A Family Vacation

Posted on Fri Aug 19th, 2022 @ 3:23am by Lieutenant Commander Shoniara T’ghann-Travis Dr & Lieutenant Seth Travis

Mission: A Trip to Middle Earth
Location: Holodeck 1
Timeline: Pre Team Building Holodeck Adventure

Seth had thought about it and had decided that he, Shon and Shasta needed some family time to do a little bonding. The holodeck was the perfect choice, they could have their 'vacation' and still be on the ship. However he needed to talk with Shon about where was a good choice for them to go that would allow the bonding time he thought they needed or at least he and Shasta needed.

He found Shon in the study, "Hey, got a minute? Have an idea I want to run by you.

Shon looked up from her Tolkien and broke into a smile at the sight of her husband. She put her book down gently after marking the place with an antique bookmark, “always for you my love, what’s up?”

"Have an idea and I want your input." Seth replied as he took a seat on the couch. "Was thinking of the three of us going on a family vacation and to do a little bonding between Shasta and myself. After all, I'm new to her and this is an adjustment for her as well."

Shon put her arms around Seth’s neck and kissed him loving the feel of his skin on hers. “That sounds wonderful, you seem to be getting on well with her. Where would you like to go?”

Not one to pass a chance to kiss his wife, Seth kissed Shon back.again thanking his lucky stars for finding her. "Don't know, some place where we can all have a good time and where she and I can bond."

She thought for a moment.”I would rather it was somewhere new for all of us, a place where there are no monsters,” she laughed. Somewhere in nature with plenty of places to swim, she takes after me in the love of water and camping. Not Vulcan it’s far too hot….possibly somewhere on Earth?”

"Hmm." Seth thought for a few seconds. "What about the mountains? We can hike, swim and camp along with being right in the middle of nature and most importantly no monsters." Seth chuckled.

“Definitely NO monsters!” Shon laughed, she found laughter so easy when she was with him. “How about Spring in Yellowstone, lakes, mountains plenty of hiking and relaxation. Bonding for father and daughter and, if I am honest I feel ill at ease around her at times. I have no idea why she is Shasta but she feels otherworldly sometimes.”

Seth nodded happily, "I think that is a fantastic idea Shon honey. I love it. I hope Shasta does as well. This is going to be a wonderful experience for all of us." Seth finished with a big smile on his face.

She smiled, I hope so too my love. I know that Shasta has had some trouble making friends at school. Someone has let it slip out what happened. Apparently some of them are calling her ‘dead girl’. It does not seem to bother her but,” she frowned, “it does me…Seth I feel as though she will be snatched away from us at any moment, like an itch I cannot scratch.” She cuddled in to him wanting to feel his arms around her comforting her troubled heart.

Seth frowned at hearing what Shon was telling him about Shasta. "I can talk to the captain, but I don't know if it would do any good. Kids can be so cruel. As for her being snatched away, don't think about it Shon or try not to. Take every day as a gift because that's what it is." He brought his arms up to encircle her and hold her close. As he hugged her, he kissed her forehead. "Everything will be alright, and this is going to be good family outing."

[Holodeck 1 Yellowstone Lake McDonald simulation]

Shon hefted her pack onto her back trying to remember if she had everything, rations, water, medkit with anti snake venom, her book and blanket.

Seth was dressed in cargo shorts,hiking boots a pullover shirt and an Australian WWII field hat. He picked up his backpack.
Everybody ready to have some fun? Shasta, you ready?"

Shasta nodded and shouldered her pack. “It better be a good trip as I am missing a party for this.”

Shon tut tutted, “it will be as much fun as you put into it no doubt. You told me yesterday you were really looking forward to it?”

“I am, very much,” Shasta said, “it’s just that Jenna, one of the girls that has been teasing me at school asked me.”

Shon looked at Seth, that would have been dangerous ground to let her go to that party. No doubt there were not good reasons to ask her. She opened the doors of the holodeck and a delicious mountain breeze flowed into the corridor followed by birdsong, somewhere an eagle called as they stepped in together and the doors closed behind them. “Now isn't this so much better?” Shon asked.

Seth caught the look Shon sent him and shook his head slightly. Instead, he looked at the majestic vista before them. The sky was clear and the air was crisp. "Now this is beautiful! Let's go find a site where we can make camp before we start to explore. How does that sound to everyone?" He looked over to Shasta, "Maybe we can camp near a river and do some fishing, which we can have for a meal one night. How does that sound?"

All talk of parties forgotten Shasta said “I will find us a camping spot.” She set off at pace up the nearest trail leading towards the mountains. “Don’t got too far ahead Shasta, watch out for bears!” Shon called as they began to follow her. They appeared to be just below the tree line as the sun shone, dappled by the branches of the spruce fir trees. The smell was almost of mint, fresh and alluring as Shon looked up filling her lungs with the fresh air. “This is wonderful Seth,” she said as she followed her daughter up the trail. The warmth of the sun was just right but it was making Shon aware that, somewhere along the trail she needed to swim.

Seth chuckled at Shasta as she set out to find them a camping spot. He walked easily, as he took in the natural beauty of the surrounding area. He smiled at Shon, "Thanks, I just hope Shasta likes it." He replied as he kept his eyes on their daughter as she hiked ahead of them. "Find us a good spot Shasta!" He hollered before he looked over to Shon. "Maybe later we can go for a swim, if we're close to a lake."

They followed the trail for an hour or so stopping numerous times to enjoy the magnificent views out across the valley to the snow covered mountain ranges on the other side. The going was getting a little rougher as they suddenly came to an end of the woods. Shasta was sitting down before water as far as the eye could see. “Lake McDonald” Shasta announced. “The largest lake in the park over ten miles long and over five hundred feet deep.”

“You’ve done your homework.” Shon said as she sat down on a rock and took the heavy pack off her back.

"Very good Shasta and I am impressed. Your Mom is correct, you've done your homework." Seth as he sat next to Shon and took a much needed rest.

Shon smiled lifting her face up to the sun, the breeze playing with her hair. She sighed happily. “How about camping here for the night. Plenty of dry wood for a fire, fresh water from the stream, swimming in the lake and a view of the stars tonight. What say you guys?”

Shasta clapped her hands, “I brought marshmallows and chocolate and..” she delved in her pack and brought out a bottle of wine. Walking over to Seth she handed it to him. Shon raised an eyebrow. “I though you would both enjoy that together when I am asleep, you can do the things adults do because I sleep very well.” She smiled a smile full of mischief. “Apart from when mummy shouts.”

Shon’s face flamed scarlet. “I..” “Erm!”

Seth accepted the bottle of wine. "Um, thank you Shasta." he managed as his face blushed scarlet at her mention of Shon's shouts.

Shon looked at her husband. “I think we should let Shasta drink the wine!” She whispered laughing softly.

Shasta suddenly threw her arms round Seth’s neck and kissed his cheek. “I love you dad.” Then she did the same to Shon and said something that almost made Shon’s heart stop. “I don’t know how long I will be here but for as long as I am I love you, always have done.” Shasta jumped up. “I’m going to collect wood for the fire,” she exclaimed excitedly and ran off up the beach her arms already full.

Shon stood and walked to the water, looking out over towards the mountains her heart and mind conflicted by what Shasta had said. Tears appeared in her eyes and she wiped them away angrily her enjoyment of the sweet moments gone.

Seth walked down to Shon and stood next to her. "Accept the moments and treasure them." He said simply.

She put her arm round his waist. “I think that any moment Hela will appear and take her from us, why did she grant my wish Seth. Not through any altruistic nature. I wish I could ‘accept things’ but my Vulcan side keeps trying to look at it logically.

"You can't think like that love. You are cheating Shasta and yourself of happy moments as well as making wonderful memories. Don't question why Hela did what she did, just accept it and be happy for Shasta and yourself." Seth answered with a kiss to Shon's cheek.

Shon nodded, “I am trying Seth but I look at her and all I see is her burning. I feel so happy that she is here and we get a chance to be a family and I love you both more than anything. I want her to love you, which I think she does but she hardly knows you. I don’t mean that in a bad way anyone would love you.” Shon laughed. “I imagine that is why you are so good at your job.”

“Mom, Dad!” Shasta called. “What are you two doing? see the sun is setting, I have enough wood for a bonfire and the tents need setting up and I’m hungry.”

We're watching you!" Seth replied. "We thought you were going to put the tent up." He teased Shasta before returning his attention to Shon. "I love you both. Shasta is wonderful. I love her and I hope she loves me." He gave Shon a squeeze. "Listen to you, maybe you should be the diplomat." He quipped.

Shon laughed, “I have far too much going on to do your job as well. Thank you….for everything, for loving me and giving me another chance at the love of a family. You could so easily have walked away from us.”

Seth shook his head, "No, I couldn't Shon. That isn't me. I love you and Shasta. I don't cut and run. I'm here for the long haul. We're all in this together." he hugged her close. "No thank you and Shasta for allowing me to be part of your family."

Shasta stood looking at her parents hands on her hips. “Somehow I feel like we are the teenagers” Shon whispered to him. “Let’s go light the fire and put the tents up before it gets dark.” Shon walked over to the very impressive fire Shasta had built and lit it. “Do you want your own tent Shas or sleep in ours?”

“Mom I have my own tent and I can put it up as well.”

Shon nodded suddenly feeling tired. She had been feeling tired a lot lately and sick along with it. She had a drink of water and felt a little better sitting down in front of the fire. “Are you putting our tent up Seth?” She asked.

Seth chuckled at the sight of Shasta looking at them with her hands on her hips. "She's certainly got the look down pat." He whispered to Shon as he looked at her closely. "Are you alright?" he asked and then added, "Going to do that right now."

She nodded and lay back on the sand watching the embers from the fire like little fireflies heading towards the setting sun. Shon sighed with happiness as the breeze murmured through the trees sending its breath into the water, causing silver ripples to work their way out onto the surface of the lake. The cry of an eagle late with his prey could be heard heading towards his eyrie in the mountains. She felt as though the world was holding its breath to retain that one moment for her to remember forever smiling her eyes closed and she slept.

Seth had their tent sent up in no time. When he looked back Shon was asleep and he decided to let her sleep for a bit. "Shasta." He whispered, "What do you say to us doing a little exploring while he let your mom sleep for bit before we have dinner?"

Shasta looked at her mother and smiled. She’s napping a lot lately have you noticed?” she asked. She reached for her blanket and placed it gently over Shon then stood. “I’m up for a little exploring dad, so long as we don’t go too far away. I was reading about it being bear country so I brought some bear spray with me.” She grabbed his hand, “so where shall we go?”

"I have noticed Shasta and I agree we won't go far." He smiled as Shasta showed him the bear spray. "That's good sweetheart but i have something better." As he reached inside his tunic and pulled out a phaser. "Don't worry, it's set to stun. As for where we should go, let's head down toward the lake and check it out."

Shasta nodded “race you!” She exclaimed and set off at a run. Suddenly she stopped and pointed. An enormous grizzly bear came lumbering out of the cloak of the woods approximately 500 yards or so away, followed by two small cubs. They were intent only on drinking from the lake. She waited for Seth to catch up. “She cannot smell us, the breeze is in the wrong direction, don’t be afraid dad.” She reached for Seth’s hand. I don’t understand why I am back, or where I have been but I know it has been a long time. Everything is very fuzzy about before but I do know I had a father and I loved him very much. I know I died and he was there and, I felt peace and love surrounding me.” She looked up at him. “I get that same feeling from you, and I promise I will love you as much as I did him.”

Seth caught up to Shasta and was about to reply when a trio of a grizzly bear and her cubs came out of trees. He gripped her hand, "I'm not afraid Shasta, I'm wary." He answered as he listened to her explanation. "Shasta, I know I'm not your original dad but I promise to love you the best I can and to protect you and your mom. As for things being fuzzy and you having died before. Don't dwell on it. Focus on what you have and the people who love you."

Shasta smiled as the bear turned, and with her cubs gamboling beside her headed back toward the forest. “Where shall we go?” She asked.

"The opposite way they are going." Seth replied matter of factly. He raised his arm and pointed down the tree line, "Let's see what we can find going this way."

She pulled Seth along with her. “Why don’t we look for mushrooms so we can have some with our supper?”

"Sounds like a good idea sweetheart, do you know what kind we need to look for?" Seth asked his daughter.

“Morelles and chanterelles grow in wooded areas like these. I made sure I researched our trip, I love mushrooms but replicated ones are awful. Will these be replicated?” She asked forging ahead to look under the low spruce branches.

"Sounds good Shasta honey, lead the way." Seth said. "If we can find the mushrooms we're looking for, we're use those and only replicate if we have to."

Shasta pushed ahead and soon collected ten large morelles. “See these have a thick creamy stalk and the top looks like a brown Christmas tree. I loved Christmas…” she paused and looked confused. “I mean I love Christmas….can we go back to mom please now?”

Seth nodded at Shasta. "Of course we can Shasta. Let's go back and see your mom and show her what you collected."

As they turned back they could see that Shon had put more wood on the fire which leaped up into the sky like a beacon, She lifted her hand to shade her eyes. As she saw them in the setting sun she waved. She sat down on the blanket and waited for them, she felt so tired and, if truth be told was looking forward to sleeping.

Shasta ran to her tumbling the mushrooms into her lap. “We saw a bear with her babies, they were beautiful mom.”

Shon smiled and kissed her. “They look wonderful, now you two I think daddy should cook the dinner please Seth” she added.

Seth was about to point out that he had put up his and Shon's tent but thought better of it and besides, he didn't mind cooking. He rather enjoyed it. "Be glad to, once you and Shasta decide what you want." He quipped.

Well Shas can clean the mushrooms, some rice would be good with that,” Shon yawned.

"Okay, rice with mushrooms what else would we like for dinner?" Seth asked as he walked over to the fire pit, preparing to lit it.

“Sausages!” Shasta exclaimed.

Shon laughed, “her favourite food, always.” She reached into her pack and brought out a large pack of fat sausages and gave them to Seth. “I’ll get some water for tea.” She uncrossed her legs, took the jug and walked to the waters edge collecting the fresh, clean cold lake water. Walking back she set the jug on the trivet over the fire. “You know I cannot do without my Vulcan tea.” She smiled looking at the interaction between the two people she loved more than anything. She covered her knees with the rug and sat watching, enjoying the family moment.

Taking the pack, Seth placed some in the cast iron skillet before closing the pack and handing it back to Shon. Moving to the fire pit, the fire was burning nicely. Placing the skillet over the fire he let the sausages begin to cook. He looked at Shon, sitting with the blanket up over her knees and mouthed "I love you" to her. Then he called to Shasta, "Shasta sweetie, I'll need the mushrooms in a few minutes, get ready to drop them in."

Shasta trimmed and washed the mushrooms and returned to Seth. She put the mushrooms down beside him and put her arms around his neck. Thank you” she whispered.

“Lovely smell,” Shon said as she sniffed the air. “This is lovely Seth, what a great idea.” She yawned and stretched. “I’m going for a long swim tomorrow morning but this evening I am just going to revel in my family.” She stood, I’ll get the plates and mugs. I brought fresh lime cordial, water, Andorian ale and fresh orange. For dessert something called key lime pie or fruit.

Soon the repast was ready. “”Maybe the bears will get hungry for our sausages?” Shasta said loading sausages onto her plate. “I missed these” she said.

Shon stopped eating.

Seth laughed at Shasta's reply. "Well, I'm not sharing mine. They will just have to get their own. Then he noticed Shon. "Shon honey, what is it? What's wrong?"

I’ll tell you later,” she shook her head slightly as if to say ‘not with Shasta here’. She smiled, “you two must have expelled a lot of energy on your walk to be enjoying so many of those sausages, but, I do admit to being partial to these beautiful mushrooms our clever daughter found.” The sun had finally dipped below the horizon and the stars shone bright in the sky. Shon lay back her elbows propping up her head. “My grandfather used to take me out to view the stars every night, the Big Dipper, the great bear, Ursa Major, Orion’s Belt, far more romantic than their real names.” She sighed. “So much has been replaced by technology and become legend, things we should not forget, mysteries that will always be so. Just then a large winged owl flew passed them low and swift it’s cry making Shasta jump. She dropped her meal and back peddled towards Seth hiding behind him.

Seth gave a slight nod to Shon, letting her know he understood. He looked up at the night sky. I can remember lying in our backyard and looking up at the stars. I never dreamed I would be out among them." He stopped as Shasta back peddled into him and then hid behind him. "Shasta sweetie, it's okay, it is just an owl, nothing to be frightened of.'

She buried her face in Seth’s jacket. “No, No you don’t understand it’s her!” She began crying.

Shon hurried over, “sweetie it’s okay we are here and will not let anything get you.” Shon swallowed knowing what Shasta’s response would be to her next question but, she had to ask it. “Who?” she asked.

Shasta stopped crying “Hela” there was silence.

Seth's blood ran cold at the name Hela. but he remained calm for Shon and Shasta. "Why is she here?"

Shon caressed their daughter’s hair. “Tell us little one?” She asked softly.

That’s how she used to come to me, in my dreams, always in my dreams. I had so many dreams when I was asleep. Mostly good ones about you and my other dad. Then they began to get worse, always the owl there, watching. Then she began to speak to me dreadful things. Things about death and how I was dead.” Shasta began to sob as she gulped out her next words “then in one dream she told me I could live again, be with you and a new dad but that she…would take… me…back…one day.”

Shon stood, full of rage and threw her arms up into the sky “HELA” she screamed “HELA” then she realised she was scaring her daughter more. Shon sat down her anger spent. “It was just an owl in a holodeck program wasn’t it Seth” she whispered.

"That day isn't today, Shasta." Seth said with a ll the conviction he could muster. He nodded to Shon, "Nothing more than a big old owl. Nothing to be worried about." He reassured her and Shasta.

Shon sat cuddling her tea as they ate their meals. “I’ll just set up the perimeter alarm” she said as she unrolled the length of tape in a large circle around their camp. “In case any sausage loving bears decide to visit us during the night.” She smiled laughing. “Ready for bed yet?” She asked Shasta.

“Not just yet, I want to sit with dad, I want him to tell me some of his diplomatic stories, call it a bedtime story.” Shon’s heart ached as she looked at the pair of them together but maybe she had be wrong to ask Hela for such a gift. She immediately felt sick and stood. “I’m just going into the woods for a minute.” She said quickly. Entering the woods a few feet she vomited as quietly as she could then stood wiping her mouth. The smell of the spruce was refreshing and she immediately began to feel better. She would tell him tonight she decided.

"Well then, say no more. Pull up a rock Shasta sweetie and I'll tell you of my dealings with the Tholians." Seth said with a smile even as his eyes were on Shon as she darted into the woods as he began his story for Shasta.

Shasta had seemed much happier when she went to bed. Safe inside her sleeping bag snug in her tent she was soon asleep. Shon smiled as she remembered hearing Seth and Shasta laughing together over his story. She realised that she knew very little of what her husband did. They sat in front of the fire watching the flames as she sipped peppermint tea Seth’s arm around her, her head resting on his chest. Darkness surrounded them but it was natures darkness and it felt good. “I know I tell you a lot but I love you” she said to him.

Seth sat with Shon by the fire, Shasta had gone to bed. This was heaven to him surrounded by a woman who loved him as well as daughter who loved him as well. As far as he was concerned, he was the luckiest man in the universe. Life didn't get any better than this. "I love you too Shon, very much." He said quietly. He paused and then continued, "Now, what did you want to talk to me about?"

“Okay, there is no real way to segue into this, I’m pregnant. I don’t know how it happened….well okay I do of course, but I was told I would never be able to become pregnant after I was burnt in that fire. But, I am…” she sat silently. “Say something, please.”

Seth did the opposite. He didn't say anything. he showed her how he felt. His arms encircled hers and he kissed her deeply and lovingly. As the kiss broke, only then did he talk. "I think that is fantastic Shon, sweetie. I couldn't be happier. How far along are you?"

“Six weeks give or take. I wasn’t sure you wanted children, I mean I think I did mention it, that I was told I could not have children. I am so glad you are happy. You have gone from being a single man to married with a twelve year old and a baby on the way, all within six months…..oh no, what will the Captain say? he did not seem happy when Callie told him she was pregnant now I have to tell him his ACMO is also.” Shon stopped and looked at Seth. “I am sorry my love, you know when I get nervous I talk a lot, I shall remember this moment and tell it to our grandchildren.”

"I'm thrilled Shon darling, absolutely thrilled. Shasta is a wonderful daughter and now having a baby is just icing on the cake." Seth replied with a grin. "As for the captain not being happy, he'll just have to learn to accept it. This is strictly a personal decision between you and I. I'm sure Commander Grayson and Callie felt the same way. Captain needs to understand it's a baby not some invasive alien life form looking to take over the crew." He bent his head to kiss her, "I'll never say you talk to much Shon and why are you nervous? Did you think I would not be happy about this?"

She watched the sparks from the fire leap up into the sky. “With complete candour yes, I was worried you might not want this especially now Shasta has returned, it is a huge responsibility and may have wide ranging repercussions. I may need extra medical care to go to full term and I may have to go to Vulcan and, what if something happens to me, you would be left with a baby and a young girl just into her teenage years….it just does not seem fair to you.” She hung her head and cried softly. “And then there is the extra emotionality of the pregnant woman..” she laughed.

"Shon my love, my life. I told you; I love you. Whatever comes along with this pregnancy I am here. Whatever I can do to help Shasta, I'll do it. I'll even put up with the extra emotionality of a pregnant woman." The last said with a bright smile.

She laughed softly, “I could not ask for anything more my love, I shall treasure this moment for all my life….” She noticed something then out of the corner of her eye behind the flames of the fire. The mother bear had returned and was sat on her haunches looking at them. Shon did not sense any aggression from her. In fact quite the opposite. “Look” she whispered to Seth.

Seth's eyes went to where Shon was looking and they widened in surprise at seeing the large mother bear. "Oh my gosh!" Seth whispered. "That is amazing. I've never seen or heard of anything like this before."

“Neither have I, it is almost as though she gives us our blessing.” The bear huffed, lay down and rested her head on her paws her liquid brown eyes closing as her two cubs gamboled up and lay down beside her yawning. The family were soon asleep. Shon, Seth and Shasta were in no danger. Shon settled down in Seth’s arms watching the flames and the sleeping bear family. Her eyes slowly closed into a dreamless sleep, safe.

Seth held Shon as she slept. He watched the bears as they too slept, and he felt no danger from them. Quite the opposite, he felt a peace and tranquility from them, a shared trait of family and the love it brings. He smiled at the mother bear. "I know how you feel mom. Your family is your world, and you would fo anything to protect them. I feel the same way about my family."

Dawn was just beginning to break when Shon woke. She figured Seth must have put a blanket over her whilst she slept and kept the fire up because she was warm. Still wrapped in his arms she watched him sleep his face calm and clear. Gently she slipped from under the blanket and checked on Shasta in her tent still fast asleep, Shon smiled as she could hear a faint snore coming from her daughter. The bears had obviously gone off to look for breakfast and the birds had begun their dawn chorus. She looked towards the lake, beckoning her to delve into its deliciously cold depths it looked calm and blue. She stepped over the alarm and began to remove her clothes as she walked. The sand became smooth and firm between her toes and she shivered in the morning breeze. She paused as she ran her palm over her abdomen. “I think you will love to swim my little one. She looked back at the quiet camp and wished life could be like that forever. Calm and warm, protected and full of love.

Her toes touched the water and she gasped, it felt ice cold as she walked slowly in until the water was around her waist. She took a deep breath and dove in kicking out towards a large rock jutting up from the water. She was a good, if not spare swimmer and she reached the rock in a minute. She put her foot on the ledge and climbed. The sun was already beginning to caress her body as she sat there.

Seth slept until some inner mechanism alerted him Shon was no longer in his arms. Getting up, he looked around and his eyes fell on the line of clothes leading from the camp. He checked on Shasta who was still asleep. Exiting the camp, he walked towards the lake, picking up the clothes as he did until he reached the edge of the lake where he saw Shon sunbathing on a rock. "Good morning love." He shouted out to her.

She stood on the slippery rock waving, “come on in, it’s very refreshing!” She called as she slipped off back into the water. The rock underneath was sharp and she felt her head connect with it and, for a minute was dazed.

Seth was waving back, then he saw Shon slip off the rock and hit her head. Not hesitating, he kicked off his shoes and dove into the water, reaching her in no time. "Shon! Shon!" He said worriedly. "Are you alright my dearest?"

She nodded, “I am fine just a headache and a little cut.” She trod water as the daylight spread across the lake. “Your clothes are all wet!” She laughed. “What shall we do today?” she whispered in his ear.

He grinned and blushed. "It's okay, they will dry." He chuckled softly. "As to what to do today. I think the first thing we need to do is get you back into some clothes."

She smiled, “I was rather hoping you would get out of yours?” she said.

Seth smiled, "I can do that and happily." He said as he began to take off his shirt. "One question, are you not worried about Shasta waking up and seeing us like this?"

Shon nodded, “I suppose you are right, although nakedness around my daughter between us has never been a problem. Let’s swim back and prepare breakfast, I just got carried away, you do that to me you know.” She smiled as she trod water.

"I think I am." Seth said simply. "Breakfast sounds great." he admitted. "I'm glad I have that effect on you Shon, you know how I feel around you.." He smiled in return, following her back into the water.

Shon dressed quickly once she got to the shore and checked on Shasta who was just waking up. Shon cuddled her daughter rubbing her head. “Good morning sleepyhead your dad and I have already been for a swim and…” she paused for effect..”you missed mamma bear and her cubs, they came to the fire last night and fell asleep not feet away from your dad and I. We slept out under the stars. So, get up and help with breakfast.” Shon wriggled out of the tent to see Seth building up the slumbering fire.

Shasta shouted from the tent “dad did you see the extra wood I collected last night, and what’s for breakfast I’m starving.”

"Yes Shasta, I saw it and i am using it as I cook breakfast. We're having, bacon scrambled eggs, some biscuits and oh yes sausages." Seth said with a chuckle.

Shasta scrambled out of her tent and threw her arms around Seth and hugged and kissed him, “good morning dad.” She grabbed the plates from the night before and hurried down to the lakeside to wash them.

“Don’t go in Shas!” Shon called, hyper vigilant. It was as though she saw Hela around every corner and it was taking a toll on her hiding it from them. Last nights episode had brought it to the surface again. She stood and watched her until she was almost back at the camp.

“Plates, cutlery, mugs for tea.” She set everything down, her stomach rumbling as the smells of the cooked sausages rose into the air. “I l think sausages are the food I missed the most.”

Shon stood and walked away for a few yards looking towards the mountains in the distance.

"Shon? Breakfast is over here darling." He called out to her. "You better hurry before Shasta gets all the sausages."

Shon returned to the fire helped herself to coffee and sat down smiling. Shasta was already tucking into her breakfast as though she had never eaten. She looked at her daughter and husband eating and talking and enjoyed the moment. They seemed to be forming a bond which she had hoped for. In the background of her mind Hela always lurked and Shon decided that she would talk to Callie about it. In a way her worry was setting her back from throwing herself into the family moment. “So, you two look as thick as thieves. Any ideas about todays shenanigans?”

Seth looked up from his plate, "Haven't made any plans yet Shon, wanted to get your ideas on what to do today."

“Hmm.” She sipped her coffee and pinched a sausage from Seth’s plate. Chewing steadily. “I think we should let our daughter choose but, remember I have that ‘team building’ holodeck exercise in a few days.”

“Is that why you are reading that book?” Shasta asked.

Shon nodded “my fav…”

Shasta rolled her eyes and interrupted her. “Yes mom your favorite book ever Lord of the Rings!” She laughed as Seth and Shon joined I . “I would like to hike up to the Burnberry waterfall and spend the night on the plateau. They say it’s so much nearer the stars the view is amazing. Tad..he’s a boy in my class. Tad’s mom works in astrometrics and she has promised to let me go and have a look. I’m really interested in it.”

"Sounds like a good idea Shasta though I was hoping for some hiking and a little fishing." Seth answered as he watched Shon pinch a sausage from his plate.

Shon raised an eyebrow “I wasn’t aware I had married a fisherman.” She said. “I might not have said yes.” She looked serious and finished her sausage. “I have to fine you another sausage for that.” She laughed as she removed his last sausage from the half empty plate on his lap. “However I do believe there is a lake on the plateau that has wonderful lake trout. Or at least it says so on my PaDD. As this trip is for all of us I think we should just hike up to the plateau where dad can do his fishing, I can read my book and then we can watch the stars together. It should take us about two hours to get there if we pack up fairly soon.” She looked at both of them.

Shasta nodded as she could not speak with a mouth crammed with food.

"You are going to bait my hooks Shon, keep fresh bait on them. Nice juicy nightcrawlers, some sausage or whatever we think of to catch some of those lake trout. Then....." and he winked at Shon, "Shasta can fillet them so I can pan fry them for dinner."

Shon pulled a face, “you can bait your own hooks Seth Travis, besides there may not be any sausages left. I just have this craving for them. Right, quick finish, pack up and let’s get out of here before the sun gets too hot.” She reached over and kissed Shasta on the head then looked at her husband. “What’s a night crawler? I don’t think we have them on Risa or Vulcan.”

“I think it’s an insect mom.” Shasta said already heading to her tent disappearing inside.

“And you!” She said pushing him over and falling on him. “You deserve a kiss and a promise for later.” She whispered.

“Mom, Dad ewee!” Shasta exclaimed from her tent.

"Wrong Shasta, a nightcrawler is a big fat juicy earthworm." To Shon he whispered, "Going to hold you to it Shon. If you ate all the sausages, its okay, I can use bacon." Seth answered as he began packing up their camp.

Sho washed the dishes and put out the fire, packed their gear as Seth dismantled the tents. They set off up the trail a few minutes later. Shon looked back at the lake’s surface glinting in the sunlight and signed she would have liked to stay there. The sun rose high in the sky as they moved uphill. Sometimes the path was smooth, other times rocky but the higher they climbed the better the views became. An hour later they stopped for a drink Shon breathing heavily. Now they could see the plateau rising above them. Shon sat, “I’m going to rest here for a bit.” She said as Shasta began exploring. “Are there snakes here?” She asked Seth worry in her question.

"Yes Shasta, rattlesnakes. However they tend to avoid people and only strike if you antagonize them. So, watch where you are walking and don't stick your hand into any holes." He looked to Shon, "Are you alright? I mean besides being pregnant. You seem off."

“I’m sorry Seth, I am feeling the heat more, I think because of the pregnancy but I am also nervous about this team building holodeck exercise he has us going on next week. You know me, sometimes I get ‘feelings’ about things and I have a ‘feeling’ about this. I’m also concerned about Shasta and her memories of Hela. There is much she is not telling us and I am expecting Hela around every corner so much so that I have been unable to meditate.” Shon took a gulp of her water. “You and our baby are the only normal I have in my life currently.”

"No, don't apologize Shon. I want to know what you are thinking and feeling. What are you nervous about sweetie? Just be you and everything will be fine." He paused and spoke softer, "I share your concern about Shasta, well more specifically Hela. I think Hela is playing mind games with you. I'm not saying don't be concerned but you can't let it rule your life, look what it is doing to you." He reached out and took her hand and gave it a gentle squeeze. "We're in this together Shon."

She squeezed his hand back. “Something bad is going to happen next week. I feel like telling the Captain I cannot go and making an excuse up but, I can’t let anyone down.”

“No rattlesnakes” Shasta said as she came round the corner. “Bit it looks like the path gets smoother. Come on you guys!” Shasta took off up the hill.

Shon stood and shouldered her pack. “Right then, let’s get there.

Seth smiled at Shon at Shasta's declaration. "Right, see no rattlesnakes. best not keep Shasta waiting." As Shon stood he moved to her, "Relax Shon, enjoy yourself. Everything will be fine."

Shon walked on her heart increasingly heavy. She continued to think about Hela and the possible repercussions. They arrived by the lake the plateau a little way above them and decided to make camp there. Shasta threw her pack down and began to collect firewood whilst Shon put their tents up. “Go do your fishing Seth” she said not wanting any interaction with either him or Shasta. Shon needed to be alone.

Seth started to say something but stopped something in Shon's voice made him stop. He instead turned to Shasta. "Shasta, you want to try your hand at catching some lake trout?"

Shasta pulled a face, “really dad! I don’t want to touch worms or take the insides out of fish.” She looked towards Shon who was walking away upwards to the high plateau. “I’d rather go with mom.”

Seth sighed and shook his head, "Go." he said simply even as he silently vowed never to mention fishing again while in the company of Shon and Shasta.

Shon found a place on a smooth cool rock that overlooked the lake and sat down. Crossing her legs she tried to begin her preparation for meditation. She attempted to first remove any extraneous sounds, then the same with her thoughts. She wished Valev was here to help but she had not heard from him since the wedding which seemed such a long time ago. For some reason her thoughts were preoccupied with death lately, not really surprising she thought due to the return of Shasta to her and the possible price that might warrant. She tried again, relaxing into her thoughts but, again she saw Hela, clearly this time asking her for another death to replace the rebirth she had given. Shon offered herself in her thoughts and knew that she would give herself up to death if it meant Shasta could live. She knew the bond that was developing between Seth and Shasta that would last a lifetime and that was enough for her. She felt so tired, She knew herself to be fit and surely pregnancy would not make her feel like this? ……….. next thing she knew she had been asleep as the sun had begun to sink into the evening. She sighed, stood and made her way back to the camp.

Seth sat on a fallen tree by the lake. He wasn't fishing, didn't seem as much fun to do it by himself. Plus something was definitely off with Shon and it wasn't her being pregnant. He was willing to bet it was Hela and her wanting Shasta. "Over my dead body." He softly whispered. Suddenly within his head was a menacing laugh cold and callous. *Be careful what you wish for human.*

Shon headed over to Seth where he sat on the log, put her arms round his neck and hugged and kissed him. “No fish?” She asked smiling.

Seth put an arm around her, holding her close and kissed her. "No fish Shon." He answered simply as a smile appeared on his face.

“Thank Surak!” she exclaimed. “I’d rather have sausages, it’s just the thought of eating something that was just alive, but it’s all replicated and created by photons…” she stopped and looked at him, “where’s Shasta? She was staying with you?” Panic rising in her voice.

"Said she didn't want to touch worms or fish, that she was going to be with you." Seth answered, rising from the log and calling out "Shasta! Shasta!"

“No I meditated then I slept. Shasta, SHASTA” Shon cupped her hand to her lips as she ran towards Shastas tent.

“Why are you two shouting?” Shasta appeared wet from swimming.”

Shon ran over to her and knelt, her tone angry.”don’t you ever do that again.” Then she did something she had never done before and something very unlike her Vulcan side. She began to shake her daughter.”

Shasta began to cry, “no mom, don’t, you’re hurting me! I’m sorry.”

Seth was up in an instant at Shon's side. "Shon!" He commanded, "Shon! Stop it, you are hurting Shasta. Let her go."

Shon stopped as she realized what she was doing.

Shasta pulled away from her into Seth’s arms. “I hate you!” She said, “I would rather be dead again, you let me die, you let me and dad burn to death.”

Shon swallowed and backed away, “I….I tried baby, I really….” She turned and ran back into the tent.

“Shasta! That was a terrible thing to say to your mother. You know she loves you and she loved your father and for you to say you wish you were dead again, is mean and hurtful not only to your mother but me as well. I know you are angry but that was uncalled for young lady. Come with me, you are going to apologize to your mother and she will apologize to you." Seth told her.

Shasta nodded numbly and allowed Seth to take her to their tent. Shon looked scared but opened her arms as Shasta ran into them. They both began to cry. “I love you mom,” Shasta cried. “I am so sorry, it’s as though there is someone always in my mind telling me, whispering to me. I know you tried and I love you for that. “ Shasta looked at Seth, I love you too, you are my dad and you make me happy.”

Shon remained quiet still appalled that she had laid her hands on her. “I think we both need to see Callie when we get back, maybe she can help us with our feelings.” Shon didn’t mention the feeling that someone else was manipulating things from afar.

Seth watched as the two people he loved more than anything cried and made up. He beamed as Shasta spoke to him, calling him her dad. "I love you too Shasta honey." he looked at Shon. "I love you with every breath I take Shon. You complete me. You are my soulmate." As he opened his arms wide to hug both Shon and Shasta.

“I promise Iwill never again touch you like I just did baby, we are so lucky to have this second chance and to share it with you.” Shon looked at Seth her eyes telling him exactly how she felt about him.

Shasta broke from the hug, “I’m sorry about ruining your fishing, if you like tomorrow I will help you with the worms…..but now, can we have some make up sausages!”

Seth smiled broadly at his daughter and Shasta was his and Shon's daughter. "You didn't ruin my fishing, Shasta. I want you to enjoy yourself. Don't worry about the worms. As for make up sausages, we sure can! Let's get a fire going."

The late afternoon sun began to loose its strength at the very same time the Travis family bond became stronger. Whatever happened they would face it together as a family. Seth, Shon and Shasta sat round the fire eating sausages. Seth began to tell dreadful jokes and Shasta laughed so much she had to stop eating. Shon sat happily listening and thinking about their child growing inside her. Then a sudden insight flooded the Vulcan part of her brain, one word TWINS.