A/N: You folks are the sweetest! Thank you all for your words of affirmation, love, and support as we journey through this story.
As promised, this next chapter is more action/adventure. This is set in the days leading up to the episode "Justice" with the Edo.
In that episode, Doctor Crusher urges Captain Picard to prioritise some shore leave for the crew as they had been working very hard in the days leading up to meeting the Edo. This chapter is an attempt to fill in that gap.
Thank you for your patience as this story unfolds!
Present
"That should be the last one," Geordi said as he finished placing the final isolinear control chip into the computer in the main building of the colony.
Geordi set to work replacing the panel as Miles O'Brien rebooted the system.
"Is that the final upgrade?" O'Brien asked.
They were both scunnered. They had pulled an all-nighter trying to get the upgrades finished in time.
"Thankfully, yes!" Geordi replied with a big grin.
Suddenly, his smile dropped as his VISOR fell on a lone isolinear chip laying on the floor.
Miles looked up and followed Geordi's line of vision.
"Where did that come from?" Miles asked in disbelief.
"I don't know," Geordi groaned. "We better get this panel off and find out."
For the last week, the Enterprise crew had been hard at work in helping to get the colony up and running. The Enterprise had transported a new party of colonists from Earth to this new colony in the Strnad solar system.
Aside from transporting colonists, the crew had a number of other responsibilities that had run them ragged.
One week earlier | Stardate 41247.1
The Enterprise and her crew had arrived at the Strnad system colony two hours earlier. Presently, they were sitting in the observation lounge in a final briefing before heading off for the week to see to their assignments.
"Lieutenant La Forge and the Engineering team will oversee the upgrade of the main computer system at the main colony base. Commander Data will take charge of the resupply and distribution," Captain Picard explained. "Commander Riker and Counsellor Troi will join in the negotiations on the new colony charter and Lieutenant Yar you've got your hands full this week."
"Yes, sir," Tasha said acknowledging the Captain.
The Captain's words were not an understatement.
Security was going to be pulling triple duty that week. One of their assignments would be training the new colony security team. Their second mission was to conduct a security sweep and analysis of a proposed colony expansion site.
And their third assignment had been a matter of excitement for the crew.
When she'd first seen the assignment, Tasha knew right away that Worf would be the best person to lead it. The newly proposed expansion site had run into some trouble from a large predator known as a Byaki. It was a little-known species of feline that the exobiology team was eager to study.
Weighing in at twenty-eight stone with an average length between three and four meters, they were formidable creatures.
They were common on the other side of the planet (one the colonists had been careful to avoid). Yet, for some reason, this particular creature had ventured far outside its traditional habitat.
Their goal was to capture and tag it before releasing it on the other side of the planet for further study.
Worf had been thrilled when he had learned he would be leading the team. Data's passion for exobiology had piqued his interest in the results of the hunt. Commander Riker found himself intrigued by the adventure.
"Lieutenant Worf will be leading the mission," Tasha explained. "Along with two security teams and Lieutenant Dhar and the exobiology team."
"I shall not fail," Worf said stoically.
The Byaki was a formidable beast and Worf was eager for the challenge.
"Sir, I'd like to request permission to accompany Lieutenant Worf on this assignment," Riker asked.
"I'm sorry Number One, I need you in the negotiations. But should we finish before this Byaki is captured I would be most willing to allow you to accompany the party," Picard said.
Riker sat back in his chair, deflated.
"Captain, would I also be permitted to join once my duties are completed?' Data requested.
"Anyone else?" Picard asked rhetorically before turning to the next part of the briefing.
Doctor Crusher was going to be conducting training for the colony medical personnel. This planet was particularly prone to Hsuqanon Rash and Starfleet medical had recently developed a new treatment for the ailment.
"So, we've got a lot to get done this week. I'll see you in four days for a mid-week briefing," Picard said as he rose from the table.
"Catch you guys then. I've got a computer to upgrade!" Geordi said with a smile.
"Indeed, this week will be quite full of preserves," Data said oddly.
Tasha bit her lip to hide a grin.
"Full of preserves?" Worf asked, looking to Data for an explanation.
"Do you mean 'jam packed' Mr Data?" Riker asked with a smile.
Data cocked his head to the side as he processed the difference in language.
"Yes, Commander," Data replied.
Three Days Later | Stardate 41250.2
"Room for one more?" A familiar voice asked as she dropped her Parrises Squares bag on the ground of the colony's loading dock.
Data turned around and saw Tasha and took note of the bag and her appearance.
She was wearing a Starfleet body armour vest, tactical arm and leg guards, and carrying a sizable phaser rifle.
"I'll head back up to the Enterprise on the next orbit and get the next batch of medical supplies ready for the next settlement," Doctor Crusher explained to Data as she excused herself to give them a moment alone.
It was day three of the expedition and this was the first time they'd seen one another since
Data had been overseeing the resupply distribution the last few days. It meant he'd been hopping back and forth between the Enterprise and the various colony outposts as the Enterprise remained in orbit. Thus far, they had managed to finish about 60% of the resupply effort.
For her part, Tasha had already completed the bulk of the training exercises with the security teams. She was eager to start her security sweep to analyse the proposed expansion site.
However, that sweep was dependent on Worf's team capturing the Byaki creature. It was too dangerous otherwise. The creature had already attacked several colonists including a survey team.
Unfortunately, Worf informed them the creature had somehow managed to elude them at every step. In the early morning hours, the animal had injured one of the members of the security team.
This is what had brought Tasha down to the loading dock.
"You are joining Worf?" Data asked as he looked down at her.
"Yes," she nodded.
"I heard that Ensign Juarez was injured this morning," Data said. "I was on night watch when the call came in. We beamed her directly to sick bay."
He paused.
"Where she remains," Data added in a low, dark voice.
Worf's message had indicated it had been a vicious attack. She could sense in the way he was looking at her that he was worried she was joining the hunting party. He was struggling to reconcile his concern for her safety with his understanding of her role as Chief Security Officer.
"This is my job, Commander," Tasha warned softly.
They both knew they couldn't have this discussion. They had agreed their relationship would not impact their duty to Starfleet.
"Worf contacted me to request we bring out a new batch of bait. It seems the creature managed to get into the stores. I will be departing shortly to make the drop off at their base camp," Data said as he pointed to the Argo ground vehicle that was loaded and ready to go.
Tasha nodded in acknowledgment.
"It will be a four hour and eighteen-minute ride to the site," Data explained as he picked up her Parrises squares bag to carry it over the vehicle.
"I am pleased to see you have taken the precaution of body armour," Data said. "The bite strength of the Byaki is 1,350 psi or similar to that of the Turkanan Jaguar."
Tasha was all too familiar with the jaguars that had stalked the jungles of Turkana. It had been part of the reason she was thankful to have Worf on her team. The idea of going after the creature had brought memories of her childhood to the forefront of her mind.
"Worf knows what he's doing and so do I," Tasha said, trying to instil confidence in Data.
"I have no doubt in your abilities," Data assured her.
Tasha began to secure her bag to the vehicle. She would need to strap it down securely with the rest of the cargo in the back of the Argo.
"I am still permitted to be concerned," Data whispered into her ear as he came up behind her and helped her pull the clamp on the strap securely.
She turned around to face him and stared back at him. Neither spoke.
"I know," she eventually said.
Data nodded slowly in response.
"Do I get to drive?" Tasha teased as she flashed him a grin.
He pondered her request for a moment. It had been years since Tasha had gotten to drive an Argo. They were fun, fast-moving vehicles similar to dune buggies that were equipped for all terrains. They required less resources to operate and maintain than shuttlecraft and were perfect for planets like the one they were presently on.
They were similar to the FAVs, or fast-attack vehicles, Tasha had learned to drive on Turkana.
"Part of the way," Data said, compromising. "Once we cross the Mindatek River I think it would be wise for me to drive the rest of the way as there are no road markers after that."
Tasha climbed into the right side and slipped down into the driver's seat. Data climbed in next to her and buckled his seat restraint.
Tasha pulled out of the loading dock. As soon as they were clear of the colony border, Tasha punched the speed, and they were off along the dirt road that led to the basecamp.
Bouncing along the road, with the wind in her hair Tasha felt alive. The sun was shining for the first time since they had arrived. It had rained almost nonstop since their arrival. The roads leading out of the colony had been largely reduced to mud.
Tasha reached across the centre console and found Data's hand. He looked down at their hands before glancing up to look at her. She flashed him a smile and they continued on.
"I will admit that you are quite adept at this," Data said as he observed her driving.
They were traveling at high speed through rough terrain and yet Tasha had managed it masterfully.
"These are just like the FAVs I used to drive on Turkana," Tasha said.
They nearly had to shout to hear one another at this speed. Tasha was thankful that at least there was an electromagnetic shield that functioned as a windshield. It was designed to disengage in the event of a crash or rollover.
They didn't have those on Turkana and thus it was important to keep your mouth tightly closed unless one wanted a mouthful of insects.
Data accessed his information files on Turkana and found the necessary files to learn what FAVs were.
"I see, an all-terrain vehicle designed with a roll cage typically utilized to traverse the rough terrain," Data said as he scanned the file.
Data turned to look at her and chose his next words carefully.
"Tasha, may I ask how you acquired such proficiency?" Data said.
"For a time, I got a job working as a courier for an arms dealer," Tasha explained.
Job opportunities on Turkana were slim – especially for a young woman that wanted nothing to do with the factions. Sex work was a common option. And for those lucky enough to make it into a faction hareem, it could provide safety and security.
Despite the temptation of security, Tasha had made a promise to herself that she would escape Turkana and when the opportunity came up to work for an underground, non-faction affiliated arms trader Tasha jumped at the chance.
As a neutral party, the dealer and his associates had unrestricted access to travel in and out of various faction cities. This allowed her to analyse and plan the limited options for getting off the planet.
But it wasn't without its risks – rival dealers, angry customers, smugglers, and the wilderness were all threats.
But there was a level of freedom that came with being a courier. Tasha was only beholden to her employer who was a tough, but fair man.
Tasha had been a natural. Her skill at navigating the terrain and knack for diffusing situations meant she more than earned her keep. And to her employer's delight, she kept her nose clean. Tasha had no interest in the drugs that were readily available throughout the different city-states on Turkana.
"There weren't a lot of ways to get off Turkana but one of them was the Annual Firehawk," Tasha said as she shifted the Argo down a gear.
The integrity of the terrain was much worse than it had been a few kilometres before.
"It's a race, Data. A race across the desert planet Tarko II. It takes eight days to cross the desert starting at the edge of the Ghziron Sea and ending at the coast of the Isicatic Ocean. And believe me, after 8 days in the desert nothing feels better than the ocean," Tasha explained with a smile.
In fact, the moment she had spotted the ocean on the horizon had been one of Tasha's happiest memories.
The Firehawk had been an ordeal, but it had been Tasha's escape and she was grateful for the opportunity.
"And did you win?" Data asked enthusiastically.
"No, Data," Tasha said.
Originally, her plan had been to win. The prize was more than enough latinum to buy her way off Turkana.
But on the final night before the race, she had learned her employer and benefactor had been killed by his own brother. The brother was a ruthless and notorious arms trader that was in deep debt to the Alliance.
Tasha had received a message that she needed to win because he required the latinum to pay his debts. He warned her that if she failed him the cost would be her life.
Without hesitation, Tasha used the sum of her savings to secure her escape.
Step one had been to pay a smuggler to meet her off the coast of the Isicatic Ocean on the final day of the race.
Data listened with fascination as Tasha recounted her cunning plan.
"I had to maintain the lead or Turgon would have grown suspicious," Tasha explained.
Turgon had kept close tabs on her throughout the race. He had a tracking device on the vehicle and eyes everywhere.
The final stretch of the race was along a narrow road that skirted the edge of the cliffs. Hundreds of feet below the powerful waves of the Isicatic Ocean beat against the rocky terrain that dotted the coast.
At the lowest point of the cliff, Tasha radioed that she was having steering difficulties. She then intentionally veered off course as the FAV drove off the cliff and fell to the water below.
She glanced over at Data who looked concerned.
"I had body armour and a breather," she explained to Data. "That was standard issue for any courier."
"You could have been killed," Data stated as he analysed the information and deduced she was fortunate the fall did not end her life.
"Oh, it hurt," Tasha laughed. "But I had to do it."
"Because you would have rather died than remain trapped?" Data asked as he attempted to comprehend her reasoning.
"Exactly, Data. I couldn't live in a cage," Tasha explained.
"It has been said freedom lies in being bold," Data said as he gave her hand a small squeeze.
"I had to fake my death, or I never would have made it out alive. I took that little freighter ship to the capitol city. From there I boarded a smuggler ship that offered me transport to the nearest surplus depot, where they assured me I'd be able to find work," Tasha said.
"How long did you work at the surplus depot?" Data asked her.
"I never did," Tasha said. "It had all been a lie. Shortly after we launched, they detained me. I was worth more in trade than what I had paid them."
She trailed off for a moment and Data suspected what had occurred. While gripping her hand, he stroked his thumb along the edge to remind her she was safe.
"I got lucky," Tasha went on. "The USS Renegade eventually detained their ship, found me and several others, and…well the rest is history."
Data brought her hand to his lips and planted a soft kiss on the back of it. They exchanged a glance.
"I am here and ready to listen should you wish to continue discussing this," Data stated.
"No. Thank you, Data," Tasha said sincerely.
Suddenly, Data's combadge pinged.
"Worf to Commander Data," it said as Worf's voice rang out.
"Go ahead," Data acknowledged as he tapped his badge in response.
"What is your ETA?" Worf asked.
"We are approximately halfway to your base camp," Data replied.
"Lieutenant Harris was on guard when he was attacked by the creature," Worf said with concern. "The Enterprise has left orbit to conduct some readings on this system's sun and will not return until tomorrow morning."
"Understood," Data replied.
They rode the rest of the way to the river in silence as the sun beat down on them. Data's bioplast was not capable of sustaining damage from the sun's rays but he could see Tasha's face was starting to turn red.
After another hour, Data noted the final marker before the river.
"We are approaching the river," Data said.
"You know with all this rain it's probably going to be pretty high," Tasha predicted.
Data looked at her.
"The water level," Tasha explained as she noted his look of confusion.
"Ah! Yes, the water levels will likely have increased beyond their acceptable flood levels," Data replied.
They spotted the river at the same time. Tasha slowed down and they stopped about thirty meters from the edge of the water.
"How deep do you think that is, Data?" Tasha asked.
"Scans indicate a depth of two point five meters," Data stated.
He noted the look on Tasha's face and immediately set about trying to talk her out of the idea he could see formulating on her face.
"The maximum safe submersion depth of this vehicle is one point five meters, Lieutenant," Data said as he tried to warn off her driving through it.
There would be no way to safely make it across – the water was too deep and moving quickly. Although the oversized tires of the Argo provided stability in the mud, they were not designed to handle being submerged at that depth.
Scanning the map on his PADD, Data looked to see if there was a shallower depth at which they could safely cross.
"There is another crossing twenty-four kilometres to the north," Data recommended.
Tasha noticed that on this side of the river, the terrain was higher. It sat several feet above the river below and the road had been cut out to allow for access down to the river. But across the river, the terrain was pretty level and several feet lower than their side.
Her eyes ran the length of the terrain from where the road had been dug out to the edge as she assessed if it would be long enough.
"How wide would you say that is? eight meters? nine?" Tasha asked.
"It is eight point four meters across," Data said without looking up from his PADD.
"Hang on," Tasha said as she threw the Argo in reverse.
When they were back far enough to adequately gain enough speed, the vehicle jolted to a stop.
Data glanced from the water to the Tasha.
"Tasha, it is unwise to attempt this," Data advised as she revved the engine.
"We don't have time to wait. Harris is injured," Tasha said.
Data considered that he could order her to take the alternative route, but he decided to trust her instinct.
"You will need to achieve sufficient speed," Data stated. "And it is possible we may sustain damage."
"It will take another hour to go north and double back," Tasha responded.
"Then I suggest you 'punch it'," Data said as he gripped the bar of the roll cage above him.
When they landed, Data was wide-eyed. He'd never experienced something like that with another person. Data had been in plenty of risky and thrilling situations before. Yet, he had never felt the kind of emotional sensation that was flowing through him.
Trepidation mixed with excitement. Suspense and amusement.
It was electrifying.
Tasha slowed the vehicle to a stop and Data caught his breath.
"Are you alright?" Tasha asked him.
"That was exhilarating," Data told her.
"Will you be OK to drive or would you like me to continue?" Tasha questioned.
"I have programmed the coordinates of the base camp into my neural net. As there are no remaining road markers after this point, I think it would be practical if I were to take over the last leg of this trip," he advised as he rose out of the vehicle.
Tasha pulled herself up and stood on the driver's seat. Reaching up, she stretched. She let her arms drop and flexed her shoulder blades, hearing a satisfying light crack.
The sun was beaming down, and the temperature was on the rise. It was the middle of the afternoon and the muggy heat left by the storms made it a sticky afternoon.
Data ran his tricorder along the vehicle to inspect for any damage from their landing.
"There is minimal damage to the vehicle's suspension system, but otherwise-" Data stopped as a loud screech sounded above.
Suddenly, a large, winged created dove at the vehicle. Data crouched next to the Argo and Tasha ducked down inside.
Wasting no time, she unhooked her phaser rifle from its storage slot and began to scan the sky. They could both hear the flapping of the huge wings of the creature.
"What is that?" Tasha asked as she scanned the sky.
"I believe it is a Howdact," Data explained as he quickly filtered through his research notes on the planet. "A pterosaur type animal with an average wingspan of four meters. And they usually travel in packs. The local colonists warned Worf to be on the lookout for them. This is the mating season."
A loud thud landed several meters away from Data's side of the Argo. Three of the Howdacts had landed and were scratching at the dirt. They had spotted Data. Thinking fast, he pulled himself under the Argo.
"Stay still, Tasha. They are attracted to movement," Data advised.
"Acknowledged," she advised as she crouched in the seat.
They stayed still for a few moments hoping the creatures would lose interest. Unfortunately, they remained. Data noted they had a keen sense of smell and suspected they could detect the bait they were carrying.
"We need to get out of here," Tasha said as she eyed them through her rifle.
"Agreed," Data said as he tried to formulate a plan to escape.
"I'm going to carefully slip into the passenger seat, come up on the left and I'll cover you," Tasha said.
Slowly, Tasha made her way across the console and slipped into the passenger seat.
Data slid along the ground and pulled himself up on the right side of the Argo. Hugging the vehicle, he rose along it.
So far, so good. He mused to himself.
But he knew that he would have to make himself visible to climb in.
"Go now," Tasha advised.
Data quickly, but carefully, pulled himself up using the roll cage and slipped into the seat. He wasted no time in engaging the controls and speeding along.
Data kept his eyes focused on the terrain, but he could hear the screeches closing behind them. The terrain meant it was difficult to reach sufficient speed to outrun the winged creatures.
"Three o'clock, Data," Tasha said as she noted a second group of the creatures in the sky that began to dive.
Data shifted to a higher gear.
"We will not reach the necessary speed before impact and they are capable of rolling this vehicle," Data advised.
"Can you keep it steady?" Tasha asked as she considered how to best get a shot off.
"I shall endeavour to 'keep it steady'," Data replied as he projected the smoothest possible course.
Using the bar as leverage, Tasha stood and placed her knee on the seat. She took aim and waited as she lined up her shot.
Data's auditory receptor could hear the creatures were coming in close on his right.
Although he had no adrenaline, Data's neural net was firing on all cylinders as they raced along the terrain with the creatures in tow.
"Hold onto something," Data shouted as he spotted a treeline ahead.
Tasha grabbed the roll cage and clutched her phaser rifle tightly. The vehicle jerked to the left in an effort to make a beeline for the cover of the trees.
"You do realise it is unlikely you will be able to take out enough of the creatures in time," Data advised he noticed Tasha had opened the control panel on the phaser rifle.
She recalibrated the output and reattached the panel.
"I'm counting on it. Shut off your audio receptor," Tasha replied.
Data wasn't sure what her plan was but obliged her request and deactivated his audio receptor.
Tasha fired a blast back toward the creatures. It had the desired effect. She had reconfigured the phaser rifle to dispel a high-level sound wave burst instead of a phaser beam.
It was enough to render the creatures momentarily disabled and they were able to make their escape into the trees.
Tasha sat down back into the seat and tapped Data on the shoulder. He stopped the vehicle and looked at her. She was nodding to him. He interpreted this a signal that it would be safe to turn his audio sensors back online.
The screeches were fading.
"They have turned back?" Data asked as he looked back.
"I recalibrated the phaser to release a high-pitched repulsive sound wave instead. It's undetectable by human ears but-" Tasha stated.
"You knew that it would damage me?" Data said in awe as he pieced together her plan.
"I got the idea from you. One of my first tasks as Chief Security Officer was to make a plan in the event you were to ever become a threat," she explained.
She had never told Data that information before.
"I understand," he replied.
And it was true. In fact, he was impressed that she had considered the possibility and had found a solution.
He had never told her about his deactivation switch.
He had never told anyone.
Some of the scientists that had initially examined him were aware of the switch. But it had been left out of all Starfleet records on his anatomy.
"You know I would never do that to you unless it was absolutely necessary," Tasha said, assuring him.
"You never cease to amaze me, Lieutenant," Data said with a smile.
About an hour and a half later the camp was insight. As they approached the camp, they could see there was a perimeter detection grid that had been set up around the tents that served as shelter from the rain. In addition, they had managed to put up some temporary lighting tripods.
Data pulled the Argo to a halt and Tasha jumped out over the side. She hit the ground with a satisfying 'squish' as her boots made contact with the mud below.
Both Data and Tasha grabbed an armful of supplies and made their way into the central hub of the small camp. They found Worf leaned over a camp table in deep thought. As they grew closer, Tasha could see he was inspecting a map of the area.
He heard their approach. Looking up, Worf greeted the pair with a broad smile.
"I am pleased you are here," he said.
"What's the situation?" Tasha asked.
"The creature has managed to elude capture. It has proven a most formidable opponent," Worf stated.
"Where is Lieutenant Harris?" Data asked.
Worf guided them into the nearest tent where they found Lieutenant Harris resting on a camp cot. The wound on his leg had been field dressed but it was evident he'd sustained a nasty bite from the creature. Harris was conscious but pretty tired from blood loss.
Data pulled out his tricorder and began to scan the wound.
"It appears the bite radius of this particular Byaki would indicate a creature larger than the species average," Data explained.
"We believe it is a male," Worf stated. "Lieutenant Dhar believes the unseasonably warm, wet weather over the last year has led to a population boom. He thinks this particular male set out in search of new territory due to overcrowding."
"That is a logical assessment. Byaki males are typically solitary creatures," Data said concurring with Worf's information.
"Is Harris stable enough to be transported?" Tasha inquired as she examined the Lieutenant's condition.
"I believe so. It is important that we get him back to the colony's medical facility for treatment as we lack sufficient equipment to continue an acceptable level of blood replenishment here," Data stated.
Worf and Data picked up the stretcher that Harris was on and carried him over to the Argo vehicle. The other officers had unloaded the cargo and the back of the unit was cleared. They set Harris down gently.
Tasha climbed up and ensured that his leg was properly supported with a rudimentary splint. Then she attached the safety restraints.
"It's going to be a bumpy ride," she said as she gave Harris's hand a squeeze.
Harris nodded weakly in response.
"We should depart immediately. At our present location, we will lose daylight in three hours, seven minutes, and nine seconds and it would be unwise to make the journey in the dark," Data said.
"I'm assigning a security escort to accompany you back," Tasha said.
Data cocked his head at her.
"In case you run into those flying nightmares on the way back," Tasha explained. "Just give me a few moments to show him how to reconfigure the settings on his phaser rifle."
Tasha went off to find Ensign Walsh and walk him through the plan in case they encountered the Howdacts on their return journey.
Data took the opportunity to ask Worf some questions about the creature. He desperately wished he could stay as he was curious about the lifeform. The Byaki was a rare animal and very few had ever been seen or studied. It was a unique opportunity and a part of Data felt disappointed that his duties as Second Officer meant he could not accompany the exobiology team.
"What is the attack pattern?" Data inquired.
"It has never attacked in the same manner," Worf replied. "This creature is like a ghost. It slips in without our notice. It stalks the camp, taunting us."
"Most interesting," Data said.
"We've taken to sleeping in shifts during the day. It isn't safe to sleep at night out here," Worf explained.
"I hope your efforts are successful tonight. I only wish I could remain," Data said.
"You're all set," Tasha said as she approached the pair with Ensign Walsh in tow.
"Lieutenant Yar, the third tent on the left is where you'll find your sleeping quarters. I would recommend you rest before the evening," Worf said as he motioned to the tent.
Worf bid farewell to Data and headed off to catch a nap himself in preparation of the long night ahead.
"Commander, before you go could you take a look at one of the perimeter beacons with me?" Tasha said as Data turned to leave.
"Is it malfunctioning?" Data inquired.
"I'm not sure, it's just back here and should only take a moment," Tasha replied.
Data looked around quickly before turning back to Tasha with a confused look on his features.
"There are no perimeter beacons in that direction," Data suddenly stopped as he saw Tasha's lips narrow in frustration.
He now understood she was attempting to discreetly request a moment alone.
"However, I could be mistaken. I will be along momentarily, Ensign," Data said to Walsh in a clumsy attempt to cover.
Walsh took the hint and headed off in the direction of the Argo. Data followed Tasha to the backside of the tent.
"I apologise that I failed to understand your subtle-" Data tried to apologise but Tasha silenced him with a chaste kiss.
"Be careful out there," she said before planting another kiss on his hand.
"Have fun," he replied with a small smile as he pulled her in for a tight hug.
As they sped along the terrain, Data was relieved they had not encountered the Howdacts again. He was driving carefully to avoid jostling Lieutenant Harris too much for fear that it may reopen his wounds.
In addition, crossing the river at the safer point to the north meant they had to take extra time. Attempting their earlier crossing would not be possible.
It meant the return journey was taking longer than anticipated. The sunlight was beginning to fade, and Data calculated they still had another two hours and six minutes of travel left before they would reach the main base of the colony.
He had tried to gain as much information from Ensign Walsh about the creature as possible. The sensations he had experienced during his introduction to Sherlock Holmes had returned.
Data would describe it as feeling giddy.
He desperately wanted to get back to the camp. He wanted to see this creature that was so mysterious and intriguing.
"Came out of nowhere," Walsh shared as he recounted what had happened. "It was like it was there one minute and then it was just gone."
"This creature is most elusive," Data replied.
He had cross-referenced his knowledge of other elusive feline-like creatures in similar environments in hopes it may provide him with a strategy on how to capture the Byaki.
They rode along for a few moments in silence before Walsh worked up the courage to ask a question that had been gnawing at him for some time.
"So, you and Tasha, eh?" Walsh asked as he nudged Data's arm.
Data looked down at where Walsh had lightly jabbed him before turning his eyes back to the road.
"What's she like? You know, the real Tash, behind closed doors?" Walsh pressed.
"I do not understand the question," Data stated.
"I always thought she played for the other team. Had I known that wasn't the case, I'd I've jumped on that ages ago. I got a thing for blondes and she's cute you know," Walsh shared as he went on.
Data did not fully understand Walsh's euphemism. He accessed his internal information bank and soon understood what the Ensign was implying.
"Gomez said he heard from a guy in Engineering that his friend knew someone that served with her on the Crazy Horse. Said she was real sex kitten," Walsh said.
Data felt repulsed at Walsh's words.
"Ensign, is Lieutenant Yar typically a subject of gossip among the security personnel?" Data asked in alarm.
Data did not like where this conversation was going but was also morbidly curious about the human nature to ponder the private lives of others.
"On the other hand, Blakely said when they hooked up, she was transactional. No romance, straight to business. Wasn't interested in being sweet," Walsh went on.
Data was thoroughly confused. There was something awfully familiar about the way Walsh was speaking. It reminded him of how some of his fellow classmates at the academy had spoken of other cadets in matters of sexual gossip.
"But I think she's got a sweet side. We've all seen the way she looks at you. And there's no way to miss that spring in her step when she comes in for her morning shift after leaving your quarters. Secrets don't stay secret for long on a starship, Commander- even one as big as the Enterprise," Walsh commented.
Data suddenly felt strangely guilty. It felt refreshing to be seen as so human by another person. However, he knew that Tasha would not appreciate this conversation. He also surmised it may be time to have another conversation about the nature of their relationship.
He felt compelled to share the information with Tasha the next time he saw her. It was important for her to be aware that the crew were engaging in these discussions. However, he considered that she may be mortified knowing this had occurred. She was an exceptionally private person.
"So, c'mon Commander. What's she like? Is it true she's got a Starfleet tattoo on her-" Walsh stopped as Data pushed hard on the brake.
Lieutenant Harris cried out as the jolt of the sudden stop jostled his wound.
"I am sorry Lieutenant Harris," Data said as he turned around to assess if he had caused any damage to the injured man.
Harris waved him off. His bandages were holding.
Data looked at Ensign Walsh.
"Lieutenant Yar is your superior officer. More than that she is a person. You will cease discussing her and any other personnel in this manner," Data said harsher than he intended.
"Sorry, Commander," Walsh replied meekly.
They rode the rest of the way in silence.
Back at the camp, Tasha and Worf were sitting in a tree just outside of the camp. Neither had moved or spoken. They were watching the camp from two angles in an attempt to try guard against the creature.
The last few nights the animal had stalked around the camp and had somehow managed to slip through their perimeter security undetected.
There was hardly any wind and the only sounds were the buzz of insects and the occasional bird call in the distance. Thankfully, the rain had held off and there were few clouds in the sky.
Tasha looked up at the sky. She was so used to being up in the stars, sometimes it was nice to stare up at them from solid ground.
A twig snapped in the dark. She silently pulled her phaser rifle up to use the scope to see into the dark. The scope was equipped with the ability to allow thermal image scanning - so if the creature was out there, she should be able to see it.
A quick scan produced no results.
Worf had also come up empty handed as he scanned in the opposite direction.
Tasha shrugged. They'd been communicating silently since the sun had gone down.
Suddenly, he held a finger up to his lips and then pointed below them.
Tasha felt a chill as she listened and could hear the breathing of a large creature. It was below them, approximately five meters down right under the tree they were sitting in.
Do they climb? Tasha suddenly wondered.
On Turkana, the jaguars often climbed trees. If this creature had similar behaviour, Worf and Tasha were in danger.
She glanced down but couldn't see anything. Although it was dark, her eyes were adjusted to the darkness and she could hear it was close enough. The creature should have been visible.
Straining her eyes, she scanned around them but could see no sign of the animal.
Worf had the same concern. He could tell the creature was near but was also unable to spot it.
Without warning, the alarm on their baited trap went off and a security team came running in with lights and their phaser rifles drawn.
Having the high ground, Tasha and Worf began scanning with their scopes in an effort to try locating the animal. The bait was deliberately chosen to be large with the intention that it would force the animal to drag it off rather than running away.
"Two o'clock," Worf said.
Tasha turned her scope to the direction and spotted the creature. It was large and it was making quick work of hauling away the bait.
Worf took a shot with his phaser rifle, but missed. The creature let out a bone-chilling, deep roar and retreated into the dark.
"Ql'yah," Worf cursed.
Tasha cocked an eyebrow at him. She knew the translation and that was pretty strong language.
"Sorry," Worf said quickly.
Tasha replied with a laugh.
Climbing down they joined the security team on ground. Tasha dropped down to the ground and ran her hand along the track in the dirt. It was huge and it had literally been right beneath them.
They traced the tracks out to where the creature had abandoned the bait. Two ensigns picked it up – they would hook it back up in hopes it would lure the creature back.
All of a sudden, the same terrifying roar from earlier rang out in the darkness from the other side of the camp.
"Bring the bait, come on," Tasha said as she led the team toward where the noise had come from.
Rushing back into camp they scanned carefully along the darkness. They could hear growling and knew the creature had to be close.
"It is taunting us," Worf said.
Tasha was concerned. The team was getting jumpy. Jumpy ensigns and phaser rifles were not a safe combination.
"Ensign Gomez, turn on the camp lights," Tasha ordered.
"But the creature will flee," Worf said in protest.
"We'll reset the trap and try again. I don't want any accidents or-" Tasha had tried to explain but was cut off.
Ensign Gomez fired his phaser, and two other security team members began to fire blindly in the same direction.
"CEASE FIRE!" Tasha ordered as she whipped her rifle around and could see there was nothing where they were firing.
Ensign Gomez activated the camp lights, and they reattached the baited trap.
"We've still got a few hours of darkness left, but right now I think the team is a little shaken and we need to hit the reset button before we proceed," Tasha ordered.
Worf nodded in agreement.
"Sorry, Lieutenant," Gomez apologised
After the bait was reattached, Data and Tasha resumed their position in the tree overlooking the camp.
"I think we should put up an observation tower tomorrow," Tasha said as she scanned the area. "We need the high ground, and something tells me this tree isn't very safe."
"The Enterprise will be back in orbit in a few hours and we can have them beam down the supplies then," Worf replied.
"I think we need to bring in an extra security team too. These guys are getting a little jumpy. This creature is in their head," Tasha commented.
"The Klingon legend of the Amura Lo mqa' tells the story of two Klingon brothers attempting to slay a great beast that has terrorised their village. In the end, they become so obsessed with hunting the beast they destroy their own village in the process," Worf said.
"Another Ahab," Tasha said in reply.
Captain Picard had shared the literary classic with her when she had first joined the Enterprise crew. He'd seen many of the same fanatical passions in the young Security Officer and thought it would serve as a reminder to never get too lost in a sense of duty.
Back at the main colony, Data had worked through the night. Working at maximum efficiency, he had managed to complete the remaining distribution before the Enterprise returned at 06:00 hours.
Upon its return, Captain Picard beamed down to meet back up with Commander Riker and Counsellor Troi for another day of negotiations.
Data caught them on their way to breakfast.
"Ah, Mr Data. How is the distribution going?" Picard asked as they walked along toward the colony's canteen.
"The distribution is complete," Data said.
"Excellent work. Would you care to join us in the negotiations?" Picard asked.
"Actually sir, I'd like to request permission to join the exobiology team on the hunt for the Byaki," Data said.
"Of course," Picard replied.
"Sir, I'd also like to request permission to join Mr Data and the team on the hunt," Riker requested.
"I need you in these negotiations, Number One," Picard stated.
"You and Counsellor Troi are far more talented negotiators," Riker countered.
"Number One, as Mr Data's task has been completed-" Picard sighed.
"And it's not fair Data can work through the night," Riker protested.
"Is that not what you were doing last night with the Ambassador?" Deanna said with a hint of innuendo.
Riker grinned.
"We had a deep conversation about the western colony's need for a new aquifer," Riker replied. "In fact, she agreed that they would withdraw their demand for three seats in the charter in exchange for a new aquifer."
"Really?" Picard questioned.
Riker nodded. It wasn't a line.
The western colony's demand for three seats on the new Colony leadership council had been the final piece holding up the passage of the charter.
"Could you delay your departure for an hour Mr Data?" Picard asked.
Back at camp, the sun had been up for about an hour. The team had placed the bait back into a cold storage unit and were settling down to catch some rest. They had brought in a fresh security team and the Enterprise had dropped off the supplies for the observation tower along with a crew from Operations to construct it.
Feeling exhausted, Tasha headed back to her tent to catch some rest before the next night's watch. She slipped out of her boots and settled into the camp cot. Putting her arm under her head she stared up at the beige ceiling above her.
Slowly, she drifted off to sleep.
Tasha moaned appreciatively. Something felt good. It was a hand on her back, rubbing small circles between her shoulder blades. She was laying on her stomach and it felt warm and cosy.
"Do not get up," Data whispered.
"I wish this wasn't a dream," Tasha said, still half asleep.
"I assure you it is not," Data replied as he placed a kiss on her forehead.
Her eyes fluttered open and saw Data kneeling beside her cot.
"How did you…?" she trailed off.
"I finished the distribution and Captain Picard agreed to allow me to accompany the hunt," Data said with an eager smile.
Tasha sat up and wiped the sleep from her eyes.
"What's got you so excited?" Tasha asked.
"The Byaki is a most intriguing creature and I find myself thrilled at the prospect of participating in that research," Data replied.
Tasha grinned at him. She was still drowsy, but it was nice to see him excited about something other than a warp core. She reached out and pulled him close.
"Then I'm happy for you," she said softly.
She closed the distance between them and captured his lips in a kiss.
"Rise and shine!" Commander Riker said with a booming voice as he burst into the tent.
Data and Tasha broke apart.
"I was going to offer you breakfast but it looks like you're already having a snack," Riker said with a grin.
Tasha was unsure how to respond. Data didn't understand the phrase. He tilted his head to the side as he attempted to decipher the colloquialism.
"I'll see myself out," Riker said as he motioned to the tent entrance.
"Was that a euphemism for-" Data stopped talking as Tasha pulled him back in for another kiss.
When they broke apart, Data was the first to speak.
"The crew may observe that I have been in your tent longer than is appropriate for maintaining the guise of a working relationship," Data commented.
"We're not on duty yet," Tasha replied coyly. "In fact, we've got another four hours before we start our shifts."
"Three hours, forty-eight minutes, and seventeen seconds to be precise," Data said.
"Good, I'll have time for a nap," Tasha said with a smile.
"Tasha, why would you sleep if you just woke up?" Data asked.
"We'll only need about twenty minutes," Tasha said as she began to unzip the front of Data's uniform.
His breath hitched and his mouth formed a small 'oh' as he realised the implication of her suggestion.
"Eighteen minutes and thirty-three seconds if you would like me to repeat the same actions as the morning we departed for this mission," Data said as he cupped her face.
Tasha smiled. He could be surprisingly flirtatious in his own strange, endearing way. His speech may have seemed mechanical to some, but to Tasha it was like music.
"There is no way to secure the door," Data observed as he glanced in the direction of the tent flaps.
Tasha pulled his face back to look at her. She pressed her fingers to her lips to indicate they would need to be quiet.
"Oh," Data whispered as his eyebrows shot up.