#Shran x oc | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

starryeyes2000 · 3 years ago

Text

Retribution: A Curiously Time New Friend

Previous Chapter | Next Chapter | Masterlist

Pairing: Christopher Pike x OC

Rating: Mature

Word Count: 2.7k

Summary: Years ago, Lieutenant Christopher Pike and his team’s classified mission failed changing the course of two peoples – the Estess whose planet was strategically important to the Federation and the deeply spiritual Gileseians whose out of the way home was location and resource poor. The price for his involvment will be steep and the debt is about to be called in.

This story takes place after the Season 2 finale. Control was defeated and all the events of Season 2 occurred except for Discovery travelling into the future.

ooooo

Four Days Later

Estess IV

Minister Drey strode angrily towards their guests’ quarters as quaking aides scurried out of his way. “Fools and incompetents,” he hissed. “How difficult is it to secure and eliminate one defenseless woman? This is what happens when you delegate a vital task to mercenaries for hire and a third-rate mystic with a messianic complex.”

He called out to one aide who had not vanished quickly enough. “Find my surgeon general. Tell her to be in my office in 15 minutes.”

It is time to eliminate the middlemen, he thought as he rang the door chime. I will deal with Christopher Pike directly myself.

A man in a red uniform answered the door. After the thwarted kidnapping of one of its officers and the murder of Ambassador Shran, Starfleet Command and the diplomatic service stepped up security around anyone ranked captain and above as well as all the ambassadors.

Minster Drey glared at the security officer who returned the stare without a hint of being cowed. Frustrated at being delayed by this insignificant subordinate Drey said pleasantly, “May I see Ambassador April? I realize our talks for entry into the Federation have halted due to the … unfortunate incident. Yet I would like to extend my personal as well as my government’s sympathies and offer any small assistance.”

After consideration, the guard stepped aside. “Follow me.” Ushering the Estess Prime Minister into the Ambassador’s office, he and a colleague remained on each side of the door.

Drey smiled and extended his hand to Robert April. “I would like to offer my deepest sympathizes, personal as well as official on behalf of my government for the loss of the legendary Ambassador Shran as well as for the injured passengers and crew of the transport.”

Bob April accepted the handshake thinking, you always would like to, but you never do, do you?

Drey continued, “It is truly regrettable that such violence still exists in this day and time. I realize we are a small and insignificant planetary system. And that any service we can offer is but a token. Yet I hope this offer is a symbol of our earnestness and good faith in this matter.”

April’s wife Sarah, who was standing behind Drey, rolled her eyes. She had taken an instant dislike to the minister. Bob’s own dislike was not far behind. Simply put he did not trust the man and Bob listened to his instincts.

The Estess system was at a crossroads bordering the territories claimed by the Klingons and Tholians as well as numerous burgeoning shipping routes. Bob’s bosses were adamant Estess be admitted to the Federation. Having now met the Estess people, Bob was unconvinced the alliance was wise or in the Federation’s long-term interests. Ambassador Shran’s death provided a sad but useful excuse to slow down its entry negotiations.

“I, and my government, accept your condolences and appreciate your offer. Currently no additional assistance is needed but should that change we will welcome your help,” Bob replied graciously.

“Is there any further information on the identities or motives of those thugs?” Drey asked schooling his expression into a practiced meld of shock and concern. “Our news services are so out of the way we only receive second-hand reports.”

“I know nothing more than what you read in the wires,” Bob answered. He waited patiently for Drey to make the next move.

Drey concluded April either did not know more than he or would not share it. No matter, these rooms were well bugged. “Then I will not keep you from your duties any longer and I must return to mine. You continue to be our honored guests and my staff is as your disposal.”

After Drey was escorted out, Bob looked at his aide who replied, “You can speak freely sir. We performed a routine sweep for listening devices this morning.”

“Thank you. Just for giggles please ensure the staff is ready to leave at a moment’s notice. And give us the room.”

When Bob and Sarah were alone she said in her usual blunt manner, “Drey is an odious little man. Have you heard from Chris yet?”

His expression turned to worry, “No. Enterprise has gone silent for system and weapon drills. I haven’t sent a hail for two days.”

“Why? We don’t even know if Aalin is OK.”

“Drills my ass. Chris was my first officer for five years. I trained him. I know him. If he’s locked down Enterprise, there is a reason and I’m not going to tip his hand.”

ooooo

Risa

Tilly sat slumped at the bar in her hotel on Risa looking dejected and nursing her colorful drink. Not even an authentic Risian mai tai cheered her. They had planned the perfect vacation and then everything went wrong. No wrong wasn’t the right word, everything went different. It felt like things were changing and she pushed that feeling down, as deep as she could, because it not only made her sad, but it also frightened her a little. After everything the Discovery crew endured and bonded over – the war, the mirror universe, the battles to eliminate Control, she assumed they would always serve together. Now her friends were being tugged in new directions.

Hugh and Paul had settled on Vulcan. Paul teaching at the Vulcan Science Academy where he continued researching the mycelial network and building a non-human navigation interface for the spore drive. Until then the spore drive was decommissioned and mothballed. Hugh split his time between a teaching hospital and studying with the Vulcan mystics who were guiding his journey to make peace with his death, unique rebirth, and renewed life.

Dr. Tracy Pollard and Commander Reno transferred to Enterprise where preparations were underway for the ship’s next deep space mission. Commander Nhan also resumed her regular assignment as Deputy Security Chief on Enterprise.

Keyla Detmer elected to skip their Risian vacation when offered the opportunity to study and test for her constitution class pilot certification. She would be staying on Enterprise another eight weeks.

Joann Owo left for Earth yesterday after her sister gave birth to twins three weeks early.

Tilly was pleased that Saru was promoted to Captain and given command of Discovery with Michael as his First Officer. Discovery would, finally, assume her mission as a science vessel. She had had a secret hope Captain Pike would remain on Discovery permanently though admitted to herself that was never a possibility. His life was on the Enterprise. And as happy as she was for Michael getting the chance to again serve as a first officer, she was anxious about it. Would their friendship change? At the very least they would no longer be roommates and Tilly would miss that a lot.

Then there was the happy reason she was sitting alone and feeling miserable. Their first night on Risa Gen Rhys proposed to Bonnie O’Malley and she accepted. They continued to include Tilly in activities and invite her to meals, but she hated being a third wheel. Finding private time was a challenge when serving on a starship and they deserved to enjoy it while they could.

“I’ve been to Risa many times and I have never seen anyone here look so wretched. Certainly not when such an attractive man is trying to flirt with her. My god, you could grate chocolate on his abs. And you should do it … and him.”

“Excuse me?” Tilly asked only now noticing the woman who sat down beside her a few minutes ago.

“Oh, sorry. My friends constantly scold me for blurting out whatever I am thinking at any moment. But I think it’s refreshing. And interesting. What a boring galaxy this would be if we censor everythingwe say.”

The woman held out her hand. “I’m Emily, well no one can ever pronounce my last name so just call me Emily or Emily R.” The tall, dark-headed woman continued, “You have the most beautiful alabaster skin, but you are using the wrong makeup colors.” She laughed. “My friends also chide me for my bluntness. But I know what I am talking about, I own a cosmetics company.”

It wasn’t often Tilly couldn’t get a word in edgewise, yet Emily went on without drawing breath, “But we can talk more about that and the need to add some highlights to your hair another day. You really are a strikingly attractive woman.”

“Are you hitting on me?” Tilly asked tentatively.

Emily laughed again, an alto-pitched vivacious, joyful laugh. “No, but if I ever decide to go in another direction I would be tempted to. But that tall, blonde Adonis across the room is. The one with the rock-solid abs. I am also assuming/hoping he has a sexy accent. Maybe Australian? I love those.”

“I thought he was flirting with the blonde at the table to the left.”

“Nope, with you. At least give the guy a smile.”

Tilly tried to deflect by changing the subject. Emily had to be wrong, guys like that were never interested in her. “Are you here on vacation?”

“Yes. Sampling the pleasures of Risa. I needed to destress before our fall product launch. And decide whether to buy a fashion design company I have my eye on. The scenery and entertainment are conducive for making good decisions. But I needed a night off. I mean, just how much Jamaharon can a girl take in a week?”

Tilly, looking unsure, raised her shoulders slightly as if saying ‘I don’t know’.

“Exactly.” Emily finished.

“I’m Sylvia Tilly. Though everyone calls me Tilly because I hate my first name.”

“Very well Tilly. Nice to meet you. If you hate your first name, why not give yourself another one? You shouldn’t be stuck with something you don’t care for and had no say about.”

Tilly’s brow creased. “I never thought about it, and everyone always called me Tilly anyway or even worse, Silly Tilly.”

“Ugh. That’s horrid and doesn’t suit you at all. With all those gorgeous curves you look like you stepped out of an Italian renaissance painting. Voluptuous in the best connotations of the word. So, you should have a name like Antonia or Giovanna, something sultry and romantic.” Emily gestured dramatically as she spoke and then she sighed. “I’ve always dreamed of having sexy curves.”

Tilly looked astonished. “But you are tall and model-thin!”

“Another description would be awkward giraffe. And I am all angles. Men like soft curves and well, they want to bury themselves in your chest.” She shook her head and laughed again as she waved at Tilly’s breasts, “I am happy with my physical appearance, but I truly am envious of that.”

“That hasn’t been my experience.”

“Then it is time to change it. I am having a delightful time getting to know you, but you need a different type of company tonight. Be bold, go say hello to Adonis over there. No pressure because this is vacation, you never have to see him again and what happens on Risa stays on Risa.” Emily grinned, “Oh, how I love a cliché! Go play. Hey that rhymes! I’ll treat you to brunch tomorrow and we can gossip about your date. And I will tell you of the time I experienced Jamaharon in San Francisco. Deal?”

Tilly looked thoughtful. “My former Captain used to tell me to be bold. And brave.”

“Then he or she is smart. Deal?”

“Deal” Tilly replied with a big smile.

The Next Morning

Emily waved as Tilly entered the restaurant and headed for the table. “I ordered champagne to get us started. Or would you prefer something else?”

“Champagne is great, thanks.”

“What would you like to eat?” Emily asked as she perused the menu. “I hear the omelets are outstanding. And the pastries.”

“I usually have an egg white burrito with black beans.”

Emily refilled her champagne glass and frowned. “That sounds horrid.”

“My roommate, well former roommate, suggested it, well really she ordered it. She’s kind of bossy. And she was trying to help.”

“But it’s not done – eating an egg white anything on vacation. Especially on Risa. It’s a pleasure planet. Take pleasure in everything. This morning it will be food and drink.” Emily signaled the waiter, “Bring us one of everything. And for goodness’s sake, the salads should be served between the entrees and pastries. I cannot imagine why you have adopted the barbaric custom of eating a salad first in a meal. Chill two more bottles of champagne. And I need an expresso.”

“Me too,” Tilly chimed in feeling overwhelmed.

“So, were you bold and brave?” Emily asked as they continued their feast.

Tilly nodded, her head swimming a bit after her fourth glass of champagne. “It was a great 15 minutes, but his … repertoire was limited. As were his conversation skills. And he didn’t have an accent.”

Emily waved her hand, “Que sera sera, or as my mother says, ‘you have to go through a lot of mediocrity before experiencing genius’. The important thing is you took a chance. I have a feeling you spend most of your time studying and working. I bet no one ever beats you at homework.”

“You bet your ass.” Tilly replied, filters down. “Oh sorry.”

“For what?”

“Crude language?” Tilly said, unsure.

“Oh, I didn’t notice, but then I can swear like a sailor in 5 languages. It’s a handy thing to whip out during financial negotiations.”

“Last night you promised to tell me a tale of Jamaharon in San Francisco.”

“Indeed, I did.” She opened the third bottle of champagne. “A tale such as this requires bubbly. And speaking of asses, a fine one will be featured.”

Tilly eagerly held out her glass and started on a second chocolate croissant. “Where I work we have to wear uniforms and they are really well tailored especially in the rear and I love working in the back of the room which is the best viewing angle I love a man in uniform” Tilly managed to say without stopping for punctuation or drawing breath.

Emily edged the champagne bottle just out of Tilly’s reach. And the pastries, unsure if Tilly was experiencing an alcohol or sugar rush. “A few years ago, when I was starting my company, I spent a summer in San Francisco. Have you been to San Francisco?”

“Went to school there.” Tilly answered.

“Do you know the bakery The Rose Café? I promise this is relevant.”

“Yes.”

“Tried the brownies? The chocolate ones made from a secret recipe?” Emily asked.

“Oh my god, yes. Better than … definitely better than last night.”

Emily laughed. “Yes, often those brownies are. You should know I tend to go for the ‘rough around the edge’s types. Known as bad boys when I was younger, though now I no longer require them, nor want them, to have an arrest on their record. My mother is very pleased with my newfound maturity. Anyway, I met a handsome guy there, on medical leave. Poster boy type. Well built, athletic. And he wore a uniform. I thought, what the hell, I should try something new.”

“I have a thing for soldiers and musicians and soldiers.” Tilly said loudly.

Emily signaled the waiter to bring two coffees. “He had, well I guess still has, a fine ass. And the most heart-melting and heat-inducing dimples. Good thing too because he was terrible at flirting. Guess you don’t need to know how to flirt if you can flash those dimples.”

A thought beckoned at Tilly through her haze. Surely it couldn’t be? Should I tell her I am in Starfleet just in case? But I want to hear more!

Emily sighed. “It was a great summer. Pure fun. Neither of us wanted a long-term relationship; in the fall he’d go back to his ship, and I would go home to London. I called my mother after the first night we were together to tell her she was right, which she seldom is but loves to hear; I had experienced genius. Who knew starship captains have such a wide variety of skills? And that much endurance. Christopher Pike is that good. He is Rose Café brownie good. Jamaharon can happen anywhere.”

I knew it! I knew it, I knew it! Tilly thought triumphantly. Thank you, Universe for sharing that story with me! I promise I will be good and never, ever repeat it!

4 notes · View notes