//------------------------------//
// Episode 8: New Officers, doubling fronts 
// Story: Star Trek Equestria: Reformatted: Wild Access 
// by Captain_Cosmos 
//------------------------------//

“Captain’s Log Stardate 32120627.1059. Of all the bloody things to happen today of all days, our most recently deployed subspace relay suffered a complete systems failure. We’ve backtracked in order to fix the relay but without it we can’t reliably make a subspace video call to the council. I hope they can buy us some time back home.”

“Of all the times this could happen, it has to happen NOW.” Norman lamented as he tried to reboot the system. “Ugh. Baker, you getting anything?” He asked.

“Nada.” Baker responded. “I’m gonna try reprogramming it. Re-adopt it into the network.”

Meanwhile, Proxima sat in her captain’s chair, gustied up in her dress uniform as Baker was also. She had her horn extended and lit. Beside her, Harmony watched with intrigue. “Might I inquire what you are doing Captain?” Harmony asked.

“I’m trying to get a Long Distance Scrying Spell to reach Federation Headquarters.” Proxima responded. “It would be the absolute longest distance in history, but we cannot miss this meeting.”

“Is a Scrying spell not merely a glorified security camera?” Harmony asked.

“Usually. But in special cases it can be used for two way communication.” Proxima responded. “I’m counting on Ambassador Starscout’s aide Alphabittle being there to act as a transceiver.”

“Ah.” Harmony said.

“Yeah.” Proxima responded, before she dimmed her horn, giving up after failing repeatedly. “Grah! I can’t get through.” She announced.

Sela, who was sitting on Proxima’s other side, also dressed up, patted Proxima’s back. “It was a solid and logical attempt to make captain.” She said. She hesitated for a moment, before she spoke up. “Captain, might we speak privately in your ready room for a moment?”

Proxima was about to answer, before Baker cut her off. “Yes!” She exclaimed. “Communication relay is back up and running!” She announced.

“Thank Faust!” Proxima responded as she got up. “We can talk later commander. Right now we have a meeting to get to. Baker, put out a call to Federation HQ and route it to Holodeck one. Then catch up with us.” Proxima said. “And tell the doctor we’re back in business. Cmdr, Harmony, let’s get down there.”

Harmony and Sela both got up and followed Proxima off the bridge. “Captain, I am afraid it cannot wait. Last night I had another vision of my parents.” She announced.

Proxima’s eyes widened. “Halt Turbolift.” She ordered, the turbo lift stopping in its tracks. “You saw your parents again?” She asked Sela.

“Indeed.” Sela responded as she held up her wrist to reveal the neural monitor. “There were messages that said they would see me today to discuss something.” She explained.

“Didn’t they wish no contact with you?” Proxima asked.

“They did. But I theorize that these visions are their doing somehow, so that must mean no contact has left the ship.” Sela responded.

“Given we know it is a Mind Meld, maybe it is not so crazy.” Proxima concluded. “That being said. I’m starting to think you should sit this one out Cmdr. You are under no obligation to tolerate their company.” She said.

Sela hesitated before responding. “I…will stand with you and Harmony captain, I just will not go with them if they wish to speak with me.” Sela said. Deciding that was an acceptable arrangement.

“And if they do insist, be equally as insistent that someone from our crew goes with you.” Proxima responded.

“That…is a logical move.” Sela said after a moment’s thought. “They really do not have a reason to refuse if it is official business.”

“Uhm…might I ask exactly what is going on between Sela and her parents?” Harmony asked. “I apologize but I have been growing more and more curious.” She said.

Proxima and Sela glanced at each other, before Sela spoke. “We shall explain everything later Harmony.” She said. “I might have to let everyone else on the Senior staff in on it too. So that they are aware of what I might have visions about.”

“It’s your call Sela.” Proxima said. “Resume turbolift.” She ordered. The turbolift started its journey once again.




(Start to about 1:24)
Space: The final frontier. This is the story of the USS Equestria. A ship fresh out of construction, with a crew fresh from the Academy. Together they will embark on a mission of discovery, and evolution. They will explore a strange new frontier, seek out new life and a new civilization, and boldly go farther than anyone has ever gone.



“There is an old earth Adage that I believe applies to all. Experience outranks everything Frisk said. “That people often learn more out in the field than they ever will in a mere classroom.”

“That is a sound argument commandant.” A representative said. “How would this apply to Harmony CyberSpark?”

“Instead of traditional classes, should Harmony CyberSpark make it to admittance into the academy as a cadet, it will be the standard four years, but instead of lectures and tests, Ms. CyberSpark will undergo guided field training with the crew of the USS Equestria as her teachers. She will go on away missions, act as an official crew member onboard, and learn much more out there then she ever will undergoing traditional academy curriculum.” Commandant Frisk replied.

From the stand in the Council Chamber, Vance and the maximas watched Commandant Frisk stalled for time for the Equestria. “Anything?” Hannah asked Vance.

“Nothing.” Vance responded. “The last thing we heard was that they’ll definitely be late for the session.”

Hannah and Belana glanced at each other. Worried that something might have happened to the Equestria.

Suddenly, a firm “ahem.” Was heard, interrupting Frisk. “As much as we appreciate an individual taking initiative and preparing ahead of time a plan for a potential Starfleet cadet.” Said Representative T’Pala, who approached the Commandant in front of the council. “I believe the question must be raised, why have we not heard from the USS Equestria yet. They should have called by now.” He said.

Commandant had to restrain himself from snapping at the representative as he responded. “The USS Equestria will call. They are just having technical difficulties, as to be expected when traveling the unknown.”

“Or they are merely saying as such so that they do not need to face the council.” Mr. T’Pala suggested.

Upon hearing that, Hannah and Belana were struggling not to go out there and tear the representative a new one for suggesting their daughter was cowardly, memories of the last time they were before the council with this issue. Vance meanwhile tapped his combadge. “Vance to Communications. PLEASE tell me the USS Equestria sent an update.” He said.

“They just did. We’re receiving a request for a subspace video call from the Equestria.” The officer on the other end said.

“Perfect.” Vance responded. “Route it through.” He ordered as he stood. “Madam President, esteemed members of this august body.” He addressed the council. “I have just received word that the USS Equestria is calling. They shall be here any moment.” He announced.

Commandant Frisk inwardly sighed in relief while he ushered Representative T’Pala to stand back. “You were saying?” He asked.

A moment later, five figures appeared on the floor of the Council Chamber. Two ponies, a Vulcan, a Denobulan and a Cardassian. “Captain Maxima.” Madam President acknowledged. 

“Madam President.” Captain Macima responded. “My sincerest apologies for our delay to appear. We suffered a failure with one of our relays. Without which we could not establish a reliable connection.”

“Better late than never Captain.”  Vance commented.

“Now that our guests have arrived.” Rillak replied. “We can now begin. Representative Bomty.” She urged a Bolian Representative.

The representative stood and approached Maxima and her crew. “Thank you for agreeing to hear our concerns Captain. But before that, I believe introductions are in order. As many of us are new following recent elections.” He stated.

“Of course.” Maxima said. “My name is Proxima Maxima. Captain of the USS Equestria. This is my first officer, Commander Sela T’Pala, Lt. Cmdrs Kasey Baker and Phlox Boimler, who are here to address any concerns you might have related to engineering or medical respectively. And finally, this our aspiring Starfleet Candidate, Harmony CyberSpark, the living conscious who’s body makes up the USS Equestria.” Proxima introduced herself and her crew.

“Splendid.” Representative Bomty replied, turning his attention directly to Harmony. “And I see that Admiral Vance’s statement of Harmony having a physical avatar to control holds true.” He said.

“Yes Representative.” Harmony responded. “I believe this body should suffice.”

“For the purposes of attending the Academy it will.” Bomty responded as he held up a PADD. “This council does not have too many concerns. And we do acknowledge that some of them are also due to our own meddling.” He said. “We shall discuss our biggest concern first. Involving the Eugenics Act of 2070.” He stated.

“Yes sir. And if I may be allowed to speak in that regard?” Proxima asked.

“Please Captain.” Bomty responded.

Proxima nodded. “Esteemed members of this council. We are aware of the laws preventing Augments from joining Starfleet. But in combing Starfleet records, we came across one officer that we would argue is similar to Harmony in every relevant regard.” She said as she tapped her combadge and a projection of a Starfleet officer appeared before the council. Every Starfleet officer in the room, except for Sela, who already knew this was coming, stared wide eyed at the mistakable form of Commander Data.

“Lieutenant Commander Data.” Vance identified the officer.

“Of the USS Enterprise. NCC 1701-D.” Proxima said. “An android. Faster, smarter, and stronger than your average Starfleet Officer. Much like Harmony herself.” She said. “Data could have been seen as an Augment by the law’s language, but despite that, he was accepted into the academy.”

“I see.” Bomty responded. “But if I understand the reports correctly, Harmony is not an Android.”

“That is correct.” Proxima responded, flashing a smile at Harmony. “She is so much more. So much we have yet to understand. But for the purposes of today. By our very limited and insufficient definition of beings such as Harmony, she is android in nature.”

“Indeed.” Mrs. T’Pala said as she entered the floor. “And if I understand historical records correctly. Mr. Data is the exception, not the rule. Starfleet does not have the best history with artificial intelligence. A prime Example could be Data’s brother, Lore. Or perhaps the Borg.” She counter argued.

Literally everyone inwardly groaned in frustration. They had expected this from Representatives T’Pala. “Captain Maxima.” Rillak addressed the captain. “Can you vouch that Harmony is not like such rogue AIs as Lore and the Borg?” She asked, trying to move things along as fast as possible.

“Yes Madam President. She and I share a unique bond. I would know if Harmony were planning to turn on us. And she has given no indication that she has malicious intentions.” Proxima responded. Hoping to put an end to the pointless arguing before it got worse.

“Yet. She may not have given any indication yet.” Mr. T’Pala countered.

Here we go. Was the collective thought of Sela, Proxima, and everyone else they were close to. Rillak inwardly sighed, her attempt to appeal to them failed.  This may technically be relevant but it’s still ridiculous. Rillak thought.



Back aboard the USS Equestria, now under cloak at high warp, Shron and Risa watched the proceedings in the mess hall. So far, Representatives T’Pala had argued Harmony’s trustworthiness, her psyche, and a bunch of other things that were growing more and more irrelevant. “Is this seriously what they did when the captain was before the council?” Risa asked.

“That’s what they said.” Shron said as he sipped his coffee. “God the cringe is real.”

“No doubt.” Risa said.

“As we have said before. Magic does not exist. It cannot be the main source of power for this Supposed Harmony Core.” They both heard Mr. T’Pala say. Shron choked on his coffee.

“How the hell did THAT get dragged into this?” He asked.

Risa just did a double facepalm. “I can’t help but wonder if outright impeachment of those whacks is an option.” She said. “Been doing some digging, apparently they have a history of being argumentative and cold hearted ruthless politicians.”

“Well, that’s not exactly illegal. It IS annoying though.” Shron responded.

“Following a one hour recess we will move on to the next concern the council has.” They heard President Rillak say. “And the discussion will remain focused on the concerns and nothing else.” She said sternly.

The screen shut off and Risa shook her head. “Think those two will listen to her?” She asked.

“Absolutely not.” Shron responded. “Those two come off as being narcissistic, self absorbed Aholes who clearly have it out for our Captain and First Officer.”

“Poor Harmony, stuck in the middle of a feud she has no stake in.” Risa commented.

“At least N’Var is only one planet. So even if they object, Harmony still has a decent shot.” Shron remarked.

“True.” Risa responded.



Back in the Council Chambers, after the recess was called, the representatives began to disperse, chatting amongst themselves. On the floor, Baker facepalmed. “Computer, time?” She asked.

“The time is now 1300hrs.” The computer responded.

“Two hours. For addressing ONE concern that shouldn’t have taken more than 10 minutes.” Proxima commented. “Sela, I will never understand what logic your parents are following.”

“I do not believe anyone will ever understand.” Sela responded in agreement.

“Least we have a break from their insanity. I’m gonna go give Cliff and Blitz their miniaturizers.” Kasey said.

Proxima nodded. “Hurry back. In case the council has more concerns that need your expertise.” She said.

“Of course.” Kasey said. “Computer, Arch.” She said. A doorway appeared and Kasey disappeared through it.

Not two seconds after Kasey left, the remaining officers heard a distinct ahem, from a source they didn’t expect. “Cmdr Sela. It is agreeable to see you again.” Said Mrs T’Pala, as both she and Mr. T’Pala approached.

Proxima inwardly growled while Sela hesitated, before responding. “As I recall, you wished that we cut off Contact for good.” She said.

“That might have been illogical in retrospect.” Her dad responded. “It was before something came up that we wish to discuss with you. Preferably away from everyone.” He said.

Sela was about to respond, before Phlox beat her to it. “I am afraid I cannot allow you two to talk to her without me there.” Phlox responded

“It is a private matter.” Sela’s mom said.

“Well her health is more important. And judging by the things she’s told me, you two are a MAJOR detriment to her mental health.” Phlox shot back. “So from now on, if you want to talk to her, you talk to her with either myself or Captain Maxima present, within earshot.” He told them sternly.

Mr. T’Pala rolled his eyes and glanced at Admiral Vance, who had approached. “Admiral, we wish to discuss something with Commander Sela alone, would you tell this doctor that it is a private matter?” He asked.

Vance had caught what Phlox told them, and he shook his head. “He has seniority when it comes to medical issues, including mental health.” He said simply. “So it would be best to listen to him.”

“And you two always take the doctor’s advice, don’t you.” Retorted Hannah, she and Belana stepped in to stand with Sela and her friends.

For a few moments, no one said a word, before Representatives T’Pala broke the silence. “We will just send a letter instead.” Sela’s dad said before they turned and walked off.

Sela waited until they were gone before she let out a breath she was holding. “I am grateful to have you guys looking out for me.” She told everyone.

“Always Sela.” Belana responded.

“Harmony.” Proxima said. “Until further notice I am assigning you to be communications officer in charge of screening all of Sela’s mail. Any mail with a return address of T’Pala is to be copied and saved as a record.” She said.

“Captain?” Harmony asked.

“Any reason for such a drastic action?” Vance asked.

“Those two are up to something. Something they want Sela to know.” Proxima responded. “Think about it. They say they want no contact but then want to talk to her all of a sudden. They run when Phlox tells them they can no longer talk to her without me or him there. They must not want US to know, but they want Sela to.” She deduced.

“Indeed captain.” Sela responded. “And I believe what their secret agenda includes.” She added, remembering her ordeals.

“What do they include commander?” Hannah asked.

“I would rather not say here. After the session I will make a report.” Sela responded.

“Fair enough.” Vance responded, understanding why Sela didn’t want to discuss here in front of everyone.

In an office meanwhile, Representatives T’Pala entered. And while they had neutral expressions on their faces, they were furious inside. “Us, a detriment to her health.” Mrs T’Pala said.

“An outrageous proposition. We have been nothing but exceptional parents for our daughter.” Mr. T’Pala responded.

“Indeed.” Mrs T’Pala said. “At least we now have our mind meld amplification device.”

“Shall we use it to talk to Sela after the recess?” Mr T’Pala asked.

“A fine idea dear.” Mrs. T’Pala responded.



“Alright. That should do it for you Cliff.” Baker said as she slid back out from under Cliffjumper’s chasis after installing his miniaturizer. “All goes well, you should now have access to the rest of the ship.” She said.

Cliffjumper waited for Baker to get out of the way before transforming back to robot mode. “Let’s do it.” He said. He was so excited to be small. For the last 45 minutes, Baker had been hard at work installing Miniaturizers on Blitz and Cliff, both of whom admitted to wanting to get out of the hangar. Blitz had his installed first and it was a success, making Blitz small enough to walk through the corridors of the ship. Now it was Cliff’s turn. He raised his wrist and tapped a new button that was the Miniaturizer activator. Upon pressing the button, he shrunk to Kasey’s size instantly. after he resettled, he looked around, and at himself, and smiled widely. “Yes! It worked! Oh thank the Allspark!” He exclaimed in relief.

Baker smiled and nodded at her handiwork. “I trust this will suffice?” She asked.

“It will. Thank you Cmdr Baker. We owe ya for this. Really.” Cliff told her.

“Just don’t make us regret giving you access to the rest of the ship and we’ll call it even.” Baker responded. “Now if you’ll excuse me, I should get back to Holodeck one.” She told them as she turned around and left.

With her gone, Teletran, who had witnessed the whole thing, turned to Blitz and Cliff. “So, how’s it feel to finally get out of here?” Teletran asked.

“My sanity thanks all who made it possible.” Cliff said as the three Cybertronians proceeded to the door of the hangar.



Back in Holodeck one, the council reconvened and President Rillak spoke. “This council is back in session. I would like to remind everyone that continuing proceedings will be focused solely on the direct concerns of the council over Harmony CyberSpark being a cadet at the academy.”

While Rillak talked, Phlox couldn’t help but notice something odd. Mr. And Mrs T’Pala were nowhere to be found. He took note of the absence as Representative Bomty took over. “Right. Now that we have addressed the Eugenics Act, Harmony’s physical form, and the issue of her actual education, which Commandant Frisk has provided a suitable plan for, we have one final concern that we suspect will be no issue. Harmony’s Citizenship papers are still in the process of being drawn up and approved.” He said. “As such she technically is not a Federation Citizen.”

“Yes sir.” Proxima responded, seeing what was coming. “To that end, both myself and Commander Sela are formally submitting our recommendation for Harmony to be allowed in Starfleet.” She told them.

“Yes. We believe she will be a valuable member of—of…” Sela trailed off when her vision blacked out, and then she saw her parents standing in darkness.

“Since we are not able to talk to you alone apparently. This is how we will communicate to you.” Her dad said.

From the outside, Sela had turned stock still and stared off into space, much to the confusion of everyone. Proxima was about to ask her what was up, before Boimler got to it first, noticing that Sela’s neural monitor was lighting up like a Christmas tree. He quickly grabbed Sela’s arm and began to usher her away. “Please excuse us madam President. Sela is experiencing a medical issue. Happens periodically. Computer arch!” He called.

The arch appeared and Sela and Boimler disappeared from the room.

Proxima quickly figured out what was going on. Sela must have been having another vision. After telling herself Sela would be fine, she returned her attention to the matter at hand. “Both Commander Sela and I endorse Harmony’s admittance into the academy.” She said simply.

Bomty, blinked a few times, before shrugging and moving on. “Right, well, that should do it for our concerns. Thank you for coming. We will now discuss what was said here and will let you know our decision as soon as we have it.” He explained.

“We appreciate your consideration Representative.” Proxima replied. “And we thank this august body for their time today.” She added.

“Dismissed.” Rillak responded.

Proxima nodded. “Computer, disconnect call.” She said.

The council and the chamber disappeared and the Holodeck returned to its grid like aesthetic. Not skipping a beat, Proxima immediately headed for the exit, tapping her combadge. “Boimler, are you and Sela in the medbay?” She asked, letting her worry out in full.

“We didn’t need to go all the way there. We’re just outside the Holodeck.” Boimler responded.

Proxima exited the Holodeck, and glanced around until she saw Boimler and Sela, Sela was leaning against the bulkhead, panting. “What happened?” Proxima asked as she approached them, she noticed Boimler had his HUD up.

“She had another vision.” Boimler responded. “And captain, this whole situation with Sela having visions just got a whole lot worse.” He said as he played back the feed from the Neural Monitor.

As Proxima watched the feed, her eyes widened, before her brows furrowed in anger. She tapped her combadge. “Norman, send word to Admiral Vance, tell him Commander Sela and I need to speak with him as soon as fraggin possible.” She said.

“Aye sir.” Norman responded. “What reason shall I give him?”

“Tell him that we need to discuss my parents’ recent actions.” Sela responded as she got back on her feet off the bulkhead.

“Yes Cmdr.” Norman responded, deciding not to question it.

Proxima nodded and turned her attention back to Boimler and Sela. “Is there anything that can help Sela doc?” She asked.

“Stopping the visions would most certainly be helpful. But that’s gonna take a feat of magic more than medical science Captain.” Boimler responded.

“I’ll send a message to Ambassador Starscout then. See if she can put me in contact with a somepony that can teach me a Mind Meld blocking spell.” Proxima responded. “In the meantime, save a record of all of Sela’s visions.” She ordered.

“Aye captain.” Boimler said. “Shall I take Sela to sickbay?”

“That is not necessary.” Sela responded. “I am fine now. The visions only affect me while they are happening.”

“Are you sure?” Proxima asked. “If you need time off—“

“I shall inform you if I need to take some time.” Sela responded. “However, I do believe that for the time being, I must be kept away from any and all weapons unless absolutely necessary.” She admitted, unholstering her phaser and handing it to Phlox.

“Any weapons in your quarters?” Proxima asked.

“Only my Vulcan pistol and my Lirpa.” Sela responded. “I shall turn them into to Yamik immediately.”

“If you think that’s best Cmdr.” Proxima responded.

“Captain Maxima. We got word back from home.” Norman’s voice said through intercom.

“Go ahead Cmdr.” Proxima replied.

“Vance was just about to send word to us. Seems the council made their discussion regarding Harmony.”

“That was fast.” Phlox responded.

“Is that good?” Harmony, who had approached during the last few minutes, asked.

“If it was that fast, they voted unanimously. Whether it was for or against is still up in the air.” Proxima responded.

“Captain, I believe it should be routed to the bridge, and all the senior staff should be present for not just the verdict, but also our report about my parents.” Sela said.

Proxima’s and Boimler’s expressions turned to shock and concern. “Are you sure Sela?” Proxima asked.

“I could have another vision at any moment. And should something happen, we need to be prepared.” Sela said. “And that means the most senior officers on this ship must be in the loop.”

Proxima stared at Sela for a moment, before nodding. “All senior staff, report to the bridge immediately. You too Harmony. Norman, route the call to the bridge Viewscreen.” She ordered.

“Aye sir.” Norman responded.

Proxima nodded. “Let’s go.”

On the bridge a few minutes later, Proxima, Sela, the senior staff, and Harmony all stood on the bridge of the USS Equestria as Admiral Vance and Commandant Frisk appeared on the view screen. “USS Equestria, this is Federation Headquarters. Do you read us?” Commandant Frisk asked.

“We read you Commandant.” Proxima responded.

“Greetings Captain.” Vance said. “Your operations officer’s message made it sound like you have bad news to report. So before that, the council has reached a verdict.” He said.

Silence on the bridge as everyone held their breath for the answer. Though technically speaking she did not have any breath to hold, Harmony still did her species’ equivalent of such an action. Her future was about to be determined. Would she be given the chance to join Starfleet, or would she remain like Zora, an AI on a vessel without a rank.

After what seemed like an eternity to Harmony, Vance spoke again. “The council has decided, unanimously, to allow Harmony the chance to join Starfleet.” Vance announced. “Her application will be processed, she will go through the entrance exam. And assuming she passes, she will be a cadet in time for the next academic year.” He explained.

All heads turned to Harmony and all around her, she could see smiles on their faces, save for Sela. She herself let a smile grow on her face as she responded. “That is good to hear Admiral.” She said.

“I would not celebrate too much just yet.” Commandant Frisk responded. “You still have a ways to go. You need to choose a career path, prepare for the entrance exam. It will not be easy or trivial.” He said.

“Understood sir.” Harmony responded. “I am ready to face this head on.”

“The Entrance exam is in two months. You best hit the books.” Frisk responded.

“She will Commandant.” Proxima said as she turned to Harmony. “During your time leading up to the exam you will serve as an official member of this crew as Junior Warrant Officer in Training. You will study every function aboard this ship, shadow every department, and will follow a duty schedule created by Commander Sela focused heavily on study.” She said.

“Aye captain.” Harmony responded. “I shall endeavor to not disappoint.”

“Good luck Harmony CyberSpark. I look forward to seeing you on my incoming cadet roster in due time.” Frisk said before he cut off connection, leaving Vance on the screen.

A moment of Silence before Shron broke it. “Congrats Harmony.” He said.

“Yeah. And a Unanimous vote. That is incredibly rare.” Risa commented.

Harmony nodded. “I take it that is something to be proud of.” She said.

“It is.” Vance responded. “Alright, onto the bad news. Captain, Commander, what must you talk to me about?” Vance asked.

All eyes turned to Sela, who took a deep breath and called up the feed from her latest vision. “Just watch this.” She said simply. “I received this shortly after the recess.”

Vance and everyone watched, and at first they saw black, before they saw a pair of Vulcans some recognized. “Your parents?” Vance asked before the Vulcans started talking.

“Since we are not able to talk to you alone apparently. This is how we will communicate to you.” Sela’s father said.

“We know you have been seeing us in visions this past week. We are the ones who sent them to you via our new Mind Meld device.” Her mother said. “It amplifies a Vulcan’s Mind Melding enough that a Vulcan may meld with anyone of their choosing across any distance. Without needing physical contact.”

“Your Medical Condition is nothing but a fabricated farce. One designed by conspirators intending to create dissent among Vulcans. But we will prove otherwise.”

“We will continue to send you visions of the most horrifying things and you will be trained to suppress your emotions entirely. Only then will you be a Vulcan in our eyes.”

“Get plenty of Rest Sela, you will need it.” Sela’s father finished.

“And one more thing. Tell anyone about this and the consequences will be severe.” Her mother added before the image cut.

As the feed disappeared, everyone on the bridge stared at the empty space it left, as did Vance. While most were confused. Vance, Sela, Boimler, and Proxima all were having similar thoughts.

Unbelievable. This is way out of line, even for them!

A Farce?! How the Kraken can they ignore Scientific Medical FACTUAL Evidence?!

If this doesn’t lead to them FINALLY getting what they have always deserved there is corruption SOMEWHERE in the Federation.

After a few minutes of silence, the first to speak was Risa. “Uhm…Ok I am getting the sense that something is very wrong here. But Some context might be needed.” She said.

“Yeah. Those are your parents Commander?” Shron asked.

“I have the grave misfortune of being honest when I say yes they are Cmdr Shron.” Sela responded.

“Yeah I think we’ll need that context Baker mentioned.” Yamim said.

“Before that.” Vance said. “Commander, After watching that I believe I know why you called. You wish to formally report your parents for conspiracy and intent to commit acts of aggression towards a Starfleet Officer.” He stated.

“Yes sir.” Sela responded.

“I’ll have them brought in for questioning. Send us everything you have in relation to this investigation.” Vance said.

“Aye sir.” Sela responded.

Vane nodded, before the connection cut.

All eyes turned to Sela. “Commander?” Risa asked. “What is going on?”

Sela was about to speak before Proxima beat her to it. “Before that, This conversation WILL NOT leave this bridge. This is highly sensitive information that is for no one else’s ears.” She told everyone. “Clear?” She asked.

“Clear.” The bridge responded.

Sela took a deep breath, before she started. “I have a medical condition. It prevents me from suppressing my emotions as a Vulcan would without risking my very life. To put it simply, I must be emotional like a human or a Klingon or I will eventually perish.” She announced.

Everyone’s eyes widened. Sela continued. “Yes, you heard correctly. And yes, I am absolutely aware of the irony. But that is currently beside the point. My parents have always believed it to be a hoax, nothing but a Farce as they claimed. They would force me to ignore the doctor’s advice, they would drill into me that I must suppress my emotions completely, and would…Let us just say I have always preferred the Captain’s parents over my own. By an entire galaxy’s length.” She said.

“Whoa.” Yamik responded. “That sounds awful.”

“You have no idea.” Proxima said.

“They have this twisted vision that a Vulcan who does not suppress their emotions completely is not a true Vulcan at all. They see Emotions and Logic as two enemies on a battlefield.” Sela explained. They believe all emotion is to be eliminated in order to truly embrace the teachings of Surak.” Sela said.

“Something tells me that’s not what Surak intended at all.” Shron said.

“I do not know.” Sela said. “However, I…want to believe that if my medical condition were known to him, he would say that it is more logical to take care of my health than to suppress my emotions.” She declared.

“I agree.” Kasey said. “Boimler, health trumps all correct?” She asked.

“Absolutely.” Phlox responded. “Every person. Vulcan, Human, Vorta, should think about their health first and foremost. After all, if we’re not healthy, we get sick, and if we’re sick enough, we die.” He said.

“Someone should tell that to Representative T’Pala.” Harmony commented.

“I have come to learn that there is no reasoning with them on this issue.” Sela responded. “And over the years, they have only become more and more hostile, both toward myself and those they deemed to be my friends. Chief among them Captain Maxima.”

Shron’s eyes widened at that, realizing something. “THAT’S why they opposed your application, isn't it Captain. It was a personal vendetta.” He said.

“Correct.” Proxima responded. “They hated that I was Sela’s friend. An outsider who was able to see them for what they really are. So whenever they could, they made my life hell. Fortunately, there wasn’t much they COULD do since my family was close with the highest echelon of federation government.” She explained.

“Talk about lucky.” Norman commented.

“I doubt you will find someone who disagrees with you, Cmdr Norman.” Sela responded.

“Well, back to the visions thing.” Yamik said. “There’s got to be SOMETHING we can do on our end to block their mind melding whatchamacallit.” He said.

“The only thing we might be able to do on our end is Captain Maxima casting some kind of enchantment.” Sela said.

“And that is only if such an enchantment exists. I’m getting in contact with Ambassador Starscout. With luck she can put me through to a unicorn with such knowledge.” Proxima said.

“So…Commander Sela’s only hope is a magical spell that might not even exist.” Shron said. “Not gonna lie Commander. Your parents sound like they have more than a few screws loose.”

“Indeed.” Sela responded. “And because of that. So long as I am vulnerable to their machinations, I am a danger to this ship and to the crew. Yamik, I will be by your office shortly to turn in my phaser, Vulcan Pistol and my Lirpa. I am not to be trusted with any weapon unless absolutely necessary. Adding to that. Should I start acting strange to any of you, Your first reaction should be to immediately transport me to the brig. I will not be able to do much damage in that place.” She told everyone.

As she expected, everyone stared at her, shocked. “Commander, are you certain the brig is the first place we should transport you?” Boimler asked. “The medbay would be a more–”

“Doctor, my mind is open to a pair of psychotic, narcissistic, self-absorbed maniacs who may very well use me to cause havoc on this ship out of pure malice. While I had played with the thought of outright leaving the ship and following behind in a shuttle, that is not feasible. So transporting me to the brig at the first sign of me acting strange will protect the ship, and the crew.” Sela said.

“But surely you being restrained to a biobed so we can monitor your—“

“Doctor.” Proxima cut Phlox off again. “She’s right. The brig would be able to hold her until you got there to put her to sleep should the need arise.” She reasoned. “Yamik, ensure all departments are aware of the new security protocol but go into as little detail as possible.” She ordered.

“Aye sir.” Yamik responded.

Proxima nodded, while Norman got a message on his console. “Admiral Vance calling again.” He said.

“On screen.” Proxima responded.

Vance’s face appeared on the main viewer a second later. “Captain, commander. We have recieved a report that Representatives T’Pala are nowhere to be found. They are not in their office, or anywhere in Federation Headquarters.” He reported.

Silence befell the crew again as Vance’s words sunk in. “…They knew.” Proxima deduced. “They knew that Sela would immediately report the outright confession.”

“They must have gone into hiding.” Yamik said. “On the lamb in order to safely continue their insanity.”

“I am issuing a warrant for their arrest. This has become a full blown investigation.” Vance responded. “Commander Sela. I trust we will have your cooperation during this time?” He asked.

“Aye sir.” Sela said. “Whatever you need, I shall do my bets to provide.”

“Thank you.” Vance responded. “Be careful out there. There’s no telling what will happen.” He added, before the connection was cut.

“So not only are we at war with Unicorn, but now we have a threat to deal with that should be physically impossible for us to deal with.” Shron said.

“Think they’ll ever be found?” Risa asked.

“Only time will tell.” Proxima responded. “Meanwhile, Vance has the investigation at home, but we can still assist by sending him any evidence we can.”

“Yes captain. You asked me to be communications officer in charge of screening Commander Sela’s mail, I shall also take charge of sending gathered evidence to Admiral Vance.” Harmony responded. Determined to prove herself.

“Very good.” Proxima replied. “And now that that is settled. There is no reason for us to hover around our restored communications bouy. Helm?” She asked.

Mr Paris, who hadn’t said anything the entire exchange, nodded. “Setting course for Jungletron. Whenever your Ready Captain.” He said.

Proxima nodded, before an idea came to her. “Harmony, take us out.” She said.

Harmony’s eyes widened. “Me?” She asked, stunned.

“Indeed.” Proxima confirmed. Gesturing for Harmony to take the captain’s chair.

Harmony, after a moment’s hesitation, smiled and took the Captain’s chair, while Sela took her usual spot and Proxima took the other chair in the line. All eyes turned to Harmony, waiting for her call.

Harmony looked around at all the eyes watching her expectantly. She knew what they wanted to know, so she thought for a second, before she smiled. “Mr Paris, Rev it.” She ordered.

Mr Paris smiled as he did as he was told and the USS Equestria jumped to maximum warp. While also smirking to himself. Now THERE is a warp call. He thought.

To be continued…