Luna kept a keen eye on the courtroom doors, awaiting her sister's return. The documents on the data drive that condemned Marcus and Section Thirty-One were horrific and bound to be a shock to anyone who had not been warned of their contents. Over the past two weeks, Luna contemplated telling Samsa about what Marcus had planned for her, but the brunette never found the heart to do so.
A good twenty minutes passed before Samsa finally reappeared with Uhura not far behind. Cassian was being bombarded with countless questions as the two women settled in their seats.
Nearly all the planned witnesses had said their pieces and been questioned. Despite Samuel's confident posture, Luna had a horrid feeling that the favour was leaning more towards Shaw's side of the case.
"Even though it was never Miss Gillian's intention to harm Officer Harewood's family, it was her carelessness and lack of judgement that ultimately lead to the death of Thomas Harewood. And, consequently, the devastation that followed the Archive bombing."
Shaw paused and turned to look at the rest of the auditorium. "I cannot deny the tragic events that put Miss Gillian on this path. None of us can. It prompts the question, can we blame her? Can we blame her for acting so recklessly when so much was at risk? But when we look at how many lives her choices have affected, it would be safer for everyone if her punishment was more severe."
When Shaw finished her piece, there was a general murmur of agreement throughout the courtroom. Luna wasn't surprised. She could foresee the outcome of this trial and started preparing herself for the worst.
"Thank you, Miss Shaw," the Judge said. "Officer Harewood, you may return to your seat."
Cassian retreated from the witness stand with a frustrated expression. He looked over at Luna and shook his head apologetically, but it wasn't his fault at all. Shaw managed to twist his words to support her side of the case. Luna had to admit, she was good at her job.
"Mister Cogley," the Judge called. "Are there any other witnesses you wish to bring forward?"
Luna glanced at the lawyer, expecting him to look panicked and defeated, but Samuel was smiling rather brightly.
"Just one, Your Honour," he said. "I would like to call Ambassador Spock to the stand."
A chorus of whispers and utterances filled the room. Luna frowned, having absolutely no idea who Samuel was referring to. Spock was supposed to be exempt from being a witness as he was part of the committee overseeing the case. Plus, as far as the brunette was aware, 'Ambassador' was not his correct title.
However, someone rose from a seat at the back of the auditorium and began walking towards the stand. He looked to be an older man with greying hair, dressed in a long chocolate brown robe. Only when he reached the witness stand, did Luna realise who he was.
Samsa had told her all about the events of last year: how a grief-stricken Romulan came through a black hole and raged an attack on Starfleet, consequently creating an alternate reality. The Spock standing at the witness stand was from the future.
His younger self was looking on with a raised eyebrow, clearly unaware that this version would be making an appearance.
"Ambassador, first of all, I would like to convey my gratitude for agreeing to give a statement today," Samuel said, smiling at the Vulcan.
Ambassador Spock bowed his head, before catching Luna's eyes. She nearly flinched with the contact. Not because it was threatening, but because it felt so...warm. She never imagined a Vulcan could have such a comforting gaze. Especially one she had technically never spoken to before.
"Do you remember when you first met the Defendant?"
"In my reality, I first met Luna Gillian during the five-year mission aboard the U.S.S Enterprise."
"And what was your impression of her?"
Ambassador Spock paused before answering. "I believed she was dangerous. Full of anger and hatred."
That sounds accurate, Luna thought to herself. She was about to zone out, believing the outcome of the trial was already decided, but Samuel's next question revived her focus.
"And what about the last time you saw her?" He asked. "Before you ended up in the past?"
A smile graced the Vulcan's features. "The last time I saw Luna Gillian, she was assisting with the effort to save Romulas from the black hole."
"So, she remained in your life even after all those years?"
"Of course. Throughout the duration spent working with Starfleet, she found a new purpose. At first, our relationship was...difficult, but in time, we became friends. I was surprised to discover that we were more alike than I originally thought."
Luna nearly laughed out loud. She would have believed this was all false if it weren't for the fact that Vulcans were incapable of lying. Even if they were closer in this other reality, why would Ambassador Spock do this for her?
"Objection!" Shaw's voice rang through the silence. "How can the Ambassador's statement be relevant to Miss Gillian's situation in this reality, if she is on an entirely separate path?"
"Overruled, Miss Shaw." The Judge looked back at Ambassador Spock with his eyebrows furrowed in curiosity. "I do believe all the scheduled witnesses have given their statements. This court will be adjourned while the Council determine the final sentence. Dismissed."
☆☆☆
Luna took a long drag of her cigarette and shut her eyes, finding comfort in the cold January breeze that rippled through her hair. The Council had been deciding her fate for the best part of an hour. She had managed to convince the guard to let her smoke one last time.
"I thought I might find you out here."
Luna looked up to see Ambassador Spock emerging from the exit door to her right. "Guess that means I still have these in the future," she said, gesturing to her cigarette.
The Vulcan raised a single eyebrow and chuckled. "It does."
As he grew closer, the security guard's hand tightened around his phaser. "Sir, she's not restrained. For your safety, I-"
"Miss Gillian is not going to hurt me, or anyone for that matter," Ambassador Spock said, calmly. "If you don't mind, Officer, I would appreciate a moment of privacy."
The guard hesitated, but soon nodded and moved further down the gravel path.
"Thank you...for speaking for me in there," Luna said. She blew out a plume of smoke and smirked. "Samuel really stuck his neck out to get the best witnesses."
"It was no trouble."
The brunette pursed her lips and leant against the wall. "I'm gonna be honest, this is probably the most bizarre interaction I've ever had. And considering my age, that's saying something."
Ambassador Spock chuckled again, joining his hands behind his back. "To me, you are young."
"Yeah, right," Luna scoffed. "Five-hundred and ninety-five. I'm in my prime years."
"You are indeed."
"I was joking."
"I am aware."
"Didn't think Vulcans understood the complexities of sarcasm."
"I have spent enough time amongst humans to become accustomed to their humorous ways."
"You and me both," Luna laughed. "I guess we are quite alike." Her smile faded, however, as she looked at the older Vulcan. "You and I haven't really spoken properly. I mean, the younger you, in this reality. We've agreed and disagreed on things. Mainly disagreed. But never just...talked."
"There's plenty of time for that, my friend, I assure you."
My friend. His choice of words caused tears to prick the edges of her vision. Several slipped down her cheek as she distinguished the end of her cigarette. "I know you're not supposed to ask questions about the future," Luna sniffed, wiping her cheeks. "But when you last saw me, was I...was I happy?"
Ambassador Spock dropped his gaze and came to stand in front of her. "Happiness is gained, not from getting what we want, but what we need. Ensure you remember that, moving forward."
Luna forced a smile and nodded, slightly dismayed by the vagueness of his answer. She went to reply when the security officer approached, having just received a message on his communicator.
"Time to come back inside now, Miss Gillian," he said. "The Council has made a decision."
☆☆☆
Samsa took great comfort in the sensation of Jim's hand rubbing smooth circles on her back. The rest of her body was tensed up with knots of anxiety. She was desperately trying to resist the urge to dig her nails into her palms again.
She and a few others were waiting in a nearby meeting room for the outcome of Luna's trial. Mason had paced the length of the room multiple times already, while Scotty sat playing cards with Keenser. Spock and Uhura were stood together, conversing quietly. As were Leonard, Carol, Pavel and Hikaru.
The door suddenly opened, making Samsa flinch. She wanted her sister to come through, free of any restraints, with nothing but good news. Her wish went unanswered, as Cogley drifted into the room.
"The last witness was a strong one. I think you'll find this will go in your sister's favour." The Lawyer's lip curled at the corner as he spoke.
Mason stopped pacing and narrowed his eyes. "You seem rather confident."
"I have a reputation to uphold, Mister True."
"May I ask how you knew Ambassador Spock would be able to provide a statement?" Spock asked from his position across the room.
"Lots and lots of research," Cogley answered. "I discovered that Miss Gillian's name was mentioned by Nero on the Narada. Then, I connected the dots from there and managed to make contact with New Vulcan."
"A warning in advance would have probably been appreciated," Samsa said aloud.
Cogley met her eyes with a warmer smile and tucked his hands into the pockets of his cloak. "You're right. I apologise that it was a shock-" He paused and looked directly at Spock. "-especially for you. It was a last-minute arrangement that I procured by the skin of my teeth."
"I have to say, you're definitely worth your bill," Samsa said, managing a small smile. "Speaking of-" She got to her feet, rooted in her handbag and brought out an old leather-bound notebook. "-as promised."
An excited grin made its way onto Cogley's face. He looked like a child on Christmas morning. "Which years?"
"Later half of the nineteen sixties, including Earth's first moon landing. Should make for an interesting read." Samsa held the book out for him. "It's yours."
Cogley took the journal with extreme care, treating it as if it were a tiny animal. "It...it's mine? I'm content with just borrowing it."
"Believe me, I have way too many of those things. You're more than welcome to come and choose another."
The lawyer was about to respond when the door opened again. Admiral Paris was first to enter, an Iranian woman with sharp features, who had been one of the leading members of the jury. Two security guards followed shortly after, escorting Luna between them. Samsa felt tears sting her throat upon seeing her sister was free of any restraints.
"Miss Gillian is to be placed under house arrest until an appropriate arrangement for behavioural modification aboard a Federation vessel can be organised," Admiral Paris announced.
A mutual feeling of relief settled throughout the room. Cogley looked especially happy with the result. Samsa was forced to hold back tears. She finally had her sister back with her. Hopefully, for good.
"The question is," Paris continued. "Where will she stay until then?"
Mason appeared at Samsa's side and sent her a warm smile. "She can stay with us."
"Are you sure?" The Blonde whispered.
"Of course. She can't be that much of a pain to live with," he teased.
"I'm standing right here, True," Luna quipped with a raised eyebrow. "Right here."
Samsa stifled a chuckle and smiled at her sister. "You get used to her after five hundred years."
"That settles it then," Admiral Paris said. "The guards will escort her to the chosen accommodation."
Just as Paris made to leave, Luna turned to catch the woman's attention. "Admiral, before you go..." She trailed off as if searching for the right words. "I know I'm in no place to make any requests, but what Marcus did to Khan...taking his identity away from him...he didn't deserve that. And I...I was wondering if there was any way it could be reversed."
Paris narrowed her eyes, taking several steps back towards the brunette. "You're right about being in no place to make requests," she began, trailing into a sigh. "But you're also right about Khan. I'll see what I can do."
☆☆☆
Six Months Later - Starfleet Headquarters, San Francisco
Benita glided through the water, feeling content as she swam through a kaleidoscope of fish. She lifted her waterproof camera and grinned, snapping a photo of Maria, while Pablo ran a gloved hand along the Dolphin's side. It was moments like these, where the Romulan felt most at home: underwater with all the mesmerising creatures.
After a further ten minutes, the depleted oxygen bars on her suit prompted her to bring the diving session to a close. Before she did so, however, Benita caught sight of a familiar Scotsman and his little friend beyond the glass of the tank. She gave them a wave before signalling to Pablo that she was heading back to the surface.
Once out of the water, Benita changed out of her scuba gear and back into her clothes. Pablo appeared shortly after, gushing about a selfie he managed to get with Maria. This was how the two marine biologists often spent their lunch breaks: photoshoots with all their aquatic friends.
Work had been rather slow over the past few months. San Francisco was still recovering from the crash of the U.S.S Vengeance, but the state of the city had improved much since then. As well as that, the trial of Khan Noonien Singh was still ongoing, with enquiries being held every day.
After braiding her dampened hair, Benita headed down to the viewing area to meet her friends. Scotty and Keenser were sat on one of the many seats. They seemed to be bickering about something when she approached.
"Benita!" Scotty greeted, jumping to his feet.
"Hi guys," the Romulan grinned. "What brings you here?"
"We were just...err...I-" Scotty's murmuring was cut off when Keenser pushed him from behind, causing him to stumble closer. The Scotsman cast his friend a glare before composing himself. "I wanted to ask you something, Lass."
"Okay," Benita chuckled, nervously.
"As you know, Sulu's wedding is coming up and I was wondering..." Scotty trailed off and squeezed his eyes shut. "...if you maybe wanted to go with me?"
A mixture of excitement and anxiety tightened her chest. Was Scotty asking her on a date? Or was it just intended as a friendly gesture? Benita was terribly out of touch with this sort of thing. She almost wanted the ground to swallow her up.
"You...you mean like a-a date?" She squeaked.
Scotty cautiously re-opened a single eye. "Yes?"
Benita was lost for a response. She remained frozen, desperately trying to think of something to say, but Scotty beat her to it.
"It-it doesn't have to be," he rushed to say. "It's probably better if it isn't. Maybe we could...err..."
"No!" Benita stopped his rambling and moved closer. "I...I would like it to be a date."
A smile brightened Scotty's face. He looked relieved. "Really?"
"I'm a bit rusty with all that stuff, but yeah," she said, returning the smile with a nod. "It's a date."
☆☆☆
Mason was glad to get back to the apartment after such a long day. He spent the morning trying to sort out what division of Starfleet he was going to work in. Then, the afternoon had been reserved for another session with Amalbi.
The Kahn-ut-tu had told him that all his visions were connected. Whether that was by something or someone...it was up to him to work out. All that mattered, was that he was getting better at controlling when he saw them.
"Someone looks like they need a big glass of giggle water."
Mason looked up to see Luna sprawled across the sofa. She was still in her pyjamas despite the time being well past noon and three empty wine bottles had been discarded on the coffee table. She was halfway through a fourth.
"Someone looks like they need to sober up," he countered.
"That's hilarious," Luna said, sarcastically. She finished off the dregs in her glass and went for a refill. "Is my sister still out?"
"Guess so," Mason sighed, as he went to discard the empty bottles.
"What even is the outside world? Has it changed much since I last saw it?"
He couldn't help chuckling at that. "Since January, not really."
"Thought so." Luna got to her feet, wobbling slightly after her alcohol intake.
Mason hurried forwards, going to steady her, but she managed to steady herself.
"Sorry. I'm...I'm okay. I just need some fresh air."
"Do you need any water-"
"I'm good." She forced a smile and trailed her way over to the corridor leading to the bedrooms.
Seeing her like this was hard for Mason. Ever since the start of her house arrest, Luna had resorted to drinking frequently. She could always look after herself, but it wasn't healthy. Samsa was often beside herself with worry, though she never admitted it out loud.
Just as Luna disappeared from view, the sound of the front door unlocking shifted Mason's attention. He turned in time to see Samsa walk through, with Jim, Spock and Hikaru not far behind. They all looked exhausted. Even Spock's usual immaculate posture had been tarnished by a slight hunch.
"What's the verdict today then?" Mason asked.
Samsa scanned the living area and went to answer upon seeing her sister was absent. "The Federation Council have decided that Khan is to be placed back in cryo with the rest of his crew."
Mason rolled his eyes with a scoff. "After all these months, that's the grand plan they come up with?"
"I don't like it either," Jim said, shaking his head. "Something just doesn't feel right."
"It was the only logical sentence that the court could have passed," Spock said. "Khan would certainly never volunteer for behavioural modification and he is too dangerous to be kept in a containment facility."
Hikaru nodded and ran a hand down his face, tiredly. "It was either cryo sleep, or wake up the whole bunch and put them on an uninhabited planet to start afresh."
Mason couldn't believe what he was hearing. "They were actually considering doing that?"
"It's a standby option," Samsa sighed.
A sudden smashing sound from the far side of the room caused Mason to jump out of his skin. Luna was back, stood in the entrance to the living area with wide, glistening eyes. What was once her wine glass had now shattered around her bare feet, spilling the crimson beverage over the floor.
"They're...they're going to wake them all up?" The brunette asked, quietly.
Samsa was by her side in seconds, guiding her away from the hazardous shards. "No, Lu." Her voice was soft as she spoke. "At least, not any time soon."
Mason grabbed a dustpan and brush from the kitchen and began sweeping up the broken glass. Only then did he realise he'd seen this before: one of the visions he first had all those months ago, when the U.S.S Vengeance crashed.
"Shit, sorry. It just slipped through my hand."
"Don't worry, it's just a glass. Are you okay? Did it cut you?"
Luna glanced down at her bare legs and cringed at a particular piece that had punctured her angle. "I've been impaled by worse, Sams." She then proceeded to limp away from her sister, heading towards the doors to the balcony, while retrieving her cigarettes and a lighter from her pocket.
As soon as the brunette was outside, Samsa turned to look straight at Mason. "How much has she had?"
He stood up straight and chewed the inside of his mouth. "Nearly four bottles. I thought she'd gone to bed."
"Four?" Hikaru echoed in concern.
"We process alcohol differently," Samsa assured. "But four is still bad..." She trailed off and ran a hand through her hair. "Being cooped up inside hasn't been good for her. Especially when she rarely opens up about everything that happened."
Jim immediately went to Samsa's side and took her hand into his own. Mason still smiled every time he saw them together. It felt just like their Academy days all over again, except there were no secrets between them this time. Just love.
Spock took a step forward, choosing to break the silence. "Perhaps if Miss Gillian were given the opportunity to visit Khan before he is placed back into cryogenic freeze, that would provide some closure?"
"She doesn't want to see him," Samsa said. "It's why she never went to his trial in person to give her statement."
"What if Luna had permission to come to the wedding?" Hikaru suddenly suggested.
Samsa's eyes widened and she shook her head. "I couldn't ask you to do that."
"You didn't, I'm offering," he grinned. "I'll have to double-check with Ben when I get home, but it should be fine."
"You're absolutely sure? I don't want to cause any trouble."
"Samsa, it's fine," Hikaru chuckled. "You said so yourself, being cooped up all the time isn't good for your sister."
"Thank you," the Blonde smiled, sheepishly.
After a few drinks, both Spock and Hikaru left to go home. Despite this, Samsa was still rushing about doing all sorts of jobs around the apartment. This prompted Jim to insist (several times) that she sit down and chill.
When she eventually did, the pair cuddled up together on the sofa and ended up falling asleep. Mason smiled at the sight and left his seat to drape a large, fluffy blanket over them. Samsa murmured in her slumber, curling closer to her boyfriend. She needed the rest. They both did.
Mason was about to head to bed himself when he noticed the balcony was still occupied by a certain Sanguine. After a brief moment of hesitation, he fetched two ice pops from the fridge, and made his way outside.
Luna was sat doing some knitting, with a lit cigarette hanging out the corner of her mouth. Goodness knows how many of those things she'd had.
Mason slumped in the chair next to her and offered one of the ice pops. Luna paused her task and took the frozen treat with a small smile.
The pair found comfort in the silence, as the stars of the night sky were just beginning to blossom.
Hey readers, so so sorry for the horrendous lack of updates! I have been so busy with uni work, but I've got more time to write now that the Christmas holidays are coming up! Hope you are all okay!! ❤