Redirecting Energy

[tasha_yar]

It's been a few days since she was twelve. And Lucy thinks this place is boring.

The reports have been made and filed. Most of the reunions she sought out have happen. The most memorable one was pure chaos. Maybe she should have expected that?

No, you really don't expect to be twelve twice. Especially not while in the quarters of you best friend. Who got displaced between his bridge shift ending and entering his quarters. Who now has a daughter. Who collapsed in your arms earlier in the day.

Strength enough to bend par-steel, but likely held back by the Laws of Robotics, and she felt helpless.

Yar has always had a duty to the helpless. Even more than that, she's a sweet kid.

The buzzer to Lal's quarters chimes.

Comments

[usescontractions]

"I know. I would still like him even if he were not a Star-Lord. Same with Alex, he is my other friend. His story is interesting as well, and my father-- The father just before my current one--" The father situation is a little confusing when you think about it. But also not the focus. "Confirmed that Alex's story about his life up until the Enterprise is likely true, considering how he was found."

[tasha_yar]

...

...

...

"Alex the insane magic guy?!"

Lal. About your taste in men...

[usescontractions]

"Magic guy? He did not mention any magic." She's going to scan her past conversations, just to be sure.

[tasha_yar]

"Okay, there is AN Alex who apparently talks to version of himself, including some kind of -" Tasha puts her hand to her head. "Let's try, 'has a raven.'"

[usescontractions]

Frowning, she shakes her head. "No. I don't think he does."

[tasha_yar]

She flops a bit with relief. "Oh, thank goodness!" She shakes her head.

"There's...a lot of people on board to keep track of. Sorry."

[usescontractions]

"I think you might like him. He is a very resourceful person. He has already mastered a great deal when it comes to current technology."

[tasha_yar]

She takes a breath in. "Looking forward to meeting him." She is. Tasha's even willing to give him the benefit of Lal's good judgement.

That's when she starts questioning her own. Why am I this protective of her anyway? She's gnawing on her lip. Distantly, she wonders if Jean-Luc gets this way about Wesley.

Finally, she settles on a reason - dead, simple one. Lal - at this stage of her life - just...simply needs protecting. No other motives involved.

As that realization settles, a small smile plays across her lips.

[usescontractions]

Is it time to walk and talk now? Maybe. Lal is just going to try to casually guide them to the door.

"I will be sure to introduce you. Have you met anyone new yet?"