Author's Note: SpockLikesCats- thanks for cleaning up the "psycho-speak". All mistakes are mine. I think I got them all, but there are always a few stragglers. Thank you to everyone who has reviewed thus far and those who are putting out alerts and fav's. You all know this wouldn't be a true Lady Fangs story without politics and some heavy academic works tossed in, so with that said, I present Chapter 4. If you've got questions. Leave them in review or PM and I'll answer them. * Apparently... doesn't like my formatting...*
Alekhine's Gun
Chapter 4
One Month Later
Amanda swore under her breath.
Why the hell had she accepted Silek's offer? Now she stood backstage in the great hall of the Federation Civic Center on Star Base 12. The setting was similar to that of the auditorium-style theater that she taught in most days, still….there was something about these seats being filled with over 500 of her peers that unsettled her.
It felt like she was back defending her dissertation in a peer review.
Inhale, exhale…one…two…one…two… She breathed deep, mentally preparing herself. From her position backstage she could hear the final strains of the presenter before her. He was an astrophysicist- and apparently had discovered something called "neutral matter" that thing between light and dark matter that acted as a balancing agent.
It really was interesting…
"…which is why I believe that neutral matter is the bonding agent of the universe…"
Inhale…exhale…one…two….
The burst of applause interrupted her cool-down and she opened her eyes just as one of the stage ushers walked towards her.
"Dr. Grayson, you will be presenting in 5.46 minutes; please take your place at the stage entrance." The usher turned and guided her to the stage stairs. She sighed at his back and grabbed her PADD. Ugh.
These events were the downside of being an academic, but alas, they were a necessary evil.
Still, despite her jittery nerves, she was excited. This was new research. And maybe, just maybe the Vulcan delegation, after hearing her thesis, would offer insight…
Knowledge speaks, but wisdom listens, she thought ruefully. Well, here goes it.
Amanda climbed the stairs just as the usher announced her.
She moved onto the stage and into the lights and was greeted by polite applause.
With a nod of acknowledgment to the announcer, she quickly swept across the stage, placing her PADD on the podium and picking up the amplifier.
No longer nervous, she moved into lecture mode. As her eyes adjusted to the overhead lights, she no longer focused on the individual faces in the crowd…but on her task at hand. What good is knowledge if there is no one to share it with…
Amanda spared a moment to observe the audience. The humans and other groups moved a bit in their seats. The Vulcans sat stoically still, but something was changing in the air. It felt…electric. And for the first time that day she found her stride and began truly enjoying herself, opening her mouth, and jumping full-on in to her presentation….
*"In the arena of social behavior and mother-offspring relationships, Harry Harlow could easily and appropriately be called the "father of touch research." His "deprivation and wire mother" research remains among those classic studies in the evolving history of psychology. However, we are only recently discovering just how very important Harlow's work was…"
.
.
*"…And that leads us to the all-important question, 'Why are some cultures so adverse to affectionate touch?' What could possibly interfere with so powerful and basic a hunger as touch, one that appears so inherently rewarding? One answer is the word "philosophy." Cultural philosophies can also strongly influence the touch behaviors of a culture. And they do, which is why it is seemingly illogical to oppose such a basic, inherent desire…"
As soon as Amanda finished her close she was instantly shook out of her own reverie by the sound of thunderous applause. As she looked around the auditorium her colleagues were standing on their feet, clapping wildly.
She couldn't help but smile. But as the applause died away her eyes settled on one section in particular- the Vulcan delegation.
They were a group of twenty, and all had remained quiet and still as she delivered her presentation. There were no smiles or any acknowledgment of any kind of emotion. Amanda knew it was not their nature to express emotion, but for some inexplicable reason…their demeanor made her…nervous.
She shook it off as the question and answer session began and she focused on doing her best to explain her theories…
II
Silek sat in the front row, his attention focused on the current presentation. He had to admit, Dr Grayson's "take" on humanoid development was intrinsically fascinating, and though she did not verbally name Vulcans, the implications of her work were laid very bare. Frankly, he thought she was rather bold in her assumptions.
He knew more than anyone how much of his race's apparent aloofness was a sham. 'Logic offers a serenity humans seldom experience," was something his father had once told him, and to an extent it was true. However, he had never completely mastered the binding art of C'Thia. And as he grew older, he had begun to realize the value of leaving oneself at least partially open to emotion.
Contrary to many others, Silek did not believe that logic was an absolute. He was far from being one of the V'tosh K'tur- for he could see the rationale in limiting one's passions. But complete denial of them had never sat well in his soul.
T'Pau would often remark that many of his displays were unseemly for a male of his rank and house- and yet, she also knew of his struggles. There had been a time that he considered Kohlinahr, but there upon the sandy rocks of Gol…he realized it was not for him.
The emotions of his clan were so strong, so powerful…and he learned to temper them…to channel them. And years later, he was now more at peace and comfortable with who and what he was.
But it was also a strain, for in public, he knew he must keep up appearances. There were many who felt him to be weak. And yet, as the younger brother, his position granted him a serenity he knew his sibling would never be allowed to experience.
In turn, this bothered him greatly. There was an old legend on his world…of two brothers following different paths. It was the time of the great divide…In truth he and Sarek acted as a system of checks and balances…Silek could voice what Sarek could not…and Sarek could contain what Silek could not.
Whereas Silek had never had many problems with control…Sarek…was a different story.
He cast a stray eye sideways to his brother sitting next to him as Doctor Grayson continued to speak.
The expression of much of our sexuality occurs through touch and the largest organ of our body is our skin. Also, there is a growing body of writings, theory, and research in the field of touch that is of extreme importance to the studies of human development, health, and sexuality…
He had lived most of his life in the shadow of Sarek. Both males had been trained in the deadly arts, as well as in the philosophies. Yet…Sarek had many of the same problems that he did…only…much more volatile.
At times he wondered how his brother managed to contain it…he could not fathom such a burden and a pressure. As clan heir Sarek COULD NOT fail. Any slips were a sign of weakness where non could be afforded, and over time it had hardened him in the eyes of many.
But Silek knew better. Under that icy shell was a tumultuous sea of emotion. If his brother had any flaws… they were the passions that roiled inside of him. Dark. Angry. Possessive. Lustful.
They were both extremely powerful telepaths, and there had been many a time when he had had to temper his brother- to project to him a calm that was not there. To stop an outburst that threatened to break. Sarek had a vicious temper. Nor did he forgive and forget.
We wear the mask…Silek mused to himself.
His eyes shifted back to the stage as he continued listening.
*Prescott discovered that a culture's affectionate touch with infants and children was about seventy-percent accurate in predicting the degree of violence in a society. Since he was of the opinion that affectionate touch is vital to humans of all ages, he examined societies which were tolerant of adolescent sexual-affectional behaviors. He found this variable to also be about seventy- percent accurate in its ability to predict non-violent from violent societies…
Suddenly, in the midst of his private musings he was mentally hit by a tidal wave- a dark, roiling emotion that he knew had not originated with him…
The crowd jumped to their feet around them the sounds of applause echoing as the doctor finished her presentation.
Try as he might…he could not temper the emotions coming from his brother…and Silek suddenly knew...that Dr. Grayson had inadvertently made a very big enemy.
III
"Dr. Prescott made his research known in the middle 21st Century. But today, scientists and researchers are finding that his work is not just limited to humanoids and species relative to Earth…"
Sarek sat stoically in the front row, his attention riveted on the human female in front of him.
He watched as she paced the stage, speaking about various developmental theories, as he waited for her to state her case. He recognized her attempts at engaging her audience, where the other presenters had not. He had learned that most were receptive to such methods of presentation. Though it was not necessary for them, he was content in the fact that she seemed at ease and well-versed in her subject matter. The day had been filled with presentations from various scientists, and his own mind had found them each somewhat interesting…if a bit late in their analyses.
Most of the things being brought were considered "recent" in terms of the races that had discovered them, but were somewhat "old news" on his home planet.
It was well-known that their people were technologically superior to most other Federation members. But what was not known was the extent of that advancement.
He focused back on Dr. Grayson.
"He was about seventy-percent accurate in the ability to predict violent from non-violent Earth species. Today that work can be transcribed and updated. Employing many criteria, there is overwhelming evidence to suggest that this philosophy of thought can be extended beyond Humans, to include most known humanoid species as well. Humans, Andorians… and Vulcans."
Suddenly, Dr. Grayson had his full attention as she delivered the final portion of her presentation. And he found himself growing increasingly displeased with the implications of her research. How she had come to such conclusions he did not know…She was known to the high council from her previous work…but this…
"…And that leads us to the all-important question, 'Why are some cultures so aversive to affectionate touch? What could possibly interfere with so powerful and basic a hunger as touch? One answer is the same we can insert to explain many cultural differences. The word is "philosophy". Surely a philosophy can also strongly influence the touch behaviors of a culture. And, surely, one does, which is why it is seemingly illogical to oppose such a basic, inherent desire. Touch is the basic manifestation of emotion. Lack of touch is tied to lack of emotion, and touch is important to mental growth. Therefore, a lack of emotion is developmentally detrimental…"
The full implications formed immediately in his mind as she finished and he remained seated while the rest of the auditorium erupted in cheers.
And he was furious. Did she have any idea of what she was postulating? Could she possibly know the impact that this could have on his home world…It had taken his people over five-thousand years…and yet this…THIS…human, had just effectively rendered the mask shattered He could not allow her to continue. He WOULD NOT allow her to continue…
Sarek watched Dr. Grayson as she bowed to the audience and bid his time for the question-and-answer session. He could feel his brother probing at his mind and he purposefully blocked Silek from his thoughts, his eyes narrowing and focusing on the human female.
He would do what was logical, knowing that his brother would argue that just because something was logical, did not make it right.
IV
Amanda beamed. She had been nervous only minutes before, worried about how well her thesis would be received, but judging by the applause, apparently she had been worried for nothing.
As her reception began to die down she ran one hand down the sleek, grey skirt of her suit. Though she did not consider herself a material person, if there was one thing every woman enjoyed, she included, it had to be clothes.
This was by far her favorite. The skirt clung in all the right places and was fitted to her body. It stopped right past the knee and was Andorian silk- a light silvery-grey. The matching jacket was slim and fitting, with a wide shoulder and arm-hugging sleeves.
She felt sexy and powerful and confident whenever she wore it.
As the announcer began his introduction and explanations for the Q & A session Amanda took a few steps to the side. She lifted the water bottle perched on a stool to her mouth and took a small sip.
Satisfied, she moved back to the center, feeling every inch the consummate, confident professional.
Striding back to center stage she cast a nod in the announcer's direction and began taking questions…
She had just finished answering a rather long-winded and highly complex question from a Zenobian whom she suspected simply wanted to hear himself speak, when her attention was drawn to a tall, dark figure rising.
Her eyes moved in his direction and she suppressed the slight shiver that crept up her back as she waited for him to ask his question.
He did not smile, but his dark eyes bore into her and Amanda knew it was illogical to think he was angry, but-
"Doctor Grayson."
His deep rumbling voice echoed through her, and he did not even have to raise it as, upon his rising, the entire auditorium fell silent.
It was now so quiet Amanda could hear the dim hum of electrical equipment.
She brushed the feeling off and turned to acknowledge the speaker.
"Yes. Please go ahead with your question."
The face in front of her remained still and placid. His lips set in a thin line.
"I would like to discuss your conclusions. Throughout your presentation you cite research gleaned prior to Earth's new enlightenment, yet you have no scientific basis of current research to defend your hypothesis. "I find your method of study inadequate, if not completely flawed, based on your premise."
She felt herself bristle at his insinuation, but remained calm as she issued her counter-point.
"I beg to differ with your opinion, considering the number of works that exist both prior to and immediately following the enlightenment. Based upon developmental similarities in all known humanoids, the Touch Imperative is an inherent biological compunction and wholly natural."
His eyes had not moved from her person and she didn't even remember him blinking as those dark eyes bore into hers. She met his cool stare evenly, her own eyes flickering in warning. He ignored it and in an even voice, issued his own retort.
"And based upon your… conjecture you feel this touch theory relates to all known humanoids. Yet Earth and your scientists lack the full course of knowledge in order to prove your theory beyond a measurable doubt."
The disdain dripped from his words, although his tone remained even, unemotional.
At this, she felt her blood go hot and as she began hearing a low murmur throughout the room. So…this…Vulcan wanted to play semantics…she could do that… She bore down.
"As you know, sir, certain cultures have not made of a complete record of their history, while others are more open. In the interest of science, we would all hope that as more information is put forth, more input is given as to the accuracy of our suppositions. But this cannot exist without cooperation."
As soon as the words left her mouth he came back with a reply.
"It has repeatedly transpired in your Earth history that knowledge gained through cooperation with other species, even in the pursuit of science, has been used to malign the culture which has bargained in good faith."
Suddenly…she felt a white-heat shoot through her…was he implying—
She opened her mouth to retort but was quickly cut off as he spoke ahead of her.
"Furthermore, your presentation appears to be based on conjecture rather than observable fact."
At this there was a more than audible gasp and Amanda felt her face flush. Suddenly…she knew she was in the middle of a battle. And all semblance of the calm, cool professional Dr. Grayson fled and "Mandy" came out with a vengeance.
Narrowing her eyes at him and steeling her voice she issued her final retort:
"Throughout this…debate, you have repeatedly questioned my method but have not challenged my conclusion. That leads me to believe that your sole opposition to my thesis is due to its implications and not its overall merit. Therefore I must conclude that I have said something that obviously offends you."
As soon as the words left her mouth she knew that was NOT the best way to handle his challenge. But it was too late.
Immediately the room burst into excited chatter and she suddenly panicked. There was noise all around her and a roaring sound in her ears. The overhead lights became unbearable and she was both mortified and pissed at the same time.
Suddenly the usher rushed back onto stage and quickly announced a forty-five minute break.
She cast a glance over to the Vulcan delegation, all of whom rose is one fluid motion and began to file out of the chambers one by one.
She noticed Silek striding next to the male who had grilled her as she quickly gathered up her PADD and moved backstage.
Quickly she pushed through the small crowd that had gathered to speak with her, begging off as she moved into the hallway, down the stairs and ultimately out of the rear door of the auditorium.
She stepped into the night breeze. The buzz in her ears stilled suddenly as the door closed behind her, temporarily leaving her alone to process her thoughts.
Had she really just done that? Had she really just insulted a Vulcan? One of the same group whom she had hoped to impress so that they would contribute to her work? Had she really just insulted ad quite possibly permanently alienated them?
Amanda cursed mentally, closing her eyes and inhaling deeply as the back of her head hit the solid outer wall of the atrium.
You've done it now, Grayson. Your mouth just wrote a check you may not be able to cash.
.
.
Silek remained silent until they were out of the auditorium and seated in their transport back to the hotel. As soon as the doors swooshed closed he activated the privacy shield between them and the driver and turned on his brother. They were the only two people in the craft as it lifted off the platform and began to move across the city.
"Sarek that was uncalled for. What reason do you have for launching such a line of questioning?"
Sarek sat opposite to him on the transport, his hands placed carefully in his lap. Silek didn't like the look on his face.
"Dr. Grayson's research was flawed. Her conclusions were not drawn on observable—"
"You did not answer the question, brother, so perhaps I should rephrase." Silek cut him off. They were of the same blood, and he had lived long enough with his sibling to know when he was mincing words.
"Very well. It is simple. Dr. Grayson's work implies that five-thousand years of Vulcan evolution and the development of logic is unnatural. The High Command would have censured her, had I not."
Silek sniffed and was silent a moment before replying.
"I have often wondered if we have become zealous in our pursuit of absolute logic."
Sarek quirked an eyebrow at him and answered in a low tone, laced with words unspoken.
"You, above all others, should know our logic binds what we cannot control."
At that…Silek sat back saying nothing. What he wanted to say could be said aloud as he stared at Sarek. The elder brother stared back unwaveringly.
He could feel the presence probing at the edges of his mind and he raised his mental shields. He would need to meditate on this. On his brother….there was a human term that he had learned that seemed to fit Sarek at this moment. He felt the expletive quite fitting.
*Amanda's presentation- Words and text taken from Touch and Human Sexuality. Hatfield, Robert W., Human Sexuality: An Encyclopedia; Garland Publishing, NY 1994
Based largely on Harlow's controversial "Wire Mother" experiments
(Sarek and Amanda- because this is how brainiacs insult each other)