Author's Note: This story contains elements of Michael Chabon's Romulan mythology for the Picard series.
Apologies in advance. It is also a deviation from what I typically like to compose. I enjoy adventure, fluff, and humour.
Contrary to that, this was bittersweet to write.
It's sappy. Melodramatic. And although there are some touching moments, this story is littered with tragedy.
That said, ploughed forward with it regardless because it would not leave me alone.
AU Yesterday's Enterprise. Data/Tasha.
In this story, Tasha holds the rank of Commander. In the original promotion media releases, she is referred to as "Commander Yar" and I'm actually quite salty this didn't come to fruition.
This is a fan-made work written solely because the idea wouldn't leave me alone. I make no profit from this. The Star Trek Universe and the characters contained within it were created by Gene Roddenberry.
C/W: This story depicts the destruction of the Enterprise, Romulan prison, major character deaths, abuse, sexual assault & aftermath, and all-around pretty heavy subject matter. You've been warned.
Chapter Two | Sunset
The next morning, a small bit of sunlight peaks in through a small window near the ceiling of the cell. Data watches it streak across the floor. He wants to welcome the sun. But on this morning, it only brings a disconcerting feeling.
He had set an internal alarm clock to reactivate his systems in the event that Tasha was unable to go through with enacting protocol 817. He looks down at the weight on his chest and sees Tasha asleep against him.
He takes a synthesised breath, and she wakes at the movement. She's always been a light sleeper.
"Morning," she says softly look up at him.
He stares back down at her and she recognises the look of disappointment in his face.
"I'm sorry. I couldn't," Tasha says as she squeezes him tighter.
Across the cell, Castillo coughs. Tasha and Data move toward him and she smiles as he opens his eyes for the first time since he hit the console.
"Do not attempt to get up," Data advises as Castillo looks around him.
"What? What happened?" Castillo asks as he takes in their surroundings.
He can't tell much as he lies back on the bench. But he's figured out they're being held somewhere.
"Klingons?" he questions as he takes in the ceiling above them.
Tasha shakes her head.
"Romulans," Tasha says.
From outside their cell, they can hear one of the guards notifying someone that Castillo is awake.
"And they cannot know about us," Tasha whispers as she leans in closely. "As far as you are aware I am your commanding officer."
Castillo nods in understanding.
General Velius enters their cell a moment later.
"Now that we're all awake, I'd like to show you a taste of Romulan hospitality. Let it never be said that we are anything but accommodating for our guests," Velius advises with a smile.
Velius's idea of Romulan hospitality is a far cry from Federation standards. They are taken to a cold room. Data's read about them- rooms that are intentionally kept around freezing with the intention of making the prisoner uncomfortable.
Six guards move in and proceed to secure Castillo and Green. They are standing, their feet barely touching the ground. Their arms extended above their head, held in place by magnetised restraints. They clamp something on Data's arms and legs, and he is forced to kneel.
In the corner, the same Commander from before is typing away hurriedly on a Romulan tablet.
"It took us several hours to work out exactly what would hold you in place," Velius says.
He taps a small handheld device and Data's hands drop to the floor. His eyes grow wide as he makes clear he is unable to lift them.
"It's a concentrated iron-cobalt magnet activated by this device. It's the strongest magnet we've ever built on Romulus. I don't know what you are, but I know you won't be breaking out of that," Velius smiles.
Two of the guards secure Tasha to the ceiling just like Castillo and Greene. But instead of being next to the others, she finds herself facing the three of them.
"Now that everyone's cosy," Velius says as he walks between them.
He explains that he is General Velius, head of the Tal Shiar. He advises that their cooperation will be appreciated but not required.
"We can gather the information we seek with or without your help Commander Yar. But it will be much easier on your crew, should you choose to assist," Velius explains.
He warns them that any refusal to cooperate will be a futile exercise and that they can expect punishment if they decline his offer.
Velius points at Castillo.
"Lieutenant Richard Castillo, a Starfleet Academy graduate with a degree in Command and currently serving as helmsman aboard your Federation's flagship," the Commander in the corner says as he reads from a small Romulan PADD device.
Tasha doesn't like where this is going.
"And this one?" Velius questions, pointing at Greene.
"Lieutenant Greene. Another shining example of a Starfleet Academy graduate. Has a Command degree and currently serving as a tactical officer aboard the Enterprise," the Commander in the corner says.
Velius stops and spins on his heel to look back at them.
"But you two," he says pointing from Tasha to Data. "You remain a mystery. I have spies in every rank of Starfleet. I had two aboard the Enterprise. And yet somehow, I have no record of either of you existing."
Data watches as Velius begins to circle them.
"Most interestingly, our sensors picked up a strange reading during our firefight with the Enterprise. It seems, for a moment, that you passed through a wormhole for a split second before remerging," Velius tells them. "Now my top intelligence officers have theorised this was a test of a top-secret Federation project."
Velius kneels down next to Data.
"Now, I suspect that the two of you are the ones responsible for this project," Velius says curtly as he pokes Data's face.
Velius stands and takes a step back from Data.
"We know that you're not exactly human. But aside from that, I cannot find a single record of your existence within Starfleet," Velius explains.
One of the guards hands Velius a Romulan pain stick. Velius toys with the device, passing it from hand to hand as he walks between the group.
"So, let's start with something easy," Velius says.
He asks for their names but both Data and Tasha refuse to respond. Tasha braces herself for the incoming pain, but none comes.
Instead, it is Castillo who cries out as Velius presses the pain stick into his chest.
"I will ask again, your names," Velius questions.
Once again, Data and Tasha remain silent.
This time, it is Lieutenant Greene who cries out as Velius hits her square in the chest with the device.
"I grow tired of this," Velius says as he sighs and tosses the pain stick to one his guards.
Velius pulls out a disruptor and hits Greene with it.
Tasha and Data watch in horror as Greene contorts in pain. They know enough about disruptor technology to know that death by disruptor is excruciating as it tears apart the body at the molecular level.
It takes a full minute and half for Greene to die.
"Natasha Yar. Commander. Tactical Officer. Acting Captain, USS Enterprise," Tasha says.
Tasha resolves that no one else is going to die for them.
"See? That wasn't so hard," Velius says with a smile.
He returns his disruptor to its holster and turns to Data.
"And you, mechanical man?" Velius asks as he studies Data.
"Commander Data. I am an android," Data states flatly.
"My chief scientist is eager to get his hands on you. Isn't that right Commander Ferrock?" Velius grins.
The man in the corner looks up from his tablet and nods furiously.
Tasha can't be sure, but he appears squeamish, hiding behind his tablet with each act of brutality.
"Then you should be advised that any attempt to study him beyond external scanning will result in destruction of your facility and Commander Data," Tasha warns.
It's a lie, but she's hopeful the Romulans are too eager for information to risk losing Data.
"Any attempt to study the inner workings of my circuitry will result in melting the material before triggering an antimatter explosion capable of levelling everything within two square kilometres of my location," Data adds hoping to sell Tasha's lie.
He has to give her credit for ingenuity in thinking up that little bit.
"Are you a weapon?" Command Ferrock inquires, glancing up from his tablet to survey Data.
"No, Sir. I am a Starfleet officer. Commander Data. Chief Operations officer and Chief Science officer. USS Enterprise," Data states.
"Then why have I never heard of you? It seems highly unlikely my sources aboard the Enterprise would overlook such a unique officer," Velius says, sceptical of Data's statement.
"Because most of the crew don't see him as a person," Tasha says angrily.
Surprisingly, it works. Velius is an expert interrogator, and he can sense from her reaction that this is true.
Velius continues with his interrogation but he has grown increasingly impatient. While these two Commanders are technically answering his questions, they are providing no new information.
After three hours of dancing around his questions, Velius has reached his limit.
"I've had my fill of fun playing games with you two," Velius says dangerously as steps over to Castillo.
He's barely conscious, his body hardly recovered from the injuries he sustained during their fight with the Romulans.
Velius snaps his fingers and two of the guards approach Castillo. They give him a hypospray that appears to make him more alert.
"Come on, wake up Lieutenant," Velius says as he gently slaps Castillo's face several times.
Castillo's head rolls to the other side. He manages to open his eyes a bit as he takes a ragged, shaky breath.
"Sir, we may learn more if we wait until his wounds are fully healed," Commander Ferrock suggests from the corner.
Velius shoots Ferrock a nasty look before turning back to Castillo.
"He doesn't know anything," Tasha says.
Velius asks Castillo to tell him of the 'secret Federation project' he believes the Enterprise used to disappear.
When Castillo doesn't answer, Velius hits him with the pain stick. But unlike the other times, he does not remove it.
"He doesn't know anything!" Tasha shouts at Velius.
General Velius doesn't budge.
"You're killing him!" Tasha yells in an effort to get Velius to stop.
Castillo's eyes bulge as the pain from the energy weapon surges through his body making it convulse and twitch back and forth against his restraints.
Tasha can't stop herself. Using her restrained arms as an anchor, she swings her legs at Velius and hits him squarely in the back.
It's enough to knock him off balance and he drops the pain stick.
The guards draw their weapons, but Velius throws up his hand ordering them to halt.
To her disgust, Velius laughs as he straightens his Tal Shiar uniform.
Turning to her, he smiles.
"I've broken stronger men than you, Natasha," Velius tells her.
He turns his attention back to Castillo, gripping his chin forcefully and forcing him to look up.
"He doesn't know anything," Tasha pleads.
Velius contemplates what he has observed transpire between the acting Captain and the Lieutenant Castillo. She was quick to care for him during their overnight stay and her concern for his safety was genuine.
Changing his strategy, Velius considers that there may be something more between these two.
She recognises the look in Velius's features.
It's predatory.
And it's one she's seen before in another lifetime on the faraway planet of her birth.
Her fear intensifies as Velius orders the guards out and she steels herself for what is about to happen.
Commander Ferrock makes a move to leave but is stopped by General Velius.
"Stay, Ferrock. Let this serve as a lesson in why force is necessary when dealing with these Federation susse-thrai," Velius orders.
Circling her, he stops and takes her chin. She stares back at him, expressionless.
Tasha refuses to give him the satisfaction of the fear she feels.
"We have already told you all we know," Data says in vain, attempting to stop Velius.
It goes unnoticed by the Romulan Commander, but Tasha can sense there's panic in his voice.
When it's over, Velius thanks her and plants a kiss on her neck.
"Pity this will be his last memory," he says, his voice low against her ear.
Velius hits Castillo with his disruptor and Tasha watches silently as it tears the young Lieutenant apart.
After reattaching the weapon to his holster, Velius exits the room leaving them alone with the Romulan Commander Ferrock.
Ferrock glances from the door to the prisoners.
He sets down his tablet and makes a move toward Tasha.
Ferrock grabs the uniform around her feet. On instinct, she reacts with a swift kick.
"Whoa, easy. Let me get this," he says catching her leg and pulling her uniform up.
"Why?" Tasha asks.
Commander Ferrock does not answer her as he zips up her uniform.
"There," he says quietly as he tucks her bangs behind her ear.
Ferrock steps away as Tasha eyes him suspiciously.
Without another word he gives her a quick nod before retreating, leaving Data and Tasha alone.
Relief washes over Tasha.
She knows that she should be grieving the loss of Castillo, angered about the brutality of Velius, confused by Ferrock's actions, or horrified by the assault she has endured.
But instead, she feels relief.
Because there was a moment where her resolve had failed.
And in a moment of weakness, she had given Velius the information he needed to get what he wanted.
Information that would have been enough to break them both.
Fortunately, it appeared Velius held the same prejudices as many of the humans in Starfleet.
"I've been watching you. I know that you care for him. I heard you whisper it to him," Velius had said.
Tasha had refused to respond, keeping her head down and herself silent in hopes that it would be over soon. She closed her eyes and began to run through the Starfleet standard checklist for away team protocols on arctic planets, anything to keep from making eye contact with Data.
"I see. Closed your eyes? Thinking about him, huh?" Velius taunted her.
Tasha squeezed her eyes shut and ran through the checklist – step one, ensure combadge is functioning; step two, phaser fully charged; step three, proper arctic climate attire including cold weather parka…
"Look at him," Velius ordered.
Tasha tried to block out the sound of the Romulan General in her ear and the feel of his unwelcome breath hot against her Neck. She had focused her concentration – step four, emergency cold weather pack must include hand warmers, camp stove, emergency torch….
"Look at him," Velius repeated angrily as he brought his hand up to grip her neck under her chin.
Tasha opened her eyes and momentarily met eyes with Data.
He was staring at her, emotionless, his face a blank canvass as he tried not give away anything to Velius.
She turned her head to the side, unable to hold his gaze.
"Don't be difficult now, look at him," Velius said dangerously as his grip around her neck tightened.
Her eyes flew open, and she locked eyes with Data.
Silently, she tried to convey her feelings to him as the same thoughts of the day before began to settle in her mind.
Was this really how it would end?
Would their goodbye have to be wordless – unable to tell him how much she truly cared?
Tasha continued to stare at Data, as his face remained emotionless in an attempt to hide their relationship for fear of what Velius could do with that information.
Velius laughed, assuming she was being difficult on purpose - her look to the android just an effort to avoid having to meet Castillo's eyes. He gripped her face and forced her to turn to the young Lieutenant.
"I know you care for him. I heard you say it," Velius mocked. "Tell him how much you love him."
She froze.
In that moment, it had become clear to Tasha that Velius had assumed she'd had feelings for Castillo. Thinking back, she realised that when she had said 'I love you' to Data the night before, she had been sitting next to Castillo.
"Tell him," Velius said slowly against her ear.
He relaxed the grip on her neck enough that she could move.
"I love you," she said, turning to Data.
Velius forced her head away from Data. He brought his other hand up to the back of her head. She realised he could snap her neck then and there if he wanted to.
"Say it," he demanded as he tightened his grip again.
"Data, please," she managed to choke out.
She chastised herself internally for looking at Data and said a silent prayer to the universe that Velius wouldn't see Data as human enough to be considered the one she truly cares for.
"He can't help you," Velius sniggered.
"Commander," Data says pulling her back to the present.
"I'm fine," she replies, unable to meet his eyes.
Data cocks his head at her, concern etched on his features.
"I'll be fine," she says.
Velius has Data removed for some initial scans. They keep Data for days as they scan and study his design. It seems, for the time being, that the Romulans are buying the line that any attempt to 'look inside' will result in destruction.
In the meantime, Velius has Tasha moved back to a holding cell where Commander Ferrock continues to monitor her. Alone, she sits on the bench and waits patiently. Sometimes she stretches on the floor. But most of the time she simply waits patiently.
He's seen prisoners react in many ways to General Velius's methods. Velius has broken Starfleet captains before, but this one is different. She displays no concern over her own anguish.
She appears unbothered by the circumstances of their captivity. Sleep comes easily to the blonde Starfleet officer. Isolation appears to have no impact on her psyche.
She never cries.
She's beyond tears.
It is, as if, she cares not whether she lives or dies.
There's something about it that is so unusual for a human Starfleet officer, something almost Romulan.
As the days go on, Ferrock is fascinated by the unflappable Starfleet officer and the mysterious android. Everything the scientists have told him indicates this mechanical man is a type of technology far beyond the scope of any known current cybernetics research.
There are similarities to the cybernetics research of the reclusive and eccentric Doctor Noonien Soong.
But Soong had disappeared years before.
The Romulans had attempted to entice him numerous times, but Soong had always dismissed their efforts.
The Romulan government has prepared a prisoner exchange for eight of the survivors. It's less than half of the actual surviving crew, but the Romulans intend to keep the rest for information and testing. It is so rare that Federation prisoners drop into their hands.
Curiously, the Federation denies the existence of a Commander Natasha Yar and a sentient android known as Commander Data. In fact, they deny it so emphatically it almost stalls the entire prisoner exchange as some in the Federation believe it is a ruse to plant Romulan spies.
Velius's science officers have completed their analysis of the Federation ship's remains and the readings from the battle. They have evidence indicating the Federation ship travelled through time.
Ferrock theorises the Enterprise was conducting a test on time travel.
Furthermore, he suspects the android officer and Natasha Yar know this and- just possibly- are from the future.
He shares his theory with General Velius.
Velius orders his guards to grab three crewmembers from the main group of survivors.
It takes him less than an hour to elicit the information necessary to confirm his suspicion.
"Thank you, Ensign," Velius says as he leaves the interrogation room, a small skip in his step as he approaches the cell where he's been holding his favourite prisoner.
At the sound of the door opening, Tasha stands.
"Commander," Velius says as he sweeps into the cell with Commander Ferrock.
She doesn't so much as blink as he steps inside.
"The Romulan government is negotiating a prisoner exchange," Velius tells her. "Remarkably, they have never heard of you or your colleague, Commander Data. In fact, they believe you are our attempt to infiltrate the Federation with Romulan spies."
He laughs at the notion, but Tasha remains silent, detached.
"Now, the fate of these officers rests in your hands, Commander," Velius says.
Tasha does not respond.
"But I think your Federation doesn't want you back because you're not supposed to be here in the first place," Velius says with a knowing smile.
He begins to pace the room.
"I think you and that magnificent piece of machinery are from another time," Velius says as he points toward the door.
As one of the most powerful Commanders within the Tal Shiar, Velius is tempted by the idea of having a resource for knowledge of the future. He has seen the specifications of the android. He'd prefer an army of them, but as they cannot learn how without destroying him, Velius is happy to settle for just one sentient android.
Knowledge of these two prisoners has been kept strictly confidential. Hardly anyone within the Romulan government is aware of their existence and Velius intends to keep it that way.
"I am prepared to make you a generous offer, Commander. Should you accept, I will allow the exchange. Should you refuse, I'll have every one of your crew killed and your android melted for scrap," Velius says he leans back against the wall, his arms wide.
Velius has dreams of glory. He's an ambitious man and a risk-taker.
And fate has smiled upon him, dropping these two prisoners in his lap.
"You agreed that my crew would be unharmed," Tasha said angrily, jumping to her feet.
"Those aren't the cries of your crew. They are the screams of my staff," Velius replies.
She can hear the disruptor fire and screams coming from outside of her cell.
It had started shortly after she'd agreed to accept Velius's arrangement.
Upon her acceptance, he'd tapped his communicator and ordered that plan 7R6 be executed.
"Arrangement" was generous.
Velius's terms were that she could willingly come with him as his prisoner– the lives of the crew would be spared, and the prisoner exchange would take place- or she would be unwillingly taken as his prisoner and all of the crew would be executed.
Tasha had already made her mind up that no one else was going to die because of her.
"Your staff?" Tasha asks, horrified.
"You see Natasha, everything eventually outlives its purpose," Velius sneers. "I can't have my staff leaking to the Romulan Senate or my rivals that I have a treasure chest of knowledge about the future in my grasp."
Velius approaches her but she holds her ground.
"No, you're my little secret," he says with a wicked grin.
A beat passes before he poses a question.
"What do you know about Sela?" Velius asks.
He does not wait for her to answer.
"It is a story every Romulan child knows well. It is a legend. A fairy tale about a Romulan Empress with golden hair that ushers in an era of prosperity in which the Romulan Star Empire conquers the endless expanse of the universe," he tells her.
He reaches out and bangs out of her face.
"Blonde hair rare thing of beauty on Romulus," Velius states. "And you, my dear, will help me usher in a new era of Romulan dominance over the Federation. In time, you will tell me everything I need to know."
Tasha is unphased.
She's already living on borrowed time.
If it saves the surviving crew, she doesn't care.
"I will break you, Natasha," Velius promises.
A moment later a disrupter fires and Velius falls to the floor.
Ferrock stands behind him, wide-eyed and breathless.
"No," Ferrock states, his disruptor still aimed at Velius.
"Weak," Ferrock manages to say through gritted teeth as he lays on the floor clutching his side.
"No more," Ferrock says. "No more of this."
Tasha watches silently as Velius's body is ripped apart by the disruptor wound as he disappears entirely.
She's still staring at the spot where his body had been as Ferrock secures his disrupter back into its holster and steps toward her.
His hand on her face pulls her back to reality as he gently strokes her cheek with his thumb.
For a moment, neither of them says anything.
"Can you just get this over with," Tasha says. "I don't have any more information. Just kill me."
"I could never do that," Ferrock says.
"I don't have any more information," she says sadly. "Please. Just let my crew go."
"Velius killed your crew an hour ago," Ferrock informs her.
"Then end this," she states.
He shakes his head.
"No. I'll get you out of here," he tells her as he takes her hand.
At this, she pulls her hand back.
"I don't know anything. I can't help you," she says firmly. "Please just let me die."
She doesn't want to spend the rest of her days as the prisoner of a power-hungry Romulan. She just wants to be at peace.
"I don't want anything from you," Ferrock says honestly, putting his hands up to show he means no harm.
Tasha is both taken aback and confused.
"I won't hurt you," Ferrock says.
She eyes him sceptically, unsure of his intentions.
"I've been watching you since they brought you in," he confesses. "And I find myself enamoured."
He brushes his thumb across her bottom lip.
"Unbreakable," he whispers.
Under normal circumstances she would have broken his hand by now.
But these aren't normal circumstances.
Ferrock is speaking, prattling on about Romulans being unmatched in their dedication and passion, but she's not paying attention.
She feels nothing but the numbness of the last few days.
So many lives have been lost – too many lives – and too much trauma.
"Let me get you out of here. Let me take care of you. I can see to it that your android is moved to a science facility rather than-" Ferrock starts to say.
Tasha cuts him off.
She has seen her window of opportunity and seize it.
"I will accept your offer on one condition," she says.
"Name it," Ferrock replies.
"Commander Data comes with me," she explains.
An unsettling thought strikes the Romulan Commander as his mind drifts back to the interrogation.
It wasn't the blonde Lieutenant she had been speaking to in the dark.
"It's the android," Ferrock says, dejected. "You love the android."
She doesn't have to respond verbally to confirm his suspicion.
"Well then. My desire is to see you happy because I think I love you," he says explains.
He takes her hand his own and places it on his chest.
"And my hope is that, in time, you may come to love me," he says, crestfallen.
Tasha doesn't know what to say.
"Come here," he says as he pulls her close against him.
He taps a band around his wrist a force shield encloses them.
"I assume your android does not require atmospheric conditions to survive?" he asks.
"That's correct," Tasha informs him.
Ferrock taps his communicator.
"Computer, release the Sarin gas," he orders.
Tasha isn't sure how long they stay there, but after some time Ferrock taps his communicator again and orders the computer to flush the atmospheric controls.
After a few minutes he releases the forcefield and lets go of her.
"Come," he says. "Let us find your android."
The hallway is littered with bodies.
Stepping over the victims of the gas, Tasha know fully understands the unwavering determination the Romulans have to conquer.
They will do whatever they must – regardless of the cost – to get what they want.
When they find Data, he is kneeling in a lab with the same magnetic device keeping him bound to the floor.
Ferrock releases the hold and Tasha tells him it is safe to get up.
"What has happened?" he asks as his golden eyes flit from Ferrock to Tasha.
"We're getting out of here," Tasha says as she takes his hand.
Ferrock guides them out of the facility and through the courtyard where they had been initially held.
Tasha's breath hitches as she sees the bodies of the Enterprise-C survivors dead on the ground. Data's auditory receptors pick up on this and gives her hand a small squeeze of reassurance.
It takes them eight minutes to reach the edge of the facility. Ferrock instructs them to climb into a Romulan shuttlecraft. Tasha and Data buckle up as Ferrock takes the pilot seat and the door seals behind them.
He starts the craft, punches in the coordinates, and the three escape into the night.
When they reach his compound, Tasha thinks how alike Romulan architecture is to its people.
The harsh angles and sharp walls are a testament to Romulan ideals of strength and determination.
The complex garden hedges weave a path of confusion and secrecy not unlike the Romulan senate.
Inside, there is a large, angular fireplace that runs the length of the wall in Ferrock's sitting room.
He offers Data and Tasha the opportunity to enter into a Romulan "trust bond." He describes the circumstances of the Romulan trust bond to them in great detail. It is complicated marriage arrangement between three people.
"It would protect you," Ferrock explains.
As a member of the Tal Shiar, Ferrock is a powerful man.
Yet, that power comes at a cost.
Plots and conspiracy are par for the course.
Ferrock explains that Romulans are exceptionally private. Their home compounds are rarely visited by others. Most of his staff live on the premises and there is limited risk of their discovery from the outside.
"Commander-" Tasha starts to say but Ferrock waves his hand.
"Ferrock," he tells her.
"Ferrock," she repeats.
"I know you where your feelings lie," Ferrock says knowingly.
Ferrock informs them that these arrangements were often the result of both political ambitions, the alignment of prominent Romulan houses, and deep, devoted respect for the fellow conspirators.
"I expect nothing from either of you other than your companionship," he says.
Ferrock tells them that he does not share the commonly held Romulan belief that their worlds are incompatible.
"I believe we could learn from each other," Ferrock says looking to Data. "Mutually."
He turns his attention to Tasha.
"I know where your feelings lie. Rest easy, I have no desire to force you into any arrangement," he tells her. "I will inform my staff in the morning."
He pauses for a moment, hesitant about how to explain to them what comes next.
"You will need to be firm in front of my staff. Do not be unfair but you can show no weakness," he informs them. "They will challenge you."
In the eyes of the Romulans, humans are inferior.
Ferrock personally escorts them to his quarters and asks that they stay put for the night.
"It would not do well to go wandering at night. If you are found, you are liable to be shot, especially in these uniforms," he warns them both.
He steps over to the replicator. A moment later he produces a change of clothing for them.
"In the morning, we will cover Romulan systems of measurement, and I will instruct you on how to use the computer," Ferrock states.
A part of Data considers suggesting that he is capable of learning the system rapidly if he can be allowed to connect directly to the system but thinks better of it.
Although Ferrock has given him no direct indication of malice, something inside of Data doesn't quite trust this Romulan.
"In the morning, I will set up quarters for both of you," Ferrock explains. "But for your own safety I think it is best that you stay here tonight. I will sleep on the settee."
He points into an adjoining room that appears to be an office.
"Natasha, please take my bed. And Commander you may-" he starts to say but Data cuts him off.
"I do not require sleep," Data informs Ferrock.
"I see," Ferrock nods.
Data is grateful he does not require sleep because he intends to watch over Tasha through the night.
Ferrock calls to the guards outside the arched frame and for a moment, Tasha's heart jumps to her throat.
"We are not to be disturbed," Ferrock orders before sending them back to the corridor.
If the guards are alarmed by the site of a human and android in their master's bedroom, they do not show it.
"Only for your protection," Ferrock explains.
Tasha nods in understanding. There is no door between the corridor and the sleeping quarters.
Suddenly, the weight of the last few days is suddenly heavy on her.
"If you would like to bathe the facilities are through that door," Ferrock states as he hands Tasha a clean flannel and points in the direction of a door on the opposite wall.
"Thank you," she states.
When she reaches the door, she turns and looks at Data. Wordlessly, she indicates she would like him to follow.
He takes a step toward her.
"Surely an android has no need to wash," Ferrock comments, stopping him. "Will you not rust?"
"I am perfectly capable of being submerged without damage to my system," Data says scientifically.
There is a tension between the two men and both of them can feel it.
Tasha can sense it too.
"Data could you help me with," she says as she tugs on the shoulder of her uniform.
She looks at Ferrock apologetically.
"I'm quite sore," she adds.
It's partially true, but all three of them know the real truth is that she would simply like a moment alone with Data.
"Well then, goodnight," Ferrock states as he steps into the office.
Ferrock resigns himself that although he doesn't understand her attraction to the android, it was a necessity in order to get out of her facility.
She may be fixated on the machine- but at heart Ferrock is a Romulan.
And all Romulans are conquerors.
He has no desire to force a relationship.
But he has every intention of winning her affections.
Behind the privacy of the door to the washroom, Tasha finally feels like she can breathe.
It is the only room they have seen thus far with an actual door.
She turns on the tap and steam begins to fill the room.
When they were on board the Enterprise, water was a luxury. Water rations meant a bath – a real bath – was a rare occasion.
Data's hands find the zipper at her neck.
As he slips it over her shoulders, the weight of the trauma of the last few days is stripped away along with her uniform.
"I do not believe we should trust Ferrock completely," Data whispers.
"I don't know what's going to happen to us," she says.
He turns and shuts off the tap.
She dips her toe in the water, but at the moment it's too hot for her skin.
Hissing, she retracts her foot.
"Sorry, I guess I'm just eager for a hot bath," she confesses.
He takes the flannel from her hand, dips it into the hot water, and rings it out.
Wordlessly, he brings it to her shoulder and runs it down the length of her arm. He gently washes away the dirt and sweat on her face and carefully cleans her hands.
Once he finishes, he brings her hand to his lips and places a soft kiss on her palm.
"I do not believe Ferrock is pleased by my presence," Data says.
He rings the flannel out again in the water and turns back to her.
Something inside of him suspects there will be few opportunities for privacy under Ferrock's roof.
"Tasha there are a great many things I would like to tell you," Data states.
She pulls him toward her and rests her forehead against his.
"You don't have to say it," she replies as her hands find the zipper of his uniform and drag it down.
Neither of them says it aloud, but there's something symbolic about stripping off their Starfleet uniforms.
In a sense, it feels like the final act of leaving the life they know behind them.
She pulls Data down to the floor. Her hands find his chest and she gently pushes him back against it, the cool tile beneath him.
Tasha climbs on top of him. She brings a finger to her lips in the universal sign of silence to stop his protest that this is neither the time nor place for such an activity.
But she needs this. She needs to feel his skin against her own. She needs to know he's real.
And she needs to be in control.
Because after the trauma of Velius, she needs to distinguish between sex and rape, to remind herself that Data will never hurt her, to remember that this can feel good.
She rests her hands on his chest and takes solace as it rises and falls. His respiratory system is artificial, but each breath he takes is a comfort.
Data understands this. It's a road they've been down before during the start of their relationship.
After a few minutes, she takes hold of his hand.
He follows her signal and sits up, one hand still firmly laced within her own fingers, the other holding the small of her back.
It is slow at first, but familiar.
Eyes locked on one another, they silently find a rhythm and Tasha reminds herself that it's OK to take pleasure in this.
Over the next two months, Data and Tasha grow into an uneasy routine with Ferrock.
He has many questions, but holds true to his promise that they will not be harmed.
They learn to use the Romulan technology in his compound and he provides them with access to a vast library of Romulan literature. There are vast gardens for Data to study plant life and Tasha to run through.
He assigns a staffer to instruct them in Romulan martial arts.
Ferrock is considerate, genial, and inquisitive.
However, Data and Tasha have little privacy.
The three of them take their meals together and despite giving them private sleeping quarters, he's insisted the be separate.
There are times when Ferrock travels with his duties to the Tal Shiar.
However, it seems most of his responsibilities keep him close to home.
At every turn, it seems like Ferrock is present to disrupt any chance of them being alone.
His efforts to earn Tasha's affections begin to grow tiresome.
He's sweet, but overbearing.
One evening while the three of them are together in his study, it reaches a point that it's all too much.
"I was thinking I could take you to the see the Valley of Chula," Ferrock suggests as he strokes Tasha's hair.
Tasha stiffens at the touch.
"Ferrock," Tasha says, finally feeling brave enough to confront the issue. "I don't want to sound ungrateful but please don't touch me like that."
He pulls his hand back and apologises.
From across the room, Data sits up and sets down the Romulan PADD device he has been reading from.
"Ferrock, I'm grateful for what you've done for us, but we need to talk," she says.
Ferrock sits on the edge of the settee where Tasha is sitting.
"Natasha, I just want to make you happy," he says as he takes her hand.
She flinches at the use of her full name. She dislikes it every time it falls from his lips.
"When we entered into this arrangement you said you wouldn't push for anything beyond companionship," she reminds him.
Ferrock nods.
"I also told you that in time it was my hope that you would come to share my feelings," he replies with a smile.
"But I don't," Tasha says bluntly. "And that won't change, Ferrock. I can't give you what you want from me. I don't know what to say other than I am sorry that I can't love you the way you want me to. I think that you are a kind man. I am willing to be a part of this trust bond. But I have no romantic feelings for you, and I never will."
"Natasha, let me show you the passion of a Romulan heart," Ferrock says as he reaches up to stroke her face.
She pulls away from his touch.
He's hurt, deeply.
"I understand," he says.
His voice is controlled, but it can't hide the pain in his face.
"Please, find someone that can love you the way you deserve," Tasha says encouragingly.
Romulan trust bonds aren't about romance. Both Data and Tasha have encouraged Ferrock to seek out a romantic partnership outside of their trust bond.
She's trying to be supportive, but it only seeks to further his growing sense of resentment.
"I will honour your wish, Natasha," he says sadly as he stands and exits, leaving them alone.
Later that night, Ferrock stands in her quarters outside of her bedchamber.
He has come with the intention of apologising for his earlier behaviour.
Ferrock is a passionate man.
All Romulans are.
And after cooling down, he has reminded himself that she is only human, and that he must earn her trust again before proceeding with his efforts to win her love.
But that was before.
Now, standing outside the arch that leads to her bedchamber he is overcome by grief, rage, and jealousy simultaneously.
He can hear them.
They aren't evening trying to hide it.
He's brought them into his home, saved them from a fate worse than death, and they've made him a cuckhold.
Ferrock feels like a fool, standing in the dark listening to them together, humiliated by the fact that the woman he loves would rather take pleasure in a machine than himself.
Slipping into the dark and staying close to the stone wall, he risks a glance.
He's imagined what she would look would she permit him to touch her.
He is disgusted with himself for violating their privacy.
Yet Ferrock cannot pull himself away, captivated by the sight of her head thrown back in ecstasy in the arms of the android he has come envy.
He watches silently as the moonlight from Romulus's two moons hits her blonde hair and dances off Data's pale hands running along the length of her exposed back.
Frozen in place, Ferrock vows her will find a way to win her over.
Listening to the sound of them whispering to one another, he realises there is only one thing he can give her that the android can't.
Ferrock is a patient man.
He has bided his time the last three months – giving them space and gaining their trust.
He's stopped bringing her flowers. He no longer makes any attempts at physical contact.
Instead, he is the model of friendly compassion from a respectful distance.
All the while, he's watched them from a distance- observing their every move.
They no longer hide behind any façade of separation. He knows the time has come.
With a letter from his brother in hand, he sets his plan into motion.
Ferrock informs Data and Tasha that he needs to speak with them.
Once they are in his study, he hands Data his PADD which displays the communication from his brother.
The android quickly scans the screen. He looks up at Ferrock and cocks his head to the side.
He knows Data now has an adept understanding of Romulan law having studied it from Ferrock's library.
A dark look passes between Data and Tasha.
"What?" she asks Data.
Internally, Ferrock fumes at the fact she doesn't ask him or even look at him.
She speaks only to the android and it eats at his heart.
"My brother will have a child," Ferrock explains. "It means he will have the right to lay claim on this compound."
"Query, when is the child due?" Data inquires.
"Three months along now so in about eleven months," Ferrock explains. "The typical Romulan gestation period is longer than humans."
"I don't understand," Tasha replies.
Ferrock seethes as Data steps in to clarify.
"Under Romulan law, a family compound is typically inherited by the eldest child. However, if the head of the family is without an heir, it is possible for the next eldest sibling with offspring to claim rights to take over the family compound," Data states.
"As I have no children, I will lose my position as head of the family," Ferrock says. "My brother is aware of you and does not feel a human belongs in his household. Should he assuming control, our trust bond will be invalidated. I may be able to keep you as a consort, but Data would be turned over to the Romulan authorities."
A weight settles on Tasha as the reality of their precarious position sets in.
"I have no right to ask you this, but he will supersede me unless you would agree to-" Ferrock begins to say but Tasha stops him.
"Yes," she says looking to Data. "I'll do it."
For the first time in months, he reaches for her hand to pull her gaze in his direction.
"I do not know what to say," Ferrock says.
She pulls her hand back from him with an uneasy smile.
"Well, I assume the Romulan process of implanting an embryo is similar to humans," she says as she stands. "How long will it take before, well, you know?"
Ferrock looks down to the floor.
"Romulan medical won't touch you," Ferrock tells her. "I made inquires prior to presenting this."
It's partially a lie. He knows there are many Romulan physicians who will refuse, but he also suspects that if he were to legitimately search he could find one willing to perform an artificial insemination procedure.
She looks to Data, suddenly uncomfortable at the prospect.
He is at a loss for words.
"Then I don't know how we can do this," she says suddenly.
"If I may make a suggestion, I believe what you would call 'the traditional method' would suffice and there are methods we could employ to track your fertility without the use of advanced medicine," Data explains.
"I mean how can we do this safely if Romulan medical won't touch me. I can't deliver on my own," she says, eyes wide with alarm.
She's seen the painful, ancient method of homebirth on Turkana and knows first-hand it is a far cry from the options advanced medicine can offer.
Panic begins to set in as her mind races with the possibilities of what this could mean. Maternal mortality rates on Turkana are high. She watched her own mother die after giving birth to her sister.
"Humans have given birth unassisted for thousands of years, Tasha," Data states. "Although I do not have the medical equipment necessary to relieve the pain, I have the necessary knowledge to safely deliver a child assuming there are no complications with the pregnancy and delivery."
She shoots Data a dark look.
"They will deliver a child," Ferrock assures her. "I can bring a Romulan medic here to do so."
He takes hold of both Data's and Tasha's hands.
"But this is a decision we must all make together," he adds.
He's putting on airs that this is a mutual decision between the three of them if their trust bond will produce a child.
Secretly he hopes that having a child will be the thing that can finally bring them together.
In the end, Tasha agrees as she sees no other way. They've been on Romulus for five months now and Ferrock has told them time and again that escape is not possible.
Not that they would have anywhere to go.
When she comes to his bed, it's not quite the passion he imagined.
He has to force away the thought that her heart isn't fully in it.
She's friendly enough, with her fingers entwined in his hair as his face buries into her neck.
As Ferrock relishes in the feeling of her skin against his own, Tasha stares at the ceiling of his quarters and wonders how much more peaceful existence would be if she had died aboard the Enterprise-C.
They try for months.
Each time he finishes, she leaves immediately - slipping back to her own quarters and into the arms of the waiting android.
There are times Ferrock follows after her - sneaking into her quarters, hiding in the shadows, hurt feelings festering at the site of them together.
Most of the time, she simply asks him to hold her afterwards.
Other times they make love, Ferrock listening enviously at the things she says to Data that she does not say to him.
Sometimes, she cries.
But each time is unsuccessful, month after month, time and again.
Until the seventh month.
A home medical scan is able to confirm the pregnancy.
Ferrock is pleased at the prospect, but saddened by the fact there is no longer any reason for her to return to his bed.
A month later, Ferrock tells Data and Tasha that his brother's wife has miscarried.
It is a lie – the entire pregnancy was to begin with – but it has now fulfilled its purpose and Ferrock doesn't want any loose ends in case Data decides to snoop into his family history.
He comes to regret this as Tasha becomes overwhelmed with anxiety at the prospect of losing her own pregnancy.
The compatibility of a human/Romulan child is possible but it does increase the risk.
Ferrock does secure a Romulan physician to provide antenatal care, but she's cold, biased, and openly prejudiced to Tasha.
To Ferrock's revulsion, this drives Tasha further into Data's arms.
Tasha is sitting in the study reading when she feels like she's being watched.
She turns to see Data behind her, simply staring.
Tasha gives him a funny and look.
"What are you looking at?" she asks.
She knows that from time to time he can get lost in his own thoughts as he processes information.
"You," Data says as he comes to sit beside her. "I believe the human expression is 'you are glowing'."
Suddenly, Tasha grimaces.
"Are you alright?" Data asks, his voice full of concern.
"She's at it again. I swear this kid knows more aikido than I do, and she thinks my bladder is a punching bag," Tasha says.
Data rests his hand on her swollen belly and smiles at the feel of the movement.
"Tasha, may I remind you that you do not know the sex or gender of this child at this time," Data says.
He's observed her refer to the foetus as 'she' on 149 separate occasions.
"I just have a feeling, Data," she says as she sets the PADD down.
She's felt so lucky to have him here as he's filled the role of both primary antenatal care and father – tracking her hydration, massaging her feet, monitoring her blood pressure and glucose levels, answering each of her endless series of questions, and assuring her time after time that everything will be alright.
He assures her that he's seen to every detail of arranging a safe and appropriate nursery off her quarters for the baby and that he will be fully prepared to be an equal partner in caring for the child.
One afternoon, Ferrock approaches them as they are in the garden. He's presents Tasha with something that looks like a Romulan warbird on the end of a small stick.
"It's a rattle for the baby," Ferrock explains. "It was mine when I was a child, before that it was my father's, and before that it belonged to my father's father."
"Thank you," Tasha tells him in earnest.
Romulans keep few personal possessions so she recognises the significance of this gift.
"I also came because we need to discuss names," Ferrock says.
"I have read extensively about Romulan naming tradition," Data informs him.
Ferrock has to bite back his anger at the android's statement.
"With all due respect, Data, your research cannot begin to understand the depth of tradition, rich history, and significance of Romulan naming," Ferrock asserts.
"I am most pleased you are willing to include us in this," Data replies in earnest much to Ferrock's frustration.
He explains that each Romulan child is given four names at birth, the first of which will be a name only known within the family.
There is also a second name which the child will use for their education and religious devotion.
The third name is their Imperial name by which the state will identify them. This the formal name of a child and will be used during any service to the Romulan Star Empire and its Senate and military.
"Service is compulsory," Ferrock reminds them.
Finally, there is an open name which Romulans use to identify themselves amongst one another outside of their household and service.
"Finally, there is a fifth name used only in the most intimate of settings," Ferrock informs them knowing this is not something Data could have researched.
The true name is chosen by the Romulan themselves upon reaching the age of seventeen.
A Romulan's true name is shared only among lovers that dedicate themselves to one another. Even in trust bonds, it is rare for the other members to know the true names of one another.
True names are not recorded and are closely guarded Romulan secret.
"What is your true name?" Tasha asks him.
"It is only for lovers," Ferrock says shaking his head, the idea of withholding this giving him a slight thrill.
The typical Romulan gestation period is fourteen months but Data had warned her that the baby may arrive closer to a typical human gestation period.
To Tasha's relief, Ferrock is away on assignment with the Tal Shiar when her daughter decides to make her entrance into the world at 34 weeks.
It's a rough labour, and Tasha's grateful Data is with her – calm, collected, and ready to have his hand squeezed harder than any human could withstand.
She's early.
And just like her mother, she's a spirited wee thing with a mess of blonde hair.
The Romulan medic that delivers her is appalled – loudly stating her displeasure at the idea of human DNA polluting the Romulan genetic pool.
Data promptly escorts her out upon completion of the birth.
As Tasha holds her daughter, Data states what they are both thinking.
"The genetic likelihood that she would be born with blonde hair and blue eyes was a rare possibility," he says. "It is possible her hair will darken in time."
Data's research and Ferrock's warnings have made clear that should their child's identity as half-human become common knowledge, the child will face prejudice.
"She has golden hair, just like her daddy's eyes," Tasha says softly as she looks at Data.
His synthetic heart skips a beat as an inexplicable warm feeling overtakes his neural net at her words.
They both wonder how long the feeling of this bliss will last.
Data has explained that Romulan children typically leave home between the ages of five and six to begin education at a learning house where they are boarded year-round. Tasha notes this is the same age at which she was abandoned. She hopes that if her daughter stays blonde, Ferrock will permit her to raise the child on her own at the compound and avoid the typical Romulan upbringing.
Tasha hasn't posed this question openly to Ferrock yet, but intends to do so upon his return.
"Since Ferrock is not here, what do you propose on calling her until his return?" Data asks.
They had collectively agreed that Ferrock would choose the family name, but he had failed to share it with them before departing.
Data has selected the child's second name to be used for education and religious purposes. He's chosen the name 'Lal' because it means beloved.
As a trust bond, they decided Tasha would choose the child's Imperial name for service and official use.
Tasha had previously decided on 'Guinan.'
It seemed fitting given the circumstances that led to her birth. And although, Guinan had told her during their last conversation that they weren't meant to know each other, in the timeline Tasha knew, Guinan was her closest friend next to Data.
But as she stares down at the mess of wispy blonde hair, Tasha can't help her memory drifting back to the words of the Tal Shiar general during their dark, early days on Romulus.
Since that time, she has read plenty on the Romulan legend of the blonde warrior empress leading her people to glory.
Given her violent upbringing on Turkana, Tasha understands directly how important it is to have every advantage you can.
In that moment she decides that maybe, just maybe, she could do something to ease this little golden-haired girl's life by giving her a name that carries a deep symbolism in the Romulan Empire, something that will give her and advantage amidst the plots and conspiracies, something that will set her apart, and frame her blonde hair as a thing of glory rather than a weakness to be ashamed of.
"Sela," Tasha says.
Ferrock is deeply embedded in a secret operation aboard a cloaked ship as she gives birth. He had seen no harm in accepting the assignment at the time, given that Tasha wasn't expected to deliver for another 16 – 20 weeks.
He's gone for three months, completely unreachable, and Data and Tasha relish every moment of their time alone with little Sela.
Data catalogues every development with the precision of an android and the eagerness of a new parent as they work to develop a routine with their wee bairn.
As he requires no sleep, Data also tries to keep Tasha on a strict schedule with plenty of rest.
But some nights, she wants to get up with the baby.
"I don't want to miss out on the experience," she tells him.
Tasha is cradling Sela in the nursery off her bedchamber when Data comes up behind her.
"Our child is growing much too fast," he whispers, now fully grasping the human colloquialism with new understanding as she coos and grasps his finger.
"Yeah, she is," Tasha agrees softly.
With each passing day she gets bigger.
And with each passing day it becomes increasingly apparent that her blonde hair and blue eyes are not going away.
When Ferrock finally gets word that Tasha has given birth, he races home.
He's horrified at the thought that he's missed the birth.
This child is supposed to bring her closer to him.
And now, the android has had three months alone with his wife and baby.
When he arrives at the compound, it is just before dawn. He is greeted by Tasha.
She's friendly enough, but much to his dismay she is not interested in returning his embrace with the same enthusiasm.
She warns him the baby has been fussy as of late and that they've only just gotten her settled down.
"We have a daughter?" Ferrock says with a smile.
"Yes," Tasha replies.
She flashes him a genuine smile and it warms his heart, because for the first time she has smiled at him this way.
He's seen her smile before – plenty of times – but never in his direction, never at something he's said.
She escorts him to the nursery where Data is seated in a rocking chair, reading.
Data welcomes him back with a warm handshake.
Peeking down into the cot, he sees his daughter for the first time.
Ferrock is stunned at her blonde hair and alarmed by her lack of Romulan features.
She looks human. Entirely too human.
"I have carefully catalogued every detail of her development and input them into a report that is loaded on the compound's computer system if you would like to review it," Data says softly as he leans next to Ferrock. "I did not want you to feel like you have missed any key milestones in Sela's development."
Ferrock has to mask his disgust at the android's use of 'our child' to describe his baby.
"Sela?" Ferrock asks louder than intended.
It wakes the baby.
"Would you care to-" Data suggests motioning to the crying infant.
But Ferrock's mind is elsewhere.
Data scoops up Sela instead as Ferrock turns to Tasha for an explanation.
"Sela?" he repeats.
"I decided her Imperial name is Sela," Tasha says. "I hoped it would please you and maybe give her leg up. As you can clearly see, she's not exactly the spitting image of a Romulan."
There is a brief pause.
Both Data and Tasha can sense there is a tension in the air.
And it seems little Sela can sense it too, as she fusses in Data's arms.
"Is that a problem?" Tasha questions.
Ferrock is outraged.
The idea of naming this child after the mythical Romulan empress is an insult.
Her very existence is already an affront to the Romulan Empire.
Now, naming her after a fabled hero has set her up for a lifetime of ridicule. Ferrock cannot fathom how to explain the shame of this to Tasha.
Tasha notes the brief flash of anger in his eyes before he swallows his rage.
"It's fine," Ferrock replies stiffly before walking out, leaving them alone with the baby.
She can feel that Ferrock is upset.
She tells herself it must be the same concern that Data and Tasha share over the knowledge that their daughter's human features will mean hardship and discrimination.
In the back of her mind there is something nagging at her, telling her this isn't the source of the anger she senses from Ferrock.
Tasha can't put her finger on it, but it feels like something has changed.
The dynamic of their trust bond has shifted.
Tasha leans her head against the wall and watches Data and Sela in front of the window.
The sun is starting to come up. They've been up half the night with the wee bairn- Data insisting Tasha sleep and Tasha refusing to let Data do it alone.
"Blue skies smiling at me, nothing but blue skies can I see," Data sings softly. "Blue days, all of them gone. Nothing but blue skies from now on."
For the moment, Little Sela has calmed.
Tasha's comforted in knowing that in the grand scheme of the universe their love isn't just a footnote – because they have each other. And they have Sela.
As she watches Data rock her little blonde baby, singing and pacing back and forth in front of the large window she thinks to herself how lucky she is that she not perish aboard the Enterprise-C.
Is this what Guinan had seen? She muses to herself.
As for Data, his singing earns him a smile.
And watching his wee lass smiling up at him is like sunshine to a soul he isn't sure he has.