A/N: Thank you who have read, liked/kudos/voted, subscribed/followed, and reviewed. Getting lost in this story had been a labour of love and I'm so grateful for all of you who have joined on that journey.
Part One of the Edo/Justice storyline! Enjoy! :)
This story is a retelling of the first season of TNG. We're playing a wee bit fast and loose with canon. My intention is to weave in both "missing scenes" and some original adventures. In this story, Miles is the transporter Chief and is considered a fellow senior officer.
Cheers!
Charlie
"It's like an Eden," Beverly explained as she took a sip of her synthesised wine.
She was back aboard the Enterprise after visiting the Edo planet.
"That's exactly how Lieutenant Moran described it," Tasha said.
During their time on the colony, the Enterprise had explored other M-Class planets in the same solar system. One of the planets they found was that of the Edo. It was a beautiful planet with lush gardens and a temperate climate. The people were technically advanced but lived a simple life of leisure and relaxation.
The Enterprise crew were long overdue for shore leave and this planet seemed like it may provide just the right thing for the overworked crew.
The initial away team, headed by Doctor Crusher, had made a formal recommendation to the Captain.
"And you think he will approve shore leave?" Deanna inquired.
Beverly nodded with a small smirk.
"I'm going to push for it. I think the Captain will agree," Crusher said.
They had concluded their mission on the colony, and everyone had felt the strain of the last week on both their minds and bodies.
Beverly had treated Riker's injuries following their dramatic capture of the creature. There was no lasting damage, but being drug across the rocky, muddy terrain had left him sore and heavily bruised.
"Was it worth it?" Beverly asked him.
"Absolutely!" Riker replied, beaming.
"I think we are all due for a break," Deanna said as she cast her gaze at Tasha.
"You are going to love it," Beverly said as she recounted what their encounter had been like.
"The Edo sound lovely," Deanna smiled.
"You know I have to complete the report before we can even consider a rotating shore leave schedule," Tasha replied.
"Of course, but I know tonight I'll be dreaming about one of those massages," Beverly winked.
"Let's just not get our hopes up yet, OK? Every garden has it's snakes," Tasha replied.
"Tasha, are you alright?" Deanna asked.
Both Beverly and Deanna had been concerned when they had heard about the incident with the Byaki creature. In their roles as Chief Medical Officer and Counsellor, they were a little apprehensive after reading the report. Tasha, Worf, and Commander Riker were all risk-takers. The hunt had injured several crewmembers.
As friends, they were concerned that Tasha had made a number of risky choices during the week.
"Once we complete the evaluation, we'll be able to assess if shore leave is appropriate," Tasha stated. "I don't think we should get our hopes up just yet."
Deanna and Beverly looked at her sceptically.
"We are just a little worried about you," Deanna explained.
"What?" Tasha asked as she noted the doubt on their features.
"I'm just a little surprised to hear you of all people urging caution on this," Beverly commented.
"It's my job," Tasha replied.
Deanna bit her lip. Beverly cocked her head to the side and chose her words carefully.
"You jumped a flooded river in a ground vehicle," Beverly shrugged.
Tasha opened her mouth to protest but Deanna beat her.
"And you were inches away from a creature that could have bitten your face off. You made no move to get away," Deanna added.
"I was trying to calm it down!" Tasha retorted. "Besides, you likely would have done the same thing. I didn't need to be empath to see it was afraid."
"We're just worried about you," Deanna said as she grabbed Tasha's hand.
"We managed to capture both creatures humanely and the exobiology team said they've got enough new data to keep them busy for weeks," Tasha said defensively.
"That's not the point. You like the thrill of adventure. You take big risks and we're worried about you," Beverly explained.
"Then why do you have a problem with me approaching the Edo with caution?" Tasha asked.
"Because when it comes to a dangerous situation, you have a tendency to rush in headfirst. But when it comes to something that could be relaxing or fun it's like you shut down and focus all of your energy on work," Deanna explained.
Tasha didn't respond immediately.
Beverly got up from her table and grabbed a bottle from a cold-storage container on her desk. She returned with the bottle in hand and popped it open, pouring all three women a drink.
"This is real wine," Beverly said with a smirk on her lips and a twinkle in her eye.
She placed the bottle in the centre of the table and slid back into her seat.
There was a moment of silence as Deanna and Beverly waited for Tasha to find the right words.
"The safety of everyone on this ship is my responsibility. If I let down my guard, I put everyone at risk. But it's different when it's me," Tasha said as she tried to explain. "I know sometimes I act before I think."
"If we get shore leave, how do you intend to spend it?" Will you be taking shore leave with the Captain?" Deanna asked the doctor straightaway.
"No," Beverly said quickly. "The Edo have a retreat of sorts complete with yoga and a sauna. I intended to relax, eat too much, and get a massage."
There was a brief pause.
"Or two," Beverly said mischievously as she leaned back in her chair.
"Well, that sounds stimulating," Deanna smirked.
"I hope so," Beverly laughed as she took a sip of her wine.
"What about you, Tasha?" Deanna asked.
"No, I will not be taking my shore leave with the Captain," Tasha replied dryly.
Beverly choked on her wine and Deanna laughed.
"Very funny, Natasha," Deanna said.
Tasha rolled her eyes.
Tasha hadn't really considered the possibility of what she would do with her time.
Suddenly, she came to a horrible realisation. She was always responsible for establishing the shore leave schedules with Commander Riker. These schedules divided the crew into three sections to ensure proper staffing on the ship. Usually leave would last a week. Each shift would get seventy-two hours of leave and the last twenty-four hours was spent on the Enterprise getting everyone back in gear for the next mission.
It guaranteed the Enterprise was still sufficiently manned in case of an emergency while simultaneously ensuring everyone got some down time to relax.
That is, everyone but Data.
During the time they had served together, Data had never taken shore leave. He had always been in Command during their previous shore leave trips to enable both Captain Picard and Commander Riker the opportunity to have some time off.
Tasha felt horrible. She knew Data was capable of working without rest, but she also knew he enjoyed his time away from work. He had hobbies and interests and friends. Never before had she even considered his personal feelings in developing the schedule.
"Tasha?" Beverly prompted.
"I am sensing you are feeling guilty. But these feelings of guilt are misplaced. Everyone's safety is the responsibility of all senior officers. It doesn't just rest on you," Deanna said.
"It's not that," Tasha said as she shook her head.
She tapped her combadge and paged Commander Riker.
"Have you finalised the potential shore leave draft schedule?" Tasha asked urgently.
"Not yet, Lieutenant," Riker replied.
"Can you hold off until tomorrow. I need to take care of something," Tasha asked.
"Of course," Riker said.
"Thank you," Tasha said as she tapped her badge in response.
"Everything alright, Tasha?" Riker asked as he noted the concern in her voice.
"I overlooked someone," Tasha admitted.
"Understood. We'll take care of it tomorrow," Riker said.
Tasha smiled and took a sip of her wine.
Beverly and Deanna looked to Tasha for an explanation.
"I think shore leave is going to be great," Tasha said as she raised her glass.
"I'll toast to that," Beverly said as she joined the toast.
"Mmm hmm," Deanna added as the three clinked their glasses together.
"What do you plan to do with Wesley during the trip?" Deanna asked Beverly.
"I'm sure he'll be more than happy to have the place to himself for a few days. When I got back from that medical conference on Tavarus VII, he had the whole room full of parts he'd ripped out from a mock warp core rebuild," Beverly said.
Tasha and Deanna laughed.
"And I think I'd like a few days on my own," Beverly admitted. "But I'm sure grateful that Wesley makes the responsibilities of motherhood easy. He's a good kid."
"Data thinks very highly of him," Tasha said.
Deanna cocked her head as she looked at Tasha. It was the first time Tasha had mentioned Data during any of their weekly get-togethers.
"Wesley's been grateful that he and Lieutenant La Forge have taken him under their wing in Engineering. They don't treat him like just a kid, and that means a lot to him," Beverly said.
"Well, that's because he isn't just a kid. He's bright and," Tasha paused for a moment. "And he treats Data like a person."
Tasha wasn't sure if it was the wine or the newfound confidence in her relationship with Data since the morning he'd arrived at the hunting camp, but she felt more at ease in opening up about her relationship with her friends.
After their return to the Enterprise, Data had filled her in on his ride with Ensign Walsh.
Tasha suspected he had left out some of the more unpleasant comments. She knew Walsh was a chauvinist. It was something she was used to encountering from time to time in her role as a security officer.
And she was fully aware that there had been gossip among the crew, in particular, the security crew that were hyper aware of her movements.
But at the moment, Tasha didn't feel so reserved about discussing her relationship with Data.
The three women had always shared an understanding about their personal lives. As senior officers, they knew there was a level of discretion that was expected from someone in their respective roles.
Furthermore, they were all three infatuated with someone they weren't necessarily supposed to be. Beverly had long ago confessed her old friendship and attraction to Captain Picard.
"Maybe in another life," Beverly would say anytime they raised the issue.
Deanna's history with her Imzadi was another case altogether. She still had deep feelings for William Riker but knew that his career came first and that had never quite set right with Deanna.
"Maybe someday," Deanna would say anytime they were on the subject.
Tasha had always been coy about her relationships with the two. She'd never told either of them about Alfie. She didn't talk much about her occasional one-night stands. And she'd kept Data largely a secret.
"Alright, I'm enacting the Circle of Secrecy," Beverly said as she refilled each of their glasses with the real wine.
The Circle of Secrecy was Beverly's favourite phrase to initiate conversation about their relationships (or lack thereof).
"So?" Beverly said as he raised an eyebrow in Tasha's direction.
Tasha scoffed.
"What?" Tasha asked.
"You shut down every time we talk about relationships. We know about you and Data. And so, we want to know about you and Data," Deanna explained.
"I can't imagine what you two want to know-" Tasha started to say but was cut off by Beverly.
"Everything," the Doctor said as she leaned forward and rested her chin on her fist.
"He's a one-of-a-kind sentient android. The only one in the whole universe," Deanna explained. "We know Data as the sweet but somewhat naïve android, but you know a whole other side of him."
"A side we didn't even know existed," Beverly added.
Tasha was dumbstruck.
"Obviously, you saw something in Data that we didn't realise he had in him," Deanna said.
"Well, a lot of people don't realise he's there," Tasha said, a little stiffer than she intended.
"You're right," Beverly agreed.
There was a pause.
"Tasha I'm sorry if this question sounds insensitive, but we know you don't like to get too attached in relationships," Deanna said.
Tasha felt her stomach drop. She understood exactly where Deanna was going.
"Have you considered that you feel comfortable with Data because he's…well," Deanna wasn't exactly sure how to phrase it.
"Look, if you think I'm doing this as some kind of safety net because I'm scared of commitment you've got it all wrong," Tasha snapped.
Deanna could sense she had touched a nerve. There was anger radiating from Tasha. She regretted her words, but she was genuinely concerned Tasha had different goals than Data.
She'd heard the comments, especially from the security ensigns under her command, about their thoughts on Data. There were many times that she had wanted to set them straight in regard to their crude ideas.
She understood Deanna and Beverly weren't asking for the same reasons, but something inside compelled her to make clear some things about their relationship.
Noting Tasha's clenched jaw, Beverly felt it was necessary to try and walk back their concern.
"Tasha, I'm sorry. I guess we're just worried about you and Mr Data. I don't want either of you to get hurt because he's like a child and you like to keep things casual," Beverly said inelegantly.
Tasha couldn't help it. She felt her face flush. Her throat grew tight. She closed her eyes and breathed deep, trying to keep herself from crying.
"Does everyone on this ship think I'm so unfeeling? Incapable of anything other than a casual lay and a 'thanks here's the door'?" Tasha asked.
Her tone wasn't anger - it was one of hurt.
"No!" Beverly said as she grabbed Tasha's hand.
"Of course not. It's evident you care a great deal for him," Deanna added as she grabbed Tasha's other hand.
"He's not as naïve as we all assumed. I was as guilty as any of us. But he's not. He understands more than we realise. People see him as an unfeeling machine, but he cares so much about this ship and everyone on it," Tasha said with a sniffle.
Beverly and Deanna nodded in support as Tasha went on.
"His rank isn't honorary. He earned it. He feels things. Just because he doesn't show it, doesn't mean he isn't affected by the things people say about him - when they call him a robot or the tin man, when people say his eyes are unsettling, or that he's annoying," Tasha went on. "He hears all of it. And he's so used to it because people have been doing it to him his whole life."
Tasha nodded to both women that she was better. She pulled her hands back and paused to take a sip of her wine.
"He feels. He has dreams. And desires. Believe me, he's had plenty of past experiences, but no one has ever taken into account what he wants. They just used him like some sentient sex toy and then left when their curiosity was sated," Tasha went on bitterly.
Wide-eyed, Deanna and Beverly exchanged a look of surprise.
"Which is really a shame because he's…well…he's really great at making you feel like you're the only person in the whole world," she said softly.
"Tasha, I'm very sorry that I upset you. And I'm sorry that I didn't see clearly before," Deanna apologised.
"For what it's worth, I'm sorry too. I'm happy you're happy," Beverly said.
Tasha waved them off.
"Sorry for getting so worked up. There's just been the gossip and there's still a lot of people that don't see him as a person," Tasha explained. "I guess I get a little defensive about it."
"Well, then I'm glad he's got you sticking up for him," Beverly smiled.
She poured another glass of wine for the three women.
"To healthy relationships and love," Deanna said as she raised her glass in a toast.
"I'll second that," Beverly said as she joined the toast.
Tasha smiled and raised her glass. They clinked their glasses together and all took another drink.
The anger she felt earlier was beginning to melt away.
"So when you leave, are you going back to your place or his?" Beverly winked.
Tasha shot the Doctor a look. Beverly shrugged casually.
Beverly's openness had shocked Tasha when she first joined the Enterprise. When she had first read the Doctor's personnel file, she had written her off as likely to be maternal-only, straight-laced, and not one to be interested in the extracurricular poker nights.
She quickly came to learn just how wrong she had been. Beverly was surprisingly open, vivacious, and more than just maternal. She was a great parent, but she knew how to take care of herself too. She'd coped with the tragic loss of her husband well and had adjusted to life with Jack.
Tasha considered, briefly, that perhaps it might do her some good to talk with Beverly about her own loss of Alfie.
Someday, but not tonight. She thought. Tonight was for the ladies.
"I would be lying if I said I wasn't curious. You seem to be much happier since, well-" Beverly trailed off.
"You mean since I got drunk on polywater and tried to seduce a senior officer?" Tasha retorted.
Her sarcasm had returned and that was a good sign.
"I'm not really sure 'try' is appropriate since you were successful," Beverly teased.
Tasha felt her face flush. She was still a little embarrassed about how their relationship had come about.
"If you must know, I am going back to my own quarters. He's working on something with Geordi tonight," Tasha said.
Beverly looked a little dejected at her answer.
"C'mon, I'm a single woman on a Starship. Throw me a bone," Beverly said as she threw her arms out.
"Fine. He monitors my vital signs and he's marvellous about seeing to my needs. After the incident with the Captain and the Entity he took really good care of me," Tasha explained.
"What do you mean by that?" Beverly asked with a smirk.
"Submersion in warm water for the purpose of increasing circulation to ease muscle pain, proper nutritional consumption, and a sleeping posture that will not irritate your wounds," she said in the best Data impression she could muster.
Deanna and Beverly laughed.
"AKA a hot bath, a nice meal, and extra pillows," Tasha summarised before adding mischievously, "I'll also say that his hands are a work of art and he knows exactly what to do with them."
"You did say he was very intuitive," Deanna reminded her.
"He seems like he would be," Beverly replied.
Tasha smiled. She understood Deanna's implication but knew that Beverly and Deanna didn't know the half of it.
"He is. He truly is. I don't know why I didn't see him that way sooner," Tasha confessed.
"It sounds wonderful," Deanna said kindly.
"Does he have a brother?" Beverly joked.
The three women laughed.
Two hours later, Tasha had made her way back to her quarters feeling a little tipsy. It wasn't often they drank real alcohol, but occasionally the woman did indulge themselves. It had been a very long week, and Tasha was grateful that Beverly had whipped out the real stuff.
She knew she would pay for it in the morning, but for the moment, she needed a little break.
Setting the 'do not disturb' lock on her quarters, Tasha stepped into her lavvy and turned on the tap.
Stepping back into her main room, she kicked her boots off and padded across the carpet into her bedroom. She grabbed her dressing gown and made her way back to the lavvy where steam was beginning to accumulate.
Tasha grabbed a clean towel and hung it on the ring by the shower.
She wiped the steam off the mirror and took in her appearance. Rosy cheeks and bleary eyes from the alcohol aside, she did look tired.
Sighing, she realised she also felt exhausted.
Sleeping on the camp cot had been a far cry from her own comfortable bed. She could feel it in her back. The tension between her shoulder blades had been irritating her all day.
Tasha stepped out of her uniform and toward the shower. She slipped on the wet floor but caught herself with the safety grip handle on the wall.
She sat down on the floor and leaned back against the wall. She tried to focus her vision, but the room was moving ever so slightly.
Tasha realised she was perhaps a wee bit more intoxicated than she had initially thought.
After a moment, she stood up and found her balance. She turned off the tap, understanding it wouldn't be safe to step into the shower at this time.
She slipped into her dressing gown and cinched it around her waist. Tasha went back to the main room and grabbed her PADD and combadge.
She went to the window and sat down on her sofa. Her body was tired, but her mind was wide awake. Tasha opened the latest Sherlock Holmes story she was working through. She had made some progress in her research for the holonovel she was designing with Geordi for Data. Both Geordi and Worf were helping her work through the various Holmes stories, but there was still a long way to go.
Tasha tried for several minutes to read, but found the bright light was irritating her eyes.
She turned off the PADD and set it down on the table. She leaned back and closed her eyes. She knew she should go to sleep, but she wasn't tired.
Suddenly, an idea popped into her head.
"Lieutenant Yar to Commander Data," she said tapping her combadge.
"Yes, Lieutenant?" Data replied a moment later.
"I've got something you should take a look at," Tasha said cryptically.
"Understood. Where?" Data responded.
Really, Data? So much for subtlety. She thought to herself.
She instructed him to meet her at the turbolift nearest her quarters. She knew that when he would reach it and not find her, he would come looking for her in her quarters.
Tasha turned around and sat on her knees. Resting her head on the window, she looked out into the stars. The only thing she didn't like about Data's quarters was that it lacked a window.
She loved staring out at the stars.
When she had been alone on Turkana, she had always stared up at the sky and told herself she would escape.
Now, being out in the sea of stars, she liked to look at them fondly and think of how far she had come.
There was a small beep as her door chimed.
"Lieutenant Yar?" Data's voice came through her combadge.
She verbally commanded the computer to open the door. It slid open and Data stood in the doorway, the light from the corridor behind him as he observed the darkened room.
Tasha turned around and smiled at him.
"Hey," she greeted.
Data took in his surroundings. The room was dark, Tasha was in her dressing gown, and she appeared to be intoxicated. He quickly deduced her hail had, in fact, been a ruse.
"Have you consumed alcohol?" Data inquired.
"Yeah. Had some wine," she replied lazily.
Data stepped over to her replicator and requested a glass of cool water. He picked up the glass and stepped over to the couch. Data sat down next to her.
"Please, you should drink this," he said as he carefully held out the glass to her.
Tasha took hold of the glass and took a sloppy sip. She tried to set it down on the table, but it slipped out of her hand. Water ran across the glass tabletop. Data managed to grab her PADD before the water reached it.
Tasha giggled.
She got up and stumbled to the lavvy. She grabbed the towel she had brought in earlier and turned to find Data right behind her.
She jumped at the shock.
Damn he was fast! She thought to herself.
Data put his hands on her arms and looked down at her with concern.
"I think I had a little more than I intended to," she said sheepishly.
"I will clean up the water. I believe you should lie down," Data suggested.
"Are you going to join me?" Tasha asked as she reached up to tap his nose playfully.
"Please go lie down," Data said in a polite but firm voice.
He directed her to the doorway of her bedroom. Reluctantly, she sat down on the bed as Data cleaned the spilled water off the table.
A moment later, he emerged with a second glass. He sat down next to her and held the glass for her as she took a drink.
"And now I think you should sleep," Data said as he set the glass down on the nightstand next to her bed.
"Thank you," she replied as she put her hand on his chest.
She ran her hand down his chest and stomach. Data grabbed her wrist before she could go any further and pulled it away from him.
"Tasha, you need to go to sleep," he said sternly.
"I'm not sleepy," she protested as she blinked up at him.
"It is time for bed," he replied.
"Fine," she said stubbornly.
Data let go of her wrist and gave her a small nod.
"Thank y-" Data started to say but was cut off as Tasha lunged at him for a drunken kiss.
Data let it go for a moment but when her hands dropped from the sides of face to the zipper on his uniform, he abruptly stopped her.
"No, Tasha," he said as he pushed her away.
"I want you, Data," she said pleadingly.
"How would you say it? I am flattered, but it would not be appropriate at this time," he replied.
Tasha fell back against her pillow and groaned. She knew he was right.
"But I will stay here with you if that will help you to sleep," he said as he slid next to her and pulled her in close.
Tasha relaxed back into him as she felt the rise and fall of his chest with each artificial breath.
"Computer, lights," Data instructed as he brushed the top of her head with a kiss.
"You know you take very good care of me," Tasha said with a small yawn.
"I assure you, Lieutenant, that is my intention," Data replied.
"I love you," she said as she snuggled against him.
Data felt like his breathing stopped.
She had finally said it.
He suspected she may not remember it in the morning. And, truth be told, that left him feeling a little uncertain. But there in the dark, with her next to him, he allowed her words to envelop him like a warm blanket.
The next morning, Tasha awoke feeling more than a wee bit hungover. Her head hurt and she was grateful she was on a starship with no natural light. Data was already awake, sitting next to her, tapping on his PADD as he read through the initial security team report from the Edo planet.
"What time is it?" Tasha asked as she rolled over.
"It is 05:00 hours. You have been asleep for five hours and forty-one minutes. You should resume sleeping as your body requires additional rest," Data instructed.
"I think I'm too hungover for that," Tasha confessed as she lay back and stared at the ceiling.
Her eyes began to adjust to the darkness, and she felt a small wave of nausea. Breathing carefully, she managed to keep the feeling in check. She had no intention of vomiting all over Data.
"There is a glass of water next to you. You are dehydrated," he said intuitively.
Tasha smiled as she reached for the water. Her throat was scratchy.
"I really do think you should try to get more sleep," Data suggested.
Tasha shook her head.
"Can't," she said.
She took another quick sip and returned the glass to the table.
"I have an early meeting with Commander Riker on the shore leave scheduling," Tasha explained.
"I thought that was finalised yesterday?" Data inquired.
"I overlooked someone," Tasha confessed.
Data's neural net began to fire rapidly.
Could it be? He thought to himself.
Data had never pressed the issue, but he had always been left out of the shore leave rotation in order to command the Enterprise while the crew relaxed. He knew that he didn't need rest and he surmised it was his early years that had conditioned him into placing the needs of Starfleet above his own personal desires.
"Oh. It is fortunate you caught the matter," Data said.
"Indeed. Because I suspect this person is in desperate need of a little R & R and that he wouldn't have said anything otherwise," Tasha replied as she gave Data a knowing look.
There was a sudden, unknown sensation that gripped Data.
He felt overcome with an indescribable emotion. His chest felt heavy. His optical receptors were clouded by an unfamiliar moisture that began to leak down his face.
"Data?" Tasha said, alarmed as she turned to him and grabbed the sides of his face.
"I am confused," he said in distress.
"Tell me what's happening," Tasha instructed as she stroked his hair.
"I feel joy, but I believe I am crying. I do not understand," Data admitted, his eyes wide with fear.
Tasha wiped the yellow tears from his face with her thumb and smiled.
"Sometimes when humans are overwhelmed with emotion we tend to cry," she explained, "even if that emotion is happiness."
Data sniffled as he contemplated her statement.
"I'm sorry I overlooked you," Tasha said apologetically. "I'm so sorry I've overlooked you on every one of the shore leave schedules before now."
"You're the first person to notice," Data said with a small smile as he took her hand.
"Data, if anyone ever does something like that again, promise me you'll speak up? You deserve the same rights as the rest of us, organic or not," Tasha said as she gave his hand a small squeeze.
Data nodded.
Tasha gave him a quick peck on the cheek and ordered the computer to turn the lights on at a dim level.
She rolled out of bed and made her way over to the built-in shelving that held a clean uniform, fresh from the garment reprocessor.
She pulled out the uniform and set it on the shelf. Grabbing her hairbrush, she began to comb and style her hair using the mirror on the wall.
"So, what would you like to do with your shore leave?" Tasha asked as she reached into her top shelf and pulled out a toothbrush and clean flannel.
She tapped the button and the countertop slid back to reveal a sink.
"I am unsure," Data stated as he stood up. "Will we be permitted to take shore leave together?"
"I intend to ensure we are scheduled for the same rotation," Tasha grinned as she began to brush her teeth.
Data tilted his head to the side as he began to process the information he had read regarding the Edo planet. The initial away team had noted the planet was a paradise with exceptional flora, warm natural springs, a large ocean with beautiful atolls, and a culture that valued physical activity, leisure, and healthy living.
He had also read the planet boasted an environment suited for many athletic pursuits including rock climbing, diving, a game similar to tennis called 'yatzro', and numerous hiking trails.
"I believe there are a number of activities available that you would find enjoyable," Data stated.
Tasha rinsed out her mouth and put her toothbrush back into its sanitisation chamber. Wiping her face with the flannel, she shook her head.
"I want to know what you want to do," she insisted.
Data's mouth formed a small 'oh' as he realised she intended for their shore leave activities to be his choice.
"Are you certain?" Data asked.
Tasha nodded as dabbed a little mascara on her eyelashes. She didn't wear much makeup while on duty, but she liked to put a little on each morning.
Data came up behind her and gave her a hug.
"Well then, if you are certain, it will take me some time to plan an itinerary," Data explained.
"That's more like it," Tasha replied with a smile.
There was a brief pause. Data didn't let go of her. She could see in the mirror he looked nervous.
"Everything OK?" Tasha asked as she turned to face him.
Data looked away and then back to her as if he were uncertain.
"Do you remember what you said to me last night?" Data asked her.
He didn't give her a chance to respond. Doubt grew in his mind and he felt uncharacteristically insecure.
"I do not wish to pressure you. If you do not remember, it is not a matter of importance. I was merely curious about the effects of human memory under the influence of-" Data said rapidly before Tasha pulled him down and pressed her lips to his.
After a moment she pulled away.
"Of course, I remember," Tasha said. "And I meant what I said. I love you, Data."
If androids could blush, Tasha was certain that's what Data was doing.
It had been a busy morning. Data had been in main Engineering with Geordi planning a schedule to overhaul the computer system for a routine cleaning during the shore leave. It meant they had spent most of the morning crawling through the Jefferies tubes pinpointing locations that were most in need of the cleaning.
They would never be able to complete a full sweep during the leave, but they could get 40-45% of the system taken care of during the week.
Tasha had finalised the rotating leave schedule with Commander Riker and had been relieved that he'd acquiesced to her request for Data to be included.
In fact, Riker hadn't even hesitated.
"I think that's a great idea," Riker had said.
She had thanked him and headed off to meet Data in the canteen for lunch. Since discovering taste, Data had looked forward to meals.
Sitting down across from him, Tasha was giddy with excitement.
"It's all set," Tasha informed him.
"Excellent," Data replied before he bit into a lime wedge.
He scoured up his face as the sour juice made contact with sensors on his tongue.
Tasha bit back a laugh.
"Ughlh," Data said as he shuddered.
He licked his lips as he considered the flavour.
"I have observed you consume limes on several occasions. Yet, you do not have the same reaction," Data inquired.
"Yeah, they're better with things rather than on their own," Tasha explained.
"Most interesting," Data said as he licked the lime and shuddered again.
"Do you mind if I join you?" Worf asked as he approached their table.
"Not at all," Data said as he motioned for Worf to grab a chair.
"Thank you, Commander," Worf acknowledged as he set his tray down on the table.
Tasha sliced off a piece of the fruit she was holding and held it out to Data.
"Here, try this. It's a Mvrenvian pear," Tasha said.
Data took the piece of bright green fruit and smelled it. He then popped it in his mouth. She watched his reaction as his face registered the different flavours.
"Sweet, yet spicy," Data said as he evaluated the flavour of the strange fruit.
"Yeah, they're fruity but with a little heat," Tasha said as she took a bite.
"I have noticed that you have a preference for spicy foods," Data said.
Tasha and Worf exchanged a glance.
"You could say that again," Worf said dryly.
The two friends frequently enjoyed challenging each other to hotter and hotter foods during their meals.
"What about you, Data? Do you think you like it?" Tasha asked.
Data cocked his head to the side as he considered her inquiry.
"I believe I will require additional information before I can make that determination," Data said honestly.
"I have noticed we are assigned to the same rotation for shore leave. Ensign Fowler reported there was an excellent spot for rock climbing near the main Edo settlement. Would you like to join me?" Worf suggested.
The offer was very tempting. Worf was her best friend and the idea of spending the day on a good climb sounded like a great way to spend shore leave.
But Tasha remembered her promise to Data. They would only have three days together and she really wanted to spend them with Data.
This was his first shore leave and she had every intention of spending it with him doing the things he wanted to do.
Before she could respond, Data spoke.
"I think that would be a good idea. You should go on the climb," Data said.
Tasha shot Data a look.
"Are you sure?" she asked him, feeling a little uncomfortable.
"Certainly," Data replied simply. "May I suggest the first day of the trip as it appears that is when the weather will be most favourable for climbing."
"Do you care to join us?" Worf asked.
"No, thank you," Data replied.
"How long is the climb expected to take?" Tasha asked Worf.
"I would estimate three and a half hours to four hours if we do two ninety-minute ascents with a break in between," Worf explained.
Tasha felt a little dejected. This was supposed to be their holiday and Data had just sold away half a day.
"Please, Tasha. I would like you to do this," Data explained.
She trusted him so she agreed to join Worf.
"Have you read the report on their laws?" Tasha asked Worf before she took another bite.
Worf nodded.
The initial report had indicated there was no crime present on the planet. The laws were very straightforward. In fact, they seemed to be exceptionally brief and primarily focused on respect for each other and the planet itself.
"They seem to be peaceful people," Worf said as he stabbed his fork into the replicated Rokeg blood pie on his tray.
They finished the rest of their meal in relative silence as they were due in the Observation Lounge at 13:00 for a briefing with the other senior officers.
After returning their trays to the replicator, they three made their way up to the Observation Lounge where they joined Captain Picard, Doctor Crusher, Commander Riker, Counsellor Troi, Lieutenant La Forge, and Chief O'Brien.
"As I'm sure you are all aware by now, Commander Riker and Lieutenant Yar have finalised the schedule for shore leave rotation. Chief O'Brien has established the transport schedule. And finally, Commander Data and Lieutenant La Forge have put together an itinerary for some routine maintenance during the week," Captain Picard explained.
"We'll arrive at the planet in approximately four hours and eighteen minutes," Data informed them.
"Upon arrival, we'll beam down an away team to conduct a more thorough evaluation of the site for shore leave. Commander Riker, you will lead the away team," Picard ordered.
Beverly decided this was her best chance to push again for the shore leave.
"If the site is not suitable, may I recommend that we set a course for Starbase 28. The crew needs a rest. I recommend Starbase 28 as the next best and closest option," Beverly suggested.
Picard nodded in agreement.
"Yes, that's a good suggestion, Doctor. We are in need of shore leave. We are also desperately in need of a maintenance overhaul on Transporter Room two. Why was this left off the itinerary?" Picard said as he noted the conspicuous absence of the overhaul on Geordi's report.
"I don't have the manpower to overhaul the transporter room and complete the routine system cleaning. And right now, that cleaning is the more pressing issue," Geordi explained.
Picard sat back in his chair as he pondered Geordi's statement.
"I'm assigning Lieutenant Anderson to the Bridge for the Alpha rotation. Data, you will still be in Command of the Enterprise, but I'd like you down in the transporter room two working on the overhaul. You should be able to complete it in that timeframe," Picard ordered.
Data looked at Tasha. She was trying to keep her emotions in check, but her lips had grown thin, and her eyes betrayed the fury that was inside her.
Tasha's words from earlier replayed in his head.
"Data, if anyone ever does something like that again, promise me you'll speak up?"
"Captain, I will be on leave during the Alpha rotation," Data said simply.
Tasha wanted to cheer. She settled for a small smile.
Picard leaned forward, taken aback by Data's words. Commander Riker was seated at the opposite end of the long table. Picard met his gaze and followed his First Officer's eyes as Riker discreetly shifted his gaze to Tasha.
In an instance, Picard understood.
"Of course. I see," he said with a short nod. "We'll schedule another time in the future."
Data breathed a sigh of relief. A part of him was concerned that his protest would anger Captain Picard. He was comforted in knowing the Captain respected his right to personal time.
The next day, Data and Tasha joined the away team led by Commander Riker to evaluate the planet's suitability for shore leave.
True to the initial report, they found the planet was indeed full of lush vegetation, blue skies, and the people were open and kind- if not a little too touchy for Tasha's taste.
Initially, the Edo had been leery of Data.
"Pallor is a sign of weakness. It comes from a lack of sun and can indicate illness," one of the men said as the greeting party stepped back from Data.
"Ah! My bioplast skin colour is not an indication of illness. In fact, I am immune to disease and illness. I am an android," Data said as he stepped forward in an effort to reassure the Edo.
They were not convinced.
"You appear quite slim my lithe friend," the man said as he circled Data.
"Perhaps a demonstration would ease your fears?" Data suggested.
He motioned for Commander Riker to step forward.
Data gripped Commander Riker and lifted him above his head.
"Does this suffice?" Data inquired as he held the grinning Riker above him.
After his little stunt, they had been fascinated with Data.
It had greatly amused Tasha as several Edo proceeded to touch him as they eyed him with wonder.
"You are unlike anything we have seen," one of them said as she held up his hand and compared it to her own.
"I am an android," Data stated.
"Your skin seems to sparkle. How have you achieved this wonderous affect?" A man asked as he eyed Data with curiosity.
"Your eyes are a most unique shade, not unlike the starfish that populate the reef," one of the other women exclaimed.
"I am an android," Data repeated uncomfortably.
"What is an android?" The same woman asked.
"That may take some time to explain," Data replied as two of them led Data over to a bench.
A short time later, Data had managed to get away and caught up with Tasha as she ran some routine security scans of the colony.
"That was a most unusual experience," Data said as he came up next to her.
Tasha was running a scan of the main colony building with her security tricorder.
She laughed.
"It was unpleasant," Data went on.
"For a moment I thought they were going to jump you," Tasha teased.
"I do not enjoy being touched like that. It is quite uncomfortable," Data said seriously.
Tasha immediately stopped the scan and turned to look at him.
"Data, are you OK?" she asked as she noted his posture.
"I…I find I am struggling to put words to…I am confused," Data said.
Tasha grew concerned. He was practically incoherent. His eyes were flipping back and forth at a rapid speed and she could see the signs that his neural net was in overdrive.
She put her tricorder into its holster and took a step toward him.
"Data, honey, look at me," she said.
Data closed his eyes and tried to shut out the memories that were replaying in his head.
He recoiled when Tasha reached for his hand.
"It's me," she said in a soothing tone.
He was breathing with short, shallow breaths as he worked to shut down the memory engrams that had activated.
They were his oldest memories.
Dark memories.
Memories from a time he wished to forget. The only reason he had never deleted the engrams was he felt he would never be safe if he did.
No, he needed to remember the names and faces of everyone at Starfleet that had done this to him.
Two of the Edo came running past them.
"Happiness and good health to you!" the pair called as they jogged past them.
Data looked away but gave a small wave. Tasha waved and smiled but kept hold of Data's hand.
As soon as the Edo had passed them, Tasha took Data's hand and guided him away from the path and into the grass. Tasha led him to a small bench.
"Someone hurt you," she said bluntly.
Data opened his mouth to reply to her statement, but she cut him off.
"And don't tell me you are an android that can't be hurt. We both know that isn't the case," Tasha added.
Data opened his eyes and looked away.
There was so much to say. He did not know where to begin.
"I am….processing….many memories. It hurts," Data said in a strained voice as he brought his hand to his chest.
"What can I do to help?" Tasha asked as she took his hands in her own and set them on her lap.
"1213 days, seventeen hours, forty-four minutes, and nine seconds," Data said.
Tasha considered if she should call for Geordi. Data was growing warm.
"Blue skies, smiling at me. Nothing but blue skies, do I see," Data sang softly as he began to rock back and forth.
Panic started to grow inside her as she watched him. Feeling she had no other choice, she decided she needed to call Geordi.
"Lieutenant Yar to Lieutenant La Forge. Can you come to the main garden to meet me and Commander Data," Tasha said as she tapped her combadge.
"On my way," Geordi acknowledged.
"Noticing the days, hurrying by," Data continued to sing as he began rocking faster.
"Data, look at me," Tasha encouraged.
"I am Data. I am an android. I am not capable of-" he muttered.
He was spiralling.
"Who did this to you?" Tasha asked, her blue eyes wide with fear.