Title: Thine Own Self 
Author: Ainzfern 
Series: DS9-M/U 
Code: MU Garak/Data 
Rating: NC-17 
Disclaimer: Paramount owns STAR TREK ... etc and so on and so 
forth! My only pay here is personal joy 

Summary: Lieutenant Commander Data of the Federation allows 
himself to be captured in order to retrieve some stolen 
technology from the Alliance. Once on Terok Nor, he becomes 
the personal property of the First Officer, Gul Garak. In the 
process of trying to bend this new and unusual acquisition to 
his will, Garak comes to realize a few painful truths about 
himself and what *true* loyalty really means.

Feedback: Yes please! All comments welcome. 
ainzfern@hotmail.com

Author's Note: My copious thanks to Julie for doing the BETA 
and for checking over my Data. I grovel, I worship!

***AU Note:*** 
I will let my brilliant BETA, Julie, say a few words at this
point RE Data's emotion chip: [Brief emotion chip history post-
TV series:  Generations:  Data gets too emotional and fuses his
chip to his neural net so he can't remove it.  In a mysterious
scene apparently on the cutting-room floor, Bev figures out a
way to remove it, but he decides not to.  First Contact:  He can
turn the chip off and on by a flick of his head, but the Borg
Queen breaks in and turns it on. Insurrection:  He somehow
decides to take it out and leave it in his quarters or wherever.
Nobody knows whether Geordi put it back in or not, and you can't
tell from Spiner's acting either. I don't think anyone told him
either way.]

***For the purposes of this story, Data *has* the chip in and
can remove it with the help of an engineer who knows what he's
doing, ie, Geordi.***

This story is set while the Alliance still holds Terok Nor.

I have also given Gul Garak a, ah... shall we say, certain
sexual peccadillo? It's something I've not tried before but I
have seen other stories where something similar has been done
and I found it quite <PANT> interesting...

= = = = = = = = =

"This above all: to thine own self be true" 
– Shakespeare

Thine Own Self

TEROK NOR: 

"It's odd. I've not seen anything like it before. It came
through the wormhole, you say?"

"Yes, Intendant."

"Hmmm." He watched unblinkingly as she sighed and stepped
closer to the bars of the dank little cell, peering inside. "It
wears the uniform of the Federation."

Another joined her. The Cardassian male that had first assessed
him before calling his superior. "Indeed it does. It *says* it
came here in error."

She huffed a short laugh. "It's lying. They *always* do. It
probably just wants information."

"I imagine so, Intendant." The Cardassian paused a moment,
briefly meeting his eyes. "Do you wish to have it?"

She looked through the bars again, her red lips pursed with
thought, looking him over as if she was deciding on a new gown.
"No," she said finally. "I don't like it. I don't like its eyes.
Do what you will with it, Garak. Kill it or send it to the
processing level, it's all the same to me."

The Cardassian looked in at him again. "I think *I* might take
it, Intendant. It could be amusing and it's most certainly
unusual."

She laughed lightly. "I always knew your tastes were somewhat
more *exotic* than mine."

The Cardassian smiled at the jibe, but his pale eyes were hard.
"I shall refrain from rebutting that remark, my Intendant," he
said urbanely.

She laughed again and turned away, the sharp click of her heels
fading off as she strode along the corridor and out of the
detention unit.

"Well." The Cardassian smiled at him. "Alone at last. Would you
tell me your name?"

He straightened slightly, pulling his stance from `at ease' to
`at attention' and moving a little closer to the front of the
cell. He met the Cardassian's eyes steadily. 

With no real apprehension at all, just the strangely defined
sense of curiosity that he recalled so clearly from his earlier
days, he tilted his head slightly and considered his answer. 

"My name is Data," he said.

***** 

THE ENTERPRISE: TWO DAYS PRIOR: DOCKED AT DS9

"Ah, Lieutenant Commander, Data. Thank you for being so
prompt." Picard nodded to him as he entered the ready room.
"Allow me to introduce our guests."

The Captain indicated the two men seated on the small lounge to
one side of his desk. "This is Admiral Keoh of Starfleet
Security," Picard nodded at the tall gray haired human, "and
Doctor Mellard of the Starfleet division of technology." The
slightly younger Bajoran smiled at Data. 

Data nodded at them. 

"I've heard much about you, Lieutenant Commander," Doctor
Mellard said. "It's a pleasure to finally meet you."

"I am flattered, Sir." Data replied politely. He turned to the
Captain, raising his eyebrows slightly to indicate his interest
in hearing more.

Picard nodded to Admiral Keoh. 

The Admiral sighed and rose to his feet. "Lieutenant Commander,
I'll get straight to the point. We have summoned your presence
because we would like you to accept a mission of extreme
importance."

As his neural net processed the Admiral's words, Data's emotion
chip responded appropriately. A sharp surge of anticipation rose
in the android's chest, his heart rate increased slightly. 

Not so long ago, Data would have found such a surge disturbing,
but as his neural pathways had become adapted to the presence of
the emotion chip, he had learned that such feelings were
entirely natural, indeed a necessary part of life now as a fully
sentient being. Now that he knew what it meant, he relished the
change. 

"I see," he replied dutifully. "I assume you are prepared to
brief me?"

"We are." The Admiral drew in a deep breath. "Three days ago,
the main lab of the Starfleet division of technology was broken
into. A certain program, design specs to be exact, was copied
and taken from the installation. Our people pursued the suspects
to the wormhole here in Bajoran territory and observed them
entering."

"They did not emerge on the far side," Doctor Mellard
continued. "We assessed their warp signature and we are almost
certain that the thieves originated from the Mirror Universe."
He smiled grimly. "There was of course another reason for our
theory..."

Data tilted his head slightly, awaiting more information.

"One of the suspects was identified as *me*." The Doctor shook
his head. "That's how they were able to access the installation."

"It would appear that our doppelgangers have been spying on
us," Picard added ruefully.

Data looked at him for a moment, internally verifying the word.
//Doppelganger...Mirror image, twin, copy.// "I see, Sir."

"What we want *you* to do, Lieutenant Commander, is locate the
stolen program and destroy it." The admiral took over the
narration again. "Now that we are aware of the Alternate
Universe's forays into our realm, we can take steps to ensure
that it doesn't happen again. But for now, it is vitally
important that the specs that were stolen are rendered useless
to them. This type of technology has *no* place being in the
hands of the Alliance. Doctor Mellard had created a virus that
we will place within your network. It will lie dormant until it
is uploaded into the specs program. Once there, is will scramble
the program completely."

Data considered it carefully. "What is the nature of the
program?"

"Specs for a new class of Starship, Lieutenant Commander Data,"
Doctor Mellard told him. "Point to point jump capacity by means
of temporary stable wormholes. The potential benefits are almost
limitless."

"*But*, in the hands of someone like Intendant Kira of the
Alliance, a potential distaster. One that could shift the entire
balance of power in the Alternate Universe." The Admiral began
to pace. "The only reason we haven't seen mass forays from the
Alliance into our universe is because they are so caught up with
fighting amongst themselves. Plus there's evidence that the
Terran rebellion is starting to step up its activities.  If
Intendant Kira is able to build a fleet with this type of
capability..."

Data nodded. "She could theoretically quell the rebellion and
then attain overall leadership, thereby freeing her to continue
her expeditions into our Universe, only with the entire might of
the Alliance behind her."

"Indeed." The Admiral looked grim. 

There was a lengthy silence. Data stared down at the floor for
a moment, a habit of deep thought that he had picked up from
Humans, but one that he found actually did assist him in
centering this judgment. He considered the possible risks, the
benefits to the Federation and his chances of success. He felt a
touch of anticipation, perhaps even slightly tinged with fear,
but it was nothing that he could not quell with the
understanding of his duty. Finally Data straightened. "I accept
the mission, Admiral Keoh."

"Excellent!" Doctor Mellard grinned with relief. "You *will*
have *some* time to work with. Fortunately, the program was
encrypted. It will take our thieves a while to break through the
encoding. Hopefully, you will have found and neutralized it
before that happens."

"When do I leave, Sir?" Data asked Captain Picard.

"Immediately, Lieutenant Commander. Doctor Mellard will prepare
the virus for you now." 

The two guests moved towards the exit. "We will meet you in the
transporter room shortly, Lieutenant Commander. And thank you,"
Admiral Keoh said softly.

Data nodded, feeling his internal excitement building slightly. 

"Stay a moment, Data," Picard murmured as the two men left. "I
have something I wish to discuss with you."

"Of course, Captain."

Picard sighed, then squared his shoulders. "I don't have to
tell you that this mission will be extremely dangerous. This
universe you'll be entering is, by *our* standards, an appalling
place. You will most likely see things that will disturb you
greatly, and you may be called upon to take actions that you
would not normally take." The Captain's face was very somber.
"And while I have *every* faith in your ability as an officer, I
would strongly suggest to you that for the duration of this
mission, you remove your emotion chip. We have no way of knowing
how they will react to someone like you..."

"An android, Captain?" Data nodded knowingly.

"Indeed. We do know that advanced artificial life forms are
unknown in the Alternate Universe. I suspect that you will be
viewed as a new and different species and treated as such."

"And you feel that removing my emotion chip will allow me to
proceed more efficiently?"

Picard nodded. "I do, Data. I would normally *never* ask you to
do this, but it's an advantage that we can't afford to pass
over."

Data spent a moment watching the fish tank while he thought on
Picard's words. He didn't like it, but he had to admit, the
Captain had a point.

He sighed. "Very well, Captain. I agree."

***** 

"OK, Data. Just one more second... and *there*, you're done."
Geordi made one final adjustment with his tiny sonic screwdriver
and carefully closed the small panel to the rear of the
android's head. "How do you feel?"

Data considered it, running response variables through his
processor. He blinked and looked up at his friend. "I feel...
nothing, Geordi. I am, of course, satisfied that the procedure
has been successful, but I cannot confess to being... pleased."

Geordi sighed and nodded. "Well, I guess that was the purpose
of taking out your chip for the duration." The engineer packed
away his tools and stepped to one side allowing Data to rise
from the chair. 

"Thank you, Geordi." Data looked his young friend. It was an
odd sensation, having the chip shut down again after all this
time. He could acknowledge that he considered the young Human a
friend, but he could not access any level of fondness for him.
It was as if his regard for Geordi was nothing more than
cerebral. 

Geordi's dark eyes grew serious. "You be careful out there,
Data." He squeezed the android's shoulder gently. "Make it back
in one piece so that I can flick your emotions back on, OK?" His
smile was slightly shaky.

"I will, Geordi. And I look forward to becoming... myself again."

With that, Data turned and left engineering, heading to the
transporter room and beyond that the wormhole and his mission.

***** 

TEROK NOR:

"Welcome to your new lodgings." The First Officer ushered Data
into a luxuriously appointed quarters. 

In the center of the room a collection of deep chairs and floor
cushions surrounded a low table, designating the living area.
Beyond it, through the far wall were two arched doorways, one
leading to a small galley. The other, Data surmised, led to the
bathroom. 

What drew Data's attention the most however, was the large bed
set into an alcove by the side wall. It was piled with cushions
and soft comforters and heavy crimson drapes fell from the
ceiling above it, gracing the bed head. 

This was *not* the room of a prisoner. 

"Query. May I ask whose quarters these were?" Data turned to
the First Officer. 

Garak laughed delightedly. "These quarters, my pet, *are* mine.
You will be sharing them from now on."

Data digested this new information. "I do not entirely
understand," he confessed.

"Very well," The Cardassian's eyes hardened a touch. "I will
explain it to you. *You*, pet, are mine. You belong to me now. I
have little interest in who you knew or what you did before you
came here. All you need to know is that your past is irrelevant.
You will refer to me from this point on, as `My Master'. You
will do as I say, when I say it. And if you please me, you will
be rewarded."

Data nodded. "I see. I am to be chattel, a slave, one who is
without freedom."

Garak smiled beatifically. "I could not have put it better
myself, pet."

Data regarded his new Master curiously. "This does not seem to
be an appropriate arrangement. What would be the result if I
were to resist you?"

Garak blinked, his face growing cold. "You are an impertinent
little creature, aren't you? I offer you comfort and you talk of
defiance?" he asked softly, his tone laced with menace. "Perhaps
you need to better appreciate what *could* have been, hmmm? A
little basis of comparison?"

The Cardassian moved across to the comm panel on the low table
and opened the link. "Bor'Kah, Moghk. Attend please."

Almost immediately, the door to Garak's quarters opened and two
fully armed and armored Klingons strode in. 

"Allow me to properly introduce my guards, little pet." Garak
smiled at Data. "These two gentlemen will be more than willing
to help you attain clarity."

Data simply looked at them, assessing their appearance and
committing it to memory. He knew that he could easily best the
both of them if it came down to a physical confrontation, but he
decided to remain passive for now. He did not wish to expose his
true capabilities unless it was absolutely necessary. 

"Take my newest acquisition down to the ore processing level
for the day," Garak instructed amiably. "He is to fill three
complete loads. If he does not, flog him."

Bor'Kah smirked and drew his weapon. "Come, Terran," he barked
at Data. 

"Correction," Data said politely. "I am not a..."

"Silence!" Bor'Kah pressed the muzzle of his weapon against
Data's head. "Obey!"

Garak's smile grew placid. "You'll find that Bor'Kah has a
formidable grasp of the appropriate." He settled himself into
one of the deep chairs and waved an airy hand at the android.
"Enjoy your day, little pet. I shall see you in about eight
hours. If you live that long."

***** 

The door chime to his quarters sounded softly into the silence.
Garak looked up from the latest ore refinery output report with
a preoccupied sigh. 

"Come," he called out, setting his data padd aside.

Bor'Kah and Moghk entered quietly. Between them stood the
strange Humanoid. He was covered in thick black soot and smeared
with grime. That inelegant Federation uniform was singed through
in several places, mute evidence that the hapless creature had
stood a touch to close to the smelter. 

For a moment, Garak felt the familiar surge of contentment that
always accompanied the doling out of a lesson. But within a few
moments, he began to realize that something wasn't quite right. 

It was most evident in the expressions on Bor'Kah and Moghk's
faces. His normally taciturn retainers looked almost disturbed.
They kept darting brief, almost baffled looks at the filthy
Humanoid between them. 

Garak's keen eyes took a closer look at him. Indeed he *looked*
at first glance to be far worse for wear, but those strange
golden eyes were unwavering as they stared unblinkingly back at
him. His delicately featured face was serene and placid. For all
that he was covered in the results of his foray into the ore
processing level, his stance was that of a man who was totally
at ease. 

If anything, he looked curious. As if he were simply waiting to
see what would come next.

"Bor'Kah," Garak murmured. "Come forward and report."

The Klingon approached him warily. 

"Well?" Garak's eyes burned into the guards face. "What have
you to tell me?"

"Your acquisition is strong, Gul Garak," Bor'Kah replied. 

"I see. I am assuming that he was able to complete the task I
assigned him?" Garak was vaguely disappointed by that. He had
deliberately set an unreachable target, knowing that a sound
beating following close on the heels of near exhaustion would
have a far more profound effect. 

//On *most* Terrans,// Garak amended, glancing over at Data
again. 

"And more, Gul." Bor'Kah replied. "He completed five full loads."

"That is not possible," Garak said flatly.

The Klingon stiffened slightly, but other than that betrayed no
outward displeasure at the doubting of his word. "It is what
happened, Gul Garak. Your creature did not tire, nor did it
complain of harsh treatment or beg our kindness." The Klingon
shook his head and lowered his voice. "It was correct before...
it is *not* a Terran."

"I see," Garak murmured. He straightened. "You may leave us now."

Bor'Kah nodded shortly and turned to his silent partner. Moghk
shot one final, almost hesitant look at Data before leaving the
room with the other Klingon.

Garak stared at his new pet in the silence that followed their
exit.

Data stared back, polite enquiry written large on his face. 

"Come here," Garak said softly.

Data moved forward and stood in front of him, waiting. 

"Tell me what you learned from today, pet." Garak's eyes
narrowed as he carefully watched the Humanoid's grimy face.

"I have decided that I will obey your orders as requested, my
Master," Data told him.

Garak felt a small surge of satisfaction. So it *had* had the
desired effect after all. "Oh? And what led you to make this
grand decision?"

Data pursed his mouth thoughtfully. "As you explained earlier.
I have now been given a basis of comparison."

"You found your experiences in the processing level
frightening, perhaps even painful?" Garak smiled. 

"I would not say that was an accurate description, my Master.
Rather, I would confess to finding them... unpleasant.
Repetitive."

The smile froze on Garak's face. "You found it... boring?"

Data paused a moment, his odd eyes seeming to gaze inward.
"Boring. Tedious, uninteresting, dull... indeed, that would be
an acceptable simile."

"What manner of creature *are* you?" Garak asked him softly.

"I am an android, my Master."

"This is not a species I am familiar with. Are you unique to
your own Universe?"

"There are others like me."

"I see." Garak steeped back from him. "Go and wash yourself.
And get rid of that graceless uniform." He waved a hand towards
the bathroom. "I have laid out a far more appropriate outfit for
you."

The Humanoid nodded. "Understood, my Master."

Garak watched him leave the main room and then sighed, sitting
back down again. 

His new pet was an unnerving creature. An Androidian. He ran
the word around in his head, mentally tasting it. He would
certainly be challenging. There was a serene air about him,
almost a sense of detachment. 

Garak smiled bleakly as he picked up his report padd again. 

He had dealt with stubborn pets before. He would just have to


apply a little more effort. This one would be no different from
the rest. 

Just like all that had preceded him, this one would be broken
to his will. 

***** 

"Ah! Now *that* is an improvement."

Data stopped in front of his new Master and allowed the
Cardassian to look him over. 

The outfit he had been given to wear, was to *his* mind, a most
impractical garment. Made of soft, shimmering fabric, the
sleeveless vest and formfitting pants clung tightly to his
frame. The color of the outfit was deep cobalt blue. Admittedly,
it complimented the tone of his own skin very well, but the
material was not at all resilient and would not be likely to
withstand much harsh treatment. 

"You do look appealing, little pet. The color suits you." Garak
smiled at him, his blue eyes skimming over his body slowly. 

"Thank you, my Master," Data replied dutifully. "I am curious.
Why am I attired like this if I am expected to perform slave
labor for you? Would it not be more appropriate to provide
sturdier clothing?"

Garak blinked. Intrigued, Data watched the rapid play of
emotions cross the Cardassian's face. From surprise to anger and
finally amusement, Garak smiled again as those blue eyes
fastened on his face.

"And tell me, is *that* what you believe your role is to be?"

Data nodded. "That was my understanding."

"You are wrong, little pet." Garak stroked his arm slowly. The
touch was cool and dry. Not unpleasant. "I wish to keep you by
my side. You are my company, my companion. You will amuse and
divert me."

Data's neural net processed the words. "Ah. I see. I am to be
your concubine."

Garak looked at him closely. "This does not alarm you?" The
first officer's pale eyes narrowed. "It doesn't, does it? I
wonder what would?"

As if understanding that an answer was not required, the
Androidian simply waited. 

Garak ran his hand across Data's chest, down his stomach,
curling it around his hip. As he did, he closely observed the
Humanoid's reaction. After a moment, he removed his hand, a
vague look of disappointment crossing his silver face.

"I may or may not choose to take you," Garak said to him. "It
all depends on how well you please me."

"I see, my Master." Data nodded again.

"No. You don't." Garak's blue eyes were cold. "But you will."

Garak stepped away from him. He motioned Data to follow him
towards a small desk set into the wall beside the bed. 

"I have a task for you, pet." The Cardassian pulled a data padd
from the shelf above the desk. "You strike me as an intelligent
creature, and I believe it will be important for you to learn
how to conduct yourself within our society. I will not have you
embarrassing me." He handed the padd to Data. "This details the
correct behaviors for one in your position. A guide to etiquette
if you will." 

Garak smiled briefly before continuing. "Normally, my
acquisitions can not read. The task of teaching them to behave
well is tiresome and time consuming. I am assuming that you can
read?"

"Yes, my Master." 

"Good. Then read this. Learn it, memorize it." Garak leaned
against the desk. "If you do well, I will allow a certain
flexing of the various protocols."

Data scanned the padd, memorizing the information and storing
it within his vast neural net. He blinked and handed it back to
his master.

Garak stared at him, his face darkening. "I thought you said
you could read, little pet." His voice was low and dangerous.

"You are correct, my Master. I have read the information and
committed it to memory." 

Garak scrolled through the padd, selecting an entry at random.
"Tell me, what is in the contents of sub section four?"

Data repeated the chapter verbatim. Garak's eyes widened as he
read along with the Humanoid's recital.

"Section fourteen?" Garak snapped at him.

Data recited it.

"Section thirty?"

Word perfect, Data repeated the chapter.

Garak shook his head and dropped the padd onto the desktop.
"That is... a very interesting talent you have there, pet."

"Thank you, my Master."

Garak smiled and looked at him thoughtfully. "Perhaps you will
prove to be more amusing than I thought. I think I will invite
some guests to spend the evening with us. How do you feel about
that?"

"What ever pleases you, My Master," Data replied promptly,
accessing paragraph two, sub section ten.

"Good," Garak purred, stroking Data's face gently. His blue
eyes were vastly amused. "Very good indeed."

***** 

"Oh, you were right, Garak!" The Intendant's delighted laughter
echoed through Garak's quarters. "It *is* amusing, isn't it?"
She clapped her little hands gleefully, like a schoolgirl just
presented with her first pony. "Here! Let me pick another one!"

She leaned forward slightly from where she was lounging
comfortably in amongst the deep cushions on Garak's floor and
snagged a padd from the collection on the low table. She tossed
it to the golden-eyed Humanoid who was kneeling by his master's
chair patiently.

"Here, Androidian," she laughed. "Read this one."

Data caught the padd, scanned it and the handed it back to the
twinkly-eyed Alliance leader. Word perfect, he patiently
repeated the entire text, in this case an Ancient Bajoran poem
concerning the nature of truth. It would be the twenty-eighth
time he had been asked to perform this feat tonight. His
Master's guests, the Intendant, and another Bajoran named Mora
Pol, a visiting dignitary of some importance, seemed to find
Data's photographic memory endlessly amusing. 

He did of course realize that he was the object of not so
subtle derision. The people gathered around him regarded him as
little more than a diverting game, something amusing to
entertain them while they whiled away their evening of rich food
and sweet wine. He felt no resentment. Such things were distant
from him now, and his vast intelligence catalogued their
reactions to him even as he encouraged them. 

The more they accepted him as merely the First Officer's
charming little toy, then the more likely it was that he would
be able to place himself in a position to glean information from
them. 

He had been here two days already. He knew that time was
running out. 

The Intendant crowed as he finished. "Wonderful!"

Garak nodded graciously, accepting the compliment. 

"It is certainly an unusual creature, Gul Garak," Mora added,
setting his empty glass down. "I confess, I have seldom had a
more amusing entertainment. It came from an alternative
universe, you say?"

Garak raised his own glass and glanced at Data. Understanding
the look, Data rose and refilled all the guests' glasses. 

"Indeed it did, Mora." Garak nodded. "A most fortunate find as
it turned out. The creature appears to have some mental talents
that may in time prove useful."

The Intendant laughed silkily. "And of course, I'm sure you'll
verify its more *physical* talents in fairly short order too."

"There *is* that." Garak murmured, bland faced.

Mora drained his glass once more and sighed. "Alas, Gul Garak,
though you have been a most charming host, I fear I must seek my
bed. I have an early transport back to Bajor in the morning."

The Intendant stretched languidly and then gracefully rose to
her feet. "I'll come along with you, Mora." Her smile became
slightly wicked. "I have a new acquisition of my own that I
would like to spend some time playing with."

"That little Trill?" Mora laughed. "She *is* quite appealing."

"Hmmm." The Intendant lowered her lashes. "Good night, Garak.
Thank you for your hospitality." 

Garak rose and bowed slightly. He nodded his farewell to Mora
Pol as the two Bajorans crossed to the door. 

"Oh!" Intendant Kira turned back to him. "You *will* bring it
to my party tomorrow night, won't you?" She nodded at Data. "I
think it might be very well received by the delegation from
Cardassia."

Garak smiled at her. "Indeed I shall, my Intendant."

In the silence left behind after the two Bajorans departed,
Data swiftly cleaned away the night's glasses and plates and
deposited them in to the galley's recycler unit. Returning to
his Master's side, he knelt once more and waited for the
Cardassian to speak.

"You performed admirably this evening, little pet," Garak said
finally. "I didn't detect a single flicker of frustration on
that sweet face of yours. Surely you must have found being asked
to perform yet another repetitive task irritating?"

Data considered it carefully, understanding that his answer
would have to be phrased very carefully. He knew that his Master
perceived him to be of simply a different species and that his
`oddities' were merely part of his racial inheritance. It was a
belief that Data had no intention of disabusing him of. The more
the First Officer underestimated him, the easier it would be for
him to complete his task when the time came.

"On the contrary, my Master," Data replied. "I was most
intrigued by the reaction of your guests."

"Intrigued?" Garak's eyes narrowed. "They were *laughing* at
you, little pet. You had *amused* them."

"Correct." Data tilted his head and blinked, accessing the
files of his recent memories. "Was this not the intent, my
Master?"

For a long moment the Cardassian stared at him. Data could
clearly see the frustration evident in that silver face. He had
performed his appointed duty, as per instructions. It had indeed
had the desired result if Intendant Kira and Mora Pol's
reactions were anything to go by, and yet despite this, his
Master was displeased.

Most interesting.

Garak's expression changed. "Stand up."

Data did so. The Cardassian rose to his feet and moved closer,
his pale eyes staring intently into Data's face.

"Undress."

Without hesitation, Data stripped out of the flimsy outfit he
wore, draping the items over the back of the chair. Then,
straightening again, he waited. 

The Cardassian inspected him carefully, circling him slowly.
Data knew that his physical form was aesthetically pleasing. He
had been told so on several occasions. He was very much like a
human as far as outward physical characteristics went. Broad
shouldered, lean flanked, well but not overly muscled. His
artificial skin was quite similar to a human epidermis, soft and
pliant over his virtually indestructible frame, perhaps only a
little smoother. Unlike humans however, his body was hairless. 

Garak stroked his hip, trailing cool fingertips across his
lower belly. "You are a remote little creature aren't you? Are
*all* Androidians this strange?"

Data accessed his memories concerning his brother, Lore. After
a brief moment of consideration, he answered truthfully. "Yes."

"Hmmm." Garak curled the fingers of one hand around Data
flaccid penis, stroking gently. "Cold aren't you? What manner of
touch would it take to warm the fires in your belly, hmmm?"

Data's sexual subroutines began to process the sensation of
Garak's touches, responding automatically to the stimulation.
Data knew he could, if so desired, give manual instructions to
his processor and override the response, but he chose not to in
this instance. Gaining an erection at this point would only
further his own advantage. 

Garak hissed softly as he felt the member in his hand begin to
harden. "Ah yes, little pet. At least *here* is something you
like." The Cardassian tore his eyes away from his ministrations
and looked back into Data's face. "And you *do* like it, don't
you, pet?"

Data moved gently with the touch, his formidable internal data
base providing him with the perception that this slow stroking
of his genitals was indeed, physically enjoyable.

"Yes, My Master," he replied calmly. "It is a pleasant
sensation."

Garak stopped, pulling his hand away. His stared deeply into
Data's eyes as it searching for something. 

Whatever he was looking for, Data could see that he had not
found it. 

The Cardassian shook his head, his earlier frustrated
expression returning in full force. "Dress yourself," he said
flatly.

Data did so. 

"You will sleep there." The Cardassian pointed to a low pallet
set by the far corner. 

Data nodded. "If you wish it so, my Master. Shall I retire now,
or have you further use for me?"

"You may retire," Garak turned and moved across to his own bed.
"And make no noise. I am tired tonight and do not wish to be
woken."

"I understand, my Master." 

Without further word, Garak settled on top of the plush covers
and called for lights out. Data, whose eyes simply adjusted
themselves to the sudden absence of light, easily found his low
bed and sat down. 

Before he actively put himself into downtime mode, he spent
some moments considering the party that the Intendant had
mentioned this evening. He was fairly certain that this
gathering of the station officials would furnish him with the
information he would need to divine the location of the stolen
Federation technology. 

Satisfied, he closed his eyes and began the series of internal
diagnostics that would run until the morning. 

***** 

The great roar of laughter exploded outward from the group of
Cardassian merchants surrounding First Officer Gul Garak and his
little pet. Several of them even applauded. 

Initially, Data's feats of memory had been sufficient, but as
the night wore on and the guests at the sumptuous banquet began
to circulate and imbibe more fine liquor than was perhaps good
for them, several individuals began to throw suggestions as to
what Garak could get his prize to do for them. 

They moved quickly from recitation to calculus. A Data Padd was
obtained for verification and the guests began to throw random
numbers at the android. Requests for multiplication, division
and addition flowed from the group. Each instant reply was
crosschecked with the Data Padd's answer. 

Of course, he was not wrong once.

True to the Intendant's words, Data was very well received by
the delegation from Cardassia. 

A marvelous time was being had by all. 

Except, strangely enough, by the First Officer. Although
apparently basking in the reflected glory of his pet's
popularity, Data could see that the Cardassian was far from
pleased. 

His urbane smile did not reach his eyes. Although his stance
was deceptively casual, his solid shoulders were rigid and
tense, and the occasional furtive looks that he directed at his
new slave were filled with a near hostile level of frustration. 

Data had remained his usual calm and placid self throughout the
entire evening and as each new trick was performed in the same
manner, he could not help but note how his Master's eyes
narrowed, how his body temperature increased. 

The Cardassian was furious with him. 

Quite an intriguing reaction, from Data's perspective. He had
done nothing more than perform exactly as he had been told to.
However, just as he had been following their previous night's
dinner with the Intendant and Mora Pol, First Officer Garak was
displeased for some reason. 

"Ah, Garak!" The Intendant touched the First Officer's arm
briefly as she went past. "I would like a word with you if you
have a moment."

Garak bowed his head to her. "Of course, my Intendant." He
looked at Data. "Attend me, little pet," he ordered, much to the
crowd's obvious disappointment. 

As Data shifted his weight to follow his Master the Intendant
spoke, forestalling his movement. 

"No," she said flatly. "Leave it here for the moment, Garak.
Nothing will happen to it here and besides..." She frowned at
Data briefly. "It has no place hearing what I wish to discuss."

Garak nodded shortly and turned his hard gaze on Data. "Stay
*within* my sight."

"Understood, My master," Data replied dutifully as the pair
walked away.

"So, young Androidian," an elderly Cardassian merchant said
then, leaning closer to him. "See if you can wrap your little
golden head around *this* one..."

While Data continued to engage the gathered group around him
with his instant answers, the android carefully augmented his
hearing. Without turning his head away from the old Cardassian,
his aural processors filtered through the melee of voices within

the large room until he located the ones that he wanted. 

While he answered questions and recited randomly chosen texts,
Data listened intently to the low voiced conversation that was
taking place on the other side of the room.

"So, Doctor Padar," Garak was saying softly, "You have a
pleasing progress report, I understand."

"Indeed I do," an unfamiliar voice answered. "They decryption
process is nearly complete. I estimate that we will be ready to
commence work on a prototype within forty eight hours."

"Very *good*, Doctor," The Intendant purred at him. "I knew you
were the right scientist for the job."

"I thank you, Intendant," came Padar's obsequious reply.

"Do you have sufficient space, Padar? Is the facility
appropriate to your needs?" the Intendant asked him.

"Oh yes, Intendant. Your idea to convert cargo bay four was a
stroke of genius. Once the program specs are decrypted, we will
be able to build and then indeed test the prototype from that
location."

"Excellent. Garak?" the Intendant said then. "Are your people
making preparations?"

"Indeed," Data's Master answered. "My contacts on Cardassia
will be ready when we are. The ship yard will be operational
shortly."

"Then all is proceeding as we planned," The Intendant's voice
was smugly satisfied. "You have both done well. Go. Enjoy the
rest of your evening. You have earned it."

Garak was back by his side within moments, his blue eyes now
slightly preoccupied. With an almost imperceptible sigh, the
Cardassian accepted a glass of sweet wine from his slave and
once more joined the circle around him. 

***** 

First Officer Garak was confounded. 

He did not particularly like the feeling. As he stood beside
his slave, observing how the slender Humanoid placidly
interacted with all those around him, he felt the irritation
rising in his gut again. 

His slave. His Androidian. Lost not three days ago from his own
universe, placed in captivity and labeled as a possession. And
now? Now he was being deliberately put on display like some sort
of carnival attraction. Most Terran creatures would be a
gibbering mess by now. Frightened and confused, certainly
overwhelmed with the fact that they were surrounded by
Cardassians.

But the Androidian looked no more concerned than the merchants
around him. He had accepted everything that was happening to him
with a kind of calm and unshakable placidity. About the only
expression Garak had seen on that delicate little face was
curiosity. 

For Guls sake, *no one* was *that* unshakable.

Garak was honest enough with himself to admit that he did not
like the fact that he had so far been unable to provoke a
reaction from his new pet. 

He knew that logically, he ought to be grateful. This one was
obedient, tractable and well trained already. His pet did
everything he was told to do. 

But Garak wasn't grateful. He felt like he was being denied,
somehow. He felt... impotent. 

With an inward smile of malevolence, Garak resolved to change
his tactics. If the wretched little creature could not be made
to feel intimidated, then perhaps he might be vulnerable to
`boredom.'

Remembering how Data had told of finding the processing plant
unpleasant through it repetitiveness, Garak began to make plans
to place his unshakable pet on the production line for a few
days, perhaps even weeks. A repeat performance of the original
`basis of comparison' that should, all things being equal, make
his Androidian much more demonstrative in his appreciation of
his proper role. 

He would see how the cold little creature would respond to
*that*.

Feeling much improved, Garak snagged another glass of wine and
favored Data with a warm smile. 

The night had gone well. The news regarding the program specs
was pleasing and Garak now had a plan of action laid out in
regards to his Androidian. Overall, he was quite satisfied.

He would look back on this moment with irony for the rest of
his life. It would be the moment that his perceptions about a
great many things would be irrevocably altered. 

Across the other side of the long buffet table, a sudden sharp
voice rang out.

"Gul Garak!!"

The First Officer turned his head.

With whip-like speed, Data's arm snapped out in front of his
face.

In the shocked tumult that followed, Gul Garak was only
conscious of one thing. He did not hear the cry of the assassin
as the Bajoran was brought down by phaser fire. He did not see
the horrified looks on the faces of the merchants before him as
they staggered back in shock. He did not see the Intentant's
concerned expression as she rushed towards him. 

All he saw, all he was aware of, was the quivering point of the
needle sharp poniard that was currently a mere fraction of an
inch away from his left eye. 

Swallowing audibly, he flicked his gaze sideways and met the
golden eyes of his Androidian pet. 

Data had caught the poniard by the blade, snatching it in mid
air and saving his life. 

He had saved his life.

"Well, Garak," the Intendant drawled as she neared him. "It
would seem to *me* that you'd be better advised to keep *this*
one as a bodyguard, rather than a jester, hmmmm?"

Controlling his reactions carefully, Garak raised his hand palm
up and waited until Data laid the poniard, handle first across
it. 

He looked at this superior. "Perhaps you are right," he said
softly.

*****

"Are you're sure you are all right, Garak?" The Intendant
seemed sincerely concerned. After looking closely at her, the
First Officer relaxed a little more.

He was reasonably content that at least *this* time, the
assassin had not been sent by his superior. It wouldn't have
made much sense for her to try and kill him at this stage
anyway. Right now they had a common goal and she *needed* him
*and* his Cardassian contacts. 

"I am well enough, my Intendant," he assured her. "Although I
*am* vexed that my would be murderer was killed so quickly." He
sighed. "I would have liked to know which particular enemy sent
him."

The Intendant smiled at him almost fondly. "You watch them all
carefully anyway, Garak," she told him. "Even me."

"Oh indeed, my dear. *Especially* you."

She laughed delightedly and kissed his cheek softly before
turning to the door. "And so you should, dear Garak. But I'm
just as glad you're still alive." She looked over her shoulder
at him.

"As am I." He bowed slightly to her. 

"Good night, Garak." She smiled once more and quietly left his
quarters.

In the dim half-light of his softly illuminated room, Garak
turned towards his slave. 

"Why?" he asked softly. 

Data tilted his head quizzically. 

Garak walked towards him slowly. "Don't look at me like that.
You *know* what I am asking. *Why* did you save my life?"

His Androidian appeared to consider the question. Finally,
those golden eyes looked up at him again. "Because life is...
precious, my Master," he said simply.

Garak stared at him for a long moment, taking in the pleasing
lines of his body, the appealing, delicate features of his face.
Even those eyes, those strange and penetrating golden eyes no
longer seemed so alien to him. Just different. Exotic. Quite
beautiful. 

Without a doubt, he suddenly knew what his slave's next task
would be. And it had *nothing* to do with the ore processing
level.

"Come here, little one," Garak murmured.

Data quirked his head again slightly, assessing the timbre
Garak's voice, obviously curious about the new term of affection
the First Officer had just used. He walked towards Garak and
dropped to his knees as he had been taught. "May I speak, my
Master?"

Watching him carefully, Garak replied, "You may."

"I am assuming from your physical demeanor, combined with the
quality of your voice that you wish to engage in sexual
relations." The Humanoid's tone was as usual, polite and
helpful. But instead of irritating him, Garak found that it
rather pleased him. Perhaps it was some form of gratitude for
Data saving his life, or perhaps he was merely now allowing
himself to grow accustomed to it. 

Either way, and Great Guls forgive him, but he was suddenly
finding it endearing. 

He suddenly found Data endearing. 

Perplexing, but endearing. 

Still, the dispassionate part of Garak's mind reminded him, he
didn't *have* to understand him. He owned him. He was coming to
realize now that it was enough that Data was his and would do
what he was told. For all his obvious resilience, the Androidian
was pliant creature. He had missed it before but it was quite
true. It would be sufficient for his satisfaction. 

Some small dark voice in his mind suggested that Data was
deliberately *allowing* this rather than submitting because of
his nature. The thought disturbed him and he pushed it away. He
had other concerns right now.

"You are assessing my physical state, little one?" he asked,
now openly amused.

Data nodded. "Indeed. You are exhibiting all the signs of a
Cardassian male in the mid stages of sexual arousal. Your eyes
are fully dilated, your neck ridges are engorged and darkening
in color..." He paused thoughtfully. "I should imagine that the
ridges around your genitals are in a similar condition. In
addition, I have observed a significant rise in your body
temperature plus a noticeable increase in the speed of your
respiration."

Garak blinked. Whether he was more amazed that Data had noticed
all of this or that he actually *knew* what it meant, he could
not say. 

A most remarkable creature his Androidian. A very fortunate
acquisition. 

"You seem very well versed in Cardassian physiology," Garak
said softly.

"I have an entire part of my memory devoted to the sexual
practices of a wide variety of different species, my Master."
Data looked up at him with his usual earnest expression. 

He seemed utterly unaffected by the drives that were currently
coursing through Garak's body. The Cardassian found that this
fact aroused him further for some reason, knowing that his
Humanoid was not receptive, but would come to him anyway because
it was what his Master wanted. 

Garak smiled. "You memory," he murmured. "As we have seen, is a
most remarkable thing."

Data waited, patient and untouchable. His.

"Very well, little one." Garak nodded slowly. "Show me."

***** 

Data stood and guided the Cardassian towards the bed. He paused
for an instant while he fully accessed the sub file on
Cardassian sexuality. There were some fascinating techniques
there. Doctor Soong had done his research well and possibly at
great personal risk. Data was quite interested in observing how
his Master would respond to certain stimulation. 

As he carefully undressed the First Officer, Data considered
his situation. He knew the location of the Starship specs now.
All he needed was the opportunity to access it and upload the
virus into the program. 

If Doctor Soong's information was correct, and Data had no
reason to suppose it would not be, he would leave his Master in
so deep a state of sated relaxation that leaving quarters would
present little difficulty. He would complete his mission and
return to Garak undetected. 

Perhaps tonight's experiment with his Master might also furnish
him with the means to orchestrate his escape. If the Cardassian
enjoyed it, it should present no problem to initiate another
coupling once he was certain that the virus had done its job.

With a little judicious application, Data could effectively
complete his mission and return home through the wormhole
without revealing his true attributes. 

With deliberately gentle touches, he encouraged his Master to
lie down. Then he efficiently removed his own clothing and knelt
beside him. He placed a substantial number of cushions around
the Cardassian's supine form, under his head and shoulders, his
hips, the backs of his knees, providing additional support for
his body.

He began with tactile stimulation first, using only his
fingertips to trace each individual ridge, from above the
Cardassian's eyes, through to his shoulders and down his arms.
He bent his entire attention Garak. He was patient and thorough
and he would not tire or become distracted. He splayed both
hands across the hard plains of the Cardassian's breastplate,
stroking firmly upwards, carefully gauging his Master's
responses. 

The Cardassian gasped when Data's fingers dipped under the
raised edge of the armored plate, stroking against the delicate
skin there. He turned his attention to the tear shaped
indentation on Garak's chest, carefully massaging until the tiny
scales became dark and pliant. The deep guttural purring that
rolled endlessly from Garak's throat assured Data that his
caresses were having the desired effect. 

He moved on, following the sweeping ridges that trailed down
Garak's sides. His fingers gently smoothed over them where they
met again just above the Cardassian's sex. He used a
particularly soft touch as he pinched the dark and delicate
ridges adorning Garak's hipbones.

He deliberately avoided the dark, jutting erection,
concentrating instead on feathering the same careful touches
down the outside of his legs to the ankle and back up again. 

He paused for a moment to review his progress. 

Garak's eyes were heavy lidded, his breathing deep and regular.
Data knew that he would have to pay attention at this point. He
wanted the Cardassian relaxed, not comatose. 

Judging that his Master would now not be opposed to him taking
such a liberty, Data leaned down and kissed him. Softly at
first, the lightest of sips. Slowly, he increased the contact
against those surprisingly soft lips, tasting the Cardassian's
mouth with a bruising, demanding, carefully applied level of
passion. 

Before his Master could grab hold of him and possibly attempt
to reassert his dominance, Data moved on again, this time using
his mouth to follow the previous path that his hands had taken. 

He varied the pressure and intensity of his applications of
teeth and tongue perfectly, adapting the caresses for each
separate area that he covered. Across Garak's neck ridges he
used a firm, almost savage force, biting down hard along the
sweeping scales. He brought his hands into play again, firmly
massaging Garak's breastplate once more, effectively holding him
down without being obvious about it.

He spent some time lingering over the ridges on the
Cardassian's hips, gently teasing with lips and tongue until the
sturdy gray body under him began to tremble uncontrollably.

At last he turned his attention to the Cardassian's turgid sex,
grasping the base firmly in one hand and taking the quivering
member fully into his mouth. A deep groan vented from Garak's
chest as Data worked on him, making slow sucking pulls up his
shaft over and over. The android was encouraged by this, as up
until that point, Garak's vocalizations had been quite
restrained. 

As he tasted the Cardassian's male flesh, Data considered the
natural lubrication that was being secreted by the delicate
ridges of soft scales that adorned the solid erection. He
acknowledged it as slightly sweet and musky. His formidable
neural net catalogued it as pleasant. 

He settled into a rhythm easily, paying close attention to the
Cardassian's movements and the pitch of his now continuous
cries. Judging his moment, he pulled away, ignoring the snarl of
frustration that Garak vented, and used both hands to part the
Cardassian's thighs.

Accessing further information from his sexual sub files, Data
dipped the fingers of one hand under Garak's' scrotum, finding
the tiny ridges just forward of the anus that lined the opening
of a small slit in the Cardassian's body. Doctor Soong's records
had been very particular here. Within this tiny vent was the
small gland that regulated the flow of the Cardassian's sexual
lubrication. Direct stimulation of this gland produced powerful
and intense pleasurable sensations. But Data would have to take
exquisite care. The tissues of the small hidden passage were
extremely delicate. A less than careful touch would cause Garak
harm.

While he gently stimulated the fragile ridges with his
fingertip, encouraging the vent to open, Data laid one forearm
across the Cardassian's hips, using his superior strength to
keep Garak's pelvis immobile. 

His Master had fallen silent, his entire body rigid and
trembling, his breath coming in short sharp pants. Data
catalogued this information too. Apparently, even an external
caress to this area was intensely pleasurable. 

With great care and almost aching slowness, Data inserted one
slender finger into the tiny opening, feeling the heat and
slickness within the tight passage. When he felt the small
raised nub within, he began to gently work his fingertip over
it, in and out, the most delicate of strokes. 

The effect on Garak was nothing short of spectacular. A harsh,
almost shocked wail rolled endlessly from his throat. His upper
body arched helplessly and he clutched at the bedcovers with
both hands. With each gentle thrust of Data's finger, a small
amount of seminal fluid spurted from the Cardassian's penis in a
series of mini ejaculations. >From Garak's reactions, it was
apparent to Data that this was something the Cardassian had
never experienced before. 

Encouraged further, Data bent his head again to his Master's
twitching erection, enveloping it into his mouth and sucking
hard at the engorged head. His tongue glided firmly over the
glans only once, but it was enough. 

The Cardassian froze for a moment, his body jerked convulsively
once or twice, then with an earsplitting howl of pure primal
release, Garak surrendered to a shattering climax. He shuddered
and roared, his body pumping his slightly salty essence in
copious pulses into Data's mouth. His wild rhythmic shouts were
a helpless counterpoint to the seemingly endless surging of his
body. 

Only when Garak fell back again, his broad chest heaving, his
eyes dazed and unfocused, did Data carefully ease his finger out
of the Cardassian's body. Then, sitting up slightly, he lifted
his forearm away from the sturdy hips, releasing him.

He waited.   

"You restrained me," Garak panted finally.

Data tilted his head slightly. "Was it inappropriate to do so?
I apologize, my Master."

"I understood your reasoning." Garak's voice hovered on the
edge of sleep, his overloaded system yearning for recovery time.
"You will not be punished."

"Thank you, my Master," Data replied dutifully.

He needn't have bothered. The Cardassian had quite literally
passed out. 

Data completed a quick visual check of the First Officer's
vitals, ensured that he was adequately covered and cushioned,
and then slipped off the bed.

He dressed quickly and moved to the door of the quarters,
calling down the lights as he did so. Quickly interfacing with
the door control panel, Data overrode the security code and let
himself out. He scanned the corridor and darted out into the
station's night corridors.

***** 

Data located the converted science lab in fairly short order.
Unlike non-androids, he did not need to ask the main computer
for directions. He simply interfaced with a convenient port and
accessed the information. The Alliance's computer security
codes, a combination of alpha numeric, were almost laughably
easy for Data to break through. 

The same thing was true of the security doors around the
science lab.

The principle computer within the lab itself presented a little
more difficulty, but only marginally so. Standing in the dim
light, hidden in the shadows by the side wall next to the
consol, Data accessed the specs program. He uploaded Doctor
Mellard's virus and then disengaged his interface. 

He returned through the dark and virtually deserted corridors
swiftly, easily avoiding the roving security details. His superb
hearing gave him the distinct advantage of early warning. 

He quietly entered the First Officer's quarters and went
directly to his pallet on the far side of Garak's bed. 

The entire trip had taken him less than fifteen minutes.

He was satisfied with tonight's work, at least, that was what
his neural net told him. Closing his eyes, he placed himself
into downtime mode and began to run his usual internal
diagnostics to ensure that all was well with his systems.

He did not check the silent form of the Cardassian lying on the
bed across from his pallet.

He should have.  

If he had, he would have seen that those splendid eyes were
open and staring at the ceiling. He would have seen the briefest
hitch in Garak's breathing as the unfamiliar sensation of an
emotional wounding flashed through him. He would have seen the
tiniest flicker of sorrow and regret cross that silver face
before the First Officer once more closed his eyes and returned
to sleep with a soft, somehow shattered sigh.

***** 

When Doctor Padar entered the Science labs the following
morning, he had no reason to suspect that anything would be
different from the day before. He and his team were making good
progress with the program specs. As he had reported to the
Intendant the previous night, they nearly had it decrypted. One
or two more days at the most and they would begin construction
of the prototype. 

He entered his access code into the central consol.

For nearly ten minutes, he stood there, ashen faced and
trembling, frantically scrolling through page after useless page
of gibberish. Finally, still shaking his head in hopeless
denial, he came to the only conclusion possible.

The program had been sabotaged. 

It was useless.

It was gone.

He swallowed hard, considering and understanding the
implications of this fact. 

*She* would have to be told.

***** 

Cross-legged on his vast bed, chin in hand, First Officer Gul
Garak sat and contemplated his resting Androidian. 

Data slept oddly, he decided; possibly a characteristic
particular to his species. Garak had certainly never seen
anything like it before. Data did not lie down to sleep. He sat
with his eyes closed and was simply... still. No movement. Garak
could not even tell if he was actually breathing. 

"Little one," Garak said gently. 

Instantly, Data's golden eyes opened, his face alert and fully
aware. 

A most unique species indeed.

Garak met that patient gaze thoughtfully. He found himself
caught in an unfamiliar situation this morning. 

Last night. Garak shuddered sensually with the very memory of
it. Last night Data had saved his life. He had no reason to, but
he had anyway. Instead of expecting concessions, his Androidian
had then literally held him down and proceeded to give him
pleasure the likes of which he had never known.

If what Data did to him last night was common knowledge in the
Alternate Universe, then Garak could only surmise that the
Cardassians of that realm were *extremely* fortunate indeed.

But then Data had left.

He hadn't heard him leave, but he *had* heard him return. 

Why? Why did his Androidian do it? After attaining such a level
of trust, why did he sneak out of quarters?

Why did the knowledge *hurt* so much?

He knew why. Deep in his heart, Garak knew why. Because he had
been right about Data when he had briefly thought that his pet
was deliberately submitting himself to Garak's service. Last
night had proved it beyond doubt. 

Data had held him down. 

Him, a full-grown Cardassian male. Data had held him down with
no more effort that one would use to hold down a newborn Vole
pup. It had become clear to him then that his pet was far, far
stronger than *any* of them had initially guessed.

Data could have killed him last night. Easily.

He didn't. He pleasured him instead. He took Garak's helpless
prone body and made it sing in glorious rapture. 

And the First Officer had felt something bloom inside of him
that he had seldom felt before, certainly not for a slave. 

Gratitude.

And that cold place inside his chest, the place that held his
heart, had warmed a little. It had made a tiny space there for
Data to take up residence. 

And now? Now he simply didn't know. He didn't know *anything*.

He had his suspicions of course. About where and why his little
one had left him. But he didn't want to follow that train of
thought. Because if he did, if he tracked it to its logical
conclusion then it could only mean that he was foolish. Allowing
affection for a mere slave to blind him to possible betrayal.

So he would not ask.

Not yet.

"I should like my breakfast now," Garak said in that same soft
tone. "You may also eat."

Data rose to his feet. "Thank you, my Master."

Garak watched him work the replicator for a moment,
appreciating his grace, his economy of movement.

Just as Data was bringing their plates back, the First
Officer's comm line sounded. 

"Intendant Kira to Garak." The voice that came through the
consol was tight with restrained fury. 

Garak smiled. The Intendant was a little out of sorts this
morning. "Garak here, my Intendant."

"I need you in my quarters immediately."

"Oh?"

"I am placing you in direct control of an investigation into a
*serious* breach in our security."

"And the nature of this breach?" Garak's eyes followed data as
the Humanoid set the plates down on the low table in the living
area. He had hardly needed to ask. He already knew.

"The science lab was broken into last night," the Intendant
replied.

Garak rose to his feet and began to dress. "I will be there
shortly, my Intendant," he told her, his eyes still locked on
his golden pet. 

***** 

"I want them found, Garak," Intendant Kira hissed as she
stalked back and forth through her plush quarters. 

To one side of the room knelt a tiny beautiful Trill female,
obviously the Intendant's current favorite. Her huge eyes
watched with trepidation as her Mistress paced. She looked
unsure of her place, Garak could see. Not quite certain if she
should attempt to soothe the Intendant or just stay out of the
way. Upon further reflection, she also looked unfamiliar.

//A new acquisition, hmmm? Not too bad I suppose. If you like
that kind of thing.// He saw the young Trill readying herself to
stand, to go to her Mistress. He caught her eye and gave her the
tiniest shake of his head. 

Understanding, she flashed him a grateful look and re-settled
in her place on the floor.

"I will find them, Intendant," Garak assured his fuming superior.

"You had better," she snarled. "I want answers. I want
*examples* made, Garak!" Her demeanor abruptly changed, her eyes
becoming wide and deeply wounded. "I wanted that ship, Garak,"
she quavered. "I wanted it. It would have made us powerful,
given us the advantage we needed."

"I shall assemble my men and begin immediately," Garak said
kindly. He knew what tone to use, what game to play. He had been
here a hundred times before. "We will find those responsible and
we shall bring them before your wise judgment."

The Intendant smiled at him, then turned and held out her arms
to the Trill.

Receiving clear signals now, the young woman rose to her feet
and embraced her Mistress, stroking the Intendant's back gently. 

"I'll be merciful, Garak," Intendant Kira murmured. "I am
*always* merciful." She dipped one hand into the front of the
Trill's satin robe, cupping a pert breast. 

Garak nodded. "Of course, Intendant. Of course."

***** 

Garak entered his quarters and stood for a moment, quietly
watching as Data tidied about the place with his usual
efficiency. 

Why the First Officer hadn't told the Intendant of his
suspicions was a mystery even to him. Part of him was appalled,
infuriated even, that he felt his way. He was *not* Kira Nerys,
not a sensualist who lived on the extreme outside of his skin,
ready to be compromised and bowled over by the thought of flesh
and pleasure. He was more aloof, more controlled. 

So what was it about the Androidian that touched him so? Why
was he so affected by Data?

Data looked up at that moment, his golden eyes questioning.
Garak waved a hand at him, signaling him to continue. The
Cardassian moved into the room and took a seat on one of the
cushioned chairs. 

It was more than last night, Garak reflected. Last night had
merely been a tool of revelation, a catalyst to understanding.
As he continued to observe the golden Humanoid, Garak felt it
becoming clearer.

Garak would not be able to break him. He had not even been able
to bend him. Certainly Data obeyed his commands, but of his own
free will. Whether motivated by the elements of an acquiescing
nature or by simple curiosity, the result was the same. Data had
gone to the processing level because he had wanted to. He had
saved Garak's life because he had wanted to. He had pleasured
his Master into incoherence because he had *wanted* to. 

After last night, Garak now understood that there was no
possible way he could have physically forced Data to submit to
him. The Androidian was too strong. Yet he knew without a doubt,
if he simply told Data to do it, he would. 

His Androidian pet was untouchable. Curious and childlike in
many ways. Innocent somehow. But there was a part of him that
remained distant to his Master. 

His feelings.

Garak could not provoke him. He could not anger him or make him
feel fear. Did he feel affection? Garak did not know.

But perhaps he *could* be made to feel responsible. 

"The Science installation was compromised," Garak said softly.

Data stilled for a moment, put down the cloth he was using and
came to Garak's chair. He knelt by its side and looked up into
his Master's face, patiently waiting.

No fear. No concern. Not even a flicker.

Garak sighed. "The program specs for the new Starship...
completely gone. The Intendant is beside herself, little one."

Data tilted his head, his expression silently asking for
further information. 

//For what purpose, little one?// Garak stared at the sweet
upturned face. //To please me or to verify your success? Was it
you, little one? Did you betray me?// Garak shook his head and
stroked Data's smooth, cool cheek. //Was it betrayal? Can you
*really* betray a Master that does not truly *own* you?//

"We have arrested the scientists, of course," Garak continued. 

A flicker of something showed in Data's eyes. Surprise
possibly. Garak reasoned that his Androidian pet had not
expected *that*.

"They'll be executed today," Garak went on almost casually. "No
one else had access to the lab so it must have been one if not
more of them. Of course, they're all denying it, but if we
cannot be confident in *any* of them, then we must eliminate
them all. A shame, I feel... but the Intendant is quite
insistent." He shrugged.

Data was silent for a moment, then, "You must not," he said.

Garak looked at him again. "And why not?"

"Because they are innocent," Data's gaze was steady, his voice
calm and sure. "I am the one who penetrated the science
installation. I am the one responsible for destroying the
program."

"I know."

Data blinked. "But why..."

"I lied. We're not about to execute our top scientists, little
one." Garak's smile felt brittle. "We are not quite *that*
insane."

"I am assuming that you did not inform the Intendant that you
suspected me?"

Garak stood up and slowly moved to the small view port by the
bed. "You are correct," he said finally.

Data joined him. "I see." The android considered it. "Thank
you," he said politely.

"Thank you?" Garak hissed at him, his anger and frustration
rising in equal measures. "Have you *any* idea what I have done?
What I have *risked* by lying for you? My position, my
authority... my very *life* could be forfeited and all you can
say is `thank you'? As if I had just handed you some meaningless
trinket to wear?"

Driven beyond his control, Garak's temper took hold of him.
Eyes blazing, he drew back his solid arm and, getting the power
of his massive shoulder behind the blow, he swung his open hand
at Data's face.

Data caught his wrist just before impact.

The grip was firm but not painful, and as Garak struggled to
free himself, he realized that it was also immovable.

"You must not attempt to strike me, First Officer Garak," Data
intoned formally. "Such an action would invariably cause you
injury."

Garak felt the fury drain out of him. His shoulders sagged. 

"Release me," he sighed.

Data immediately complied.

"You will stay here until I return," Garak told him.

"As you wish, my Master." Data bowed his head.

"And please don't call me that anymore," Garak turned and
walked to the door. "It isn't true. It never was."

He entered the release code and let himself out.

***** 

By the time Garak returned to his quarters it was late in the
station's night. 

Data stood from the chair he had been waiting in as the
Cardassian entered and walked towards him.

Garak stopped a foot or so away and regarded him solemnly. "I
have assembled my investigative crew," he said softly. "I expect
that by tomorrow night they will have located the hastily
removed docking log from lower pylon two where a small vessel
offloaded an assault team. I should also imagine they will have
no trouble tracking their movements through the ventilation
shafts that exit near the science installation. Couple that with
one or two tiny items that our `invaders' dropped along the way,
and I would say I'll receive detailed report on how a small band
of Terran rebels compromised our security and destroyed the most
important strategic advantage that we were ever likely to have."

Data blinked, his face puzzled. "How is it that you know all
this?"

Garak smiled grimly. "Because I planted the evidence myself.
Shall we go?" He swept one hand towards the door.

"May I ask where we are going?" Data fell into step with Garak
as they moved through the dark and silent corridors.

"You will find out soon enough," Garak told him as they entered
the turbo lift.

"First Officer, I am... perplexed. You have falsified evidence
that will mislead your own investigators." Data's expression was
deeply intrigued. "Why?"

Garak stepped out into the docking ring corridor, motioning
Data to follow him. He led the android to an air lock and keyed
in the code. As the seal rolled back, he smiled again, but
sadly. He blue eyes looked deeply into Data's own.

Data's sub processors could perceive the pain in those eyes.
The android understood that it was *his* actions that had caused
it. And although it had been necessary, part of his
sophisticated neural net acknowledged it as unfortunate.  

But he had no empathy. He could not *feel* sorry.

"Your shuttle," Garak told him. "Official logs record it as
broken down and smelted. It has not been." He nodded at the air
look. "It is there. You must take it and go."

Data blinked. "Gul Garak, I have informed you that it was I who
sabotaged the science installation, indeed destroying your
chances for strategic superiority. I must confess... I do not
understand why you would now choose to help me."

Garak cupped his face gently with his big hands, once again
looking deeply into his eyes. "No. You don't, do you?" He smile
was somehow wistful. "And therein lies the reason that you must
leave."

He released Data and stepped back, his face becoming cold. "I
will allow a suitable period of time to pass before informing
the Intendant that I grew vexed with you and had you eliminated
and disposed of." Those blue eyes grew hard. "Do not *ever*
return here, Data, lest that become the truth."

With that, Garak turned and walked away.

Moving quickly, Data entered the air lock and boarded his small
craft. He powered up, released the docking clamps and turned the
little ship towards the wormhole.

Towards home.

***** 

ENTERPRISE: LIEUTENANT COMMANDER DATA'S QUARTERS:

"OK, Data." Geordi closed the access panel on Data's skull and
stepped in front of his seated friend, looking carefully into
his face. "It's done. How do you feel?"

Data drew in a deep breath as he felt the emotion chip
affecting his matrix, awareness and perception of feelings
blooming inside him where before there was nothing. 

He smiled at Geordi and released a shaky sigh. "I feel... I
believe I will be all right, Geordi. It will take a little time
to become used to it again, but having had prior experience I
believe that the transition will be easier this time."

Geordi patted his shoulder. "Good. I'm glad you're back in one
piece, Data."

"So am I, Geordi. Thank you for feeding Spot while I was gone."

Geordi cast a brief fond look at Data's cat, curled up beside
his master on the sofa. "Ah, it was nothing. He doesn't eat
much, and he listens well."

Data nodded. "I have noticed that myself on many an occasion."

Laughing, Geordi packed away his tools. He looked at Data
again, his open face becoming serious. "You sure you feel OK? Do
you want me to stay for a while?"

"No, Geordi." Data shook his head. "For this evening, I merely
wish to spend time alone to become used to the chip's interface
again."

"I understand." Geordi moved to the door. "You call me if you
need me, right?"

"I will. Goodnight, Geordi."

Data sat silently, his eyes distant and thoughtful. He absently
stroked Spot's soft fur as he pondered all that had happened. 

He had been successful. He had completed his mission, and
following the de-briefing, he had been given a commendation by
Admiral Keoh in appreciation of a job well done. 

As he sat there, he realized that he was rightfully proud of
himself. 

Unbidden, First Officer Garak's face flashed into his mind. He
spent a long time thinking about everything that had taken place
between them. He remembered every word, every glance from those
pale eyes, every touch of those cool dry fingers. 

With the return of his feelings came the burgeoning
understanding of Garak's motivation for freeing him. At the
time, he simply hadn't been able to comprehend it, but now...

He remembered the look in Garak's eyes as they had stood
outside the air lock together. 

After a while, Data sighed. He bowed his head. 

He let the sorrow come.

END 
Ainzfern...