This is a fictional story, I own nothing in the Star Trek universe.
Chapter 1
Wesley Crusher walked slowly down the hall rubbing his eyes. He suppressed a yawn vowing to die before letting any senior officer see him yawn. He had just finished a second shift Helm Duty, a quick dinner at 10 forward was next, then straight to bed, he had first shift tomorrow 0700 sharp.
Wesley stole into the restaurant as alerted and composed as he could. 'a Star fleet officer was always composed no matter what the hour. ' that thought made him frown... Like anyone was going to look up to him or look at him for that matter. He sat at an empty stool at the bar and ordered a cheeseburger and Coke.
"Wesley welcome; 3rd Shift breakfast?" Guinan asked. Wesley smirked pleased that someone thought he looked so put together after 8 hours at the helm.
"No, just finished second and I start again first thing in the morning."
"Is that so? Are your dinners always this formal... And lonely?" She asked.
Wesley resented her knowing smile. "Do you have to remind me Guinan? I just have so little time for fraternizing."
"Your colleagues seem to manage it." She pointed to a group of Junior officers from various decks enjoying laughter at a nearby table.
"They're all a year ahead of me... And, well, they seem pretty resentful of my position on the bridge." he answered.
"Well, I hear some new Cadets are due to join us tomorrow."
"Sure, wait till they find out I engage in science projects and study engineering, for fun!" He added, along with a dorky face insulting himself. Guinan smiled.
"Well the newcomers don't have any opinion of you yet. I know when I find myself with new people I see a new opportunity to... Change myself if I want." She left with a wink.
Wesley finished his soda and left. As he turned in for the night he actually felt excited about the new Cadets. This would be the perfect chance to make some new friends.
0700
Wesley sat at the helm control. The Enterprise was on its way to the Aurora system to explore an anomaly on a dwarf planet orbiting a rare dying star, near Irisia 3. ETA in six hours. He was excited to see the phenomenon for himself. He was not an astronomy major, but he hoped he could witness the Star morphing into the black hole it would become. Meanwhile, he brought up a file he had been studying on his computer monitor.
*Transporter room to Captain Picard.*
"Picard here."
*The new recruits are ready to beam aboard on your orders sir.*
"On my way. Number one, you have the bridge."
Wesley was startled when a hand grabbed his shoulder.
"Captain?"
"Ensign, I want you to accompany me in welcoming our new crew members. They might feel more at ease meeting the member of my bridge who is their age."
"Yes sir."
The turbo lift ride would only be a couple of minutes. Wesley would hardly have any time to put on an authoritative face, one he was still perfecting.
"How many new recruits are arriving sir?"
"3, in the fields of medicine, engineering, and are supposed to be the very best and brightest in their fields of study. Each have already made significant contributions to Star fleet."
"Have they already started at Star fleet Academy?"
"No not yet, they are too young, as I said around your age. Yet, Star fleet does not wish to force them to wait. They are the result of new type of special training. That is why they have the Cadet rank. I for one am honored to participate in their training. The Enterprise has always been a teaching ship filled with experts and apprentices in every field. It's part of how we carry out our mission to explore the unknown Universe."
"And the contributions they made, do they benefit the Enterprise?"
"Absolutely. This ship is always the first to install the latest Technologies. And giving first-hand experience to 3 Stellar pupils could only encourage other ships to begin a similar exchange program."
They arrived at the transporter bay.
"I want you, Ensign...to help them, ease, into the culture of the Enterprise. Most youths of your shared ages do not usually achieve such mature accomplishments. They may feel isolated; doubtful at times."
"In other words nerds and bookworms like me?" Wesley smiled showing his words were meant as humor.
"Like all the Great's." Captain Picard said.
They stepped into the room; Chief O'Brien stood behind the console.
"Energize."
"Aye captain."
Wesley's heart dropped into his stomach as he watched the silver particles beam in 3 humanoids. Wesley was annoyed that the captain did not tell him that two of the three persons were aliens. Maybe the captain assumed he knew or assumed he should have considered the possibility or maybe the captain assumed it did not matter or...maybe he should stop second-guessing himself. There was a female Elysian, A male Bolian, and a female Human. Wesley had little experience with all three species.
"Welcome aboard." Captain Picard said stepping forward.
"Reporting for Duty captain!" All 3 exclaimed.
Wesley briefly met O'Brien's questioning eyes. Wesley was surprised to see the captain give each person their world's customary greeting.
As to be expected the Elysian was wearing exoskeleton armor over her blue Star fleet uniform, due to the gravity on board being too high for her species. Still she stood as straight as the others.
The Bolian was a familiar humanoid to Star fleet. He was a shade bluer then any other Wesley had seen and wearing a toupee. Wesley knew that all male Bolians were bald but that it was in fashion for them to wear... hair. In this case light brown waves.
Finally Wesley examined the female human as she spoke with Picard. She had long flowing raven black hair, layers of it. She had the most orbis sparkling jade colored eyes, and eyebrows that arched gracefully at the corners. Her rosy pink lips were long and plump, and bright olive-toned skin covered her body. She had a cute triangular chin that he imagined would fit nicely between his thumb and forefinger.
"Alexis Shepard, Cadet 2nd class." She was saying.
"Second? I was told all of you were third class." Captain Picard said.
"My 16th birthday was 4 months ago. Star fleet is in a hurry to move me up. Some wanted me to join the Academy right away, but seeing as I outrank the 4th class cadets in year one, I decided I want to soak up my extraordinary opportunity to serve aboard the Enterprise." Alexis explained.
"We look forward to a mutually rewarding experience. Let me introduce you to our Helmsman Ensign Wesley Crusher."
Feeling pressured, Wesley wasn't sure whether to shake hands or what. Quickly, he chose to simply shake.
"Ensign, will you escort our new Cadets to their quarters, then give them a tour of all main decks." Picard turned to the arrivals again.
"Your orders will be sent to you shortly. You will report for Duty then. Dismissed."
All in the room saluted the captain. Then savored the last moments of his presence, watching him walk away until his shadow disappeared onto the turbo lift. Now they were alone, forced to speak.
"Welcome aboard the Enterprise." Wesley said.
"Thank you." Alexis said. More awkward silence followed.
"Follow me to your quarters." Wesley lead each to their room set on different floors so they could be closer to their assignments. He saved Alexis for last; if she noticed that engineering would have been closer going to first, he appreciated her not saying so. She also told him to call her Lexi.
"Door controls here, replicator over there, and window and light controls next to the...um," He stuttered pointing with his hand, "The..."
"The bed?" Lexi finished for him.
He nodded and turned to leave the room. "I'll let you rest."
"Let me rest? Didn't the captain order you to show us around?" Lexi said.
"Yes, it's only...Sicero and Micall said they wanted to rest up; get an early start tomorrow."
She laughed. "Those cowards, we all promised not to be Wallflowers but..."
She walked up to the wall mirror and blew out hard making her bangs bounce. Then, Wesley watched in amusement as she turned her head side-to-side and practiced her smile. It was a spectacular one.
"I've been waiting all day in a dull cargo bay on an even duller star port." She said. "I'm up for a tour."
Wesley obliged her. They toured the engine room, medical Wing, the Arboretum, theater and arts deck. They also visited the Holo Suite deck, and security wing. Lexi Shepherd was a pleasure to walk around with. Her entire demeanor was one of a calm confidence and she was as sharp as a mining laser. Wesley felt comfortable with her and he enjoyed the questioning looks the other male officers gave him. He'd like to think they were jealous.
They entered the turbo lift.
"The Science Lab is next. You're really going to love this; try to get clearance into the open projects Wing, you'll see some amazing things at work." he said.
"Ooh, clones, portals, an alternate universe?" Lexi asked.
"No, not really that kind of thing."
"Oh, yawn then." Lexi faked yawned. "Kidding, sounds like an excuse to hang out another day. Why don't we check out something far more interesting?"
"Like?"
"Oh come on! You know... The bridge."
"I don't know. It's restricted." Wesley said frowning.
"Not for you. Captain Picard said you were the Helmsman, besides I'm going to be debuting my skills up there soon as well. You could get away with giving me a peek." Lexi grinned mischievous.
"I would hate your first encounter on the bridge to be a reprimand." Wesley said.
"I'll risk it...why not?" Lexi stepped a little closer to him, smiling...just smiling and staring, and all Wesley could feel was assured confidence. Yes, yes! Going to the bridge was a wonderful idea.
"Computer, to the bridge." He said.
"Sweet!" She clapped. God, she was cute Wesley thought.
When they arrived, Wesley stepped out first. He heard Lexi give a shaky sigh. Suddenly Wesley too felt nervous...maybe this wasn't such a good idea. Then, the feeling was gone, he was Wesley...himself again.
Lieutenant Worf stepped forward. "Is there something you need? Are you lost?"
Wesley swallowed, but stepped forward chin up shoulders back. "I'm giving the new Cadet a tour of the ship, Captain's orders."
"I was not informed that included the bridge." Worf said.
"What's going on here ensign?" It was commander Riker strolling up the ramp. Lexi flew by Worf and Wesley. Wesley was a little shocked and more than a little irritated at how closely she stood in front of Riker.
'Total invasion of personal space.' He thought
But instead of taking a step back as Wesley guests would happen Riker smiled.
'I've been hoping to meet you Commander Riker, Wesley was kind enough to show me the bridge." Lexi said. Meanwhile Worf looked outraged.
"That's quite alright Mister Worf." Riker said "After all it is the captain's orders. Welcome aboard Ensign...?" Riker gently held her hand in a lingering shake.
"It's Cadet actually, Cadet 2nd class Lexi Shepherd."
"Welcome aboard Cadet Shepard. What is your area of expertise?" Riker asked.
"Weapons and tactical operations, sir." She answered.
"Well, you've met Lieutenant Worf. I'm sure he looks forward to the new installation of the weapon upgrades."
They all looked towards Worf who only glowered and huffed. The chief of security always hated it when his duty to secure the bridge was undermined by dangerous human sentimentality.
Lexi hurried in an almost indecent adolescent manner and stood in as close proximity to Worf that she had Riker.
"I have read and reread your impressive record sir. It is a tactical officer of your Elite status that makes me strive for strategic excellence. I'm excited to work with you." She held Worf's gaze with her right eyebrows slightly arched.
"I too look forward to testing the new upgrades together," he said. Wesley was not the only one on the bridge with his eyes wide and shock.
"That's the longest sentence you've ever spoken to a junior officer." Wesley whispered.
"Can I see where you work Wes?" Lexi turned to him asking.
'Wes? Oh heck yes!'
"Certainly, over here." For the next 20 minutes Lexi sat at the helm controls.
Deanna Troi walked onto the bridge, finished with her afternoon lunch. The feeling at 10 forward was the delicious excitement of curious minds, most focused on the dying star. It had been over 100 years since any ship had witnessed a new born black hole in person. Usually probes were sent it and the ship left. Not this time, the celestial show was truly a privilege.
"Afternoon Will." but as she sat down she sensed something new; something strange. Riker saw Deanna glancing at the two young people across the bridge, he smiled...He was in a good mood.
"Cadet Shepard, please come meet our ship's counselor, Lieutenant Commander Troi. Deanna, this is our newest, brightest Cadet, she's going into engineering weapon systems."
'Cadet?', Deanna mouthed to Riker. She was bothered with such lax standards on the bridge.
"Hello, counselor I'm…" Lexi again, Wesley we couldn't help but notice, stepped in close, but then faltered and almost as quickly stepped back. "I'm Cadet Shepherd. Wesley was giving me a tour of the ship."
Troi stared curiously back, but with a warm smile etched on her large Betazoid face. "It's good to have you aboard Cadet."
"Thank you. Wesley, thank you for showing me the bridge. I'm ready to continue the tour." Lexi said.
"All right, I think it's about time for lunch I'll take you to 10 forward." He said. The turbo-lift opened and so did Picard's ready room door. Commander Riker saw him pause, confusion registering when he saw the two young officers leave.
"Sir, Ensign Crusher was just carrying out your orders to give Cadet Shepard a tour of the ship." Riker said.
"I'll discuss with him later, his loose interpretation of my orders." Picard was about to sit down when Deanna stood straight up.
"Sir, I must speak with you in private, it's urgent."
"Yes of course counselor, in my ready room."
When they were behind closed doors Deanna added, "You may want Cmdr. Data to join us."
Picard quickly tapped his Comm badge. "Picard to Commander Data."
"Data here."
"Commander, please come to my ready room."
"I am on my way."
Ready room
"Thank you for joining us Data. Counselor what is this about?" Picard asked.
"Captain, it's about the new Cadet Alexis Shepard. I met her on the bridge a few moments ago." Deanna said.
"Yes, I saw her leave with Ensign Crusher. She should not have been on the bridge, I'll have a talk with Wesley about it."
"It's not only that Captain…Cadet Shepherd is not what she appears to be."
"What are you saying counselor?"
"When I came onto the bridge, I felt a sense of leisure and passive confidence when normally the atmosphere is a calm concentration. Something felt wrong; out of place. When I met Cadet Shepard I found that she was the source of the artificial mood, sir." Dianna said.
"Artificial mood? Do you mean to say she was causing people on the bridge to feel differently than normal?" Picard asked, "Controlling them?"
"Yes. It was a deliberate manipulation of each person's emotional state. When she introduced herself to me I could feel her trying to project a specific disposition. It didn't work on me, I sensed it right away and she noticed. In fact she became fearful and quickly left."
Picard sat back in his chair, seriously thinking. "Mr Data?"
"It would explain why her presence on the bridge was met with no reprimand and why Ensign Crusher overstepped your orders." Data said.
Picard nodded. "Counselor, have you ever come across a person with such abilities before?"
"Yes. Years ago on Betazed. My mother called them the Suborn."
"Is there anything on Star fleet records about the Suborn, Mr. Data?"
"Accessing... "Data switched his head minutely. "The Suborn, also known as the Swayers, are an endangered humanoid species that hail from the planets Subornia in the alpha quadrant. When their Planet failed to be hospitable nearly one century ago, most evacuated the planet settling as immigrants on other worlds. Adaptation has been difficult and their lifespan is significantly dropping. They have served as ambassadors and peace negotiators in the past. Suborns have similarities to betazoid empaths brain physiology in that they have a 5th lobe capable of a "sixth sense". They can manipulate the state of mind of those around them."
"How?" Picard asked
"It is a physical action much the way reaching out a hand to stroke something is. The Limbic system or equivalent on any organic is manipulated."
"Is it dangerous?" Picard asked. Deanna Troi answered.
"It can be, as you can well imagine. To keep it simple, suppose you want to do better on a test than another student, you trigger their emotions filling them with self-doubt and fear and suddenly you're on top."
Data interrupted. "However, providing their role as Interstellar diplomats, the Swayer can be of great assistance in a battle situation."
"Unless she can't control it. In that scenario her own real feelings would leak out." Deanna said. "Then feelings of panic and fear can spread to all those in proximity."
"I read her file thoroughly," Picard said, "there was nothing about being a Suborn or anything else. Could there be another explanation?"
"Doubtful Captain," Deanna said, "I have never met another being with these capabilities, besides the Suborn and I am 100% positive it was a physiological manipulation."
Picard sat deep in thought then he tapped his badge
"Commander Riker prepare a staff meeting in the debriefing room in an hour."
"Aye captain."
"Data send all information on the Saborn to everyone in that room."
One hour later
Picard summoned all necessary officers: Commander Riker, Lieutenant Commander Data, Doctor Pulaski , Lieutenant Worf and Counselor Troi. A moment later security escorted in Cadet Shepard. Immediately Captain Picard felt the projection counselor Troi and Data explained. Uncertainty and fear fogged his mind, but very specific fear something Picard had not felt in years…like a child caught breaking curfew and was terribly afraid of punishment.
Everyone except data seem to be affected, Worf looked the most uncomfortable.
"You summoned me Captain?" Lexi said.
"Please be seated Cadet, and please, try to relax." Lexi sat across from Riker. "Well, I trust you know why you've been summoned here."
"I think so sir."
"It's bad enough that you trick your way onto the bridge, which even a Cadet knows is restricted, but leaving such an important detail out of your record is a gross oversight."
"Please, Captain, I can explain."
"Start with what exactly is happening."
"It is a fact that my paternal grandmother is a Suborn. We are a race of swayers. My father described it as, sharing emotions…like feeling the warmth of the sun. However while humans and suborns are compatible, it's not easy to pass on their gifts."
Picard turned to Pulaski. "Doctor can you elaborate?"
"She's right. The genes are not as easily passed on as other traits, especially when it is not a direct descendant of a full-blood Suborn."
"My father possessed limited ability" Lexi continued. "If you haven't shown any swayer gift by puberty it is unlikely you ever will. When it started for me, about a year ago I didn't comprehend what was happening. Even now, I can't understand it, but I am trying to control it."
Picard scowled. "All I've seen so far, is you using it to break the rules."
"One, one rule sir." Lexi corrected.
"That we know of." Riker interjected. "It could explain how you've managed to succeed so far." Lexi stood up.
"How dare you make such ignorant assumptions, based on so little fact. You are too quick to judge for a commander!"
"Cadet, sit down!" Picard said. She did, still locking eyes with Riker.
"Star fleet won't tolerate xenophobic gossip from you Commander." Lexi said. Riker's eyes widened as did everyone else except for Troi, although she could understand why. Everyone could feel the humiliation and indignant anger emanating from the Cadet. It was like being thrust into a snow storm; there was noting you could do to stop the piercing cold. Lexi felt attacked and cornered, scared. No one enjoyed seeing her in such a state.
"Cadet please wait outside." Picard commanded.
When she left Riker was the first to speak. "Xenophobic?"
Of course he wasn't, everyone knew that, but he felt guilty for being the cause of Cadet Shepherds pain and the need to explain himself was strong. For a second he felt what it must be like to be an empath like Troi... He did not like it. Dianna spoke next.
"Captain, during her explanation and outburst, I sensed no deception from her. I believe her when she says her Swayer ability only recently manifested itself. And as you could feel, she needs help in learning how to control it."
"How do you know it wasn't another trick?" Worf asked.
"Because her gift doesn't work on me. Probably because I feel true, raw emotions. I am a strong Empath, yet even a weak Empath can quickly tell the difference between an artificial means and the real thing."
"Sir," Data spoke up, "I believe Cadet Shepard would be a great asset on the Enterprise. Her skills are worth honing since they are rare. There are no other Swayers on any records of service. She may be the only one Star fleet ever sees. She is unique, like me."
Picard smiled. "Always thinking like a Star fleet officer. Can she learn to control this swayer gift doctor?"
"I don't see why not. Physically Cadet Shepard is in perfect health and the mind manipulation seems to have no negative physical effects on her or anyone else." Dr. Pulaski answered.
"Counselor what do you think?" Picard asked.
"I believe that with proper training she can learn to use her skills in a similar way I have."
"Can you help her with that?"
"Absolutely sir."
Picard tapped his badge again. "Can you please escort Cadet Shepard back in."
Security guards led her back in. She was calmer but with still a nervous edge.
"Cadet." Picard started." First of all, here on the Enterprise, all of us are rooting for your success." Lexi glanced at Riker unsure.
"Second, after I've contacted Star fleet command, I am ordering you to have sessions with counselor Troi, who is greatly qualified to help you hone your new skill. And Third, do not use your gift for petty personal gain."
"Yes sir."
"I consider you a welcome addition to my crew Cadet Shepherd. Work hard." Cadet Shepard jumped with elation and everyone felt the mood in the room change.
"I will work hard, thank you very much Captain."