A House Divided
Chapter Three
*********
Admiral Wolf stalked onto the bridge of the Enterprise. It had been 20 hours since their last contact with the Alliance, and they expected to hear from them soon. Hours more work had only narrowed the field of possible rebel barracks to two, and they were currently configuring personnel to launch simultaneous attacks on all targets. If nothing else, the hostage situation would give Starfleet the political cover they needed to crush the rebel Alliance. Too many officers would die as a result, but the rebellion would be finished, and New Genesis secured.
She nodded to Picard. "I'm going to keep them talking. Can your officers get a lock on the signal?"
Data turned from the conn. "During their last communication, the rebels jammed our sensors with redundant feedback, and masked their location by simultaneously sending from multiple points. We have recalibrated the sensors to filter the feedback. Once the communication is finished, we will cross-reference the points of origin with our suspected target areas and see if we can further narrow our targets."
"Very well." Wolf moved toward the center of the bridge. Picard rose and extended an arm toward his seat. Wolf instead took the empty seat next to Picard, typically occupied by Troi or Crusher. "Thank you Captain. But this is your ship." She faced the viewscreen, and turned her attention toward the padd she was holding, indicating the conversation was over.
Picard turned his attention to his own padd, which held the schematics for the ground attack on the possible rebel targets. They would be ready to move in a few hours. He hoped it would be in time to save both physicians.
His hopes were dashed as Peel spoke from the aft of the bridge. "Incoming signal, sirs. It's from the rebels."
Picard looked at Wolf, who responded. "Put them on, Lieutenant." She stood and walked to the front of the bridge.
The viewer blinked and Siohban appeared with Crusher and Chopra behind him, held by armed guards. "Admiral Wolf. I regret to inform you that your officers have not been persuaded to abandon their foolish and stubborn ways. I hope you have good news for me," he turned and gestured toward the prisoners, "and for them."
Wolf paused, almost imperceptibly. Picard could sense her unease. The last standoff had not gone well - no one wanted a repeat. "I've taken the matter back to the Federation, and they are considering your demands. We have no interest in any further bloodshed on New Genesis."
"I'm sorry you misunderstood our last conversation, Admiral. I tried to make it clear to you that we would be expecting a response today, not a delay." Siohban turned and gestured to a guard, who brought forward Chopra. In an eerie replay of yesterday's horror, he took the man's arm and trained his phaser at his temple.
"Siohban." The Admiral's voice was deadly serious. "We are not delaying. As you know, these things take time. Starfleet and the Federation are considering your demands. I ask for another day."
Siohban looked back in disgust. "While you deliberate, my people die. I have no time for your games."
Wolf did not waver, but persisted. "I assure you that the Federation does not play games with our officer's lives." Her posture and voice softened. "Siohban, the Alliance and the Federation are on the same side in this conflict. You seek security for your planet, and we are willing to offer that. Let's meet to discuss this."
"We are done discussing, Starfleet. Will you allow these people to help us or not?" Siohban jostled Chopra and adjusted the phaser.
Wolf squared her shoulders and clasped her arms behind her. "I'm sorry, Siohban. But I am not authorized to give that order at this time."
"Very well." Siohban once again nodded toward Wolf.
"Wait!" Crusher yelled out, and struggled against her captor. "Siohban, wait."
The rebel leader turned toward her. He glanced off to the side. "Cut audio." he turned back to Crusher as the occupants of the bridge on the Enterprise watched expectantly.
"Siohban, tell them about the Maquis." Beverly's tone was insistent.
"Absolutely not Doctor. And if you say anything about it, you both die." Siohban turned back forward. "Activate audio." He addressed Wolf again. "I was hoping that your doctor had a change of heart. I've grown fond of her. However, she has not. And we are back at square one." He prepared to fire on Chopra.
"Siohban." Crusher broke in again. Yesterday, she had believed he was bluffing when he held Thompson. Now that she knew he was serious, she was compelled to take action. She knew it was simply a matter of time before the Enterprise launched an offensive to free them. She figured she might at least give Chopra a chance of survival. "Wait." Her eyes never left Picard's as she spoke. "Let Chopra go for now. I've forced him to comply with the Starfleet orders. He may change his mind if I'm not here." Crusher's implication was clear.
Picard's heart stopped. His face remained impassive, but he was now standing two paces behind Wolf with no idea how he'd gotten there from his chair. His eyes were locked with Beverly's and their gaze had not wavered. 'Beverly, no.' They were almost ready to launch an attack. They would be ready in a few hours. They just needed time. He reeled internally as he realized those were probably Crusher's thoughts exactly, and she was trying to buy Chopra that time. He would have done the same.
Siohban remained silent, and looked first to Chopra then Crusher. He motioned for the guard to bring Crusher forward. She exchanged places with Chopra, and the Enterprise bridge watched as Siohban brought the phaser to her head. Picard silently pleaded with Beverly. Each stared at the other. Neither needed to speak. This exact moment and dialog had been played out years ago on KesPryt.
He smiled now at the memory. No one but Crusher noticed the change in his eyes and the slight lift at the corners of his lips. She knew he could hear her with him then and now. But no one on the Enterprise missed the subtle shift in Crusher's demeanor in reaction. Her shoulders and body relaxed, and the panic left her eyes, replaced by a sad tranquility.
Picard took this last moment to gaze unabashedly at the Doctor. She had her hair pulled back in a tight ponytail, something she only did during her most harried times. She hated it and told Jean-Luc that it made her face look angular and old. He'd disagreed and replied that he loved it because it better accentuated her patrician features. Crusher had swatted his chest and called him an old letch. He could not believe that their brief time together last night would be their last.
Chopra finally spoke. "No, Doctor." He struggled to make his point. "Thank you. But we both know that's not true. I will not change my mind."
"I agree." Siohban let Crusher go and tightened his grip on Chopra. He put the phaser back to his temple. "Make your peace, son." He fired and Chopra fell.
Picard felt his heart slowly begin to beat again. He realized he had been holding his breath, and his lungs were clamoring for air. It was a high price to pay, but Crusher was still alive. He took a deep breath in. He and Beverly had not broken eye contact for a second, and he saw her anguish as the young man slumped to the floor. While her eyes were shinning, she remained silent.
Wolf's tone was glacial. "That makes two Starfleet officers you have killed in cold blood, Siohban. You will be apprehended, and you will answer for your crimes."
"That may be Admiral, but not today." The roughish leader only smiled. "We were generous in our negotiations with you, and you responded with disrespect. You now have one hour to comply." He motioned for Crusher to be brought forward. "I know this one won't go against orders. So I suggest you issue new ones."
The signal terminated, and Wolf turned to Data, her own face almost as pale as the android's. "Tell me you've got them, Data."
If it were possible for him to be angry, Data would be furious. They had been unable to lock on to the signal. The rebels had changed their jamming tactics, and the sensors had been unable to make the adjustments. He shook his head in response.
"Damnit." Wolf strode toward the back of the bridge, then turned and began pacing. "Peel. What's our timeline on the ground incursion?"
"We're finishing mapping the caverns. We should be done within the hour." Emma Peel had only known the Enterprise officers for a matter of months, but they were some of the finest she'd served with. She was outraged at the situation, and spoiling for a fight.
"We're moving in 30 minutes. Have the teams ready." Wolf's tone and gaze were piercing.
Peel brought herself to attention. "Aye sir."
*********
Beverly sat silently while the guards dragged out Chopra's body. Her head was down and her shoulders slumped. Siohban stood in front of her. "And what of your Starfleet now, Doctor?" Crusher looked up, her eyes blazing. "Do what you will, Siohban. But I won't turn my back on the Federation, and neither will any officer worthy of the uniform. We know what we signed up for. And both of the officers you slaughtered have more honor than you ever will." Crusher rose and turned her back to the man. "You make me sick, Siohban. Get out of my sight."
One of the guards came forward, riffle drawn. Siohban smiled and waved him off. "You and I are not so different as you would like to believe, Doctor. It pains me that we did not meet at another time."
Crusher did not move or respond. She would not waste her remaining time talking to this man. Siohban moved out of the cell, and Crusher heard the force field activate. She turned again, tears shining in her eyes, which she was not about to let her captors see. Sighing, she sat down.
"Come on, Jean-Luc, get me out of here." She spoke quietly. During their wait, she and Chopra had explored every inch of the cavern. It was solid rock, and there were no materials to work with. Her communicator was already gone, and they'd taken Chopra's and Thompson's as soon as they'd arrived. The bunks were made of wood, and there was just nothing else in there. No way out of this box. Beverly fingered her pips. Well, it couldn't hurt. She took them each off and threw them against the force field. Popping, they bounced off harmlessly.
The guard turned and leered. "That the best you got?"
"Guess so." Beverly smirked as she walked over and picked them up. They clung together in a clump. 'All right Data. Work your magic.'
Crusher lay back, indulging in some self-pity. She really wasn't ready to die. She guessed there weren't many people who were. Still, she was glad she and Jean-Luc had spoken their feeling months ago. After many long conversations with herself and with Deanna, she'd realized her fears were paper tigers. Afraid of losing Jean-Luc to death, or worse, divorce, she'd held back from him. Finally, she understood that it would have been far worse to part for any reason without ever revealing the true nature of their feelings. And so they'd made their confessions, and been rewarded.
Beverly thought of Wesley, and hoped that he was safe and fulfilled, wherever he was. Finally, she thought of Jack, and wondered what he might be up to. 'Maybe I'll find out sooner than I thought.' Crusher laughed to herself. Jack would love hearing about Jean-Luc. She could almost hear him laughing now. 'I'm only dead twenty years before the man makes his play. Has he no respect for the dead?' Crusher smiled as she lay on the bunk. She wondered where they were on the countdown. She guessed she had maybe a half hour more.
*********
"Tell me your teams are ready, Peel." Wolf and Picard emerged from his ready room. They had twenty minutes to go on the clock. It was now or never.
"Aye sir. We're ready." Peel stood tall.
"Very well." Picard strode to the center of the bridge. He nodded to Riker. "Get your teams into position and launch the offensive. Keep your channels open." He grasped Will's hand. "Good luck, Will."
Riker smiled. "We'll bring her home, sir." He met Picard's eyes and held his gaze for a moment. Breaking contact with Picard, he walked toward the aft lift. "Peel, Data, you're with me." He nodded at the officers, who acknowledged and joined him.
'Godspeed, Will.' Picard thought as he tugged his uniform and sat rigidly in his chair. Wolf walked back to the aft command center and took up Peel's position. Picard hated to do it, but he grudgingly admitted he had a certain respect for the woman.
Moments later the comm. crackled to life and Riker's voice came on the line. His team was assigned to location alpha, which had been given the highest probability of housing the rebel camp. "We're in position sir. We move on your signal."
Picard turned to Wolf, who nodded. "Make it so, Number One."
He heard movement. "You heard him. Roll out." Riker's voice was charged.
*********
From above, Crusher heard an explosion. She felt a rumble through the bunk, and stood. The cavern sprung to life outside, and she could hear shouting and movement. 'Please tell me the cavalry has arrived.' The guard outside the cell glanced back at her before running off down the corridor. Crusher took her pips from her pocket. They still clung together, and she set them on the bunk. Then, she walked over to the force field and moved off to the side, her back against the wall. She began reviewing everything she'd ever learned about hand-to-hand combat from Worf.
*********
Riker, Data, and Peel moved through the caverns as though possessed. There was only one entrance to the base, and they were meeting stiff resistance. Their officers were well trained though, and they were making progress. Riker hoped it wasn't going to be too late by the time they learned Crusher's location. Planting signal boosters on the walls as they passed, they hoped to get enough laid down so that the Enterprise sensors could pick up inside the caverns and give them a tactical advantage.
Peel heard Picard's voice break through the din. "We've almost got full sensor power at location alpha. Location beta teams are moving to reconvene at your position." Peel raised her voice over the fighting as Riker fired on advancing rebels. "Acknowledged, sir." She ducked back behind an outcropping and fired, taking out two fighters. Data was at the rear, studying a tricorder. He caught Peel's eye and she fell back to join him.
"There are several caverns off of the main room here. All contain life signs. There is one here," he pointed to a location on his screen, "with one life sign and a faint magnetic signal. I believe it may be Doctor Crusher." Peel met his eyes and nodded. Data continued. "There are two other life signs heading toward her position." Peel nodded again as she and Data turned back to the fight, firing at anything moving.
*********
Peel and Data's conversation was barely audible over the ruckus, and Picard turned up to Wolf, who was bent over the aft control station. She felt his gaze and looked over the rail at him, nodding. "I've got the readings as well. We've got significantly improved sensor readings down there. I'm working on getting a signal lock on our people." Picard stood and walked to forward opps. "I'll take over from here, Lieutenant."
The young woman looked up and nodded. She pushed the panel aside and quickly rose. Picard slid into place and his hands began flying over the controls. "Get on to work on those sensors, Admiral. I'll take care of the transporters."
Wolf looked up and nodded. "Acknowledged." She knew Picard would fight like a dog to get his people out. Nervously she looked down at the two blips making their way toward what they believed to be Crusher's location. She redoubled her efforts on the sensor array.
*********
Crusher stood against the wall next to the door of her cell, all senses on full-tilt. No one had contacted her since the disturbance began, and she could only hope it was Starfleet personnel out there. Her guard was long gone, but she had no way of turning off the force field generator from inside the cell. 'Could it have killed them to abduct Data along with me?' Her attention piqued as she heard someone moving toward her location. Likely two or more someones. 'Here we go.' She took a few deep breaths. Suddenly, the force field cut out.
She tripped the first person to run through, a woman who went sprawling across the floor. Beverly locked her hands and brought her elbows together into the abdomen of the second rebel. As he staggered, she caught him with an uppercut to the jaw. He slumped against the wall and she finished him with a high kick to the chest.
The other woman was up now, and Crusher quickly grabbed the man's gun. "Hold it right there, Starfleet." Crusher rose slowly. She already had the riffle in her hands, and as she stood she trained it on the woman.
Beverly arched her brow. "I'd say we're at an impasse."
The woman eyed her nervously, slowly moving toward Crusher. Beverly tightened her grip on the gun. "Stay right there."
The woman snarled at her. "Or what, you'll shoot? I don't believe it, Starfleet."
The fallen man beside Beverly groaned, and Crusher knew the situation would get out of hand when he awoke. She backed up to try and put him in between her and the woman.
"Stop right there Doctor, or I will shoot." The woman stopped moving forward and tightened her lock on Crusher. The man coughed, and rolled onto his knees, attempting to stand. Crusher's eyes darted between the two as her advantage in the situation dwindled.
*********
"We are closing in on her position sir, but we are now reading three life signs in the room." Data gave a progress report while he, Riker, and Peel continued to advance. Peel picked off two more rebels and began to pull off from the group, toward the corridor. Riker and Data attempted to move toward her position, but were cut off by a heavy volley of fire. They took cover while Emma advanced her position. Momentarily she was out of sight and headed down the corridor.
She advanced carefully, her back to the wall. She glanced behind every few steps, zigzagging across the narrow passageway. As she approached the room, she could hear muffled voices. Rounding the final curve, she saw a large man holding Crusher, his arm around her neck. Apparently he was attempting to force her to drop what Peel presumed was a weapon. That accounted for two people, but Peel knew there was another in the room. The question was whether the person was still a threat.
Emma looked behind her and retreated a few steps. Lowering her voice, she attempted to contact Data and Riker. "Peel to squadron one. What is your position?"
Riker responded. "We're trying to get to you, but right now we're pinned down. Give us a minute."
"Hurry up. I don't know if Crusher's got a minute. Maintain radio silence on my end." Peel glanced back around the outcropping to see that Crusher was still struggling.
"Acknowledged. Riker out." The line cut off to the sound of heavy phaser fire, as Peel tapped her shoulder.
Emma moved back into position. Crusher and the man had moved farther out into the corridor. Peel could now see the other guard, a woman armed with a riffle. 'Just a little farther out Beverly, and I'll have a shot at that woman.' Emma willed the older woman to keep moving out, but it was clearly a struggle Beverly was losing.
*********
Crusher was quickly running out of energy. The man had grabbed her around the neck, and she wasn't getting enough oxygen. She kept hold of the gun, and kept it trained on the woman, but Beverly was fading fast.
At the end of her rope, Crusher was about to give up. Seconds before she did, a flash came from behind her and hit the rebel with the gun. Taking advantage of the man's shock, Beverly brought her heel down hard on his foot and slammed her elbow into his abdomen. He reeled back and she turned and fired on him. She still had not seen where the phaser fire had come from, and she wasn't taking any chances. In a split second she turned from firing on the man, and raised her gun toward whoever it had been that shot the other rebel.
"Whoa there, Doctor. We come in peace." Emma Peel smiled and raised her hands.
"Emma, I have never been happier to see anyone in my whole life." Crusher practically ran toward the woman and gave her a mighty hug. Peel reciprocated awkwardly. She was glad to see Crusher as well, but was really very uncomfortable with how openly affectionate Crusher and Troi both were. But she had to admit it was growing on her.
"That's flattering Doctor, but we've got to get you out of here." Peel stepped back and regarded the physician.
Beverly peered over the other woman's shoulder and took in the sea of gold and red Starfleet uniforms engaged with the remaining rebels. She wondered what had become of Siohban. She looked back at Peel. "I'm guessing Riker and Data are down here."
"They are sir. I left them behind when I got in position to find you." Peel turned toward the fight. She grabbed a sensor booster from her belt and placed it on the wall. "Now let's get you home."
Crusher grabbed her shoulder. "Hold on. There must be injured down here. They need to get out of here more than I do." Crusher moved to walk back toward the battle.
Now Peel grabbed her shoulder. "Not so fast, Doctor. We came down here to get you out, and I'm a stickler for orders. You're unarmed and may be injured." Crusher opened her mouth to speak, and a stray phaser beam whizzed by, exploding into the rock. Emma pulled her down and looked at the burned-out wall pointedly. "And if I don't get you out of here now, Captain Picard will have me thrown bodily from the ship. If you want to take him on once you get back, that's your business." She gave Beverly a 'your funeral' shrug and met her eyes. Her expression was totally serious. Seeing that Crusher was mollified, she tapped her chest.
"Lieutenant Peel to Captain Picard. Have you got a signal lock on my location?"
"I've got two signals at your location, Peel." Picard's voice was stern. Crusher smiled, picturing his expression.
"Well, lock on to us Captain. I've got someone here who's pretty anxious to get home." Peel winked at Crusher. It was the closest thing to affection she could muster.
Picard broke into a tight grin on the Enterprise bridge. He'd no sooner finished beaming the two signals to transporter room three than he had risen and was on his way to the lift. The young lieutenant took his place as soon as he was up. Wolf turned to Picard as he walked past. "Pass along my best, Captain. Let her know I'll be down to sickbay as soon as we're in the clear down there."
"I'm sure she'll be glad to hear it, Admiral." Picard knew that Crusher would probably still be cursing Starfleet right up to the minute Wolf walked through sickbay's doors, but he wasn't about to let on. As the lift doors closed, he smiled again.
*********
As Picard exited the lift, he saw Peel and Crusher leaving the transporter room. His heart lifted as he saw Beverly, and he quickened his pace. The parties met halfway down the corridor, and Picard came to an abrupt halt, his hands clasped behind his back.
"Doctor." He swallowed nervously and his adam's apple bobbed.
"Captain." Crusher smiled demurely and gave Picard the 'I know you're embarrassed right now and I think it's funny' tone. Deciding to go easy on him, she turned to Peel. "Emma, I know you want to get back down there. I think Jean-Luc can help me find my way to sickbay."
Peel caught on quickly and made her exit. "I'm glad you're back, Doctor."
Crusher took her hand and smiled. "Thank you, Lieutenant. Your timing is impeccable."
Picard and Crusher watched the petite brunette walk away. They turned to each other and stared intently. Tears began forming in Crusher's eyes and she threw her arms around Picard. "Jean-Luc."
He almost fainted in relief as he held her tightly. "It's good to have you home, Beverly."
They parted reluctantly and began walking back toward the lift, Crusher clutching the Captain's arm.
"Are you injured?" Picard looked her over as they entered the lift. She seemed unharmed.
Crusher shook her head. "No, just some bumps and bruises." They stood in awkward silence. "I was beginning to think you weren't coming for me." She leaned over and elbowed him in the side.
Picard chuckled half-heartedly. "Halt lift." He turned back to Crusher. "Beverly, I will always come for you." He took her hands in his. "But even I had begun to lose hope that we would be in time."
Crusher gently laid her hand on his jaw. "Now that is a confession I would not expect from you, Captain. I admit I was a little nervous at the end, but I had no such doubts. I will never lose faith in you Jean-Luc Picard - and I will not have you giving up on yourself."
They stood that way for several minutes, conversing silently and lost in each other's eyes. The lift chirruped quietly, indicating a call from another station. Picard turned, and grasped Beverly's hand at his side. She smiled, knowing it was the closest thing to public affection she would ever get while they were onboard. "Resume."
*********
Pulaski finished a final turn around Crusher with the tricorder. "Everything checks out, Beverly. We'll take care of those bruises, and I'm giving you a full vitamin supplement. If I didn't know better, I'd say you hadn't been eating well for weeks." She arched an eyebrow disapprovingly at the frail CMO, and brought a hypo to her neck.
Crusher held up two fingers. "I promise to do better, Katherine." She did her best to look innocent.
"Promises, promises." Pulaski patted her knee. "Just to make sure, you're off duty for two days, and you're going to eat and sleep the whole time. I don't want to see hide nor hair of you around here."
Crusher looked around pointedly. "I leave you my sickbay for a couple months and suddenly you're heady with power." The women laughed. "Just don't get too comfortable, Kate." Crusher winked at the older woman.
Pulaski laughed. "I wouldn't dream of it. Besides," she jerked a thumb at Picard. "I think you're the only one who can handle treating this man on a regular basis." The pair descended into fitful giggles.
Picard gazed at each of them nervously. Here was an alliance he had not been familiar with. It could prove to be most disadvantageous.
Pulaski's gaze went from Crusher to Picard. "I expect help enforcing those orders, Captain. She won't go down without a fight."
Now Picard looked at Crusher pointedly. "You have my assurance, Doctor Pulaski. She will follow your orders to the letter."
Crusher stood and crossed her arms. "Honestly, you two are giving me a complex. I'm planting myself in front of a replicator, and I'm not moving until I've totally drained the power in my unit."
Picard smiled. "That sounds like a promise you can keep. And you have permission to raid my replicator should yours fail."
Crusher smiled and uncrossed her arms. "How gallant. Now, how about getting my to my quarters. I have a date with a hot bath." She looked down at her blood-smattered apparel and touched her now brittle hair. "And I'll be seeing Mr. Mott first thing in the morning."
With that Pulaski dismissed them, and she and Picard made their way back to the lift. It was now quite late into the ship's night rotation.
They arrived and entered her quarters. She sank into the nearest chair. "I just want to sleep for the next three days."
Picard walked over and sat opposite her. "If that is what you want, then say the word and I will make it so."
Beverly's eyes were closed, and she smiled wanly. "You're my hero, Jean- Luc."
Picard smiled as her sarcasm rose above even her exhaustion. He loved her dearly, and was thrilled just to have her back onboard. He stood and took her hand. "Come."
She opened her eyes and met his gaze. It was warm and open, and she returned it. Suddenly, she started and her eyes cleared. "Jean-Luc!"
He came to her and held her shoulders, his eyes flashing with concern. "Beverly, what is it? What's wrong?"
She shook her head. "No, I'm OK." She smiled knowingly at Jean-Luc. "I can't believe I didn't tell you. When I we were down on the planet. Siohban told us that the Alliance is not aligned with the Cardassians." She paused. "They're working with the Maquis. They're feeding us false information to keep the Federation engaged here."
Picard's expression was one of surprise, and he exhaled through drawn lips. "That is extremely valuable information, Doctor."
"I know Jean-Luc. I'm sorry I didn't tell you earlier." Her eyes reflected the disappointment she felt for having failed to debrief the Captain on the intelligence.
Picard caught her look and pulled himself up to full height, pulling the aura of his own authority about him. "Doctor Crusher, you have nothing to apologize for. Your performance of duty during your captivity was exemplary, and it continues to be so now. We will make immediate use of the information you've provided. The Federation owes you a debt in this matter, and I'll hear no further recriminations." He gazed at her sternly, but not without a great deal of kindness.
Crusher smiled faintly, recognizing Picard's tactics. "Aye, sir. Thank you."
Again, they spent a moment in silent conversation.
Picard took her hand. Looking down, he spoke quietly. "I need to get back to the bridge." He was clearly disappointed, as was Crusher. He looked up into her eyes. "But I will check on you at my first opportunity."
Beverly moved toward him and placed a hand on his chest. "I'd like to say I'll keep the bath hot until you get back." She arched her brow suggestively, and Picard's heart thundered in his chest. Even in her current state she took his breath away. "But I suspect that by the time you return I'll have been asleep for hours." She now sported a seductive pout.
"Beverly, walking out of that door right now may be the hardest thing I ever do." Picard took her head in his hands, and kissed her forehead. "My love, I will return to you on Hermes' own wings."
Now it was the Doctor's turn to contain her own racing heart. He was perhaps the most romantic man she'd known, a fact that few other people would even suspect. She could not bear to wait much longer to complete her relationship with Jean-Luc. "All right. I'll see you tomorrow." She traced a finger down his jaw and leaned in to kiss him. Their contact was powerful, and she felt herself trembling.
Picard pulled away softly and held her hands firmly. "Until then."
Beverly sighed as he walked out.
*********
Chapter Three
*********
Admiral Wolf stalked onto the bridge of the Enterprise. It had been 20 hours since their last contact with the Alliance, and they expected to hear from them soon. Hours more work had only narrowed the field of possible rebel barracks to two, and they were currently configuring personnel to launch simultaneous attacks on all targets. If nothing else, the hostage situation would give Starfleet the political cover they needed to crush the rebel Alliance. Too many officers would die as a result, but the rebellion would be finished, and New Genesis secured.
She nodded to Picard. "I'm going to keep them talking. Can your officers get a lock on the signal?"
Data turned from the conn. "During their last communication, the rebels jammed our sensors with redundant feedback, and masked their location by simultaneously sending from multiple points. We have recalibrated the sensors to filter the feedback. Once the communication is finished, we will cross-reference the points of origin with our suspected target areas and see if we can further narrow our targets."
"Very well." Wolf moved toward the center of the bridge. Picard rose and extended an arm toward his seat. Wolf instead took the empty seat next to Picard, typically occupied by Troi or Crusher. "Thank you Captain. But this is your ship." She faced the viewscreen, and turned her attention toward the padd she was holding, indicating the conversation was over.
Picard turned his attention to his own padd, which held the schematics for the ground attack on the possible rebel targets. They would be ready to move in a few hours. He hoped it would be in time to save both physicians.
His hopes were dashed as Peel spoke from the aft of the bridge. "Incoming signal, sirs. It's from the rebels."
Picard looked at Wolf, who responded. "Put them on, Lieutenant." She stood and walked to the front of the bridge.
The viewer blinked and Siohban appeared with Crusher and Chopra behind him, held by armed guards. "Admiral Wolf. I regret to inform you that your officers have not been persuaded to abandon their foolish and stubborn ways. I hope you have good news for me," he turned and gestured toward the prisoners, "and for them."
Wolf paused, almost imperceptibly. Picard could sense her unease. The last standoff had not gone well - no one wanted a repeat. "I've taken the matter back to the Federation, and they are considering your demands. We have no interest in any further bloodshed on New Genesis."
"I'm sorry you misunderstood our last conversation, Admiral. I tried to make it clear to you that we would be expecting a response today, not a delay." Siohban turned and gestured to a guard, who brought forward Chopra. In an eerie replay of yesterday's horror, he took the man's arm and trained his phaser at his temple.
"Siohban." The Admiral's voice was deadly serious. "We are not delaying. As you know, these things take time. Starfleet and the Federation are considering your demands. I ask for another day."
Siohban looked back in disgust. "While you deliberate, my people die. I have no time for your games."
Wolf did not waver, but persisted. "I assure you that the Federation does not play games with our officer's lives." Her posture and voice softened. "Siohban, the Alliance and the Federation are on the same side in this conflict. You seek security for your planet, and we are willing to offer that. Let's meet to discuss this."
"We are done discussing, Starfleet. Will you allow these people to help us or not?" Siohban jostled Chopra and adjusted the phaser.
Wolf squared her shoulders and clasped her arms behind her. "I'm sorry, Siohban. But I am not authorized to give that order at this time."
"Very well." Siohban once again nodded toward Wolf.
"Wait!" Crusher yelled out, and struggled against her captor. "Siohban, wait."
The rebel leader turned toward her. He glanced off to the side. "Cut audio." he turned back to Crusher as the occupants of the bridge on the Enterprise watched expectantly.
"Siohban, tell them about the Maquis." Beverly's tone was insistent.
"Absolutely not Doctor. And if you say anything about it, you both die." Siohban turned back forward. "Activate audio." He addressed Wolf again. "I was hoping that your doctor had a change of heart. I've grown fond of her. However, she has not. And we are back at square one." He prepared to fire on Chopra.
"Siohban." Crusher broke in again. Yesterday, she had believed he was bluffing when he held Thompson. Now that she knew he was serious, she was compelled to take action. She knew it was simply a matter of time before the Enterprise launched an offensive to free them. She figured she might at least give Chopra a chance of survival. "Wait." Her eyes never left Picard's as she spoke. "Let Chopra go for now. I've forced him to comply with the Starfleet orders. He may change his mind if I'm not here." Crusher's implication was clear.
Picard's heart stopped. His face remained impassive, but he was now standing two paces behind Wolf with no idea how he'd gotten there from his chair. His eyes were locked with Beverly's and their gaze had not wavered. 'Beverly, no.' They were almost ready to launch an attack. They would be ready in a few hours. They just needed time. He reeled internally as he realized those were probably Crusher's thoughts exactly, and she was trying to buy Chopra that time. He would have done the same.
Siohban remained silent, and looked first to Chopra then Crusher. He motioned for the guard to bring Crusher forward. She exchanged places with Chopra, and the Enterprise bridge watched as Siohban brought the phaser to her head. Picard silently pleaded with Beverly. Each stared at the other. Neither needed to speak. This exact moment and dialog had been played out years ago on KesPryt.
He smiled now at the memory. No one but Crusher noticed the change in his eyes and the slight lift at the corners of his lips. She knew he could hear her with him then and now. But no one on the Enterprise missed the subtle shift in Crusher's demeanor in reaction. Her shoulders and body relaxed, and the panic left her eyes, replaced by a sad tranquility.
Picard took this last moment to gaze unabashedly at the Doctor. She had her hair pulled back in a tight ponytail, something she only did during her most harried times. She hated it and told Jean-Luc that it made her face look angular and old. He'd disagreed and replied that he loved it because it better accentuated her patrician features. Crusher had swatted his chest and called him an old letch. He could not believe that their brief time together last night would be their last.
Chopra finally spoke. "No, Doctor." He struggled to make his point. "Thank you. But we both know that's not true. I will not change my mind."
"I agree." Siohban let Crusher go and tightened his grip on Chopra. He put the phaser back to his temple. "Make your peace, son." He fired and Chopra fell.
Picard felt his heart slowly begin to beat again. He realized he had been holding his breath, and his lungs were clamoring for air. It was a high price to pay, but Crusher was still alive. He took a deep breath in. He and Beverly had not broken eye contact for a second, and he saw her anguish as the young man slumped to the floor. While her eyes were shinning, she remained silent.
Wolf's tone was glacial. "That makes two Starfleet officers you have killed in cold blood, Siohban. You will be apprehended, and you will answer for your crimes."
"That may be Admiral, but not today." The roughish leader only smiled. "We were generous in our negotiations with you, and you responded with disrespect. You now have one hour to comply." He motioned for Crusher to be brought forward. "I know this one won't go against orders. So I suggest you issue new ones."
The signal terminated, and Wolf turned to Data, her own face almost as pale as the android's. "Tell me you've got them, Data."
If it were possible for him to be angry, Data would be furious. They had been unable to lock on to the signal. The rebels had changed their jamming tactics, and the sensors had been unable to make the adjustments. He shook his head in response.
"Damnit." Wolf strode toward the back of the bridge, then turned and began pacing. "Peel. What's our timeline on the ground incursion?"
"We're finishing mapping the caverns. We should be done within the hour." Emma Peel had only known the Enterprise officers for a matter of months, but they were some of the finest she'd served with. She was outraged at the situation, and spoiling for a fight.
"We're moving in 30 minutes. Have the teams ready." Wolf's tone and gaze were piercing.
Peel brought herself to attention. "Aye sir."
*********
Beverly sat silently while the guards dragged out Chopra's body. Her head was down and her shoulders slumped. Siohban stood in front of her. "And what of your Starfleet now, Doctor?" Crusher looked up, her eyes blazing. "Do what you will, Siohban. But I won't turn my back on the Federation, and neither will any officer worthy of the uniform. We know what we signed up for. And both of the officers you slaughtered have more honor than you ever will." Crusher rose and turned her back to the man. "You make me sick, Siohban. Get out of my sight."
One of the guards came forward, riffle drawn. Siohban smiled and waved him off. "You and I are not so different as you would like to believe, Doctor. It pains me that we did not meet at another time."
Crusher did not move or respond. She would not waste her remaining time talking to this man. Siohban moved out of the cell, and Crusher heard the force field activate. She turned again, tears shining in her eyes, which she was not about to let her captors see. Sighing, she sat down.
"Come on, Jean-Luc, get me out of here." She spoke quietly. During their wait, she and Chopra had explored every inch of the cavern. It was solid rock, and there were no materials to work with. Her communicator was already gone, and they'd taken Chopra's and Thompson's as soon as they'd arrived. The bunks were made of wood, and there was just nothing else in there. No way out of this box. Beverly fingered her pips. Well, it couldn't hurt. She took them each off and threw them against the force field. Popping, they bounced off harmlessly.
The guard turned and leered. "That the best you got?"
"Guess so." Beverly smirked as she walked over and picked them up. They clung together in a clump. 'All right Data. Work your magic.'
Crusher lay back, indulging in some self-pity. She really wasn't ready to die. She guessed there weren't many people who were. Still, she was glad she and Jean-Luc had spoken their feeling months ago. After many long conversations with herself and with Deanna, she'd realized her fears were paper tigers. Afraid of losing Jean-Luc to death, or worse, divorce, she'd held back from him. Finally, she understood that it would have been far worse to part for any reason without ever revealing the true nature of their feelings. And so they'd made their confessions, and been rewarded.
Beverly thought of Wesley, and hoped that he was safe and fulfilled, wherever he was. Finally, she thought of Jack, and wondered what he might be up to. 'Maybe I'll find out sooner than I thought.' Crusher laughed to herself. Jack would love hearing about Jean-Luc. She could almost hear him laughing now. 'I'm only dead twenty years before the man makes his play. Has he no respect for the dead?' Crusher smiled as she lay on the bunk. She wondered where they were on the countdown. She guessed she had maybe a half hour more.
*********
"Tell me your teams are ready, Peel." Wolf and Picard emerged from his ready room. They had twenty minutes to go on the clock. It was now or never.
"Aye sir. We're ready." Peel stood tall.
"Very well." Picard strode to the center of the bridge. He nodded to Riker. "Get your teams into position and launch the offensive. Keep your channels open." He grasped Will's hand. "Good luck, Will."
Riker smiled. "We'll bring her home, sir." He met Picard's eyes and held his gaze for a moment. Breaking contact with Picard, he walked toward the aft lift. "Peel, Data, you're with me." He nodded at the officers, who acknowledged and joined him.
'Godspeed, Will.' Picard thought as he tugged his uniform and sat rigidly in his chair. Wolf walked back to the aft command center and took up Peel's position. Picard hated to do it, but he grudgingly admitted he had a certain respect for the woman.
Moments later the comm. crackled to life and Riker's voice came on the line. His team was assigned to location alpha, which had been given the highest probability of housing the rebel camp. "We're in position sir. We move on your signal."
Picard turned to Wolf, who nodded. "Make it so, Number One."
He heard movement. "You heard him. Roll out." Riker's voice was charged.
*********
From above, Crusher heard an explosion. She felt a rumble through the bunk, and stood. The cavern sprung to life outside, and she could hear shouting and movement. 'Please tell me the cavalry has arrived.' The guard outside the cell glanced back at her before running off down the corridor. Crusher took her pips from her pocket. They still clung together, and she set them on the bunk. Then, she walked over to the force field and moved off to the side, her back against the wall. She began reviewing everything she'd ever learned about hand-to-hand combat from Worf.
*********
Riker, Data, and Peel moved through the caverns as though possessed. There was only one entrance to the base, and they were meeting stiff resistance. Their officers were well trained though, and they were making progress. Riker hoped it wasn't going to be too late by the time they learned Crusher's location. Planting signal boosters on the walls as they passed, they hoped to get enough laid down so that the Enterprise sensors could pick up inside the caverns and give them a tactical advantage.
Peel heard Picard's voice break through the din. "We've almost got full sensor power at location alpha. Location beta teams are moving to reconvene at your position." Peel raised her voice over the fighting as Riker fired on advancing rebels. "Acknowledged, sir." She ducked back behind an outcropping and fired, taking out two fighters. Data was at the rear, studying a tricorder. He caught Peel's eye and she fell back to join him.
"There are several caverns off of the main room here. All contain life signs. There is one here," he pointed to a location on his screen, "with one life sign and a faint magnetic signal. I believe it may be Doctor Crusher." Peel met his eyes and nodded. Data continued. "There are two other life signs heading toward her position." Peel nodded again as she and Data turned back to the fight, firing at anything moving.
*********
Peel and Data's conversation was barely audible over the ruckus, and Picard turned up to Wolf, who was bent over the aft control station. She felt his gaze and looked over the rail at him, nodding. "I've got the readings as well. We've got significantly improved sensor readings down there. I'm working on getting a signal lock on our people." Picard stood and walked to forward opps. "I'll take over from here, Lieutenant."
The young woman looked up and nodded. She pushed the panel aside and quickly rose. Picard slid into place and his hands began flying over the controls. "Get on to work on those sensors, Admiral. I'll take care of the transporters."
Wolf looked up and nodded. "Acknowledged." She knew Picard would fight like a dog to get his people out. Nervously she looked down at the two blips making their way toward what they believed to be Crusher's location. She redoubled her efforts on the sensor array.
*********
Crusher stood against the wall next to the door of her cell, all senses on full-tilt. No one had contacted her since the disturbance began, and she could only hope it was Starfleet personnel out there. Her guard was long gone, but she had no way of turning off the force field generator from inside the cell. 'Could it have killed them to abduct Data along with me?' Her attention piqued as she heard someone moving toward her location. Likely two or more someones. 'Here we go.' She took a few deep breaths. Suddenly, the force field cut out.
She tripped the first person to run through, a woman who went sprawling across the floor. Beverly locked her hands and brought her elbows together into the abdomen of the second rebel. As he staggered, she caught him with an uppercut to the jaw. He slumped against the wall and she finished him with a high kick to the chest.
The other woman was up now, and Crusher quickly grabbed the man's gun. "Hold it right there, Starfleet." Crusher rose slowly. She already had the riffle in her hands, and as she stood she trained it on the woman.
Beverly arched her brow. "I'd say we're at an impasse."
The woman eyed her nervously, slowly moving toward Crusher. Beverly tightened her grip on the gun. "Stay right there."
The woman snarled at her. "Or what, you'll shoot? I don't believe it, Starfleet."
The fallen man beside Beverly groaned, and Crusher knew the situation would get out of hand when he awoke. She backed up to try and put him in between her and the woman.
"Stop right there Doctor, or I will shoot." The woman stopped moving forward and tightened her lock on Crusher. The man coughed, and rolled onto his knees, attempting to stand. Crusher's eyes darted between the two as her advantage in the situation dwindled.
*********
"We are closing in on her position sir, but we are now reading three life signs in the room." Data gave a progress report while he, Riker, and Peel continued to advance. Peel picked off two more rebels and began to pull off from the group, toward the corridor. Riker and Data attempted to move toward her position, but were cut off by a heavy volley of fire. They took cover while Emma advanced her position. Momentarily she was out of sight and headed down the corridor.
She advanced carefully, her back to the wall. She glanced behind every few steps, zigzagging across the narrow passageway. As she approached the room, she could hear muffled voices. Rounding the final curve, she saw a large man holding Crusher, his arm around her neck. Apparently he was attempting to force her to drop what Peel presumed was a weapon. That accounted for two people, but Peel knew there was another in the room. The question was whether the person was still a threat.
Emma looked behind her and retreated a few steps. Lowering her voice, she attempted to contact Data and Riker. "Peel to squadron one. What is your position?"
Riker responded. "We're trying to get to you, but right now we're pinned down. Give us a minute."
"Hurry up. I don't know if Crusher's got a minute. Maintain radio silence on my end." Peel glanced back around the outcropping to see that Crusher was still struggling.
"Acknowledged. Riker out." The line cut off to the sound of heavy phaser fire, as Peel tapped her shoulder.
Emma moved back into position. Crusher and the man had moved farther out into the corridor. Peel could now see the other guard, a woman armed with a riffle. 'Just a little farther out Beverly, and I'll have a shot at that woman.' Emma willed the older woman to keep moving out, but it was clearly a struggle Beverly was losing.
*********
Crusher was quickly running out of energy. The man had grabbed her around the neck, and she wasn't getting enough oxygen. She kept hold of the gun, and kept it trained on the woman, but Beverly was fading fast.
At the end of her rope, Crusher was about to give up. Seconds before she did, a flash came from behind her and hit the rebel with the gun. Taking advantage of the man's shock, Beverly brought her heel down hard on his foot and slammed her elbow into his abdomen. He reeled back and she turned and fired on him. She still had not seen where the phaser fire had come from, and she wasn't taking any chances. In a split second she turned from firing on the man, and raised her gun toward whoever it had been that shot the other rebel.
"Whoa there, Doctor. We come in peace." Emma Peel smiled and raised her hands.
"Emma, I have never been happier to see anyone in my whole life." Crusher practically ran toward the woman and gave her a mighty hug. Peel reciprocated awkwardly. She was glad to see Crusher as well, but was really very uncomfortable with how openly affectionate Crusher and Troi both were. But she had to admit it was growing on her.
"That's flattering Doctor, but we've got to get you out of here." Peel stepped back and regarded the physician.
Beverly peered over the other woman's shoulder and took in the sea of gold and red Starfleet uniforms engaged with the remaining rebels. She wondered what had become of Siohban. She looked back at Peel. "I'm guessing Riker and Data are down here."
"They are sir. I left them behind when I got in position to find you." Peel turned toward the fight. She grabbed a sensor booster from her belt and placed it on the wall. "Now let's get you home."
Crusher grabbed her shoulder. "Hold on. There must be injured down here. They need to get out of here more than I do." Crusher moved to walk back toward the battle.
Now Peel grabbed her shoulder. "Not so fast, Doctor. We came down here to get you out, and I'm a stickler for orders. You're unarmed and may be injured." Crusher opened her mouth to speak, and a stray phaser beam whizzed by, exploding into the rock. Emma pulled her down and looked at the burned-out wall pointedly. "And if I don't get you out of here now, Captain Picard will have me thrown bodily from the ship. If you want to take him on once you get back, that's your business." She gave Beverly a 'your funeral' shrug and met her eyes. Her expression was totally serious. Seeing that Crusher was mollified, she tapped her chest.
"Lieutenant Peel to Captain Picard. Have you got a signal lock on my location?"
"I've got two signals at your location, Peel." Picard's voice was stern. Crusher smiled, picturing his expression.
"Well, lock on to us Captain. I've got someone here who's pretty anxious to get home." Peel winked at Crusher. It was the closest thing to affection she could muster.
Picard broke into a tight grin on the Enterprise bridge. He'd no sooner finished beaming the two signals to transporter room three than he had risen and was on his way to the lift. The young lieutenant took his place as soon as he was up. Wolf turned to Picard as he walked past. "Pass along my best, Captain. Let her know I'll be down to sickbay as soon as we're in the clear down there."
"I'm sure she'll be glad to hear it, Admiral." Picard knew that Crusher would probably still be cursing Starfleet right up to the minute Wolf walked through sickbay's doors, but he wasn't about to let on. As the lift doors closed, he smiled again.
*********
As Picard exited the lift, he saw Peel and Crusher leaving the transporter room. His heart lifted as he saw Beverly, and he quickened his pace. The parties met halfway down the corridor, and Picard came to an abrupt halt, his hands clasped behind his back.
"Doctor." He swallowed nervously and his adam's apple bobbed.
"Captain." Crusher smiled demurely and gave Picard the 'I know you're embarrassed right now and I think it's funny' tone. Deciding to go easy on him, she turned to Peel. "Emma, I know you want to get back down there. I think Jean-Luc can help me find my way to sickbay."
Peel caught on quickly and made her exit. "I'm glad you're back, Doctor."
Crusher took her hand and smiled. "Thank you, Lieutenant. Your timing is impeccable."
Picard and Crusher watched the petite brunette walk away. They turned to each other and stared intently. Tears began forming in Crusher's eyes and she threw her arms around Picard. "Jean-Luc."
He almost fainted in relief as he held her tightly. "It's good to have you home, Beverly."
They parted reluctantly and began walking back toward the lift, Crusher clutching the Captain's arm.
"Are you injured?" Picard looked her over as they entered the lift. She seemed unharmed.
Crusher shook her head. "No, just some bumps and bruises." They stood in awkward silence. "I was beginning to think you weren't coming for me." She leaned over and elbowed him in the side.
Picard chuckled half-heartedly. "Halt lift." He turned back to Crusher. "Beverly, I will always come for you." He took her hands in his. "But even I had begun to lose hope that we would be in time."
Crusher gently laid her hand on his jaw. "Now that is a confession I would not expect from you, Captain. I admit I was a little nervous at the end, but I had no such doubts. I will never lose faith in you Jean-Luc Picard - and I will not have you giving up on yourself."
They stood that way for several minutes, conversing silently and lost in each other's eyes. The lift chirruped quietly, indicating a call from another station. Picard turned, and grasped Beverly's hand at his side. She smiled, knowing it was the closest thing to public affection she would ever get while they were onboard. "Resume."
*********
Pulaski finished a final turn around Crusher with the tricorder. "Everything checks out, Beverly. We'll take care of those bruises, and I'm giving you a full vitamin supplement. If I didn't know better, I'd say you hadn't been eating well for weeks." She arched an eyebrow disapprovingly at the frail CMO, and brought a hypo to her neck.
Crusher held up two fingers. "I promise to do better, Katherine." She did her best to look innocent.
"Promises, promises." Pulaski patted her knee. "Just to make sure, you're off duty for two days, and you're going to eat and sleep the whole time. I don't want to see hide nor hair of you around here."
Crusher looked around pointedly. "I leave you my sickbay for a couple months and suddenly you're heady with power." The women laughed. "Just don't get too comfortable, Kate." Crusher winked at the older woman.
Pulaski laughed. "I wouldn't dream of it. Besides," she jerked a thumb at Picard. "I think you're the only one who can handle treating this man on a regular basis." The pair descended into fitful giggles.
Picard gazed at each of them nervously. Here was an alliance he had not been familiar with. It could prove to be most disadvantageous.
Pulaski's gaze went from Crusher to Picard. "I expect help enforcing those orders, Captain. She won't go down without a fight."
Now Picard looked at Crusher pointedly. "You have my assurance, Doctor Pulaski. She will follow your orders to the letter."
Crusher stood and crossed her arms. "Honestly, you two are giving me a complex. I'm planting myself in front of a replicator, and I'm not moving until I've totally drained the power in my unit."
Picard smiled. "That sounds like a promise you can keep. And you have permission to raid my replicator should yours fail."
Crusher smiled and uncrossed her arms. "How gallant. Now, how about getting my to my quarters. I have a date with a hot bath." She looked down at her blood-smattered apparel and touched her now brittle hair. "And I'll be seeing Mr. Mott first thing in the morning."
With that Pulaski dismissed them, and she and Picard made their way back to the lift. It was now quite late into the ship's night rotation.
They arrived and entered her quarters. She sank into the nearest chair. "I just want to sleep for the next three days."
Picard walked over and sat opposite her. "If that is what you want, then say the word and I will make it so."
Beverly's eyes were closed, and she smiled wanly. "You're my hero, Jean- Luc."
Picard smiled as her sarcasm rose above even her exhaustion. He loved her dearly, and was thrilled just to have her back onboard. He stood and took her hand. "Come."
She opened her eyes and met his gaze. It was warm and open, and she returned it. Suddenly, she started and her eyes cleared. "Jean-Luc!"
He came to her and held her shoulders, his eyes flashing with concern. "Beverly, what is it? What's wrong?"
She shook her head. "No, I'm OK." She smiled knowingly at Jean-Luc. "I can't believe I didn't tell you. When I we were down on the planet. Siohban told us that the Alliance is not aligned with the Cardassians." She paused. "They're working with the Maquis. They're feeding us false information to keep the Federation engaged here."
Picard's expression was one of surprise, and he exhaled through drawn lips. "That is extremely valuable information, Doctor."
"I know Jean-Luc. I'm sorry I didn't tell you earlier." Her eyes reflected the disappointment she felt for having failed to debrief the Captain on the intelligence.
Picard caught her look and pulled himself up to full height, pulling the aura of his own authority about him. "Doctor Crusher, you have nothing to apologize for. Your performance of duty during your captivity was exemplary, and it continues to be so now. We will make immediate use of the information you've provided. The Federation owes you a debt in this matter, and I'll hear no further recriminations." He gazed at her sternly, but not without a great deal of kindness.
Crusher smiled faintly, recognizing Picard's tactics. "Aye, sir. Thank you."
Again, they spent a moment in silent conversation.
Picard took her hand. Looking down, he spoke quietly. "I need to get back to the bridge." He was clearly disappointed, as was Crusher. He looked up into her eyes. "But I will check on you at my first opportunity."
Beverly moved toward him and placed a hand on his chest. "I'd like to say I'll keep the bath hot until you get back." She arched her brow suggestively, and Picard's heart thundered in his chest. Even in her current state she took his breath away. "But I suspect that by the time you return I'll have been asleep for hours." She now sported a seductive pout.
"Beverly, walking out of that door right now may be the hardest thing I ever do." Picard took her head in his hands, and kissed her forehead. "My love, I will return to you on Hermes' own wings."
Now it was the Doctor's turn to contain her own racing heart. He was perhaps the most romantic man she'd known, a fact that few other people would even suspect. She could not bear to wait much longer to complete her relationship with Jean-Luc. "All right. I'll see you tomorrow." She traced a finger down his jaw and leaned in to kiss him. Their contact was powerful, and she felt herself trembling.
Picard pulled away softly and held her hands firmly. "Until then."
Beverly sighed as he walked out.
*********