U.S.S. Enterprise – Babylon 5 – 10 Forward

-Nine months later-

Representatives from the member governments of Interstellar Alliance met on Babylon 5 for a special occasion; the dedication of New Paris and the de-facto founding of the United Federation of Planets. Since a jump gate had not been deployed in the system, the Enterprise had been sent to Babylon 5 to ferry the guests to Betazed.

General Fitzpatrick stood near the windows by himself, nursing a cocktail. The ships from multiple races could be seen in the distance, with Babylon 5 visible to his far left. President Luchenko walked into the room and noticed the general standing alone near the windows. She grabbed a drink of her own and went to join him.

"I hope I'm not disturbing you, General. You seemed deep in thought. Is there anything wrong?"

"No, Madam President, nothing wrong. I think I'm disoriented. I've seen what this ship can do in combat, yet nothing about this feels like a warship. Admiral Picard told me this is a Galaxy class battleship, but I've never seen a battleship, or any warship, have luxuries close to this."

"I wouldn't know anything about warships; however, this ship is far more comfortable than Earthforce One, with better amenities. It's hard to believe this is a warship," Luchenko said.

"Not just a warship, the top warship in the galaxy. If their warships have these kinds of luxuries, what must their civilian ships have?" Fitzpatrick asked. He turned to look away from Luchenko for a moment, then continued their conversation. "It looks like we're moving. Do you feel anything?" Fitzpatrick asked her.

"No, nothing at all. I have far less time in space than you do, but I will say that this is the first time I've ever been on a ship and never felt any movement."

"This is unprecedented. No one's ships are this smooth when getting underway." Before Fitzpatrick could continue his thought, the ship went to warp. The experience briefly silenced the room before everyone resumed their conversations.

"This is incredible," Fitzpatrick said, in awe of the scene in front of him, first with the flash of light, then the appearance of streaking stars and other stellar objects. "To travel at light speed in normal space and still see the wonders of the universe, unlike hyperspace. This is one of the highlights of my career," Fitzpatrick said with the look of a first-year cadet.

"Won't our new Starfleet-built ships provide a similar experience?" Luchenko asked.

"Not exactly, no windows. I wish I could command a ship like this. I would give up my position in a second to be able to see and explore the stars like this," Fitzpatrick said as a comet zoomed by.

"General, I had no idea you were interested in exploration."

"I began my career in exploration. Unfortunately, promotion opportunities are rare, so I chose to focus on more traditional command opportunities."

"Well, I'm sorry we failed to convince Picard to join us. I didn't realize what this meant to you, personally."

"I think we made a mistake with him," Fitzpatrick said, changing the subject.

The statement caught Luchenko off guard. "Really? In what way? We spent months planning the itinerary to ensure we presented our best case."

"There was nothing wrong with the itinerary. Thinking about it now, I think we asked the wrong question. Instead of asking them to join us, we should have asked to join them."

"I don't understand. Why would we ask to join them?" Luchenko asked, thoroughly confused.

"We've both seen the videos of their Federation and Earth, and, in many ways, both are significantly more developed than the Earth Alliance. We asked them to join a group of people a century less developed than they are. We already knew that we had nothing to offer them, but it's worse than that. We asked them to conform to our way of life while giving us access to their advanced technologies. I now realize that was a lose-lose proposition for them. I'm surprised Picard didn't laugh in our faces when we asked him to join us. My conversations with General Blachowicz have confirmed this. She's been working with Maxwell and Starfleet for nine months, and she's adamant that their position hasn't changed and won't change."

"So you think we should give up trying to convince them?" Luchenko asked, still not convinced.

"Yes, it's a waste of time and effort. Instead, we should ask to join them and not ask them to lower themselves and their standard of living to match us. We should work to elevate ourselves to their level. Their Earth was a founding member of their Federation, and that government was one of the largest in the galaxy, far larger than the Earth Alliance. If we join them now, our Earth could be a founding member of the Federation here. Earth, in both universes, would be the heart of the Federation, with humanity as the central voice."

"I understand now. We would transition to the post-scarcity society Picard spoke about, dramatically improving our standard of living," Luchenko said.

"Exactly. Moreover, Earthforce will be replaced by Starfleet, this Starfleet. If they don't join us, we'd be lucky if we can achieve anything close to this a century from now," Fitzpatrick said as he looked around 10 Forward. "If we join them, think of what we can accomplish in 10, maybe 20 years."

"General, you're advocating the wholesale change of our society. That's a very difficult thing to do, and I would expect strong resistance from many in the Earth Alliance, including the business community."

"I know, but I also know the benefits that everyone will gain. People will be asked to give up nothing except inferior technology, education, and health care. Instead, they would gain the best of all three in the galaxy. We aren't abandoning the Earth Alliance but are allowing it to evolve. The United Federation of Planets is the next level of evolution, and Earth and humanity will greatly benefit. You said yourself that humanity is stronger when united. In my opinion, this is the only way. Picard and the others will never join us, and I don't blame them."

Luchenko was quiet for a couple of minutes as she turned her attention to the windows. Fitzpatrick watched her closely, now knowing if he'd overstepped by suggesting the dissolution of the Earth Alliance and Earthforce.

"I think you're right," Luchenko finally said. "Picard and the others have no reason to join us, and we have every reason to join them. All of humanity would benefit, but I think it will be a hard sell. There are billions of Earth Alliance citizens, and there are only 10,000 of them. It seems foolish for us to be the ones to join."

"You're right; it does seem foolish. However, you can't ignore the people, our people. I've heard the criticism of you about the lack of access to health clinics, and I've received more than my fair share from retired generals about Starfleet warships. If anything, the criticism has become even louder recently. Your presidential election should be a foregone conclusion, given the number of successes you've had and the leadership you've demonstrated in the post-Clark era. However, we both know that's not true. Your competitors think they'll be more successful with Starfleet than you've been.

We can wait and hope that one day, they change their minds about joining us, or we can join them. We both want what's best for the Earth Alliance and Earthforce. What's best for both of them is for both to go away, to be replaced by something much better."

"That would be some legacy, to be the final president of the Earth Alliance," Luchenko lamented.

"What if you were also the first president of the United Federation of Planets? Your name and legacy would exist forever. I proposed this because I see this as the best path forward for humanity. I have no legacy to establish or preserve. You, on the other hand, have such an opportunity. I ask you to consider my request, Madam President."

"You've made a compelling argument. If you would excuse me, I need to make a few calls before we arrive at Betazed," Luchenko told Fitzpatrick. She then turned and left the room. Fitzpatrick turned to resume staring at the stars.

Betazed – New Paris – Federation Hall – Picard's Office

-Five hours later-

Picard and Maxwell were seated in Picard's second-floor office, overlooking the plaza below. Several people could be seen below walking around, presumably taking advantage of some early nightlife before the dedication ceremony scheduled for the next day.

Though Picard and Maxwell maintained regular communications, this was the first opportunity each had to meet in person for several months. Each exchanged stories of their respective experiences since their last meetings, with Maxwell presenting a gift to Picard from his hometown. Before their conversation could proceed further, Picard heard the door chime, which he walked over to answer.

"Rachel, I'm glad you made it," Picard said as he shook Garrett's hand.

"Thanks, Admiral. I told the Brakiri and the Hurr that I was going to be here for the colony dedication, and that was non-negotiable."

"Hey, Rachel. It's been so long that I hardly recognize you," Maxwell said in jest.

"It must be the new grey hair I've gotten since I started this job," Garrett shot back.

"Do you still enjoy the post?" Picard asked.

"Yes, yes, I do. Considering my original position of working with the local governments, I find the job especially rewarding, despite the challenges."

"I'm glad to hear it. Now that we're all here, I wanted to discuss tomorrow's itinerary. I intend to give the keynote, followed by Captain Gam. I thought both of you might also want to give speeches," Picard the group.

"Admiral, I wanted to ask you for permission to give the keynote. As I said, given my initial reluctance to help the races here and insistence that we establish an isolated colony, I feel uniquely qualified to give the speech. I'm very proud of what we've accomplished here and feel very strongly about our future and the future of the federation," Garrett said to Picard.

Picard considered her request for a few moments. "Very well. Captain Gam will give the introduction as planned, then you'll follow. I will provide the closing remarks."

"Thank you, Sir."

The conversation was interrupted by the chirp from Picard's communicator. "Picard here."

"Admiral, I have President Luchenko and General Fitzpatrick from the Earth Alliance here to see you, Sir. She says it's urgent."

Picard looked at Maxwell. "Do you know anything about this, Ben?"

"No, Sir."

"Very well, send them up."

A few minutes later, Luchenko and Fitzpatrick were brought to Picard's office. Luchenko looked into the office and saw Maxwell and Garrett already seated. She was nervous about making her proposal in front of all three of them, considering how challenging each had been to work with individually. Luchenko had recovered from the very tense negotiations she'd had with Senate leadership on joining the Federation. Once she convinced them that Starfleet would never join the Earth Alliance, regardless of how hard they tried, most supported her proposal.

"Admiral Picard. It's so nice to see you again. My apologies for our intrusion, but I felt it important to speak to you this evening."

"It's quite all right. It's good to see you as well, Madam President, General. Please enter."

Picard, Luchenko, and Fitzpatrick all entered the office. Maxwell and Garrett walked over to greet the group.

"We can come back. I didn't realize you were in a meeting. My request can wait until you've finished," Luchenko said as she nodded to acknowledge Maxwell and Garrett's presence.

"No, we can discuss your matter now. Please have a seat. We can continue our conversation after we've discussed your request," Picard said to the Earth Alliance members as he motioned them to take their seats.

"Thank you," Luchenko said. "Our request is simple. The Earth Alliance would like to apply for membership to The United Federation of Planets."

The looks of shock were evident on the faces of Garrett and Maxwell. Picard was more guarded, but he was equally surprised. "Madam President, this request is quite unexpected. I was under the impression that your position remained for us to join you eventually. If you don't mind me asking, what changed?"

Fitzpatrick jumped into the conversation. "It was my suggestion, Admiral. Every time I set foot on the Enterprise, my perception of what's possible changes. When we left Babylon 5 and entered light speed, the experience was incredible and one of the highlights of my career. It was then that I realized what we were asking you to give up to join us."

Luchenko continued Fitzpatrick's thought. "I will admit that I was unconvinced when the general proposed the idea. However, his arguments were very persuasive. You will never join us, regardless of how much we push. The establishment of this colony is evidence of that, plus your messaging has been very consistent. Moreover, we've seen the videos of your Federation and Earth. It will take us at least a century or longer to achieve a similar quality of life independent from you. I've spoken with the other leaders of the government and most of us agree, the advantages of joining you are too great to ignore. We want our Earth to be a founding member of a new Federation that will serve the same role as your Earth did."

"Madam President, you have to realize that joining the Federation is a multi-year process, which will require significant changes to your society before you're ready for admission. Are you sure you want to do that?" Garrett asked Luchenko.

"Yes, I do. Your presence on Earth, though limited, has been disruptive to our way of life. Our people aren't happy that our brothers and sisters have a higher quality of life than they do, and their voices have become louder in recent months. Hundreds of thousands have been to the embassy and have learned about your origins and have had limited exposure to some of your technology. They want us to unite, and if you won't join us, then we're prepared to join you."

"Admiral, like you, I joined Earthforce to see the stars. In the more than 30 years I've spent in space, I've never seen the stars as I saw them today. Our people deserve to have that experience. Like the president, I'm been subjected to severe criticism for not integrating Starfleet with Earthforce. I understand why you won't join us. We only ask that you allow us to join you. As the president said, humanity is stronger together," Fitzpatrick said passionately to Picard and the others.

Picard waited a moment before he shared his thoughts. "There is something you don't know because we haven't shared this information outside Starfleet. During the past nine months, we've discovered six populated Federation worlds in various stages of development. We haven't initiated contact with any of them yet. However, I have dispatched ships to patrol those systems, and I will protect those systems as I would any other Federation world. We've known that we would eventually establish the Federation in this universe, though the question of when remained unanswered.

The Earth that existed at the founding of the Federation was a far different Earth than we left two years ago. Your Earth, in many ways, resembles Earth at the Federation's founding. As Admiral Garrett stated, the process for joining the Federation is a lengthy one that requires several major milestones to be achieved. I will consider your application if you're willing to abide by that process. I'll need to confer with my officers to discuss the next steps. However, before you depart, you will be informed of what's needed."

Luchenko and Fitzpatrick didn't bother to hide their smiles. "Thank you, Admiral. This is truly a monumental occasion for all of humanity," Luchenko said to Picard.

"One thing to keep in mind, Madam President, is that the Federation is not a human organization. It is precisely that diversity of races coming together that made the Federation what it was. It will be the same here, as none of the other Federation worlds are populated by humans. If you want to join the Federation, you have to be willing to accept this," Garrett spoke on behalf of Picard.

"I understand. However, you already know the history of the races of this universe. The Interstellar Alliance is still a relatively new concept to us, but we've embraced it. We'll also embrace joining the Federation, with everything that entails," Luchenko said, then continued. "The people have spoken, as Admiral Maxwell can attest. They want us to unite, and they want to see our Earth achieve everything your Earth did."

"Also, as I said previously, I want Earthforce to become Starfleet, and I'd rather not wait a century or more for that to happen. We're committed to this journey, Admiral; trust us," Fitzpatrick added.

"Very well. I'll have my assistant schedule a follow-up meeting with you. I want you to understand that we never intended to influence your government or society. As I'm sure Admiral Maxwell shared with you, good intentions almost always have unintended consequences. These unintended consequences would have been even more disruptive if I'd accepted your offer to locate our colony on Earth," Picard told them.

"There's no need to apologize, Admiral. As the situation with Clark so clearly proved, the Earth Alliance needed to change: to evolve. We've made significant progress during my administration; however, it hasn't been enough. The prospect of joining you will give us the proper motivation to implement the more difficult but needed reforms. At any rate, I can't thank you enough for considering our request and for allowing us to interrupt your meeting. It was so nice to see you all again," Luchenko told the Starfleet officers.

"Likewise, Madam President. General, if you're interested, I can arrange a tour of our Starfleet operations. There are aspects of our operations that differ from Earthforce," Picard told Fitzpatrick.

"I would love that, Admiral. Thank you."

"Picard to Crewman Jenkins. Please report to my office," Picard said into his communicator, then turned to Luchenko. "Your escort will be here momentarily. My assistant will confirm the meeting times with you in the morning."

"Thank you again, Admiral. I hope you have a good evening, Luchenko said to the group.

"Likewise. Good night," Picard replied.

The Starfleet officers waited for the Earth Alliance representatives to leave the office before continuing their meeting.

"Well, that was completely unexpected," Maxwell said, stating the obvious.

"You don't say," Garrett said.

"Ben, you've been on Earth far longer than either of us. What are your thoughts?" Picard asked Maxwell.

"They were right about the amount of pressure they've been receiving. The president didn't do herself any favors by promising that we'd join them. I'm asked about it whenever I'm out in public, and I'm not the only one," Maxwell answered.

"That may be so; however, they aren't ready to become a Federation world, not to mention their colonies. I don't know how much they've recovered from Clark's actions," Picard said.

"If there's one thing I've learned since being here is that when properly motivated, people can be convinced to do almost anything. I've conducted several negotiations with races that haven't spoken in centuries. However, when given the opportunity for greater commerce, they begin communicating," Garrett said, then continued. "Since we've been here, events have taken place far faster than we've been comfortable with. I think this is another example."

Picard nodded in response to Garrett's statement. "Indeed. I wasn't expecting to begin serious discussions about rebuilding the Federation for a few years. However, given this request and the status of the other Federation worlds, we may be forced to accelerate. However, I would like to maintain existing Federation membership protocols, supported by enhanced controls due to our current situation."

"Earth's current leadership has been trustworthy and a good partner. I'm confident they will comply with any stipulations we give them," Maxwell added.

"We also need to consider the other races that would also want to join us," Garrett pointed out to Picard and Maxwell.

"I think we should inform other interested parties that we are only considering previous Federation members at this time. Other applications will not be considered," Picard said definitively.

"That will be an unpopular decision given the number of races that have already expressed interest," Garrett informed Picard.

"It can't be helped. We are Starfleet officers and are sworn to protect and defend the Federation. I must prioritize the protection of Federation worlds, regardless of where they're located. The others will have to wait."

"Yes, Sir."

"Given this request, we'll have to deploy our diplomatic corps to work with Earth and the other Federation worlds. Do you think they're ready, Ben?" Picard asked.

"They've already gained significant experience while working in the embassy. However, preparation for Federation membership is different. I'll institute a new training program when I return. Rachel, I know you're busy with the Alliance, but we could use your help with coaching and mentorship."

"I'm still a Starfleet officer, and my primary responsibility is to the Federation. I will make myself available to our people to offer whatever guidance I can provide."

"Thank you, Rachel. I think we'll adjourn for the evening. You both have speeches to prepare for tomorrow," Picard told the two officers.

"Thank you, Sir. Until tomorrow," Garrett said as she and Maxwell left Picard's office.

Betazed – New Paris

-Next Day-

It was late afternoon in New Paris. The temperature had begun to drop to signify the approaching fall season. The native Betazoids had never experienced the change of seasons. Some of them marveled at the changes to the foliage as the colors began to change, while others wondered if they should have kept the dome just a bit longer. Those opinions, however, were in the minority as many people had taken to exploring the planet since the dome had been removed.

Picard and Sheridan walked along the sparsely populated sidewalk, away from Federation Hall. Sheridan, and several of his cabinet members, had arrived to witness the dedication of the founding of the new Federation city. Sheridan was due to leave for Centauri Prime in the morning and wanted to spend time with his unofficial mentor.

"It looks like Rachel was right. You people really do know how to build a colony," Sheridan said as he looked around at the buildings along the street.

"Indeed. Captain Gam has done an outstanding job in leading the construction and administration of New Paris. He and his team are largely responsible for the city's design, and the crews from our fleet have worked hard to realize that vision," Picard agreed; his muted response didn't reveal his genuine admiration for the accomplishment.

"Rachel's speech was great. I didn't realize how much she was against contacting us. We were very lucky you arrived when you did and were willing to help us," Sheridan said.

"I don't know if I'd use the term luck to describe our situation. Several events had to be set in motion for us to arrive here when we did. I don't know who or what was responsible for us arriving here, but I'm certain luck had nothing to do with it," Picard said, disagreeing with Sheridan.

"I see your point, but then it's a matter of perspective, isn't it?"

"Indeed."

"I'm sorry Rachel couldn't remain here longer to enjoy the festivities. The Brakiri and the Hurr are difficult even under the best circumstances, and now they're threatening to take defeat from the jaws of victory. Unfortunately, she's the only one who can credibly tackle that situation," Sheridan apologized to Picard. Yet again, Sheridan was genuinely sorry that he had asked these people to sacrifice more than their fair share for the rest of them.

"I understand. We all have our responsibilities. She's agreed to come back as soon as that situation is resolved," Picard said.

"I hadn't realized how much I've become used to living on Minbar until I arrived here. The Minbari section is such a small part of the colony," Sheridan said; the Minbari section of town was just barely visible from the city center.

"Minbari architecture is very striking. I enjoy the uniqueness it brings to the city. The Earth Alliance colony ships will be here next week, and I'm curious to see what architectural direction they take.

My apologies, John, but I don't believe that I've formerly congratulated you on your official election as president. To be honest, I never considered you as the interim president. Therefore, I only regarded the election as a formality."

"Thank you, Admiral, but there's no need to apologize. Since I ran unopposed, the election was just a formality."

"Jean-Luc."

"Right, a force of habit. It's going to be hard calling you by your name. I may stick with admiral for a while longer. I can only handle so much change at once," Sheridan said as he smiled at Picard.

"I'm afraid that's a problem we all suffer from. It's unfortunate that our duties don't allow us to talk as we once did."

"You have no idea how much I miss your council. Your words still resonate with me, but I miss having you readily available for your input and thoughts."

"Thank you. Now that you've been in the role for a few months, do you regret accepting the post?" Picard asked Sheridan. He hoped he hadn't misread Sheridan and pushed him into doing something he didn't want to do.

"No. None whatsoever. I knew that it was going to be a tough job, and it's been that and more. However, I wouldn't change a thing," Sheridan answered honestly.

"Good. I'm glad to hear that. I've come to realize that it does little good to regret decisions that you have no control over. The role of president was thrust upon you by me and others. You may have tried to resist it, but it ultimately would have been futile. It's similar to our arrival here. I had a choice to make, and I had the option to make a different choice. Standing here, in this colony, further confirms that I made the right choice."

"Destiny," Sheridan said.

"Destiny," Picard confirmed.

"Is there someplace to get a drink around here?"

"Of course. Guinan's place is only a couple of blocks away. Let's go.

Earth – Geneva - ISN Studios

-Seven Days Later-

"Welcome to ISN. I'm Jessica Young. We are a few minutes away from the President's press conference at Earthdome.

Speculation has run rampant during the past several days since her attendance at the colony dedication ceremony for The United Federation of Planets. Unconfirmed reports have suggested that Starfleet will finally join the Earth Alliance as promised by the President more than a year ago.

Joining us live from Earthdome is Robin Curtis. Robin, what can you tell us?"

"Thanks, Jessica. According to several high-ranking officials I've spoken to, President Luchenko met with Fleet Admiral Picard and his staff to discuss merging both governments. I understand that the meeting was successful and an agreement was reached. I was unable to get any additional details; however, I was told that the president planned to share those details in a few minutes."

"Thanks, Robin, for your report. We will step away for a quick break, then go directly to the press conference. After the press conference, we'll have live reactions to the president's speech here in the studio.

Stay tuned to ISN for the latest news and analysis."

Earth – Earthdome – Press Room

Luchenko walked up to the podium and looked over the assembled press corps. Every news organization had a reporter present as this was expected to be one of the biggest news events in recent human history. She was both excited and nervous as she stood behind the podium.

"To my fellow citizens of the Earth Alliance, I bring you an important announcement. For more than a year, I've promised we would unite with our people from The United Federation of Planets, and today I bring you news related to that promise. During my meeting with Fleet Admiral Picard on Betazed, I officially requested membership in The United Federation of Planets for the Earth Alliance."

The assembled journalists were shocked by the president's announcement. After a few moments, the voices subsided, and Luchenko continued her speech.

"Admiral Picard accepted our application, and we will be allowed to pursue membership. I know many of you are asking why I would ask to join them when the expectation was for them to join us. To be honest, it never made sense for them to join us. They come from a society over a century more advanced than we are, as evidenced by their technology and integration with alien races. We have nothing to offer them, and by asking them to join us, we were asking them to, in many ways, give up their way of life. It was an unreasonable request, and they made it quite clear that they would never join us.

While there were a few dissenting voices, the vast majority of Senate leadership, Earthforce Joint Chiefs, and I are in agreement. If we want to improve humanity's quality of life and our position in the galaxy, we need to unite with them. Joining them was the most expedient way to achieve that goal.

It is important to note that our membership is not instantaneous. We'll need to embark on a multi-year process to prepare for membership, where we'll be required to achieve several milestones. This process will help us improve as a society and reduce the potential culture shock when we become members. As many of you already know, their Earth was a founding member of The United Federation of Planets, the largest government in their galaxy. Now, our Earth will have the same opportunity.

I fully expect us to endure challenges on our journey to join the Federation, perhaps similar to the challenges we've experienced post-Clark. To help us navigate the potential challenges, Starfleet has assigned diplomats who will be available to provide guidance and advice. Vice Admiral Maxwell has also offered to help us. For those who aren't aware of what The United Federation of Planets has to offer, I encourage you to visit their embassy and review the exhibits. The existing Starfleet clinics are but a small example of their capabilities.

Are there any questions?"

"Madam President, you've repeatedly said they would join us. However, you just said that they were never going to join us. Which is it?" one of the reporters asked.

"I'll admit that that was a bit of wishful thinking on my part and that of others. None of us thought that Picard and the others would choose to live in a small, isolated colony when they could live here with us. We were wrong, and visiting that colony demonstrated just how wrong we were."

"Madam President, why must the Earth Alliance join them? Since there are only 10,000 of them, wouldn't it make more sense for them to join us?"

"Well, that was my point of view as well until recently. General Fitzpatrick was instrumental in changing my mind. In his opinion, we had a choice to make. We could continue our recruitment initiative, hoping that they would join us someday, or we could join them. I've heard the complaints about the lack of access to Starfleet technology and the direct impact that has had on many of our citizens. I share that frustration, and I've done everything in my power to convince Starfleet to join us without success. Contrary to what some would have you believe, different voices would have no effect on Starfleet's position. I know many potential presidential hopefuls believe that they would be more successful in negotiations with Starfleet, and to them, I say don't fool yourself. Starfleet doesn't want to compromise their way of life, and I don't blame them."

"Madam President, when will we see more Starfleet technology? Will they open more clinics and hospitals?"

"Not right away. There is a multi-year process to obtain membership. As we complete each milestone, we'll receive more help. Starfleet has limited resources, and Earth isn't their only priority. Please keep in mind that they're doing everything they can to help us while not overwhelming our society. After spending time in their colony, I understand how much their technology will change our way of life. It's truly unbelievable what they take for granted, and I want that for our citizens."

"Madam President, what happens to the Earth Alliance when we join The United Federation of Planets?"

"This is an evolution for humanity. The Earth Alliance will no longer exist but will be replaced by the Federation. Each of our colonies will also become equal members, but I will advocate having Earth as the seat of power for the Federation just as it was in their universe.

I will provide more details as they become available. I ask each citizen in advance for your patience as we endure the growing pains necessary to realize our full potential. We are on the brink of greatness, and we will achieve it. My administration's top priority is to ensure that we complete each membership milestone as quickly as possible.

There is a closing thought that I want to share. Like many of you watching this broadcast, I remember the dark days of the Earth-Minbari War, not knowing whether we would live or die. Most recently, we had to endure the darkness of Clark's abuses of power borne from his paranoia and lust for power. In my opinion, humanity has endured enough darkness. We've learned and grown from those experiences, which has prepared us to take our rightful place beside our brothers and sisters as the leading voice of diplomacy while also being the undisputed leader in advanced technology and military power in the galaxy.

We will become stronger and better together.

Thank you, and good evening."

Earth - San Antonio Texas - O'Dell Home

Maxwell, Rose, Maria, and Jenny were seated in the family room, having just watched the president's news conference. Maxwell remained quiet during the program since he already suspected what the president would say.

"Ben, is that true? Are we joining you?" Rose asked once the press conference finished.

"Well, that remains to be seen, though she formally requested to join us. I'm hopeful that the needed reforms can be implemented. To be honest, I hope she's successful. It's been frustrating seeing Jenny subjected to such inferior education. If she didn't enjoy her school so much, I would pull her out of school and teach her based on our standard curriculum."

"We've talked about this, Ben. We can teach here at home to supplement her classroom lessons," Maria told him.

"That would cause problems for her. I've reviewed some of the science materials taught in your schools, and much of the information is incomplete at best and completely wrong at worst. Your science, biology, and advanced mathematics knowledge are significantly behind ours. There is so much more to the universe than the people of the Earth Alliance know. The president understands this. The next few years will be an exciting time for all of us. I can't wait to see what happens next."

-Author's notes-

This marks the end of this story. Certain plot threads were left deliberately unresolved to allow for a future sequel if ever written. I wanted to tell the complete character arcs of Picard, Maxwell, and Garrett, and I achieved that, plus arcs for characters that I hadn't initially planned to develop. I'm happy with how this story ended, though I will admit that the prose used could have been much better in the hands of a more talented writer. This is the story that I set out to write, with significant contributions from my friend and BETA Ross and story ideas from AlbertG. Without their input, this story would have been a lot less than it is. BIG, thanks, guys.

Until next time.

Darrell