist gauntlets. If the gold assortments were any indication, then the trading life had been good to these men.

The other two had to be the Huron delegates. One man and one woman, but both of equal height. They exuded a much more sophisticated air than the Corq. Each wore light colored clothing that somehow seemed both comfortable and warm, yet light weight. They had strange headdresses on that kept their hair in place. Their skin was a bronze color and they had large disc like eyes of an emerald hue. Not tall or large by any means, Picard could see why, if the rest of the Huron people were of similar physical makeups, they would have had to rely on Sardis for protection in exchange for the steel that built Sardis' wall.

Seated, Tarina's eyes scanned her assembly before looking to the Corq delegates. "I believe we've come to acceptable terms, J'yi."

The larger of the two men nodded. "Yes. We'll accept the reduced payment for our lost ships due to the pirates' actions against your people, Your Highness." He didn't sound entirely pleased.

"How many of their people are being held, General Prazak?" Tarina asked.

"Two hundred and four, Your Highness," Prazak responded at once. "The dead have been separated as well."

J'yi flicked a hand. "We don't care about the dead. You can burn them for all we care, General."

Picard sucked in a breath.

Prazak's shoulders shrugged a tad. "Very well. The prisoners will be released to you at once."

J'yi's lips curled into a sadistic grin. "I can assure you, General, and you, Empress Tarina, they will regret their decision to side with the Ti'hi."

J'yi's companion laughed. "They will have a long time to regret that decision too. They'll wish they had died here versus surrendering."

Tarina seemed put off by the Corq's behavior. Picard knew that at times those in power had to make decisions they did not necessarily agree with. Or deal with less than desirable "allies". He didn't know what the delegates had earlier proposed behind closed doors, but it seemed they cared more about their lost ships than about the lives of their people, even if those lives belonged to criminals in this case.

Tarina gave the Corq one last look before addressing the Hurons. "I appreciate your willingness to help us rebuild our wall, Councilwoman Ledfa and Councilman Ludfo."

The Hurons bowed in unison. Ledfa replied, "Of course, Your Highness. It is the least we can do to support Sardis Proper."

"In a way, it is our responsibility," Council Ludfo added. "The materials should have been impervious to attack. Even an attack with explosives. We shall ensure the new materials are even stronger."

Tarina looked out to her own people and waved at one of the young nobleman. It was the same man that had spoken earlier about paying the Corqs. He approached the throne and went down on one knee. Picard did not know the man's name, but had seen him during the battle. His high end clothing covered his wounds, but Picard had witnessed the man injured with a slash across his back during the fight.

"Baron Dubont," she said.

"Yes, Your Highness?" he lifted his gaze, but stayed down on the knee.

"You may not have known that before Baron Hurrey was murdered, he was in line to take over governing duties of the town of Hi-bar on the far side of Tega Peak. You are his closest relative. Therefore, I am appointing you to those duties. You shall accompany Councilwoman Ledfa and Councilman Ludfo back to the Huron capital, make your assessment of Hi-bar and the Sardis garrison stationed there, then report back to me in one month. At that time, you shall move there permanently or until relieved of those duties."

Picard watched the man's facial expressions closely. Undoubtedly, the young Baron was both surprised and honored at the appointment.

Dubont gulped. "You do me, and Baron Hurrey, an honor, Your Highness. I shall not let either of you down."

"I know you will do just fine," Tarina assured. "My advisor will see to the duties of paying the Corq from the treasury and we shall appoint another in your place. You are relieved of those responsibilities now, Baron."

Again, Picard found himself in awe of Tarina. The young ruler never balked at her duties and responsibilities. Hard when necessary. Fair when appropriate. And ready to pick up a sword and fight for her people when called upon. It was no surprise the teen was so beloved by her people, just like her father and grandfather before her. And it was no wonder Prazak and his friends had pledged their lives to such a family. Picard wished he could have met those that came before Tarina. The Warrior Ruler, who freed his people from slavery and established a working society. The Kindly One, crippled as a child, but lived to govern Sardis, keep it safe, develop a sustainable economy and government and sire the now child ruler, Tarina. Sardis was truly privileged to have such a devout potentate.

At that, the delegates from both groups showed their respects to Tarina and departed. Baron Dubont gathered up his belongings then quickly followed behind the Hurons.

When the door closed, Tarina's eyes wandered across the remaining people in the room. When they came to rest on Picard, she smiled at him. "Captain, thank you for joining us. I apologize for having to make you wait through those final decrees, however I assure you, that was nothing compared to the negotiations leading up to those decisions."

The group, with the exception of the royal guards, all laughed. Even Picard and his people. They knew how painfully frustrating negotiations tended to be at times.

"I felt it was necessary that we see this through before my ship departs, Your Highness," Picard answered honestly.

"I guess that just leaves our own negotiations, Captain," Tarina pressed a little.

From the corner of his eye, Picard witnessed Prazak stiffen. So he went to the augment's side. He nodded encouragingly then addressed Tarina. "No negotiations necessary, Your Highness. As far as my superiors know, Andrej Prazak, Wilhelm Herschel, and John Marking all died on this planet."

Prazak's head turned. His eyes were narrow slits. "You lied for us?"

Picard shrugged. "I prefer to think of it as skirting the edges of the truth. I see no reason why Starfleet should attempt to claim these men as citizens. They are not and therefore are not under our jurisdiction. If Starfleet believes they are dead, Your Highness, they'll have no reason to come looking for them again."

"And what of Dickerson?" Prazak wanted to know.

Picard let his shoulder's sag. "I preferred to have taken Lieutenant Dickerson back with us alive. But his death just confirms my belief that no one will come here again. Those that sent him know the mistakes they made and know the consequences that would take place if their illegal operation became known to our higher command. And after all, General, Dickerson did attempt to kill you."

"And nearly succeeded," Crusher added with a smile. Picard knew that smile. It was saying that Beverly felt Prazak should still be in bed, but was holding her tongue respectfully.

"Luckily for us, Doctor," Tarina stated, "both the cretin Baut and your Lieutenant failed in their attempts."

"Either way, you don't have to fear anyone coming to look for these men any more. They are safe and by extension, so are you and your people, Your Highness," Picard said.

"Thank you, Captain," Prazak breathed softly.

At that moment, Tarina stood and gracefully descended the steps, meeting the group at the floor. Zoja bounded over to the woman. Tarina scratched the cat's ears as Zoja rubbed against the Empress' gown.

"There will be another celebration tonight, Captain," Tarina stated. "If you and your people can stay just a bit longer, it would be an honor for us. You all fought side by side with us. Doctor Crusher, you selflessly tended to our wounded, both before and even after your own ordeal. That alone shows me how dedicated you are to helping people."

Picard glanced at his crew. Beverly was blushing from Tarina's praise. The rest, including Guinan appeared tired, but from the lighted looks on their faces, they'd perked up at the idea of one last night of celebration on Sardis.

Picard accepted the invitation. "I think we can do that, Your Highness."

She smiled and just for the briefest of moments Picard saw the child in the young ruler again. But just as quickly as it appeared, she composed herself. "Excellent. This shall be different than the last. This will be with all of Sardis Proper. Inside the Tower and out. I believe you shall all enjoy yourselves so much."

"Tarina wasn't kidding about this celebration," Riker chuckled. "It's one huge festival!"

"Well, they are celebrating a significant victory," Troi added with a smile.

"Yes, freedom from slavery is always worth rejoicing over," Picard stated.

Night had fallen on the city, but the cold did nothing to keep the festivities at bay. Every street was lit and packed. People danced and sang. Vendors sold delicious smelling foods and drinks. Children, previously hidden away when the fighting had commenced, ran carefree up and down the roads. Some were dressed like soldiers and played with wooden swords while others just kicked at the mounds of snow. Even the roving city guard seemed relaxed in their postures as they carried out their duties. Seeing them made Picard glance back over his shoulder towards the wall, but the lights did not extend that high into the sky. Thus, the top of the wall, where it wasn't damaged, remained cloaked in darkness. Picard assumed there was still guards up there.

A group of young soldiers sauntered by. They were laughing richly and from their staggering steps, they appeared quite intoxicated. When the men and women saw the Starfleet personnel, they cheered incoherently. One even dared to slap Worf in the chest. Worf snarled, but he clearly showed that he knew the man was not being combative. A moment later drinks were shoved into the officers' hands and the young soldiers hurried off in the direction they'd been heading.

Steam rose from the cups. Picard sniffed and then took a drink. The liquid was warm, strong, and had just a hint of fruitiness mixed with a cinnamon like spice in the flavor. "Try not to get too drunk," he smirked before taking a sip.

"Bah!" Worf responded before taking a deep gulp of the hot liquid.

"Prune juice with a bite, aye, Worf?" Riker laughed.

"Not prune juice or bloodwine, but it shall do for now," Worf responded before finishing the rest of the drink.

As the group started to meander again, Picard found Beverly lingering back a few paces with him. She hooked an arm into his. "You did well, Jean-Luc."

"Everyone did, Beverly," Picard replied with a smile. "Under the circumstances things could have turned out much worse."

"The short time I spent with Matthew Dickerson, I really did feel sorry for him," Beverly confessed after a sip from her glass. "I mean, we know the horrible things he did, but I know that mental illness effects everyone differently."

"He was a victim and I said as much to Admiral Yamoto."

Beverly tightened into his side. They kept walking. "He was. I wish Yamoto had never been on that Starbase. Matthew could have went home to Earth and gotten the help he needed. And none of this would have happened. The tragedy of it all can really depress a person."

Picard nodded. "I'm sorry you had to experience that, but I know you, Beverly. And I know that in that short time you tried to help him. And maybe he saw that, but he just couldn't get passed the lies he'd been told and how his mind warped those lies into truths."

"Yes." Beverly frowned.

They stopped talking when they'd reached the main courtyard. A medium sized stage had been set up where the fight between Prazak and Baut had happened. A play was currently being conducted up on the stage. Or more like a reenactment. The gathered crowd watched as two people dressed in eccentric costumes reenacted the fight between Prazak and Baut. The Baut character moved clumsily, probably due to its oversized head, as Prazak's actor toyed with the dizzied beast. People laughed and cheered, even when Prazak's character was knocked down by Baut.

"It couldn't have been that silly."

Picard and the others turned. Prazak had snuck up from out of nowhere, his loyal companion Zoja right alongside him. Still dressed in his formal wear from earlier, he didn't seem bothered by the cold. Prazak pulled his eyes from the play to look at the Starfleet crew. He smiled then gestured back up at the stage where Baut was landing a kick to Prazak's groin. "I mean, come on, he never kicked me there!"

When the crowd noticed Prazak had joined them, they all started to cheer even louder. The cheering egged on the actors, with Baut's character getting even more and more flustered. Finally, the Prazak actor simulated the death blow and sent the enlarged Baut head to the stage. Baut performed an overdramatic death scene then plopped down to the wooden plank. Prazak hollered incoherently then kicked the Baut costume head. Everyone cheered.

The real Prazak laughed. "Now I did do that!"

"I believe that struck fear into your enemies' hearts more so than killing their leader," Worf growled seriously.

The actors bowed as the onlookers applauded. Groups started to wander off together as the actors on stage gathered up their costumes while announcing another show would begin shortly.

"I'm sure it did," Prazak agreed. "Are you all enjoying yourselves tonight?"

Everyone nodded. Picard answered for the group, "Yes. The food and drinks are delicious and everyone is very kind."

"And the entertainment isn't half bad," Riker threw in.

"We can always spar if you want. That would really get the crowd riled up," Prazak replied. Picard thought he was serious, but when Prazak grinned and slapped Riker on the shoulder, he relaxed.

Don't need any more of that between those two, Picard mused.

"I'm heading over to one of the taverns," Prazak jerked his head off to the side. "Come join me. I don't get to them very often and I'd like to buy you all some drinks. I can tell you need refills. It's the least I can do."

Two hours later the party was still going strong. The crew had joined Prazak at a crowded tavern where they had linked up with Marking and Herschel. Once again, Marking and Worf were engaged in a bloodwine drinking contest. Neither man looked ready to give in.

"I think they'll run out of bloodwine before either concedes," Riker joked while the two men down their mugs to the cheers of rambunctious onlookers.

"Then we switch to something stronger." Marking slammed his empty mug on the table a second before Worf. The augment hiccupped as he spoke.

"Nothing is stronger than Klingon bloodwine!" Worf shot back.

As the cups were being refilled by the young Timor, Picard took a moment to glance around. Off towards the wooden bar, beneath the portraits of Sardis' ruling family, he saw Prazak and Guinan. Zoja sat on her haunches near Prazak. The pair was speaking and Picard noticed Guinan slip something into Prazak's hand. Whatever it was, Prazak quickly stowed it away somewhere on his body.

It made Picard think of his own gesture. He patted his heavy coat that was slung over the back of his chair. Rising, he draped the coat over his arm. "Excuse me for a moment."

Making his way through the crowd, Picard came up to the pair just as Guinan was stepping away. "Captain." she smiled.

Picard gave her a nod. Prazak was watching his old friend head back to the table. A burst of cheers drew Picard's attention back that way and he saw the drinking contest continuing.

He looked back at Prazak. "I imagine your metabolisms help with excessive alcohol consumption."

Prazak picked up his own mug from the counter and took a long swig. "Yes, but I guarantee John is going to be hating life tomorrow when he wakes up. We may be augments, but we're still human."

Picard agreed. "One of the reasons Starfleet went to synthehol."

Prazak smirked. "I can't even imagine drinking fake alcohol. Might as well drink water."

Picard tilted his head. "I suppose. While you were recovering I went back to the Enterprise and made my report to my superiors."

Prazak nodded. "Yes. You mentioned that already."

"I also wanted to get something," Picard said. Reaching into his coat, he withdrew a book. The cover was worn and old. It wasn't replicated. It was from Picard's personal collection. Running a hand over the cover, he took a moment to appreciate the item before looking up at Prazak.

The augment was studying him intently.

"I was impressed when you finished the Macbeth quote before stepping off into battle," Picard said.

Prazak smirked. "Everyone knows Macbeth."

"You'd be surprised," Picard huffed a little.

He held the book out to Prazak. "While it's not Shakespeare, I thought it was fitting for our situation."

Prazak set his mug down and took the book from Picard.

"Have you read it?" Picard asked.

Prazak opened the cover and flipped through the pages. He shook his head. "Not that I can recall. We did not get many American novels in my little school in Czechoslovakia."

"It's about judgement and innocence. About not letting our fears and prejudices dictate how we ultimately treat and see people."

Prazak's powerful hands cradled the book. He looked like he was afraid he might crush it if he held on too firmly. Written before even Prazak's time, Picard felt the lessons in "To Kill a Mockingbird" still held true even into this century. And to forget those lessons could be disastrous. Prazak's eyes were filled with questions.

"I was judging you on preconceived notions and flat out lies that had been told to me. It was wrong and I regret it. I hold myself to a much higher standard than that, but in this case, I faltered. I let my fear of what you are blind me from seeing who you are. Men like Atticus Finch, in the book, are standard bearers for moral decency and doing the right thing. You are like Atticus in my mind. I want you to have that book, Andrej."

Prazak blinked. "I can't. This book looks…old. It means something to you."

"It is old and it does mean something to me," Picard said. "But it is mine to give and I want you to have it. Take it. It's yours."

Prazak ran his hand over the cover, just as Picard had done before handing it over. He nodded. "Thank you, Jean-Luc."

Prazak extended his hand. Picard took it. The handshakes were firm. A sign of mutual respect passing between the two men.

The celebrations had gone well into the morning hours. It wasn't until Deanna stepped out into the Sardis streets that she realized dawn was approaching. Most of the citizens had retired to their homes or establishments such as the tavern Deanna had just left. Only random patrols of soldiers and city guard occupied the now quiet streets.

The rest of the crew were headed to the shuttlecrafts, but Deanna needed to say goodbye.

Prazak had disappeared a few hours earlier. He'd slipped away amongst the crowds. Deanna hadn't noticed until someone asked where he was. Now she searched for him through their connection.

She found him. He didn't answer, but he also didn't stop her from honing in on his location. So as the sun began to crest the horizon of the sea, Deanna stepped into the Empress' royal gardens.

The only other occupants were the guards at the entrance gate. They didn't address her, only nodded in acknowledgement of her presence.

Moving quietly through the gardens, she found Andrej seated on a stone bench. He cradled a book in his hands. He didn't look up as she approached. Zoja was resting close by. The cat hadn't left the man's side since he woke up the day prior.

Deanna stopped a few steps from where Andrej sat. "You left earlier without saying anything."

"I went to the infirmary to check on my people," he explained. "Tristin is doing well, but he was asleep from the medication."

Deanna's lips curled into a soft smile. "That's good to hear. Did you see Lady Sa?"

Prazak nodded. "We spoke for a while. Neither of us is sure how the future will play out, but we both agreed we need to work together for the child's sake. She apologized for her behavior towards us."

"I don't hold any grudges against her," Deanna remarked truthfully. Sa's behavior, while cruel and over the top was at least understandable. The woman saw Deanna as a threat and while Sa didn't know she was pregnant at the time, the hormonal changes in her body could have been factors that influenced her behavior.

"She's ready to leave the infirmary, but Belan wants to ensure she's strong enough to be discharged. At least for another day or two. I agreed."

They fell silent for a time. Andrej continued to stare at the book in his hands while Deanna sat down and glanced between him and the beautifully peaceful gardens. The light snowfall added to the grounds calming effect.

After a while, Andrej said, "I wasn't sure if I would be able to see you off. Saying goodbye has never been easy for me."

"Andrej," Deanna breathed.

He looked up. He set the book down on a cloth he'd laid out on the bench, wrapping it up to protect it from the snow. "I'm sorry, Deanna."

"You have nothing to be sorry for, Andrej," Deanna reminded.

Prazak slid his hands around the back of his neck, careening his head towards the sky. "Deanna, you stuck with me through all of this. From the very beginning. Even when I wasn't the most...gentlemanly towards you and your friends."

"Both sides were experiencing something new and uncertain," she assured.

"True, but you gave me your trust when I hadn't even earned it. That was admirable. You defended me. I imagine that was a bold and risky move for you."

Without thinking, she reached up and pulled his hands apart and away from his neck. She grasped one and their fingers intertwined.

"I can't explain it, Andrej, but the things I sensed from you...I just knew you were a good person. I could tell you were guarded and nervous, but I didn't sense any maliciousness or deceit on your part or from your friends. I will admit, it was harder to justify my beliefs once the truth of your identities came out, but when you shared your past with me, I knew that Starfleet was wrong. And I thank you for sharing those events with me. They were horrible and difficult to witness, so I can't imagine what it must have been like to live them as you did. But it showed me who you were, who you really were. Those events defined you and made you into the man you are now."

Prazak squeezed her hand. "It's just who I am."

"And that's why I defended you." Deanna smiled. "Being humble is sometimes a difficult concept for humans to grasp and no one, based on the historical information we have from your time, would ever have thought an augment could be humble. You're one of the good ones, Andrej, so stop beating yourself up over it."

"I'm not all good," he argued. "I've killed people. I've hurt people. Used people. I hurt you."

Deanna shook her head and gave his hand a squeeze in return. "No you didn't, Andrej. Let's just accept that what we shared was something special and leave it at that."

Reaching across with his other hand, he pushed some stray curls behind her ear. Her pulse started to race. The way his fingers caressed her hair, gently stroking her earlobe made her shudder. One last kiss wouldn't hurt. It would be their last time ever seeing each other. Sharing each other. Even if it was just a kiss.

She leaned into him. He met her halfway. Their lips touched and Deanna moaned a little at the contact. She held his hand firmly as the other ghosted over his facial stubble, pulling him closer to her. Into her. She felt his tongue push against her lips, seeking entry. She opened up to him and they soon found each other as the kiss deepened and the passion intensified. She didn't want the moment to end. She never wanted it to end. But eventually their final kiss drew to its natural end. Deanna sighed happily as her eyes fluttered back open. She hadn't even realized she'd closed them.

Andrej pecked her lips one last time. "I'm going to miss you, Deanna Troi. And I'll never forget you."

"I already miss you, Andrej Prazak," responded softly. "And I too, will never forget you."

To Be Continued…