Three Days Later

Romulan Senate Chamber – Romulus

Silence filled the chamber as Jeris, who was now clad in a clean Romulan uniform with black mourning stripes on his collar and cuffs, entered the chamber with David, who was wearing a sleeper, in his arms.

"Praetor, Senators," Jeris said in a respectful voice as he approached the table. "You summoned me?"

Praetor Valaska nodded, but looked to another Romulan at the table, one who had blonde hair that was so pale it almost looked white, "Jeris, I am the Centurion," the Romulan spoke in a calming tone as he extracted a stylus from underneath the desk. "I have taken the liberty of researching you and I am impressed that you survived among both humans and Vulcans using an alias for a long period of time."

"My late colleague, Nero, advised it for my own safety," Jeris replied in a respectful tone.

The Centurion nodded, "You also served as a medical assistant at a preservation facility on Saturn for a number of years and I find that impressive," he commented. "I also see you have advanced degrees in biology, neuroscience, chemistry, temporal physics, and genetics. You are very talented and young…"

Jeris bowed respectfully and David squirmed, but remained quiet, "I understand from a Captain Ja'rod of the Klingon Defense Force that your wife died in childbirth," the Centurion commented. "He said that she succumbed to injuries sustained in a physical conflict with Captain James T. Kirk and…"

"Yes," Jeris replied in a steel voice. "Forgive my interruption; her death is still fresh in my mind."

The Centurion nodded, "Would you be opposed to receiving additional training so that you may be an asset to the Romulan Star Empire?" he asked in a calming voice. "You are highly intelligent."

"As long as I am able to also care for my son," Jeris replied calmly. "My son is everything to me."

Again, the Centurion nodded and looked to Praetor Valaska, "Your training will not interfere with your ability to care for your son, Jeris," Praetor Valaska said in a reassuring voice. "What is his name?"

"David Marcus," Jeris replied with mournful pride in his voice. "As was requested by his mother in her dying moments."

Pediatrics Unit – Starfleet Medical - 1000 H

Dr. Piper sighed as he pulled a stylus from a filing cabinet and slid it across the desk for Arianne and Leonard to look at if they wanted to, "The ADHD and Non-Verbal Learning Disorder were partially genetic and also caused by environmental factors," he explained gently. "Of course, whatever medication that Admiral Archer had forced Charlie to take did cause some additional damage."

"Is the damage permanent?" Arianne asked in a guilt-ridden voice. "If I had known what was going on…"

Leonard sighed and gently took Arianne's hand, "It's not your fault," he said in a reassuring voice.

"Even in this day and age, Commander McCoy, these challenges still occur in people and all we can do is ensure that they don't drive people to the point of insanity or suicide," Dr. Piper explained, seeing that Arianne was feeling guilty about Charlie's problems. "Old style medications such as the Ritalin that Charlie was forced on to at the age of three do more harm than good in a lot of cases. However, there are herbal supplements or alternative treatments that can help Charlie live a productive life."

Leonard nodded, "Like getting Charlie into a routine and stuff like that?" he asked, having started researching Arianne's disabilities in more depth back when Charlie had broken his arm.

"That's one thing you and your wife could do if you're against any sort of medication," Dr. Piper replied in an impressed voice. "Commander, if I may ask, how did you and your father handle your disabilities?"

Deeply gratified that Dr. Piper had thought to ask her opinion about the matter even though she didn't have an M.D. behind her name, Arianne smiled, "Well, when civilian schooling didn't work, my father sent me to an alternative school," she replied calmly. "Charlie's already enrolled in one, but he's still having difficulties in certain things like reading and social skills. I don't think that's his fault, though."

"An assessment can only reveal so much about how Charlie's brain works," Dr. Piper said in a gentle voice as he leaned back in his chair. "With your permission, "I'd like to run a brain circuitry pattern and neuroscan on Charlie to see what damage the medication has done. Did you bring him with you?"

Arianne nodded, "Charlie wanted to visit his Uncle Jim and give him a card he made, so we didn't think there would be any problem letting him keep Jim company while we spoke with you," she explained in a pleasant voice. "Your office is just down the hall from his hospital room, so it's within reach."

Dr. Piper nodded and stood up, "Well, I've been wanting to talk to Captain Kirk anyway about a recovery plan, so why don't we all go?" he suggested in a gentle voice. "Where are your other kids, by the way?"

"Eleanora and Kathryn are decorating the Presidential Mansion for Christmas and Joanna, Zachary, Kathy, and Michael all wanted to help," Arianne replied as she and Leonard stood up. "Charlie…"

Leonard sighed, "Is stubborn and determined," he cut in, exasperated and slightly proud. "Just like his father."

Recovery Unit – Starfleet Medical

"Uncle Jim, do you want a computer?" Charlie asked in a quiet voice as he sat in a chair beside Jim's bed with a backpack on his lap and watched Jim silently stare at the ceiling in thought. "You look bored."

Even though Jim was deep in thought about all that had happened that he had only revealed to Spock through the mind-meld, he sighed and looked at the small boy, "I'm just thinking about stuff, Charlie," he replied in a patient voice, wincing as he lifted his wrist, which was now bandaged and in a brace.

"I gots a present for you," Charlie said eagerly as he opened the backpack. "Wanna see it?"

Giving Charlie a look of both intrigue and confusion, Jim nodded and frowned when Charlie reached into the bag and pulled out a small statue that was nothing more than a broken phaser glued to a piece of wood, "I made this for you out of stuff I got from Grandpa's office," he said in an eager voice as he offered the statue to Jim. "I tried to rescue you and Mommy from the badguys, but I got hurt…"

"You what?" Jim asked in a voice filled with shock and concern. "What exactly did you do?"

Charlie silently set the statue on the portable table, "I borrowed stuff from all over the ship and put it in a bag, but I fell off a bridge in Uncle Monty's office and broke my arm before I could save you," he explained in a quiet voice. "Zachary told me that you and Mommy were going to die if I didn't."

Jim's concerned expression softened, "You shouldn't steal stuff, first of all," he said in a tired voice as he rested his wrist back on the pillow that Sam had given him. "Secondly, being brave does not mean you have to listen to Zachary when he tells you to do something. I'm glad that you care so much about your mom and I, Charlie, but what you did was very dangerous. Do you understand that it was dangerous?"

"Yes, Uncle Jim," Charlie replied softly before he brightened again. "What do you want for Christmas?"

Unsure of how to explain that he would be spending Christmas in the hospital without any expectation of company, presents, or holiday food, Jim silently studied the statue and was relieved when the door slid open, "Are you behaving for your Uncle Jim, Charlie?" Arianne asked in a gentle voice as she and Leonard came into the room. "How are you feeling today, Jim? Have you had anything to eat yet?"

"I had a smoothie for breakfast," Jim replied softly. "Sam brought Lorian and George by after breakfast and then took them out to explore downtown with Aurelan and Peter. I don't know what I'll have for…"

Charlie looked up at Arianne, "Mommy, I asked Uncle Jim what he wants for Christmas!" he piped up excitedly. "I also made him a cool present since he doesn't have any decorations in his room!"

Leonard's eyes widened at the broken phaser glued to the piece of wood, but he said nothing, "It's very nice, Charlie," Arianne replied in a gentle voice. "Charlie, honey, Doctor Piper wants to talk you for a moment out in the hallway. Why don't you go out with your daddy so that I can talk to your Uncle Jim?"

Charlie nodded and obediently got up, "Papa, we gotta go so that Mommy and Uncle Jim can talk," he said as he walked around the bed and hugged Leonard around the legs. "Can we get some food?"

"After we talk to Doctor Piper," Leonard replied in a firm parental voice. "Let's go now, please."

Releasing his father's legs, Charlie silently followed Leonard from the room, "Any official business?" Jim asked in a concerned voice as Arianne walked around the bed and sat in the chair. "How are you?"

"I'll have to have one more surgery before Christmas to get the tubes out of my body, but it's just a simple procedure," Jim replied in a tired voice. "Can I ask you to do something for me, Arianne?"

Arianne nodded, "Of course," she replied in a gentle voice. "I assume this is about Christmas?"

"Yeah, sort of," Jim said in a self-conscious voice. "I've been thinking about what Carol did to me on that ship and it's killing me that I don't feel safe enough to tell anyone about it, not even Bones. Spock only knows because he and Sarek did that meld on me, but I'm too scared to tell anyone else that…"

Arianne sighed, "That Carol took your DNA and impregnated herself with your child," she finished softly.

Jim nodded and tears filled his tired eyes, "Jim, you have to tell someone using your words and emotions to express yourself," Arianne replied in a gentle voice. "I know it's hard, but you have to do it in order to fully recover. Leonard's been your closest friend for a long time and he won't judge you."

For a moment, Jim was quiet and sighed, "You're right," he answered in a quiet voice. "He won't…"

"I won't what?" Leonard's voice spoke as Leonard came back into the room. "Arianne, Charlie said he'll let Doctor Piper do the scans if you go with him. I can sit with Jim for a while if he's not too tired."

Arianne silently rose from her chair and walked around the bed, "Go easy on him, Len," she whispered.

Leonard raised an eyebrow in confusion as Arianne left the room, "Bones, something really bad happened to me over on the Veritas Nero," Jim spoke in a trembling voice as he looked up at his friend, silently praying that Leonard wouldn't be angry. "I was beaten senseless, taken from the others, and strapped down to a table in Carol's lab. DNA was taken and Carol was impregnated…"

A gasp escaped Jim's lips as his body shuddered violently, "C-Carol was pregnant when I w-was stabbed and J-Jeris took them both away," he sobbed, trying to compose himself. "Part of me was taken away…"

Swallowing hard, Leonard sat on the edge of the bed facing Jim and was unsurprised when Jim slowly sat up and covered his eyes with his uninjured hand, "I-I need to tell Pike too," he whispered anxiously.

"I'll contact him," Leonard replied as he silently got out his stylus and fired off a message for President Pike to come to Jim's room as soon as he was able to. "Jim, what happened to you isn't your fault…"

Jim didn't move, however, but his breaths were steady for several minutes before he gasped and crumpled against Leonard's tunic in tears, "Jim, shh," Leonard said in a comforting voice as he gently wrapped his arms around Jim and held him. "It's okay; it's all going to be okay. Just keep breathing."

Residential District - Downtown San Francisco - 1200 H

The McCoy homestead seemed untouched, but Sam was confused as to why Lorian had insisted that they travel there instead of finding a place to eat lunch, "How did you get a key to Doctor McCoy's place, Lorian?" Sam asked in a confused voice as he watched Lorian unlock the front door with an access card.

"When Father was recovering from surgery, Doctor McCoy allowed him to reside here because he had no other place to stay," Lorian explained as the door slid open and he entered the house. "Commander McCoy provided me with an access card should I ever need access to the house for Father's things…"

Sam nodded and came into the house, "Where did you and George stay?" he asked in a concerned voice, noticing the makeshift bed on the couch and wondering if Jim had slept there. "Wow."

"With President Pike and his family," Lorian replied tonelessly as he walked over to a large box that was sitting in the corner of the room near a shelf filled with PADDs. "I came to look through Father's things."

Sam swallowed hard as Lorian dug through the box and extracted a small case, a pair of worn slippers, and a battered stylus, "Father will want these things since he will not be released from the hospital until after the holidays," Lorian explained in a toneless voice as he turned to look at Sam. "It will cheer him…"

"Wait, how did you know that your father's not being released until after the holidays?" Sam asked, having only been told that since he was a relative of Jim's. "That information's not widely known…"

Lorian sighed, "My father does not keep information from me," he replied tonelessly. "He may hesitate to share information at times, but he does not keep it away permanently. I may be considered a child by Terran standards, but I am also half Vulcan and extremely intelligent, a fact that my father sees."

"Lorian, I never questioned your intelligence," Sam replied in a shocked voice. "I'm just wondering why you insisted on coming here while you asked your aunt to look after George and Peter in the car…"

Lorian sighed, "Father is a very headstrong man, but it does hurt him that he will be unable to enjoy the upcoming holiday properly," he explained as he stood up. "He does, however, wish us to enjoy them."

"Lorian, can I ask you a personal question?" Sam asked softly. "What was your first Christmas like?"

Lorian was silent and raised an eyebrow, "My mother and I did not celebrate any Terran holidays until we met Father," he replied tonelessly. "It was Father who introduced us to these occasions of…"

Sam nodded and frowned when tears filled Lorian's eyes, "Ambassador Sarek attempted to take me away from Father because he viewed Father as an unfit parent," Lorian explained softly. "Although James Kirk is not my biological father, he is the closest thing to a father I have ever known and, along with my younger brother, we are a family unit. My mother died in 2261 and he was there for us even before she died…"

Lorian silently walked over to the couch and sat, "Do you want me to talk to this Ambassador Sarek about how much your father has done for you and your brother?" Sam offered in a confused voice.

"Ambassador Sarek withdrew his petition to force me to Vulcan after he and Commander Spock initiated a mind meld with Father," Lorian replied, suddenly frowning. "What is Commander Spock doing here?"

Sam frowned and turned just in time to see Spock enter the house clad in a heavy winter coat, "This morning, Commander McCoy contacted me and requested that I check the house to ensure that everything is as they left it," Spock stated tonelessly. "I must ask what you two are doing here."

"I am gathering a few items for Father so that his lengthy stay in the hospital is more comfortable," Lorian stated tonelessly as he gestured to the ragged, open box in the corner of the room and suddenly turned back to it. "I almost forgot something that Doctor McCoy told Father to make years ago…"

Spock raised an eyebrow as Lorian set the items on the floor and pulled a large, poorly constructed handmade quilt that consisted of multicolored patches and insignias of various Starfleet divisions and cultural insignias of who were allies of Starfleet, including an IDIC patch from New Vulcan, "Fascinating," Spock commented tonelessly as Lorian folded up the quilt. "I was not aware Captain Kirk knew how to…"

"Mother and I assisted in the construction," Lorian explained. "Doctor McCoy called it family therapy."

Sam nodded, "Lorian, why don't I put the things back in the box and carry it while you carry the quilt out to the car?" he suggested in a gentle voice. "We can take these things to your father after lunch."

Lorian silently nodded and held the folded quilt close to his chest, "Commander Spock, would you like to join us for lunch?" Sam asked, eager to learn more about Jim from someone who was a close friend.

"I would not be adverse to that," Spock replied calmly. "Nyota and Amanda are otherwise occupied."

Sam put all the items back in the box and picked it up, "Let's get out of here," he said in a calm voice.

J.A.G. Headquarters – Starfleet – San Francisco

"Remember, Doctor Phlox, it is only by courtesy that you are here," President Pike spoke icily.

Phlox nodded and silently watched as a guard deactivated the forcefield that was keeping Stonn inside the small isolation unit within the basement of J.A.G. Headquarters because neither the Vulcan Embassy nor Starfleet Medical were appropriate given the circumstances. Hendorff lingered next to President Pike protectively while another guard lingered near Phlox with a medical kit in his hands to give to him.

Sarek promptly greeted them, "Stonn is awaiting your assistance, Doctor Phlox," he stated in a toneless voice as he took notice of President Pike and the guards that had accompanied him. "Do come in."

"Do not make any attempt to escape, Doctor Phlox," Chris warned. "The guards and I will be here."

The guard handed Phlox the med-kit and Phlox silently followed Sarek into the room, flinching as he heard the forcefield reactivate. Stonn was in a white meditation robe and seated in meditation position on a small cot with his hands in a small triangle, his head directed towards the floor, and his eyes closed.

"Stonn, I have retrieved Doctor Phlox," Sarek spoke, his attention on the younger, silent Vulcan.

There was silence and Stonn slowly looked up and opened his eyes, but did not speak, "Stonn has been unable to communicate verbally since he was taken into custody," Sarek explained tonelessly. "I wish to initiate a mind meld with Stonn, but I do not wish to physically compromise him. That is why I…"

"Understood," Phlox replied as he opened the medkit, held out the tricorder, and pointed it at Stonn.

Sarek silently placed his hands on Stonn's psi-points, "My mind to your mind," he said in a reverent, yet toneless voice as he closed his eyes. "My thoughts to your thoughts. We are of one mind, Stonn…"

Images of Stonn assaulting Joanna and attempting to initiate a meld filled Sarek's mind and the meld was nearly broken when Sarek felt Joanna repel Stonn's meld with a strong amount of mental discipline.

Then, as if it were a hammer hitting a nail, the words Pa'nar Syndrome and severe mental breakdown echoed from Stonn's mind into Sarek and Sarek knew that Joanna had mentally thrust Pa'nar Syndrome back at Stonn after he had tried to bestow it on her through an improper meld. Now Stonn was suffering from both of the terrible illnesses.

Taking great care to not damage Stonn's fragile mind, Sarek broke the meld, "Stonn must return to New Vulcan to undergo treatment for Pa'nar Syndrome," Sarek explained tonelessly. "Your assistance…"

"I am prohibited from leaving Starfleet property," Phlox replied softly. "President Pike's orders."

Sarek raised an eyebrow, "Remain with Stonn," he stated tonelessly. "I must speak with President Pike."

Examination Room – Starfleet Medical

Swallowing hard, Charlie, who was clad in hospital pajamas and a protective vest, lay very still on the biobed as a small bioscan laser scanned his entire body from head to toe while Dr. Piper and Arianne stood behind a console that was providing detailed findings as each part of the scan was completed.

A wall and window separated Dr. Piper and Arianne from Charlie, but they could communicate with him via intercom if necessary, "Mommy, I'm bored," Charlie's voice filled the room. "When can we go?"

Dr. Piper silently scanned the results and sighed, "The Ritalin's made Charlie severely underweight for his age and his growth is slightly stunted," he explained in a somber voice. "However, in time and with a combination of proper nutrition and physical activity, those issues should become unconcerning."

"Yet, the ADHD and Non-Verbal Learning Disorder came from me," Arianne replied softly. "I had such conditions because I was apparently born in space and abandoned shortly after arriving on Earth."

Dr. Piper was about to offer a reply when the communication terminal mounted on the scanning console suddenly beeped, "Doctor Piper, this is President Pike," Chris's voice spoke in an official tone.

"What can I do for you, President Pike?" Dr. Piper asked as he tapped the button. "I'm a little busy…"

There was silence, "I need you to come over to the isolation cells at J.A.G. Headquarters and clear Doctor Phlox to serve as Stonn's primary physician," Chris's voice replied. "I also need you and a Starfleet counselor to meet with Doctor Phlox and give a recommendation that Doctor Phlox's sentence would be better served on New Vulcan where his talents as a doctor could be put to use."

Arianne's eyes widened and she covered her mouth in shock, but Dr. Piper said nothing, "Ambassador Sarek made this request and he does not make it lightly," Chris's voice spoke. "Consider it an order."

Swallowing hard, Arianne silently looked at Charlie, "Aye sir," Dr. Piper replied in a somber voice right before he tapped the button. "Commander McCoy, you are the best counselor we have right now…"

Arianne, however, wasn't listening; she was suddenly thinking how Doctor Phlox would soon go free, "I want a meeting in Captain Kirk's room," she finally said in a somber voice. "He needs to hear this too."

Residential Wing – Romulan Senate

"…The Senate was most impressed with you, Jeris," the Centurion said in a calming voice as he and Senator Javal walked alongside Jeris, who was now holding a sleeping David against his shoulder.

Jeris, however, was distracted by abdominal discomfort that he had suddenly began experiencing while meeting with the Praetor and Senate. It had delivered a shock to his system, but he had remained silent so not to appear disrespectful in one of the many meetings that would assist his and David's future.

Now, however, the pain was making it difficult for Jeris to walk and he could taste blood pooling in his throat from a possible internal injury that he had sustained before the Enterprise had come. He silently handed David to Senator Javal and lowered himself to his knees so he could become ill in private.

"Jeris, are you all right?" Senator Javal asked in a concerned voice. "Centurion, summon a medic!"

Jeris swallowed hard, "I must have sustained an injury during the conflict with the Enterprise that repressed itself until now," he replied in a pain-filled voice as the pain suddenly subsided. "Perhaps it is an issue related to stress. I seem to suddenly be feeling better, so I must have been anxious…"

Senator Javal nodded and silently helped Jeris to his feet before returning David, "The last few weeks have been hard on you," the Centurion spoke in a reassuring voice. "I know you do not think highly of Vulcans, but there is a Vulcan named Sonak who is a doctor and also very skilled with meditation techniques that might prove useful in your quest to make a peaceful life for yourself and David."

"I remember Doctor Sonak from my time working at the research facility on Mimas under my assumed name," Jeris replied as they continued along the corridor to the guest quarters. "He taught me a few meditation techniques and also helped me to develop my skills that my degrees had given me."

Senator Javal frowned, "Doctor Sonak is no doubt preoccupied with his experiments and genetics work," he commented in a concerned voice. "I wonder if his first experiment proved successful or if the boy died because Doctor Phlox was pushing for something that wasn't possible. Foolish Denobulan…"

Jeris frowned, but said nothing because he knew that Senator Javal was referring to the experimental transfusion that Dr. Sonak had performed on Zachary Archer three years prior at the insistence of Doctor Phlox. After the Denobulan had made strides to get to the facility, how could they say no?

"Jeris, here are the quarters that the Senate arranged for you until you and David for the time being," Senator Javal spoke as they stopped in front of a door. "The facilities are at your free disposal."

Nodding, Jeris silently bowed and graciously entered the guest quarters while Senator Javal and the Centurion continued down the corridor. Taking great care not to wake David, Jeris silently carried him to the small bedroom that contained a bed, tables, a computer, a closet, and a small infant bassinette.

"Rest well, my son," Jeris whispered as he gently set David in the bassinette and covered him up.

David didn't stir and Jeris silently wandered over to the computer so that he could get some work done while keeping an eye on his infant. He sat at the terminal and silently began to search through the databanks; his curiosity about the Zachary Archer experiment had been piqued and the fact that nobody knew where the donor had disappeared to was even more intriguing. Where had the superhuman gone?

Golden Gate Apartments -1400 H

"Vat are ve doing here, Neeota?" Pavel asked in a confused voice as he hobbled after Hikaru and Nyota into a large vacant apartment that was just above the apartment where Hikaru had lived for a while.

Nyota grinned, "President Pike found this place in the real estate database and he ordered me to investigate it and report back," she replied in an amused voice. "I decided to invite both of you."

Amanda cooed happily in Hikaru's arms while Nyota wandered into the living room, "Open living room and kitchen, two bedrooms, one public bathroom, one bathroom connected to the master suite, and a balcony," Nyota spoke in an intrigued voice as she took herself on a tour of the apartment. "Wow."

"Eeet ees fully furneeshed," Pavel commented as he hobbled over to the couch and sat. "Aaah."

Hikaru chuckled, "Pavel, I'm going to check out the apartment," he said cheerfully. "Rest your leg."

As Hikaru disappeared into the kitchen with Amanda, Pavel sighed and slowly elevated his leg.

Recovery Unit – Starfleet Medical

"Len, Jim?" Arianne called out in a quiet voice as she entered Jim's room. "What on earth?"

Arianne froze at seeing Leonard sitting on the edge of the bed holding Jim, who was clearly in a deep sleep, against his tunic, "Shh," Leonard whispered in a gentle voice. "Jim had a bit of a release."

"Ah," Arianne replied, figuring that Jim had finally opened up about what Carol had done to him.

Leonard nodded, gently released his hold, and gently rested his sleeping friend back on the bed in a position that he'd be comfortable in and that wouldn't aggravate his healing injuries, "He needed it," Arianne said in a gentle voice as she moved closer to the bed. "I told him not to be afraid of telling you."

"I'm not going to judge him for that when he didn't judge me for all my crap," Leonard replied in a tired voice as he stood up and raised the bedrail so that Jim wouldn't fall out. "I know he needed to cry."

There was a brief silence and then Charlie came into the room back in his street clothes, "Mommy, I got dressed," he announced in a cheerful voice. "You said if I got dressed, I could visit with Uncle Jim."

"Uncle Jim's sleeping, honey," Arianne replied gently. "If you want to, you can write him a note."

Charlie silently gazed at Jim's sleeping form, "Mommy, is Uncle Jim too sick and hurt to be out of the hospital in time for Christmas?" he asked in a somber voice. "He didn't tell me what he wanted…"

Biting his lip, Leonard sat on the edge of the bed and patted the spot beside him, "Sit down for a sec, Charlie," he said, sighing as Charlie climbed up on the bed beside him. "Your Uncle Jim was hurt very badly just before we were able to rescue him and your mother from the Romulans, so he had to have a lot of operations done on him so that he would be all right. Also, the place where your mom and Uncle Jim were held wasn't very clean or warm, so he also ended up getting sick because of that…"

"Can we get Uncle Jim a Christmas tree for his room?" Charlie interrupted. "And decorate it?"

Leonard shook his head, "Big trees aren't allowed in these special hospital rooms because they could make recovering people sick," he replied gently. "Maybe we can get him a little tree, though."

Charlie nodded, "For now, though, we should go home and see if your grandmothers and siblings want help decorating the house," Arianne said in a gentle voice. "Len, are you going to stay for a while?"

"Nope, he's not going to stay for a while," a firm, but gentle voice spoke. "He's going home."

Leonard frowned as Dr. Piper came into the room with a stylus in his hand, "What did Doctor Harriman tell you about overworking yourself, McCoy?" Dr. Piper asked sternly. "I don't have any family and I even take time to rest and recuperate when I've worked too hard. Commander McCoy, have you thought…?"

"I don't know if I can do it," Arianne replied nervously as she put her arms around Charlie. "I can't…"

Swallowing hard, Arianne silently left the room with her arms around Charlie, "What's wrong?" Leonard asked in a quiet, but concerned voice. "What did you say to Arianne to make her so uneasy?"

"Ambassador Sarek wishes to transfer Doctor Phlox to New Vulcan to assist in Stonn's recovery," Dr. Piper explained in a somber voice. "Earlier today, President Pike and two guards authorized Doctor Phlox to make a medical visit to the isolation cells at J.A.G. Headquarters to treat Stonn…"

Leonard nodded, but said nothing, "A qualified counselor or psychologist needs to make an assessment that will be enough for J.A.G and President Pike to okay such a prisoner transfer," Dr. Piper explained in a concerned voice. "Commander McCoy is currently Starfleet's most experienced psychologist, but…"

"I have a PhD in Psychology as well as one in Medicine," Leonard replied quietly. "I don't blame Arianne for not wanting to have anything to do with Phlox after he nearly killed Zachary with that transfusion."

Dr. Piper was quiet for a moment and nodded, "I'll arrange a meeting between you and Phlox as soon as he's back at Starfleet Security," he replied in a professional voice. "President Pike and Ambassador Sarek are working out an agreement that legally needs your assessment to be officially approved by Pike."

Leonard nodded, "I'll contact you with details," Dr. Piper spoke softly. "Now, get out of here, McCoy."

"When Jim wakes up again, make sure he eats something," Leonard said right before he walked out.

Dr. Piper silently gazed at the sleeping Jim and sighed, "Hang in there, Kirk," he whispered softly.

Family Room – Starfleet Presidential Mansion - 1600 H

A tree heavily embedded in a cement planter was in the corner of the room near a window that looked out over the entire Academy campus. Boxes filled with garland, tinsel, and elaborate decorations that had either been homemade or store bought from places around the world cluttered the floor.

Kathryn was carefully looping old style Christmas lights around the tree while Eleanora helped Michael, and Kathy decorate Christmas pictures that were to be hung on the walls. Joanna, who was still on strict orders to take it easy, was asleep on the couch with a pillow under her sweatsuit-clad back.

"Gramma, I got Joanna a blanket from Mommy and Papa's room," Zachary announced in a quiet voice as he held up the Starfleet issue blanket. "Porthos was following me, so I gave him a ride down here."

Kathryn came around the tree and was amused to see Porthos sitting on the end of the blanket, keeping himself on the item by digging his claws into it, "Porthos misses Charlie," Zachary spoke worriedly as he yawned and nearly dropped the blanket. "Gramma, I'm super tired. Can I please go have a nap?"

"No, but you can have something to eat," Kathryn replied as she came around the tree. "A snack."

Zachary nodded and Porthos toddled off the blanket and over to the couch, allowing Zachary to throw the blanket over Joanna's sleeping form. Joanna woke with a start and shot up in a fit of anxiety.

"Joanna, you're all right," Kathryn said in a quick voice, having been told what to do by Leonard if Joanna were to wake in a fit of anxiety relating to her experience with Stonn. "You're in the family room."

Joanna was quiet for a moment and then winced, "I sat up too fast," she said in a pained voice.

"Zachary threw a blanket over you," Kathryn explained gently. "Would you like something to eat?"

Joanna shook her head and laid back down, "I'm sorry I scared you, Joanna," Zachary whispered.

"It's all right, Zachary," Joanna replied softly as she looked at him. "I'm still not used to…"

The words living among Humans again remained unsaid, but Kathryn could tell that Joanna was still struggling to live among Humans again after spending several years as a prisoner of the Romulans; she had seen the same behavior with Seven a long time ago and Kathryn's heart truly ached for Joanna.

"I know I'm supposed to rest, but would it be all right if I went for a bit of a walk around the house?" Joanna asked in a quiet voice as she slowly got up off the couch. "I just need a few minutes."

Kathryn frowned, but Joanna silently left the room before anyone could stop her, "I'll be right back," she said in a quiet voice as she walked out of the room and saw Joanna lingering near the back door.

"You shouldn't go out without a coat and shoes," Kathryn commented gently as she moved forward.

Joanna shrugged, but said nothing, "I never thought it would be this hard to readjust to living on Earth," she said in a hollow voice as she turned to face Kathryn. "Everyone's been so welcoming, but I…"

"You haven't done a lot since you returned to Earth, have you?" Kathryn asked gently. "You're a 14 year old young lady who has had a traumatic past and has been given a chance to embrace a future of her choosing now that she is among people who love her dearly. I know you have desires within you…"

Joanna was silent for a moment, "I've been thinking about asking my father if I can go to school," she replied in a nervous voice. "I wasn't really taught anything useful as a child and I had to struggle to acquire useful information on Romulus. I'm not sure if I can go to a regular school, though…"

"I run an educational centre for children of all ages who have unique learning styles, including Charlie," Kathryn explained calmly as she held her arms out to Joanna. "You should talk to your parents about it and I can help you find a learning level and style that you're comfortable with; that is, if you want to."

Joanna shrugged and winced, "For now, though, I think you could use a snack and a couple of those pain meds Doctor Harriman sent home with you," Kathryn said in a gentle voice. "Come on."

Joanna hesitated and then walked into Kathryn's outstretched arms, "It'll take time, but you'll eventually begin to feel like you belong because you do," Kathryn explained gently as she led Joanna down the hall and into the kitchen where Zachary was already sitting at the table eating an apple while the culinary staff worked around him preparing meals for later that day. "I see you didn't want to wait for me."

Zachary shrugged, but continued eating, "Sit down and I'll see what I can find, all right?" Kathryn said in a gentle voice as she released Joanna. "It's the middle of the day, so I'll find something with sugar…"

Joanna nodded and silently sat down at the table, surprised when Zachary put his free hand over hers.

Starfleet Academy Campus

The sight of Arianne silently sitting on a bench while Charlie read a plaque that had been placed where the old Cadet Centre used to be was certainly not what Leonard expected to see as he walked down the footpath back towards the Presidential Mansion. Yet, there it was; Charlie was studying the plaque with a fierce intensity and Arianne was sitting on the memorial bench, silently watching their eldest son.

"I wasn't in a hurry to get back and Charlie wanted to practice his reading on any signs that might be around campus," Arianne explained as she saw Leonard standing there. "He's very determined."

Leonard nodded and Charlie promptly looked up, "I'm cold, can we go back to Gramma and Grandpa's for some hot chocolate?" the young boy asked in a quiet voice. "I want to practice with my books."

"You go with your daddy," Arianne replied gently, gazing at Charlie. "Mommy needs some alone time."

Charlie nodded and silently walked over to Leonard, "I'll be home later," Arianne said in a quiet voice.

Even though Leonard was concerned as to why Arianne wanted to be alone and why she looked so emotionally drained, he nodded and kissed her on the cheek before leading Charlie off down the path.

Arianne waited until they were out of sight before standing and making a beeline for Starfleet Security where she intended to talk to Phlox alone; it was unnecessary, but it would give her peace of mind.

Cellblock – Starfleet Security

The cell block was quiet, Arianne observed as she entered and saw a young man whom she recognized as Barry Giotto sitting in one chair while Hendorff sat in the other. They were both holding a hand of playing cards and there was a small pot of chips on the desk between them as well as other cards.

"Commander," Giotto spoke up nervously, noticing Arianne standing there. "We were just…"

Arianne sighed, "At ease, gentlemen," she replied calmly. "I would like to visit Doctor Phlox, please."

Hendorff nodded and stood up, "This way," he replied as he walked towards the end of the cellblock.

Arianne silently followed Hendorff to Phlox's cell and found the Denobulan sitting upright on his cot with a text PADD in hand, "Commander McCoy," Phlox spoke as he looked at her. "You've finally come."

"Zachary is my son, did you expect that I'd stay away after you nearly killed him with a blood transfusion?" Arianne asked coldly. "Now, I hear that Sarek wants you transferred to New Vulcan."

Phlox nodded and Arianne crossed her arms, "I understand what damage the combined force of Pa'nar Syndrome and a mental breakdown can do to a being's mind and I can understand why Sarek wants to take Stonn back to New Vulcan," she said in a cold voice, forcing herself to look Phlox in the eyes. "What I don't understand is why Sarek is insisting on you going to New Vulcan to assist in Stonn's treatment?"

"I am quite capable of taking care of members of any species," Phlox replied softly. "Although Doctor M'Benga is also very skilled, he is medically unable to travel right now. I am the appropriate choice…"

Arianne sighed, "Yet, you need an assessment from a qualified medical professional to assist you," she said in a less hostile tone as she noticed how tired Phlox looked. "I didn't think I could do it, but I think I will go ahead and complete it now just to give myself peace of mind. Are you agreeable to that?"

"Yes," Phlox replied nervously, deeply unnerved by Arianne's sudden commanding attitude.

Arianne nodded, "Officer Hendorff, inform Doctor Piper that I am conducting the assessment on Doctor Phlox," she ordered as she took a PADD out, not bothering to turn and see if Hendorff obeyed.

Swallowing hard, Hendorff pulled out his PADD and quickly sent a message to Dr. Piper while keeping his eyes firmly on Arianne and Phlox; he had to be ready in case Phlox tried anything to escape.

Oval Office – Starfleet Presidential Mansion

"How did your assignment go, Lieutenant?" Chris asked in an official voice as he gazed up at Nyota, Pavel, and Hikaru from his wheelchair. "I find it a relief that you elected to seek assistance with it."

Nyota smiled and handed Chris a PADD containing pictures and information on the apartment, "It's a nice place, sir," she replied in an official voice. "It's not furnished, though, so that might be a…"

"Thank you, Lieutenant," Chris replied, cutting Nyota off. "You are dismissed for the evening and I must remind you that this mission is to remain confidential from everyone outside of this small office."

Swallowing hard, Nyota silently nodded and promptly left, "Now, Chekov and Sulu, I'd still like to talk to you about this assignment if you have some time," Chris stated in a quiet voice. "Please, do sit down."

Exchanging a confused look, Hikaru and Pavel sat in the visitors' chairs and waited for Chris to speak.

Residential Area - Presidential Mansion - 2000 H

Commander McCoy is doing the assessment on Dr. Phlox. Enjoy your evening off – Dr. Piper.

Leonard sighed and set his personal PADD on the bedside table before laying down again, deeply exhausted from all that he had been doing to help others. He was out of shape because of being shot, undergoing multiple surgeries, and going back to duty before he was physically ready to go back.

His mother and Kathryn were making sure that Joanna, Charlie, Kathryn, Zachary, and Michael were being properly fed in the kitchen. After being told by Dr. Piper that the recuperating Jim could use an evening of quiet rest, Sam, Aurelan, Peter, George, and Lorian had also come over for the evening.

A chime suddenly sounded and the door slid open, "Len, are you awake?" Leonard heard his mother ask.

"Yes, Mama, I am," Leonard replied in a tired voice, not wanting to sit up or get off the bed at all.

Eleanora walked over to the bed with a bowl of stew in one hand and a mug in the other, "You need to keep your strength up, Len," she said in a gentle voice. "I know you're having a rough time right now."

Letting out a tired sigh, Leonard slowly sat up, "I sent an email to Doctor Piper to see if I can go in for a counseling session in the next few days," he replied in a tired voice as he took the bowl of stew. "Ahh."

Eleanora nodded and silently watched as Leonard picked up the spoon and slowly ate, "You've gotten so thin, so maybe you need to get into an exercise routine too," she commented gently. "Exercise will help you get your physique and health back."

"Maybe," Leonard replied as he ended up quickly finishing the stew and taking the mug. "Mmm, this meal's really good."

Leonard quickly consumed the contents of the mug and promptly yawned, "I should stay up til Arianne gets back," he said in a tired voice, unable to stop himself from getting up and turning the covers down. "She's doing some work for Starfleet."

"You should really go to bed, son," Eleanora spoke as Leonard found himself getting into the bed for a much needed rest.

Too tired to argue back, Leonard laid back and pulled the blankets over him, "I'll tell everyone that you ate and went to bed," Eleanora commented as she took the dishes and moved back to the door. "When Arianne gets back, I'll tell her too."

As Leonard closed his eyes and slipped into a much needed sleep, he could hear his mother shut the light off and leave the room. Even though he had multiple worries on his plate, the comfort that sleep seemed to give him was much stronger.

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