A/N: Much appreciation for those who read and reviewed my latest chapter. Hannah, it was great to hear from you again. Please be sure to keep them coming, as I would love to know what everyone thinks. Thank you!

Continuous thanks to Hannah, my co-conspirator and center of inspiration.

Nervousness had not entered her mind. It was more the anticipation of events than anything else. The day for the session with the High Council had come at last.

The cavernous Ministry structure had tall walls of solid rock, and Lauren had to tilt her head all the way back in order to see the high ceiling. Some of the massive windows also stretched as long, letting in an incredible amount of light, but it was not blinding to the occupants. Lauren noted how the appearance of her surroundings reminded her of their home. Though Vulcans were incredibly advanced in the realm of science, it amazed her how steeped in tradition and ancestry they were when it came to structures. This was also true for a number of aspects in their lives. They did not forget where it was they had come from. What a beautiful notion.

Lauren was patient and calm, listening to words being uttered beside her. She and T'Nuur were seated upon a bench out in the great hallway of the Ministry building, awaiting Sarek's return. He was finalizing details with the ministers before their meeting was to take place. While they waited, T'Nuur briefed Lauren on Vulcan customs during Council meetings, and how she ought to present herself. Her ears took in as much a she thought she could possibly remember.

At least she was dressed appropriately. Robes of pale purple donned Lauren's small frame, which Sarek had had specially tailored for her. The material was flowing and light, and caused her dark green pendant to stand out dramatically on her chest. She found that, despite her calm, there was a small comfort in having that piece around her neck today. In addition, T'Nuur had pulled her hair back into six intricate braids, a style she had not expected, but was impressed by. As declared by her uncle, she looked "suitable" for the formalities of the Council meeting. His observation pleased her.

One braid hung low by her shoulder, and she toyed with it, rubbing it between her fingers as her attendant kept speaking. A fraction of her wished Spock was here. T'Nuur's presence was comforting, but not the same as what she felt with her cousin. Despite her feelings, she forced herself to push the thoughts down. It was time to be strong, and prove that the situation on Vulcan II would be ideal for her.

Moments later, there was movement from the corner of her eye. She turned to spy Sarek making his way toward them from the end of the hall, and she immediately stood to receive him, smoothing the fabric of her robes. T'Nuur assisted, making sure there were no smudges of dust on her back. When ready, she gave him a smile.

He looked at her, still approving underneath his careful countenance. "The Council is ready to see us, Lauren."

Without her permission, her heart fluttered a few quick beats. Drawing in a breath, she released it slowly through her nose. "Okay."

Placing an arm around her shoulders, he guided her down the hall, toward the largest set of ornate doors at the end. T'Nuur followed a couple paces behind. "You will not need to worry about not comprehending our language, as we will be speaking in Federation Standard." She nodded. "The members of the Council have previously reviewed your files, so it is possible they are aware of our intent and purpose today."

This she understood, but simply repeated, "Okay." After a moment, she fixed her posture and squared her shoulders. "Guess we better find out what they know, huh?"

"Indeed, Lauren." He momentarily reminded her of a few key mannerisms, and felt she was adequately prepared to go before the Council.

She was used to people staring at her on this planet, since she was different from others. However, being within the High Council's chamber was a sensation unlike what she had grown accustomed to. Several feet above their heads, the ministers were seated, and they were looking down on her. Not so much on Sarek, but on her. Glancing around, she could sense their eyes boring into her, attempting to penetrate the cool exterior she presented.

For the first time since her arrival on Vuclan II, Lauren felt herself swallow out of pure nervousness.

After the trio offered the Vulcan salute to the ministers, Sarek moved to the center of the circular room, while Lauren and T'Nuur stood close by. He began the procedure of salutations and opening words, voice clear and even to those who presided over them. While he spoke, Lauren took time to memorize the faces of these important figures. Men and women, she noticed, a pretty equal ratio, all seated at the same height. No one superior to the other. Not all of them appeared elderly, but they did have one thing in common: they seemed to possess many years of wisdom and discipline in their features. She would not say it aloud, but she was intimidated in their presence. It was a feeling she had not had in her life before, not with other humans on Earth. She had always been able to convince herself that their opinions had no value to her. For some reason, though, she could not conjure up that same feeling here. Staring up at the high-ranking Vulcans made her feel only inches tall.

Out of all the ministers on the panel, one in particular became her focal point, one who seemed to radiate the most power, despite the equality among the group. This was T'Pau, whose face was more matured than those seated beside her, but also the most vibrant. Her pointed ears stuck out from beneath her dark, severely styled hair. Anyone involved in Starfleet was familiar with the Vulcan leader's reputation, and Lauren was no exception. T'Pau held a seat of great importance in government, before and after the destruction of Vulcan. She re-emerged as the powerful leader she always had been, helping to guide her people to rebuild their shattered civilization, being one of the first to establish the new colony. She was a symbol of unyielding strength, and had earned respect from her people and various races across the universe. Standing before her, Lauren was in awe.

It was then that her uncle's voice slowly faded back into her ears. She had not even realized his words were not registering. "…and we again express our gratitude in allowing us to come before you today." Sarek was confident of the meeting's outcome, and would do all in his power to achieve what Lauren deserved. As usual, he did not falter in his speech, but he was emphasizing assurance in his tone. He hoped it would touch the young girl's ears and aid in calming her, since he sensed apprehension from where she stood. "As you are aware, ministers, the child standing with before you," he indicated with a sweep of his hand, "is my niece, Lauren Grayson-Reed, daughter of the late Jonathan Grayson and Sarah Reed of Earth." Of course, they all turned eyes to her. "I am certain you are all aware of their recent deaths, as they were brilliant members of Starfleet. Their losses are great, and their memories should be honored."

T'Pau's gaze was intent upon Lauren, analyzing the small alien child before her with an unreadable face. Sarek noticed and watched his colleague carefully, feeling his protectiveness for the child billow beneath his chest. The subtle glances might have been affecting her more than she wanted to admit. "There is a matter of great importance we wish to discuss with you."

T'Pau stood slowly, making herself appear to grow taller than anyone in the chamber. Lauren unconsciously tilted her chin up as she rose. "Ambassador Sarek," her aged voice announced, "many have the times been when we have sat together as representatives of our world, discussing matters to further benefit our people. This day, however, I must inquire of you a factor I have not had to question you on before: are our ways for outsiders?"

Lauren froze, even felt the blood in her veins freeze. It was a question regarding her. Oh man…

But Sarek had not flinched. "One would hardly refer to family as 'outsiders.' And she seeks only to strengthen her mind, not exploit Vulcan methods or customs."

So much of her wanted to cry out in agreement, to verify the truth in what he said. She did no such thing. Instead, she clenched her little fists to release a bit of tension, and continued to watch T'Pau, whose mask remained the same.

Another Vulcan leaned forward in his seat. "Your purpose on this day is not unclear, Sarek, but I ask that you state the reason aloud for requesting an audience with us."

Sarek's chest lifted subtly. "We will avoid long explanations to move events along. Following the deaths of her parents, I have obtained legal guardianship of Lauren. It is my desire, and I feel my duty, to provide her with a place to truly call home. I am requesting that she may be granted citizenship in our world."

Silence. Long, eerie, suffocating silence. At least, from the human's perspective…

But T'Pau had, like the other Vulcans in the room, remained stone-faced at the announcement. "A human of Earth seeks citizenship in a Vulcan society. Only one other time has a request such as this been made."

"This is correct. Amanda Grayson, my wife, was granted citizenship following our marriage."

"An extenuating circumstance," a different minister said coolly.

"I do not treat it as such," he was quick to point out. "Her aunt's bond to me was legal, and therefore she was permitted the chance to live with me on Vulcan. Lauren's situation is no different. On Earth, she is not considered an adult until she reaches eighteen years of age. Until that time, she is required to be cared for, and I have claimed this responsibility. Since my custody of her is legal, it is only logical to make her a resident of her new home planet."

A female on the far side of the room piped up. "As she is your niece, she may reside with you freely, without protest from our people. This is knowledge you do possess, Sarek. For what purpose should she seek citizenship?"

Without any hesitation, he announced, "So that she may be enrolled in the academies of Vulcan II."

At this proclamation, the ministers exchanged blank glances, the only indication of some form of displeasure. Apparently, this had not been an expected answer.

"You wish to enroll a human into our academic systems." It was a statement, not a question. "This is a request never made of the Council until today."

"A request I respectfully ask to have fulfilled. I do not want to see her future ebb away from improper nurturing."

A few brief whispers arose amongst the ministers, hardly audible to those below. Words were passed around amongst the other members of the Council, until the quiet was again broken. "Our academies," said the male beside T'Pau, "have only admitted Vulcan students into their halls since their establishments."

"You will remember," Sarek pressed, "my son is half-human, and yet his enrollment was accepted when he was a child."

"A half-Vulcan still has Vulcan blood," his voice seemed sterner, if that was possible. "The one you speak of, Spock, was raised knowing what to expect in our education systems; this child was not. You have dressed her in Vulcan fashions, educated her in the ways of Vulcan customs, all in hopes of gaining her status amongst our race. However, the truth remains: she is human. She is not of Vulcan blood, and is not aware of the depths of what we practice. It is unlikely that one such as her could retain the amount of information required by our Vulcan youths."

"You imply she is not as intelligent as any Vulcan in the universe?" He challenged evenly.

"I state her intelligence has been measured differently on Earth than it would be here. Would it be fair to disappoint her faith in her own abilities?" He was looking at Lauren as she said it. The girl could still only return the gaze, unsure of whether to speak or remain silent. She chose the latter of the two.

Sarek took a step forward. "She must have the opportunity to continue her education, which she can no longer do on Earth. She deserves the chance to learn. Every individual is entitled to this, and I seek the best instruction for her. This will only be accomplished in our academic system, and so this is where I desire to enroll her. I have spoken with Lauren at length about this, and she is in agreement with my views." He inclined his head, allowing Lauren to catch a glimpse of his eye. "I will cite the fact that my wife was once an educator on the former Vulcan: a human educating Vulcans on the behaviors of her race." He took a step forward. "How can you choose to contradict actions you took to accept Amanda Grayson into our world, but not my Lauren?"

"Again, you offer an example that was deemed extenuating at the time of its execution. In addition, the situation occurred well before Vulcan had been destroyed. This is not the same situation as it was with your spouse. What you seek is not logical."

He was not fazed. "Ministers, it is logical to me as Ambassador to Earth. While I was married to Amanda Grayson, I was granted the opportunity to further study human behavior, allowing me to strengthen my understandings of the residents of Earth. I was grateful for that additional chance, and cannot think of a better way to comprehend the beings of our planetary ally. The same can occur now that Lauren has come to reside with me, which will ultimately benefit our world. You know this, know my reasoning is sound, though you wish to deny its validity." He took a moment to meet the eyes of every Council member. "My niece's future will be altered greatly—positively or negatively—by your decision. I ask you to allow her the citizenship she deserves."

Quietly, T'Pau clasped hands in front of her. "Ambassador Sarek," all attention turned to her. With a few mere words, she commanded the room. "Your concern for your niece's education is respected and understood by all who are present. Unfortunately, listening to the arguments of those present, your request is not deemed practical by the High Council."

He said nothing. Even as he felt a swell of burning disappointment growing in his stomach, he waited. Courteously. T'Pau was warranted this deference.

"In the wake of Vulcan's destruction, our numbers were greatly diminished, which has threatened the continued existence of our race. The past few years, those of us who remain have put all effort into re-populating our new colony, and preserving the essence of our culture. So few young ones remain, and there has never been a more important time to guide them in our traditions. In terms of what is crucial for our people, these are the key factors. There must be nothing to tamper with this path. I must make clear the importance of maintaining our ways for our people. Your niece is wholly human, Sarek, and as such, she garners emotions without sturdy boundaries. This is cause for unrest in our minds. To grant this human child access to our academies could potentially deter us from our current course."

"With all due respect," he interjected, causing slightly widened eyes from all other Vulcans, "one human child would hardly cause the collapse of an entire civilization. There is so much about it she already respects and reveres. Also, be mindful that the admittance of a human into the Vulcan education system could further relations between humans and Vulcans. This could lead to the strengthening of our alliance with Earth, and is therefore a logical option. Surely, you are aware of this in you infinite wisdom. Would any of you not do the same if you were in my position?"

None of the over Vulcan ministers answered this, but he hoped they contemplated his point. T'Pau's chin tilted upwards, ever so slightly, almost defiantly. She was silently challenging her fellow minister, and Sarek waited. Waited for what she had to say to him.

"Lauren Grayson-Reed," Lauren blinked in surprise when she was directly addressed, "our people may abide by the rules of logic, but we know that nothing is more sacred than family. This is a principal Vulcans have honored for countless years. I grieve with you for the loss of your parents, as I am sure you have done a myriad of times; I am certain it is something you still do."

Her throat felt dry, but she managed to breathe out a quiet, "Thank you."

All the ministers' eyes went to Lauren at that tiny, unexpected response. But T'Pau went on, unaffected. "Perhaps you are a young human of superior quality, as your uncle has argued in your defense. However, you must understand our stance, and respect what we decide. There are numerous differences between Vulcans and humans, regardless of us being of humanoid species. Your kind wears many emotions on your sleeves, as the saying goes on your planet. We, of course, are a more disciplined society. You must also understand the level of distrust we harbor. The recent past has been a time of great uncertainty for Vulcans, and we are not rapid in our ability to accept foreign persons into our world. To admit you to the academies would threaten what we have worked diligently to restore." Then she focused again on Sarek, whose eyebrows rose, a sign of hidden displeasure. "We cannot pollute our culture with the influence of a human, even one as young as her."

Lauren visibly winced. Sarek noticed.

For a second time, a series of whispers were passed between the ministers, coming to T'Pau last. After listening to their mutterings, she straightened again and proclaimed, "The Council unanimously denies the request of citizenship for Lauren Grayson-Reed on Vulcan II."

Sarek looked over at Lauren, whose head drooped at the barest angle. No one else might have detected this, but he had. It was a sign of humiliation. He knew she had been emotionally wounded. He was as displeased as she probably was. Pollute their culture? He thought. Pollute their culture. Who…what did they think she was? He stared at the ministers, eyes icy and piercing, controlling the emotion he did feel. My niece pollute our culture? Insulting. Anger…He would not deny it; there was too much anger and disgust present to deny it. So this is what Spock must have felt when he was told having a human mother was a "disadvantage." No wonder he felt the desire to rebel to their faces.

As Amanda would have said about emotions, Don't try to fight it…Words he had once reiterated for Spock. Now was the time to heed his wife's wisdom.

Slowly, he made a gesture. At this, T'Nuur placed hands on the girl's shoulders, encouraging her to take a few steps back. He wanted his space; now was the time to defend Lauren with his verbal assertions.

When Sarek had gathered his thoughts, he spoke. "Ministers, to say there is displeasure with your decision is a vast understatement." For the remainder of the session, he slipped into his native tongue, knowing Lauren could not interpret every word. This he was glad for. He would not subject her to further verbal abuse from the High Council members. "The intent behind my request was to give her adolescent intellect the chance to grow. Unfortunately, this shall now be limited by your fears and prejudices. This is quite uncharacteristic of the tolerance we claim to possess as a people. I grieve with Lauren over her family, but I also grieve the evidently narrow minds of those present."

This earned intense eyes from the Vulcans high above, but he did not regard them.

"But your decision is what it is, and therefore, I must concede to it. I can speak for my niece when I say she also accepts these terms, and respects your points-of-view. Keep in mind, though, that my focus is on Lauren." He began a measured pace in front of the Council members. "Since your decision greatly affects her situation, I will make a decision of my own: I shall assume the responsibility of tutoring the girl myself, using the methods and disciplines applied in our academies."

"For what purpose?" T'Pau interrupted, also speaking in Vulcan. Her voice had sharpened several degrees. "She cannot relate these skills while living on Vulcan, as she will not be enrolled into our education system."

Sarek almost smiled. "So you have already made clear. This will not deter me, nor her, from persevering, though." It was as if something was blossoming within his chest, the pride her felt for Lauren opening like a great flower beneath his frame, the desire to make her part of a family again. She would always be family, but making it official would be such a symbolic gesture for them. He could not…would not give up. "I appreciate you reminding me of my status as ambassador, T'Pau. While under my tutelage, she will also accompany me on ambassadorial visits. This will guarantee excellence in her studies, and journeys abroad will expand her learning experiences."

This went on for several minutes, each minister contributing their views on the subject, and Sarek answering with steadfast countenance. Every so often, Lauren would catch a word or two, but could not piece together a fluid conversation. By the subtle tones of their voices, though, she could tell the mood was anything but serene. Was she shattering the long-standing relationship between her uncle and his colleagues? The idea sent a sickening sensation straight to the pit of her stomach.

Another minister spoke out. "Ambassador, please. This will interfere with the quality of your duties. What will representatives think when Lauren Grayson-Reed arrives with you during missions?"

He turned to the one who had inquired. "You underestimate my niece. You underestimate her profound influence on those around her, not just family. Unwise, ministers. Unwise." He took one strong step backwards. "As I have Lauren to think about, I am calling an end to this session. I must see that she gets home and receives the proper respite from today's meeting. I thank you for the time you have given us today, ministers." Raising his hand in salute, he announced, "Live long and prosper."

Never in all of his life had it felt so satisfying to say the words with such boldness. This must have been how Spock felt when he declined his acceptance into the Vulcan Science Academy. He would not tell anyone, but he took acute pleasure in it.

Turning to his companions, he said, "Come, Lauren," and lightly placed a hand on her back, guiding them toward the exit. "It is time to depart."

The faint contact was incredibly reassuring, and she willed him to maintain it. She did not look up to see his face. Not yet. Sarek understood this, and did not raise issue with it. She had been through quite enough. None of them looked back to see if the ministers of the High Council were watching; they knew they were.

The others did not rise for them as they departed. Only T'Pau remained standing, keeping her steady gaze on the young girl as they went.

Not a word passed Lauren's lips as they boarded Sarek's shuttle. Silence lingered even as he activated the controls and set a domestic course for home. He faced forward, hands gripping the navigation controls, watching as they flew past the immense Ministry building, and the desert scenery of their world.

Lauren was in the seat beside him, knees drawn up to her chest, arms wrapped herself. She gazed out her window, seeing the sights that were gradually becoming familiar to her brain. Home, she thought. Unofficially, but it's still home. It was heartening, and yet saddening at the same time. The Vulcans would not accept her here, save for Uncle Sarek and Spock. This was a possibility she had been aware of, so she had to accept it. Still, it would have elated her heart to be welcomed as a citizen in this world. On the other hand, her family would stop at nothing to keep her with them. It was a mildly reassuring thought. Taking a deep breath, she sighed.

It was not until they were halfway home when Lauren finally fractured the quiet. "Uncle Sarek?"

It was an attempt to test the air, to gauge how severe his mood was. The simple word cut through like a cool rush of water. Following the unsatisfactory session, to hear her voice was a calming distraction. Feeling himself relax, he replied. "Speak your mind, Lauren."

A pause. "Not sure where to start."

"What do you feel?"

Twisting her fingers together, she admitted, "Sad."

He was not contented with succinct answers. "Go on, child."

"I'm upset because it didn't go the way I thought it would."

"Few events in life ever do." Perhaps she did not want to hear this, but it was truth, nonetheless. "Does this discourage you?"

She thought a while, then lowered her legs to the floor. "At first, yes. It felt like someone had punched me in the gut. They don't like me, do they?"

"It is not a matter such as that, Lauren. They are rejecting what is unfamiliar, especially in the aftermath of Vulcan's destruction. You being who you are—"

"What I am," she muttered.

"—who you are," he stressed, "is not the issue. It will take time to convince them their impressions of you are erroneous, and that your goals are related to educational advances and respecting Vulcan culture. They will eventually understand how advantageous it will be to have a human accepted into one of our academies."

She contemplated something. "This is probably what Spock felt when he was young."

His grip tightened again on the controls. "In what regards?"

"He warned me about this: he was afraid I was going to experience the same problems he did." Rubbing at her chin, she went on. "This might be similar, but it doesn't mean it's going to be this way all the time. Like you said, maybe it's just going to take a while before things begin to change. I told Spock this, too. I knew it wasn't going to be an easy task." Then she looked at him. "But like you, I'm not giving up."

His shoulders straightened at her conviction. "I am pleased to hear it. The events of today are a minor setback, but this shall not be the conclusion, young one. In the meantime, I will privately tutor you."

Her eyes softened, relieved. "Really?"

"Truly. You will learn as Vulcan children do in the academies, and so you will have to put forth to effort in order to succeed."

"I will," she said sincerely.

A faint smile found his lips. "I am certain you will. And, to assure consistency in your education, you shall also accompany me on ambassadorial ventures."

Her eyes instantly went wide, and she nearly fell out of her seat. "Wha…?" She had not expected this, to be told she would be his companion on visits to…other distant worlds. "Are you serious?"

"When am I not?" She realized he made a good point, and released a small laugh. It warmed his heart. "This way, I may still instruct you, at least until you are familiarized with our educational expectations. My goal is for you to become dependent in your studies."

She was staring at him incredulously. "You'd be okay with that?"

He looked at her evenly, almost adoringly. "My niece, it is the logical option."

She smiled, and he was pleased. Looking out her window again, she asked, "You're going to let me tell Spock about this, right?"

"It would probably be best if he heard it from you."

"I think so, too."

"I do ask," he continued, "that you meditate at some point in the day. As lifting as it is to see you smile, I advise the importance of reflecting on all of the day's occurrences. It is always important to remember, child."

She nodded. "Okay." In fact, she decided now would be a good time to start. While talking with her uncle gave her confidence, it did not change what had taken place. It would sadden her for days to come whenever she pondered on it. Leaning forward in her seat, she joined her fingertips in front of her face, and closed her eyes with a sigh. Sarek glanced at her, secretly appreciating her actions.

In Lauren's mind, she saw the eyes on the ministers bearing down on her, making her heart feel heavy inside her chest. T'Pau, still standing tall and powerful, had the fiercest eyes of all. As the image lingered, her breathing became heavy as she felt her chest acutely tighten. After a while, she managed to will the sensation away.

In another section of her mind, she mentally drafted what she would be saying to Spock.