Disclaimer: This is fanfiction. Anything you recognize is not mine. All characters and events in this story are entirely fictional.
-=oOo=-
They returned to DS9 where Sela finished getting the Bajorans that wanted to run her restaurant up to speed on the few dishes she made, which consisted mostly of pointing to the video recordings she was using to figure out how to cook them traditionally and giving them contacts to her suppliers, well and asking a few others to check to make sure they were maintaining quality.
A month later, she, Laura, Diana, and Faile went to the other reality in a prototype Romulan warship. The ship was modified to allow travel between universes based on a copy of what Q gave Riker. A week later a Federation and Dominion ship followed.
The Mrdini that came to the Gamma quadrant chose to remain and work directly with the Changelings. Sarek and his wife were also remaining in their new Changeling bodies. It apparently took a great deal of effort for the others to make them for them and was considered a very high honor. A month after she entered that universe Faile wished those there well, and as there was no current issue that required her presence she boarded Gomtuu to return to DS9.
Tam was flying to the point in this universe where it made the most sense to return when they both turned to the left.
"Trouble," they both said at once.
"Gomtuu take us there. Someone needs help," said Tam.
"I'm surprised that your still by yourself with this big ship, given that there are certainly those in this universe that can shield as much as me, better even," said Faile.
"What can I say? I suppose I'm still a bit antisocial," said Tam.
"Do you know anything more than me? My feeling is pretty nebulous. I was debating reaching out more or just waiting till we got there. Your ship is very fast."
"Let's wait. We are but two, and you are the only one that has substantial kinetic ability, though my skills can boost your own if need be. I have done that for others," said Tam.
A few minutes later they arrived.
"Weather?" asked Faile in surprise.
"Extreme weather. Its tearing apart the main facilities down there," said Tam.
"Gomtuu has an incoming transmission."
"Unknown ship. This is Guildmaster Lanzecki of the Heptite Guild at Shankhill moon base. You are reminded that landing on Ballybran is forbidden by order of the Heptite Guild and the Federated Sentient Planets."
"We have no intention of landing. We are going to attempt to save lives from the storm with our skills. We probably can't save everyone, but we can save some," said Tam.
"Are you insane? You think you can fight a Mach Storm?"
"We will see, but I assure you we are not landing."
"You must not breathe air from the planet. The hazard warning for this world is very serious."
"Understood, we will not do so."
"Well, I can't stop you. Just be careful."
"Take us in Gomtuu. Get us close, do what you can yourself, and we will do the rest."
The ship seemed eager as it dove into the atmosphere even as Faile and Tam touched hands briefly, then merged mentally as one. She retained her own form and then took control of their merge.
Using Tam's link to the ship she quickly identified a half dozen shuttles that were nearly out of control. She focused on the worst one, helping it get quickly back to the base, before dividing their focus between two others and repeating it. After that they managed to get two more back, though she sensed one was deeply injured. She helped that one get inside to medical personnel. That finished the immediate items of concern but now there was the storm that was causing serious damage to the main complex. They drew deeply on Gomtuu's power and guidance as they slowly dissipated the power of the storm. Three and a half hours later it was over.
They were again contacted by Shankhill Moon Base.
"This is Lanzecki again. I spent some time talking to the FSP and better understand the situation now. Thank you Gomtuu, Tam, and crew."
"Your welcome. We are sorry we couldn't prevent more damage," said Tam.
"Is the young woman going to be okay?" asked Faile.
"That is actually a reason I'm contacting you. She needs a vacation off this world to rest and recover. Normally her profession is very profitable, but she has not had a great deal of luck lately, and while you did save her sled, it was still heavily damaged, as was her cutter."
"Your wanting to know if she could come along? I am returning Faile to her universe and returning to this one to continue my work."
"She can remain gone for up to three months, but no more, or her life will be endangered. That is the price of Ballybran. Long life, sterility, the need to leave when possible, loss of memory, and you must always return. That is all somewhat of a secret, so I would appreciate it, if you didn't spread it around. We tell them before they join. We protect them as best as we can."
"What justifies even going to this planet? Surely there are others," said Faile.
"Ballybran crystal is an essential part of a lot of Federated Sentient Planet's technology."
"Could we obtain a selection and details of its usage?" asked Faile curiously.
"That I can authorize. Can you help out Killashandra?"
"I'll be glad to take her where she wishes to go and return her as well," said Tam.
"She is healing, but she should be stable enough to leave by the morning. I'll have gathered what you want by then as well. In the meantime you are welcome to join me on the base. The air here does not contain the spores."
"Alright."
-=oOo=-
Killashandra Ree found herself the guest of Faile and Deep Space Nine. The deep gash in her leg and arm Julian helped healed the rest of the way. The broken ribs her symbiont had already healed.
The new Romulan restaurant that was ran by Bajorans was doing very well. She asked, and was allowed to sing. By the time she was onto her third song Rom's bar was emptied.
Rom walked in the next day and said loudly, "I demand to speak to the manager."
A Bajoran woman walked out. Killashandra stopped singing and playing the harp.
"Hello, I'm Ro Laren. I'm the unofficial manager here when Sela isn't around. What can I do for you?"
Jadzia was eating at a side table with the doctor. Both looked on curiously.
"I demand you stop stealing my customers!" snapped Rom.
Ro laughed. "We are thinking of expanding, that is if Sela's contacts don't mind bringing in more food. We are of course willing to pay, but are trying hard to avoid using replicated food."
Rom stalked off. Killashandra moved over to the grand piano they had transported from Bajor and started playing.
Jadzia and Julian smiled in amusement.
-=oOo=-
Quark contacted Riker.
"Why are you contacting me?" asked Will.
"I want my bar back."
"Last I checked the location was the property of Bajor. At best you have store inventory, which Rom has been restocking with his profits."
"Yes, there is no such thing as Quark's Bar. Be glad we aren't charging rent," said Kira.
"I haven't done anything wrong."
"No, you haven't done anything I can have you locked up for. Believe me, if I could, I would," said Riker.
"Rom is going to drive the Bar into the ground, then how will I retire?"
"I honestly don't care," said Riker.
"What do you want?" asked Quark.
"This call to end? You honestly have nothing I want. Your moral failings lead me to not want you on this station. It is not complicated. I'm not doing this job for profit," said Riker.
Quark grimaced then proclaimed, "I am the epitome of morals."
Kira laughed. Jadzia and Miles smirked.
"I'm disconnecting now."
"Fine, but this isn't the end of this," said Quark.
"Goodbye," said Riker.
"Well I'll say one thing for the little troll. He doesn't give up," said Kira.
"I just don't see the point. Right now there are lots of people who want those spaces. We don't need him," said Riker.
"Speaking of unwanted guests," said Kira.
"Garak?" asked Riker.
"Yes, he lays low and doesn't do anything that we have seen, but if he is simply a tailor I'll eat my shirt."
"Unfortunately, with as bad as our relations are with Cardassia, I need an actual reason to get rid of him."
"I'd rather have Quark back than him. I don't know why, but I trust him even less," said Miles.
"Bashir to Opps."
"Riker here."
"We have a problem. Garak has some thing implanted in his head. It is killing him."
"What is it you want?" asked Riker.
"I need to go to Cardassia and try to get information on whatever this is. Some kind of device to resist interrogation, apparently."
"Denied. The odds of you being killed or captured is far too high."
"He will die."
"You are welcome to request the information via subspace, or have them send a single ship here, or we can meet them at the border of our space."
"They have already refused," said Julian.
"Then I'm afraid I can't help you."
"He will die. How will that help our relationship with Cardassia?" asked Julian.
"It probably won't, but we are being reasonable here. Showing up at Cardassia either with you alone or us bringing Calliope is inviting a lot of headaches. I'm sorry doctor. If you need other resources or want to go somewhere in Federation territory that I can help with."
"I understand."
"Is that truly all we can do Will?" asked Jadzia.
"I don't like someone dying because we don't know how to fix it either. Your more than welcome to go give him a hand."
"I'll do that."
-=oOo=-
"I am telling you doctor. I am fine. Now let me go," snapped Garak.
"You are not remotely fine. That thing in your head is killing you," snapped Julian.
Jadzia walked in.
"Having fun Julian?"
"You could say that. My patient keeps trying to sneak away, even though he is in excruciating pain."
"I am fine," snapped Garak as he walked to the door before collapsing. Jadzia reluctantly caught him.
"Couldn't the healers help him?" asked Jadzia.
"I refuse to have them traipsing through my memories," said Garak.
"They aren't going to deliberately do that," said Jadzia.
"I refuse."
"Well whatever this thing is, we can at least turn it off slowly and see if he survives the removal," said Jadzia.
"It will not work. It is designed to not be removable without killing me. I knew that when I told them to put it in," snapped Garak.
"You let them put this thing in you?"
"It is the ultimate defense against interrogation," said Garak proudly.
"Its a hack job that is killing you," said Jadzia.
Faile walked in. "It seems the spy is having some difficulty."
"Get out of my head," he snapped.
"What makes you think I am in your head?"
"Because, that is what I'd do if I were you," said Garak.
"I could probably remove that thing in your head," said Faile, ignoring what he said.
"I'll forgive you not being here when I said it will kill me," snapped Garak.
"As near as I can tell your dead either way. You should let the others have a go at healing you, after that thing is removed. You might survive," said Faile.
"I said no."
"If you don't want to live, then it isn't my job to make you. Frankly, your a filthy peace of work that I won't mind seeing dead, though I will not hold that against your entire race."
Garak held his head in pain. "I'll report your actions to the Central Command."
"Feel free, though that will just put a bigger target on your neck, should you survive this," said Faile coldly.
"I think you should go," said Julian softly.
"Probably. Apologies for the disruption." She left.
"That one is dangerous," Garak snapped.
"Of that I have no doubt, but she is also an ally and we trust her far more than we do you," said Julian.
"I am a tailor."
"I'm a doctor. You have to turn that thing off and just hope to survive it. I'll treat you as best I can, since you have turned down every other option."
"I can't turn it off. It is broken. It's been running for two years straight."
"Then I'll have to use the transporters to target and disable it selectively," said Jadzia.
"Fine," snapped Garak.
"It's the best plan I have as well. I'll heal what I can as you do it," said Julian.
-=oOo=-
"Well doctor, will he live?" asked Riker.
"Yes, I believe so. He still seems angry at Faile."
"A person like that is more dangerous if your deluded enough to believe he is your friend. He most certainly is not doctor," said Riker.
"I know, but he lived. I would have bet the other way, but he has a very strong will to live."
-=oOo=-
Riker thought back to what Faile had told him telepathically, "Elim Garak was, and in many ways still is, a high level and very dangerous operative. Believe nothing he says, unless it is that he hated Dukat. Also, I recommend getting him off the station. If given orders, he could sabotage."
He had sent back, "A spy you know about can be useful."
"Be careful. He is very dangerous."
"He will want you dead."
"I will kill him if he tries anything."
"Why confirm what you did?"
"Because others cannot defend themselves as well as I can. It was, I thought, better to give him a target."
"Not for you."
"I'll be fine. I have taken precautions," sent Faile.
-=oOo=-
The doctor examined Killashandra again the next day.
"You have healed up very well, but I want you to take a look at this." He pointed her to the diagnostic screen.
"What am I looking at?"
"That is the intertwined symbiotic cells. Some of them are basically scar tissue. These are likely the oldest."
"Well, I didn't think I would live forever."
"I could target them with the transporters and slowly remove the scar tissue to provide space for the newer symbiotic cells to divide. It might help."
"Risks?"
"Minimal. We would start with a small area."
"Okay, I have no objections as long as the risks are small."
"Then I'll get started. It should only take a few minutes."
Ten minutes later they were done. "Is that all?"
"Well yes, but I wonder if you need exposure to that raw crystal for the symbiotic cells to grow. Regardless we will monitor it."
"But what you did is safe correct?" asked Killashandra.
"I removed very little. There was nothing special in what I removed, beyond it being scar tissue, which was not unique. I assure you, I checked thoroughly. The worst case is that tiny bit fails to regenerate, which again will be harmless."
"Okay."
-=oOo=-
Nothing had regenerated in Killashandra two weeks later. This is when Sela returned after getting a report of the Terrellian plague affecting Romulus.
"How can we help?" asked Riker.
"I will want as many of your doctors and those that can help as possible. The ability of your telepaths to move people without physically being there may also be helpful. You may of course bring as many ships as you wish," said Sela.
"Okay well the Doctor has gotten our new ship, the Defiant's medical usable even if he says it is not. Calliope is also ready to go. I contacted the Enterprise as well as Starfleet's medical ship the Pasteur. They will both be here in three hours," said Riker.
"We will leave as soon as they arrive," said Sela.
Killashandra arrived in sick bay a short time later. Julian explained the situation.
"You want me to go?" asked Killashandra.
"I'd like you to, but it is your choice. I'm a little concerned that never regenerated, but your resistance to disease still seems far above normal. I'm not saying we are sending you in without protective clothing. You will have the best the same as the rest of us, but you do have that extra protection. It could matter."
"Could the spores be used as a cure?"
"Maybe, but I'd rather not link anyone to that planet in another universe, or add that level of complexity. I'd not have thought of that had you not mentioned it."
"I'll be there. I presume I can bring my harp."
"Whatever fits in your room aboard Calliope is fine. I'd rather have you there. The Defiant's sick bay is a bit of a joke."
"Alright."
-=oOo=-
Doctor Bashir walked in Sela's quarters on the station after the door opened.
"Why are you here doctor?" asked Bashir.
"Killashandra, from the same universe you were in, brought up an idea. It might work. I'm not recommending it, but you should at least know about it."
"Please be concise doctor. I have a great deal to do."
"There is a planet over there called Ballybran that is generally interdicted. People can live very long lives, but only if they successful adapt to a silicon based spore that rapidly colonizes their bodies. If they do they get enhanced senses, long life, sterility, and near perfect health. They also have a dependency on the planet. The traditional occupation on the planet is a crystal cutter, where they expose themselves to the radiation given off when raw crystal is cut. This tends to cause them to get more of everything, but also a memory that begins to degrade which in time leads to unstable personalities. There are many support personnel on the world that have a partial adaptation to the spores, that are just fine."
"You think this might cure the disease?"
"I'd say the odds are decent, based on the little I know, but certainly not certain. I think I can reverse most of it. Sterility is a bit tricky, but Killashandra does still have viable eggs. I'm not really recommending this, but our medicine is way better than theirs is."
"A great many have nothing to lose doctor. How would you do this?"
"Maybe send the Defiant, or another ship? They would have to beam up air that contains the spores, or maybe they have a concentrated form. I don't know. Medical Personnel would have to come from somewhere. We can't afford to beam the disease down to the planet."
"I will get it done, at least with some. You are certain this is worth a try?" asked Sela.
"Computer medical override. Copy the files of Killashandra Ree to Sela's station."
"Completed."
"That's all I know. My opinion is yes, but you can and should get your own."
"Thank you doctor. I will."
-=oOo=-
Not five minutes after Sela finished communicating with Romulus there was another beep at her door. She sensed who it was and pulled a disruptor out of a hidden location before opening the door.
"What do you want Cardassian?" snapped Sela.
"I have information I wish I did not. It will save lives. I will give it to you if you agree to focus your rage on the actual cause."
"Explain now and I will consider it."
"My former mentor found information that the Obsidian Order has modified this version of the Terrellian plague to be particularly fatal to Romulans. They were sloppy. I have no doubt you will find out, but it will take time."
He pulled out a data crystal and set it down on her table.
"That contains the exact modifications. To the best of my knowledge it is accurate. They didn't develop a cure so I can't exactly help you there."
"You understand if this is not what you say it is, that I will kill you very very slowly, and make it as painful as possible, and if this information ends up endangering my people then I promise there will be no Cardassia when our vengeance is complete. None, I swear it."
"I know, but I hope that between you and your new allies with this you will stop at the Order."
"Get out now!" she snarled.
He quickly left, still under cover of her weapon. She holstered the weapon and sent, "Faile, please come to sick bay. I have urgent information."
She vanished under her own power.
-=oOo=-
When she arrived Faile popped in just a second later.
"Is there a problem?" asked the Doctor who was still packing.
"Garak gave me this. Says the virus was modified to kill Romulans by the Obsidian Order. Do you have an isolated machine to load this?"
"Down the hall. Follow."
All three quickly followed. Seconds after they got there Julian loaded the data crystal in the portable and began reading after the auto translation loaded.
"That's it. The development history is here. Those bastards didn't want our alliance to succeed," said Julian.
"Probably. Focus doctor," said Faile.
"I can fetch ships and go obtain the scientists that developed this," offered Faile.
"More trouble than they are worth, since you have to check everything they say against them trying to help you or hurt you. I'm scanning the crystal to make sure there is nothing unexpected in there. It looks clean. I'm uploading it," said Bashier.
Sela walked over to one of the wall panels. "Priority subspace message for Romulus medical."
"Ready to send."
"The following information was obtained and is currently believed correct. It appears to be how the virus was modified. I am attaching it to this message. The information came from Elim Garak who says it is only the Obsidian Order and not all Cardassians. I cannot prove any of what he said. He requested that our rage be focused on them. I request that our first priority be our people. Doctor Julian Bashir believes the information is correct, but his investigation has been only a few minutes. Verify everything." With a bit of help from the doctor the message was sent.
"That won't stop a war," said Julian.
"No it won't, but I will never give inaccurate information, and at the very least, if they are the ones behind it, they need to be the primary focus."
"You think Garak could be lying. What am I saying? Of course he could," said Bashir.
"Indeed. Now I have remaining preparations to make. Do you need anything further from me?" asked Sela.
"No, I have to study this. Faile, can you help finish the packing?" asked Doctor Bashir.
"I can." Sela vanished.
-=oOo=-
Five federation Starships, as well as the ship Sela was using and dozens of Romulan ships were above Romulus.
On the Enterprise's bridge Picard asked, "Data, how is your progress on studying the virus and the information this Garak provided?"
From his quarters and his computer system Data said, "Between myself and the Enterprises computer we have studied eleven point two million possible simulations for possible cures and three point four million to make sure this information isn't designed to cause further difficulty. I estimate we will be done in seventeen point four days. I can now say with a ninety point three percent assurance that the information is as presented."
"Are you any nearer a cure?'
"Fourteen possible vaccines have been sent to Doctor Crusher for synthesis. They are only tier C candidates. Possibly helpful, but only moderately, and currently the virus is mutating fast enough to make that qualification even more questionable."
"Understood. Do you need any more resources?"
"Yes, I need more computer capacity."
"I'll work on it."
"Thank you sir."
Back on the bridge Captain Picard said, "Get me someone in charge on Romulus. We need their computers, if we want to give Data the best chance."
Sela appeared on screen a minute later.
"I am told you have a request."
"Commander Data is doing a simulation that is taxing the Enterprise computers to look for a cure. I thought about tying in the remaining Federation ship computers we have here, but you must surely have something better. Right now he says it will take seventeen days."
"He will need to beam down to Romulus with a snapshot of his current work. My understanding is he would need direct access to get the performance he needs, but yes, we certainly have computers that should do what you ask."
"Why don't you contact him and your planet and go from there?" asked Picard.
The screen disconnected with no further reply.
-=oOo=-
Data wheeled the largest portable computer the Enterprise had down into the subterranean complex. This area remained sterile, since it was sealed from outside air. He looked at the racks and racks of computers for as far as his eyes could sea. Julian and Faile beamed down as well.
"There are thirty four levels. This is the computer system we used to develop certain things," said an elderly Romulan male.
"I assume this is how you solved the stability equations to safely operate artificial singularities for warp drive. That would take something of a similar size," said Data.
"I can't say."
"It does not matter. Where can I get to work?"
"This way."
They soon found a problem.
"This is a very impressive computer, but I do not know how to make it run what we need run," said Julian.
"Nor I, at least not yet," said Data.
"I am one of the primary programmers. What do you need to know?"
"Would you consent allowing me to link your and Julian's minds. This would go far faster that way," said Faile.
"It will save lives? They may kill me if I do this."
"I can't say for sure, and we will try to stop them from doing so, but probably," said Julian.
"Do it."
Between the four of them they rapidly began to adapt the programming that Data had done to run on this massive collection of computers. Three hours later it was running. The Romulan that helped them along with Julian was brought up to Calliope for Mary to heal some of the stress his mind had taken.
"Data to Enterprise."
"What can you tell me Data?" asked Picard.
"We were able to figure out how to iterate through sixteen times more possibilities. At the current rate work will be complete in twenty nine hours and four minutes."
"This will provide a cure?"
"It will likely provide many cures. The problem is how rapidly this is mutating. The cure that affects one does not the next."
"Suggestions?" asked Picard.
"We know the transporter bio filters are having problems removing this due to the amount of mutation. I am planning on linking the dataset this is creating with the central Romulan information network to attempt automatic removal."
"That is excellent Data."
"I estimate only a twenty two percent chance this will be a cure, but it should buy time. I will be uploading parts of this dataset to try to find a way to further improve on this process."
"You have unlimited resources. Ask and I'll get it," said Picard.
"I understand sir. The computers here are sufficient. The virus is the problem."
-=oOo=-
Sela looked over at Deanna. "I feel a little guilty with using you to keep my mind from losing focus."
"It is understandable right now. Data's work is at least working. The people transported are better."
"Not cured though. He didn't think they would be, and they are not."
"That can yet change."
"I hope so." Suddenly they froze.
"It's Diana with Jeff. Everyone, help," thought Deanna.
"Preliminary results are in from the symbiosis. It appears to be working. Two of the twenty seven died. We are unsure why, though incompatibility with the spores is likely. Twenty are doing better. It is too soon to know if there will be a full adaptation, or if sterility will result, or if it is reversible if it does. We have saved both eggs and sperm from all those of child bearing age. Five are in a seeming stalemate."
"Begin collecting spores, or whatever is needed to transplant this species to Romulus. I do not have authority yet to do so, but we may have to use this solution."
"We have already begun doing so. The FSP has lent us several large cargo ships. We can load them and tow one at a time, or more with more ships. There is one more thing and it is vitally important. Energy sent from telepaths like we use to pass strength from one to another revitalizes this silicon based lifeform. I was in a full bio suit, but even so it clearly worked. We are using this now to accelerate the process without having to be on Ballybran," trailed off the Diana merge.
Hope suddenly surged in Sela. "Computer, where is Killashandra Ree?"
"Killashandra Ree is on Romulus."
"We still need to verify this with her," said Deanna.
"Computer connect me to Killashandra Ree."
"This is Killashandra."
"Can you return to my ship? It seems that energy transferred from a telepath can strengthen your symbiont."
"I have no need, I don't think."
"We need to confirm the process."
"I understand. They said that it would be a nearly hour long procedure to come back aboard to be sure nothing is transferred. I have a very good bio suit, but they are taking no chances."
"Do it. If they can confirm what I said there then you can do that. If not, come here."
"Understood."
Seventy minutes later they knew it worked.
-=oOo=-
"Computer connect me to the assembly."
"We are online, though most of us are those that were on ships prior to this starting. We have only lost ten percent so far, but even with all the help the forecast is bleak."
"I have a possible solution, but it is not without difficulty and it is potentially dangerous. I am sending over current information, but in essence the long shot we did with sending the ship to the other universe is paying off. The biggest variables are providing enough energy to heal our people and making sure we can have children afterward. The energy so far seems to need to come from crystals cut in that other universe or, and, this is key, from telepaths. I could probably help a a couple dozen, but I've become fairly strong. After that I'd probably need a day of rest or more."
"There are not enough of you, not even with all of them."
"We could also get help from the other universe. I'm not saying it is a perfect solution, but I urge you to authorize a ship to bring back some of what we may need. A cargo ship will have to be towed, or we will have to transfer what is onboard it. Many cargo ships will likely be needed. At least get it here so we have the option."
"Agreed. You have authority to get this much started."
-=oOo=-
Back on the Enterprise bridge Q appeared.
"Can you help this mess Q?"
"Actually no. I've been forbidden to help on this one. The Cardassians didn't actually intend to make the virus this hard to cure. They also screwed up."
"It's on Cardassia too then?" asked Picard.
"Yes, though with them it doesn't mutate as much. Differences in how their bodies are put together and all. It is still going to devastate them, but they will survive, well most of them will anyway."
"Bajor?"
"Should be safe."
"Humans?"
"Not, though not to the degree of the Romulans or the Vulcans, if they get it. Most other races will be immune."
"And this plan to bring the spores?"
"Surprised even the Q. It is hard to accurately predict that one long term and I've been forbidden to look into alternative time. It seems this is the test you get in exchange for all my help. If I want to be able to help in the future, you must pass this one yourselves."
Q vanished.
"This is most troubling. Send a copy of this encounter to all ships."
-=oOo=-
"Jadzia, tell me you have good news," said Riker.
"The work Julian and the others did is continuing to improve. They are attempting to use transporters they have to move the likely cured to one island to start. They are first clearing an island of everyone. The plan is to separate them and keep trying to make the island virus free."
"That's not really good news."
"No, but it may work."
"We need to find a planet, but I assume they already are," said Riker.
"The Romulan colonies have already been locked down, as best they can. Given that the Cardassians are also facing this mess, they likely don't have time to cause trouble."
"See if you can connect me to the Enterprise."
"You are online."
"What can I do for you Commander Riker?" asked Picard.
"I'm still not Captain. Pity."
"It's a technically. Your post is DS9. What can I do for you?"
"I'm suggesting we offer to help secure some of the Romulan colonies, at least if they are willing. We need to make sure they stay free of this thing. We also need to better secure all our own, until we get a better handle on this."
"I've been talking to Ambassador Spock on Vulcan. They are putting a lot of resources into securing their own worlds but have volunteered to do what they can."
"Given they are essentially the same genetically... What a mess."
"They aren't sure if the slight divergence in their genetics is enough to matter or which way it will go if it does. They do have a request though. They want to send a small group of Vulcans to Ballybran." said Picard.
"Perhaps a small number of non infected Romulans can go as well. It might give very valuable information," said Riker.
"I'll suggest it and offer what aid we can. Since this can affect us too we need to take our own precautions."
"Understood."
-=oOo=-
Sela considered the latest idea. As much as she was willing to take risks, she wanted to be able to have children, and preferably Romulan children, though telepath children were also still a priority. Unfortunately, she had not found a telepath in the other universe she wanted to have children with. She had considered approaching Diana and her intended to have an honest conversation about a genetic material donation, but got called back here.
She contacted the other ships and arranged for half a dozen Romulans to volunteer and one of their best doctors, though she was also one of the oldest. If she survived the process, she was very well suited to study it. She also wasn't a virologist which made her not necessary for the current task. She would leave it up to her to lead the team. It might make sense for her to stay off the planet initially, or maybe the whole time. That would be their choice. They would have one of their cargo ships here in the next few days.
The work Data, Faile, and Julian and that Romulan engineer she couldn't remember the name of had done and were still doing was buying them time. Of course, it was also going to burn out their transporters. Fortunately, they could keep up with the burn rate with their automated production. Data had further refined the program for Federation transporters with about two percent more accuracy. The subspace bandwidth they were using was not unlimited, so they just slotted the Federation transporters in wherever they could. None of them materialized on a ship, so there was no danger.
Data and Geordi were working on a new design using a mix of Romulan, Vulcan, and Federation transporter tech to further refine it. Faile was helping too and had secured a copy of the technology from the Dominion that again did the same thing. When they were done they were all going to have the best transporters possible, and in this the tech was far better than the teleportation. The tech could pick and choose what was transported on a very fine scale.
It all was buying time. Hopefully, it would be enough. She did find out that the Central Command had exterminated the Obsidian Order. She still would not bet they were behind it. Garak may have been told they were, but Cardassians lied a very great deal. Finding the actual truth was still a task that remained. The only bit she was fairly certain was true were Q's words, and he had not actually said. Pity.
They needed to get the biofilters up to 100%. Absolute and total removal. That or the spores, so far, were the only feasible plans. They were generating valid antivirals as quick as possible, but they had to be tailored to the virus in a persons body and there were usually multiple versions in a body and the antivirals would make the dang thing mutate when it wasn't a perfect match. With multiple versions in a body it never was a perfect match.
-=oOo=-
KIllashandra Ree returned to Ballybran with twenty Vulcan's, all on the older side save four younger that had already had children, but were willing to try again if this worked out. She also had seven Romulans with her. All were older. They were not willing to risk anyone who could bear children to her home and she certainly couldn't blame them.
The Vulcan ship was going to remain in orbit. The Romulan doctor was going to remain on the ship in a sealed sick bay. People would be beamed up for examination periodically. This ship wasn't dealing with the virus. They were only dealing with the opportunistic symbiotic lifeform. Several of them were given energy by Diana to accelerate the adaptation.
-=oOo=-
Sela paced back and forth in her equivalent to a ready room on her ship.
Data and the other engineers finished the new transporter design, or at least as finished as they were going to get anytime soon. It was better. They were up to removing almost seventy percent of the viral particles, but they still missed some. The thing changed too fast and it took very little to go back to infecting cells. Their use of the mutagenic sequences that cells could somehow recreate was genius and insane. You could somewhat predict the likely mutations in a single person. Multiply that by seven billion people, even if a small minority had avoided infection and the variations were uncountable.
Q appeared next to her.
"Was it the Obsidian Order?"
"It was."
"And you can't help, beyond presumably that semi useless tidbit."
"No, or at least I can't do more than give you my own advice and it is not based on knowing the best choice. In this I can be wrong. I have screwed up enough times. Entire sentient species have been killed due to my mistakes."
"Say what you have to say."
"Right now you are transporting every one about once a week. That is about the limits possible with subspace so saturated and so many. Make a concerted effort to move people to other planets with all that details and you can probably multiply that by a small number, eventually."
"Transports are not completely safe. Hundreds sure or maybe thousands over a lifetime, but in time that will kill my people just as sure as anything, unless we can actually make the bio filter perfect, which can't be done here. It would slow down the process too much assuming a perfect one is possible. Some can no doubt be moved to a new worlds, where the fewer people would allow the possibility of complete cures via extended runs of the bio filters, which is dangerous too, but seems feasible, though again we need to find worlds we won't contaminate.
"A fraction of a fraction, even with Rowan and the others help," said Q.
"Still, likely worth doing. I think the spores are our best bet. Computer, has anyone figured out a way to accelerate spore growth without Ballybran crystal or energy from telepaths?"
"A Lal on the Vulcan Homeworld has a pending communication on the subject. It was not marked high priority, and as such you were not disturbed."
"Connect me now."
"Commander Sela," greeted Lal.
"What can you tell me about accelerating this spore growth without these crystals or a lot more telepaths than we have?"
"I theorize that satellites powered by your artificial singularity technology could be used to excite Ballybran crystal matrices and possibly produce the needed energy. Unfortunately, I missed the last ship heading that way. I am working on securing another. You have samples, do you not?"
"I believe they are on DS9, though if needed I can get more. I'll get you here. When do you think you might have usable results?"
"We would need to infect someone deliberately and then try different combinations."
"We have plenty of volunteers. I'll get you that ride. Sela out."
"Connect me to the Enterprise and Calliope."
"You are online."
"Captain Picard and Commander Riker. Lal suggests that using our artificial singularity technology with Ballybran crystal might provide the needed energy. I want her with whatever she needs and the crystals I assume are at DS9. Can you get that going and here?"
"We will take care of it," said Picard.
"Thank you. Sela out."
-=oOo=-
"Get me the Vulcan high command," said Picard.
"They are going to reluctant to send ships when it is vital they prevent infection on Vulcan," said Riker.
"I know."
"Online now," said the ensign.
"How can I help you Captain Picard?"
"On your world is a young woman named Lal who may have an answer to implementing the symbiosis plan on Romulus. I need to get her, pick up some things from DS9 and get out here. Do you have ships remaining available?"
"We do have a few fast courier ships that are not allocated to the planetary blockades, but if you believe she is of such value, then that may not be appropriate."
"No, I'm not taking any chances with someone using the situation. Set course for Vulcan and engage at Warp 9."
"Then we will see you when you get there. In the meantime we will speak with her and see if there is any further way we can help."
"Agreed."
-=oOo=-
Back on Ballybran the senior Heptite Guild chief medical officer Antona had been beamed aboard the Vulcan ship to consult with the senior Romulan healer Jarok. Diana and Jeff were also there.
"It is amazing how Diana's gift accelerates and seems to smooth the process," said Antona.
"Yes, it is quite remarkable. The real problem is to save their strength somehow for the worst cases but still have this work like on this planet..."
Diana and Jeff got very still.
"Lal has found a possible plan," said Diana.
"They say they are going to try to excite likely a mix of Ballybran crystal with energy from one of their artificial singularity reactors," finished Jeff.
"Intriguing," noted a nearby Vulcan.
"We need one of our ships here and to test ourselves," said Jarok.
The Vulcan nodded.
"Shall we request a suitable ship be sent?" asked Diana.
"Please do," added Jarok.
Jeff and Diana focused for several minutes.
"There is serious concern about bringing an active artificial singularity reactor through the window between dimensions. They are going to prepare a test reactor, but it will not be activated until after it gets through the portal, and will need to remain here until it is extinguished. We didn't understand all of that, but that is what they said," added Jeff.
"It means they have a plan, but it will take a little longer," said Jarok.
"In the meantime I will review all the known properties about these interesting crystals," said the Vulcan.
Jarok nodded.
-=oOo=-
"Captain's log. I am proceeding at high warp direct to Deep Space Nine where we will pick up the test crystals from Ballybran before proceeding onto Romulus. We have in our cargo bay considerable Vulcan scientific equipment as well as eight of their leading scientists. Data's daughter Lal has also come aboard. Half of the equipment and scientists will remain near Romulus to begin development there of the solution they hope will save them."
"During the journey the crew has been working feverishly to make the changes that other ships have already made to allow Enterprise to make the transition to the other universe. We, after all, are best equipped for this scientific mission."
"Commander Sela also volunteered her prototype ship which has already been modified. It, unfortunately, lacks the science and engineering ability that is possible on Enterprise. We are the flagship of the Federation for a reason, and that reason is soon to be put to the test. I have every faith in my crew to be up to this task."
-=oOo=-
Killashandra Ree came aboard the Enterprise when they stopped off at Romulus to unload. They were now making their way to Ballybran. Worf was in command on the bridge while the rest of the command staff, Killashandra, and Lal were in the meeting room.
"Killashandra you are the only one who has been exposed to energy from these crystals repeatedly. Do you have any ideas on where we should start?" asked Picard.
"Black are incredibly rare. I have a unique sensitivity to them. They are not actually black, except when in use. They can create instantaneous communications links. I still remember the crystal shock when I linked my first set. It connected three systems together. I was suddenly several places at once. The crystals sang through me. It was.. It was an experience I both deeply treasure and hope to never experience again. Most of the middle colors are used for drives or even medical equipment. White is my guess. It can be used for sense organs, which bombard the senses on every level, including, in the extreme planting imagery directly into minds. I never fully understood how that works, but I know it does. If there is one common crystal that will penetrate living tissue easily, I'd bet on white."
"Assuming your guess is correct, is there likely to be a large quantity of it available for our use?" asked Lal.
"No. There is never enough singers. We can't keep up with the demand. Unless there is an order that just got filled that can be diverted I assume we will have to go find them."
"We need this urgently. Is there no where we can obtain the crystal now, perhaps from existing installations?" asked Data.
"Optheria is a guess. They have four grand crystal organs. Those organs use a very great deal of white crystal. They are reported to be hostile to strangers. If you need that much it is likely months of effort, even with multiple singers going out. If they remember where some it is easier of course."
"We can likely find what you need with sensors," said Data.
"It will still take me and others at least a week to cut it, and even then, after that much cutting I will probably be half rational. The others that have been singing longer will be more affected. There is a reason we seek to leave Ballybran as often as we can. Cutting crystal is the worst addiction in the universe. We need it to live, but it also erases who we are. Honestly, if working with your telepaths replaces the need, I may not return after this is over. I don't want to lose my mind and be like so many others."
"How can you be protected?" asked Picard.
"Beam me up if I get caught in the thrall, or at least block the sun warming the raw crystal in my hand. You can be frozen in thrall for hours. Don't assume I will be rational while cutting. The infrasonic cutter will sever limbs in a fraction of a second. Assume I am armed, dangerous, and unstable, and take suitable precautions. Double that for an older singer."
"I highly recommend we do both. We need to make a lot of satellites to effectively blanket the planet," said Lal.
"Agreed. We will drop you off and get the other Federation ship to help you. In the meantime we will approach the Optherians," said Picard.
"You will need an experienced crystal tuner at minimum to remove and store the crystals. I could do it, but I can obviously only be one place at a time, and after I cut crystal, I likely won't be fit to do such a delicate job for at least a week."
"We will get a recommendation from your guild while we are there," said Picard.
-=oOo=-
Guildmaster Lanzecki listened to their needs.
"My assistant Trag can remove the crystals, if you can get them to let you have them. They are very expensive, particularly in matched sets. The FSP has agreed to pay all related costs because of all your aid, but it might be a year or more before we manage to replace them all."
"We may be able to locate what you need, both for now and later," said Picard.
"That is appreciated. I'll give out the claims based on who I think can likely bring what we need in quickly, but a week is still optimistic, even if you can bring locations. We will, however, try."
-=oOo=-
Diana agreed to remain on Shakhill moon base. She could keep a light mental touch on the singers that were possibly risking their sanity to get what they needed. She touched Killashandra's mind as she flew her shuttle out to the ranges.
"Hello there," she sent softly.
"Is that you?" thought back Killashandra.
"Yes, I just wanted to get in contact before you started cutting. I will be with you during it if you wish."
"I'm not sure that is wise."
"I'm a big girl. I can choose the risks I take."
"Well, if you can keep me focused it will help."
"Is it really so bad?"
"You tell me. Is it hard for you to be so far away and do this?"
"It is more difficult than if I was there, but I'd rather not risk the planet."
"Believe me, I understand. I am nearly a hundred years old, but I can barely remember life back on Fuerte, and part of that is because I regularly review my past. Even so a lot has been lost. This is nice. Not so alone."
"I'm glad I can help. Would you like me to possibly accelerate your trip a little. I have a very powerful reactor next to me I can tap into to make your ship go far faster?"
"Sure, but stop if I tell you."
"Doing so now. I am linking enough with you to make sure we go where you want."
"Got it."
"Whee. Faster!"
"Your wish is my command. I need to stay under the speed of sound, to be safe, but you will have up to that."
"Good, we will be there in another fifteen minutes at this pace."
-=oOo=-
Diana mentally braced herself as Killashandra sang a high A and tuned her infrasonic cutter and began to cut. Even bracing herself, she barely withstood the storm of emotions that shot through her. Killashandra was quick and practiced. She quickly excised a perfect segment nearly a foot in height. She then lifted it up. That was a mistake. The sun shown on it.
"Pack, the pair found themselves thinking."
"Must see it."
"Pack. We must pack."
"Must see it. It calls me." Killashandra held it a little higher. Diana considered enforcing the thought to pack but her curiosity stopped her and suddenly she was swarmed with feelings that made Jeff feel a distant second.
"Oh my. Must stop. Too much. Pack Killashandra Ree. Pack now. Pack now!" she practically yelled mentally.
KIlla broke the thrall and quickly secured the crystal in its plasform web.
"Thanks. It's worse after being away so long."
"Do you know what that was doing?" asked Diana worriedly.
"It's crystal thrall. It's hardly new."
"It was overloading your mind. Even with the healing of your symbiosis, you were doing damage to yourself. Sure maybe it helped as well, but that is dangerous. There are techniques we can teach. It won't be enough. Not against that, but they do help."
"Glad to know it. Now I need to stay at work. Think you can keep me from losing myself?"
"Hold a minute. We need more help. I can't protect more than one, not from that."
"Alright."
Diana pushed Killashandra gently to the side, but kept her part of the link as she drew heavily on the ship's reactors.
"Redinger. Hear me."
"I hear you, you spawn of trouble."
"No nickname for me yet better than that?"
"I've been busy. What do you need?" he asked irritably, though also with a touch of fondness.
Diana sent the memory of what she just experienced.
"That planet may get an upgraded danger classification if I have anything to do with it. How can they function after that on a regular basis?"
"No idea, but it explains the problems."
"Yes it does. Can you catch if I get you half a dozen T-2's to help?"
"Yes."
"This is going to take some doing. I'll get in contact with you when I have it organized."
"If my mind is closed off, then I'll be protecting Killashandra. You will have to wait till I can focus."
"Understood."
"I assume someone is paying for this, since this is danger pay," said Redinger.
"Should be FSP, though the others will no doubt find a way to pay back, if need be. I don't require pay."
"Your getting it anyway. Your doing a job, and your soon to be husband if my senses are correct could use the money for that mud ball of his."
"Good point. Send it to my account there then."
"Agreed."
They got back to work. Diana made sure Killashandra packed after each cut, without delay. At the end of the day, she made sure Killashandra beamed up. The last thing she needed was the reaction that apparently occurred at dawn when the sun first touched crystal.
-=oOo=-
Captain Picard was seriously annoyed. Worf looked worse, like he was about ready to use his phaser on the ruling council of this world.
"I'm sorry, but the Sense Organ's are absolutely vital to the upcoming summer festival. We cannot possibly allow you to dismantle them, no matter what remuneration is offered."
Suddenly an arrow was shot from a great distance, nailing Picard in the leg.
Worf looked for an assailant to return fire, but none was visible.
"Worf. Find who did this. Someone beam me to sick bay."
Picard vanished.
After they left the leaders said, "We assure you that we will find the culprits. There is no need to trouble yourself."
"I have a direct order. I will obey it." He glared at them and they backed off. He then touched his com badge. "Enterprise, I want available security personnel to beam down. We are going to find out who shot the captain and why."
The leaders gulped but then the only woman among the group of three elders said, "I assure you. The culprit will be punished."
"The culprit will face Federation justice first, and then we will see," said Worf, apparently happy to have found a way to annoy them.
-=oOo=-
"Well doctor, will I live?" said Picard in annoyance.
"Yes, and I can of course heal this damage. What I do not understand is why this arrow," said Beverly.
Doctor Selar picked it up. "This is a practice arrow. Perhaps it was all that was available, or perhaps there was no serious attempt to kill you. I'm going to go down and try to use my abilities to help in the search."
"Please do Doctor. There is a reason they won't let us disable their fancy toy, and there is a reason someone really didn't want to chance us just leaving. Please find out for us."
"I shall do my best."
-=oOo=-
Doctor Selar walked to the Guild Master's second in command Trag. She asked, "What do you think of all this?"
"I agree something is badly amiss. Those sense organs are wildly popular, but not enough to make them just ignore the offer we made. That had to be five times what they make in a year at the festival. If you weren't with me I'd be contacting the FSP and demanding a warrant. I have wide latitude, but not wide enough if there is planetary conspiracy."
"If so we shall find it. This way I think. I will not read minds without permission, but even just passively, someone is very worried, and it seems they are playing one of the organs in question."
They walked into the practice room with the smaller organ and saw a rather nervous look on a dirty blond haired young man as he practiced.
"Excuse me," started Trag.
"Can I help you?" asked the organist.
"Yes. You can tell me why someone would shoot an arrow at a stranger?" asked Trag.
"No idea. Everyone on Optheria is so happy."
"You are lying," said the doctor.
"I don't know what your talking about."
"Still lying. I may not be actively reading you, because I can't ethically do so, but just passively I can tell you are lying. Tell us. We can protect you," said Doctor Selar.
"Agreed. Either they or the FSP can protect you if you honestly give evidence," said Trag.
Worf walked in. The blond flinched back.
"Lieutenant Worf. This citizen was about to tell us what he knows," said Dr. Selar.
"Good," said Worf with a smile.
"I'll tell you what you want to know, alright. I didn't want to do it, but I was afraid you would leave."
"We are not leaving," said Worf gruffly.
"I'm from the Island. We don't go to the festivals, but we stumbled onto the truth. Somehow the organs are linked to subliminal programming. That is why I'm here, to find them, somehow. They are the reason no one in the mainland wants to leave and everyone always loves the Optherian way of life."
"That is a very serious allegation, that if true will see a revision force come to Optheria. Subliminal programming is absolutely prohibited by the FSP charter," said Trag.
"And the Vulcan as well as the Federation," added the doctor.
Worf tapped his com badge. "Worf to Enterprise."
"What can you tell me Lieutenant?" asked Picard.
"There has been a credible allegation that the Optherian sense organs are linked to mind manipulation. I suggest securing and searching."
"Does the doctor concur?" asked Picard.
"I agree with the Lieutenant. Without actively reading the mind of the suspect before me, I cannot confirm it, but I believe this is plausible explanation," said the doctor.
"Then do it," said Lars.
"Are you sure?" asked the doctor.
"A lot of people I care about are in fear of their lives. Do what you have to do."
She touched him on the face and said, "My mind to your mind." She carefully adjusted her pressure and finished with, "Our thoughts are as one." With her new skills it was quite easy and with his help she reviewed all the relevant information in a matter of minutes, including that he fired the arrow.
When she let go and separated she said, "Captain, the information is confirmed, but not the location of the equipment. The organs are a best guess. He also fired the arrow, though I see no purpose in prosecuting him."
"I could use that to get him and a few others off the planet," said Trag.
"That is not necessary. We will relocate him if need be. For now search for and find the technology. As soon as you do I will contact the FSP for permission to take what we need for now," said Picard.
A little over an hour later the one hundred odd security agents found the subliminal processors. The FSP was sending their own agents on one of their fastest ships. The Enterprise got permission to take the crystals. Trag worked quickly to remove and pack each crystal. Geordi soon learned enough to start on another organ. They managed to finish the first two organs late that day and the next largest four the next day. Worf remained behind with a couple of shuttle craft to keep the government secure until the FSP could take direct control. The population was not going to miss their yearly dose of mind control.
-=oOo=-
By the time they got back to Ballybran the crystals Killashandra had cut was already being used with the one artificial singularity reactor they had. It took another two days of revisions to perfect the design. Killashandra remained behind with Diana and the other telepaths to continue to gather more. By the time they got back to their universe, they had a half dozen complete satellites and some that needed rework, though all would need new reactors. They also had enough crystals for another hundred. It wouldn't be enough, but they would return once they dropped off what they had.
-=oOo=-
"Report," snapped Sela to her science officer. She then added, "I apologize." Deanna was on the other side of the room. She felt calmness settle on her as Deanna again lightly merged with her.
"Don't worry about it. The first six satellites are online and emitting the characteristic radiation directly into the area at the edge of our largest desert, which seems the optimal location for the spores to thrive. The other four the Enterprise started on before they had the design complete will be finished within two hours and deployed shortly after. An assembly line to create the hundreds that we ideally need will be completed by tomorrow evening. In the meantime all of our ships are building them much like the Enterprise. We predict we will run out of crystal within six hours. Enterprise is going back to get more. They are considering a more automated process, but did not want to risk what works, unless necessary. Either way, the rate they are providing crystal does not look like it will be the limiting factor."
"The singularity cores. We have never needed so many," said Sela.
"Correct. This is not an efficient process, but the resonance pattern of the singularity cores does match up really well with what we need and we have no time to develop something better."
"What can we do to increase the pace?"
"We plan on modifying our existing ships to be able to install the emitters. They will remain around Romulus until we have an alternative, but it should work, and allow us to finish."
"The people?"
"We are setting up tents in the desert and at other planned locations. The process is being accelerated as much as possible."
"And our children?"
"Genetic materials are being saved as quickly as possible. We also believe we can reverse the symbiosis, but that has not been tested."
"Is there any further improvement on the bio filters?"
"Eighty five percent has been achieved on the tests on other worlds when more time is available. That is an average. A small percentage have been cured."
"How long until our people are no longer dying?" asked Sela.
"The current prediction is at nearly one hundred days."
"And we can't even kill the people who did this. What news of the Cardassian population?"
"They aren't getting help. The best predictions are they will lose almost a third of the of their population. Their problems are much less, but we expect twenty five percent causalities with them being without help. We cautiously hope for less than one in six."
"Except they will be able to have children far easier," she said bitterly.
"No, they won't."
"What?" she exclaimed.
"Most of the Cardassians infected, even if they recover, are sterile."
"I can tell Deanna dislikes the mild joy I feel at their pain. No matter. What has not been done?"
"We believe all plans are proceeding as best as possible. May I speak freely Commander."
"You may."
"You have done an excellent job, but you need to try to rest some. I don't need to tell you why."
"I know. Fortunately, I can now force myself to rest. You will wake me the moment something is delayed you need?"
"I will, I promise."
-=oOo=-
Rowan popped in just as they reached her bedroom. Deanna was already there. It was only the three of them.
"Hey," said Rowan.
"Are you disgusted with me?" asked Sela.
"No, certainly not," said Deanna.
"If you really wish a child, we can perhaps help," said Rowan.
"I'm reasonably sure it doesn't work that way, not even in the Federation, though I suppose our doctors might manage it."
"We are serious," said Deanna.
"What is the price for this gift?"
"The Cardassians have paid enough, or soon will. If they do more against you, then you do what you have to, but the price is you live for your daughter. You put your daughter's life first," said Rowan.
"Well I have one more thing I'd like. Tasha has a sister. She is or was a bit of a criminal. Meet her once. That's all," said Deanna.
"I don't have to establish some long time relationship with my mother's side of the family then?"
"There is only Ishara. There is no one else," said Deanna softly.
"Deal. I'll make an attempt but I'll not be used. I assume you will want to help raise her as well."
"Of course, though the primary responsibility will be yours. Should you die for any reason, your government should give us the option of raising her," said Rowan.
"Also deal. Now how does this work?"
The Rowan smirked and said, "Did you mention having a bedroom?"
"Oh, so there is that component to this."
"Well you don't have to, but if you want our child, it might help if you didn't mind our company," said Deanna dryly.
"Can you make me forget, for a little while? Duty will be here soon enough."
"That we can," said Rowan.
-=oOo=-
Her bed was empty the next morning. She pulled the covers over herself as Q flashed into place.
"Do you not respect privacy at all?"
"Who do you think helped out with the little things? Yes, you have their child just now growing in your womb. I wanted to be sure you knew."
"I can hardly believe it. Will we find a way to reverse the symbiosis, or at least have children?"
"Probably. Implantation in the traditional way would not work, but you can get around that. You will have to raise the children outside of the influence of the spores, and that includes shortly after conception. The devices you created can still be used to keep the others from weakening. I think all that is correct, but I'm still restricted, so check it. Most likely Romulus will eventually cease to be your primary world, but with effort, the people will live."
"What about when we are older?"
"The spores don't really make your reproductive systems last any longer. If anything, they shorten it, on both male and female, but probably no more than five years or so. As I said, you can make it work, but it won't be easy."
"So Killashandra?"
"Is already fully sterile and even with help there is no normal chance of her having children. She does some potentially viable eggs, at least with a bit of help, but her body is currently not capable of giving birth. There are things that can be done but you already know that."
"Have we contained this?"
"I hope so, but I suggest you keep making those cores. Again, I can't help you on this."
"We do appreciate the help you have given."
He nodded and vanished. She gently laid her hands on her stomach and smiled.
-=oOo=-
Lars Dahl was aboard the Enterprise. Officially he was there to make sure the old government on Optheria didn't decide to eliminate him. Unofficially, he was curious.
He was in Ten Forward when Diana focused and Killashandra appeared in front of her.
"Your beautiful," he said without thinking.
Killashandra glared at him. "I'm fresh in off the ranges. I have enough crystal resonance that it must be painful to be near me and I want a radiant fluid bath, not that they have such things up here."
"Pardon, I'm Lars Dahl. I'm from Optheria."
"You were the one that shot Picard," exclaimed Killashandra in surprise.
Half the people on ten forward glared at him. Guinan spoke.
"He deliberately aimed at his leg. He was desperate to get help to stop their efforts at mind control and the Captain has already forgiven him."
"Thanks," said Lars.
"Don't mention it. People love Picard. Best you just admit it and they know the circumstances," said Guinan.
"Maybe."
'Did you want to join us?" asked Diana.
"I would love to ladies."
"Don't try your charm on me. Jeff is better, and I'm not buying," said Diana.
"Well, can I get the lovely enchantress to your left anything?"
Killashandra rolled her eyes. "I have been up here before you know."
"I'll tell you what. I've actually just finished eating. I could go and try to talk to Shankhill and try to procure that bath you asked for. Would that help?" asked Lars.
"If you can get me an actual radiant fluid bath, then I will treat you to dinner tomorrow."
"Deal." He skipped away, with various of the occupants looking at him with an amused expression. A man trying to impress a girl was universally understood.
"So, are you interested?" asked Diana.
"He is quite handsome, but we will see."
-=oOo=-
Lars Dahl was quickly redirected to Antona, the head of the Ballybran hospital.
"Killashandra wants a radiant fluid bath and I am but her humble servant."
"Sure you are. I can spare a tank and all the rest. Can you get hold of one of their engineers?"
"I shall do so now."
"Get going scamp, and you hurt Killashandra we hurt you. Got it?"
Lars swallowed. "Got it."
The connection lapsed. He then contacted Guinan as one of the few people he knew that didn't glare at him.
"What can I do for you Lars?"
"Ballybran is willing to give us what we need for Killashandra. I was asked to check with one of your engineers."
"Contact Wesley Crusher. He can do what you need without disturbing any of the others."
"Thanks."
"Wesley here. Who are you?"
"I'm the one that was picked up on Optheria."
"You were the one that shot the captain."
"I have said I'm sorry many times and I truly am."
"I know. What can I do for you?"
"Killashandra desperately wished for something called a radiant fluid bath. Ballybran is willing to give us one. We just need to coordinate with Antona, and, well, find a place to install it. It is, I gather, supposed to have healing properties."
"Interesting. Do you know your way to sick bay?"
"Honestly no."
"Then wait where you are. I'll come get you. If this is potentially useful in healing, I want to coordinate with the doctors."
"Understood and thanks. I'll owe you one."