Disclaimer: If you recognize it, I don't own it.
AN: Star Wars XOver doesn't begin until around 80k words, so if you're here for that it'll be a while. Hope you enjoy it and stick with it until then!

Edited: 6/3/23 - Fixed Formatting, and some content that received negative feedback. Updated this chapter to better reflect my current writing. I may edit all the old chapters, but first impressions matter!

Star Trek TNG: The Next Gamer

Episode 1.1: Encounter at Farpoint

Galactic Date: 41155
Earth Standard Date: February 26, 2364
Location: U.S.S Enterprise-D, Orbiting the Fourth Planet of the Deneb System

The creature that had once been Farpoint Station emerged from the planet's surface, reuniting with its companion as the crew of the Enterprise watched from the bridge. Counselor Troi spoke of the joy and gratitude she sensed from both creatures, her eyes misting with emotion.

The crew of the flagship of the United Federation of Planets, the USS Enterprise, had been sent to evaluate the station on its maiden voyage. The crew's investigation revealed that the station was a living creature being held against its will, and proceeded to assist in freeing the enslaved being. On the Enterprise's bridge, the ship's Captain stood steadfast against a powerful being that had placed them on trial for the cumulative crimes committed by humans.

Captain Picard turned to face Q, the omnipotent being who had orchestrated this test for humanity. "Why do you use other life forms for your amusement?" Picard asked.
Q prepared a quip back in response but was interrupted by the Captain. "Leave us. We've passed your test."

"Temper, temper, mon Cap-e-tan," Q mocked, drawing out the syllables of Picard's rank. Picard was a balding, aging man, a hint of a British accent could be heard in his voice, though the man had a French upbringing. "Get off my ship," Picard said with a tone that left no room for argument.

Q disappeared in a flash, only to reappear behind Picard. This time, he was accompanied by another burst of light, and another man appeared alongside him. The newcomer stood the same height as Q and was dressed in denim jeans and a cotton shirt. His clothes denoted him as out of place, and out of time, among the uniformed Federation Starfleet officers on the bridge.

Picard objected. "You can't just take someone from the… past and drop them on my bridge. This is not a game, Q."

Q smirked, his eyes glinting with mischief. "Oh, Picard, I assure you, this is no game. At least, not for you, but it will be for him. Consider it an opportunity for you to demonstrate your proclaimed human progress."

Picard raised his eyebrow at Q's unusual statement but refocused on the powerful entity. He clenched his jaw, visibly frustrated. "We have made significant advancements in technology, medicine, and social equality. We've colonized the stars and established peaceful relations with countless species."

Q waved dismissively. "Gadgets and gizmos. But tell me, Picard, have humans truly evolved in their hearts and minds? Are they not still driven by greed, fear, and prejudice?"

Picard paused, considering his words carefully. "While those instincts may still exist, we have learned to manage them better. Our society values cooperation, empathy, and understanding. We strive to learn from the mistakes of the past, and to foster a brighter future for all."

Q raised an eyebrow, unconvinced. "You assume that your time is inherently more advanced than his, but what if he possesses a wisdom that surpasses your own? Advancement is not solely measured by technological or scientific achievement. There are many aspects of development that you may have overlooked. And who's to say that this man didn't possess some exceptional qualities that your society has since lost?"

Picard's expression softened, acknowledging the possibility. "I suppose it's possible, but we have still come a long way. Our society values inclusiveness, and we work together to solve problems rather than letting them divide us." Picard defended humanity unwaveringly, "We continue to learn from the past and strive for a better future. But we will face these challenges together, as we always have."

Q nodded a hint of amusement in his eyes. "Indeed, you have made progress, but that doesn't mean you have nothing left to learn. The trial never ends, Picard. Humanity will always be tested and challenged to grow, to adapt, and to evolve." Q smiled enigmatically, vanishing in a shimmering light. His disembodied voice was heard by all on the bridge. "Remember that and perhaps one day you'll truly become the species you aspire to be."

With the being's departure, the newcomer was left in the ship's command center, with a score of uniformed officers staring at him. "Umm," the man said, raising one hand in greeting. "I come in peace." He plastered a wide smile on his face, but when no one spoke, he continued, "I'm Tyson. Where am I? Or, I guess from that whatever that was, maybe the better question is - When am I?" He gestured towards where Q had disappeared.

The confusion in Tyson's tone was understandable to the bridge crew, except for Deanna Troi. She sensed confusion, but it was overwhelmed by feelings of excitement, happiness, and awe.

Lieutenant Commander Data, sitting at a console to Tyson's left, responded, "You are on the bridge of the United Starship, Enterprise. The current date, based on your calendar, would be February 26, 2364."

"Well ain't that some shit," Tyson muttered.

Data's head tilted in a gesture of confusion. Tyson recognized the movement as artificial as the man who performed it. Data was not human. His skin was pale and his eyes yellow, there was something about his movements that seems slightly stilted, as if breathing and blinking were routines executed at perfectly timed intervals. After a moment to process Tyson's statement, he spoke, "Some shit. Ah, a colloquial term referring to excrement, feces, manure..."

He was interrupted by the captain. "Thank you, Data. Tyson, I'm sure this is all very overwhelming. We will do what we can to ensure you're taken care of. For now, I'd like to have one of my crew take you to get checked over and make sure you're healthy and that Q… that man who just left, did nothing to adversely affect you. Counselor, could you please escort him to sickbay. Lieutenant Worf, could you please accompany them."

Troi, the aforementioned Counselor, approached Tyson with a smile. The man from the past accepted Picard's dismissal with a nod and began following the Counselor toward the turbolift doors. Lieutenant Worf, stepped in line behind Tyson as he passed. The security officer acknowledged the Captain's caution. As part of Q's trials, they'd faced humans from before the 22nd century and knew them to be violent and unreasonable.

Inside the 24th-century equivalent of an elevator, Tyson worked to hide his budding smirk. As a fan of all things nerd culture, he knew exactly where he was and had a decent knowledge of what was to come. Troi, sensing his eagerness, decided to investigate. "You seem to be handling this well."

"There isn't much to do about it," Tyson said. "Being brought here is so far beyond possibility. I can either take what you've said at face value, get a free medical checkup along with my trip to the future... Or what? Try to fight you? If this is a starship, you have technology beyond what I can fathom. I wouldn't know where to run and I doubt I could take this guy in a fight." Tyson punctuated his last sentence by pointing at Worf. Turning his head he asks," That being said. I mean no offense, but I'm guessing you're not human?"

"tlhIngan jIH." replied the stoic officer. Tyson had no idea what the large man said. It was then he realized, he wouldn't understand anyone not speaking English. That would be a major drawback going forward.

Worf did not speak further. Tyson returned his attention to Counselor Troi, and the woman helpfully added, "Correct Tyson, Lieutenant Worf isn't human, he's a Klingon." The turbo-lift doors opened and the trio began walking down the corridor.

"The Federation has many member worlds, representing dozens of species. There are a few hundred non-human crew members on the Enterprise. After you've been checked out by the doctor, I'll provide you with information to try to get you caught up to the times."

The group passed through the double doors and stepped into a chamber lined with sleek, sophisticated beds. Tyson's eyes widened, captivated by the familiar environment that met his expectations of a futuristic starship hospital. He had visited hospitals a handful of times during his adult life, but this place was worlds apart from the sterile, clinical facilities he had known.

The beds appeared to be seamlessly integrated into the floor, their streamlined design was devoid of any visible wheels. Gone were the privacy screens and curtains he had come to expect around each bed, leaving the room open and unobstructed. Tyson marveled at the evolution of medical care, where privacy concerns seemed to have faded into obsolescence. Tyson considered that this was, after all, a starship - a military craft, no less. He had never set foot on a naval vessel or visited a military hospital, so he had no frame of reference for whether this layout was customary. Bright, ambient lighting illuminated the sickbay, casting a gentle glow over the array of advanced equipment and consoles that lined the walls. Nevertheless, the awe-inspiring nature of the sickbay captured his imagination. It hit him for the first time that Q had transported him to a realm where science and technology had transcended the boundaries of his own time.

The group was approached by a red-haired, fair-skinned woman. "Hello, Deanna, Worf, is there something I can help you with?"

Troi responded, "Hello Doctor, we have a guest. This is Tyson. He was recently brought to the Enterprise through temporal displacement. They said he was from the 20th century and the Captain wanted you to examine him."

"I'm a couple of hundred years behind on my vaccinations," Tyson joked.

"I'm Doctor Crusher, I'll make sure that you're in good health and we'll see if we can get your vaccines up to date," she replied jovially. "Please come over here and have a seat. Don't worry, there are other examples of temporally displaced peoples in the medical journals, we have established protocols to follow in these cases."

The doctor led Tyson to the nearest table. She picked up a handheld device a bit thicker than a smartphone and pulled a small thumb-sized sensor from it. Crusher ran the sensor a few inches away from Tyson as she read the information displayed on the device. "Any family history of diseases, allergies, hospitalizations?" She paused briefly before inquiring," Genetic augmentations?"

"Dad had some cardiac issues, but that was from smoking. Mom was a diabetic. Penicillin and seasonal allergies. I stayed in the hospital overnight once from a car accident. Had a concussion and a herniated disc, but no lasting complications from either. Umm. Genetic augmentation didn't exist in my time."

Crusher who had been nodding along with his explanation squinted her eyes at his last statement. "What year were you born, and your place of birth?" she asked.

"1985. New York City, United States of America"

"My history may be a bit rusty, but are you sure no genetic augmentations were being done?"

Shaking his head, Tyson responded," Nope. I remember they cloned a sheep when I was young. I think I read something about mapping the human genome when I was a kid. Later I remember something about CRISPR, not exactly sure what it was. I'm almost certain there were laws against genetically modifying humans. Oh. A lot of our food is genetically modified. GMO labeling was a big debate a few years back."

Crusher finished her evaluation and returned her tools. She said, "You seem to be in good health. As expected, you will need a few inoculations. I'm going to need you to remain here for a little while as some of the things you've said require investigation. While you wait, we'll have someone arrange living quarters for you."

She tapped the badge on her chest, "Crusher to Captain Picard."

"Go ahead, Doctor," replied the Captain.

"Could I borrow Commander Data? Some unusual results came from my evaluation of Tyson and he could help me quickly resolve some lingering questions."

"Yes, certainly. Commander Data, report to sick bay." Picard ordered.

Minutes later, the android arrived in sickbay. "Lieutenant Worf, you may return to your post. What can I do for you, doctor?"

Dr. Crusher furrowed her brow, concern etched on her face as she addressed the android officer. "Commander Data, could you quickly familiarize yourself with Earth's major world history events and formulate a series of questions? There are some inconsistencies in Tyson's history, and I want to make sure it's not a memory-related issue. Focus on the years 1950 through 2020."

Commander Data nodded, his expression as neutral as ever. "Understood, Doctor Crusher." He strode over to the console in Dr. Crusher's office, his nimble fingers tapping at the controls. The screen flickered rapidly as he absorbed information at an astonishing pace. In less than a minute, he returned to Tyson, who sat apprehensively on the bed.

"I would like to ask you a few questions, Tyson," Data began, his voice calm and steady. "We will start with major world history events and then progress towards what you would consider current events."

Tyson nodded, a mixture of curiosity and unease evident in his eyes. "Alright, go ahead."

Data proceeded, his questions concise and methodical. "Who was the President of the United States during the Cuban Missile Crisis?"

"John F. Kennedy," Tyson replied hesitantly. History had never been his best subject, but if the android's questioning stuck to major events, he could manage.

Data continued. "What was the outcome of the Vietnam War?"

"Pretty sure that's considered a loss during my time. I assume whatever outcome the United States wanted, didn't come to pass," Tyson responded less confidently.

Data was unphased by the man's answer and continued his questioning. His focus shifted to events during the Cold War. "In your timeline, during the height of the Cold War, what was the primary focus of the competition between the United States and the Soviet Union?"

Tyson thought for a moment before answering. "Nuclear proliferation, maybe? The main thing I remember was the space race, with both countries trying to outdo each other in space exploration and achievements. The Soviet Union fell before I understood politics, and it was too recent to be taught much in history class when I was in school."

Data's expression remained neutral, but a hint of surprise was evident in his voice. "Interesting. In our timeline, while the space race was certainly a major component, there was another crucial aspect: a genetics race. Both superpowers were heavily invested in researching and developing advanced genetic technologies."

Tyson added hesitantly, "If anything like that occurred, it wasn't public knowledge. I'd never read or heard about anything like that."

Dr. Crusher interjected, elaborating on Data's statement. "This pursuit of genetic enhancement ultimately led to the Eugenics Wars in our timeline, a devastating conflict involving genetically-engineered humans attempting to seize control of Earth's governments. It started in Asia and spread across the entirety of the continent, reaching Europe. It would've been during your late childhood, into your teenage years."

Tyson looked shocked. "The Eugenics Wars? We never had anything like that. Desert Storm happened when I was little, then Aghan and Iraq Wars started when I was a teenager."

Data and Dr. Crusher exchanged glances, now more certain of the divergence in their timelines. Dr. Crusher spoke up, trying to reassure Tyson. "It appears that the point of divergence between our timelines lies somewhere during the Cold War, leading to vastly different outcomes in our respective histories."

Tyson's expression remained a mix of concern and fascination. "So what does this mean for me? Can I ever return to my timeline?"

Data paused, considering the situation carefully before responding. "The prospect of returning you to your timeline is, regrettably, highly unlikely. While the United Federation of Planets has made numerous advancements in various fields, dimensional and time travel remain areas in which we have not made significant progress. Incidents such as yours are typically accidental or random occurrences."

Dr. Crusher added, her voice tinged with empathy. "It's true, Tyson. The odds of us being able to send you back to your time and reality are astronomically low. We wish there was more we could do."

The weight of Tyson's situation was settling in. He took a deep breath, trying to come to terms with the reality of his predicament. "I understand. It's a lot to take in, but I appreciate your honesty."

Dr. Crusher offered a reassuring smile. "We'll do everything we can to help you adjust to life here, Tyson. You won't be alone."

Captain Picard strode into the sickbay, his commanding presence drawing the attention of the room as he approached the biobed where Tyson sat, encircled by Troi, Data, and Crusher. "Commander Data, report."

"Captain," Data began, his voice composed and even, "I believe that Tyson did indeed come from the past, but from an alternate timeline. Analyzing his answers using standard regression analysis revealed a divergence during the Cold War era in the 20th century. Subsequently, there was no widespread advancement in genetics, no Eugenics War and key precursor events to World War 3 were missing, according to Tyson's accounting."

Picard furrowed his brow, considering the implications. "Why would Q send a man who wasn't even from this timeline? Commander, is any of the information you found relevant to the supposed trial Q mentioned?"

"Unknown, sir," Data replied.

Picard turned to Dr. Crusher. "Thoughts, Doctor?"

Crusher responded, "There are some markers that indicate exposure to diseases and vaccinations that are appropriate, but slightly inconsistent with records we have from that period. There is no medical indication that Tyson's accountings are untrue."

Troi, who had remained mostly silent during the examination, added her input. "He's being honest, Captain. I haven't sensed any deceit from Tyson."

Picard nodded, absorbing the information. The mystery surrounding Tyson's arrival and its connection to Q's trial still loomed, but one thing was clear: Tyson was an unwitting participant in a situation beyond his control.

"We'll continue our investigation and do everything in our power to help you, Tyson," Picard said resolutely. "In the meantime, we'll make sure you're well taken care of and supported as you adjust to life in this timeline."

Captain Picard raised a question that had been plaguing him, "Before Q disappeared, he mentioned that this would be a game for you. Do you know what he meant?"

Tyson was about to respond that Q was speaking metaphorically. Before he could speak, a blue box appeared in his field of view.

Welcome, Gamer.

Moments later, the box disappeared and was replaced with a new, much larger one.

You have been granted access to The Gamer System by 'Q'. This system gives you access to RPG-style powers.

"I think I might have an idea what he was talking about," Tyson said to Picard. He willed the box to close so he could focus on the Captain. He wouldn't tell the truth about the Gamer system yet, but he needed a lie that would be convincing enough to fool Counselor Tro's senses.

"In my time, there are games known as RPGs, roleplaying games. They were popularized in the 1980s as a group-based tabletop experience and progressed into video game interactions as computer technology improved. Perhaps, Q wanted me to improve my skills and embark on the proverbial Hero's Journey, as it were."

Data's eyes momentarily glazed over as he accessed his memory banks, searching for references to the Hero's Journey. After a brief moment, he spoke up, providing a succinct description. "The Hero's Journey is a narrative pattern often found in mythology, literature, and film. The journey consists of several stages, including the call to adventure, crossing the threshold into a new world, facing challenges and temptations, a transformative experience, and finally, the return home with newfound wisdom or power."

Picard considered Tyson's explanation, weighing the possibility that Q had indeed set him on a metaphorical Hero's Journey. Though it was unclear what purpose Q had in mind, one thing was certain: Q had tested Picard and placed humanity on trial. He must have left Tyson on the ship for a reason. Likely a further or future test. The Captain took a deep breath, he had enough to worry about without a conniving, powerful alien interfering. "Very well, Mr. Tyson. It seems we have little choice but to accept this new challenge that Q has presented us with. We shall support you on this journey, whatever it may entail."

Tyson looked both relieved and apprehensive, nodding his appreciation. "Thank you, Captain. I'll do my best not to let you or your crew down."

Counselor Troi offered Tyson a warm smile. "We'll be here for you, Tyson. You won't have to face this alone."

Picard nodded in agreement. "In the meantime, Tyson, we'll help you acclimate to life on the ship and prepare you for what lies ahead."

Troi stepped forward. "I can escort Tyson to his quarters and ensure he's settled in."

"Very well," Picard replied. "Commander Data and I will return to the bridge, thank you for your assistance, Doctor, Counselor."

Tyson thanked Dr. Crusher as they left sickbay, with Troi leading him to his new living quarters. Tyson silently contemplated the Gamer System as he watched the android and Captain leave.

System Feature Unlocked!
Observe - Observe is an ability used to find a target's information through continuous observation. You receive information based on your skills and knowledge of the target.

Above Picard's head appeared floating text.

Jean-Luc Picard
{Captain - USS Enterprise}
Born and raised in France, as a young man, Picard enrolled in Starfleet Academy. Excelling in his studies and quickly rising through the ranks. He displayed a keen mind for strategy and diplomacy, making him an ideal candidate for command. After graduating from Starfleet Academy, Picard embarked on a successful career in Starfleet, serving on various starships before being given command of the USS Stargazer. As Captain, Picard was known for his ability to balance compassion and pragmatism, often finding innovative solutions to complex problems. Picard's French roots shaped his unique perspective, allowing him to navigate the diverse challenges and cultures he encountered while boldly exploring the far reaches of the galaxy.

Deanna Troi led Tyson down the sleek, well-lit corridors of the ship until they reached his new quarters. The guest quarters were spacious and comfortable, designed to accommodate a variety of species and their specific needs. The living area was furnished with a plush sofa and a small table, while a large viewport provided a breathtaking view of the stars outside. The sleeping area was separated by a sliding door, with a cozy bed and an en suite bathroom, providing privacy and comfort.

As they entered the room, Troi turned to Tyson. "If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to ask. I understand that this is a lot to take in."

Tyson looked around the room, his mind racing. Everything he had seen so far reminded him of one of his favorite television shows, but he kept this realization to himself. If this reality was as he expected, he didn't want to reveal too much for Troi's empathic abilities to register.

Troi noticed his apprehension and gently encouraged him. "You can ask me anything, Tyson. I'm here to help."

Deanna Troi walked over to a recessed unit in the wall, gesturing towards it as she spoke. "This is a replicator, Tyson. It's a piece of technology that can create most things you might need, including food and clothes. All you have to do is give it a verbal command."

Tyson watched in amazement as she demonstrated the device, her voice clear and melodic as she requested a glass of water. The replicator hummed briefly, and moments later, a glass of water materialized in the chamber.

As she handed him the glass, Tyson took the opportunity to look at her closely for the first time. Deanna Troi was a striking figure. Her eyes, a deep, soulful black, seemed to hold a universe of understanding and empathy. Her thick, wavy hair cascaded past her shoulders, a rich, dark brown that framed her elegant features. Her skin was a warm, sun-kissed bronze. Tyson's gaze lingered on her lips, which were full and inviting, curved into a gentle, reassuring smile. Her slender frame was draped in the soft, flowing fabric of her uniform. It was different from the standard uniform the other officers wore, accentuating the curves of her body. As he observed her, Tyson couldn't help but feel a stirring of attraction, tempered by the knowledge that she was an empath, capable of sensing his emotions.

Deanna Troi
{Counselor - USS Enterprise}
Deanna Troi was born on the planet Betazed to a mixed-species family. Her mother was a full-blooded Betazoid, a species known for their telepathic abilities, and her father, a human Starfleet officer. Deanna inherited her mother's empathic abilities, which allowed her to sense the emotions of others. As she grew older, she learned to hone her gift, eventually deciding to pursue a career as a counselor. She enrolled in the Federation Starfleet Academy, where upon graduation, Deanna was assigned to the starship Enterprise as the ship's counselor. Her empathic abilities, combined with her extensive training in psychology and interspecies relations, allow her to provide essential support and guidance to her fellow crew members.

Tyson quickly averted his gaze, taking a sip of water to compose himself. "Thank you, Deanna. The replicator is truly amazing. I'll be sure to make use of it."

Tyson decided to probe further into the state of the United Federation of Planets. He wanted to understand how this world compared to the one he remembered, but he carefully masked his feelings with unease from being displaced, so as not to arouse suspicion.

"So, this United Federation of Planets... Can you tell me more about it? The alliances, the challenges it faces, and its goals? I'm just trying to make sense of everything."

Troi nodded, understanding his need for information. "Of course. The UFP is an interstellar alliance composed of various planets and species, working together for the shared goals of exploration, diplomacy, and scientific advancement. While we do face challenges, such as conflicts with other powers and internal disagreements between worlds, our primary focus is on promoting peace and unity throughout the galaxy."

As Deanna Troi left Tyson's quarters, he couldn't help but feel a pang of disappointment. He had enjoyed the company of the stunning counselor, but now he finally had a chance to explore the mysterious Gamer system in private.

With a deep breath, Tyson uttered the command, "Character sheet." A translucent blue interface box materialized before his eyes, displaying an array of statistics and attributes that defined him. He couldn't help but marvel at the sight, his abilities quantified and categorized as though he were a character in one of his beloved role-playing games.

Tyson
Title: (none)

Race: Human
Level: 1 (0/1000)

Energy Credits: 100

Hit Points: 80

Strength: 9
Dexterity: 8
Constitution: 8
Intelligence: 10
Wisdom: 10
Charisma: 7
Luck: 0

Status Effects: (none)

Skills: (none)

Perks:
'Out of Nowhere'

Drawbacks:
'Q and U'

"Wow, this does feel like I'm in a game," Tyson mumbled as he examined the various attributes listed on his character sheet. He noticed that if this Gamer system followed D&D rules, those attribute scores weren't exactly impressive. "Pretty low, even for a level 1."

Focusing on his Strength score, a chart appeared, showing the average lifting strength for each attribute value. 8 represented the average for an adult male, roughly the ability to lift 165 lbs. A score of 25 seemed to be the upper limit of possibility for humans.

Tyson continued mumbling to himself, a habit he picked up during his many hours of solo gaming. "Having an understanding of attribute ranges makes me feel better about this. My regular exercise places me slightly above average in strength, and my education has helped with my mental attributes. As for my charisma... well, that's below average, but no surprise there."

Looking through the character sheet revealed it was all pretty standard for an RPG until he reached the Drawbacks and Perks section.

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.

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.

Tyson's eyes were drawn to a particular section of his character sheet: Perks and Drawbacks. He noticed the "Out of Nowhere" perk and realized that it explained why everyone seemed to take him at face value. This perk allowed him to blend in seamlessly, even though he wasn't native to this reality. It occurred to him that Starfleet crews must have encountered many anomalies and abnormalities over time, making his presence more easily accepted. He felt reassured that his integration into this new world would be smoother than he'd initially feared.

His attention was then drawn to the Drawbacks section, where he discovered the "Q and U" drawback. This drawback indicated that the powerful entity, Q, might randomly appear to either help or ruin his plans. The unpredictable nature of this being was certainly concerning, and Tyson couldn't help but feel a little uneasy.

"Q and U, huh?" Tyson muttered to himself. "I guess it's not all smooth sailing."

As he continued to explore the Gamer system, Tyson was increasingly fascinated by the possibilities it offered. He would need to learn how to harness its power while also navigating the unpredictable challenges that came with it.

He resolved to make the most of his situation. Tyson decided to investigate his abilities further. He was eager to discover new skills and powers that could help him adapt to life aboard the starship. There were a few things Tyson wanted to test. The simplest involved energy credits. At first glance, he just saw Energy and assumed it was a replacement for mana. The credit portion made him think it was currency. Troi had mentioned that the Federation didn't use money. The idea of a society without currency confused Tyson. Though he understood that a society with replicators could provide for all its citizen's needs. Replicators have to run on energy though, hence the Energy Credits. To confirm his hypothesis, he approached his replicator.

"Computer. Root Beer. Cold. Most popular selection if there are multiple options. Please."

While saying please wasn't necessary, with how intelligent machines were in this century, Tyson figured it was better to be safe. The drink materialized in the replicator, accompanied by that iconic sound. Retrieving the glass, he took a sip. The root beer was passable. He'd consider it mid-range for a craft root beer. Certainly better than the high fructose corn syrup, mass-produced crap he was used to. Replicators were always presented as a less-than-perfect technology. The food they created in the show always seemed to lack something compared to real, grown food according to the characters. Tyson would have to sample a few other dishes, but first, he checked his character sheet.

Energy Credits: 98

Hypothesis proven. For the second part of his experiment, he placed the glass back into the replicator.

"Computer. Recycle the glass, please." The empty glass disappeared in a similar particle effect. Checking his sheet once again.

Energy Credits: 99

The second part of the experiment was a success as well. He could recycle items in the replicator to earn Energy Credits. This new knowledge excited Tyson, as it opened up a world of possibilities within this Gamer system. Now that he understood the basic mechanics of his Energy Credits, he could begin to explore more complex aspects of the system.

"Moving on," Tyson muttered out loud. He would try for another staple of RPGs. Magic.

Holding his arm outstretched with his palm facing forward, he exclaimed, "Mana Bolt!" Nothing happened. Not deterred by his first failure, Tyson shifted into a wider stance. He bent his knees, bringing his left hand down to his right hip, with his right hand hovering just above. Both palms face each other, fingers splayed and bent.

He focused all his efforts on the space between his hands and began chanting, "Kah."

He rotated further to his right. "May."

Eyes closed, he sensed nothing outside of his body. "Ha."

He stopped his rotation, his fingers shaking from his exertion. "May."

With as much force as he could muster, he thrust his arms across his body and shouted, "Haaaa!"

Tyson stood in the middle of the lounge, arms outstretched. His forehead was starting to glisten from forcing his entire being into his hands. Holding the pose, he was glad there was no crew around to witness his failure. He failed to recreate the famous anime attack. No energy beam rushed from his hands. He didn't even manage to create any light, glow, or anything else to indicate he'd done more than act like a child having seen and acted out their first anime. He ended his pose and sat down, feeling slightly embarrassed but also amused by his antics.

He couldn't help but chuckle at himself. "Well, that was... something," he said, shaking his head. "Maybe I need to start with something simpler."

Determined not to give up, Tyson decided to try a more basic spell. With a deep breath, he held his hand out once more, focusing intently on his palm, and whispered, "Light."

He couldn't manipulate ki or mana, and couldn't force the skill creation. Thinking of other ways he knew characters in fiction unlocked energy manipulations, he sat down. Tyson crossed his legs assuming the lotus position. He closed his eyes and tried to clear his mind, focusing only on his breathing. The following moment of clarity revealed that trying to fire a beam of ki energy inside a starship was a horrible idea.

Meditation was not a skill Tyson would say he had previously. He was mostly going off what he'd seen in pop culture. He knew there were different breathing techniques, and in lots of cultivation settings, there was a heavy emphasis on them. Unfortunately, he didn't know any. The only thing he could think of was a yoga class he took once where he was instructed to breathe and hold. So that is what he did. Breathe In. Hold for 3. Breathe Out. Hold for 3. Breathe in. and on and on. Tyson lost track of time. He didn't know how long he sat on the floor of his room. Eventually, he stopped needing to focus on breathing. The pattern became natural and his mind was left to wander. When he opened his eyes sometime later, a box was waiting for him. He was successful in unlocking a Meditation skill. To his disappointment, nothing happened, not even a flicker.

Skill Acquired!
Meditation (level 0 - Locked) - A skill to find a mentally clear, emotionally calm, and stable state. At level 1 this skill actively increases the regeneration of energy, including mana, ki, chakra, etc. Skill level cannot exceed governing attribute, Wisdom. Note: Meditation is locked at level 0 until an energy manipulation skill is acquired.

"Locked? Well, that kinda sucks." Tyson stated dejectedly. He decided to turn in for the night. "Night. Hah. I have no idea what time it is. Can't tell in this place, it's like a casino. Computer. What's the time?"

"The time is 2231 hours." replied a synthesized female voice.

"Late enough, I guess," he muttered.

Tyson walked into his bathroom, stripped, and folded his clothes. He placed them on a shelf and got into the stall. Going to the panel to turn it on, he remembered Federation crews didn't bathe in water, they used sonic showers. Shrugging, he prepared himself for a new experience.

The sonic shower used vibration to remove everything from the skin. Tyson enjoyed the new sensation. He didn't think it was as relaxing as a warm shower, but it was close. The strangest part was he could almost see the small particles being lifted from his body. The barely visible residue left from sweat and dead skin misting off him.

Not needing to dry off, Tyson stepped from the shower nude. Instead of putting on his worn clothes, he brought them to the replicator. Placing them inside, he said, "Computer. Recycle and create a new pattern."

After his clothes disappeared, he asked, "Computer. Please create the last recycled pattern, omitting any non-cotton or non-metal alloy materials." Moments later, he had a fresh, clean, shirt and jeans combo, the exact duplicates of the ones he arrived in. Who needs a laundromat when you have a replicator?

Feeling refreshed and content, Tyson dressed and prepared for bed. As he lay down, he contemplated his day and the strange new world he found himself in. "Computer. Set an alarm for 0700 hours, please."

Despite the disappointments and uncertainties, he couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement about what tomorrow might bring. With the Gamer system and the universe of possibilities before him, Tyson drifted off to sleep, eager to see what new challenges and discoveries awaited him.

You have slept in a bed. All Hit Points recovered and negative status effects were removed.

Tyson went to the replicator, recycled his sweats, and duplicated another pair of jeans and a toothbrush. After brushing his teeth, he recycled the toothbrush. He was surprised when he checked his energy credits.

Energy Credits: 199

With regular recycling of non-consumable goods, he wasted no credits. Additionally, he gained 100 credits daily. That explained how basic needs were covered.

His musings were interrupted by a chime at the door. Recognizing the sound, Tyson loudly spoke, "Come on in."

Counselor Deanna Troi entered, wearing a form-fitting purple v-cut jumpsuit uniform that accentuated her curves. Her dark, wavy hair was intricately up-styled, adorned with a tiara-like hairclip that sparkled as it caught the light. Her deep brown eyes drew Tyson in as she approached, "Good morning, Tyson. How are your accommodations?"

"Best vacation I've been on in a while. A beach and a few drinks, and I'm set," he replied, smiling.

Troi said, "I'd like to take you on a tour of the ship. We could start in the replimat for breakfast, visit a holodeck and maybe find that beach. Then engineering, shuttle bay, and anywhere else you want to see. Also, I brought you a PADD, one of our personal access display devices. It has history from 1950 to the present as well as basic information on Federation laws and ship operations."

Tyson accepted the PADD, "Thank you. Breakfast and a tour would be lovely."

After leaving Tyson's room, they went down the corridor towards the turbolift. Troi stopped at one of the wall screens and showed Tyson a schematic of the ship and basic instructions on using the screens to navigate and locate crew members. Entering the turbolift, they headed to their first stop: the replimat.