Author's Note: Thank you for your continued support with this series. All of your reviews, likes, kudos, and messages are wonderful!
It's been a long road (don't me please) but it ends with some *nice* fluff.
I'm dropping this chapter and the next together. It was intended to be one chapter. However, it got to be quite extensive, so I divided it into two.
When they get to be over the 10k/12k line I try to split them up.
However, there wasn't a great spot to break so please dive into the next chapter stat! Mostly fluff and friendship in these chapters.
But now, the *ALMOST* conclusion to this particular arc of "The Complication."
So what's next on our roadmap?
We're going to see Angel One, an original adventure that introduces a romantic interest for Geordi, the visit of Worf's parents, and Haven including the introduction of Lwaxana Troi.
Content Warning: This chapter contains scenes of violence as our beloved crew works to help defend this sector from a Cardassian advancement. This also includes the conclusion of the hearing and therefore themes of workplace harassment.
This story is AU. Please suspend your disbelief re: canon for a fun wee character cameo in this instalment.
As always, if you like my works or want to stay up to date with art, comics, or just like chatting about the fandom you can like/follow at or TheTartanTart on Twitter.
"Bridge to Captain Picard," Deanna's voice came across the communicator. "The Shepard has dropped out of warp."
Captain Picard was in his Ready Room with Commander Riker.
For the last hour, they had been waiting for Admiral Walsh's ship the USS Shepard to arrive at the rendezvous point.
They had already been joined by the smaller USS Lakota where Geordi, Worf, and Data were currently aboard retrofitting their holo-imagers to enact Worf's plan.
"Counsellor, please hail the Lakota. Once our team is finished, we'll send them over to the Shepard to get started on their holo-imagers," Captain Picard responded.
They were close to Starbase 118.
Close enough that they hoped stopping would set the Cardassians on edge and further aid in making it appear that a fleet of ships was approaching.
Worf's plan was to utilise the holo-imagers on the three ships to make it appear that there were other ships present when the dropped out of warp. The effect wouldn't last long, but they desperately hoped it would be long enough to frighten the Cardassians.
Thanks to Tasha's false communications, they had already managed to make the Cardassians think there were numerous ships en route to the area.
Captain Picard was hopeful that in building from that, they would be able to avoid a firefight.
The sooner the Cardassians left the base, the more likely it was they would not attempt to transport hostages off the Starbase.
However, Captain Picard still knew that there was the possibility of having to open fire. There was no guarantee the plan would work.
The risk of error was high.
And if it did come down to a firefight, he would be in the difficult position of having to possibly fire upon ships holding Federation hostages.
"Eggshells," Riker commented from the sofa in the Captain's Ready Room.
"Huh?" Picard asked as he was pulled from his thoughts by Riker's comment.
"Treading lightly," Riker clarified. "We don't know what we're walking into."
"Right you are, Number One," Picard replied.
Commander Riker's statement hit on more than one fear.
Captain Picard didn't know what they would find regarding the Cardassians.
Would they flee or fight?
More troublesome, he didn't know what they would find regarding Tasha Yar.
"Number One, as soon as the Cardassian ships have left the area, I would like to leave you in Command on the Enterprise," Captain Picard. "And I'd like to go down with the search and rescue team."
Captain Picard knew that he would need Riker on the Enterprise in case the Cardassians came back with reinforcements.
Commander Riker had been afraid of this.
"I can't allow that, sir," Riker replied firmly.
Captain Picard leaned forward in his seat and looked hard at his First Officer.
"Your protest is noted," Picard assured him. "But I feel I need to be down there."
"Sir, if the Cardassians come back-" Riker protested.
Captain Picard put up his hand.
"It's not just the unknown of the Cardassian situation," Picard confessed. "We don't know what we're going to encounter during the search and rescue."
Captain Picard sighed heavily.
"And if it is what I fear, then I need to be there," Picard said honestly. "For a friend."
The rest was left unsaid.
Commander Riker understood.
"And Number One, I would like to ask you discreetly who you believe best suited to serve as a temporary Second Officer if necessary?" Captain Picard asked.
Commander Riker exhaled audibly as he weighed the question.
Typically, the next person to fill the role of Second Officer after the Chief of Operations or Chief of Science was the Security Chief.
Although Worf was more than capable of filling the role, if Tasha had, in fact, been killed or injured then Worf would have his hands full.
Geordi was another possibility, but Riker hated the idea of asking him. If something had happened to Tasha, Data would need his best friend more than ever.
"If," Riker said hesitantly. "And I want to stress 'if,' something has happened. I'd move Worf into the role of Security Chief. Appoint Geordi Second Officer and move Chief O'Brien into the spot of Chief Engineer."
"She's probably barricaded in some office with a phaser rifle in hand," Picard said brightly.
"Tasha?" Riker asked.
Commander Riker shook his head.
"I guarantee when we find her, she's going to be up on one of the upper promenade pylons," Riker guessed. "I bet she was the first one to the armoury. She's probably sniped half a battalion worth of Cardassian troops by now."
It took nearly an hour to complete the work on the Shepard.
Once they were completed, the team returned back to the Enterprise.
Data was relieved to be back aboard his own ship.
During the work on the Shepard, Ambassador Walsh had dropped by twice – making snide comments about their progress and lamenting they had 'better not damage his ship.'
Data was concerned that if the Ambassador had made a third attempt, Worf would have disembowelled him.
"He is completely without honour," Worf grumbled as soon as they rematerialised in the Enterprise's transporter room.
Geordi, Data, and Worf made their way to the Bridge and resumed their positions.
"Open a channel to the Shepard and Lakota," Picard ordered.
Worf activated the appropriate channels to hail both vessels.
"Hailing frequencies open, sir," Worf replied a moment later.
"Admiral Walsh, Captain Reading," Picard said, greeting them. "It is absolutely critical that the timing of this plan proceed as planned."
All three ships would need to drop out of warp together.
The Shepard would target the Galor class ship on the starboard side of the starbase.
At the same time, the Enterprise would target the ship on the port side and the Lakota would do the same on the stern.
All three ships would utilise small-yield photon torpedoes intended to frighten, but not seriously damage the ships. In the event it did come to a hostage-situation, they didn't want to risk injuring any possible Federation citizens trapped on the vessels.
"Lieutenant Worf will flood the area with tachyons to disrupt their sensors right after we arrive," Picard explained. "Six minutes after the tachyon dispersal, it is vital that you activate the holo-imager."
On the viewscreen, it was evident Admiral Walsh was displeased.
"I am still sceptical of this idea," Walsh commented.
"Admiral, it is the only option we have available," Picard replied. "Unless you would care to wait seven days for another handful of ships to join us."
"You need not remind me of the stakes," Admiral Walsh hissed. "My own flesh and blood is still on that starbase thanks to you and your crew."
Captain's log Stardate 41594.1. We are racing across the Delta Quadrant to assist in the liberation and rescue of Starbase 118. We expect to encounter eight Galor-class Cardassian warships. We are joined by the USS Shepard and the USS Lakota. Although outnumbered, we are going to attempt a diversionary tactic to make our fleet appear larger. It is a plan that was devised originally by Lieutenant's Worf and Yar – the latter of whom was left at Starbase 118 when we joined the initial fight against the Cardassians.
We picked up two runabouts full of survivors of the attack on Starbase 118 including several officers from the Starbase JAG office. Commander Cameron Elliot led one of the runabouts and informed us that – at least at the time of departure – Lieutenant Yar and Captain Lee Davies, Commander of Starbase 118, were still alive. It is my hope that they, and the other survivors, have managed to last the night.
Data looked across the Bridge.
He could infer from the manner in which young Wesley Crusher was sitting stiffly and the subtle shake of his hands that he was nervous.
"Wesley?" Data asked quietly.
"Sorry, Commander," Wesley said anxiously. "This is, well, this is my first combat mission."
Wesley had recently been offered a field commission to Acting Ensign. He'd spent weeks training with the crew on the holodeck and the Bridge.
As the crew had been cycling through helmsmen during the last forty-eight hours, it happened that Wesley was now on the Bridge. The beta shift helmsman had been injured during the initial fight with the Cardassians. The other two helm officers had already logged more flight hours than they should have, and the other officers were needed in their own positions.
"You have logged nearly two-hundred hours of flight training in the last six weeks. You are both prepared and capable," Data told him. "Lieutenant Yar would not have recommended you for bridge duty if you weren't ready."
Wesley seemed to relax at Data's words.
In truth, Data was also hoping to reassure himself that he was ready.
"Two minutes out, sir," Data advised from the Operations console.
"Shields up, red alert," Riker order.
Worf and Data activated their respective controls.
The klaxons began to sound, signalling that the ship was at red alert as everyone braced themselves to drop out of warp and into a possible battle.
"All stop!" Picard ordered as they dropped out of warp.
On target, Worf immediately fired at the first Cardassian vessel.
"The Cardassian blockade is powering weapons," Data advised as he read the sensor reports.
A moment later, the Enterprise was rocked as two of the Cardassian vessels hit them with disruptor blasts.
"We must wait another four minutes and forty-three seconds before we can initiate the holo-imager," Data advised.
Another round of disruptor fire hit the ship and shook the Bridge.
"Shields are holding," Worf announced.
"Sir, one of the Cardassian ships is breaking formation," Wesley observed.
Data watched on his operational sensors as one of the Galor-class ships broke from its position and took up an offensive position overhead.
A second later, a larger blast impact hit the Enterprise.
"They've targeted our nacelles, sir," Worf explained.
Commander Riker tapped his combadge.
"Engineering, report?" the First Officer asked.
The Cardassian vessels fired another round of blasts at the Enterprise.
"Engineering?" Riker repeated.
There was a tense pause.
"We've taken a big hit down here, sir," Geordi replied. "Another few hits like that and we could be looking at a radiation leak."
"Two minutes and fourteen seconds to optimal tachyon dispersal," Data informed them.
The next hit was aimed directly at the saucer section. It rattled the ship.
"Sir, that was a direct hit on our saucer section," Worf advised. "Crews are inbound."
"Casualties on decks seven through twelve," Data reported.
Captain Picard had been afraid of this.
"Reroute power from weapons to shields," Picard ordered.
"Sir?" Worf asked to clarify.
"Do it," Picard demanded.
He could understand Worf's concern. Rerouting the power to the shields from the weapons system would mean, if it came to it, there would be approximately two minutes of downtime before they could fire again.
If their plan with the holo-imager didn't work, it would leave the Enterprise at a tactical disadvantage.
However, Captain Picard also knew that if the Cardassians were targeting the saucer section their goal was to target lives rather than strategic locations.
Decks seven through twelve were residential quarters for the officers and their families. Jean-Luc Picard was not about to risk further loss of life.
"Fifteen seconds to optimal tachyon dispersal," Data announced.
Captain Picard ordered Worf to open a channel to the other ships.
When the time came, he notified them to activate the holo-imager programme.
On cue, holographic ships began to appear as if they were dropping out of warp. Artificial ships began to appear around them including the Galaxy-class USS Yamato.
The Cardassians ceased fire.
"And now we wait," Picard said.
"Let's hope it's enough," Riker whispered.
"C'mon," Picard muttered as he watched the viewscreen.
Worf gripped the top of the Tactical panel hard enough that he nearly cracked the edge.
From the helm, Wesley was mesmerised by the tension of it all.
Immediately to his left, Data's artificial respiratory system paused while he waited anxiously in hope that their plan would succeed.
And from her position next to the Captain, Deanna could sense all of it – the overwhelming mix of apprehension and adrenaline threatening to bubble over.
In a flash, two of the Galor-class ships broke from the blockade and took off at warp.
As soon as the first two ships broke formation, the rest began to follow – fleeing the area at their maximum speed.
A cheer erupted on the Bridge from Acting Ensign Crusher.
From the moment it left his mouth, Wesley realised everyone else had remained composed. He quickly clamped his hand down over his mouth and muttered an apology to the Captain and crew.
"We don't usually whoop and holler on the Bridge," Picard said sternly.
Wesley sat back down in his seat.
"But in this case, I believe it is permissible," Picard said, reassuring him. "Besides, I believe we all share in your sentiment, Mr Crusher."
From across the Bridge, Data gave Wesley a small smile before turning back to his own console.
"Sir, I'm reading a mix of life signs at the base including Cardassian life signs," Data stated.
Commander Riker turned to Captain Picard.
"It appears the Cardassians left in such a hurry they didn't even take their own people back with them," Riker said.
"Which means they've likely not taken hostages either," Picard said, finishing Riker's train of thought.
"And that we will likely face resistance on the ground," Worf added.
Data whipped around in his chair.
"Request permission to join the away team," Data asked eagerly.
Captain Picard nodded.
"I'll join you," Picard said.
Captain Picard jumped out of his seat and adjusted his uniform shirt.
"You have the Bridge, Number One," Picard ordered as he strolled toward the lift.
"Captain, if there are armed Cardassians left down there-" Riker began to protest.
"I'll take full responsibility if I'm shot," Picard retorted before the lift doors closed.
"Captain! Captain wait," a voice called down the corridor.
Commander Elliot came running out of the Observation Lounge.
"Commander," Picard said. "Commander Riker can see to anything you require. At the moment, I am preparing to beam down to the planet."
"I know," Elliot replied. "I'd like to join you."
Captain Picard looked at Commander Elliot in disbelief.
"Sir, I know where the other survivors were hiding," Elliot argued.
"Commander, it is likely we will encounter heavy resistance from the remaining Cardassian troops that were abandoned," Data cautioned.
Elliot nodded in understanding.
"I want to help," Elliot said seriously.
When they rematerialised in the transporter room of Starbase 118, Worf quickly dispatched the Cardassian soldier that was at the transporter console before he could alert anyone to their presence.
A moment later, a second batch of Enterprise personnel stepped off the transporter pad.
Two security personnel remained behind with Ensign Isaacs as they continued to beam down reinforcements, repair techs, medical staff, and search teams.
Worf took point as they worked their way down the corridor to the Operations Centre.
Data's keen eyes noticed the scorch marks from the disruptor and phaser blasts that marred the walls and floor of the base. The emergency lighting was flickering, casting an eerie glow on the darkened Starbase.
In line with Cardassian tradition, the lighting level of the base had been reduced and Data noted a sharp increase in the ambient temperature.
It was clear that the battle to take the Operations Centre had been an intense one.
As they passed by a small alcove, Data noticed three Cardassian bodies on the ground. A quick tricorder reading determined there were no life signs.
At the end of the corridor sat the main door to the Operations Centre.
The first landing party took up positions on opposite sides of the doorway – Data, Geordi, and Captain Picard on one side with Worf, Chief O'Brien, and Ensign Jae on the other.
Worf activated the door and the team filed in quickly with their phasers drawn.
Inside, they found a handful of Cardassian troops who surrendered immediately.
"Mr Worf, secure the Cardassians," Picard ordered. "Ensign Jae, Data, get these people free."
There were several officers from Starbase 118 that had been restrained along the wall.
"Captain Picard, thank you, sir," a woman said as he helped her to her feet.
Captain Picard noted the pips on her collar designating a rank of Commander.
"Commander Moira Gore, sir," she said as she rubbed her wrists to return feeling in them. "First Officer."
"Geordi, Chief, get these systems back up and running. Prioritise communications," Picard ordered.
Commander Gore filled Captain Picard in on the situation – including what they had learned from the Cardassians holding them.
The Operations Centre had been one of the last portions of the Bridge to fall.
"We've got pockets of survivors trapped throughout the base," Gore explained. "We've also likely got casualties scattered in these areas as well."
"Was the fighting that bad?" Picard questioned.
"In some areas, yes," Gore answered before adding. "But we know they also released Saark gas in a number of pockets to drive out people that were hiding."
Captain Picard was horrified.
The use of chemical agents had been reported, but Picard was mortified to learn of their use against a Starbase where civilians were present.
"And from what we've heard from the Bajorans, some of them would rather face the gas than Cardassian occupation," Gore said darkly.
She shook her head.
"It means there's going to be bodies out there," she sighed. "And until we have scanners and transporters back online, it's going to mean searching the old-fashioned way."
While Miles and the engineering team got to work on restoring base functions and communications, Captain Picard set off with a team to begin search and rescue for the survivors.
"Come along, Lieutenant La Forge," Picard said as he picked up a phaser rifle.
"Sir, shouldn't I stay and help get the base's systems back online?" Geordi asked.
"We need you," Picard replied. "With the heat, our tricorders won't function properly. If we've got people trapped, every second counts."
With Commander Elliot as their guide, the team set off down to deck thirty-one in search of the 'base camp' Jefferies tube junction where the survivors had attempted to hide.
As soon as they reached the corridor, Ensign Jae noticed a canister on the ground.
"Sir?" she said as she visually examined the object.
"Saark gas," Data advised.
He cast a quick glance over to Geordi.
"I'm not getting any readings showing anyone in the area," Geordi replied.
They continued down the corridor until Geordi suddenly stopped.
"I'm picking up signs of people down this Jefferies tube," Geordi said, indicating to the wall. "About four metres in."
Data worked quickly to pull off the access panel.
"Whoa, maybe you should let someone else go," Geordi said as he put his hand out to stop Data.
Captain Picard understood Geordi's meaning.
"I'll go," he offered.
If Tasha's body were in that tube, it would be better that he find her rather than Data.
Reluctantly, Captain Picard crawled into the Jefferies tube. With his torch in hand, he made his way down the darkened tube.
As he got closer, Captain Picard recognised the baggy, rustic clothing of Bajoran civilians. There appeared to be a group of twelve of them crammed into the Jefferies tube.
Captain Picard reflected back on Commander Gore's comment.
Had they chosen to stay put, embracing the toxin as their preferred option over the brutality of Cardassian imprisonment?
Or had they simply found themselves trapped and unable to escape in time?
With an uncomfortable weight settled in his mind, Captain Picard realised he would never truly know.
He crawled back out the tube where everyone was waiting with bated breath.
"Please note the time and place," Picard said solemnly. "When communication is restored, we will inform the Operations Centre there are a dozen Bajoran civilian casualties in this section."
Commander Elliot looked down to the ground.
"We didn't even know they were there," he said sadly. "We passed through here dozens of times. They were right there."
"You couldn't have known," Captain Picard assured him. "We have no idea when they arrived at this spot. And if they were attempting to remain hidden, then you couldn't have detected them."
Eventually they reached the Jefferies tube junction that Elliot had deemed 'base camp.'
Geordi's scans didn't show any people to be in the area, so they all crawled down to investigate.
The junction was approximately twenty metres into the central structural pylons of the base. When they reached the area, it was evident it had been lived in recently.
There was a storage crate that had been used as a makeshift trash receptacle to hold the wrappings from various ration packs that had been eaten and discarded.
"Well, it looks like whoever was here certainly left in a hurry," Geordi said as he surveyed the outer shirts of uniforms and canteens that had been left unattended. "I'm not picking up anything down any of these tubes."
The flash of something gold on the ground caught Data's eye.
Kneeling down he picked up a uniform shirt that had been rolled into a makeshift pillow.
It was longer than the other uniform tops they had found. Data unrolled it and immediately recognised it was a Starfleet dress uniform in Operations gold.
Data traced his fingers over the two golden pips at the collar.
"It was really hot," Commander Elliot advised. "And she'd been making these supply runs."
Data rolled up the uniform and stuffed it into the satchel at his hip.
As they climbed back up the ladder, Geordi gripped Data's shoulder tightly.
"We're going to find her," Geordi whispered.
The team spent another hour crawling through deck thirty-one where they found various pockets of Starfleet personnel and civilians that had been killed by the Saark gas.
To their relief, they located a team of Starfleet officers that had managed to survive in one of the canteen storage facilities by seeking refuge in the cold storage area.
It was hermetically sealed for storing real, valuable food which was a hot commodity. Although replicators had certainly provided an answer to sustenance shortages, real food was still largely preferred by many. It was hard to come by and care packages from home were often sent containing special recipes and dishes from loved ones.
"They flooded the whole area with this Saark gas," one of the Lieutenants reported. "Somehow we got in here just in time."
They were a team from the docking bay. They'd managed to scramble to safety before the gas had overtaken the area.
"If Ensign Vang hadn't remembered the cold storage existed, we'd have been gone for," another added.
The three-man team took the notes from Captain Picard and returned to the Operations Centre to report back the casualties that had been identified on this level.
"I feel horrible," the first Lieutenant confessed. "Sir, we didn't mean to hide-"
Captain Picard cut off the Lieutenant.
"Lieutenant, your home was invaded by a Cardassian war fleet. If all you did was survive, that is enough," Picard said warmly.
Suddenly, Geordi came around the corner bearing a look that was a mix of excitement and disappointment.
"Sir, I'm reading approximately fifteen bodies in a medical storage locker ahead," Geordi said. "There's a lot of interference from the duranium lining the storage unit, but I think there might be people in there."
Geordi didn't need to say it aloud.
If there were people inside the locker, it was likely the Saark gas had killed them.
"Aren't those lockers sealed?" Picard questioned.
"Typically, a medical storage locker would be sealed just as the canteen cold storage," Data explained. "However, the amount of breathable air would be significantly decreased by the extra number of people."
Data's eyes flitted back and forth rapidly.
If there were survivors still alive in the medical storage facility, their air supply would be dwindling.
Without hesitation, the team raced off down the corridor.
Data was the first to reach the space and found the door wouldn't open.
Captain Picard tried a Starfleet Command emergency override next and discovered it still wouldn't budge.
"Sir, something is blocking our access," Data advised.
Communications were still down, and they had no way with which to contact the Operations Centre to initiate an override.
Geordi began to pound desperately on the door.
"Hey! Hey! Open up!" Geordi called out. "It's safe now!"
"Data, can you open the door manually?" Picard asked.
On the other side of the room, the survivors were fighting to remain conscious. Their air supply was dangerously low. It seemed the Cardassians had deactivated their ability to independently recycle the air. And since they had welded the door shut, they had found themselves trapped.
Tasha was resting her head against the wall. She was feeling both light-headed and nauseous from the lack of sufficient air.
A loud banging startled her.
She jolted and the little boy that had been asleep on her lap began to cry.
"Shhh," Tasha said in a hazy voice. "C'mon."
She struggled to her feet and looked around for Captain Davies.
He was already up and herding the remaining semi-alert survivors to the back of the room.
For those that were already unconscious, Guinan and one of the Ensigns were struggling to drag them to the back wall behind one of the metal storage containers for protection.
"They're likely to come in disruptors ablaze," Davies warned.
Tasha checked her phaser charge and let out a frustrated grunt.
"Oh give us a break!" Tasha whispered in irritation as she looked at the depleted power cell.
"The heat and humidity have drained the power cells," Davies said as he realised what she was looking at.
Tasha glanced around for something – anything – she could use.
Spying an access box, Tasha opened the panel and ripped out two of the tubing pipes. As the Cardassians had already disabled their access, the pipes weren't doing them much good anyways.
Tasha tossed one to Captain Davies and they both took up a defensive position.
"Let's hope your luck holds," Tasha whispered to the baby that was still firmly strapped across her chest.
Several seconds later, the door was ripped off by the hinges.
The bright light of the corridor flooded into the dark storage locker, temporarily blinding the survivors inside.
Tasha and Lee raced forward and swung violently at the bodies flooding into the room in hopes that they could catch the Cardassians off guard.
"Argh!" Tasha cried as she brought down the pipe.
A large form caught it with one hand and Tasha found herself straining against an inhuman force.
Her eyes adjusted to the light.
Data and Tasha stared at each for a moment – Data wide-eyed as he attempted to process the scene before him.
Tasha was dishevelled, squinting against the sudden change in brightness, and completely out of breath.
Before either of them could speak, Worf groaned next to them - having taken Captain Lee's pipe to the side of the head.
"I'm so sorry," Lee panted as helped the Klingon to his feet.
"It is quite alright," Worf said stiffly. "There is nothing more honourable than a last stand."
Suddenly, the toddler ran out and clutched onto Tasha's leg.
She reached down and gripped the back of his head.
"It's alright," she breathed. "We're going to be alright."
Data cocked his head to the side in confusion.
He looked down at the young boy and then back up to Tasha.
"Long story," she wheezed.
As their eyes began to adjust to the darkness, Captain Picard caught sight of a familiar silhouette in the shadows.
"Guinan," he said in astonishment.
A broad smile broke out on her face as she stepped forward.
"Captain," she nodded.
It seemed as if the two were familiar with one another.
"Since we missed dinner, how about breakfast?" Guinan teased.
Captain Picard laughed warmly.
"Brilliant," he replied eagerly.
Tasha looked back and forth between the pair in shock.
Guinan had said she had a friend on the Enterprise.
She had never said it was Captain Picard.
"Please allow me to introduce my oldest and most trusted friend, Guinan," Captain Picard said as he took hold of her hands and guided her over the debris of the door and out into the corridor.
"Captain," Chief O'Brien's voice rang out from his combadge. "Communications and transporter functions have been restored."
"Good work, Chief," Picard replied before ordering everyone back to the promenade where they would begin staging clean up efforts.
From the back of the room, several more familiar faces appeared.
"Captain, it is good to see you," Captain Bradbury said with a small nod.
"Likewise," Captain Picard replied, attempting to hide his astonishment at Captain Bradbury's greeting.
Once they were on the promenade, Data and Tasha found a place to wait while the medical team worked through an initial check of all the survivors.
The promenade deck was full of injured survivors and medical personnel bustling about. Civilians and Starfleet personnel alike, everyone was running about as supplies were distributed and tearful reunions filled the area.
The entire way back to the promenade, the boy had been hesitant to go with anyone other than Tasha despite many offers of help.
He'd clutched tightly to her, unwilling to be carried by anyone other than the Security Chief.
Even now, in a secluded alcove, he was shy as he hid behind Tasha's leg.
But Data could see Tasha was exhausted and needed a break.
"Allow me," Data said.
Data bent down to pick up the young boy, but he turned his head away sharply.
"He's pretty frightened," Tasha said as she pulled him up on her hip. "It's not you, Data. It's everyone."
She could see Data was trying to hide that he was hurt.
Tasha knew intimately just how self-conscious he could be regarding his inhuman appearance. Data knew it disturbed people and it was very possible the similarities between Data's pale bioplast and the grey skin of Cardassians could frighten the child.
"What is his name?" Data inquired.
Tasha shook her head.
"He's hardly said a word since we found him," Tasha explained. "He's gotten pretty attached."
Doctor Crusher appeared a few minutes later and checked over Tasha and the kids.
"My, he's pretty clingy," Beverly commented as she tried to get the little boy to look at her for a scan.
He refused.
In the end, Tasha had to gently hold his head in place while Beverly completed her scan.
"I know, I know," Tasha said in a soothing voice as she rocked back and forth. "It was very scary, but you were so brave."
Beverly gingerly rubbed his back in what she hoped was a reassuring measure as he sniffled.
"I've alerted all of the medical staff to be on the lookout for anyone looking for two Bajoran children," Beverly advised as she typed away on her PADD. "But for now, they're in good health."
The Doctor reluctantly agreed to forgo a more formal scan with Tasha until they could find the parent or guardian of the children. Beverly understood the boy had likely gone through quite an ordeal and it was only natural that he had latched onto the person that had found him.
"But you need rest," Beverly warned. "That's an order."
"I think a shower first," Tasha replied as she spied the snot on her shoulder. "I'll do my best."
Data and Tasha were waiting for the 'all clear' on deck twenty-eight. That was where Tasha had located the kids and she was hoping if their parents had survived, they might find them there.
At the very least, they could leave a communication about where to contact them to have the children returned.
Captain Lee radioed that he would do everything he could to try and find their parents.
As they stood there, Data watched as the wee boy snuggled against Tasha's shoulder, occasionally peeking out to sneak a glance at the peculiar android.
Whenever he caught Data staring back, he buried head against Tasha again.
It seemed in spite of the commotion around them, Data and Tasha finally had a moment alone together.
Well, as alone as it could get with the children in tow.
"I was concerned," Data confessed as he looked down at the ground.
"Hey," Tasha replied.
With her free hand, Tasha placed two fingers under his chin and forced him to look up.
Data raised his eyes.
"We're alright," Tasha said simply. "We're both alright."
Data wanted nothing more than to hold her, but he knew that wouldn't be possible as her hands were quite literally full.
He settled for brushing a soft kiss on the top of her free hand.
"Probably not the reunion you were expecting," Tasha laughed.
"I am just pleased you are safe," Data admitted.
"C'mere," Tasha said as she pulled him close.
For the first time in days, Data leaned forward and gave her a quick peck.
When they broke apart, the small boy was staring wide-eyed at Data, no longer afraid of him.
He reached out and gripped Data's nose.
Tasha bit back a grin as she watched them.
She mused to herself it was probably a good thing that Data didn't feel pain as she watched a pair of tiny hands tweak and twist Data's nose.
"I think he likes you," Tasha commented.
"Human children often grab for things in an attempt to achieve tactile stimulation," Data said scientifically. "It is an important part of their development."
For the first time since they'd rescued him, the little boy was starting to giggle as he squeezed Data's ears, poked and prodded at his face, and was completely fascinated by his yellow eyes and lack of nose ridges.
Both Data and Tasha were relieved when the young child reached for Data and went willingly into his arms.
Tasha sighed in relief at having to no longer bear the weight of a three stone toddler.
"Tasha, what will happen to them?" Data asked.
He could see the immediate change in Tasha's demeanour.
"If their family didn't make it then they'll probably be sent to a Bajoran orphanage until they can find a home," Tasha said with a blank look on her face. "If they ever do find a home."
Tasha pulled back the wrap and looked down at the baby in her arms.
"They may get split up if they can't find someone willing to take both of them," Tasha added darkly. "There's a lot of orphaned Bajorans."
Data didn't need to be an empath to know just how much the thought of that hurt Tasha.
"It's going to take time for this one," Tasha said as she brushed the little boy's bangs out of his eyes.
"Starfleet offers several therapy options for young children that have experienced traumatic situations," Data advised.
"I know Data, I know," Tasha replied strangely.
Tasha knew all too well.
She was a product of Starfleet's therapy options for children having been one herself when she escaped her homeworld.
And as much as Tasha would sing the praises of therapy to anyone willing to listen, she knew that this experience would forever shape the life of these children – whether their family survived or not.
"She's lucky she won't remember," Tasha said as she stroked the baby's cheek. "Easier that way."
From a second story window overlooking the promenade, Captain Picard and Guinan were seated at a rounded bistro table while they watched the scene below.
They were eating breakfast together at Guinan's pub and couldn't help but observe the android, Security Chief, and children down on the promenade.
"She's really something. Took a lot of heart to save those kids," Guinan said as she poured the tea.
She handed Picard a saucer.
"Thank you," he said as he took it from her.
"But something tells me that's not out of character of her. She'd do anything to save anyone, wouldn't she?" Guinan asked.
Captain Picard nodded as he buttered a piece of toast.
"Yes," he agreed. "It's one of the qualities that I find remarkable about her."
When Guinan didn't respond, Captain Picard looked up from his plate.
"That's what I was afraid you'd say," Guinan replied honestly.
Picard noted the change in Guinan.
He knew that she experienced funny feelings sometimes.
That's an understatement. He thought to himself.
They weren't 'funny feelings' so much as they were a deep understanding, almost like an other-worldly connection with the universe.
Guinan had always been vague about the nature of her strange powers.
But she had never once been wrong.
"Guinan, what is it? What did you see?" Picard asked as he observed a dark look pass over his friend.
There was something in the way Guinan had reacted that left him spooked.
Captain Picard followed her gaze down to where Tasha was rocking back and forth with the baby.
"People like that have a tendency to run into danger rather than away from it," Guinan replied vaguely. "You were lucky, Jean-Luc. You got a second heart and a second chance."
Guinan turned back to him.
"Most people don't," Guinan concluded.
Captain Picard looked down at the couple below him.
Was something going to happen at the hearing?
Or was this just a commentary about Guinan's experience with Tasha?
"You're debating if you should warn her," Guinan said.
Captain Picard looked aghast.
"Ah, ah," Guinan cautioned. "I can't read your thoughts. I'm reading your body language."
In addition to her seemingly supernatural abilities, Guinan was an expert at reading the subtle nuances of human communication in both verbal and nonverbal elements.
"What would you even say? My strange friend noticed you have a tendency to put others before yourself just the same as any good security officer does?" Guinan inquired.
Captain Picard frowned.
"How would you explain it?" Guinan pressed.
Jean-Luc chewed on the inside of his lip for a moment as he contemplated this.
"You know I get feelings," Guinan went on. "But they aren't premonitions or omens. There's no telling if or even what that feeling is associated with nor when such an 'if' or 'what' would occur."
Captain Picard sighed as he stared down at the crew members that he cared for deeply.
"You have to let life progress naturally," Guinan warned. "You can't warn someone of something ominous based on a feeling. You can't expect her to live her life based on trying to avoid something none of us understand."
Jean-Luc knew she was right, but her words had left him feeling unsettled.
"I've told you a dozen times," Guinan assured him.
"It's just a feeling," they said aloud together.
When they received authorization to check on the deck where the children had been initially found, Data and Tasha set off in that direction.
Regrettably, that avenue was a bust. The entire block of quarters that housed multiple families along that route had been completely destroyed.
There was no formal location set up for children that had been found alone yet, but the medical team was housing them temporarily in the canteen.
So, Data and Tasha took the two kids there.
Upon their arrival, they were greeted by Doctor Crusher with sympathetic eyes.
"No luck?" she asked.
Tasha shook her head.
While they'd gone off in search of their home, Beverly had assigned one of the medical interns to cross reference the Starbase logs for any record of a Bajoran family with children about their age.
But without their names, it was a difficult process.
"It's early," Beverly said, hoping to instil a sense of hope.
Tasha readily handed over the baby to Doctor Crusher who was eager for a chance to hold the wee one.
"They'll be safe here," Beverly assured them.
She knew Tasha was nervous about leaving the kids.
Data knelt down in the corner with the young boy where another child was playing with a set of stacking blocks.
For a few moments, it seemed like the child was finally interested in something besides Data or Tasha.
However, as soon as Data stood, he raced back over as fast as his tiny legs could carry him.
He was panicked about being separated, wailing uncontrollably until Data scooped him up.
"Under the circumstances, it may be best for you to look after him for now," Beverly suggested. "You're in the Operations Centre today, aren't you? I could send along some toys to keep him occupied."
"It does appear he is suffering an extreme reaction to the idea of separation," Data said concurring with the Doctor's assessment.
Tasha nodded.
She reached for the baby.
"In for a penny, in for a pound," Tasha said with a shrug.
She had said it nonchalantly, but Data could pick up on the distinct sense of relief that filled Tasha at the prospect of looking after the kids while the search continued.
It was as if she could breathe easier. Data suspected Tasha wouldn't be satisfied until they knew the children were reunited with their family - or in the very least not going to be split up.
"Tasha, I'm sure the baby will be fine here if you want a break," Beverly offered.
Tasha shook her head.
"No, I don't want to separate them," Tasha replied honestly.
It hadn't been easy, but it had certainly been an experience keeping the kids around for the day. Both Data and Tasha had gone to the Operations Centre to help with the repairs.
While Tasha worked at getting the security systems back online, Data ensured the life support and atmospheric systems were up and running.
It was going to take weeks to get all of the base systems cleaned up and back in working order. The Cardassian invasion had done significant damage to a number of areas. However, the rebuilding of the quarters and businesses that had been destroyed had already begun.
Although working with the children around had presented its own set of challenges, it had certainly had its moments.
Halfway through the afternoon, Worf had stopped in for a briefing with Captain Davies.
"Has there been no progress in locating their family?" Worf asked Tasha as he approached her.
"Not yet," Tasha said as she typed away on the Tactical console.
She looked up and met Worf's eyes.
A look of understanding passed between the two friends.
There was a deep bond they shared as orphans as the result of violent actions on their respective homeworlds – unanswered questions, a complicated relationship with death, a mix of curiosity and fear about forming attachments.
Worf suddenly felt as if he were being watched.
He looked down and saw the small boy had toddled over and was standing directly in front of him.
Tasha glanced down and couldn't miss the unmistakable look of wonder in his eyes.
"Say 'hi Worf'," Tasha said as she knelt down next to him and waved up at the Klingon.
Worf knelt down beside them and gave the boy a rare Klingon smile.
"Woof," the boy said.
He reached out and grabbed Worf's nose, feeling along the Klingon ridges that lined his nose and forehead.
After a moment, he pulled his hand back and touched his own Bajoran ridges.
Tasha was thrilled to see he was willing to open up to someone else.
"I'm sorry, Worf," Tasha said apologetically. "But I think this little guy's fond of you."
"It's quite alright," Worf replied as he tipped his head forward to give the child better access. "The boy has good taste."
One the boy had satisfied his curiosity, he'd begged Worf to pick him up.
"See if you can get him to eat, would you?" Tasha asked as she handed Worf a sealed package of age-appropriate food. "He's been fussy all day."
Worf looked at the unappetising children's nutritional pack and opted to fetch a protein bar from his satchel.
"Tiny warriors need to eat," Worf said as he held out a piece of the bar. "Nutrition is most honourable. Now this is a warrior's snack."
At the end of the business day, Commander Elliot sent word that the hearing would resume tomorrow morning at 09:00 hours.
They would be expected to report in at 08:00 to debrief and strategise.
As Tasha's Commission was still provisionally revoked, Captain Lee suggested she stay on the base at the quarters she'd been previously assigned. They were still intact as there was little damage done to that portion of the base.
Captain Picard was more than pleased to grant Data permission to remain aboard Starbase 118 for the time being.
Best of all, Beverly had stopped by with excellent news.
"I think we've found their parents," Beverly said. "A young Bajoran couple looking for two children – a young boy and a baby girl."
"Data, I'm going to go with Doctor Crusher and I'll meet you back at my quarters," Tasha said with a big smile.
She could barely contain her excitement about finding their parents.
Tasha wouldn't call the experience 'fun,' but she was grateful for the time she'd had with the two small kids.
More than that, it was so gratifying to know Beverly had found their family and the two would be going home.
Forty-five minutes later, Data stood at the edge of the room and surveyed the space. With the help of Commander Riker and Keiko, he'd managed to have them beam down a package containing items from his room.
Keiko had gone to his quarters to fetch the materials he'd saved from their last night on the Enterprise. To Data's delight, Keiko had thrown in several suggestions of her own including a case of Orion crystal candles and a bouquet of black baccara roses renowned for their deep, rich colour and velvety petals.
Data had utilised the replicator to fashion one of Tasha's favourite meals and produced a bottle of wine he'd saved from their failed date in the arboretum.
"Computer, please lower the illumination intensity of the room," Data said aloud.
A moment later the lighting dropped a bit and Data was pleased with the soft, ambient glow that danced off the walls.
He checked his internal chronometer and knew Tasha would likely be back any minute.
Data stepped into the lavvy to take one last look at the set up – Tasha's favourite whiskey, soft flannels, bath salts, and a rose-petal lined bathtub.
"Computer, please begin playback of Data's music file 8741," Data instructed.
He smiled, proud of himself as he soaked in the atmosphere of the room.
Although Tasha had initially felt guilty about some of Data's lavish ideas for romance, she'd started to come around.
It wasn't that she didn't appreciate them – sometimes she just needed reminding that it was acceptable to indulge oneself from time to time.
Having grown up in a world full of scarcity, she needed reassurance that it was alright to enjoy fine things.
Data changed out of his uniform and into a casual black shirt and pair of grey trousers.
And not a moment too soon! He thought eagerly as he heard the door slide open.
He was practically giddy as he theorised about the look on her face.
Data stepped out the arch that separated the bedroom and main space of the quarters.
"Hello darling," he said uncharacteristically as he leaned carelessly against the doorframe.
He was making his best attempt to emulate the suave nature of characters he'd read about.
"No, this way," Tasha said as she motioned with her head. "That's it."
Tasha froze.
She glanced around the room, blinking several times as she took in the candlelight dinner set for two and the sound of soft jazz playing in the background.
To Data's surprise, Tasha still had both of the children with her.
"It wasn't their parents," Tasha said sadly.
She wasn't merely upset because they had failed to find these children's parents. She was equally as heartbroken that there were two children missing – and likely dead – out there somewhere.
Before she could stop him, the little boy ran over to Data as he was eager to see a familiar face.
Data bent down and picked him up.
Immediately, the child began to tug at Data's hair.
"Worf gave him some sugar," Tasha said as she stepped into the room. "He's really taken a shine to you, you know?"
"It would appear so," Data replied as he allowed the boy to yank his head back and forth.
A moment later, a storage crate materialised in the centre of the room having been transported down from the Enterprise.
"We just sent down the package," Beverly's voice rang out from Tasha's combadge.
"Are you sure you don't want us to come down?" Deanna's voice followed a moment later.
Tasha tapped her combadge to respond.
"No," she replied. "Got the package. Thank you, but I think we're fine."
Tasha turned to Data.
"I'm sorry," she said as she looked around the room. "I know this isn't how you were planning to spend the evening."
Data cocked his head to the side in concern.
"Tasha, I am not bothered by this," Data replied. "I am happy to be in your presence in any capacity."
"I couldn't leave them," she confessed.
"I know," Data responded. "Frankly, the idea of spending time with you in such a domestic setting is an enjoyable prospect."
An hour and forty minutes later, they were sitting across from one another eating dinner.
It had only taken Data a few moments to assemble the temporary cot for the baby and a small bed for the toddler. Doctor Crusher and Deanna had sent down a package with formula, nappies, toys, fresh clothing, and a variety of supplies for the pair.
Fortunately, they had also sent down a baby box. It created a non-dangerous forcefield that could be modified for any space up to two square metres.
The baby had been the easiest to take care of. Much to their relief, she'd been perfectly content to let Data and Tasha feed her, bathe her in the sink, and slip on a fresh pair of jim-jams.
She'd cooed and blown spit bubbles as Tasha had slipped her wee feet into a pair of baby socks.
In addition, she'd smiled when Data had softly sung her a lullaby before they'd put her down for the night.
"Blue skies, smiling at me," he crooned softly.
She'd grasped her tiny hands around his finger and Data gasped softly with wonder at the feeling.
He couldn't exactly put words to it. But if he had to describe it, he would say it was a mixture of awe and euphoria. Children were fascinating to Data in terms of how they observed the world around them – learning and growing at an astonishing rate.
On the other hand, her older brother had been a ball of unruly energy. He'd thrown a fistful of mashed tatties at Data – hitting him squarely in the face.
"Good aim," Tasha had said while trying not to laugh.
He'd made a proper mess of himself and the room when they'd fed him. They didn't have a proper baby seat, so Tasha had attempted to feed him on her lap.
The energetic little lad had slipped through arms like a pasta noodle before running around the room.
Eventually, Data had decided it would be best for him to hold the child as his reflexes allowed him to anticipate any breakaways.
"I don't want to be hit in the face," Tasha had warned.
Once he was fed, it had taken both of them to get him cleaned up in the sink in the lavvy.
He'd been excited about the water – splashing both of them repeatedly. Tasha was grateful Data's bioplast shielded his circuitry.
When Tasha had noticed the petals and bath setup, she gave Data a knowing look.
"You're sweet," she commented. "But I bet you didn't think you'd be washing-"
Tasha paused and leaned over to smell a spot of something on her shirt.
She scrunched up her nose.
"You know what, never mind," she said quickly, shaking her head in disgust.
Now, nearly two hours later they finally had the chance to sit down to dinner themselves.
The baby was fast asleep by this point and the little boy was racing around in the baby box with the energy of two Klingon targs.
"What?" Data asked as he noticed Tasha staring at him.
"I think you should let him do your hair every day," Tasha grinned as she took in his tousled hair. "It's nice."
Androids couldn't blush, but Tasha was certain Data would be if he could.
A squeal of delight from the baby box brought them out of their moment.
"How do you propose we get that one to sleep?" Tasha asked honestly.
She'd truthfully expected him to tire himself out by this point.
"He's got more energy than a Galaxy-class warp core," she said as she listened to the patter of his feet running back and forth.
"Perhaps a story," Data suggested. "Humanoid children often find literature to be a familial bedtime ritual and they thrive on routine."
Once everyone had been fed, Tasha had fetched the boy from the baby box and settled onto the sofa.
Data sat down a moment later as he scanned his memory banks for an age-appropriate story for the small child.
"This story is entitled 'If You Give a Tribble a Piece of Grain' and was written by-" Data paused. "That is not important."
He said as he realised a toddler would have no interest in the author.
"If you give a tribble a piece of grain, he's going to ask for a glass of sehlat milk," Data began to recite. "And if you give him a glass of sehlat milk, he's going to need a power conduit."
It appeared he was familiar with the story because his eyes lit up as he listened to Data.
For Data's part, he utilised his hands to try and capture the boy's attention as attempted to emulate how a tribble would eat his way through the various parts of a ship.
When the story was finished, the boy was much more relaxed – but still not asleep.
"Again," he said enthusiastically.
Data nodded and repeated the story.
Once more when it was finished, the little boy repeated his request.
"Again!" he said as he clapped his hands together.
Tasha shrugged.
After the third request, Data decided to try something a little more appropriate for bedtime.
"The cow jumping over the moon. And there were three wee tribbles sitting on chairs. And two little kittens. And a pair of mittens. And a little toy starship all painted in gold. And a young vole," Data said.
Data and Tasha exchanged a glance as the young boy yawned and curled up against Tasha, his eyelids heavy as he fought to keep them open.
"Goodnight room, goodnight moon," Data went on. "Goodnight little starship."
Data went on until the story was finished.
He looked over at the boy and saw that he was fast asleep.
"He's asleep, Tasha," Data whispered.
As his eyes followed up from the child in her lap, he watched Tasha yawn.
"Don't stop," she said sleepily as she snuggled back against him. "Tell me a story."
Data nodded as he acknowledged her request.
"I had called upon my friend, Mr. Sherlock Holmes, one day in the autumn of last year," Data began. "With an apology for my intrusion, I was about to withdraw when Holmes pulled me abruptly into the room and closed the door behind me. 'You could not possibly have come at a better time, my dear Watson,' he said cordially."
Tasha sighed contentedly as Data proceeded to recite The Red-Headed League for her.
It wasn't the evening they had planned, but she just wanted to hear the sound of his voice.
Data didn't quite reach the halfway point when Tasha's breathing changed, and it was clear from the change of pattern that she had fallen asleep.
He looked down at the woman asleep in his arms and the child curled up in her lap and contemplated what to do.
Data knew he was certainly capable of lifting them up and carrying them both to their respective sleeping spaces.
But he just couldn't bring himself to disturb them.
After all, unlike a humanoid, he was perfectly capable of remaining completely still to allow them to rest in this manner until morning.
They sat like that for almost an hour before the door chimed.
Data ordered the computer to open the quarters and allow whoever was outside to enter.
Captain Picard stepped into the main room. His gaze fell onto the candles and wine on the table and instantly felt wracked with guilt for disturbing their evening.
"I am so sorry," he said quickly as he turned around to the door. "I didn't mean to intrude!"
"It is quite alright, Captain," Data said softly.
Curious about Data's odd tone, Picard turned back around.
His eyes followed the table until they hit the baby box. He surveyed the cot and toys strewn about the place until his eyes fell on the Android Second officer buried underneath an exhausted Tasha and a wee boy sporting a pair of obnoxiously orange jim-jams covered in tiny tribbles.
Data was out of uniform – sporting a shirt covered in food and his hair was tousled in an utterly unkempt manner.
Captain Picard laughed softly.
It was such an out of character look for the always poised android and rigid Security Chief.
And yet, at the same time there was something entirely familial and natural about it.
From across the room, the baby started to fuss in the cot.
Before Data could move, Captain Picard shot out his finger.
"No," he whispered. "You stay put. Allow me."
Captain Picard had a reputation for not being fond of children.
However, that wasn't an accurate assessment.
In truth, children terrified him.
"Captain? Do you require assistance?" Data asked as he observed the Captain.
He'd been standing over the cot, staring down at the crying baby for nearly a full minute.
"No, no, no," Picard insisted. "I can do this."
Captain Picard shook his hands nervously at his sides and then reached down and scooped up the baby.
To his alarm, the baby did not settle.
Data's sensitive audio receptors allowed him to pick up on the Captain's soft 'uh' as he contemplated what he should do next.
Thinking back to his human development course at Starfleet, the Captain began to run through the list of reasons the baby would cry.
"Is she wet?" Data inquired.
Captain Picard froze for a moment before the meaning of Data's question registered.
"No," he responded.
"There are pre-prepared bottles in the storage bag on the shelf behind you," Data advised.
"Ah! Right," Picard said as he reached for one of the bottles.
"Do not force it into her mouth, just be sure to position it at the correct angle to allow her to take it on her own," Data said as he walked the Captain through the process of feeding.
Captain Picard watched carefully as the wee lass began to feed.
He let out a relieved sigh.
Strolling back over toward Data he began to relax.
"The hearing will resume tomorrow," Captain Picard said quietly.
"Yes, sir," Data acknowledged.
Silence fell between the pair.
Captain Picard hadn't just stopped by for a casual visit.
No, there was a purpose to his unusual dropping in on two officers.
He'd been concerned about both of them.
And this recent stint with Q, the hearing, and now the Cardassian situation had reminded him just how much his crew truly were his family.
"How are you feeling, Data?" Captain Picard asked sincerely.
Data blinked twice as he considered the question.
"At the moment, I am feeling quite content," Data confessed.
Captain Picard noticed his eyes drift down to the two bodies asleep against him.
"And frightened," Data said after a moment.
Data swallowed hard as he considered the consequences of letting the Captain in on the secret he had thus far only shared with Geordi, Tasha, Keiko, Deanna, and Beverly.
"For some time now, I found myself inexplicably drawn to the concept of family," Data explained. "These feelings existed long before I began my relationship with Lieutenant Yar."
Data glanced back down at Tasha.
"But they have greatly increased since that time," Data said.
He looked back at the Captain.
"More than anything this is what I want," Data admitted. "I would like to have a family of my own."
Captain Picard could empathise.
There was a part of himself that he'd long ago buried that was also longing for family.
"I do not believe such a change would interfere with my duties as many Starfleet personnel have families," Data went on. "And I should make clear that I have no intentions of taking that step for some time."
Captain Picard was pleased to hear that.
"However, I am concerned that the outcome of this hearing will negatively impact that goal," Data said solemnly. "I find myself scared it will set back our relationship or possibly crush the dream of all the things I wish to experience."
Data took a heavy breath.
It was such a human moment, Captain Picard forgot entirely that Data was an android.
"Because I want to experience these things with her," Data said in earnest.
The baby was beginning to push away the bottle.
Captain set the bottle down on the end table.
"You will need to burp her, sir," Data instructed.
"Oh, right," Picard said as he recalled that part of the process from his class nearly twenty years prior.
"Um, sir," Data said tentatively. "You'll want to put a flannel over your shoulder."
Captain Picard nodded and glanced around for something to use.
Data directed him to the table.
Picard draped the material across his shoulder and set to work gently patting the back of the baby.
"Whatever happens, I shall be eternally grateful for this moment," Data said with a pleasant look. "Even if it is fleeting."