-1IDIC - New Frontiers
By : FireStar
Beta Terry
Any mistakes after are Lisa's alone.
Disclaimers: Gene Roddenberry and the Corporations own Star Trek and all TOS characters. Any others are inventions of the Author.
Summary: This is a sequel to IDIC New Beginnings. Amanda and Sarek are now married by Earth standards and have begun their journey to Vulcan. An unexpected outbreak on an Andorian colony requires the Surak to lend humanitarian aid. The Surak is attacked but escapes. In an effort to avoid war the colony's Governor Felix gives a reception honoring the Vulcan's assistance. Amanda uses this to help foster better relations. Sarek, unwilling to disappoint his new bride and seeing an opportunity, allows her to invite them home to Vulcan.
Part 11 (Bragging Rights) G
It seems our children have made it back to Vulcan safe and sound. Lucian said to Harmony.
Yes, They have even perhaps found a way to begin a true relationship with Michael's Andorrans. That is promising given that they are opposites.
Yes Fire and Ice. How life managed to take in so different of planets still astounds me. Lucian said
Why? Andoria is water rich. Michael said smugly.
It is a frozen wasteland.
Lucian responded.
Well Vulcan was forged in Hades.
Michael responded. In all my time on Vulcan only one mind did I
find interesting.
Michael I am sorry she had to be sacrificed. One would think you wanted her for yourself.
Perhaps ….I did. Michael said Remembering T' Rea She had a pure soul. He considered what he had done.
Allowing
her to hide her son Sybok. His son. No he done the right thing. She
deserved a part of her to go on. A simple thing really to take the
form of a mortal. He knew that any scan would show Sybok as Sarek's
but he knew the boy was his. It was his will that allowed the
conception and his will that hid the fact so the bonding could end.
He was and always would protect his son. He looked down at his son
and his beloved. She believed he had been Sarek when he gone to her.
She was his. She was free. Why would they not let him have her? He
sighed and resolved to think about it more. His son was asleep and
his mother was studying the Kasharia. Soon she be the priestess she
wanted to be. She would have her peace. He shimmered away from his
companions and went to look at Sybok. Already the boys mind was far
superior to most Vulcan's. He was the future not the human /Vulcan
union. Perhaps when it came time they would allow her to evolve.
Surely her sacrifice of her life made her worthy to become one of
them.
Part 12 (Prime Directive is Born) PG
The
meeting had gone well and the decision to send several Vulcan science
vessels out toward the edge of the neutral zone had been agreed upon.
The need for dylitium crystals meant that exploration was now needed.
Skon listened as the newest design specifications were explained. He
could appreciate the power the new scanners would bring to the
endeavor. He had to admit the goals were worthy ones. Sarek listened
and then raised his first concern.
"Minster Tulon is it not possible that the Klingons will see this exploration as a possible threat to their Empire?"
"With respect this area is not claimed by the Klingon Empire."
"Indeed it is considered neutral territory a buffer zone. If mining operations begin surely that would change." Sarek pointed out.
"This is only a survey by a science vessel." Minister Tulon explained. "We must find new sources of power."
Sarek steepled his fingers and considered his next words with care. "This is true but the vessels you are sending to due this survey are lightly armed. I am not a strong believer in the military neither should we send them so close without proper protection?"
"Indeed which is why it will be escorted by the Starfleet's USS Intrepid and USS Columbia A."
Sarek rose abruptly "That is to ensure conflict. The Klingon Empires sees Starfleet as a military organization. We can not allow this. Indeed even if there is no conflict Earth and her people will want mining rights and will not necessarily be guided by us. Already they chafe at the idea of non-interference with less advanced cultures."
"Indeed." T' Pau said "We have anticipated this and have developed a plan to protect other worlds."
"What plan?" Sarek asked He was very curious about a possible way to contain the Humans aggressive expansion.
"We call it the Prime Directive. "She passed a Pad to Sarek and Skon. "When you return to Earth and the Federation council this will be introduced. Warn them that if they fail to pass this Vulcan will leave the Federation. We can no longer fight to protect each world from the Terrans greed. They must begin to mature and do it themselves."
Sarek read the Pad and nodded. "It will be difficult to pass but it will be a guide. Indeed it is perhaps the best thing for us to implement."
Skon set his Pad down and silently applauded T' Pau's actions. This was a tool that could be used to curb all the races in the Federation and perhaps make it easier to prevent cultural contamination. It was a fact that Vulcan had had a hard time with Earth. Logic had little chance when confronting humanities emotions. They had been most fortunate that war had not broken out in the early days. No this Prime Directive would also make it easier for Vulcan to trust Starfleet. Perhaps even allow some of her citizens to serve on non- Vulcan ships. That had always been a disagreeable point that Vulcan did not have members on non- Vulcan controlled ships. Their only true representative had been T'Pol and that had been out of pragmatism and latter by her preference.
Part 13 (Manners) PG
It had been a good workout. T' Mara had watched with care each of Daniel's moves. He had managed to follow the exercise program relatively well. He even appeared to be breathing easier. She knew however it would take several weeks for his human body to begin to compensate for the higher gravity and lower oxygen level of Vulcan.
Daniel walked over and ordered water from the replicator. Two glasses appeared and he handed one to T' Mara. She took the water a little hesitantly but then began sip it slowly. Daniel swallowed his quickly. He looked at her confused. "May I inquire why you hesitated? Did I offend you in some way?"
T' Mara looked at Daniel. She cocked her head and tried to think of a way to explain this to him. He was from a water rich world. A world that took water for granted it was often used frivolously or at least it appeared that way to a Vulcan. How cold she explain that water was life? That the males usually provided it for the females and it could be considered a courting gesture. He had not intended this action. She understood he had only been acting socially polite. She recalled several occasions at the embassy where he had carelessly tossed a bottle of water to Amanda or an other member of her family. It was a simple cutesy to him.
"I believe we will need to instruct you on etiquette as well as martial arts." She said
"Please explain." He said
"Sit Daniel and we will begin. Though perhaps it would be wiser to have T'Sia T' Lara teach you."
"No, Please… I do not wish to seem inept. Please explain to what I did wrong? I only meant to satisfy your thirst."
"The gesture was most kind Daniel." T' Mara said she waited until he sat as she was cross legged. " Water is very important on Vulcan."
He looked at her uncertain about this lesson. What had he done wrong? He listened as he sipped his drink. Perhaps gulping it had been poor manners?
T' Mara waited until Daniel settled down. She looked at him and realized he was quite young. She still believed he had potential and she wanted to help him excel. She had watched him work very hard this morning and she had to admit it took courage to charge a male of Skon' s stature and skills. She also knew that the air had been hard on Daniel yet he had tried to continue despite the difficulty he had breathing. Then he had served her first. This impressed her greatly and she knew he had only been acting as his planets customs would demand. Yet Daniel was now on Vulcan and would have to adjust.
"Water is vital to life here. It is a valuable resource. When water is offered to an individual it is a ceremony. A way to agree to stay for a visit or it can be seen as a courtship ritual. An unbounded male may offer water to and unbounded female and seek to encourage her to accept his attentions. It would be a way to signal interest."
Now Daniel cocked his head. " Did I offend? I know you accepted water from T' Lara this morning. We worked out hard. I believed it was only right to offer refreshments. Was this wrong? "He paused. ""I have said I would court you? How should I have done this properly?"
T' Mara
sipped her drink and then began to explain.
-----
Amanda
unpacked and went to find T' Lara. She wanted to begin to learn her
way around and hoped her mother in law would go with her to go
shopping.
T' Lara cleared away the dishes and sat down to read
her check her mail. As she responded to various inquires she made
note. Several speaking arrangements would need to be adjusted because
of Skon's new position. She was not displeased at this event because
it would allow her greater time to do more in depth research.
She
looked up as Amanda descended the stairs.
"Mother I would like to borrow the flitter." Amanda said. " I am afraid I will need lighter clothing. I was hoping perhaps you could offer me assistance? I am afraid that I need help with picking out the proper garments."
T' Lara looked up from her work. She was ready for a break and the request was reasonable. She was pleased that Amanda was asking for advice on what was proper attire. " I would be happy to assist. However I believe we also must stop at the office of transport. You will need to obtain the proper permits to operate the flitter."
"I thought Sarek said my Earth permit would be sufficient?"
"It may be used temporarily this is true. It would however be wise to obtain permeate documents. I could also take you to the banks and arrange for your new accounts. Sarek had planned to do this tomorrow for you but if we can finish this today perhaps you can both spend that time together."
Amanda looked up clearly shocked.
"Sara explained to me that newly married humans expect to spend time with their mated. Your mother called this a Honeymoon and Sara said it was custom."
Smiling Amanda nodded "It is . Thank you for offering this. I know you have a busy schedule."
"I do have work to finish. The break would be welcome. Sometimes it is more productive to change ones routine. I find the problem is not working out. Perhaps a break will allow me to find an alternative solution."
"I agree. It gives you time to think away from the problem. Is there anything I could do to offer assistance?"
T' Lara considered. She had been trying to find a way to raise funds for the Vulcan Elders home. While many on Vulcan cared for their elderly sometime that was not possible. The home was designed to give medical care and as much freedom and dignity as possible. The State supported the institution generously but her committee often raised funds for special trips or activities. Things designed to stimulate the mind and keep the residents active.
"We have been attempting to raise funds for a trip."
"What kind of trip?" Amanda asked.
"A trip to the monastery at Regiel IX. Several residents requested this."
"What about an dinner and auction?" Amanda suggested "I believe Sarek said several of the residents were artists. Perhaps they would donate work. I know he thinks T' Reva has work that is inspiring."
"How would this work." T' Lara asked
Amanda smiled and knew she found definite common ground with her mother- in-law. Fundraising was something she had done from childhood. She almost pitied her new world because they never know what hit them. Few in the Galaxy could raise money for charity like a Grayson.
Part 14(Guidance) PG
"Mother perhaps it would be wise to obtain the documentation first."
"Logical as we will need the funds to shop. Come I will drive us. "She got into the flitter that had been pulled around to the front.
Amanda got in and fastened the belt. She was surprised that T' Lara was driving. Her own parents rarely drove themselves and while they had been on Earth T' Lara and Skon had a driver. T' Lara moved the flitter with practiced ease.
"We should arrive at the bank in 5.4 minutes." T' Lara explained.
"I think it is a good idea for me to exchange currency." Amanda said
"Exchange it? Why would you need to do this?" T' Lara asked
Amanda looked at her confused.
"Sarek has set up several accounts for you. "T' Lara explained
"Mother I have my own funds." Amanda said
T' Lara's brow raised a fraction. "Sarek would wish to provide for you., as Skon and I will provide for Daniel."
"I see, but I did not marry Sarek for money."
T' Lara looked at Amanda briefly seeing her confusion.
"Sarek knows this. He is male and a clan leader it is his duty to provide for you who are his wife."
"This is a cultural directive and tradition?" Amanda asked.
"Indeed. A male Vulcan must provide for his mate. It is a matter of honor." T' Lara explained.
Amanda nodded thinking it sounded more like pride. It was a small thing to grant however and she had no wish to hurt Sarek's feelings or to make him lose face. "I did not understand. Of course I will be guided by you and the family in this."
T' Lara nodded satisfied Amanda was learning to listen to her elders.
Part 15 (Exhaustion and Education) PG
Daniel came out of the sonic shower and collapsed on his bed. He ached all over from the workout and laid there looking up at the ceiling. He felt totally inept and hated that feeling. He rolled over and grabbed his headphones. He placed them on his ears and turned on the music loud. He laid back to think about how his life had changed and how he had so much to learn. He was excited and scared but knew he was going to make it. He was a hard worker and determined. He had a goal in mind now. The idea of his entering Starfleet was now pushed aside. It had only ever been a way to gain an education and to travel. Now he had options. He considered Sarek's offer to become an aide. That would be exciting and rewarding work. He laid there and considered how his life had changed and how it offered so many new possibilities. Daniel considered that he could not go into the fleet for an other reason. He did not wish to leave T' Mara. He wanted more then friendship with the Vulcan. He knew she think it illogical but for him it had been love at first sight. Now all that remained was getting her to agree. He was young but not foolish enough to toss his happiness away. Just working out today had been joyful. How much more would a full life together be? He closed his eyes and pictured a little girl with T' Mara's eyes and ears and he smiled. He hoped the baby have blond hair just to shake up the staid Vulcan race. He grinned suddenly feeling happy.
T' Mara began to dress after her sonic shower. He pulled on a clean uniform tunic and sat on her bed. Like most of the security staff she had quarters on the estate. She leaned back and considered Daniel and his request to court her. Logically she should discourage him. She was over 15 years older then he. Yet he had a logical point when stating they were biologically the same age developmentally. He was human and emotional.
She pulled on her boots and considered how refreshing that fact was. He never hid what he was feeling. She realized that appealed to her. She also knew he was striving to learn some control and that to was refreshing. He was loyal and a hard worker. He believed in IDIC and was striving to learn an alien culture with the goal to be an example of what could be. She found that a worthy quality. Physically he was aesthetically pleasing to look at. He was still growing and in time would exceed her height. He was strong for a human and quick. Logically he was a possible match. She laid back and closed her eyes doing calculations to see if it was possible.
T'Mara pictured a future for them and found it was easy to do. She saw Daniel carrying a small little girl on his shoulders and they were walking in the dessert near her families home.
T' Kara and T' Mir both approved of Daniel so he would have friends in the family. Would her father and mother be as accepting ? Her father embraced IDIC fully and would likely only be concerned that Daniel could provide. T' Mara dismissed that need. He was now of Skon' s house so that would not be an issue. Even if he had not been of that great house her own work was well compensated. She was shocked to realize she absorbed that Terran custom of being self sufficient. Then there was the fact that Daniel was intelligent and hard working. She had no doubt that what ever career he picked would be well compensated.
Her mother was more traditional and would worry that Daniel would not be there for her always. That was a valid concern. Humans lived shorter lives. T' Mara put the towel in the recycler and put on her shirt. Could she marry a human knowing she would most likely outlive him? Would she be able to stand the grief of losing him? Wait grief? Could it be she already had chosen? She sat down and thought it over. Yes she wanted the human boy/man. The thought of losing him hurt. She felt that pain already. If she did not allow this relationship a chance she still hurt. So logically she had to see it could work. If it did they would have over 80 years together and who could say what the future would bring.
Amanda looked at her confused.
"Sarek has set up several accounts for you. "T' Lara explained
"Mother I have my own funds." Amanda said
T' Lara's brow raised a fraction. "Sarek would wish to provide for you., as Skon and I will provide for Daniel."
"I see, but I did not marry Sarek for money."
T' Lara looked at Amanda briefly seeing her confusion.
"Sarek knows this. He is male and a clan leader it is his duty to provide for you who are his wife."
"This is a cultural directive and tradition?"
Amanda asked.
------------------------
TBC….
