Path: tivoli.tivoli.com!geraldo.cc.utexas.edu!cs.utexas.edu!howland.reston.ans.net!news-e1a.megaweb.com!newstf01.news.aol.com!newsbf02.news.aol.com!not-for-mail From: mabtng@aol.com (MABTNG) Newsgroups: alt.startrek.creative Subject: NEW TNG STORY: Great Minds...(1-4) Date: 13 May 1995 08:46:10 -0400 Organization: America Online, Inc. (1-800-827-6364) Lines: 412 Sender: root@newsbf02.news.aol.com Message-ID: <3p29mi$h61@newsbf02.news.aol.com> Reply-To: mabtng@aol.com (MABTNG) NNTP-Posting-Host: newsbf02.mail.aol.com Xref: tivoli.tivoli.com alt.startrek.creative:10314 Here's a new adventure for Picard/Crusher fans. Actually, it's a sequel to the story "A Mind of Her Own"...if you haven't read "A Mind" and can't find it in this newsgroup, let me know and I'll send it to you. I welcome all constructive criticism....Hope you enjoy! DISCLAIMER: PARAMOUNT OWNS EVERYONE AND EVERYTHING IN THIS STORY, BUT THE STORY IS MINE. IT IS NOT INTENDED FOR COMMERCIAL REPRODUCTION. FEEL FREE TO PASS IT ALONG TO YOUR FRIENDS, BUT PLEASE LEAVE MY NAME AND THIS MESSAGE ATTACHED. GREAT MINDS... By M.A. Boyd PROLOGUE He squeezed his eyes in an effort to see through the hazy darkness of the dimly lit bar. He was unaccustomed to meeting in such a public place. He pulled his brown and yellow cape further over his face. If he did not find his contact soon, he was going to forget all about the proposal that had come his way one week ago...even if he was aching to fulfill this particular request. Several minutes later, there was still no sign of the one who had called him to this place. He turned to go and was stayed by a hand on his right shoulder. "Leaving so soon?" He spun around to face his contact. He was surprised that even he felt a chill looking into the smooth grin that greeted him. "I didn't think you were going to come..." "Patience, my friend. Come, let's have a drink and discuss business. I know you'll think it was worth the wait." CHAPTER ONE Captain Jean-Luc Picard's middle name was *discreet.* At least, that was the latest middle name that had been furnished him. For three months now, he and his chief medical officer had been making up for twenty years of denial and frustration. (Actually it was closer to twenty five years...but they had stopped counting....) After all of these years, they had finally been guided into each others arms after she was abducted by the rogue Cardassian, Gul Madred. Gul Madred's sadistic mind had concocted an elaborate plot of revenge to assassinate Picard. He had kidnapped Dr. Beverly Crusher and, after torturing her for his own pleasure, had programmed her to kill Picard herself. Thankfully, the plot had failed and Picard and Crusher had both recovered from their physical and mental trauma. In fact, inspite of Gul Madred's efforts, each had found healing in the other. But, Gul Madred had thus far eluded capture and Picard and Crusher both realized that he (and others with axes to grind) could see their new *relationship* as a weakness that could be exploited. For that reason, they made every effort to keep their new *closeness* a very private matter, at least for now. Being *discreet* on a starship with over one thousand people, however, proved to be very difficult. Jean-Luc and Beverly had mastered the art of hiding behind the air of professional decorum...even when they brushed against each other in the corridors...and, when a casual glance across the conference table became a gaze...and, when a smile in Ten-Forward became a *come hither* promise of things to come. They actually rather enjoyed this, their own game of teasing...especially when they knew what the end of each day's *play* would bring. To their credit, the senior staff (and, who's kidding who...most of the Enterprise) did an admirable job of pretending not to notice. In fact, they rather enjoyed watching this play unfold each day...considering how long they had waited for the actors to decide to take their roles. The comedy/drama was only discussed in hushed tones...and only when the Captain and the glowing Doctor were definitely out of hailing distance. But, Picard and Crusher did not have to worry about their safety amongst these crew members. Each and every one of them felt a fierce devotion to them both. And each and every crew member would do anything to protect this long awaited romance. Captain Picard strode into the observation lounge for the morning's briefing with his senior staff. Dr. Crusher had *discreetly* entered a minute or so earlier to take her seat at the table. Commander Will Riker had a very difficult time suppressing the wicked grin that wanted to paint itself across his face. Counselor Deanna Troi had to assist him in his effort as she pinched his leg underneath the conference table. "Good morning, Captain," Deanna called cheerfully as she finally released Will from her grip. "Good morning, Counselor...everyone," he nodded as he took his seat at the head of the table. Picard did everything within his power to look at everyone except Dr. Crusher. His power was weak today. Beverly helped him by averting her eyes. Picard cleared his throat slightly. "So, Number One, what is the status of our sample collection?" Will straightened, his professional demeanor returning...even though his thigh still hurt. "Sir, we have finished measuring the various radiation fields in this sector and should complete our analyses of the asteroid samples today. Thanks to Commander Data's new spectral analysis technique, we have been able to finish four days ahead of schedule." "Excellent, Commander...And good work, Mr. Data. I'm sure that Starfleet will be pleased with the results." "Thank you, sir," Data responded. Data was never quite sure how to respond when he received praise for his work. It was, after all, simply a part of his programming. The Captain returned to business. "Now, unless anyone else has something to report..." Everyone shook their heads, in order. "Very good. Then I am pleased to inform you that Starfleet has given us a new mission. As soon as we are finished with our tests, we are to respond, with due haste, to Risa for some well-deserved R & R." There were smiles evident all around the table...with the exception of Worf, who merely nodded. "Now," Picard continued, "I suggest that we all get back to work so that we can get out of here as soon as possible." "Yes, sir," replied Geordi, who by now had already planned out his itinerary of adventures on Risa. Everyone stood and began to return to their duties. As she exited the room, Beverly could not resist casting one little glance over her shoulder at *her* Captain. She was not disappointed...he had had the same thought. Their eyes locked, briefly, and she felt her stomach flutter...*How many hours is it 'til we're off-duty?* She sighed. *Too many.* With that thought, she glanced around to see if anyone was looking....*Good. No one.*...and she mouthed three words to Jean-Luc. He couldn't resist as he spoke aloud, "Yes, Doctor. We will discuss that issue later." The door closed behind her...blocking her view of his *and you know what that means* look. Beverly was startled when she realized that Deanna was standing beside her. Deanna took Beverly by the arm and led her to the turbolift. The doors to the lift closed and they were alone. "Deck Twelve," Beverly instructed. The turbolift began its journey. She looked down at Deanna's hand, which was still on her arm. Deanna noticed her friend's puzzlement. "I thought you might need some help keeping your feet on the ground," Deanna teased. "Ha, Ha." She scrunched her face with some concern. "Deanna, was I that obvious?" "Beverly, don't worry. Remember, I am an empath..." She averted her eyes, hoping Beverly would not see her *I can't believe you actually think people don't know* look. It was difficult to keep from laughing. "Right, Deanna," Beverly replied, not at all convinced by her Betazoid friend's reassurance. "So, what are your plans for Risa?" Deanna queried "Computer, HALT!" shouted Beverly. She turned to Deanna. "O.K. Just ask what you really want to ask, Deanna!" Deanna laughed. "Well, since you gave me permission...I just wanted to know how everything was going...we haven't had a chance to talk in so long...." Beverly let out her breath. "I know we haven't....it's going wonderfully, Deanna. It's as though it's all a dream...I feel so young again. It makes me wonder what would have happened if we had started this years..." her voice trailed off. "Beverly...don't spend your time worrying about the past...you have the future now..." Beverly nodded. Deanna was a good friend and confidante. Beverly hugged her. "Thank you..you're absolutely right...and thank you for taking the step that finally brought us together." "Anything to see you two happy..." "Computer...resume..." They both turned to face the doors as the turbolift continued its trip. "So, Beverly, how about lunch today?" The doors opened on Deck Twelve. Beverly began to exit. "All right...but you bring the chocolate." Deanna laughed and nodded. CHAPTER TWO It had been a busy morning for Dr. Crusher. Two broken bones, courtesy of some over exuberant ensigns on the holodeck and seven cases of Azorian flu...which she hoped was not a sign of a shipwide epidemic to come. As she sat at her desk, completing her numerous reports, she longed for a visit from a very handsome someone with whom she had made dinner plans...and a few more *plans* after that. She sighed and noted the time...at least she would be able to escape in thirty minutes for lunch. *It will be nice to spend some time with Deanna...and just maybe I can find out the latest on her plans with Worf...* she mused. Her concentration returned as she surveyed the work in front of her. Then, all hell broke loose. "La Forge to Sick Bay. We have a medical emergency in Engineering. Lt. Martin is suffering from plasma burns!" She slapped her communicator, "Crusher to La Forge, we're on our way!" Beverly jumped from her desk and was met at the door by Lt. Ogawa and Lt. Vargas who were carrying their medikits. They all ran out the door. When they reached Engineering, they found Lt. Martin laying on the floor, writhing in pain. The plasma had already caused third degree burns on his arm and chest and it was continuing to spread across his chest, toward his stomach. They quickly moved into action beside him. Beverly quietly reassured the lieutenant, even as she calmly barked out orders to her nurses. His uniform jersey was destroyed and Beverly could actually see the plasma creep across his skin. They had to stop it. She quickly grabbed a stasis unit that would freeze the progress of the burning plasma as Lt. Ogawa administered a hypospray to relieve the lieutenant's pain and stop his writhing. Beverly slapped the unit onto his chest. She looked at the device on his chest...and froze. *This is too familiar...Why...* "Damn," she cried as she felt the pain from the burning plasma on her hand. She was being careless, and even though the pain was excruciating, her cry was more at her own stupidity. She held her hand out for moment, but soon succeeded in ignoring it so that she could concentrate on her patient. She was startled by one of the nurses. "Dr. Crusher....Dr. Crusher!" It was Lt. Vargas. She was looking at Beverly's hand. She shook herself back to the present..."O.K. Let's move him to sickbay. Advise Dr. Selar we're on our way." "Yes, Doctor." She did as her boss instructed. Lt. Ogawa leaned over Beverly's hand to examine it. "Dr. Crusher, let me see your hand." Beverly waved her off. "I'm fine, Alyssa." "You don't look fine. You look like you've seen a ghost." Beverly smiled at her nurse. "Really, it can wait. Lt. Martin cannot." But, she was still shaken by what had happened. She only wished she could figure out what *it* was. By the time she returned to Sick Bay her hand was throbbing. Plasma burns had a nasty way of eating through everything in their path. As Dr. Selar took over the care of Lt. Martin, Beverly finally relented and let Lt. Ogawa tend to her hand. Deanna walked into the chaos and saw Beverly as her hand was being wrapped in a bandage that would prevent the scarring that so often accompanied plasma burns. "Beverly, what happened?" she exclaimed, her dark eyes widening. "Nothing, Deanna. I just got a little careless." She hoped that Deanna would drop the subject. "That's not like you, Beverly. What happened?" She could sense that something was turning in the doctor's mind. "I said, nothing, Deanna. Drop it!" Beverly snapped back. Deanna took a step back, surprised at Beverly's anger. Beverly softened as she remembered why Deanna was there. "Deanna, I'm sorry. I'm just disgusted with myself. And I'm sorry about lunch..but I'm going to be tied up...some other time?" She managed a smile. "O.K., Beverly....I do understand." Beverly looked at her hand, which was now bandaged. "Thank you, Alyssa. And now, if you'll excuse me Deanna..." Beverly headed toward her office without waiting for a response. Deanna turned questioningly to Alyssa. "What happened?" "I'm not sure, Counselor. She was working on Lt. Martin in Engineering...and then she just froze. Her face went pale...but I suppose that was because of the burn on her hand." Alyssa was clearly just as confused by Beverly's behavior as Deanna was. "Counselor, excuse me please, I need to help Dr. Selar." Alyssa strode across Sick Bay, returning to her work. Deanna stood in their wake. "Something's not right here," she said to herself. CHAPTER THREE It had been two days since the incident in Engineering and Beverly's hand was recovering nicely. Jean-Luc had not pressed Beverly about the event...he knew from years of experience when Beverly did not want to discuss something. And this was something that she obviously did not want to discuss. He also did not press the issue when he noticed that Beverly was waking in the middle of the night and moving out into the main cabin to sit at the computer. He kept reminding himself that she often did this when she was obsessed with some project in her medical labs. Thank goodness they would arrive at Risa in a few hours and he could get her off of this ship and away from whatever was bothering her...that is, if the problem was on the ship. He sighed. Surely the problem wasn't him, was it? He erased that thought as he remembered the passion she showed him during their evening activities...her deep, yet tender kisses, the softness of her hands as she moved them urgently across his body. No. Something else was on Beverly's mind. But, she would talk about it when she was ready. And he would be there for her at that moment. Three hours later, the Enterprise was manned only by a skeleton crew as her personnel emptied forth onto the surface of Risa. Jean-Luc had arranged it so that he and Beverly could take the first two days off on the planet before returning to their duties. He strolled toward her quarters, confident that he would not be seen by any of the handful of crew members that remained aboard. He sounded the door chime and was greeted by a swoosh of the door. Before him stood a very harried-looking doctor. She had tied her hair back, but strands were hanging down across her face. Her jacket collar was tucked under and her hands were jammed in her pockets. He smiled. *She's absolutely gorgeous!* "Jean-Luc! You're early!" "Actually, Beverly, I'm a little late..." He glanced up and down the corridor. "Can I come in?" Beverly was roused from her surprised stance. "Of course, Jean-Luc. I'm sorry. I was trying to pack...I guess I just lost track of the time!" He grabbed her by the hand. "No harm done. We can go whenever you're ready." He loved seeing her this way...just a little out of control. "In fact, our reservations for dinner are not for several hours..." He melted her with his smile and her flurry of activity was now a fading memory. She loved the way he could wipe everything from in her mind with just one look. Jean-Luc pulled her to him. She could feel his heartbeat racing, his temperature rising, and his cheeks starting to turn a healthy shade of rose...something that she had learned only occurred when he wanted... He cut her thoughts off with a kiss. He reached behind her and loosened her hair, letting it spill across her shoulders. He loved the feel of it as it brushed against him, tickling his neck. He overcame his strong urge to take her right there, in the middle of the room. He picked her up and carried her into the bedroom, her hands driving him wild as they found their way inside his shirt. Their *vacation* began. Jean-Luc and Beverly reclined in their guest quarters, relaxing in each others arms. Their morning *recreation* had given them ravenous appetites and they were not disappointed by their delicious meal at the secluded restaurant on Risa. Beverly had been sedated by the heavy meal and soon she was asleep in his arms. Jean-Luc slowly stroked her cheek with the back of his hand. It was a relief to see her this peaceful, the lines of worry that had crept upon her recently were gone. He lifted her carefully and carried her to bed. She dreamily opened her eyes and smiled at him as he tenderly kissed her forehead, then her lips. He wrapped himself around her and they both fell into a contented slumber. They filled their next day with horseback riding across uninhabited fields and beside small streams. Their planned picnic under the shade of a large M'bosa tree lasted much longer than planned after a simple foot massage turned into *more.* They then decided that they really should move back to their quarters and *enjoy* their last night on Risa undisturbed. Upon their return to their room, Jean-Luc ceremoniously saw to it that the door was secure. They spent the rest of the afternoon and evening developing their appetite for dinner. Their dinner consisted of the leftovers from their picnic luncheon...they savored each bite as they fed each other teasingly in front of the fire Jean-Luc had built in the very large, gothic style fireplace. Dessert began with two incredibly large chocolate sundaes that Beverly had delivered to the room. As Jean-Luc *assisted* Beverly in devouring her sundae, he was pleased to see that most of the chocolate ended up on her face. He laughed as he looked at her, an impish grin creeping out from behind the mess. He was suddenly overcome by a craving for chocolate. He rolled her onto her back and tasted her lips. It was the most delicious *dessert* he had ever had. He pulled back for a moment so that he could look at her loving face. Beverly laughed at the sight of his chocolate smudged face. The music in her laughter filled his mind. He intended to hear that music every day for the rest of his life. He leaned down to finish his last *course*....the door chimed. Jean-Luc and Beverly groaned in unison. "Ignore it," he whispered. "Maybe they'll go away." They froze, hoping whoever it was hadn't heard them. The door chimed again. They got up and quickly adjusted their robes. Jean-Luc moved toward the door, but Beverly stopped him quickly...his face was still covered with chocolate. She gave him a quick kiss and then wiped off the smudges with her sleeve. He examined her face and winked his seal of approval. She then crossed the room and sat on the couch, trying not to look as though she had just been in the middle of being ravished. Jean-Luc opened the door and was greeted by a messenger. The young man spoke, "I'm sorry to bother you, sir. Your ship has asked that you contact them immediately." Jean-Luc thanked the messenger and closed the door. *What could have happened?* He turned to Beverly who shared his look of concern. Jean-Luc went to a panel on the wall and pushed a button. A door slid open, revealing a communications screen. In a moment, he was looking at Commander Riker. "Yes, Number One. What is it?" Riker sounded apologetic. "I'm sorry to disturb you, Captain...Doctor *he had to add that, of course*, but there is a priority message for you from Starfleet and, because of its classification I cannot route it to you planetside." "Understood, Commander. I will return to the ship immediately. Picard out." Jean-Luc turned to Beverly. She rolled her eyes and moaned. "I knew this was too good to last." He moved beside her and began to massage her shoulders. "I'm sure I can take care of this matter quickly. Why don't you stay here...and keep *our* bed warm...I'll get back as soon as possible." "I don't know, Jean-Luc..." she began to protest. He stopped her. "Beverly. You need to relax. It will make me happy to know that you are still here, resting, waiting for me..." He leaned down and kissed her. He felt her sigh. "All right, Jean-Luc. But promise you'll call if you need me." "Promise." CHAPTER FOUR One hour later, Captain Picard was sitting in his Ready Room, watching his viewer. The message was from Admiral Nechayev. As usual, her appearance was impeccable and crisp...and her voice carried that same crispness. "Greetings, Captain Picard. I'm sorry to disturb your well-deserved vacation, but I have news that I thought you would want to hear. Informants have led us to a deserted settlement on T'soma Alpha where we believe Gul Madred is hiding. We have three ships on the way there now and they should be arriving by 2300 hours tomorrow. Jean-Luc, we will capture him...I know the pain he has caused you and it will not go unanswered. Now, I'll let you get back to enjoying your vacation. Nechayev out." The image of the admiral was replaced by the Starfleet insignia screen. Picard sat back in his chair. Finally, Gul Madred was about to get his due. For three months he had sat by, impatiently waiting for word as higher channels tracked the Cardassian down. It had been difficult to not be a part of the investigation, but his duties had lain elsewhere. He let out his breath as the door chimed. "Come." Will Riker entered...he obviously wanted to know what was in the communique. "Have a seat, Commander. I believe I have some good news...." Beverly had finally fallen asleep on the now lonely bed. She was comforted by the thought of Jean-Luc returning; but, it had been difficult to shut her eyes. For the past several days, her dreams had been filled with disturbing images...images she was slowly piecing together. Gul Madred had erased the memories of the torture she endured when he programmed her to kill Jean-Luc and, thanks to Jean-Luc and a treatment devised by Will and Deanna, she had been able to put the ordeal behind her. But, the sight of the device on Lt. Martin's chest had opened something...a Pandora's box of images. She saw, no felt, herself being dragged down a long corridor, her legs sliding roughly against the metal floor. She remembered the sensation of hanging by her wrists...Gul Madred standing before her with a device raised in front of her. She closed her eyes tightly, hoping to squeeze out the visions. She sat cross-legged on the bed, practicing the relaxation technique that Deanna had taught her. Soon, one image filled her mind. She was on Kesprytt with Jean-Luc, wrapped in his strong arms. She held fast onto that feeling of safety as she drifted off to sleep. He quietly entered the room. The security lock on the door had been quite simple to override. He gazed upon the slumbering figure on the bed. The sight of her figure excited him. He smiled. He was going to enjoy this. Too bad he did not have time to let his mind free to do everything that he wanted to do. He slowly approached her and kneeled beside the bed. He stared into her peaceful face. What was she dreaming about? He moved closer as he listened to her soft breath. He slowly and deliberately put his hand on her head. He closed his eyes. Somewhere inside Beverly Crusher's mind, she was screaming. [to be continued....] Path: tivoli.tivoli.com!geraldo.cc.utexas.edu!cs.utexas.edu!howland.reston.ans.net!news-e1a.megaweb.com!newstf01.news.aol.com!newsbf02.news.aol.com!not-for-mail From: mabtng@aol.com (MABTNG) Newsgroups: alt.startrek.creative Subject: NEW TNG STORY: Great Minds...(5-8) Date: 13 May 1995 09:05:42 -0400 Organization: America Online, Inc. (1-800-827-6364) Lines: 443 Sender: root@newsbf02.news.aol.com Message-ID: <3p2ar6$h93@newsbf02.news.aol.com> Reply-To: mabtng@aol.com (MABTNG) NNTP-Posting-Host: newsbf02.mail.aol.com Xref: tivoli.tivoli.com alt.startrek.creative:10317 Here are the next few chapters of this Picard/Crusher adventure.... DISCLAIMER: PARAMOUNT OWNS EVERYONE AND EVERYTHING IN THIS STORY. THE STORY IS MINE. IT IS NOT INTENDED FOR COMMERCIAL REPRODUCTION. FEEL FREE TO PASS IT ALONG TO YOUR FRIENDS, HOWEVER, PLEASE LEAVE MY NAME AND THIS MESSAGE ATTACHED. GREAT MINDS... CHAPTER FIVE Jean-Luc quickly strode down the hallway of the hotel. Four hours was about four hours too many to be apart from Beverly. It was late as he opened the door to the darkened room and tiptoed toward the beautiful figure on the bed. He paused when he saw her face, bathed in the light of the stars that filtered through the window above the bed. Bands of light reflected off of her hair. Jean-Luc could not resist the urge to be a part of her again. He leaned down and kissed her face. She did not stir. Her face was cold. *Something is not right.* He gently nudged her shoulder. "Beverly," he called softly. There was no response. An urgency gripped his stomach. He shook her. Beverly did not move. He rolled her onto her back to check her breathing. *Good. She's breathing.* But, her breathing was deep and slow. Her heartbeat was slow and faint. It looked as though she had been drugged. His mind raced. He grabbed her robe and draped it across her shoulders, wanting to save her from any embarrassment. He then tapped the communicator on his uniform. "Picard to Enterprise." It was a few agonizing seconds before he got a response. "Riker here, sir." "Commander. Two to beam from my location directly to Sick Bay..Dr. Crusher is unconscious..." "Yes, sir. It will take a moment to get a lock on you..." Riker could hear the concern in Picard's voice. Picard gathered Beverly in his arms and a minute later he felt the shiver of the transporter beam as it gripped him. Captain Picard paced back and forth in Sick Bay. It had been three hours since he had brought Beverly here. There was still no explanation for her condition...this coma. Dr. Selar had run every test imaginable...and still found nothing. The doors to Sick Bay opened and Deanna Troi entered, followed by Worf. She glanced at Beverly on the biobed, then she approached the Captain. "Counselor,..." "Captain, Will contacted me and told me about Beverly...what happened?" Picard shook his head. "I don't know, Deanna. It's as though she has fallen asleep and won't wake up... Dr. Selar cannot explain her condition." Worf stepped forward, his frown more pronounced than usual. "Sir, perhaps I should return to Risa and search her quarters. Maybe there is a clue that will tell us what...or who...did this..." "Yes, Mr. Worf. Make it so. I can tell you, however, that I did not see anything that appeared out of order." Worf quickly exited...pleased that there was something that he could be doing. "Captain, I don't know if this has anything to do with what has happened, but for the past few days I have been concerned about Beverly. Ever since the day she burned her hand, I've sensed anger and confusion from her. I had hoped that her time on Risa would give her a chance to release those emotions..." "Yes, Counselor...I sensed the same from her...but she was completely relaxed on Risa...perhaps..." "Yes, sir?" "Deanna, would you be able to sense anything from her now? ...perhaps you could find a clue..." "Of course, sir. I'll try." Deanna moved beside Beverly and held her hand. She closed her eyes and tried to move inside the mind of her unconscious friend. Deanna stayed this way for several minutes...her brow began to crease...her breathing quickened. Picard stood by, anxiously watching them both. Finally, Deanna cried out and let go of Beverly's hand. Picard grabbed Deanna's arm. "Counselor?" Deanna calmed herself. "I'm all right, Captain. I just didn't expect..." "Expect what, Deanna?" She turned to him. "Apparently Gul Madred's memory erasure procedure was not complete. On a subconscious level, Beverly is remembering what happened to her. I could sense her fear and terror..." Deanna did not want to continue. She did not want to hurt the Captain. Picard's face darkened. "Could this possibly explain why she does not wake up?" "Yes, sir. I've heard of cases where individuals who have experienced severe mental trauma have lapsed into medically inexplicable comas. Their minds shut down as a defensive reaction to memories that they cannot cope with..." "And how do we...when will she wake up?" "It's hard to say, sir. These *reactions* can last a few hours... or a few months. It's up to Beverly. She'll wake up when she feels it is safe to do so." At Deanna's suggestion, Beverly was moved to a private area of the intensive care unit. Picard stayed with her constantly. He did not want to think about the images that had caused Beverly to do this. Gul Madred had been "kind" enough to see that Picard received a recording of the torture. He already knew what Beverly had been through. All he could do was hold her hand and whisper to her, trying to reach her and bring her back to the safety of his embrace. After ten hours, Picard was exhausted. Dark circles had formed under his eyes and his voice was hoarse from his nonstop soliloquy of reassurances in Beverly's ear. If his awareness had not been so heightened and attuned to her every breath, he would not have noticed the first movement. Her hand twitched. Picard sat bolt upright. He leaned over her. "Beverly!" Her eyes slowly fluttered open. She smiled at him. "Jean-Luc...good morning." For a moment, she was still on Risa...then she noticed the bright lights. She looked around her. *What the hell?* She looked at Jean-Luc. "Why am I in Sick Bay? .. And where the hell are my clothes?!" She wrapped her nightgown tightly around her as she began to sit up. Jean-Luc quickly put his arm around her to help her. "What do you remember?" She looked at him, slightly annoyed and very confused. *Why won't he answer me?* "I was in our room on Risa, waiting for you...and I finally fell asleep. That's it. Now, are you going to tell me what's going on?" She demanded. "Beverly, we don't know. I came back to the room and found you unconscious. Let's have Dr. Selar check you out. If she gives her approval we'll take you back to your quarters..." "Please...get me out of here..." Beverly hated being a patient in her own Sick Bay. Picard was not stopped by her interjection. "And then, I want you to talk to Counselor Troi." "Deanna? Why?" He took her by the hands. "Because, *something* has been bothering you recently and maybe Deanna can help.." "But, Jean-Luc, I'm fine..." "Doctor, that's an order.....please?" His firm tone had turned to concern. "O.K., Jean-Luc. Just get me out of here...and could you get me some clothes?" CHAPTER SIX He weighed the pressed latinum in his hands. It was a handsome price. Gul Madred laughed at his associate's greed. "I thought it appropriate to add a bonus to the fee we had agreed upon. The information you provided will serve me well." The Ullian looked up and smiled as he headed for the door, pocketing his *reward.* "Gul Madred, you should have known. I would have done this for free." He left as Gul Madred called after him, "It was a pleasure doing business with you, Jev." CHAPTER SEVEN Captain Picard sat behind his desk in his Ready Room. Deanna Troi was seated across from him. Worf had searched the room on Risa and had found no indication of foul play. Deanna was the last hope for finding the answer to this mystery. "So, Deanna, you are saying that Beverly really does not remember what happened on Risa?" "No, sir, she doesn't. Right now, all she wants to do is get back to work and forget this whole incident..." "But, would that be wise?" Picard asked. "Actually it might be the best thing for her. The only thing I sense from her now is the confusion over this whole incident...and that would be expected. The anger and fear is gone. It is possible that the coma served its purpose and Beverly has somehow managed to file the memories of her torture away...and put them behind her." "Still, I don't know..." Picard was hesitant. "Captain. I'll keep a close eye on her and continue our talks. If it appears that the memories are surfacing again, I will let you know immediately." "Thank you, Deanna. It's a great comfort to know you are here." "CAPTAIN'S LOG: SUPPLEMENTAL: It has been two days since our departure from Risa. Dr. Crusher has resumed her duties and has shown no residual effects from her coma. Meanwhile, we have received an emergency transmission from the mining colony on Rubatia. An explosion in one of their revanium mines has injured several hundred of their workers. We are en route to lend our medical assistance. Picard and his senior staff sat around the conference table in the observation lounge. Dr. Crusher had just finished her briefing on the preparations for their arrival at Rubatia. All primary and secondary trained medical personnel had been pressed into service. Shuttle Bay Two was being converted for use as an emergency medical facility. All preparations were running smoothly and would be ready prior to their arrival which would be in three hours. Everyone stood and began filing out. Picard stopped Beverly. He waited until the door closed. The air of professionalism from the meeting still hung between them. Picard examined *his* doctor's eyes which belied the seemingly limitless energy exhibited by her body. "Beverly, how are you doing?" "I'm fine, Jean-Luc. My staff has everything well in hand..." "Beverly. That's not what I meant...and you know it." Picard rubbed his hands on her tense arms. "I'm worried about you..." He spoke softly. "Jean-Luc, really, I'm fine. I don't want you to worry. As soon as we reach Rubatia I'll feel better. You know how I am when we're en route to a medical emergency." He nodded. She only behaved the same way he did when they were en route to a new mission...worried about his crew's safety...concerned about preparations...considering every possibility for every contingency that might come up. "I'm sorry. You are right. But, please let me know if there is anything I can do to help..." She smiled and the warmth enveloped him. "Thank you, Jean-Luc." She leaned forward and gave him a kiss. "I'll talk to you later... I have a feeling that I'll need a massage *doctor* after all of this." Picard arched his eyebrow at the thought. Beverly left him standing there with his widening grin as she returned to her duties. The Enterprise orbited high above the surface of Rubatia. Its calm green-blue skies gave no indication of the chaos that was occurring below. Dr. Crusher and her medical teams had set up their triage unit in a large warehouse structure near the site of the mine explosion. They were examining each of the injured and transporting those who needed immediate care to Shuttle Bay Two. The casualties were heavy, but Dr. Crusher and her staff had the situation under control. Meanwhile, Captain Picard had beamed down with a small away team at the request of the Rubatian governor to assist in their investigation of the cause of the explosion. Picard spoke with the governor while Worf, Geordi and Data surveyed the site. Picard returned to them shortly to brief his team. "It seems that there has been an ongoing dispute over ownership of the mine. The governor feels that if we can find what caused the explosion, he and his staff will be able to find the saboteurs." The team spread out to conduct their search. After several hours, Geordi called out. The team responded to his location. "Captain, I believe I may have something here." "Go ahead, Mr. La Forge." "I'm picking up a large amount of trace elements in this area. I'm not positive, but it appears to be dirinium scialate..." Data cocked his head in thought. "That is interesting. The elements in dirinium scialate are not native to this system. They would have to be brought here from another location." "Yes, Mr. Data. I am familiar with the substance." Picard stated flatly. "Sir, I find it unusual that the saboteurs would find it necessary to import such ingredients to create this explosion when there are other substances readily available on Rubatia." "I agree. It would seem that we may be dealing with an outside influence here." Worf had stiffened even more at this news. "Sir, if we are dealing with an 'outside influence,' it would be wise to heighten security in the triage building as well as on board the Enterprise." Picard hit his comm badge. "Picard to Dr. Crusher." "Crusher here." Her voice was tired. "Status of treatment and evacuation, Doctor." "The most critical patients have all been evacuated to the Enterprise. We should be done with our work on the surface within the hour." "Thank you, Doctor. Picard out." "Mr. Worf, I want you and Mr. La Forge to go back to the Enterprise and work with Commander Riker. Have the ship go to Yellow Alert. Commander Data and I will proceed to the triage building to see what can be done about speeding up the evacuation of our personnel." "Aye, sir." Worf was not entirely comfortable with the idea of leaving his captain on the surface...but it was not his place to question his commanding officer. Picard and Data entered the makeshift triage building. In spite of Dr. Crusher's strict procedures concerning sanitation, evidence of the explosion's aftermath lay everywhere. They came out of the entry hallway and got their first real look at the conditions the medical team had been dealing with. The only patients that remained were a handful of *walking wounded.* Picard could see Dr. Crusher working with her staff across the room as they began to pack up their equipment so that they could return to the Enterprise. *They all look exhausted,* Picard thought as he crossed the room. Lt. Ogawa saw Picard coming first. She touched Beverly's arm and she looked up. *What the devil is he doing here?* He motioned to her and she went over to speak with him in private. "Dr. Crusher, how soon can you and your staff be ready to leave here?" She gave him a puzzled look. "As I told you a few minutes ago, Captain, we should be ready within an hour." He lowered his voice. "Doctor, we have reason to believe that the area may not be secure. We need to leave as soon as possible." "Well, all of the patients can leave now; however, it will still take some time to prepare our equipment for transport...I can have all non-essential personnel return to the Enterprise immediately..that would leave about ten of us here." "That's a good start, Doctor. Mr. Data and I will assist you." They managed to evacuate all of the remaining patients without causing any alarm. Soon, they were left with only a handful of medical staff in the building. Within thirty minutes, their packing was nearly complete. Beverly directed all of her staff, except for Lt. Ogawa, to beam back to the Enterprise and they did as ordered. Picard was helping Beverly with the containers when his comm badge sounded. "Riker to Captain Picard..." "What is it, Commander?" "We've received a priority message for you." "Thank you, Number One. We're almost finished here. I will be there in a few minutes. Picard out." Picard turned to Beverly as she sealed the last container. She was about to tell him they were finished when suddenly a man came rushing in. "I need help! My brother is outside and he's been injured!" Dr. Crusher motioned to Lt. Ogawa. "Alyssa, go with him. I'll be right behind you with the medikit." Lt. Ogawa ran toward the door. Picard motioned to Data for him to accompany her. Beverly began ripping open containers. "Damn...the medikits were supposed to be in this one. Jean-Luc, take this pack of bandages to Alyssa...tell her I'll be there in a minute." Picard nodded and took the pack. He then hurried toward the door. As he moved down the hallway, a figure suddenly appeared before him. Picard could not make out his face because of the bright sunlight from the door. But, he could see the shape...and it was definitely Cardassian. He started to lunge at the figure but was stopped by the sight of the phaser that had been leveled at him. "Let's not be hasty, Captain Picard. Now, please remove your communicator and your phaser." Picard removed them and they dropped to the floor. The figure quickly destroyed the communicator with his phaser. "What the hell do you want?" "Why, Captain...I thought that was obvious. But, we seem to be lacking for time right now. You see, there is an explosive in this building and it is set to go off in twenty seconds. I suggest you use your time wisely." Picard looked at the phaser. *Beverly!* He turned and ran back into the building. Data and Lt. Ogawa had run outside only to find that the man who had called for help had disappeared. They stopped and looked at each other. "Where did he go, sir?" "It would appear, Lieutenant, that something is *afoot.* I suggest we return to the building immediately for the Captain and Dr. Crusher." They were turning toward the building when they were interrupted by the voice of Worf over Data's comm badge. "Worf to Commander Data. We have lost the Captain's signal. Can you advise?" "Standby, Lieutenant..." Data quickly responded. Data and Lt. Ogawa started to run toward the building. Jean-Luc Picard had never run this fast in his life. *There will never be enough time to get out of here!* He ran toward Beverly, shouting, "Beverly! Get down!" She looked up just in time to see Jean-Luc flying through the air in her direction. He tackled her to the ground just as their entire world exploded in a very bright light. CHAPTER EIGHT Data and Lt Ogawa were approximately twenty meters from the building when it exploded. The concussion from the blast lifted both of them and threw them back. On the bridge of the Enterprise, Worf shouted to Commander Riker. "Commander, the medical building has exploded!" Riker was stunned. He began to hail the away team. "Riker to Captain Picard....Dr. Crusher.....Commander Data?" "There is no response, sir." Worf announced, barely controlling his rage. "Can you get a lock on their signals?" "Not yet, sir. There is too much interference." "Riker to Commander Data..." There was moment of static. Then the interference subsided. "Data to Commander Riker. The medical building has exploded." "Commander Data, is everyone all right?" "No, sir. Lt. Ogawa is injured. Captain Picard and Dr. Crusher were in the building." "Mr. Worf, get a lock on Lt. Ogawa and beam her directly to sickbay. Mr. Data can you reach the Captain and Dr. Crusher?" "No, sir. The building was completely destroyed." It took a moment for the meaning of Data's message to get through to Riker. Then he spun around. "Mr. Worf! Get down there with a team immediately!" Worf moved quickly to the turbolift and was gone. Worf and his security team surveyed the damage with Data. Data had sustained some minor damage but had requested to remain and assist in the search. The building, which had been hastily constructed with rough materials, was completely obliterated. There were no signs of life. Worf, however, refused to leave until they had at least found the remains of the Captain and Dr. Crusher so that they could be afforded a burial that was due to two officers who had been killed in the line of duty. After two hours, Data informed Worf that there was little chance of finding them and Worf had finally relented when Riker ordered them back aboard the Enterprise. The bridge of the Enterprise was a somber place to be. Deanna Troi had already left to attend the wounded in Sick Bay. She knew it would be easier to deal with their pain than the horrible emptiness she now felt. Meanwhile, Will Riker, now captain of the Enterprise, was dealing with ship operations and having to field communications from the governor of Rubatia who had professed his condolences over the loss they had suffered. Riker informed the governor that he would meet with him to discuss what the away team had discovered about the elements used to create the disasters. Riker then proceeded to prepare a communique to notify Starfleet of the death of Captain Picard and Dr. Crusher. It was the hardest duty he had ever performed. Deanna moved among the patients in Sick Bay. She noticed Alyssa Ogawa on one of the biobeds and moved to her side. Alyssa was awake, but silent. Deanna knew that she was overcome with shock. The lacerations on her face and arms showed just how close she had been to being lost. She moved beside Alyssa. "Alyssa..." Alyssa turned her head, but her eyes were still vacant. Deanna then noticed that her pupils were fully dilated. "Alyssa, it's Deanna." "I'm sorry, Counselor. It seems I was temporarily blinded by the explosion. Dr. Selar says my sight will return in a day or two. Did Data find Bev...Dr. Crusher?" Deanna was surprised that no one had told her... She put her hand on Alyssa's arm. "I'm afraid that Beverly and the Captain did not get out of the building in time." Alyssa was silent for a moment. She swallowed hard and then spoke, "Counselor, I'd really rather not talk right now. I want to be alone." "I understand, Alyssa...but please let me know if you need anything...I know that you and Beverly were good friends and that she was very fond of you..." Deanna quickly excused herself and soon found herself standing in Beverly's office. *What am I doing here?* She walked behind the desk and saw the padd on the chair. She picked it up and ran it through her hands. She slowly sat down in the chair and gazed around the office. The theater masks on the wall stared down at her. She had always been amused by them, but now they only looked tragic. The computer hummed away, unaware that its mistress was not coming back. She leaned far back into the chair...she could feel Beverly in the room, smell her perfume in the fabric... Deanna closed her eyes..trying to convince herself that this was all just a nightmare. Commander Riker walked wearily from the Ready Room and moved toward the empty center chair. He could not bring himself to sit in it. "Sir, we still are holding that communique from Starfleet...will you be taking it?" Riker looked up at Worf. He merely nodded and motioned toward the Ready Room. He slowly walked back to the room to receive the message. He sat down behind Picard's... *his*... desk and watched the viewscreen as it came to life. Admiral Nechayev appeared. "Captain Picard. I regret to inform you that our raid on T'soma Alpha was unsuccessful. The information apparently was planted by an informant who had been paid by Gul Madred to misguide our efforts. Information from the *interrogation* of this informant leads us to believe that Gul Madred may be in your sector. I advise you to use extreme caution during your mission on Rubatia as it may be a trap. We are sending ships to assist you, but the nearest ship is twenty-four hours away. Good luck until then. Jean-Luc, I'm sorry the news could not be more positive. Nechayev out." The screen went blank. Riker's mind began to race. *Maybe everything is not as it seems.....* [to be continued...] M.A. Boyd Path: tivoli.tivoli.com!geraldo.cc.utexas.edu!cs.utexas.edu!howland.reston.ans.net!news-e1a.megaweb.com!newstf01.news.aol.com!newsbf02.news.aol.com!not-for-mail From: mabtng@aol.com (MABTNG) Newsgroups: alt.startrek.creative Subject: NEW TNG STORY: Great Minds...(9-12) Date: 13 May 1995 09:05:43 -0400 Organization: America Online, Inc. (1-800-827-6364) Lines: 228 Sender: root@newsbf02.news.aol.com Message-ID: <3p2ar7$h94@newsbf02.news.aol.com> Reply-To: mabtng@aol.com (MABTNG) NNTP-Posting-Host: newsbf02.mail.aol.com Xref: tivoli.tivoli.com alt.startrek.creative:10318 And...the next few chapters of this Picard/Crusher tale... DISCLAIMER: PARAMOUNT OWNS EVERYONE AND EVERYTHING IN THIS STORY. ONLY THE STORY IS MINE. IT ISNOT INTENDED FOR COMMERCIAL REPRODUCTION. FEEL FREE TO PASS IT ALONG TO YOUR FRIENDS, HOWEVER, PLEASE LEAVE MY NAME AND THIS MESSAGE ATTACHED. GREAT MINDS... CHAPTER NINE She awoke to the sounds of boots moving down the hall, metal doors slamming shut. The hard, cold floor pressed into her face. She opened her eyes and they slowly adjusted to the dim light. She was in a small, bare cell. Beverly slowly pushed herself up and leaned against the wall behind her. Her ears were ringing and her head pounding. She took stock of her body and was thankful that, other than the horrendous headache, she was uninjured. Beverly ran her shaky fingers through her hair, massaging the ache and hoping it would vanish. She moved her kneading fingers to the back of her neck. *What's that?* A small piece of metal protruded from the flesh at the base of her skull. Before she could examine it further, she was startled by a moan. Beverly spun around to face the wall behind her. She found that it was actually a grated partition with thin slits that she could just see through. She moved her fingers over the small openings as she strained to see what lay beyond. The throbbing in Jean-Luc Picard's head began to ease as he rolled onto his back, emitting a small groan. *What the...* "Jean-Luc?" He heard Beverly's voice softly calling to him. Picard looked up and, for the first time, noticed his bare surroundings. "Jean-Luc, is that you?" His gaze fixed on the partitioned wall to his right. He realized that the wall apparently separated him from..*Beverly.* "Beverly...are you all right?" "Other than a headache of supernova proportions...And you?" The relief in her voice was obvious. "Let's just say, I can see your 'supernova'...do you know where we are?" "I was hoping you could tell me...Jean-Luc, I really don't want to ask you this...but, have you checked the back of your head?" "No, why?" He rubbed his hand across his neck and soon had his answer. He didn't wait for her response. "It would seem that Gul Madred has plans for us." Beverly was silent for a few moments. *This isn't real.* "Gul Madred?" "Yes, Beverly. I believe he caused the explosions on Rubatia. A Cardassian stopped me from leaving the medical building. I was running back to warn you when the explosion occurred..." He was beginning to form a picture of the situation as he listened to his own words. *The explosion! The Enterprise probably thought they were dead!* He felt a sense of dread from the other side of the wall. Beverly had heard his thoughts. *I guess we're in for another round of this, Jean-Luc...* He appreciated her attempt at humor, but he really was becoming concerned about what purpose the implants would serve. What did Gul Madred have in store for them? He leaned back against the partition, wanting to be able to touch her. He could almost feel her through the wall, pressed against him. *Beverly, I'm afraid we must face the possibility...or the probability...that Gul Madred intends to use our 'link' against us...* *I know, Jean-Luc...* *And the Enterprise is probably not coming for us...we will have to find our own way out of this...* *I understand...and I'm certainly open to any ideas you have...* Their two minds were prompted to quickly share one common thought as they heard the footsteps approaching. The doors to their cells began to open. CHAPTER TEN Acting Captain Will Riker sat with the senior staff around the conference table in the observation lounge. He was about to turn the heat on their investigation up several notches. "A few minutes ago, I received a communique from Admiral Nechayev. She advised that Starfleet believes that Gul Madred is in this sector... and, since I do not believe in coincidences, I must suspect that he had something to do with the explosions...and the 'loss' of Captain Picard and Dr. Crusher." "If he did, we will find him," growled Worf. "My thoughts exactly, Mr. Worf." "Where do you want us to begin, sir?" Geordi was anxious to get his mind on anything other than the depression that had invaded the ship. "Those explosive elements had to be transported here. Get the transport logs from the Rubatians and check every log for every freighter or transport that landed here in the past two weeks...if you don't find anything there, keep going back until you do." "Yes, sir." "Commander Data, I want you to scan all of our sensor readings immediately prior to the blast for anything out of the ordinary...see if there was any unusual movement..." "Yes, sir." "And Lt. Worf, check to see if there was any activity around the planet immediately after the explosion...were there any ships leaving orbit..." "Aye, sir." "I want to know the minute anyone finds anything...and make it fast. If Gul Madred was behind this, we have no time to lose." CHAPTER ELEVEN The squadron of guards led their two prisoners down the long corridor. Picard and Crusher surveyed their "escorts" as they were prodded toward the lighted room that loomed before them. They were an eclectic group of different races...obviously mercenaries hired by Gul Madred. Prior to their forced march, the guards had confiscated their Starfleet uniforms and had "generously" provided them with robes that reminded Picard of the sackcloth so often mentioned in the ancient volumes of his library. The link between Picard and Crusher had intensified and he could feel her trepidation...and she could feel his anger developing in response to her emotions. *Jean-Luc, I'm all right...please, don't do anything...* *Damn it, Beverly! How am I supposed to react to this?* *I know...but we must keep our heads clear...you know that...at least, that's what you always tell me...* She shoved the fear from her mind and concentrated on remaining calm, for his sake. She felt him release some of his rage as her thoughts washed through him. *Thank you, Beverly...* *Anytime, 'dear'....* The guards pushed them through the doorway. The large room was empty except for a desk at the far side of the room. Two simple chairs sat in front of the desk. Picard's rage rekindled when he saw the figure seated behind the desk. *Gul Madred...* His hatred for the Cardassian flooded Beverly's mind. She had never felt such a venom in her life...and it scared her...because she found she was harboring the same intense desire to kill. *Jean-Luc...please...* Gul Madred stood and smiled as he motioned to the two chairs. "Ah, Captain Picard, Dr. Crusher...I'm so glad you could join me. It's been too long...please, have a seat." Picard lunged forward and was immediately grabbed by the two guards that flanked him. "You will answer for this, Gul Madred." The guard on his right answered this threat with a punch to Picard's back. Picard doubled over, gasping. Beverly immediately fell to the floor, feeling every fiery point of the sharp pain. "Gentlemen, really..." Gul Madred strolled over to Picard and directed Picard's attention to Beverly. "Now, Captain. I'd say that was not a very bright move on your part. You wouldn't want to cause your companion any pain, now would you?" Picard looked up from his own anguish to see Beverly, who was still on the floor, gasping for air. *Beverly!...I'm sorry...I didn't think...* *It's o.k., Jean-Luc...I'm o.k....* Their eyes met as the guards picked them up from the floor. Gul Madred motioned to the guards as they "helped" the prisoners into their seats. "Thank you, gentlemen...I believe that our guests will remember this lesson. I don't think we'll have another problem with behavior...Will we, Captain?" Picard did not respond. He could only glare at his captor. The guards slowly retreated to the far side of the room. Gul Madred returned to his seat. He pushed two cups across the desk toward his guests. "Captain Picard, I've taken the liberty of preparing some tea for you and the fair Doctor. I do hope you find it to your liking." "Go to hell," Picard snarled. "I don't think I like your attitude, Captain." Gul Madred's smile quickly turned into a glare. He raised his right arm and with one blow the cups flew across the room. The sound of shattering glass echoed through the room. Picard felt Beverly flinch as a small shard of the debris hit her forehead, causing a small trickle of blood to flow down the side of her face. *Don't regret that Jean-Luc...if you hadn't said it, I would have.* Picard smiled. *Have I told you recently how much I love you?* *I think you just did, Jean-Luc...* Gul Madred could see what was happening between them. He rose and the guards came forward. On his direction, they grabbed Beverly and began to drag her to an alcove a few meters away. The nausea hit them almost immediately. Picard fell off of his chair. Beverly remained upright only because of the grip the guards had on her. *Jean-Luc...* He tried to crawl toward her...to close the distance. The implants fed off of one another and could not be separated. Gul Madred stepped on Picard's back, pinning him to the floor. "I think that should serve as reminder of who is in charge here, Picard." Picard nodded weakly. Gul Madred released his foot and allowed Picard to continue toward Beverly. Two more guards moved beside Picard and dragged him to a post near the alcove. They quickly pulled his arms around the post and secured his wrists with a locking device. He looked up to see Beverly's "attendants" attaching her to a beam above her head. Her legs barely reached the floor. *Jean-Luc, I'm beginning to think negatively...* Gul Madred motioned to the guards and they exited the room, the door closing behind them. He was now alone with his "guests." He picked up two items from the desk and slowly moved toward Beverly. CHAPTER TWELVE Riker stood before the table in the observation lounge. *His* team had brought him quick results. Data began the briefing. "Sir, I ran a complete memory scan on our sensors and found two unusual readings around the time of the explosion..." "Continue, Mr. Data." "Approximately twenty seconds prior to the explosion, there was an energy surge inside the medical facility. This surge would be consistent with the energy from a transporter beam. This same surge occurred again, a fraction of a second before the explosion occurred; however, the second surge was stronger, suggesting that more than one item...or person...was transported." Riker leaned forward. "Are you saying that the Captain and Dr. Crusher were not in the building at the time of the explosion?!" "I cannot be certain, Commander; however, that is highly likely as no one else was in the building at the time of the explosion." "Then, they are alive..." Geordi almost jumped out of seat. "Sir, I believe we may be able to find them!" "Explain, Mr. La Forge..." Riker ordered. "I collected the information you requested and then ran a cross check against the data retrieved by Worf. There was one freighter that came up on each list. A ship with Andorian registry arrived on Rubatia five days ago. Normal procedure on Rubatia requires that all imported goods be itemized and logged with officials at the landing site. For some unknown reason, the record of this freighter's cargo was 'lost.' That same freighter left orbit approximately one minute after the explosion." "Its destination?" queried Riker. "Unknown. But, we do know the coordinates where it reached warp speed and we should be able to track its warp signature if we act immediately." Data tilted his head as he made calculations. "Sir, that class of freighter has a maximum capacity of Warp Two. Assuming that the freighter has maintained that speed, we should be able to overtake it in three hours and twelve minutes at Warp Five." Riker straightened and pulled on his jersey. "Make it so!" [to be continued...] Path: tivoli.tivoli.com!geraldo.cc.utexas.edu!cs.utexas.edu!swrinde!howland.reston.ans.net!news-e1a.megaweb.com!newstf01.news.aol.com!newsbf02.news.aol.com!not-for-mail From: mabtng@aol.com (MABTNG) Newsgroups: alt.startrek.creative Subject: NEW TNG STORY: Great Minds...(13-15) Date: 13 May 1995 09:01:17 -0400 Organization: America Online, Inc. (1-800-827-6364) Lines: 185 Sender: root@newsbf02.news.aol.com Message-ID: <3p2ait$h8d@newsbf02.news.aol.com> Reply-To: mabtng@aol.com (MABTNG) NNTP-Posting-Host: newsbf02.mail.aol.com Xref: tivoli.tivoli.com alt.startrek.creative:10315 More of this Picard/Crusher adventure... DISCLAIMER: PARAMOUNT OWNS EVERYONE AND EVERYTHING IN THIS STORY. ONLY THE STORY IS MINE. IT IS NOT INTENDED FOR COMMERCIAL REPRODUCTION. FEEL FREE TO PASS IT ALONG TO YOUR FRIENDS, BUT PLEASE LEAVE MY NAME AND THIS MESSAGE ATTACHED. GREAT MINDS... CHAPTER THIRTEEN Gul Madred inched toward Beverly Crusher. Picard could feel her overwhelming sense of vulnerability...her arms bound above her head. There was no way for her take any defensive action. Gul Madred slowly lifted his right hand from the shadows by his side. Picard could at last see what he held. Gul Madred carefully examined the phaser as he "carelessly" pointed it at Beverly. "You know, I never was very good at operating these things." He turned to Picard. "Let's see...this is how you control the settings, is it not?...I certainly wouldn't want to hit the wrong button. Perhaps you could help me, Captain." He held the phaser in front of Picard's face. "Did I get that right? I want the lowest setting...nothing fatal..yet..." Picard remained silent. "Now, Captain, I suggest you help me...we wouldn't want an unfortunate accident, would we?" *Jean-Luc...tell him...* He felt her fear...but it was not for herself...it was for him. Picard looked at the phaser again and reluctantly nodded at Gul Madred. "Thank you, Captain." Gul Madred immediately raised the phaser and fired at Beverly. Picard jumped as the phaser beam seared into her right leg, slowly burning the flesh. He felt each jolt as the beam traveled across her thigh. Picard cried out and frantically tried to pull his hands from the device that held him to the post. Beverly, however, remained completely silent. The only hint of the pain she felt was in her rapid breathing. Her mind suddenly locked around his. *Don't give him the satisfaction, Jean-Luc. I'm prepared to die...but not while that smile is on his face.* Picard closed his eyes and stilled himself. He focused only on Beverly. Gul Madred shut the phaser off. "Oh, my, Doctor. Such willpower. I am impressed. After the success of our last 'encounter' I had really been looking forward to hearing your 'voice' again." "What do you want, Gul Madred?" Picard's voice was hoarse. Gul Madred pulled up a chair and sat between Picard and Crusher, forming a sick triangle where he could read every expression on their faces. "Oh, it's a very simple matter of repayment." His face darkened. "You see, after our meetings, I..how shall I put it?...I lost my 'influence' in the circles of the Cardassian government. My years of service were repaid with banishment...my wealth, my reputation...my family...they saw to it that I was stripped of everything. Picard, do you remember my daughter? Such a beautiful child, filled with curiosity. We used to sit for hours, discussing her hopes and dreams. She adored me, Picard. And they took her from me...they convinced her that I was a criminal...Me, a hero of Cardassia! ...So you see, Captain...before you die...you will experience what you inflicted upon me...And, I assure you, this is strictly personal." Gul Madred's rage was now plainly expressed on his face. He stood, knocking his chair over. He raised the phaser and fired. CHAPTER FOURTEEN Will Riker was poised on the edge of captain's chair as the Enterprise approached the Andorian freighter. Data was rapidly moving his fingers across the controls before him. "Sir, there are no human life signs aboard the freighter." "Then, where the hell are they?" Riker muttered to himself. Worf lifted his head from his station. "Commander, the freighter has raised its shields." "Hail them, Mr. Worf." After a moment, the face of the Andorian captain appeared on the viewscreen. "What is the meaning of this?" he demanded. Riker stood. "This is Commander William Riker of the Federation Starship Enterprise. We demand to know what you have done with our Captain and Doctor." "I do not know what you are talking about, human. This is an outrage!.." Deanna motioned to Worf, who immediately cut the link with the Andorian. "Commander, he is lying. He knows exactly where they are." Riker nodded and Worf restored the link. "Captain, you will lower your shields and prepare to be boarded." "And if I refuse?" Riker turned. "Mr. Worf..." Worf fired at the freighter. "Sir, their shields have collapsed." Riker turned to face the Andorian, who was now obviously impressed by the lengths the Enterprise would go to get answers. "Commander, there is, uh, no reason, we cannot work something out..." "I want answers now! Where are our crew members?!" "But,..." "Mr. Worf..." Riker motioned to his security chief. "NO! Wait! Obviously there has been a misunderstanding. We had no idea that your crew members were taken unwillingly..." "Go on," ordered Riker. "We were paid by a Cardassian envoy to transport the man and woman to a small outpost on Veridian II. I assure you, if I had known..." Deanna nodded to Riker. The Andorian was telling the truth about the location. "Very well, captain. I'm sure you will understand our next actions. Riker out." He motioned to Worf. Worf quickly fired at the systems on the freighter. "Sir, communications and all warp and navigational systems have been rendered inoperable. Life support is undamaged." "Excellent, Mr. Worf. Send out a message to Starfleet to have a ship pick them up.....Mr. Data, set course for Veridian II, Warp Five." CHAPTER FIFTEEN Gul Madred unlocked Beverly's hands and she fell to the floor, her body limp and covered with the marks from his "experimentation" with the various phaser settings. Picard was covered with sweat, his body ached from each point where Gul Madred had impacted Beverly. His exhausted mind reached out to her. *Beverly, stay with me...Beverly!* *I'm here...* The link was distant. They were too tired to put together any more meaningful words. They could only repeat each other's name. Gul Madred smiled as he noted Beverly's faint life signs. "Now, Doctor, don't leave us yet...you wouldn't want to miss the second act!" He left her on the floor and walked over to his desk. He placed the phaser down and returned to Picard. He removed a second device from his pocket...a device that was very familiar to Picard. He attached it to Picard's back. *No!* Beverly struggled to look up as she heard him cry out. She was thrown back as the first jolt rippled through Picard's body. *Why doesn't he just get this over with, Jean-Luc?* She opened her eyes and glanced around the room. She forced herself to maintain her focus even as another pain gripped her chest as Gul Madred continued to "play" with his new device. Then, she saw it. *Jean-Luc, hold on. I have an idea...* *What...* his thought was interrupted by another jolt from the device. Gul Madred was now intently leaning over Picard, savoring every moment. He paid no attention to Beverly...her battered body would be useless. *Jean-Luc...concentrate...I need you right now!* Picard closed his eyes and sent every remnant of his strength to her in one moment. Beverly did not trust her legs. She took a breath and rolled quickly to the desk. She reached for Picard's strength and pulled herself up to the desk. Gul Madred spun around...but he was too late. He saw the phaser in her hand. "Now, Doctor..." He was cut off by the blast that hit him squarely in the chest. Gul Madred flew across the room and landed on his back. She could not tell if he was dead or just unconscious..but he wasn't moving. Beverly dropped to the floor and pulled herself over to Jean-Luc. *This might hurt a bit...* He nodded. Beverly aimed the phaser at the lock and fired. The bindings fell to the floor with a loud clang. She turned his body and removed the device from his back. Jean-Luc lifted his heavy arms and draped them around Beverly. *Jean-Luc, we have to get out of here...I need your help.* *Don't worry about me...let's go.* Jean-Luc grabbed the post and pulled himself up, every muscle in his body screaming. He looked down at Beverly and knew she would never be able to walk. Her efforts had expended everything she had and her injuries from the phaser were too severe. They needed time...and a diversion. *Yes, that's it!* *What, Jean-Luc...* He took the phaser from Beverly's hand and began to punch the keys on its control panel. *You're going to make it overload?* *Yes...it's done...we've got about one minute...* *Go, Jean-Luc...I can't...* *Oh, yes, you can....* Jean-Luc erased everything from his mind and concentrated on the three words that had seen them through this ordeal... He bent over and picked her up in his arms. She went completely limp as he adjusted to her weight against him. *Beverly?* There was no answer...but there was no time to contemplate her condition. He staggered to the door and it opened before him. He glanced down the corridors...they were empty...but he heard footsteps...and they were running toward him. He quickly plunged into the hall and ran as fast as he could. He heard the shouts behind him and felt the first phaser blast swim past his head. A second later, he was lifted off his feet by a gust of wind. [TO BE CONTINUED....] M.A. Boyd Path: tivoli.tivoli.com!geraldo.cc.utexas.edu!cs.utexas.edu!howland.reston.ans.net!news-e1a.megaweb.com!newstf01.news.aol.com!newsbf02.news.aol.com!not-for-mail From: mabtng@aol.com (MABTNG) Newsgroups: alt.startrek.creative Subject: NEW TNG STORY: Great Minds...(16-END) Date: 13 May 1995 09:01:18 -0400 Organization: America Online, Inc. (1-800-827-6364) Lines: 376 Sender: root@newsbf02.news.aol.com Message-ID: <3p2aiu$h8f@newsbf02.news.aol.com> Reply-To: mabtng@aol.com (MABTNG) NNTP-Posting-Host: newsbf02.mail.aol.com Xref: tivoli.tivoli.com alt.startrek.creative:10316 And, now, the ending to this Picard/Crusher tale... DISCLAIMER: PARAMOUNT OWNS EVERYONE AND EVERYTHING IN THIS STORY. ONLY THE STORY IS MINE. IT IS NOT INTENDED FOR COMMERCIAL REPRODUCTION. FEEL FREE TO PASS IT ALONG TO YOUR FRIENDS, BUT PLEASE LEAVE MY NAME AND THIS MESSAGE ATTACHED. GREAT MINDS... CHAPTER SIXTEEN The Enterprise dropped out of warp as it approached Veridian II. Riker and Troi sat in their chairs, eyes fixed on the viewscreen in front of them. "Sir, I am scanning the planet now... I have located the outpost...and there is some sort of disturbance..." "What type of disturbance, Mr. Worf?" "There has been an explosion at the outpost, sir." Data quickly processed the incoming information. "Commander, our scanners are picking up signature traces from a Federation phaser. From the high readings of that signature, I would speculate that the phaser was the cause of the explosion." Riker glanced at Deanna as he quickly stood. "Mr. Worf, you're with me. Mr. Data, you have the bridge." "Aye, sir." Picard opened his eyes. He took a deep breath and felt a weight against his chest. He looked down. *Beverly!* Her body was draped across him. She was completely still. He pushed himself up to a seated position and gently cradled her in his arms. He could feel that she was alive, but he could not maintain a coherent link with her. She did not respond to any of his thoughts. Her "robe" had fallen open, revealing the burn marks across her side. His eyes moved to her arms and legs...he was amazed at her strength. Even though he had heard her thoughts and felt the pain inflicted on her, he still had had no idea... He gently pulled the robe around her, hoping that by covering the marks, they would somehow simply disappear. Picard was determined to get help. He moved to stand, but fell back as the dizziness engulfed him. He leaned back to rest, closing his eyes. And then, Jean-Luc Picard was covered by darkness, losing all awareness of the world around him. The away team appeared in front of the burning remains of the main outpost facility. Worf quickly scanned the area. "Commander, I am picking up life signs from within the building." "Let's move, people." Their small army entered the ruins, led by Riker and Worf. As they headed down the remains of a corridor, they came across the bodies of several of the mercenary guards. The readings on Worf's tricorder became stronger as they proceeded. "Over here, Commander!" Riker and the rest of the team rushed forward. It took a moment for Will Riker to find his voice as he stared at the battered figures of his friends. "What the hell happened here?" he muttered. CHAPTER SEVENTEEN Picard and Crusher lay side by side in Sick Bay. Counselor Troi had informed Dr. Selar of their implants and the need for them to remain together. Jean-Luc was dimly aware of the activity around him. Hazy faces appeared above him, talking...*to him?* All of his senses came together to focus on one thing...staying in contact with Beverly. The visions from her unconscious mind swirled around him: memories of a small red-headed girl running into her grandmother's arms; the intense pain and then relief and joy of Wesley's birth; Jack Crusher, standing before her in his uniform, preparing to leave on his last voyage aboard the Stargazer; walking with the *ever-professional* Captain down the long corridor toward the morgue; her arrival on the Enterprise; their first reunion; their first dance together; their first kiss; their first night together. All of her memories became a part of him. Dr. Selar glanced up from her work and noted the arrival of Commander Riker and Counselor Troi. She placed her tricorder on a table nearby and approached them. "Commander, Counselor. I must speak with you about the conditions of Captain Picard and Dr. Crusher." She then headed toward the office. Riker and Troi followed her. "What do you mean, 'there is a problem'?" demanded Riker. Dr. Selar continued her monotone report. "Sir, in order for Captain Picard and Dr. Crusher to survive, we must remove the implants; however, because of their location and modifications made from the original Kesprytt devices, their memories will also be affected." "How much of their memories?" Riker was becoming annoyed by this question and answer session. "It is impossible to predict. It could destroy their memories of the past hour, day...or perhaps their entire lives; however, without the surgery, they will most definitely not survive." "Is there any other way..." "No, Commander." Riker raised his chin. "Then, do it." Dr. Selar exited, leaving Deanna and Will alone. Deanna sensed his fear...fear that he had made the wrong decision. She moved close to him. "Will, there is no other choice. Whatever happens, this is not your fault. In fact, if it hadn't been for you, they wouldn't have had a chance at all." "Thank you, Deanna. I hope this day ends soon." The weariness was tracking its way across his face. "Will, you need some rest. I'll stay here and let you know as soon as there is some news." "No, thanks. We *both* need rest...but I can't leave until this is over." Deanna grasped his hand and gave it a gentle squeeze. "I know." CHAPTER EIGHTEEN Dr. Selar exited the surgery suite and proceeded toward Dr. Crusher's office, which was now a waiting room. The removal of the implants had taken considerably longer than she had anticipated. She entered the office to brief Commander Riker and Counselor Troi. Riker and Troi stood, the anxiety from the long wait clearly written on their faces. "Well, Doctor, how did it go?" Riker inquired. "The procedure was more complicated than I expected. While Captain Picard suffered few obvious external injuries, the implants apparently caused a significant amount of damage..." "What do you mean?" Deanna interjected. "It was most interesting. The implants appear to transmit more than just thoughts. For each place Dr. Crusher was injured by a phaser blast, the Captain had some form of tissue damage in the exact same area of his body. While the damage was not as severe as that suffered by Dr. Crusher, I was concerned that there could be unforeseen physical complications from the removal of the implants. For that reason, we had to proceed slowly, measuring their reactions at each stage of the procedure." "But, were you successful?" Riker was getting impatient. "Yes, Commander...with time and rest, they should be fine...physically. Of course, Dr. Crusher will require several more treatments to repair all of the damaged tissue and to remove the scars that will develop, but I do not believe there will be any complications in that area. As for any psychological damage...I leave that area to you, Counselor." Deanna nodded and finally let out the breath that she had been holding in for nearly five hours. "Thank you, Dr. Selar." Riker sat behind the desk as Dr. Selar returned to the recovery room to check on her patients. "So, now we sit and wait..." Riker exhaled. A very loud buzzing hum filled the air...at least, that is how it sounded to Jean-Luc Picard. *What is that infernal noise?* With some concentration, he was able to open his eyes. The blurry images began to take form as the buzzing evolved into voices. There was a face above him. *Counselor Troi.* "Captain,...how are you feeling?" Her gentle accent was a refreshing change from the clatter that filled the room around him...*Sick Bay?* He was too weak to sit up and survey his surroundings properly. "Counselor?" "You're going to be fine, sir. The disorientation will pass." Deanna was relieved to hear that he recognized her. Perhaps, his memory had not been severely affected. "Do you remember what happened, Captain?" He searched his mind. It was jumbled with fragments...bits and pieces he slowly reconstructed. "I was...Yes, I remember. Dr. Crusher just left for the medical conference on...Mylon III. I was on the bridge...yes, we were on our way to Trita IV. But, why am I here?" Deanna frowned. For the Captain, the past three months had just vanished. She would have to proceed carefully. "Captain, you were injured in an explosion..." "On board the Enterprise?" "No, sir. You were on a planet. We'll discuss this more when you feel better. Right now, you should rest and get your strength back." Picard looked around Sick Bay and saw Dr. Selar going about her various duties. "Has Dr. Crusher returned from the conference?" Deanna was pained by the Captain's persistent questioning. He wasn't going to make this easy for her. "Yes, sir." "Would you tell her I'd like to speak with her?" "Captain...Beverly was with you on the planet..." "Where is she?" Picard demanded. "She sustained serious injuries, but she is going to be okay..." "I should go see her.." Picard tried to move, but he was too weak. "Captain, Beverly is still unconscious. I will let you know as soon as you can see her. In the meantime, you must rest. When you wake up, we can discuss all of this in detail." "All right, Counselor." Picard was confused by everything Deanna had told him. *How could Beverly have been with me when she left for Mylon III?* But, he was too exhausted to think about it anymore. He relaxed his tense muscles and fell back into a deep sleep. CHAPTER NINETEEN Beverly Crusher awoke to the face of her friend, Lt. Alyssa Ogawa. As her eyes became accustomed to the lighting, she noticed the dark patch over Alyssa's right eye. Despite her weakness, she reached out to her best nurse. "Alyssa, what happened to your eye?" "It was a small accident...I'm fine. Right now, I'm more concerned about you. How do you feel?" "Sore..." she replied, the tiredness showing in her face. "What happened? Why am I in Sick Bay?" Deanna Troi had prepared Alyssa for Beverly's possible memory loss. "There was an explosion. You...and the Captain...were injured in the blast." "An explosion?...Where is Jean-Luc?" "Don't worry, Doctor. The Captain is fine. In fact, he'll be released from Sick Bay later today." Beverly was still confused, but obviously relieved. She moved her arm to her face and froze when she saw the burns still evident on her forearm. Alyssa spoke before Beverly could question her. "I'm going to contact Counselor Troi. She wanted to know the minute you woke up." Within minutes, Deanna entered the intensive care section of Sick Bay. She smiled as Beverly saw her approach. "Beverly, it's good to see you with us again..." While Beverly was happy to see her friend, she wanted answers. "Deanna, what happened? I can't remember...and no one will tell me." Deanna took Beverly's hand. She hoped this would be easier than the briefing she had with the Captain. "Beverly, it's a long story..." Deanna proceeded to give Beverly the same abbreviated version of events that she had given the Captain. "...and we were very relieved when Dr. Selar was able to take you out of the stasis unit this morning. She believes that all of the scars will be eradicated after three or four treatments." Deanna ended her recitation and was finally able to take the deep breath she had needed. Beverly was in shock. "So, Deanna, you're telling me that the last three months of my life are...simply gone?" "Yes, Beverly. It's very unlikely that you will ever recall what happened." She let her words sink in for a moment before she continued. "But, Beverly, you and the Captain are alive! I've already suggested to Captain Picard that he read the ship's logs for the time you've 'lost,' and I'm going to give you the same advice...as soon as you are released. In the meantime, it's so wonderful to be able to talk to you again..." Deanna stopped, tears forming in her dark eyes. Beverly squeezed her hand.. "We thought you both were dead..." CHAPTER TWENTY They ate their ritual breakfast in silence. The only sound in the room was the occasional clink of a cup against its saucer. It had been three days since Beverly was released from Sick Bay. During this time, they had discovered that the implants had had one last effect on them. Amazingly, their memories had been so linked that they were erased to the exact same moment in the past. They had used their days to read the official logs for the past three months, but there were pieces missing...pieces that they both sensed were very important. Jean-Luc looked across the table at his companion as she sipped her coffee, her eyes directed toward him, but not at him. He could not take this uncomfortable wedge that had come between him and his best friend anymore. He threw his napkin down on the table and stood up. "Beverly, I can't stand this!" She was startled by his voice. "I know, Jean-Luc." "We have to talk about this...I feel like someone just reached in and took out the most important part of my life...and every time I think I am about to remember what was lost, I reach out to grab it and it vanishes before my fingertips!" Beverly stood from the table and crossed over to the sofa. She sat, deep in thought. After a few moments of silence, she turned to Jean-Luc. "I know exactly what you mean, Jean-Luc. Wherever I am on the ship, in Sick Bay...or just walking down the corridors, I can sense crew members staring at me...and they all have this wistful look of *pity* on their faces. I keep telling myself that I'm imagining it, but then I run into Deanna or Will...and they project this sense of *loss.* I don't know, maybe I'm just going crazy." Picard moved to the sofa and sat beside her. Suddenly, his face brightened with an idea. "What is it, Jean-Luc?" "Beverly, I know that we have both been over the official logs...but have you had time to review your personal logs?" "I haven't had time yet...I've been too busy trying to catch up in Sick Bay..." "And I've been too busy with ship's business. Perhaps we might find something there." Picard moved to his computer terminal and Beverly quickly followed him. She leaned over his shoulder as he sat before the screen. He had soon called up his personal logs, starting with the date that Beverly had left for Mylon III. Unfortunately, Jean-Luc had a habit of retaining his formal manner in each of his personal entries. The only clue they found was in reference to a "radical" approach that Counselor Troi and Commander Riker had used to treat him and "Dr. Crusher." Jean-Luc turned to Beverly and was pleasantly surprised to find that her face was almost resting on his shoulder. He smiled sheepishly as he inhaled the fragrance of her hair. "What is it, Jean-Luc?" "I'm sorry...um, my logs seem a little inadequate to solve this mystery...perhaps we'll have more luck with yours." They changed places and Beverly called up her personal log. She noticed how Jean-Luc was leaning over her, his breath occasionally brushing her ear. It was *very* distracting. As the first entry appeared, she was suddenly embarrassed. She knew how *detailed* she got sometimes in her entries. She looked at Jean-Luc and he stepped back slightly, sensing that she might want some privacy to *edit* some of the entries. Beverly skipped forward to the first entry made after their *radical* treatment. As she read, her eyes grew very large. Her heart began to race and her stomach was suddenly very light. "What is it, Beverly? Did you find something?" She continued to stare at the screen. "I guess you might say that..." She hesitated for a moment. *Should I really let him read this?* She slowly stood and motioned for Jean-Luc to read the screen. She could not bring herself to watch his reaction, so she returned to her seat on the sofa. She brought her knees up underneath her...wanting to curl into a small ball. Jean-Luc sat before the screen. He raised his eyebrow slightly. After a few moments, he turned the screen away. He walked over to her and sat down beside her. Beverly was not sure how she should react when he put his hand on hers. "So, I guess we have part of our answer." "Yes, Jean-Luc. I guess we do." His hand slowly moved up her arm and came to rest on her cheek. She closed her eyes, enjoying his soft touch. "And, I guess we know what the result was..." she whispered, the sadness deepening her voice. "Yes, Beverly. I guess we do." "So, I suppose the question is, what do we do now?" Picard grasped both of her hands and held them tightly. Beverly's heart stopped as she looked into his eyes...they had never been so clear. "Beverly...the only answer I have is this...I will not let Gul Madred take anything else away from me." A fire flashed in her eyes as the ever-defiant Beverly Crusher chose her response to his *challenge.* "You know, Jean-Luc. I do remember one thing that I haven't discussed with you." She looked into his face, watching its every movement. "It's the last memory I have, in fact. I was getting ready to leave for the medical conference..." Jean-Luc leaned forward and interrupted her with his lips. It was a tender kiss that wanted to be more. He pulled back and whispered to her, "Is that what you remember?" She smiled. "Actually, if my memory serves me, it was more like this..." She wrapped her arms around him and pulled him to her. Their lips met and soon, the outside world did not exist. Beverly laid back and Jean-Luc willingly followed her lead. She felt his laughter on her lips. "Yes, Doctor. You're absolutely right...thank you for jogging my memory." "My pleasure, Captain." Jean-Luc smiled as he gazed into her mischievous eyes. He ran his hand through her hair as he slowly bent down to resume what they had started. His comm badge suddenly chirped to life. "Riker to Captain Picard." "Merde," muttered Beverly into his shoulder. Jean-Luc rolled his eyes. "Riker to Captain Picard." He slapped his comm badge...hard. "Go ahead, Number One." "I have those reports you wanted, sir. They are just waiting for your approval." "Thank you, Commander. I will get to them shortly; however, right now, I am *resting.* "Understood, sir." Riker's voice a sounded a tad bit curious, but, right now, there were two people who could care less about his tone. Beverly moved both of her hands behind his neck and pulled him down to her, renewing their interrupted passion. "Lt. Vargas to Dr. Crusher." "Oh, bloody hell!" exclaimed Jean-Luc. She slapped her comm badge...hard. "Go ahead, Lieutenant." "You said you wanted to be notified when it was time for Lt. Ogawa's last treatment..." Beverly sighed. "Thank you, Lieutenant. I'm on my way." She gave Jean-Luc an apologetic look. He stood and helped Beverly up from the couch. He couldn't resist pulling her in for one last kiss. "Jean-Luc...I have to go!" "Have dinner with me tonight...here?" He wouldn't release her from his grasp until she answered. She kissed him again, her hands caressing his back. "I'll take that as a 'yes'?" She smiled. "I think that would be wise, Captain. We have a lot of *memories* to revive." He slowly released her and she reluctantly headed for the door. With one last promising glance over her shoulder, she was gone. Jean-Luc Picard smiled to himself. One thing was certain, his new life was never going to be boring. THE END