AN: Happy Early Star Wars Day! Thought I'd post something a bit different this time. May the 4th be with you.
Content Warning!
This is a Star Trek Mirror Universe fic. The Terran Empire is brutal and engages in slavery and copious acts of brutality. Forced labor, human trafficking, racism (speciesism), rape, etc are terrible realities we face in the real world. If you are sensitive to any of those and do not wish to read a story that includes those subjects. I implore you, DO NOT continue reading.
You have been warned.
Star Trek: The Mirror Gamer
Episode 1: Broken Mirror
Stardate: 41153. 6
Earth Standard Date: February 26, 2364.
The aged, dilapidated Constellation-class ship creaked and groaned under the strain of its own existence. The emptiness of the cargo bay created an eerie silence that hung in the stale air. In the midst of this lonely tranquility, Tyson found himself suddenly standing, disoriented and shaken. He had been torn from his mundane reality, his life of endless gaming and self-inflicted isolation. And standing before him, wearing a devilish grin, was the very being responsible for his predicament. A being that doesn't… shouldn't… couldn't exist.
Q, the omnipotent trickster, gazed at Tyson with a mocking expression, his eyes gleaming with mischief. "Ah, Tyson, my dear fellow," he drawled, his voice dripping with condescension. "You've spent your pitiful existence buried in your precious games, haven't you? Lost in fantasy, while the real world passed you by. But you see, I've decided to give you a gift."
Tyson's eyes widened, his heart racing, as he struggled to comprehend the surreal situation. "What do you mean?" he stammered. Confusion evident in his tone.
Q chuckled, a sinister sound that echoed through the desolate cargo bay. "I've brought you here, to a world that perfectly suits your...preferences. A fantasy world, if you will, where your life will no longer be squandered on meaningless distractions." He paused, a wicked smile spreading across his face. "You're welcome."
With a sudden flash, Q vanished, leaving Tyson alone in the cold emptiness of the cargo bay. The silence pressed down on him like a crushing weight. He was abandoned in an unfamiliar world. But that wasn't true, was it? Tyson knew Q, the god-like being from Star Trek. The room he found himself in was similar to his memories of the television show.
"Have fun, Gamer," Q's taunting voice echoed in his mind, a cruel reminder of the twisted fate that had befallen him.
The oppressive silence of the cargo bay weighed heavy on Tyson as Q disappeared in a flash of light, off to do whatever it was Q did. The flickering overhead lights illuminated scattered debris and abandoned crates. With a growing sense of unease, Tyson stumbled upon a crate filled with spare uniforms. He rifled through the pile, a glimmer of hope igniting within him as he found a jumpsuit that appeared to be his size. A single pip was affixed to the uniform, marking himself as an Ensign, the lowest rank within the ship's hierarchy. It was a small detail, but hopefully, one that would grant him a semblance of belonging in this reality.
As Tyson approached the door to leave the cargo bay, he caught sight of the scuffed com-panel beside it. His heart skipped a beat as he noticed the ship's designation: ISS Stargazer. He knew the name well; it was the ship under Captain Picard's first command. But the "ISS" prefix puzzled him. Almost all Federation ships had the USS designation. Was this a Klingon ship? No, the walls and paneling all looked Federation in origin. Besides, the Klingon designation was IKS. Imperial Klingon Ship.
The realization struck him like a lightning bolt, chilling him to the bone. ISS stood for Imperial Star Ship. He was in the Star Trek Universe, but not the one he knew and loved. This was the mirror universe, a realm where the benevolent Federation had been replaced by the ruthless Terran Empire, where the driving force was the pursuit of power and profit.
As the gravity of his situation sank in, Tyson felt a shiver of fear run down his spine. He was a stranger in a world where trust was scarce and survival was far from guaranteed. He would need all his wits and cunning to navigate the murky waters of the Terran Empire and to find his place within this grim reflection of the universe he had once admired.
Tyson hesitated at the threshold of the cargo bay, a sudden memory of Q's parting words echoing in his mind. "Have fun, Gamer," the omnipotent being had said, the word "Gamer" spoken like a title, an appellation that defined him. Tyson's heart raced as a wild notion took hold of him. Could it be that he had been granted the powers of 'The Gamer' in this dark and treacherous world? With a mixture of hope and trepidation, Tyson spoke the words, "Character Sheet," and to his astonishment, a translucent blue interface box materialized before his eyes. It displayed an array of statistics and attributes that defined him, his abilities quantified and categorized as though he were a character in one of his beloved role-playing games. The revelation was staggering, yet it also filled Tyson with newfound confidence. He was familiar with the concept of 'The Gamer,' individuals who possessed powers and abilities reminiscent of those found in RPGs.
Tyson mentally adopted the mantle of The Gamer and looked through the character sheet, it was all seemingly pretty standard for an RPG until he reached the Drawbacks and Perks section.
Drawbacks:
'Q and U'
You've gained the attention of the omnipotent being, Q. Q's reputation as a trickster is well-earned. He may show up and grant a small boon, he may test you, or he may ruin your carefully constructed plans.
'Dark Mirror'
Instead of the canon timeline, you find yourself in a dark reflection of the universe you know. Be aware that characters and events are likely different from the canon you remember. Note: In any universe you visit, characters may be replaced by alternate-universe versions of themselves.
Perks:
'Out Of Nowhere'
People are far more accepting of what you claim to be. An inter-dimensional traveler that arrived here and wants to integrate into our reality? Eh, we got five of those last week. Last member of a dying race? We have a protocol for that. This is your springboard into getting onto a ship. What comes next depends on you.
'Corruption'
The Mirror Universe corrupts all Terrans to some extent. Being a Gamer doesn't exempt you from the corruption, but turns it into a boon. You gain access to a Corruption Pool (CP) a large regenerating pool of corruptive energy that grows in capacity with your attributes and can be used to corrupt people. This corruption process can be directly done via physical contact. You're also capable of channeling it through either powers you have, or any weapon you're currently using; such as tainting your healing magic to corrupt those you heal or channeling the energy into your mace to corrupt someone as you beat them. Your corruption can cause a blanket cosmetic change in creatures you corrupt, such as making skin pale, eyes a certain color, or making a distinctive mark, at no cost. You gain a +10 bonus to all checks against targets you've fully Corrupted.
Absorb Corruption: After corrupting someone fully, whether they be a combatant or not, you can reabsorb your Corruption to gain one of their skills, attributes, traits, power, etc with them also losing that same amount. When you Absorb Corruption, you may choose to kill your target.
Corruption Pool = 52/52 (Cumulative Attribute Score)
Emboldened by his newfound abilities, Tyson stepped into the dimly lit corridor, leaving the cargo bay behind. He knew that the path before him was fraught with danger, but he also understood that he was no longer an ordinary man, but a Gamer, armed with powers that could tip the scales in his favor. He would not cower before the chaos and despair that Q had unleashed upon him. He would face this grim, dark universe head-on, armed with the very skills that had once been his escape from reality. Tyson would not be defeated. He would rise to the challenge, conquer the darkness, and prove to Q that he was no mere plaything. As Tyson ventured deeper into the heart of the ISS Stargazer, he steeled himself for the trials that awaited him. He would need to master his powers and learn the ways of this world. But with the power of 'The Gamer' at his command, he had a fighting chance at survival and, perhaps, even success… But first, he needed to figure out how to navigate the ship.
Tyson wandered the dim halls of the ISS Stargazer, doing his best to avoid the scrutiny of the crew members he encountered. Their hardened expressions and cold stares were a far cry from the camaraderie and cooperation he had come to associate with the Federation of the Star Trek universe. In this twisted reflection, trust was a rare commodity, and he knew that revealing his true nature would put him in grave danger. As he traversed the ship's labyrinthine corridors, Tyson stumbled across the entrance to main engineering. He hesitated for a moment before cautiously stepping inside. The sight that greeted him was a stark contrast to the sleek, orderly engineering sections he had seen on the television show. Here, exposed conduits and tangled wires snaked through the room like metallic veins. It was in this chaotic environment that Tyson spotted a familiar face: Barclay, an odd character from the Star Trek series. Despite the man's awkward demeanor and uncertain gaze, Tyson felt a glimmer of hope that he might find a way to integrate himself into the crew. Approaching Barclay cautiously, Tyson inquired if there were any simple tasks he could assist with, hoping to prove his worth and gain the man's trust. Barclay hesitated for a moment before instructing Tyson to inspect isolinear chips for defects, a seemingly menial task that nonetheless held great importance for the ship's operation.
Tyson set about his assigned task, carefully examining each chip for even the slightest imperfection. As he worked, he felt a subtle shift in his Gamer abilities, as though the act of immersing himself in his assigned task was unlocking new skills and powers within him.
Skill Unlocked!
Engineering (level 1) - A skill to identify, build, repair, or disable technological devices. You can also assess the stability of structures and machinery, and arm and disarm explosives. Skill level cannot exceed the governing attribute, Intelligence.
Tyson's focus on his task was suddenly broken as the door to main engineering hissed open, and a beautiful woman entered the room. Her long, dark hair cascaded over her shoulders, and her eyes sparkled with an intelligence that was both alluring and dangerous. She wore a figure-hugging dress that left one shoulder exposed, adding an air of sensuality to her appearance. Tyson's breath caught in his throat as he realized that this was none other than Deanna Troi, the empathic counselor. But, this was her mirror universe counterpart, and her sultry demeanor and authoritative presence hinted at a darker, more ruthless nature.
She approached Barclay and Tyson couldn't help but overhear their conversation. Barclay addressed her with a mixture of respect and trepidation, using the title "Inquisitor." She informed Barclay that the captain had requested a meeting and that his presence was required. But before she turned to leave, her piercing gaze fell upon Tyson, and a predatory smile spread across her face. "You," she said, her voice silky and commanding. "Come with me. The captain will be most interested in meeting you."
Tyson hesitated for a moment, his heart pounding in his chest. He knew that meeting the captain could be a double-edged sword, offering him the opportunity to integrate himself into the crew at the risk of exposing his true nature. But as he looked into the eyes of the mirror Deanna Troi, he felt a magnetic pull that he could not resist. With a nod, Tyson followed Inquisitor Troi out of main engineering, leaving the chaos of exposed conduits and tangled wires behind. As they walked through the dimly lit corridors of the ISS Stargazer, Tyson couldn't help but steal glances at the enigmatic woman beside him, her beauty and power both captivating and intimidating.
As Tyson, Barclay, and Inquisitor Troi made their way to the turbolift, Barclay's voice grew increasingly agitated. The words poured forth from his mouth in a torrent, as though he were unburdening himself of a great weight. To Tyson, it seemed as if the man was talking to himself as much as to the others, his voice tinged with a mixture of frustration and despair. "The Empire is in bad shape," Barclay muttered, his eyes darting from side to side as though he feared enemies lurking all around. "The Klingon-Cardassian alliance has pushed us back to the Sol System. What's left of the Empire is bottled up here, trapped like rats in a cage. We still have the strength to hold our home system, but they'd rather let us starve than assault the homeworld." He paused for a moment, his voice dropping to a whisper as he continued, "The rest of the Quadrant scarcely even knows that we're around. And the Cardassians and Klingons like it that way. They want to keep us weak, to ensure that we pose no threat to their power."
As Barclay's words echoed through the confined lift, Tyson felt a shiver of unease run down his spine. The situation was even far more dire than he had realized, with the Terran Empire being a mere shadow of what the Federation became, teetering on the brink of collapse.
As they stepped off the turbolift and onto the bridge, Tyson couldn't help but feel a pang of disappointment. The command center of the ISS Stargazer was a far cry from the gleaming Enterprise of the prime universe he'd seen on television. It was a mosaic of scuffed panels and flickering displays, all suffused with an air of general disrepair.
They were quickly ushered into the captain's ready room, where a stern and imposing figure awaited them. This was Captain Jean-Luc Picard of the mirror universe, his bald head instantly recognizable despite the added goatee, sleeveless uniform complete with toned, muscular arms, and the cold, calculating demeanor that marked him as a man to be feared and respected. Picard wasted no time, addressing Barclay with a mixture of impatience and authority. "Barclay, how are things in engineering?"
"Good," Barclay replied hesitantly, "but there are the plasma leaks and..."
"Yes, yes," Picard interrupted, waving a dismissive hand. "I'm sure you can get them sorted out. But I have another assignment for you, assuming you can step outside of engineering for a moment."
"Assignment, sir?" Barclay asked, clearly taken aback.
Picard's gaze hardened as he gave his orders. "Assist Lieutenant Yar in overseeing the escort of the Vulcan slave ships. With our first officer still unaccounted for, she may require an extra hand."
"Uhm, yes, sir," Barclay stammered, his face a mixture of apprehension and determination.
Picard then turned his attention to Inquisitor Troi, his voice laced with curiosity. "Inquisitor, who is this? I only asked for Barclay."
Troi regarded Tyson thoughtfully, her eyes betraying a hint of intrigue. "I'm not sure, Captain. But I know you like to personally meet crew members with unique potential, and I sense something within him. I'm not sure what it is, but it's unlike anything I've ever felt before."
Seizing the opportunity, Tyson stepped forward and introduced himself, stating his desire to serve the Terran Empire under Picard's command. He knew that this was his chance to prove himself and ingratiate himself with the Captain. Picard regarded Tyson thoughtfully, a hint of intrigue flickering in his eyes. After a moment's consideration, he gave a curt nod. "Very well. Ensign Tyson, you will join Barclay in assisting Lieutenant Yar. Dismissed."
As they turned to leave, Tyson couldn't help but cast a longing glance at Inquisitor Troi, her commanding beauty stirring a strange mix of desire and trepidation within him. With a final nod, he followed Barclay to the tactical area. The area at the rear of the bridge had officers manning various tactical and security stations. Tyson's gaze was immediately drawn to a striking figure standing at the section: Lieutenant Tasha Yar. Her blonde hair was cropped short, framing a face that was as beautiful as it was fierce. Her sleeveless uniform revealed well-toned arms, hinting at the strength and danger she posed.
As they approached, Barclay addressed Yar, his voice tinged with a hint of nervousness. "Lieutenant, we're here to assist you in monitoring the Vulcans' transfer."
Yar's eyes narrowed as she sized up the two newcomers, her expression unreadable. Before Barclay could react, she suddenly lunged forward and delivered a brutal punch to his stomach, causing him to double over in pain. A bald security officer standing nearby laughed, his eyes filled with cruel amusement as he watched Barclay struggle to catch his breath. Tyson realized at that moment that violence and intimidation were as much a part of daily life here as duty and loyalty. He knew that if he were to survive and thrive in this world, he would need to be prepared for anything – and be willing to use every tool at his disposal to secure his place among the crew.
Barclay was on the ground, coughing, trying to recover from Yar's punch, when the bald security grunt turned his attention to Tyson. Eyes narrowed and a cruel grin on his face, the man launched a punch at Tyson.
However, The Gamer was prepared. He raised his hands in a defensive position and took the punch with minimal damage, then retaliated with a blow of his own. His fist connected with the security guard's face, the force of the impact staggering the man and sending him crashing to the ground, stunned.
Security Grunt (Lvl 0)
{Corruption - 0/6}
Defense: Reflex: 10, Fortitude: 10, Will: 11.
Hit Points: 5/5
Melee: Punch +0 (1d4-1)
Grunt v. Tyson: Punch = Success. 2 Damage (78/80)
Tyson v. Grunt: Punch = Major Success! 3 Damage (2/5)
Skill Unlocked!
Martial Arts (level 2) - This skill governs your ability and proficiency in unarmed combat. Skill level cannot exceed the governing attribute, Dexterity.
Security Grunt Defeated!
10 Experience Gained! (10/1000)
Yar observed the exchange, a glimmer of approval flashing in her eyes as she took in Tyson's unexpected display of strength. She stepped forward, a smirk playing on her lips as she addressed him. "Not bad, Ensign. I didn't expect you to be able to handle yourself like that. Come to my quarters later, and we'll see what else you're capable of."
She then turned her attention to Barclay, who was still recovering from her earlier assault. "I have no idea what good you're going to do here, but listen up." Her voice was cold and authoritative as she continued, "The slave ship convoy we're escorting is full of Vulcans. They've been working the polar gas mines on Venus, but they're being diverted to Titan for ice mining."
As Tyson and Barclay absorbed this, Suddenly, a communication blared across the screen, urgent and frantic. "Stargazer, Stargazer, the Vulcans are rising up in convoy ships 5 and 6. They're trying to take control!"
Tasha's eyes narrowed, her expression hardening as she processed the information. "Barclay, can you help me get a tactical scan of those convoy ships?"
"Yes, hold on," he replied, scrambling to comply.
"Maybe you're good for something after all," Yar said degradingly, a sneer in her voice as she watched Barclay work.
As the scan came through, Yar's face darkened. "Firing photon torpedoes," she announced, her hand hovering over the controls.
"Wait!" shouted Tyson, interrupting her. His voice was firm, a hint of desperation in his tone.
Yar's gaze snapped to Tyson, her eyes flashing dangerously. "Are you challenging my authority, Ensign?" she demanded, her voice icy.
Tyson didn't back down, meeting her gaze head-on. The stare down gave him a moment to come up with a good enough reason for her to not attack. "Those ships have minimal defenses. Firing photon torpedoes would annihilate them. Why would you destroy those ships, killing thousands of slaves?" he argued. "They're valuable. There's no reason to waste resources like that."
Yar's eyes narrowed even further, and she swiftly pulled a knife from her belt. Tyson warily looked at Yar, but his attention was suddenly drawn to the security guard, still down from Tyson's earlier punch. The man's pained groaning caught Tyson's attention, and his eyes quickly locked onto the phaser holstered on the guard's belt.
Seeing an opportunity, Tyson lunged for the man, grabbing the weapon without resistance, and turning it on Yar. She had moved when Tyson lunged, aiming to stab him, but she stopped abruptly when he aimed the phaser at her. The tension on the bridge was palpable as they found themselves at a stalemate. For a moment, the air was thick with anticipation, each of them waiting for the other to make a move. The expression on Yar's face was a mixture of surprise and anger, her eyes never leaving the phaser aimed at her. Tyson held the weapon steady, knowing that he had to act quickly if he wanted to prevent Yar from destroying the Vulcan ships and the thousands of lives aboard them. He also knew that he was treading on dangerous ground – challenging Yar's authority could have severe consequences, but he couldn't stand idly by as innocent lives were extinguished.
Tyson took a deep breath and addressed Lieutenant Barclay in a calm but assertive tone. "Please inform the Captain that there's a situation here that needs his attention," he requested. His eyes and his phaser never left Yar. "Target the shields and engines of convoy ships 5 and 6, the ones with the ongoing mutiny. Use phasers only, precision shots. If you can't accurately target those subsystems, don't fire."
Barclay hesitated for a moment, glancing between Tyson and Yar, but ultimately decided to follow Tyson's orders. He fired the phasers at the convoy ships, successfully disabling the vessels.
"Good work," Tyson said, still keeping his phaser trained on Yar. "Now, open communications with the convoy. Ship wide broadcast."
Once Barclay reported that the communication channel was open, Tyson spoke firmly. "Vulcan insurrectionists, this is the ISS Stargazer. Cease your hostilities or we will randomly execute Vulcans at a rate of two per minute. You have five minutes to comply. End transmission."
The room was silent for a moment, tense with anticipation as they awaited a response. Just then, Captain Picard stormed onto the bridge, his face a mix of anger and confusion. "What the hell is going on?" he demanded, his eyes immediately locking onto Tyson and the phaser still pointed at Yar.
Tyson knew he had to tread carefully in this situation, but he also knew he couldn't allow the destruction of the Vulcan ships. As Picard stared him down, Tyson quickly explained the situation to him. "Sir, the slaves on two of the convoy vessels were staging an uprising. Lieutenant Yar was going to fire torpedoes, destroying the vessels and killing all the slaves. It would've been a waste of lives and resources. When I questioned her, she drew a knife, so I drew a phaser. I had Lieutenant Barclay use the Stargazer's phasers to disable the convoy ships then broadcast a broad message to the vessels ordering them to stand down or we'd I'd start killing Vulcans randomly every two minutes until they submit."
Picard considered Tyson's statement, his face unreadable. He turned to Barclay and asked him to confirm the truth of Tyson's words. When Barclay did, Picard's expression hardened as he addressed Yar. "Are you trying to have me investigated by the Department of Slavery? Why is it that a new Ensign makes better decisions than my third officer? Return to your station and sheathe that knife unless you intend to use it."
He then turned his attention to Tyson. "Ensign, I commend your decision. Know that you will be punished for disobeying a direct order and assaulting a superior. But for now, tell me your plan."
Tyson responded. "I warned the Vulcans that every minute we'd randomly kill two of them. We can transport two from the ships to here, and stun them. Killing slaves is a waste. The convoy ship's sensors don't have the resolution to see through the ruse. We can continue abducting them until they give up, or buy time until an alternate method of suppressing them arises."
Picard weighed the plan carefully before approving it. "Very well, proceed. Since it was your idea, you can be the one to subdue the Vulcans." Waving off Tyson. "Report to transporter room 2."
Tyson nodded, understanding that if he failed to quell the Vulcan uprising, the onus would be on him. As he left the bridge, he knew that he'd have to walk a fine line between following orders and preserving his sense of morality. Tyson grabbed one of the security crew members to accompany him to the transporter room, primarily to act as a guide. When they arrived, Tyson issued a quick order to the transporter chief. "Target one Vulcan life sign from each convoy ship five and six and engage transport here immediately."
The transporter chief acknowledged Tyson's command and swiftly carried it out. Moments later, two Vulcans materialized on the transporter pad: one male, the other female. Both were disoriented and confused, but Tyson wasted no time in setting his phaser to stun and firing at the pair as they fully materialized.
Vulcan Slave (Lvl 1)
{Corruption - 0/11}
Defense: Reflex: 10, Fortitude: 11, Will: 11
Hit Points: 10/10
Melee: Punch +2 (3d4)
Attributes: Strength 11, Dexterity 10, Constitution 12, Intelligence 9, Wisdom 10, Charisma 9
Vulcan Strength: Vulcans are triple the Strength of Humans, doing 3x of the normal damage dice worth of damage with unarmed attacks.
Tyson v. Vulcan 1: Phaser = Major Success! 15 Stun Damage (0/10)
Tyson v. Vulcan 2: Phaser = Failure Tyson v. Vulcan 2: Phaser = Major Success! 15 Stun Damage (0/10)
Skill Unlocked!
Energy Weapons (level 3) - This skill determines a player's combat effectiveness with energy weapons. Skill level cannot exceed the governing attribute, Dexterity.
Tyson struck the first Vulcan he targeted, the male. His shot missed the second. She focused on him and charged, she was tall, fair-skinned with a traditional Vulcan bob hairstyle. Before she reached him, Tyson fired again, hitting her this time. The stunned Vulcans crumpled to the floor, unconscious. Tyson turned to the security crew member who had accompanied him. "Help me move them out of the way. We'll keep this up until their comrades on the convoy ships stand down."
With a nod, the security officer assisted Tyson in moving the unconscious Vulcan off the transporter pad.
Tyson v. Vulcan 3: Phaser = Major Success! 15 Stun Damage (0/10)
Tyson v. Vulcan 4: Phaser = Major Success! 15 Stun Damage (0/10)
Energy Weapons Skill Increased! (5)
Exactly one minute after the initial transport, Tyson instructed the transporter chief to bring over two more Vulcans. As before, Tyson quickly stunned both of them as they materialized on the transporter pad. He then turned to the security crewman who had accompanied him and issued a new order.
"Get a security detail to start moving these unconscious Vulcans to the brig. If they take time to break, we're going to have more bodies here than we can manage."
The security officer nodded and hurried away to gather a team. While they moved the stunned Vulcans to the brig, Tyson continued to oversee the transporter room operations. He hoped that his plan would work and that the Vulcan insurrectionists would soon see the futility of their uprising. As Tyson waited for the next minute to pass, he considered his character sheet. His studying revealed he'd forgotten about Corruption. The Gamer needed to test his ability and decided to try channeling his Corruption into the phaser.
Federation Phaser (Common)
{Corruption 15/15}
15 Energy Damage
Corruption Pool (37/52)
With every passing minute, Tyson repeated the process of stunning more transported Vulcan rebels. He idly noted the color of the phaser's beam turned to purple while he channeled Corruption through it. But the novelty was overwhelmed by how heavy the situation weighed on him. Regardless, he was determined to see his plan through. He hoped that the show of force would be enough to end the uprising, but only time would tell if his gamble would pay off.
Energy Weapons Skill Increased! (8)
Energy Weapons Skill Maxed! Increase Dexterity to continue increasing Energy Weapons Skill level.
Imbuing Corruption into his weapon took but a thought. However, it wasn't a permanent effect. The damage done by his weapon reduced the Corruption it held, as it was passed into his target. Tyson stripped the Vulcan Strength trait from the first target he fully Corrupted. He stripped the Constitution from the second Vulcan. Strength and Dexterity came next leaving Tyson's Corruption Pool too low to continue absorbing. The Vulcans he absorbed traits from looked visibly weakened and frail afterward.
Power Activated: Absorb Corruption.
Trait Added: Vulcan Strength - Vulcans are Triple the Strength of Humans and do 3x the normal damage dice worth of damage with unarmed attacks.
Attribute Increased: Constitution (12)
Attribute Increased: Strength (11)
Attribute Increased: Dexterity (10)
Corruption Pool (4/61)
Energy Weapons Skill Increased! (10 - Maxed)
Tyson stood at ground level just below the transporter control console, mentally preparing himself for the next round of Vulcan transports. He noticed that his skills hadn't increased after the fifth round, so he decided to change his approach. As the first Vulcan materialized on the transporter pad, he stunned them as usual. However, he allowed the other Vulcan, a powerfully built man, to fully materialize and engage him in melee combat. Though Tyson knew it was a risky move, he also realized that he needed to improve his skills if he wanted to survive in this dangerous universe.
Tyson v. Vulcan 16: Punch = Failure.
Vulcan 16 v. Tyson: Punch = Major Success! 5 Damage (73/120)
The Vulcan slave struck him with a powerful blow that far surpassed the force of the security grunt's punch earlier. Tyson reeled from the impact but managed to stay on his feet.
Determined to prevail, Tyson pushed through the pain and returned a series of punches. His Gamer abilities allowed him to adapt quickly, learning from each exchange of blows. With each strike, he felt his skills improving, even as he took heavy hits from the Vulcan.
Tyson v. Vulcan 16: Punch = Major Success! 3 Damage (7/10)
Vulcan 16 v. Tyson: Punch = Failure.
Tyson v. Vulcan 16: Punch = Major Success! 8 Damage (0/10)
Martial Arts Skill Increased! (4)
Finally, after a few more punches, Tyson landed a solid blow that staggered the Vulcan slave. Seizing the opportunity, he followed up with a swift uppercut, knocking the Vulcan unconscious.
Tyson v. Vulcan 18: Punch = Critical Failure!
+1 Luck (1).
Negative Status Effect Gained!
Vulnerable.
-5 Defenses and Resistances until the start of your next turn.
Vulcan 18 v. Tyson: Punch = Major Success! 13 Damage (60/120)
Tyson v. Vulcan 18: Punch = Critical Success! 8 Damage (2/10)
Vulcan 18 v. Tyson: Punch = Major Success! 9 Damage (51/120)
Martial Arts Skill Increased! (5)
Tyson v. Vulcan 18: Punch = Major Success! 7 Damage (0/10)
Martial Arts Skill Increased! (6)
As Tyson prepared to face the next Vulcan, he noticed that this one appeared more adept than the others he had encountered. With a determined expression, the Vulcan stepped off the transporter pad and assumed a ready stance. Tyson swung at the Vulcan, but his punch went wide, leaving him vulnerable to a counterattack. The Vulcan seized the opportunity, landing a heavy blow that sent pain shooting through Tyson's body. Despite the pain, Tyson managed to return a powerful punch of his own, striking the Vulcan squarely in the chest.
The Vulcan countered with another solid hit, this one to Tyson's ribs, and The Gamer felt the impact reverberate through his body. He was starting to look worse for wear, but he knew he couldn't back down. Gritting his teeth, Tyson threw a haymaker with all his strength and landed the final blow, catching the Vulcan off guard and knocking him unconscious. As Tyson stood over the fallen Vulcan, he panted heavily, his body aching from the intense combat. With each battle, Tyson was improving in his abilities. Despite the pain and the moral challenges, he knew he had no choice but to push forward and adapt.
Tyson approached the transporter chief and asked the man to instruct him on using the transporter system and selecting targets. The chief agreed and showed him the controls and targeting systems.
Skill Unlocked!
Computers (level 1) - A skill to operate and manipulate computer systems. This skill governs starship operations, hacking, and coding as well. Skill level cannot exceed the governing attribute, Intelligence.
Tyson was able to select the targets for the next round. He ended up grabbing a child from one ship, and a female Vulcan from the other. He used the phaser on the child, certain that stunning the kid was better than hitting him. Then, he turned his attention to the woman.
Selar (Lvl 1 - Boss)
{Corruption - 0/19}
Defense: R: 12, F: 12, W: 12.
Hit Points: 18/18.
Melee: Punch +3 (3d4+3)
Attributes: Strength 11, Dexterity 10, Constitution 12, Intelligence 9, Wisdom 10, Charisma 9.
Skills: Medicine +9.
Vulcan Strength: Vulcans are Triple the Strength of Humans and do 3x the normal damage dice worth of damage with unarmed attacks.
The female Vulcan had a strong, almost regal presence, despite her worn appearance. Her face was gaunt, with sharp cheekbones and piercing eyes. Her hair, normally a sleek, Vulcan bob, was now disheveled and unkempt, falling in ragged strands around her face. Her clothes were reduced to tattered, dirt-streaked rags that barely clung to her slender frame.
The most outstanding feature, however, was a metal collar bound around her neck – the mark of her enslavement. It stood in stark contrast to the calm, poised demeanor she managed to maintain, despite her situation. As Tyson approached her, he couldn't help but feel a pang of sympathy for the woman. She had endured so much, and now he had to fight her. But he knew he had little choice.
With a deep breath, Tyson raised his fists and prepared for combat. He hoped to end the fight quickly and with minimal harm to the female Vulcan, but he knew that wouldn't be easy. Even in her weakened state, she was a Vulcan and possessed superior physical strength.
Tyson v. Selar: Punch = Success! 6 Damage (12/18)
Selar v. Tyson: Punch = Success! 8 Damage (43/120)
Tyson v. Selar: Punch = Failure.
Selar v. Tyson: Punch = Success! 12 Damage (31/120)
Tyson v. Selar: Punch = Success! 7 Damage (5/18)
Selar v. Tyson: Punch = Major Success! 12 Damage (19/120)
Tyson v. Selar: Punch = Major Success! 7 Damage (0/18)
Martial Arts Skill Increased! (7)
Tyson and Selar faced each other, battered and bruised from the earlier fights. They locked eyes for a moment, acknowledging the inevitability of their confrontation. Then, with no warning, Tyson launched himself at Selar, his fist connecting with her face. The powerful punch sent her reeling, but she quickly recovered and retaliated with a swift, uppercut to his jaw, leaving Tyson shaking his head as pain coursed through his jaw.
Undeterred, Tyson tried to land another punch, but Selar deftly dodged his attack. She seized the opportunity and struck him with an elbow to the head, sending him staggering backward. Tyson could feel his strength waning, but he refused to give in. He mustered all his remaining energy and managed to connect with another punch, leaving Selar visibly weakened. However, Selar was not one to be easily defeated. With a surge of adrenaline, she delivered a fierce punch that caught Tyson off guard. The blow to the solar plexus caused him to stumble and nearly collapsed, unable to breathe for a moment. The intensity of the sensation threatened to overwhelm him, but he fought to stay on his feet, his determination to survive driving him forward.
With a final burst of strength, Selar failed to block Tyson's swing. He landed a devastating punch right between her right eye and temple, knocking her to the ground. She lay there, motionless, her eyes staring blankly at the ceiling. Tyson could feel relief and regret wash over him as he stared at the defeated Vulcan. He had won the fight, but at what cost?
Despite the grim circumstances, Tyson couldn't ignore the strength of the Vulcan woman. His interface informed him he could've only taken two or three more hits from her. And, even in defeat, she possessed a beauty that seemed to transcend the brutality of the mirror universe. But then Tyson stared at the unconscious form of the Vulcan child. He couldn't help but feel a pang of guilt for the life they were forced to endure.
Captain Picard's voice came through the ship's communicator, and he wondered if he had truly made the right decision. "Good news for you, Ensign," Picard's voice rang out. "Your gambit paid off. It seems, abducting a child and the leader of their revolution was enough to force their hand. Both convoy ships have surrendered. If you're injured, report to Sickbay and await my arrival."
"Acknowledged, Captain," Tyson replied, the satisfaction of saving over two thousand lives providing a fleeting sense of accomplishment. But as he looked at the young child, unconscious and helpless, and the beautiful Vulcan woman who had fought him with such ferocity, he couldn't shake the nagging feeling that he had merely prolonged their suffering.
19x Vulcan Slaves Defeated!
475 Experience Gained! (485/1000)
Vulcan Boss (Selar) Defeated!
100 Experience Gained! (585/1000)
~~Star Trek: TMG~~
The sickbay of the ISS Stargazer was a far cry from the pristine medical facilities Tyson had hoped for. The room was dimly lit, with outdated equipment scattered around the room, and a faint smell of antiseptic hanging in the air. Nevertheless, it was here that Dr. Pulaski greeted Tyson with a stern but professional demeanor.
"Ensign, take a seat," she instructed, motioning towards the nearest biobed. "Let's see what kind of damage you've done to yourself."
As Tyson lay down, Dr. Pulaski began her examination. Her skilled hands deftly moved over his battered body, assessing the injuries he had sustained in his confrontations with the Vulcans. "You've got a broken rib and multiple contusions," she informed him, "but I should be able to get you patched up in under an hour. You'll still be sore for a while, though."
As Dr. Pulaski busied herself with her medical equipment, Tyson winced at the pain but took solace in the fact that he would soon be on the mend. Just as his treatment was nearing completion, the doors to the sickbay slid open to reveal Captain Picard and Lieutenant Yar, both wearing stern expressions.
Picard's eyes immediately settled on Tyson, his gaze seemingly assessing the young ensign's condition. "Ensign Tyson," he began, his voice firm, "I came to see how you're faring after your rather... unconventional approach to handling the situation with the Vulcan slaves."
Yar's eyes, however, were filled with a mix of anger, resentment, and begrudging respect as she looked at Tyson. It was clear that she hadn't forgiven him for defying her orders, but she couldn't deny the effectiveness of his methods.
Tyson, now sitting up on the biobed, met the captain's gaze and prepared to face whatever consequences awaited him for his actions.
Captain Picard regarded Tyson with a mix of sternness and approval. "Ensign Tyson," he began, "you managed to handle the situation with the Vulcan slaves successfully, despite the unorthodox methods you employed. For that, I commend you." A flicker of pride crossed Tyson's face, but it was short-lived as Picard continued, "As a reward for your efforts, you will be assigned junior officer's quarters. However, your actions also constitute insubordination, and for that, there must be consequences." Tyson tensed, bracing himself for the captain's judgment. "Considering the positive outcome of your actions, I will reduce your sentence to one hour in the agony booth," Picard pronounced, his voice revealing that he believed it was kindness on his part.
Tyson swallowed hard. He knew better than to protest or show weakness in front of the captain.
"Once your punishment has been served, you will be assigned to the security division under Lieutenant Yar," Picard added, casting a meaningful glance at the steely-eyed officer standing beside him. "I trust you will learn to work together more effectively in the future."
Yar's expression looked eager. It was clear she would not easily forget the challenge to her authority. Tyson knew he would have to tread carefully.
"Yes, Captain," Tyson replied, his voice steady despite the dread that gripped him at the thought of the agony booth.
Tyson was led down a dimly lit corridor by a pair of stone-faced security officers, with Lieutenant Yar following close behind. They stopped before a heavy, reinforced door that slid open with an ominous hiss. Beyond it lay the agony booth – a cruel instrument of torture. The booth was a small, transparent chamber, just large enough to accommodate a standing humanoid. Tyson was forcefully ushered inside. The door slammed shut behind him, and the agony booth sprang to life. Tyson's body was suddenly enveloped by a web of searing energy. The pain was immediate and unbearable as if every nerve ending in his body was being simultaneously burned and crushed. He clenched his teeth and tried to stifle his screams, but they tore from his throat involuntarily.
Outside the booth, Lieutenant Yar watched with a twisted smile as Tyson writhed in agony. The soundproof walls of the chamber muted his cries, but the contortions of his body left no doubt as to the torment he was experiencing. Yar savored every moment of his suffering, reveling in the display of her power over him.
As the minutes ticked by, Tyson's pain only intensified. The energy web tightened, its tendrils burrowing deeper into his flesh and searing through muscle and bone. His body trembled with the effort of remaining upright, sweat pouring from his brow and mingling with the small amount of blood that trickled from his nostrils. The Gamer's mind was a track of anguish and despair that was stuck on repeat. Where each passing second felt like an eternity. The booth offered no reprieve or mercy, only an unrelenting onslaught of pain that threatened to shatter his very sanity. Yet through it all, he clung to a desperate hope – the knowledge that the hour would eventually end, and he would somehow survive this ordeal.
Finally, after what felt like a lifetime of suffering, the booth's timer hit zero. The energy web dissipated, leaving Tyson's body bruised and battered, but mercifully free of pain. The door swung open, and he stumbled out, collapsing to the floor in a heap of exhaustion and relief. Lieutenant Yar loomed over him, her eyes cold and satisfied. "I hope you've learned your lesson, Ensign," she sneered, her voice dripping with malice. "Remember this pain, and know that I won't hesitate to send you back here if you ever defy me again."
Tyson could only nod weakly, his body and spirit broken, but his determination to survive in this brutal and unforgiving universe only strengthened.
You have slept in a bed. All Hit Points and Corruption recovered and negative status effects were removed.
Tyson awoke in a dimly lit, unfamiliar room. His surroundings were sparse and utilitarian, with a narrow bed pressed against the wall, a small metallic desk, and a compact storage unit to accommodate his belongings. Despite its simplicity, it was a sanctuary of sorts in this harsh and unforgiving reality.
As his eyes adjusted to the low light, Tyson realized he was in his new quarters. He briefly inspected his body and felt an overwhelming relief to discover that his health was fully recovered. A sudden beeping at the door caught his attention, alerting him that someone was waiting outside. Cautiously, he rose to his feet, prepared for any potential hostility, and called out, "Enter."
The door hissed open, revealing Captain Picard, who stepped into the room with an air of authority. Following closely behind him was Selar, her appearance now polished and refined. Her short, raven-black hair and sharp, angular features are accentuated by the soft glow of the room's lighting. The deep, forest-green hue of her eyes betrayed a sense of vulnerability beneath her stoic expression. Yet, the slave collar encircling her neck was a stark reminder of her subservient status.
"Ensign Tyson," Picard began, "your actions during the uprising have not gone unnoticed. As a reward for your service, the Department of Slavery has decided to grant you a gift." He gestured towards Selar, who stood silently beside him. "This Vulcan," he continued, "was the instigator of the rebellion you helped quell. The transporter chief indicated that you had an encounter with her and the Department wishes to be rid of her, they've deemed her a fitting prize for you. Additionally, they've credited a generous sum to your account for your contributions to maintaining order. Congratulations, Ensign."
Energy Credits: 10,000
With that, Picard turned and exited the room, but his gaze lingered on the side of Tyson's head for a moment. The look was distinct enough to give Tyson pause, but he dismissed it as the Captain didn't comment. He simply left. Tyson found himself alone with Selar. The door slid shut, and the room was filled with an uneasy silence. Tyson looked at Selar, taking in her composed appearance. A mixture of emotions surged through him – guilt at having her as a prize, anger at the injustices of the mirror universe, and a growing sense of responsibility for her wellbeing. He approached her cautiously and spoke in a gentle tone, "I don't know what kind of life you had before, but I promise you, I'll do my best to protect you and treat you with respect."
Tyson regarded Selar, his heart heavy with the knowledge that she was now considered his property. Selar looked into Tyson's eyes, her expression unreadable. He gestured to the bed, inviting Selar to take a seat. She obliged, her posture impeccable even as she settled onto the narrow mattress. With her piercing green eyes focused on Tyson, she patiently awaited his next words.
"Tell me about yourself," Tyson asked gently, his voice tinged with curiosity and concern.
Selar hesitated for a moment before beginning her story. "I was born on Vulcan, but my family was captured and enslaved when I was a child. We were taken to the Terran Empire, where I was separated from my parents and raised by other enslaved Vulcans. They did their best to preserve our culture, teaching me the Vulcan way of life, logic, and our rich history. However, our lives were dictated by our human masters, and I was forced to adapt to survive."
"As I grew older, my natural aptitude for medicine became apparent, and I was trained as a doctor under the supervision of my captors. They saw my skills as an asset and used them to their advantage. I was assigned to various locations across the Empire, treating both slaves and their masters. It was during my time at a slave labor camp that I encountered an underground resistance movement. The idea of freedom was enticing, and I became involved in their efforts, doing what I could to aid my fellow Vulcans."
"Unfortunately, our rebellion was discovered, and I was captured once again. The Department of Slavery decided to make an example of me, using my fate as a deterrent to others who might dare to dream of freedom. And that is how I came to be in your possession, Ensign Tyson."
As Selar recounted her past, Tyson listened intently, his heart aching for the pain and suffering she had endured. Selar's voice turned cold as she regarded Tyson with a mixture of disdain and bitterness. "You may act sympathetic, Ensign, but it was you who recaptured us, who beat me and the other Vulcans in your misguided attempt to subdue the rebellion. We could have escaped, but instead, you ensured our continued enslavement. You are a traitor to your race."
Tyson shook his head as Selar spoke, not wanting to accept her words, though he knew they were true. Until her last statement. Tyson asked, "Traitor to my race? What do you mean?"
His strange question bled some of the callousness from her voice, "Are you not Vulcan, or half-Vulcan? Or Romulan? It is inconsequential. Working with the Terrans is deplorable regardless of your origins."
The Gamer had no response beyond blinking at her dumbly. Suspicion crept into his mind, forcing him to walk over to the room's lone mirror. His reflection made him understand Selar's presumption. Tyson was moderately tall for a human, and it had escaped his notice initially when he'd awoke, but he was now taller. The mirror showed his face, normally clean shaved, was starting to grow stubble around his chin, but what grabbed his attention was his ears. When Tyson turned his head, he saw that they were undoubtedly pointed with the swooping curve in the back. He was confused, but immediately guessed Corruption was the culprit. He absorbed Corruption from several Vulcans earlier, and the action must have taken some of the characteristics along with it.
Tyson had no means of explaining his Vulcan-like appearance, so instead he tried to explain his actions. "Selar, I understand why you feel that way, but you have to understand the circumstances I was facing. If I hadn't intervened, the uprising convoy ships would have been destroyed. The Stargazer had photon torpedoes locked when I intervened. If I hadn't acted, thousands of innocent lives would have been lost. I did what I thought was the best option to save as many lives as possible."
Selar's eyes narrowed as she listened to his explanation. The tension between them was palpable, but she could see the sincerity in Tyson's eyes, the anguish he felt over the difficult choices he had made. "Perhaps you believed you were acting in our best interests, Ensign, but the reality remains that we are still slaves. We may be alive, but we are not free." Her voice trembled faintly as she worked to restrain her emotions.
Tyson nodded, acknowledging her pain and frustration. "I know that I can't change the past or the decisions I made. I want to help you and the other Vulcans. I can't promise freedom right now, but I will do everything in my power to make your life better and to find a way to change this cruel system."
Tyson intended to continue trying to convince Selar of his good intentions when the sound of an incoming communication interrupted him. He hesitated for a moment before answering. As he accepted the communication, Yar's voice came through, harsh and impatient. "Ensign Tyson, report to the bridge immediately. I expect to see you here in five minutes."
Tyson clenched his jaw, trying to suppress his irritation at Yar's tone. "Understood, Lieutenant. I'll be there shortly."
As he ended the communication, Tyson turned back to Selar, his expression apologetic. "I have to go, duty calls. I'll be back as soon as I can. In the meantime, please make yourself comfortable, it seems these are your quarters for now as well. Spartan as they may be."
Selar nodded, her eyes still holding a hint of suspicion, but also curiosity. "Very well, Ensign. I will await your return."
Tyson, still unfamiliar with the layout of the ship, quickly found himself lost on the way to the bridge. By the time he finally arrived, he was more than five minutes late, and Yar was visibly displeased.
"You're late, Ensign," Yar hissed, her eyes narrowing. "There will be consequences for this, but for now, you're here to learn."
Yar proceeded to spend the next hour going through the operation of the ship's weapons and shields with Tyson, explaining each system in detail. The Gamer was familiarized with the targeting systems for photon torpedoes and phasers and began to learn the intricacies of shield harmonics and frequencies.
Skill Unlocked!
Heavy Weapons (level 1) - A skill to operate Large, powerful weapons that usually require a brace or tripod to operate fall under the category of Heavy Weapons, as do even larger weapons mounted to Vehicles and Starships. Skill level cannot exceed the governing attribute, Strength.
Once they had finished with the lesson, Yar turned to Tyson, her expression cold and unforgiving. "Now, it's time for your punishment, Ensign. Follow me."
She led him through the ship's corridors, finally stopping in front of her quarters. As she opened the door and gestured for Tyson to enter, a feeling of dread settled in his stomach. He couldn't help but wonder what sort of punishment awaited him behind the door.
As they entered Yar's quarters, Tyson took note of the stark contrast between his spartan accommodations and Yar's lavishly decorated room. It was a clear reminder of the power dynamics at play on the ship
He remembered the last time he had been in trouble: the agony booth. Shuddering, he awaited Yar's orders. "I expected better of you, Ensign," Yar said, her tone sharp. "But perhaps it's time for a different approach." She gestured at a series of restraints mounted to the wall. "Remove your uniform and bind yourself to the wall."
Tyson hesitated, but the look in Yar's eyes told him it was better not to argue. He removed his uniform and more changes from using Absorb Corruption became evident. His physique improved noticeably with the increases in Strength and Constitution.
He locked the restraints around his ankles, then one wrist, leaving himself vulnerable and exposed. Yar approached him, her eyes never leaving his face. She restrained his other wrist then picked up a long, thin whip from a nearby table, examining it with a twisted grin. "You've never experienced discipline like this before, have you, Tyson?"
"No, ma'am," he whispered, fear and anticipation making his voice tremble.
Yar smirked and began her work. She used the whip to deliver sharp, stinging lashes to Tyson's back, each one more painful than the last. Despite the pain, Tyson couldn't deny that this was far better than the constant, unrelenting pain of the agony booth. As Yar continued her work, Tyson's mind began to shift. The pain seemed to blur, his mind wandering as to how he'd arrived in this vulnerable position. This was his second round of torture since he'd arrived. He was not off to a good start in this universe. Each strike of the whip brought him closer to missing his previous, mundane existence.
When Yar finally stopped, Tyson's body was a mosaic of cuts and blood. She stepped back, observing her handiwork with satisfaction. "Now, Ensign," she said, her voice cold and unyielding, "you will remember your place."
"Yes, ma'am," Tyson gasped, his voice strained with pain.
Yar's demeanor shifted as she stepped away, leaving Tyson to process the pain and humiliation he'd just experienced. He watched her walk to a table on the other side of the room and retrieve a bowl of water and a soft handcloth. Confusion flickered across Tyson's face as she approached him once more.
To his surprise, Yar began to gently dab at the lacerations on his body with the damp cloth. Her touch was delicate and tender, in stark contrast to the violence she had just unleashed upon him. The soothing sensation of the cool water on his raw, burning skin was a welcome relief, and Tyson couldn't help but lean into her touch. As she continued to clean his wounds, Yar's expression softened, her earlier ferocity seemed to have dissipated. The water in the bowl slowly turned a pale shade of red as she rinsed the cloth between applications. Tyson found himself entranced by the paradox of Yar's dual nature: the brutal disciplinarian and the gentle caretaker. It was a powerful combination.
"You need to understand the consequences of your actions, Ensign," Yar murmured, her voice low and warm. "But I also want you to know that I am not beyond giving you what you need."
As she finished tending to his wounds, a part of him craved her approval and even her touch, despite the pain she could inflict. The red-tinted water in the bowl served as a vivid reminder of the duality of their interaction, the line between pain and comfort blurred. As Tyson stood there, his wounds cleaned and his body aching, he knew that Yar had successfully asserted her control over him, but it seemed she wasn't finished. His bindings were attached to a square frame, and she rotated the frame so he could see the room and her. As Tyson watched Yar, he couldn't help but feel a mixture of apprehension and fascination. She moved with purpose and confidence, her eyes never leaving his. Yar took a step back, giving him a full view of her form.
With deliberate slowness, she reached for the fastening of her uniform. She carefully undid it, allowing the fabric to slip from her shoulders and fall to the ground. Yar revealed a form-fitting, black garment beneath that accentuated her toned physique. The room seemed to grow warmer as she continued, her fingers nimbly working to remove the last remaining barriers between them. As Yar stripped away each piece of clothing, she did so with a sense of control that left Tyson feeling both vulnerable and captivated. Her movements were graceful and fluid, creating an almost hypnotic effect. Tyson couldn't tear his gaze away, despite the lingering pain from the punishment he had just endured. The intensity in her eyes never wavered, making it clear that she was in complete control of the situation.
Finally, Yar stood before him, her body fully exposed. The sight of her strong, yet feminine form only served to heighten the sense of tension in the room. Tyson was acutely aware of his own vulnerability, but Yar's deliberate display of control had achieved its goal. She had successfully asserted her dominance, using pain and caring, then switched to seduction to keep Tyson off-balance
Yar gently pressed herself against Tyson, her body just barely making contact with him. The sensation was both surprising and confusing, especially after the torment he had just experienced. As Yar continued to softly brush against him, Tyson found himself unable to resist the magnetic pull of her presence. His body responded to her touch despite the pain she had inflicted on him earlier. With each calculated movement, Yar continued to press herself gently against Tyson. The pain from his earlier punishment seemed to fade into the background as he focused on the softness of her touch and the heat of her body.
After a few lingering moments, Yar stepped back and moved to the square frame holding Tyson. She expertly rotated it, causing him to face the ceiling. With a few more adjustments, she positioned the frame over the bed, allowing Tyson to lie down on the soft mattress, his limbs still bound. The sensation of the cool sheets against his skin contrasted sharply with the warmth of Yar's earlier touch.
Tyson lay on the bed, his limbs bound and his body aching from the experiences he had just endured. Yar slowly approached the bed, her movements deliberate. She crawled over Tyson, positioning herself above him. It was clear that Yar intended to take whatever she desired from him. The power dynamics between them had been firmly established through their earlier interactions, and now she was in complete control. Tyson could only watch as Yar proceeded to assert her dominance. She wrapped one hand around his neck and used the other to guide him into her slick folds. No further foreplay was needed, everything she'd done to him had her ready to accept his length. As she rode him, her grip on his neck tightened, but she knew what she was doing. Slowing the blood flow to his brain increased his pleasure and prolonged his finish, allowing her to savor the feeling of him and dragging out the experience.
Skill Unlocked!
Perform (level 1) - A skill dictating how good you are at entertaining. This skill governs acting, singing, dancing, musical instruments, and adult activities. Skill level cannot exceed the governing attribute, Charisma.
Perform Check (DC:15) = 21 Critical Success!
Perform Skill Increased! (2)
Tyson watched as Yar's expression changed. Her face flushed, and her breaths became more rapid. As she reached her climax, a powerful and intense energy filled the room. It was clear that Yar had achieved what she sought, asserting her control and taking what she desired from their encounter. Tyson, still bound and at her mercy, could only observe the display of dominance. As the intensity of the moment subsided, Yar looked down at Tyson, her eyes filled with satisfaction.
Yar could still feel Tyson inside her, his hardness still pressing deliciously against her deep inner ridges, she could feel that he had not yet finished. A part of her knew that it would be wise to leave things as they were, with her firmly in control. However, she found herself conflicted, having enjoyed their encounter more than she had anticipated. Against her better judgment, Yar decided to continue. There was a subtle shift in her demeanor as Yar began to focus on Tyson's needs. Her movements were deliberate, arching her back as she pulled up, and curling it in when she thrust back onto him. Maximizing his pleasure, and her own, when she took him deep and squeezed her inner muscles, as she sought to guide him towards a similar peak. As she continued, the power dynamics between them seemed to blur slightly, as Yar allowed herself to be momentarily vulnerable in her pursuit of mutual satisfaction. Tyson sensed this weakness and thrust upwards as much as his bindings allowed when she descended. The room was filled with an undeniable intensity as their moans increased in a matching duet. Tyson was determined to squeeze another orgasm from her before he reached release.
Yar's breaths grew quicker and more shallow, her flushed face and body signaling that she was reaching her second peak. Tyson could feel the tension building within him, the energy between them reaching a crescendo. As Yar came a second time, the rhythmic contractions of her inner walls caused an overwhelming sensation that pushed Tyson over the edge as well. Together, they experienced a powerful release. A purple glow suffused them, but neither noticed as they both had their eyes closed as they rode the powerful sensations to completion.
The room fell quiet as the intensity of the moment subsided. Tyson and Yar, both emotionally and physically spent. In the end, the line between dominance and submission had become blurred, and they had ventured into uncharted territory.
Hidden Quest Complete!
Roddenberry's Universe I - You're A Man Now.
Gene Roddenberry, the creator of Star Trek, had some interesting ideas about sex. Many of his ideas that involved sex were toned down for network television; Nude Betazoid weddings, Ferengi with huge dongs, Klingons' violent mating practices, the list goes on and on. In this case, you skipped late-night HBO and jumped straight to 50 Shades. Reward:
+1 Social skill.
+1 Perform skill.
Corruption Power Unlocked: 'Corrupted Seed'
This perk allows you to implant a corruptive "seed" into people, objects, or pieces of land. This "seed", is implanted by condensing and implanting your entire corruption pool when in physical contact with someone/something. It turns whatever you give it into a self-sustaining font of your corruptive energy. This means a corrupted item/person/place will generate Corruption without you needing to refuel them and let your corruption grow like an infection. If the item is a weapon, and your Corruption Pool is greater than the weapon's maximum Corruption, it no longer needs to be recharged. Note: This power is triggered automatically during unprotected intercourse. Synergy: When you Absorb Corruption and choose to kill the target, you gain a Corrupted Seed.
Note: This power is triggered automatically during unprotected intercourse.
Synergy: When you Absorb Corruption and choose to kill the target, you gain a Corrupted Seed.
Hidden Quest Complete!
Roddenberry's Universe II - Who's the Fairest of All.
You saw something in the mirror and decided it was worth sexing. Terrans aren't aliens, but banging a chick from a different dimension/universe should be worth something.
Reward:
+1 Social skill.
+1 Perform skill.
X2 Corruption Pool Modifier.
Corruption Power Unlocked: 'Corrupted Takedown'
You gain the ability to channel pure Corruption energy into your weapons, including things like fists and vehicle-mounted weapons, as well as into your powers or spells. Your weapons and powers/spells will have their damage converted into pure Corruption damage, no longer reducing health. Corruption damage leaves phantom wounds, so if you were to make an attack that would have normally taken off a limb they, temporarily, won't be able to use it. It also has a magical acid-like effect on clothing, armor, and weapons making it much easier to disarm someone and crack open their defenses. Your Corruption can discriminate against targets. For example, if you were to throw a Corrupted fireball at a group of soldiers then those of your choosing will get Corruption damage while everyone else gets burnt to a crisp. Corruption-infused attacks protect their targets from indirect damage. For example, you could punch someone off a skyscraper and when they hit the ground they'd just get dealt Corruption damage just like if you had attacked them.
Skill Unlocked!
Social (level 3) - A skill used to persuade others to agree with your arguments, resolve differences, utilize proper etiquette, and gather valuable information. This skill is also used to negotiate, bluff, intimidate, deceive, persuade, and barter. Skill level cannot exceed the governing attribute, Charisma.
Constitution Check (DC: 10): Passed.
Perform Check (DC:20) = 7 Major Failure!
Yar's mind was clouded by bliss and she unconsciously reached up to untie Tyson's hands, allowing him more freedom of movement, thinking they were finished. Once his hands were free, Tyson wrapped his arms around Yar, keeping his body close as he began thrusting once again. In her overwhelmed state, she hadn't realized that he was still hard. Surprised by his newfound determination, Yar found herself caught off guard. Tyson relaxed his grip on Yar, allowing her to push her hands into his chest and continue riding.
Tyson reached up and placed his hands gently on Yar's neck. The gesture was unexpected, and the power dynamics between them seemed to shift once again. Yar and Tyson locked eyes, and at that moment, they both understood that their relationship had changed. Though Yar had initially sought to assert her dominance, the intimate encounter had challenged them both. Yar's eyes widened as Tyson's hands squeezed against her neck, mirroring the gesture she had made earlier. The sensation was both unexpected and exhilarating, sending a shiver down her spine at her vulnerability. Yar couldn't help but throw her head back in response, her expression a mixture of surprise and ecstasy.
Power Activated: 'Corrupted Takedown'
Tyson continued to apply pressure, increasing his grip far more than he would have earlier. With his new power, he didn't have to worry about harming Yar, any injury she would have sustained was instantly converted to Corruption. The power dynamics shifted completely as Yar gave in to Tyson's strength and ministrations. She found herself enthralled by this new development, her body responding to Tyson's touch in ways she hadn't anticipated.
Tyson found himself overwhelmed by the intensity of the encounter with Yar. The emotional rollercoaster he had experienced – from the initial pain and vulnerability to the unexpected tenderness and shared intimacy – had taken its toll on him. As she alternated between riding and grinding and he continued thrusting, Tyson struggled to keep up with the sensations coursing through his body. He was acutely aware that this intense experience was unlike anything he had ever encountered before. With every breath and touch, Tyson felt himself drawing closer to his limit. He quickly succumbed to the overwhelming sensations, unable to prolong the moment any further, and unable to last until she peaked again. He released inside her a second time, the purple glow suffusing their bodies yet again. Yar shook her head, thinking that her bliss-addled mind was creating visual hallucinations, or the lack of oxygen to her brain was starting to have an effect.
In the quiet aftermath, Tyson and Yar lay entwined, their bodies and emotions still intertwined from their intense encounter.
Skill Unlocked!
Athletics (level 1) - This skill determines the success of an action requiring endurance, strength, or feats of dexterity that are out of the ordinary. It covers a wide range of activities including grappling, jumping, lifting, balancing, tumbling, swimming, and how much extra weight you can carry while doing so. Skill level cannot exceed the governing attribute, Greatest of Constitution, Dexterity, or Strength.
Athletics Check {Grapple} (DC:20) = 9 Automatic Success, Unresisted!
Tyson v. Yar: Choke = Unresisted! 12x12 Corruption Damage (266/522)
Athletics Skill Increased! (3)
Tyson and Yar both lay on the floor of her quarters, their bodies slick with sweat and utterly exhausted. With a grin on her face, Yar slapped him on the arm like he was a teammate. "Good job, Ensign. That's how you fulfill your duty," she said, a mix of satisfaction and malice in her voice.
She unbound his ankles and then lay down on the bed. "Now get out of my quarters," she commanded, her voice already growing drowsy.
As Tyson hurriedly stood up and began to dress in his uniform, he heard Yar's light snoring as she drifted off to sleep. He took the opportunity to Observe her for a moment, his mind racing with conflicting emotions.
Tasha Yar (Lvl 6)
{Corruption - 327/522}
Defense: R: 18, F: 22, W: 18.
Hit Points: 86/86.
Melee: Punch +5 (1d4+7)
Melee: Knife +6 (1d6+7)
Range: Phaser +5 (3d6+3)
Attributes: Strength 16, Dexterity 8, Constitution 18, Intelligence 10, Wisdom 8, Charisma 14.
Skills: Athletics +7.
Traits: Weapon Proficiency (Phasers), Weapon Focus (Simple Weapons), Weapon Proficiency (Simple Weapons)
Negative Status Effect: Corrupted Seed (x2)
Noticing the sonic shower in Yar's quarters, Tyson decided to risk using it to clean himself up. It was a novel experience, the sound waves efficiently removing the grime and sweat from his body. He rushed through the process, not wanting to be caught by Yar if she were to awaken. Seeing her so vulnerable, he considered taking further action against her. But, she had taken his seed. All he needed to do was wait. Once he was clean and dressed, Tyson cautiously made his way out of Yar's quarters.
Tyson's mood elevated as he left Yar's quarters, not just because he'd gotten laid, he was feeling more determined than ever to make the most of his situation. As a Gamer, he knew this was the prime time to grind and improve his skills. With that in mind, he headed towards engineering to learn more about the ship's inner workings. Tyson unexpectedly found himself walking side by side with Commander Data. The android looked different, with additional parts that made him appear halfway between a standard android and a Borg. Tyson couldn't help but feel a mixture of fascination and unease at Data's augmented appearance.
As they continued down the corridor, they came upon a scuffle. An ensign was on top of Lieutenant Barclay, brandishing a knife and ready to strike. Data's expression remained neutral, but he prepared to intervene. However, Tyson spoke up before Data could act. "Don't trouble yourself, Commander. I can handle this." He stepped forward with confidence, swiftly delivering a powerful kick that sent the Ensign tumbling off of Barclay.
Barclay looked up at Tyson with a mixture of gratitude and surprise, his chest heaving as he tried to catch his breath. The Ensign, meanwhile, scrambled to his feet, his face contorted in anger and humiliation as he glared at Tyson. The Ensign's face turned a deep shade of red as he shouted at Tyson, "Who are you to interfere, new guy? It's time for me not to be the low man anymore, and you'll make just as good an example."
Ensign, Red Shirt (Lvl 1)
{Corruption - 0/13}
Defense: R: 11, F: 10, W: 10.
Hit Points: 12/12.
Melee: Punch +3 (1d4)
Attributes: Strength 10, Dexterity 12, Constitution 10, Intelligence 14, Wisdom 10, Charisma 10.
Skills: Physical Sciences: +9, Engineering +9, Pilot +8, Computers +9
Vehicular Combat: Once per round (as a Reaction), when you are piloting a Vehicle or Starship, you may negate a weapon hit by making a successful Pilot check. The DC of the Skill Check is equal to the result of the attack roll you wish to negate. In addition, while you are piloting a Vehicle, you are considered proficient with pilot-operated Vehicle Weapons.
Tyson shot back without hesitation, "He's an engineer; he keeps this ship running. What do you run? Besides your mouth." The words struck a nerve, causing the Ensign's anger to boil over.
With a furious snarl, the Ensign charged at Tyson, his fists clenched and his eyes filled with rage. Tyson remained calm, allowing him to analyze the Ensign's movements and plan his defense.
Athletics Check {Grapple} (DC:20) = 3 Failure.
As the Ensign lunged toward him, Tyson sidestepped and attempted to grab the Ensign's arm and use his momentum against him, but Tyson also missed. The Ensign threw a punch that the Gamer managed to avoid, even while overextended. With a swift and well-timed Corrupted punch, Tyson sent the Ensign crashing into a nearby bulkhead. The impact echoed through the corridor, and the Ensign crumpled to the floor, groaning in pain.
Tyson v. Ensign: Punch = Success! 16 Corrupted Bludgeoning Damage (0/12)
Tyson turned to Barclay, who was now back on his feet, his expression a mix of relief and awe. "Are you all right, Lieutenant?" Tyson asked his voice firm but concerned.
Barclay nodded, still trying to process what had just transpired. "Yes, thank you, Ensign. I owe you one."
Tyson gave Barclay a brief nod before turning his attention back to the Ensign, who was struggling to stand up. Tyson reached out for the man, not to help him up, to absorb his Corruption and steal the aggressive man's talent.
Power Activated: 'Absorb Corruption'
Trait Added: 'Vehicular Combat'
Once per round (as a Reaction), when you are piloting a Vehicle or Starship, you may negate a weapon hit by making a successful Pilot check. The DC of the Skill Check is equal to the result of the attack roll you wish to negate. In addition, while you are piloting a Vehicle, you are considered proficient with pilot-operated Vehicle Weapons.
Skill Unlocked!
Pilot (level 1) - This skill dictates operating a Vehicle. The basic operation of a Vehicle does not require a skill check or special training, but performing evasive maneuvers and difficult stunts does. Skill level cannot exceed the governing attribute, Dexterity.
Data approached Tyson and Barclay, his cold mechanical voice cutting through the tense atmosphere. "I'll handle it from here," he said. "Perhaps the agony booth can teach him that it isn't appropriate to assault a superior officer." The half-Borg android effortlessly hoisted the defeated Ensign off the floor and dragged him away, leaving Tyson and Barclay alone in the corridor.
Tyson turned to Barclay, his expression resolute. "If you meant what you said about owing me, then help me in engineering. Teach me computer and engineering skills."
Barclay hesitated for a moment, still shaken by the confrontation, but then he met Tyson's determined gaze and nodded. "All right, Ensign. Follow me."
The two men made their way through the corridors of the ship, the dilapidated state of the vessel a constant reminder of the harsh reality. As they entered the engineering section, the hum of the ship's engines and the smell of burnt circuits filled the air. Barclay led Tyson to a console, where he began to explain the intricacies of the ship's computer systems and engineering principles. Tyson listened attentively, his mind absorbing the information like a sponge. He knew that gaining these skills would allow him to make a meaningful impact on the ship and its crew. The hours passed and the lessons continued, Tyson's skills grew and his knowledge expanded.
Engineering Skill Increased! (2)
Computers Skill Increased! (2)
Tyson returned to his quarters to dump his Corrupted Seed into his phaser and go to sleep.
And he couldn't help but chuckle at how bad that sounded.
AN: Thanks for reading! Hope you enjoyed the first chapter. Leave a review if you care to. This story is currently a planned to be a one-shot (4 chapters about 50k words). If this story matches my other in popularity, I'll pick it up as a regular story and continue past the first arc.
Tyson:
Title: (none)
Race: Human
Level: 1 (585/1000)
Energy Credits: 10,000
Hit Points: 10 x 12(Con) = 120/120
Corruption Pool = Cumulative Attribute Score x2 = 108/120
Armor: Reflex: 10+ 1(Level) +0(Dex Mod) = 11
Fortitude: 10+ 1(Level) + 1(Con Mod) = 12
Will: 10+ 1(Level) + 0(Wis mod) = 11
Strength: 11
Dexterity: 10
Constitution: 12
Intelligence: 10
Wisdom: 10
Charisma: 7
Luck: 1
Status Effects: (none)
Traits:
Racial ('Vulcan Strength:11 CP')
Powers (Absorb Corruption, Corrupted Seed, Corrupted Takedown)
Ship ('Vehicular Combat:12 CP')
Skills: Athletics: Lvl 3 (Con, Str, Dex)
Computers: Lvl 2 (Int)
Energy Weapons: Lvl 10 (Dex-Maxed)
Engineering: Lvl 2 (Int)
Heavy Weapons: Lvl 1 (Str)
Martial Arts: Lvl 7 (Dex)
Perform: Lvl 4 (Cha)
Piloting: Lvl 1 (Dex)
Social: Lvl 3 (Cha)
Perks:
'Out of Nowhere'
'Corruption'
Drawbacks:
'Q and U'
'Dark Mirror'
Attacks:
Phaser: +10 (15 Damage)
Punch: +7 (3d4+7 Damage)