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Sabotage III Chapter Two
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"Crusher to Data."
"Data here Doctor, what can I do for you?"
"Can I see you in my office for a moment?"
"I'll be right there."
Crusher had spent the following morning trying to isolate the substance Lieutenant Walker had smuggled onboard bodily, with little success. After a fitful sleep, she'd given in and headed to her shift only an hour late. Powell gave her a dirty look as she'd entered, and Beverly had merely held up a hand to ward off the chastising as she walked into her office. But she'd been undisturbed the entire time. Likely Alyssa had ratted her out to the attending physician, who'd given orders she not be disturbed.
Data entered. Beverly stood and secured the doors. She placed her arm through the android's and guided him to the chair opposite her desk. She took her own chair and leaned in conspiratorialy. Data mimicked her actions.
"Data, I trust Jean Luc spoke with you this morning?"
"Yes Doctor. He explained that you are aiding in the attempt to gather evidence against Lieutenant Walker. And that you and the Captain must appear to strongly dislike each other."
"Yes."
"In that case I must say that I commend your performance on the bridge yesterday. It was very convincing."
"Well, that's why I've asked you here today. I need your help, Data." Crusher lowered her voice as she spoke, and leaned further forward.
Data leaned forward even more, and the two were now inches from the other. He lowered his voice as well. "I would be happy to help Doctor. What is required?"
**********
"Good morning Admiral Necheyev. To what do I owe the pleasure?"
"Our scientists have been able to isolate the substance Doctor Crusher discovered in Lieutenant Walker."
Picard arched both eyebrows. "By all means, Admiral, continue."
"It's harmless." Necheyev dropped the bomb and sat back. Picard simply waited in grim silence.
"Nothing more than an innocuous organic suspension. However, we do believe it was designed to lead us astray - Crusher shouldn't feel too badly."
"I doubt she'll find the news comforting."
Now Necheyev leaned forward, her voice dropping in tone and pitch. "May I ask, Captain, how Doctor Crusher came to be investigating Lieutenant Walker in the first place?"
"You can always ask, Admiral." Picard's stoic face betrayed nothing. Neither spoke.
"You have many friends at Starfleet, Picard, but you haven't got carte blanche." She paused to add gravity to her statement. "But the issue of the day is the M'dar. It appears that we now have nothing on Walker but circumstance. If he is carrying a weapon, we have yet to discover it. And if he's not, then we're back to square one."
"You're just full of good news today, aren't you Admiral?"
Necheyev smiled primly. "Just keeping you on your toes out there. Now is there anyone on your ship who doesn't know about the investigation into Walker and the M'dar?"
What a viper that woman was. Picard winced internally, but merely replied, "only three of my senior staff are involved in the matter. I trust them each implicitly."
"I must renew my order that you keep this information confidential. And ask that you discreetly expand your investigation. Walker's up to something. All other ships in the fleet will be following the same protocol."
"Very well. I'll keep you apprised." Picard was terse.
"We'll be in touch. Necheyev out."
A conversation with Alayna Necheyev never failed to put Picard in an abysmal mood. He turned back to his station and began typing a message to Beverly. She would not be pleased.
*********
Crusher was perplexed. Now she could not bring herself to believe that Walker *wasn't* somehow tied into the M'dar conspiracy. The analysis from Starfleet was conclusive, but Beverly wasn't able to let it go. She turned back to her console and began her research anew, starting with what they'd discovered on Hepa III. The M'dar had invested a lot into that project. She doubted they would simply abandon it. Even if what Walker was carrying in him wasn't a weapon, it wasn't naturally occurring. It was there for a reason.
"And what do we have here?" Crusher chewed at the end of her stylus and murmured to herself. "I thought so." The chemical was inactive in its current state, but was a clear derivative of the compounds extracted from Hepa III. And it was possible that, when combined with a catalyst, it would have multiple uses - several of them destructive. "Bingo."
She turned to the chronometer. Her research would have to wait. She had a "date" with Picard in 10 Forward. He should be joining Data for an early dinner in mere minutes. She'd had something up her sleeve already, but the communiqué she'd received this morning opened the door even wider.
She grabbed her labcoat and glided out the door.
*********
Picard walked into 10 Forward and was immediately greeted by Data, who lead him over to a table near the center of the lounge.
"I must say Data, I was surprised by your dinner invitation."
Data attempted to smile casually. The effect was sadly comical. "I have an important matter to discuss with you, Captain."
"Well then, Mr. Data, fire away." Picard sat back and placed a napkin in his lap. A waiter passed by, and Picard ordered a cup of tea.
"For quite some time, I have been reading a 'Christmas Carol,' by the Earth author Charles Dickens. I assume you have read it, sir?"
"Yes Data, I'm quite familiar with the material. Is this the urgent matter you needed to discuss?" Picard found that hard to believe. At that very moment, however, he saw Beverly Crusher stride into the room. One look at Data confirmed his suspicions. He'd been set-up. The moment she spotted Picard, she made right for the table, trouble in her eyes.
She sat down and crossed her long legs, the picture of calm. She ignored Data and spoke directly to Picard. Her tone was low and glacial. "What the hell was that you sent me this morning?"
"I was simply relaying information from Starfleet, Doctor Crusher. I had no control over the content." He adopted a dismissive air. Where the hell was she going with this?
She still spoke barely above a whisper, but her posture was accusatory. "What you were doing, Captain, was implying that my research was inferior."
"I assure you I meant nothing of the sort, Doctor." Their voices had not raised, but the intensity between the two attracted the attention of every crew member in the lounge. Picard was cringing inside. Their waiter set their drink order in front of them and beat a hasty retreat.
"You're assurances don't carry much weight in my office anymore, Captain," Beverly hissed.
He paused and cleared his throat, taking a drink and replacing his tea on the table. "That is your problem. If you are dissatisfied with your situation, I can arrange for another." His voice was low, but incredibly stern. His insinuation was clear.
Crusher stood abruptly, took a step back, and now raised her voice. "I have worked too hard and come too far to allow you to have me transferred to some meaningless desk job. And I will not have you, of all people, questioning the caliber of my work."
She'd upped the ante. Picard responded in kind. "Your 'work' is hardly the question, Doctor Crusher." His voice dripped sarcasm.
Crusher now stood over Picard, arms crossed, color high in her cheeks. The table was a step below where she currently stood, giving the appearance that she towered over him. Her eyes flashed as she looked at Picard, then the table. Her left eyebrow shot up. Picard's expression was calm. There was little she could say without risking a charge of insubordination. She'd already gone farther than he'd allow anyone else. A fact that was well- known on the ship.
Crusher abruptly changed tactics, smiling sweetly. "Well Captain, if you feel that way. I guess I can't ask for much more than your unquestioning support." She leaned forward as if to walk away, but surprisingly lost her footing. Years of dance training made her seem graceful even as she lost her balance over the small step. Her arms went out to steady her through the fall. Sweeping them forward, Picard's tea went flying from the table and splashed across the front of his tunic. It all happened quickly, and he'd had no time to react. Data, however, had been up in a split second, and was already steadying the Doctor before she'd fallen completely. Within seconds, it was over. Picard knew the story would be throughout the ship in an hour.
There was no mistaking the merriment in Crusher's eyes. "Jean Luc, I'm *so* sorry. How could I have been so clumsy?"
The mortified waiter had appeared with a towel, and Picard began to clean himself off. The tea was uncomfortably hot. Dryly, he responded.
"I doubt anyone would ever accuse you of being clumsy, Beverly." His look and tone were dangerous. The other occupants of the lounge were blatantly staring. "You will report to my ready room within the hour." There was an inaudible gasp from the spectators. Picard stood crisply and left the lounge. As soon as he'd cleared the door, a grin played at his lips. What would that woman do next? Still, it was a bit more of a public scene than he was really comfortable with, and his reprimand would need to be stern, and public as well, lest he lose all control over his ship. His patience with this situation was wearing thin.
**********
Beverly quickly guided Data out of 10 Forward. She could hardly contain her laughter until she was in the lift.
Crusher took a minute to compose herself. "Bridge." She turned. "Thank you Data. I couldn't have pulled that off without you."
The android's pale eyes seemed concerned, and his brows were furrowed. "Are you quite sure that the Captain will not be angry, Doctor?"
"I gave him fair warning, Data. And if he's at all upset, I promise it won't be with you."
"Very well Doctor. But I will be glad when this business with Lieutenant Walker is concluded."
Beverly clapped him on the shoulder. He looked down at her hand quizzically. "That makes two of us, my friend." The lift came to a stop. She leaned to whisper in his ear. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to go deal with the Captain."
The bridge staff turned to the lift as Crusher and Data exited. The Captain had stalked through minutes before, and news of the scene in 10 Forward had already made its way to the bridge.
Beverly nodded to a bewildered Riker and Troi before tapping the chime to the Captain's ready room.
***********
"I've got good news, Jean Luc." Crusher strolled in and took a seat on Picard's couch.
"Apology accepted, Beverly." Picard looked up from his station and regarded her seriously.
"Now Jean Luc, I apologized last night." She tried to look contrite, but could only do so for a minute before she began to giggle. Picard was unmoved. "You should have seen the look on your face! I hope the tea wasn't too hot." Crusher's face was serious again as she rose and pulled a tricorder from her pocket. She began scanning the large, wet blotch on Picard's chest.
"Fortunately for you, it wasn't." Picard had waited to change his tunic for effect. As Beverly sat opposite the desk, he retreated to his restroom, where he promptly changed into a casual duty uniform. "Now, what was it you were saying about good news?"
"I reviewed what Starfleet sent this morning. They were correct in deducing that the isolated material in Lieutenant Walker is inert in its current stage. But I believe that it's meant to be combined with another agent. Which means that Walker's got another trick up his sleeve"
The Captain jumped in. "Or he's working with an accomplice."
"Exactly."
"Good work Doctor. But perhaps next time a simple note would do." He tilted his head and raised his eyebrow.
"But Jean Luc, it's so much more fun this way." She smiled flirtatiously. "We haven't had breakfast or dinner in weeks," she pouted.
"Are you saying you miss me, Beverly?" He sat back in his chair and steepled his hands. The game was once again afoot. It felt warm and familiar, but it too, was growing old.
"Perhaps just a little. But don't let it go to your head." She wagged a finger at the Captain, who appeared appropriately chastised. "Now. What are we going to do about Walker and the M'dar?"
"I'm sorry Beverly, but it seems we have no choice but to maintain the charade. Please forward me your report, so I can pass it on to Admiral Necheyev. And for now....."
"It's back to the briar patch." Crusher was glum. "I want some serious shore leave for this, Jean Luc. I don't know how long I can keep fending off Walker's advances without appearing suspicious." She twisted the knife. "He's very forward." Her eyes were wide with feigned innocence.
Picard shrugged it off. "Perhaps I can help in your struggle to be, shall we say, 'liberated.'"
"How chivalrous. And no ulterior motive?" Beverly's eyes twinkled.
"You may have forgotten that a certain CMO recently dumped a cup of tea in my lap in a very public place. That kind of display cannot be overlooked." Picard came forward and leaned on the desk directly in front of Crusher.
"I don't like where this is going, Jean Luc." she tilted her head and looked up.
"You'll like it even less in a minute." He crossed his arms and smiled. "If I'm correct, the Paresi Squares tournament begins tomorrow."
"Yes."
"And it runs from 0800 to 2000 each day for a week?"
"I believe so."
"I see." Picard tapped his chest. "Commander Riker, will you please join me and Doctor Crusher in my ready room for a moment?"
Momentarily Riker responded. "Yes sir, right away." He glanced at Deanna. Both had been insanely curious about what was happening between the Captain and Doctor since she'd strutted in minutes ago. Now that he had the opportunity to see first hand, he was more than apprehensive.
The ready room doors parted. Riker entered, eyes focused on the Captain. He did not dare to look at Beverly, who seemed extremely nervous, gazing at Picard with trepidation.
"Can I help you sir?" Riker stood at attention, arms behind his back.
"Yes Will. Doctor Crusher and I were just discussing the Paresi Squares tournament." Thinking of the Earl Grey bath he'd received earlier, Picard smiled ferociously at Beverly.
Riker grimaced. It was not Crusher's favorite subject. He had to pull a new con every year just to keep her from canceling it.
"I believe, Commander, that there is some friction between you and the Doctor regarding the tournament. And I endeavor at all times to maintain harmony on the ship. I believe that Doctor Crusher would benefit from further study of the subject." He looked pointedly at Crusher, then back at Riker. "Therefore, I am asking that she officially observe the entire tournament this year, and after draft a thorough report for making the it safer. This will ensure that her fears are allayed," he looked again at Beverly, walked over to Will and laid a hand on his shoulder, "and that the tournament can continue as long as you're willing to organize it Number One." He smiled as though he'd just won the tournament himself.
Riker looked nervously from Picard to Crusher. It was certainly a mixed blessing. "Aye sir. If that's all?" Will wanted out of that room as soon as possible.
"That's all Will. Beverly will see you first thing in the morning." The tall Commander nodded his head and retreated hastily.
Picard walked back over to his desk and sat down again. He gave Beverly a challenging look. "Problem solved, Doctor. You'll be quite unavailable for social engagements."
"So it seems." She stood and thrust her hands into her lab coat. "Very clever, Jean Luc."
"You'll be busy all week, and for a few days after drafting your report - and I did say thorough."
"If you're not careful Captain, your next physical will be extremely thorough," she shot back, no humor in her voice.
Picard smiled and raised his eyebrows, crossing his arms behind his head.
"And I won't be the one to administer it." Crusher whipped around and walked out.
***********
"Ringside at the Paresi Squares tournament? All week?" Walker was visibly disappointed, and incredulous at the same time. On any other ship, an officer would be relieved for a stunt like the one in 10 Forward that afternoon. She'd really cowed Picard, he thought.
"I'm afraid so. Frankly, I'm surprised he didn't send me to the brig. But it won't be long before I'm out of here." She placed their dinner dishes in the recycler and stood over Walker, who was sprawled comfortably on his couch. "Now walk me to my quarters, kind sir."
Again Walker's face was scrawled with disappointment. He hadn't scored in days. "What?"
"You heard me, mister. I've got a load of work to get done by 0800 tomorrow if I'm going to be tied up all day." Crusher's hands were on her hips.
"Alright. But I'm beginning to have my own disagreements with Picard." He grumbled and stood.
"Well, why don't you just tell him that when you report tomorrow morning." She stood as tall as she could and threw back her shoulders, lowering her voice to imitate Walker. "Captain, I've got a bone to pick with you. Your discipline is interfering with my sex life." Her face was stern.
Walker laughed. "Well, it's the truth." He grabbed her around the waist, lifted her off her feet and kissed her deeply. After a minute he pulled back and set her down. "Are you sure you can't stay for just a while?"
She touched a finger to his lips. "Mmmm. I wish I could." 'Thank you, Jean- Luc, for getting me out of this' she thought internally. "But I think I've gotten away with about as much as I can for now."
They smiled at each other as they headed out the door, his arm again around her waist.
**********
As the doors closed behind Crusher and Walker, a blue column shimmered in his cabin. After materializing, Data immediately opened a tricorder and headed directly for the bedroom. Doctor Crusher had come to him that afternoon with evidence that a catalyst was needed to activate whatever Walker had smuggled onboard. Data had spent the following hours studying Walker's quarters, and had isolated three objects that might house the agent. He began his search.
Removing the mattress from the bed, Data discovered a compartment in the base, which he opened. It contained a box, which he also promptly opened. Data postulated that at this moment he might be feeling anxiousness, and possibly guilt over searching a fellow officer's quarters without their consent. He reasoned as well that the justifications for his actions were legitimized by Walker's own actions.
The box contained several holopics, all of them properly functioning and displaying what he guessed were Walker's family. He carefully replaced the box and mattress, and moved back into the living area. An automated alarm grabbed his attention. "Lieutenant Walker has left Doctor Crusher's quarters." Data promptly made for the couch, where he removed the far left cushion. Pulling back the fabric on the base, he located another compartment, which contained a slender box. He opened it and this time discovered a hypo. Unable to test the contents with his tricorder, he quickly replicated another and placed the double in the box. He tapped his shoulder. "Transporter room three. One to beam directly to my quarters." He shimmered away only shortly before the doors opened and Walker strolled in.
Glancing around, the Lieutenant cocked his head to the side. His quarters felt different. He listened to his gut. "Computer, has anyone been in my quarters since I left with Doctor Crusher?"
The computer emitted a familiar chirp indicating that it was unable to process his request. He asked again. Moments later, it responded. "Negative."
Unconvinced, he walked over to the sofa and removed the left cushion. He opened the compartment he'd created, and the box hidden within. Nothing seemed askew. He replaced it all and made for the bedroom, sighing. "I'm just about ready to blow this pop stand."
***********
Crusher had been pacing her cabin when the comm finally chirped.
"Lieutenant Data to Doctor Crusher."
She replied quickly. "Crusher here Data. Were you successful?"
He replied in his typically passive tone. "I believe so Doctor. Will you join me in my quarters to test what I have found?"
"On my way Data." She grabbed her lab coat from the back of a chair and flew out the door.
When she arrived, Data had already lodged the purloined hypo into his station and begun to study the readings.
"What've we got, Data?" Crusher placed a hand on his shoulder and leaved over, reading the findings on the screen.
"Unclear Doctor. The analysis may take several hours."
Crusher stood and rubbed her lower back. "I'll be on the couch if you need me."
**********
Early that morning, Crusher woke stiffly to see Data standing over her.
Closing her eyes, she mumbled thickly. "Just tell me we've got him, Data."
The android explained his discoveries, and Crusher was, by this time, wide awake.
"I guess we'd better call the Captain." She stood and tapped her badge. "Crusher to Picard." Given the hour, she doubted he'd have company. At least he'd better not.
A moment later he responded groggily. "Picard here, Doctor."
"Please join me in Data's quarters, Jean-Luc. I think he's found something."
"Very well. Picard out." He cut the link abruptly.
Data favored Crusher with a skeptical look.
"Don't worry Data." She lowered her voice. "Don't forget - we're not actually fighting."
"I understand Doctor."
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Sabotage III Chapter Two
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"Crusher to Data."
"Data here Doctor, what can I do for you?"
"Can I see you in my office for a moment?"
"I'll be right there."
Crusher had spent the following morning trying to isolate the substance Lieutenant Walker had smuggled onboard bodily, with little success. After a fitful sleep, she'd given in and headed to her shift only an hour late. Powell gave her a dirty look as she'd entered, and Beverly had merely held up a hand to ward off the chastising as she walked into her office. But she'd been undisturbed the entire time. Likely Alyssa had ratted her out to the attending physician, who'd given orders she not be disturbed.
Data entered. Beverly stood and secured the doors. She placed her arm through the android's and guided him to the chair opposite her desk. She took her own chair and leaned in conspiratorialy. Data mimicked her actions.
"Data, I trust Jean Luc spoke with you this morning?"
"Yes Doctor. He explained that you are aiding in the attempt to gather evidence against Lieutenant Walker. And that you and the Captain must appear to strongly dislike each other."
"Yes."
"In that case I must say that I commend your performance on the bridge yesterday. It was very convincing."
"Well, that's why I've asked you here today. I need your help, Data." Crusher lowered her voice as she spoke, and leaned further forward.
Data leaned forward even more, and the two were now inches from the other. He lowered his voice as well. "I would be happy to help Doctor. What is required?"
**********
"Good morning Admiral Necheyev. To what do I owe the pleasure?"
"Our scientists have been able to isolate the substance Doctor Crusher discovered in Lieutenant Walker."
Picard arched both eyebrows. "By all means, Admiral, continue."
"It's harmless." Necheyev dropped the bomb and sat back. Picard simply waited in grim silence.
"Nothing more than an innocuous organic suspension. However, we do believe it was designed to lead us astray - Crusher shouldn't feel too badly."
"I doubt she'll find the news comforting."
Now Necheyev leaned forward, her voice dropping in tone and pitch. "May I ask, Captain, how Doctor Crusher came to be investigating Lieutenant Walker in the first place?"
"You can always ask, Admiral." Picard's stoic face betrayed nothing. Neither spoke.
"You have many friends at Starfleet, Picard, but you haven't got carte blanche." She paused to add gravity to her statement. "But the issue of the day is the M'dar. It appears that we now have nothing on Walker but circumstance. If he is carrying a weapon, we have yet to discover it. And if he's not, then we're back to square one."
"You're just full of good news today, aren't you Admiral?"
Necheyev smiled primly. "Just keeping you on your toes out there. Now is there anyone on your ship who doesn't know about the investigation into Walker and the M'dar?"
What a viper that woman was. Picard winced internally, but merely replied, "only three of my senior staff are involved in the matter. I trust them each implicitly."
"I must renew my order that you keep this information confidential. And ask that you discreetly expand your investigation. Walker's up to something. All other ships in the fleet will be following the same protocol."
"Very well. I'll keep you apprised." Picard was terse.
"We'll be in touch. Necheyev out."
A conversation with Alayna Necheyev never failed to put Picard in an abysmal mood. He turned back to his station and began typing a message to Beverly. She would not be pleased.
*********
Crusher was perplexed. Now she could not bring herself to believe that Walker *wasn't* somehow tied into the M'dar conspiracy. The analysis from Starfleet was conclusive, but Beverly wasn't able to let it go. She turned back to her console and began her research anew, starting with what they'd discovered on Hepa III. The M'dar had invested a lot into that project. She doubted they would simply abandon it. Even if what Walker was carrying in him wasn't a weapon, it wasn't naturally occurring. It was there for a reason.
"And what do we have here?" Crusher chewed at the end of her stylus and murmured to herself. "I thought so." The chemical was inactive in its current state, but was a clear derivative of the compounds extracted from Hepa III. And it was possible that, when combined with a catalyst, it would have multiple uses - several of them destructive. "Bingo."
She turned to the chronometer. Her research would have to wait. She had a "date" with Picard in 10 Forward. He should be joining Data for an early dinner in mere minutes. She'd had something up her sleeve already, but the communiqué she'd received this morning opened the door even wider.
She grabbed her labcoat and glided out the door.
*********
Picard walked into 10 Forward and was immediately greeted by Data, who lead him over to a table near the center of the lounge.
"I must say Data, I was surprised by your dinner invitation."
Data attempted to smile casually. The effect was sadly comical. "I have an important matter to discuss with you, Captain."
"Well then, Mr. Data, fire away." Picard sat back and placed a napkin in his lap. A waiter passed by, and Picard ordered a cup of tea.
"For quite some time, I have been reading a 'Christmas Carol,' by the Earth author Charles Dickens. I assume you have read it, sir?"
"Yes Data, I'm quite familiar with the material. Is this the urgent matter you needed to discuss?" Picard found that hard to believe. At that very moment, however, he saw Beverly Crusher stride into the room. One look at Data confirmed his suspicions. He'd been set-up. The moment she spotted Picard, she made right for the table, trouble in her eyes.
She sat down and crossed her long legs, the picture of calm. She ignored Data and spoke directly to Picard. Her tone was low and glacial. "What the hell was that you sent me this morning?"
"I was simply relaying information from Starfleet, Doctor Crusher. I had no control over the content." He adopted a dismissive air. Where the hell was she going with this?
She still spoke barely above a whisper, but her posture was accusatory. "What you were doing, Captain, was implying that my research was inferior."
"I assure you I meant nothing of the sort, Doctor." Their voices had not raised, but the intensity between the two attracted the attention of every crew member in the lounge. Picard was cringing inside. Their waiter set their drink order in front of them and beat a hasty retreat.
"You're assurances don't carry much weight in my office anymore, Captain," Beverly hissed.
He paused and cleared his throat, taking a drink and replacing his tea on the table. "That is your problem. If you are dissatisfied with your situation, I can arrange for another." His voice was low, but incredibly stern. His insinuation was clear.
Crusher stood abruptly, took a step back, and now raised her voice. "I have worked too hard and come too far to allow you to have me transferred to some meaningless desk job. And I will not have you, of all people, questioning the caliber of my work."
She'd upped the ante. Picard responded in kind. "Your 'work' is hardly the question, Doctor Crusher." His voice dripped sarcasm.
Crusher now stood over Picard, arms crossed, color high in her cheeks. The table was a step below where she currently stood, giving the appearance that she towered over him. Her eyes flashed as she looked at Picard, then the table. Her left eyebrow shot up. Picard's expression was calm. There was little she could say without risking a charge of insubordination. She'd already gone farther than he'd allow anyone else. A fact that was well- known on the ship.
Crusher abruptly changed tactics, smiling sweetly. "Well Captain, if you feel that way. I guess I can't ask for much more than your unquestioning support." She leaned forward as if to walk away, but surprisingly lost her footing. Years of dance training made her seem graceful even as she lost her balance over the small step. Her arms went out to steady her through the fall. Sweeping them forward, Picard's tea went flying from the table and splashed across the front of his tunic. It all happened quickly, and he'd had no time to react. Data, however, had been up in a split second, and was already steadying the Doctor before she'd fallen completely. Within seconds, it was over. Picard knew the story would be throughout the ship in an hour.
There was no mistaking the merriment in Crusher's eyes. "Jean Luc, I'm *so* sorry. How could I have been so clumsy?"
The mortified waiter had appeared with a towel, and Picard began to clean himself off. The tea was uncomfortably hot. Dryly, he responded.
"I doubt anyone would ever accuse you of being clumsy, Beverly." His look and tone were dangerous. The other occupants of the lounge were blatantly staring. "You will report to my ready room within the hour." There was an inaudible gasp from the spectators. Picard stood crisply and left the lounge. As soon as he'd cleared the door, a grin played at his lips. What would that woman do next? Still, it was a bit more of a public scene than he was really comfortable with, and his reprimand would need to be stern, and public as well, lest he lose all control over his ship. His patience with this situation was wearing thin.
**********
Beverly quickly guided Data out of 10 Forward. She could hardly contain her laughter until she was in the lift.
Crusher took a minute to compose herself. "Bridge." She turned. "Thank you Data. I couldn't have pulled that off without you."
The android's pale eyes seemed concerned, and his brows were furrowed. "Are you quite sure that the Captain will not be angry, Doctor?"
"I gave him fair warning, Data. And if he's at all upset, I promise it won't be with you."
"Very well Doctor. But I will be glad when this business with Lieutenant Walker is concluded."
Beverly clapped him on the shoulder. He looked down at her hand quizzically. "That makes two of us, my friend." The lift came to a stop. She leaned to whisper in his ear. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to go deal with the Captain."
The bridge staff turned to the lift as Crusher and Data exited. The Captain had stalked through minutes before, and news of the scene in 10 Forward had already made its way to the bridge.
Beverly nodded to a bewildered Riker and Troi before tapping the chime to the Captain's ready room.
***********
"I've got good news, Jean Luc." Crusher strolled in and took a seat on Picard's couch.
"Apology accepted, Beverly." Picard looked up from his station and regarded her seriously.
"Now Jean Luc, I apologized last night." She tried to look contrite, but could only do so for a minute before she began to giggle. Picard was unmoved. "You should have seen the look on your face! I hope the tea wasn't too hot." Crusher's face was serious again as she rose and pulled a tricorder from her pocket. She began scanning the large, wet blotch on Picard's chest.
"Fortunately for you, it wasn't." Picard had waited to change his tunic for effect. As Beverly sat opposite the desk, he retreated to his restroom, where he promptly changed into a casual duty uniform. "Now, what was it you were saying about good news?"
"I reviewed what Starfleet sent this morning. They were correct in deducing that the isolated material in Lieutenant Walker is inert in its current stage. But I believe that it's meant to be combined with another agent. Which means that Walker's got another trick up his sleeve"
The Captain jumped in. "Or he's working with an accomplice."
"Exactly."
"Good work Doctor. But perhaps next time a simple note would do." He tilted his head and raised his eyebrow.
"But Jean Luc, it's so much more fun this way." She smiled flirtatiously. "We haven't had breakfast or dinner in weeks," she pouted.
"Are you saying you miss me, Beverly?" He sat back in his chair and steepled his hands. The game was once again afoot. It felt warm and familiar, but it too, was growing old.
"Perhaps just a little. But don't let it go to your head." She wagged a finger at the Captain, who appeared appropriately chastised. "Now. What are we going to do about Walker and the M'dar?"
"I'm sorry Beverly, but it seems we have no choice but to maintain the charade. Please forward me your report, so I can pass it on to Admiral Necheyev. And for now....."
"It's back to the briar patch." Crusher was glum. "I want some serious shore leave for this, Jean Luc. I don't know how long I can keep fending off Walker's advances without appearing suspicious." She twisted the knife. "He's very forward." Her eyes were wide with feigned innocence.
Picard shrugged it off. "Perhaps I can help in your struggle to be, shall we say, 'liberated.'"
"How chivalrous. And no ulterior motive?" Beverly's eyes twinkled.
"You may have forgotten that a certain CMO recently dumped a cup of tea in my lap in a very public place. That kind of display cannot be overlooked." Picard came forward and leaned on the desk directly in front of Crusher.
"I don't like where this is going, Jean Luc." she tilted her head and looked up.
"You'll like it even less in a minute." He crossed his arms and smiled. "If I'm correct, the Paresi Squares tournament begins tomorrow."
"Yes."
"And it runs from 0800 to 2000 each day for a week?"
"I believe so."
"I see." Picard tapped his chest. "Commander Riker, will you please join me and Doctor Crusher in my ready room for a moment?"
Momentarily Riker responded. "Yes sir, right away." He glanced at Deanna. Both had been insanely curious about what was happening between the Captain and Doctor since she'd strutted in minutes ago. Now that he had the opportunity to see first hand, he was more than apprehensive.
The ready room doors parted. Riker entered, eyes focused on the Captain. He did not dare to look at Beverly, who seemed extremely nervous, gazing at Picard with trepidation.
"Can I help you sir?" Riker stood at attention, arms behind his back.
"Yes Will. Doctor Crusher and I were just discussing the Paresi Squares tournament." Thinking of the Earl Grey bath he'd received earlier, Picard smiled ferociously at Beverly.
Riker grimaced. It was not Crusher's favorite subject. He had to pull a new con every year just to keep her from canceling it.
"I believe, Commander, that there is some friction between you and the Doctor regarding the tournament. And I endeavor at all times to maintain harmony on the ship. I believe that Doctor Crusher would benefit from further study of the subject." He looked pointedly at Crusher, then back at Riker. "Therefore, I am asking that she officially observe the entire tournament this year, and after draft a thorough report for making the it safer. This will ensure that her fears are allayed," he looked again at Beverly, walked over to Will and laid a hand on his shoulder, "and that the tournament can continue as long as you're willing to organize it Number One." He smiled as though he'd just won the tournament himself.
Riker looked nervously from Picard to Crusher. It was certainly a mixed blessing. "Aye sir. If that's all?" Will wanted out of that room as soon as possible.
"That's all Will. Beverly will see you first thing in the morning." The tall Commander nodded his head and retreated hastily.
Picard walked back over to his desk and sat down again. He gave Beverly a challenging look. "Problem solved, Doctor. You'll be quite unavailable for social engagements."
"So it seems." She stood and thrust her hands into her lab coat. "Very clever, Jean Luc."
"You'll be busy all week, and for a few days after drafting your report - and I did say thorough."
"If you're not careful Captain, your next physical will be extremely thorough," she shot back, no humor in her voice.
Picard smiled and raised his eyebrows, crossing his arms behind his head.
"And I won't be the one to administer it." Crusher whipped around and walked out.
***********
"Ringside at the Paresi Squares tournament? All week?" Walker was visibly disappointed, and incredulous at the same time. On any other ship, an officer would be relieved for a stunt like the one in 10 Forward that afternoon. She'd really cowed Picard, he thought.
"I'm afraid so. Frankly, I'm surprised he didn't send me to the brig. But it won't be long before I'm out of here." She placed their dinner dishes in the recycler and stood over Walker, who was sprawled comfortably on his couch. "Now walk me to my quarters, kind sir."
Again Walker's face was scrawled with disappointment. He hadn't scored in days. "What?"
"You heard me, mister. I've got a load of work to get done by 0800 tomorrow if I'm going to be tied up all day." Crusher's hands were on her hips.
"Alright. But I'm beginning to have my own disagreements with Picard." He grumbled and stood.
"Well, why don't you just tell him that when you report tomorrow morning." She stood as tall as she could and threw back her shoulders, lowering her voice to imitate Walker. "Captain, I've got a bone to pick with you. Your discipline is interfering with my sex life." Her face was stern.
Walker laughed. "Well, it's the truth." He grabbed her around the waist, lifted her off her feet and kissed her deeply. After a minute he pulled back and set her down. "Are you sure you can't stay for just a while?"
She touched a finger to his lips. "Mmmm. I wish I could." 'Thank you, Jean- Luc, for getting me out of this' she thought internally. "But I think I've gotten away with about as much as I can for now."
They smiled at each other as they headed out the door, his arm again around her waist.
**********
As the doors closed behind Crusher and Walker, a blue column shimmered in his cabin. After materializing, Data immediately opened a tricorder and headed directly for the bedroom. Doctor Crusher had come to him that afternoon with evidence that a catalyst was needed to activate whatever Walker had smuggled onboard. Data had spent the following hours studying Walker's quarters, and had isolated three objects that might house the agent. He began his search.
Removing the mattress from the bed, Data discovered a compartment in the base, which he opened. It contained a box, which he also promptly opened. Data postulated that at this moment he might be feeling anxiousness, and possibly guilt over searching a fellow officer's quarters without their consent. He reasoned as well that the justifications for his actions were legitimized by Walker's own actions.
The box contained several holopics, all of them properly functioning and displaying what he guessed were Walker's family. He carefully replaced the box and mattress, and moved back into the living area. An automated alarm grabbed his attention. "Lieutenant Walker has left Doctor Crusher's quarters." Data promptly made for the couch, where he removed the far left cushion. Pulling back the fabric on the base, he located another compartment, which contained a slender box. He opened it and this time discovered a hypo. Unable to test the contents with his tricorder, he quickly replicated another and placed the double in the box. He tapped his shoulder. "Transporter room three. One to beam directly to my quarters." He shimmered away only shortly before the doors opened and Walker strolled in.
Glancing around, the Lieutenant cocked his head to the side. His quarters felt different. He listened to his gut. "Computer, has anyone been in my quarters since I left with Doctor Crusher?"
The computer emitted a familiar chirp indicating that it was unable to process his request. He asked again. Moments later, it responded. "Negative."
Unconvinced, he walked over to the sofa and removed the left cushion. He opened the compartment he'd created, and the box hidden within. Nothing seemed askew. He replaced it all and made for the bedroom, sighing. "I'm just about ready to blow this pop stand."
***********
Crusher had been pacing her cabin when the comm finally chirped.
"Lieutenant Data to Doctor Crusher."
She replied quickly. "Crusher here Data. Were you successful?"
He replied in his typically passive tone. "I believe so Doctor. Will you join me in my quarters to test what I have found?"
"On my way Data." She grabbed her lab coat from the back of a chair and flew out the door.
When she arrived, Data had already lodged the purloined hypo into his station and begun to study the readings.
"What've we got, Data?" Crusher placed a hand on his shoulder and leaved over, reading the findings on the screen.
"Unclear Doctor. The analysis may take several hours."
Crusher stood and rubbed her lower back. "I'll be on the couch if you need me."
**********
Early that morning, Crusher woke stiffly to see Data standing over her.
Closing her eyes, she mumbled thickly. "Just tell me we've got him, Data."
The android explained his discoveries, and Crusher was, by this time, wide awake.
"I guess we'd better call the Captain." She stood and tapped her badge. "Crusher to Picard." Given the hour, she doubted he'd have company. At least he'd better not.
A moment later he responded groggily. "Picard here, Doctor."
"Please join me in Data's quarters, Jean-Luc. I think he's found something."
"Very well. Picard out." He cut the link abruptly.
Data favored Crusher with a skeptical look.
"Don't worry Data." She lowered her voice. "Don't forget - we're not actually fighting."
"I understand Doctor."
****************