Heart of Darkness

by XFauxAfflictionX

The path to darkness is not always black-and-white, and Khan Noonien Singh's is no different. In his life, he has faced love, loss, pain, and rage. His past may not excuse his actions, but it may help to explain them. (This is an adaptation of the back story of J.J. Abrams' alternate-continuity version of Khan).

9. Chapter 8

Chapter 8

Physician's Log

London, England

Stardate 1994.91

The 73 have been active for little over a month now, and I have begun to see patterns in their behavior. I'm sure the employees at Rowen have noticed the same, but they do not discuss the extent of the project with me. As they continue to inform me, I am here to assist them. So, the information I have on the subjects, I gleaned for myself from observation.

I have taken to watching them as they train and work. I am uncertain just what, exactly, they are training for, but the regimens are intense. It is reminiscent of military training. And every single one of them masters and excels the tasks given to them within days. When they are not training, they are either working, or enjoying leisure time. While I have not been privy to most of it, I am given to understand that their work consists of studying schematics, designing their own, and building various animatronics.

Khan and I have developed something of a working friendship, if he may be said to have such a thing. He seems to genuinely enjoy my company, though I've no idea why. He seems to detest and shy away from the time spent with other humans. Perhaps it is because I'm not like the employees of Rowen—always watching and analyzing him. I simply see him, like any other human being. In fact, I make an effort to disregard the fact that he is different. Although it seemed to frustrate him when his sparring partner Jonathan Harris did so, it seems a welcome change in me.

In the weeks they have been together, I have watched a phenomenal transformation in The 73. Of their own accord, and seemingly without any guidance or law, they have begun to form ranks. They regard each other as equals, of course, but they understand the need for internal regulation and government.

It is no surprise to me that Khan has apparently been elected their leader and representing voice. He trusts them, and they him. He has the mind of a leader—striving for the best solution for the greatest number. Although at times, he has the mind of a military leader—turning to angry and often violent action when the safety or wellbeing of a member of his team is threatened. If kept in check, it is a very noble and dignified quality in a leader. If unchecked, however… I fear what it could become.

Dr. Mara McGivers, MD