LOVE ON THE RUN ^{© 2003-2007}

By Lessa and Takara Soong

Chapter Three

"I assume you have a plan for Argelous II?" she asked once the transport had left Risa and gone to warp.

"I always do, my love."

Training was fun, frustrating, funny and infuriating, but it did take up some of the boring trip time. Lovemaking and some sleeping encompassed the rest. Lore decided he would indulge in activating his dream program while Ja’hara slept. The ship would warn him if anything untoward happened. With his beautiful bride tucked under his chin, Lore closed his eyes and took his cognitive functions off-line.

He had not used his dream program before he met Ja’hara. She had encouraged him to try it mostly for his own enjoyment but also because she did not like sleeping alone. He had only one dream he would call a nightmare and it involved Ja’hara being taken from him by Data. This night though, he dreamed of Ja’hara. It was a hot, exciting, fun and really hot dream.

Lore awoke with an erection that had been caused by images in his dream. But there was a proximity alarm going off and it was not the one that meant they were near their destination. They both threw on some clothes as they ran to the bridge to check out what had set off the alarm. There was a ship just coming in to their sensor range.

"It's a Federation supply ship. Nothing to worry about," Lore said.  As soon as the words were out of his mouth, the comm panel lit up.

"Incoming message from that ship," Ja’hara told him. She grimaced. "It’s a distress signal, Lore."

"We could run."

"And if we do, they will note our call letters and transponder code and report us. Let me handle this, love."

She answered the hail from the ship and discovered they were in desperate need of a warp field coil. Ja’hara found out from Lore that they did have an extra so she bartered with them for the coil. Ja’hara was very skilled at negotiating with the supply ship. She was able to coax much more from them than Lore thought possible.

"Ma'am, do we have a deal now?" the supply ship captain asked desperately.

"Almost. There is one last thing. Do you have any champagne on board - the real stuff?"

"We do have some Andolian Grand Premier."

"Excellent. Include a case of that with everything else and we have a deal."

They exchanged transport coordinates for the supplies. Ja’hara gave them different coordinates for the champagne. Once Lore checked to make sure everything was there they beamed the warp field coil to the supply ship.

"It was a pleasure doing business with you, Captain." The captain confirmed they had the warp field coil aboard and thanked Ja’hara for her cooperation. "I hope all goes well for you, Captain," she said before signing off.

"You have the touch, my pet." Lore told her, beaming his approval.

He came over to turn the ship back to their previous course, but before he could the proximity alarm sounded for the second time. Lore ran a scan of the approaching ship and Ja’hara decided that if it was possible for the golden android to look ashen, he was doing it now.

"This is impossible! DAMN! It’s the Enterprise!" He seethed.

"What the hell are they doing here?" she asked, feeling just as much shock as he was.

"I'd bet they are here on a goody-goody make sure everyone is okay mission. I can't believe this, Data's so close I can almost smell his sickly sweet scent from here."

"Let's wait and see what happens. Maybe both ships will leave since the supply ship is okay now," Ja’hara speculated.

They did not have to wait long to find out. The comm panel lit up again. They were being hailed by the Enterprise. Lore moved out of viewer range as Ja’hara calmly responded to the hail.

"This is Captain Jean-Luc Picard of the Federation Starship Enterprise. With whom am I speaking?" he asked authoritatively.

"My name is Ka'sor of the transport ship, Horizon. What may I do for you, Captain Picard?" she responded.

She smiled at Picard as she studied the faces on the bridge. She could see Data sitting at a forward station and the one that Lore had said was empathic was there as well. Ja’hara knew that would not be a problem. She had fooled Betazoids before and this one was only half. She found her eyes were drawn to Data - all of Lore's good looks, but none of the spark. He had such a placid expression on his face as he stared at the view screen, her and kept track of the reading on his console.

"We are patrolling this sector, Ka'sor. If you are in distress, we are here to offer our assistance."

Ja’hara grinned at him, but kept her mental shields locked firm and her thoughts clear.  "I'm afraid I beat you to the punch, Captain Picard. That supply ship needed help, but I was in the right place at the right time and bartered fairly with the captain of their ship for an exchange. They have the warp field coil they need and I have a nice trade. But I thank you for your kind offer of assistance. A lady always loves to be rescued by handsome men." ~ Let me know if you run across any, ~ she thought, dryly.

"Well then since there is nothing we can do for you, I thank you for assisting the supply ship and wish you a safe journey."

"Thank you, Captain. It is always a pleasure to lend assistance to the Federation. Ka'sor out."

Ja’hara turned off the view screen and was rejoined by Lore. They reset their course and went to warp leaving the Enterprise behind.

"You are much sexier than your brother."

Lore tried to seem as though he thought this was a given, but in the past he had won so few competitions against his waywardly soft brother. Often Wrong preferred Data. Starfleet loved Data, that Yar chick had even fucked Data, but she had thought “Data” was acting strange and turned Lore down when he had tried to get her into bed long, long ago. Now here was Lore's blushing (sort of) bride saying Data just did not stack up against him and try as he might to deny it, Lore was overwhelmed to hear this.

"You were brilliant, my love. Their precious empath didn't have a clue. So you really think I'm sexier than Data?"

"Much, much sexier and I could tell from looking at him that you are much more fun to be with too. I feel so alive with you. Data would bore me to death."

"I knew there was a reason I married you."

“I take it you mean my superior taste in men?” She joked and poked him in the side.

“That too,” he teased back and pulled her into his seat with him as he took the pilot station. They were still two days from their destination and Lore wanted to get there more than ever now. Planet side, they were less likely to run into the Enterprise again. Lore reset his course and locked in the automatic helm control. This complete, he lifted his bride, whom he had not been inside in hours and decided to rectify that situation. Or was it erectify?

Lore walked quickly towards their quarters with Ja’hara in his arms.

"Stop," she called. "Back up." He took a few steps backwards until she told him to stop. "We need a bottle of that champagne."

"My hands are full but I'll try to get a bottle," and with that he threw Ja’hara over his shoulder, giving her a slap on her sexy butt for good measure. He reached down with his free hand to open the case and pulled out a bottle of the champagne. He studied it for a moment. "I haven't had Andolian Grand Premier since I celebrated my reassembly with my brother," he laughed and proceeded to their quarters. When he got there he put the bottle on the bedside table and threw Ja’hara onto the bed. He popped the cork to the champagne and drank from the bottle before handing it to Ja’hara. She took a long swig, smiled and nodded her approval.

"Good year," she commented.

Lore laughed. "Yes it is. So, why don't you show me just how much you prefer me over my brother."

She gave him an evil grin. "Are you saying you're going to invite him over so I can sample his wares and compare?"

Lore looked decidedly unhappy with that suggestion. "No, I did not. You are my wife, let Data get his own."

She took another swig from the champagne and handed the bottle back to Lore. He started to raise the bottle to his lips when Ja’hara grabbed him and pulled him down on to the bed. The champagne spilled onto her clothing.

"Oh no, I guess I'm going to have to take these off," she said in mock disappointment.

"I'll help you. We need to get these off you right away. I wouldn't want you to catch anything from wearing wet clothes," Lore laughed. He undressed her quickly before removing his own clothing and lying next to her on the bed. They shared the champagne and this time Ja’hara "accidentally" spilled some of the champagne on her breasts.

"Oh no, I spilled. Help clean me up?"

"I'm only too happy to. The only thing I want you to catch is me," Lore grinned.

He then turned his attention to her full breasts and the liquid that was running between them and pooling about her navel. He decided she was a lovely glass and he preferred to sip from her more than any other vessel he had ever known.

She giggled some as he traced his tongue down her body, but when he encouraged the champagne to drip down lower, she gasped as the cold ran past her clit. But Lore's hot mouth was there to warm her right back up. She was soon moaning her approval. The magic Lore was performing on Ja’hara soon had her thrashing on the bed. He knew exactly what to do to bring her the most pleasure. He loved watching her expressions when she was in the throws of passion. She moaned his name and then reached for his face removing it from between her legs. She kissed him with great enthusiasm and pulled him higher until he was on top of her. He entered her and began to bring even more pleasure to his lovely wife.

And she in turn brought him more pleasure. Lore wondered if all married couples were as perfectly suited and as happy as he was with Ja’hara. Would it always be like this? Would she always turn him on like this? Would sinking into her like this always cause him to sigh or moan with passionate delight? He hoped so. Lore was sick and tired of shitty things happening to him. It was like everyone was out to get him, but now he was not alone and together Lore and Ja’hara were going to take on the universe.

Ja’hara's body was quaking in delight as she experienced orgasm after orgasm from Lore's skill. It had become almost a contest for him to see how many times he could bring Ja’hara to climax before he came. It was certainly a contest they could both enjoy. When Lore finally exploded within her, Ja’hara was completely exhausted from the intensity of her multiple orgasms. As Lore lay beside her on the bed, she caressed his face gently and then cuddled next to him as close as she could get.  Lore grabbed her ass and used his grip here to plaster her body as firmly against his as he could get her. What would the future hold for Lore and his sexy bride? He could not wait to find out.

Deanna Troi was off duty now, but the seemingly ordinary events of her duty shift kept coming back to her. Giving up, she made an inquiry and then headed for the quarters of Lieutenant Commander Data. Once there she asked Data if the woman on the Horizon had seemed familiar to him.

“No, Counselor. I am quite certain I have never met Ka'sor before this day. Why do you ask?”

“I had trouble reading her, but I did notice that she looked long and hard at you, Data. Also the only thing I could pick out from her mind was your face.”

Data was puzzled by the Counselor's observation. "My face. That is odd. I know of no reason Ka'sor would have me in her thoughts, Counselor. Are you certain on this fact?"

Before Troi could answer, Data was informed of a subspace message that had been received addressed to him. The name of the sender was unfamiliar to Data and, as he did not know anyone on Risa, he was curious regarding the contents. He thanked the ensign and asked that the message be put through to his quarters. Troi started to leave but before she reached the door to his quarters he called her back. The urgency in his voice surprised her.

"What is it, Data?" she asked.

His eyes were glued to the view screen on his desk. "Lore! This message is from Lore."

He began to replay the message when she reached his desk. It consisted of some text and some holographic pictures that had obviously been taken on Risa. The text read:

"Hello, dear brother. Long time no see. I wanted to send you a few pictures from my wedding as it is the brotherly thing to do. Sorry we couldn't invite you but that's life."

"Counselor, you will note, this woman's face cannot be seen in these pictures, however her hair is the exact same style, length and color of-"

"Ka'sor," Deanna finished for him.

"Precisely. We must inform the captain of our suppositions at once." The golden android came to his feet as he tapped his comm badge. "Data to Captain Picard."

The Enterprise was making a course change and increasing speed in seconds.

Back on the transport the lovers were lying contently in each other's arms. They had no way of knowing Lore's message to Data had been sent early and the Enterprise was going to be looking for them.

On the Enterprise, Data and Troi were discussing the situation with Picard and Commander Riker.

"Now, Data," Picard asked, "you are certain this Ka'sor is the same woman in the images sent by Lore."

"Yes, sir. I have completed a more detailed analysis of the images and discovered something else." He brought up one of the images on the view screen and zoomed in on the woman's head. "Please take note of the earring this woman is wearing. The design is quite unusual and is identical to an earring Ka'sor was wearing. I believe this woman and Ka'sor to be one and the same, sir."

Riker looked closer at the earring design. "Look, it looks like this is an 'L' and a ‘J’. Now look at her shoulder in the wedding picture. You can just barely make out a mark there."

"You could be right, Commander," Data agreed. "Computer, enlarge and enhance area 127B." The computer complied with a chirp and the tattoo on the bride's shoulder became more obvious.

"It is. That is most definitely an 'L'. My God, that woman married Lore!" Deanna remarked, aghast.

"Well, we know she has no taste. No offense, Data," Riker said, with an apologetic smile.

"None taken, sir."

"Data, can you speculate on where they may be heading?" Picard inquired.

"Yes sir, based upon their last known coordinates as well as the items they had bartered for with the supply ship and my knowledge of my brother, I believe the Argelous system would be a likely destination.

"Risa, Argelous II. It would appear they are looking to hit all the fun spots," Riker commented.

"Picard to the bridge. Lay in a course for the Argelous system. Warp five."

The Horizon was just entering the Argelous system when sensors picked up a ship entering the system with them. Lore did not even have the chance to scan the ship before they were caught in a tractor beam. The ship rocked as it was jerked out of the orbit it was trying to achieve.

"Looks like the honeymoon’s over or the fun has just begun," Lore commented dryly.

"Captain Picard to Horizon, respond. Lore, we know you are aboard," the familiar voice said through the comm.

"Do you want to wager which one it’s going to be?" Ja’hara asked Lore, reaching out to take his hand.

The hail from the Enterprise repeated. Lore sat at the con while Ja’hara went to the comm station. She turned on the view screen.

"Lore, by order of Starfleet, we are taking you into custody," Picard announced and before Lore had any time to respond they were transported to the brig of the Enterprise.

Soon they were joined in the room by Picard, Data and Troi. Troi was especially curious to get a closer look at this woman who was Lore's wife.

"Brother, how nice to see you again," Lore said mockingly.

The three officers walked past Lore to look in the adjoining cell. Ja’hara was sitting on the bed, trembling, tears streaming from her eyes.

"Why am I here?" she asked between sobs.

Troi turned to Picard "She's terrified, Captain."

"We know Ka'sor is not your real name. What is it and how did you get mixed up with Lore?" Picard asked.

"My name is Ja'hara. We met when he saved me from an attack by a Klingon. Under my world's laws, I became his wife."

Troi turned to Picard, "I believe she's telling the truth, sir."

Counselor Troi had no idea how wrong she was.

"Please, Captain, have mercy on the girl, or at least have mercy on my ears.“

“He raped me over and over and over and over...” Ja’hara kept repeating this until Lore, feigning fury, screamed at her to shut up. This was all it took for Picard to decide to beam Ja’hara directly to sickbay.

"Thanks, Picard. She's quite the feisty one. She even scratched some of my skin away one of the times we were together. That was a time I’ll not soon-“

“Spare us the details of your atrocities, Lore. We are not impressed.”

Lore smirked. "You should be. It takes quite a bit to break through our skin, right brother?"

“Captain, I think I should go to sickbay to help Ja’hara. She's been through quite a trauma," Troi stated.

"Of course, Counselor. Please provide me with your report as well as one from Dr. Crusher," Picard replied. Troi left the brig to make her way to sick bay.

"Captain, may I remain for a few moments to speak to my brother."

"Of course, Mr. Data. Take as long as you need."

When Troi reached sickbay, Dr. Crusher had already started her examination.

"I've given her a mild sedative to calm her down," she informed Troi. "I can't believe the results of my exam so far. She has internal bruising from continuous and very deep penetration. I have found bruising on various areas of her body. I even healed a hairline fracture of her arm. I believe she’s been brutalized."

Ja'hara could hear them talking. Her plan was moving forward nicely. She lay back, relaxing. The sedative was taking effect. Ja’hara did not fight the drug. She closed her eyes and just let it do its job. Making love with Lore was exhausting, so she needed the rest. She would have plenty of time to put her plan into effect once she woke.

Data stood before his brother, with only the force field between them. “You will have to pay for your crimes, my brother. I cannot protect you, nor would I, as your crimes solely against the woman I find appalling.”

Lore grinned at Data. “You still haven’t learned the joys of sex, have you, brother? I guess you never took a second dip into the sexy waters of that Lieutenant Yar then, did you?” Data was so shocked his brother knew of a secret that Data had never revealed to anyone outside a certain courtroom. "So, brother, I take it you got my wedding pictures. Would you like to hear some more about the honeymoon?" he smirked.

"When we reach Starbase 183 you will be deactivated and sent to the Daystrom Institute where you will be disassembled. Good-bye Lore." With that, Data turned leaving the brig.

Ja’hara woke up several hours later feeling very refreshed and ready for the next step of the plan. She knew if she could free Lore from the brig they would be able to escape together. She glanced about to see if anyone was around. The only nurse on duty was in another area of sickbay.

~ Perfect, ~ she thought, ~ night watch has started. ~ She quietly got off the bed, grabbing a hypospray of a sedative as she went by a supply table, and made her way from sickbay. She made it to the turbolift unseen and headed for the brig. There was only one guard posted outside the entrance to the brig.

~ This is too easy, ~ she thought. She walked down the hallway towards the guard appearing to be disoriented.

"Excuse me ma'am but you shouldn't be here. May I call someone to assist you back to sickbay?"

She moved to the guard and pretended to faint. When the guard tried to stop her from falling, she used the hypospray to knock him unconscious. She removed the phaser from his belt and opened the door to the entrance of the brig. There was only one other guard on duty. The phaser was set for stun and she fired before the guard knew she was there. She pulled the first guard into the brig area, rushed to the control panel and lowered the force field to free Lore.

"You're so sexy when you're shooting people," Lore told her with an amused smirk.

"And you're cute captured. Now, shall we get the hell out of here?"

Lore nodded. Once he was free, he dragged the other security officer inside and in the cell with his sleeping friend. "Sweet dreams, fellows."

"I think it's time for Data to get a small taste of what he's been missing, my love." As he spoke, Lore ran through computer files, pulling up just what he wanted. "There are empty quarters two doors up from those assigned to my beloved brother. I’ll hide there." Lore straightened and took hold of his bride’s shoulders. "You, my peach, will go to Data and do your best to seduce him. Once he’s out of the way, I’ll take his place and we’re out of here."

"You have a great deal of faith in my abilities, don’t you? Will they actually fall for you impersonating Data?” Ja’hara asked incredulously. Lore smirked as he drew her close and kissed her.

"Yes, my beloved. It's an old trick, but a good one. You pretend to need someone to talk to about how cruel I was to you and Data, the sap, should take pity on you. If you get him into bed, my dear, I won't be jealous. Just make sure you know that rule does not hold true for any other circumstances.”

They left the brig making sure no one saw them and took the turbolift to deck two. Lore pointed out Data's quarters to Ja’hara before ducking into the empty one.

Ja’hara went to Data's door and rang the chimes. When the door opened, Data was surprised to see Ja’hara standing there. She looked upset.

"Please come in. Is there something I can help you with, Miss?"

"Thank you Commander. I didn't know who else to turn to. I really need to talk to someone and I thought that since you’re Lore’s brother you would understand. If you're busy..."

"No please, come in and sit down. May I offer you a refreshment?"

"No, thank you. It’s so amazing how different the two of you are. You are so much kinder and gentler than...him."

Data showed her to a couch and chair grouping, Data taking the chair, while she sat on the couch.  "I apologize for my bother’s mistreatment of you, Miss. He will be dealt with, I assure you," Data told her.

"What will happen to him?" she asked, trying to just look mildly interested.

"He will be taken to the Daystrom Institute to be dismantled."

"What!?" she exclaimed feigning anger. "That’s all! Shouldn't he be sent to a labor camp or something where he can suffer?"

Data looked confused. "He is an android. Such methods, were they in use in the Federation, would be ineffective in this case." Data's tone was matter of fact.

"Oh, right." She covered her face with her hands and began to sob softly. As she expected, Data moved to the couch and touched her shoulder, tentatively.

"Should I call Counselor Troi?" he asked, sympathetically.

"I don't want to wake her at this hour. Can we talk instead? You know him and what he's capable of better than the counselor. If you’re uncomfortable talking to me, I can leave."

"Please do not leave. I wish to help if I can. However I do not know if I would be the best to comfort you."

"I think you’re already doing a fine job, Commander," she smiled slightly.

"Please Miss, call me Data." It was the first time he had seen her expression change.

"Then you must call me Ja’hara," she said as she squeezed Data's hand gently.

"Thank you, I would be honored to...Ja’hara. May I ask how you came to be ‘rescued’ and then wed to my brother?"

"I was walking down the street, alone, when a very large and very angry Klingon grabbed me and told me he was taking me to his quarters. Lore decided he wanted me and killed the Klingon. He was seen to be saving me, but he wanted the same thing the Klingon did. My family unknowingly handed me over to him." She again started to sob.

"I am sorry, Ja’hara." Data said, softly.

She gave him a weak smile. "I have only met cruel men in my life. Men who couldn't be gentle, tender and loving. Are there any men who are not like that in the universe, Data?"

"There are, Ja’hara," Data replied, trying to sound comforting.

"Data, you won't tell anyone will you? I can trust you?"

"Ja’hara I will not divulge anything you tell me to anyone. On that I can assure you."

"You’re so different. You look so much the same but you are so different," she ran her hand gently along his cheek. "Data, where I come from the females are considered property. Do you know what it is like to be considered property?"

"I was almost declared the property of Starfleet. If it were not for Captain Picard, I would have been," he replied.

"You are so lucky to have people in your life who will help you when you need it. I've never had anyone." She moved closer to Data and rested her head on his shoulder. He put his arm around her to try to comfort her as he thought that was the appropriate thing to do.

Ja’hara allowed herself an inward smile. Slowly she brought her hand from her own knee to Data's. "I bet you are a gentle lover, aren't you, Data? You would be tender and caring, wouldn't you?"

Data tensed slightly. "I...have never...exactly...I have...I do not know," he stammered.

"Oh, I do. I can see it in you eyes. They don't have the cruelty that your brother's have." She lifted her head to look him in the eyes. She moved closer still, until she was almost, but not quite in his lap. But Data was not taking the hint and she was actually rather curious now about just what it would be like to have this twin brother in bed. "Data, will you hold me close to you. I feel so safe here with you. I've never felt safe with anyone before," she smiled and climbed on to Data's lap, laying her head on his shoulder. Data was unsure what to do but decided that, as she was in discomfort, it would be appropriate to hold her. "Thank you, Data. I need to feel the touch of a gentle man." She kissed him lightly on the cheek.

"You are welcome,” he said, hesitantly.

She realized that she had to either calm him down, or rev him up. “Are you and Lore exactly the same, physically that is, Data?” she asked, placing a hand on his chest and slowly moving it across the fabric that covered him.

“Yes, we are identical, except for programming,” he told her. “Is this comforting to you?” His voice sounded affected by what she was doing.

“Oh, yes. I know how strong you are, but you would never hurt me, would you, Data? That knowledge is very comforting and I find your gentleness very attractive."

Data's eyebrows shot up. "You do?" he asked, sounding stunned.

"Yes I do. I haven't known gentleness in my life. I've been used, abused, discarded like garbage - gentleness is what I need most. Why does that surprise you, Data?"

"It does not surprise me that you require gentleness. It does surprise me that you consider that quality in me attractive."

"I find you to be very attractive, Data. I wish you had saved me from that Klingon. I wish it had been you."

"But would that not have required you to become my wife?" Data asked, alarmed.

"Yes. Is that such an unappealing concept, Data?" she asked, moving her hand back to caress his face. "If the man and woman care for each other, marriage can have some very nice benefits for both of them. He has someone to take care of him and see to the home, she has a protector and is safe from other men. Then there is the bedroom."

"I assume you are referring to intimacy?"

"Yes. Have you ever been with someone who loved you?"

Data thought of Tasha. It may have been many things, but he knew it was not love. "No," he admitted.

"I was taught there are two forms of intimacy, Data. There is having sex and making love. Sex is for strangers but making love - making love is the most amazing experience a person could ever share with another. To feel the gentle touch of a lover," she caressed his face. "Their tender kiss on your lips," she kissed him gently on the lips. He did not quite respond but he did not pull away either. She kissed him again, this time a little longer and harder. When she kissed him the third time he responded as she hoped, kissing her back passionately. "Data, make love to me."

"Ja’hara, you have suffered a trauma. I-I cannot take advantage of you."

She kissed him again and he responded with even greater enthusiasm.

"You won't be taking advantage of me. I need to be with you. I need to be with a gentle, kind, and sexy man like you. Please, Data, make love to me!"

"Yes," Data stood up with Ja’hara in his arms and carried her to his bed.

Data deposited her on his bed with great care. Ja’hara could see that he was taking a shine to this idea. He did not take his eyes off her as she slowly began to remove her clothing. Data moved nervously to unseal his uniform so she jumped to her feet and stayed his hand.

"Let me do that," she cooed.

He looked so lost, yet eager. She removed his uniform shirt and, from behind, ran her hands over his chest. Data let slip a deep sigh. He took hold of the hands that caressed him, using this grip to pull her around and into his arms.

He kissed her with growing enthusiasm. Ja’hara noted she could feel the evidence that Data was built with the same size equipment as his brother between his legs too. As they kissed at the side of the bed, Ja’hara slid her arms around Data's waist gently caressing his back. She wanted to make sure Data's off switch was in the same position as Lore's. She could tell Data was starting to relax more and enjoy what was happening between them.

"Now, Data," she whispered, moving him closer to the bed using her body to guide his. She kissed him long and hard as she swept her fingers down his back and then... it was over. Data fell back onto the bed as Ja’hara smiled. "Data, you are the first man I've ever turned off," she laughed. She got dressed quickly so she could get Lore.

Once dressed, Ja’hara went to his closet and found more of Data's uniforms neatly stored there. She removed one, grabbed a storage bag that was on the floor of the closet and folded the uniform inside. She picked Data's communicator off his discarded shirt and, finally ready, she leaned down to give Data a kiss he would never know about before leaving him to join her husband.

When Ja’hara entered Lore's hiding place, he grabbed her and kissed her.

"So how does he compare to me?" he asked, only half joking.

"No one compares to you. He saw me naked but we only kissed so you have nothing to be jealous of," she teased.

Lore changed into Data's uniform and attached the communicator.

"We don't have much time. We have to be out of here before the shift change or they'll know I've escaped."

The couple collected themselves and calmly walked from the empty crew quarters. "Data" nodded at anyone whom they happened to pass and led Ja’hara to the lift that would take them to a corridor near Engineering and then to the bridge. Lore had not been idle while she had been seducing Data. He had been going over the blueprints for this ship. Lore tucked her in a corner and climbed into a Jeffries tube, making a few special adjustments.

Once this was done, they headed towards the bridge where "Data" dropped her off at transporter room two, just off the bridge. Once there, he relieved the lieutenant from command and ordered the Horizon be released from the tractor beam. He then ordered the transporter chief to beam Ja’hara to her ship and to allow her to go on her merry way. They exchanged a "formal" good-bye with "Data" wishing her well and assuring her Lore would never trouble her again.

"Mr. Sanderson, you have the bridge. I will be in Engineering, should I be needed."

"Data" left the bridge and returned to the empty quarters. Ja’hara locked on to Lore as soon as she returned to the transport but needed to wait until they were sure no one would see him being transported. Within a few moments, Lore was back on the ship and they were reunited. Lore laid in a new course before going to warp. He then turned to Ja’hara.

"You were fantastic!" He kissed her with a vigor she had not seen before.

"Where are we going now?" she asked, between kisses.

"Out of here and as far away from the Enterprise as we can get. So, you said you kissed my baby brother. Is he any good?" Lore asked, pulling her to the bedroom after beginning to undress her. Ja’hara had to bite her lower lip to keep focus as Lore was also mouthing her body as he removed her clothing.

"His technique is good but he doesn't have your passion," she managed to say between sighs of delight. "You are much, much better."

Back on the Enterprise, the shift change was in progress. Picard and Riker came to the bridge.

"Report, Lieutenant."

Before the lieutenant could answer, Dr. Crusher was contacting the bridge.

"Crusher to Picard. I was trying to locate Ja’hara to run some more tests and the computer tells me she is no longer on board."

Picard and Riker looked at each other in disbelief.

"Lieutenant, do you know anything about this?"

"Yes, sir. Commander Data ordered the tractor beam be discontinued so she could leave," the lieutenant answered.

"What? Picard to Data." There was no answer. Before Picard could act further, an urgent communication came through from another area of the ship.

“Lieutenant Stanford to the bridge. There has been a security breach in the brig. The prisoner has escaped. I repeat, the prisoner has escaped.”

“Mr. Worf, go to the brig and find out what the hell has happened,” Picard ordered. The Klingon security chief nodded to Picard before quickly leaving the bridge. "Computer, locate Lieutenant Commander Data."

"Lieutenant Commander Data is located on Deck two, Room 3659."

Picard and Riker rushed to Deck two where they met up with members of a security detail. Security was first to enter the empty room. Lieutenant Rill came back out holding the discarded uniform and communicator a moment later.

They then quickly made their way down the corridor to Data’s quarters where, not surprisingly, they found him shut down. His state of partial undress did raise a few eyebrows though. Picard ordered the security personnel to wait outside Data's quarters while Riker re-activated Data. Data sat up, looking confused as he saw Picard and Riker staring at him.

"Worf to Captain Picard."

"Go ahead, Lieutenant."

"The prisoner is no where on the ship, sir. Lieutenant Iago and Ensign Phelps were found in a detention cell. It appears Iago was drugged and Phelps has a phaser burn on his uniform. We have notified sickbay."

Picard turned to Data. "Data, what happened?"

"I am not sure, sir. Ja’hara came to my quarters last evening. She said she needed someone to talk to about Lore. She...seduced me." Data was as shocked as he was embarrassed by this admission. "The last thing I remember was her kissing me and guiding me to the bed."

"Well Data, it would appear we were all fooled by the helpless act of Ja’hara. Her behavior from the first moment she was in the brig was part of a ruse to free Lore so they could escape." Picard filled Data in on Lore once again impersonating him to free the transport from the tractor beam. "Picard to the bridge. Scan the area using the long-range sensors and find that transport!"

"Sir, the sensors have been tampered with. Commander La Forge estimates it will take another forty-five minutes to repair."

Data accepted his uniform top from Riker, who had brought it from the other room. "I will go to Engineering and assist Geordi, with your permission, Captain."

"Granted, Commander," the captain said with a nod.

Despite the gravity of the situation, Riker could not help grinning at Data as he exited the room in a hurry to put this moment in his life behind him.

"I would have paid a hundred slips of latinum to have seen what happened here," Riker commented as he followed the captain from the room.

"If you ever tell anyone I said this I will deny it, but so would I," Picard whispered to his first officer.

Data told Geordi what had happened while the two sat in the Jeffries tube repairing the damage caused by Lore. Geordi was not sure what stunned him more - the idea of a woman wanting to be with Lore or the fact this woman was able to seduce his emotionless friend.

When the repairs were finished, the three senior officers met in the ready room to discuss the situation. There was no sign of the transport on any of the sensors. Data, still feeling unsettled by his experience, apologized to Picard and Riker for being compromised.

"Data, you do not need to apologize. We were all deceived. I am going to contact Starfleet Command to update them on the situation. Lore was dangerous before but this new partnership of his makes him even more so. Dismissed."

As the two officers returned to the bridge, Riker turned to Data and said, "My friend, don't be too hard on yourself. I'm sure if it had been any other man she would have accomplished her task except it wouldn't have taken as long."

Data looked confused by this. "It took her thirty-six minutes, eight seconds from the time she entered my quarters to get me to agree to intimacy, Commander. How long would it have taken if she had intended to seduce you?" Riker was surprised it had been that short, and his face displayed this fact.

"Data, you are more human than you’ve been letting on." He patted his friend on the back and walked away after whispering "Not that long," into Data's ear. Data took his place at Ops, still thinking that over.

Chapter Four

Lore and Ja’hara were enjoying their newfound freedom.

“We're safe and together, sweetness. My dear brother will take years to analyze what you did to him and will regret even longer that you didn't finish what you started. I'm very proud of you. You're brilliant, Ja’hara and that's one of the many, many things I love about you." Lore kissed her again with tremendous passion.

Even though their time apart had only been a matter of hours, it felt significant to have her back in his arms again. Lore was coming to realize that while he was completely delighted with how well she could keep up with him in bed, and their time spent there was spellbindingly wonderful, Lore loved more about her than just this. He was even flattered she had again chosen him over Data. They lay in each other’s arms, their passion, for the moment, spent, and just enjoyed being together.

He caressed Ja’hara’s face with his hand. "You have no idea how incredibly beautiful you are, do you?"

"You still haven't told me where we're going."

"Terlina III. My father lived there until he died. We can lay low there for a little while. Starfleet would never think of looking for us there."

"Is it nice?" she asked.

"His home is in the middle of a jungle. He had a good lab which could come in handy." He kissed Ja’hara again.

Lore was becoming aroused again. She had a way of doing that to him without even trying. Lore realized for the first time he was the one with something...someone Data could not have. The thought that Data had wanted his wife turned Lore on. Lore wondered if he would be able to tie her to another tree in his father's jungle and tickle her with the leaves as he had done before. It was very erotic last time, would it be again?

It took two days before they arrived at Terlina III. They found a small clearing big enough for the transport to land and made their way to the now-deserted home of the late Often Wrong Soong.

"It isn't exactly Risa," Lore laughed, "but we'll be alone."

"Are you sure you'll be okay? Not exactly the most pleasant memories for you here," Ja’hara observed.

"I'll be fine." They came to the entrance of the home and the doors slid open.

"Unusual decor. I don't think I've ever seen anything quite like this before," she laughed.

"And I doubt you will again," Lore assured her as they made their way inside. "No one else like dear old dearly dead old dad."

Ja’hara raised an eyebrow at him. "That was a mouthful. You and he really didn't get along even before he took you apart, did you?"

"No, not really...well, in some ways, but even then we...not really, no."

She took hold of Lore's hand and walked with him through the room. "Definitely needs cleaning."

“And christening,” Lore added, picking her up in his arms and heading towards the bedroom.

"You're insatiable, Lore!"

"Only for you, my dear, only for you."

"So do you think your father would have liked me if we had met?"

"I'm sure he would have thought you’re the perfect woman for me."

"Is that supposed to be a compliment or are you teasing me?"

"Both."

Lore set her down just inside the door and moved to the bed, stripping off the top sheet along with the layer of dust before returning to collect his wife. He laid Ja’hara on the bed and moved down next to her. He surveyed the room causing a strange look to come over his face.

"What's wrong, Lore?" she asked concerned.

"I was just thinking about something my father said to me the last time I was here. When he was saying the emotion chip wasn't for me, it was for Data. Everything was for Data. You’re the only one I’ve ever known who’s chosen me over Data. You have no idea what that means to me." He kissed Ja’hara.

Ja’hara let him kiss her once, grabbed his face and looked deeply and seriously into his amber eyes. "I had never felt important to anyone, until you. I wasn’t valued by anyone, for anything other than sex, until you. I have never met anyone so like-minded as you. You saved me in more ways than one, Lore," she told him.

"Then we are even, my love, because you also have saved me. Now, enough talking," he directed.

Once again she allowed him to kiss her once.

"Lore, are we going to be running forever? Do you think they will ever give up trying to find you...us?"

"I honestly don't know. Are you tired of this life already?"

She shook her head and kissed him. "I will do anything to keep you in one piece and us together. It's just...when I was growing up I could see what real families were like and I sometimes would wish I had a family like that but I knew that wish would never happen."

"Is that the life you still wish for?" Lore did not like the idea of keeping Ja’hara from a dream.

"No, not anymore. Too much has happened," she laughed. "Anyway it would definitely bore me to death."

Something occurred to Lore that he had never mentioned to her, never having seen the need before this moment. "Ja’hara, you are aware I can't give you a child, aren't you? I don't have any genetic material in my sexual secretions to combine with your genetic ovum."

Ja’hara turned to Lore looking a little relieved. "Lore, I can't have children either. I had a procedure done a few years ago, when I thought my fate was sealed, to make sure. I could never bring a child into the world to suffer like I did. Besides, I don't want to share you with anyone."

Ja’hara kissed Lore but this time the kiss was much more passionate and did not stop at one.

“Let’s get you undressed,” he smirked. Ja’hara sat up and raised her arms so he could pull off the sweater she was wearing. She lay back down, raising her butt slightly so Lore could slide her skirt down her sexy legs. Very quickly, Lore’s clothing was next to Ja’hara’s on the floor. Their bodies were entangled, their hands caressing each other as their lips came together for a sizzling kiss, their tongues joined in a sensuous duel.

Lore moved his kisses to Ja’hara’s sexy neck. He was certain there was not a centimeter of her body that was not sexy. He slowly ran his tongue down to Ja’hara’s cleavage before making his way to the underside of her right breast. He looked up at his wonderful wife, sharing a very contented smile with her before taking her breast in his mouth. His tongue gliding around the side of her nipple as his hand kneaded her other breast had Ja’hara gasping in delight. After a few minutes, Lore switched his attention to her other breast. Ja’hara’s moans were having an even greater impact on Lore than usual. He could not wait any longer. He had to be inside her now. Lore, kneeling between her legs, raised them so her knees were snug to her breasts before plunging into her with his stiffness.  He did not think he could go any deeper into her than he was now. Ja’hara’s moans were more intense than he had heard before, pushing him closer and closer to the abyss. With his hands placed on either side of Ja’hara’s chest, he gripped the bedding tightly as he quickened the rhythm of his thrusts. She raised her head towards Lore, wanting his mouth more than she had ever wanted it before. Their kiss felt hotter than molten lava as their passion coursed through their bodies. The kiss was broken when Ja’hara threw back her head, arched her back and screamed out Lore’s name as the extreme pleasure of her orgasm flowed through her. Lore became even more excited by her reaction, plunging into her harder and harder until she called out over and over again. Soon his body was shaking as he experienced the overwhelming power of his climax.

Lore moved next to Ja’hara, pulling her into his arms. He kissed her forehead as he gently swept his hand up and down her arm.

“I love you, Ja’hara. I don’t think I can find the words to adequately tell you how much,” he whispered.

Ja’hara looked deeply into Lore’s eyes. She was only able to smile in response to Lore’s words as she was still trying to catch her breath and could not speak. She pulled herself tighter to Lore, resting her head on his chest. Soon her heavy breathing from their lovemaking became that of deep sleep. Lore found himself staring at his sleeping wife for hours. He thought he had pissed off every god possible but decided there must be one out there who actually liked him. How else could he explain his incredible good fortune of meeting Ja’hara? He kissed her again on the forehead.

“I love you more than life, Lore,” she whispered, still asleep.  

Lore and Ja’hara had been on Terlina III for three months when they decided it was time to move on. In terms of making love and making plans, it had been a productive stay. Lore had made extensive use of Soong’s lab for many projects including fashioning a communicator for Ja’hara in case they became separated. The communicator was a heart-shaped pendant Ja’hara would wear on a chain around her neck. It had the same entwined L and J pattern as the earring etched on it. Lore had added a communicator to his own circuitry, which he could access under a fingernail in a manner similar to his personal transporter.

The first thing they had decided was they needed a new ship. The Enterprise knew too much about their current transportation, including its transponder code and warp signature.

The couple packed up their belongings, including a few items they “inherited” from Dr. Soong’s lab and soon Terlina III was just a memory.

It took three days before the transport entered orbit around Ferenginar. Lore had arranged to meet with an old acquaintance named Sovak. Lore knew Sovak had no love for either the Federation or Jean-Luc Picard after a run-in the Ferengi had with the Enterprise’s captain on Risa. Lore had his eye on a nice runabout Sovak had salvaged and restored. It was perfect for his and Ja’hara’s needs. Sovak was hesitant about trading the runabout for the old transport until he came aboard. He was impressed with the modifications made to the ship by Lore but Ja’hara’s plea, which included a very sensual caressing of Sovak’s lobes, sealed the deal. The runabout carrying the happy pair was soon on its way to their next destination - Vina’s World.

Vina’s World was well known for the silver sand beaches that reflected the light from the planet’s sun and moon to produce a beautiful sparkling effect. The moderate temperatures and warm purple oceans made Vina’s World a popular vacation destination. Many compared it to Risa, not only because of the beauty and weather but also the similar views on sexuality and sensuality held by the Vinates.

When Lore and Ja’hara arrived, Lore was again thrilled by Ja’hara’s response to her surroundings. He hoped he would always feel this incredible sensation whenever his wife experienced something new.

“Lore, this place is amazing,” she beamed as she threw her arms around his neck. “Are those tall, blue people with the webbed hands the Vinates?”

“Yes, my love,” Lore responded before kissing her softly on the lips.

“Why do some have white hair and some black hair?” she asked.

“They have white hair until they reach what they call the ‘age of wisdom’ and then it turns black,” he explained. He nuzzled up to her ear to whisper, “That means their too damn old to have sex any more.” He kissed her neck and laughed. He then surprised Ja’hara by picking her up and carrying her to the entrance of their temporary home. As the door slid open Ja’hara surveyed their guest quarters with wide eyes, as the rooms were more luxuriousness than any she had ever seen. From the outside it looked like a simple overwater hut but on the inside - the open-air living area, the deck, the bedroom - they were spectacular.

“Lore, you’re spoiling me. Did you always stay at places like this before you met me?” she asked, still in Lore’s arms.

“You deserve only the best, Ja’hara,” Lore smiled lovingly.

“And that’s why I married you.” Ja’hara leaned in slightly, kissing Lore with great passion. “What should we do first?” Lore did not have to answer as the smirk on his face said it all. He carried Ja’hara to the bed where they made love for most of the afternoon.

Their stay on Vina’s World was going well. Lore and Ja’hara were enjoying the sights and sounds of the planet while still finding the time to conduct a little business as well. One business acquaintance they had not expected to see was Durga, the Lizarian Lore had been dealing with when he first met Ja’hara on Amagros IV. Durga was not pleased to see them either.

“You, android, you cheated me,” Durga charged.

“Now Durga, we had a business deal and with all deals sometimes you win and sometimes you lose,” Lore stated calmly.

“That one - she gave you information she shouldn’t have,” Durga accused as he stared at Ja’hara with hatred in his eyes. He paused for a moment before turning back to Lore. “So android, did you win or lose in your business dealings with Ja’hara’s mother? How much did the whore charge you when you bought her daughter?” he laughed. Lore moved quickly, grabbing Durga by the throat.

“You’re treading in very dangerous territory, Durga,” he warned.

“Don’t tell me she cheated the great Lore. I’m surprised. Word had it that Ja’hara was going to be an even better whore than her mother but maybe they were wrong about that. Is she not bringing in the latinum like you thought she would?” Durga choked out the words as Lore increased the pressure on his neck. The Lizarian was enjoying Ja’hara’s reaction too much. He watched with glee as the tears were streaming down her face.

“If you continue to speak about my wife like that, I will kill you,” Lore cautioned.

“Your wife!” Durga laughed. He knew Lore was not to be taken lightly but he did not think Lore would kill him over a whore. “You don’t marry them, Lore. You pay’em, fuck’em and then-” Durga’s words were cut off by the sound of his neck snapping. Lore then threw the lifeless body of the Lizarian to the ground. He took Ja’hara in his arms, holding her tightly, as he comforted her. 

“He’ll never say a bad word about you again, Ja’hara. I won’t allow anyone to speak to or about you like that or they will meet the same fate as Durga,” Lore whispered in her ear. “Now let’s get out of here.” Lore took Ja’hara’s hand leading her back to their guest quarters.

Ja’hara had been working hard to forget about her life on Amagros IV so Durga’s words cut her deeply. It took Lore forty-three minutes to get Ja’hara to smile again. It then took only fifteen seconds to coax her to the bedroom.

“I want to make love to you,” Lore smiled as he undressed Ja’hara. “I want to kiss you, touch you, be one with you.” He pulled her into his arms, kissing her as he gently caressed her bare back. He lifted Ja’hara on to the bed before removing his own clothing and joining her. With each kiss the fire within them became hotter and hotter.

“Make love to me,” Ja’hara whispered. She reclaimed Lore’s mouth, kissing him hard, as her hands swept over his chest. Their lovemaking was different this time. She thought of Lore’s repeated promises that he would never allow anyone to hurt her. She had never doubted his words but today - today he had proven it. He had killed someone, even if it was just a Lizarian, for hurting her. As she lay in Lore’s arms, Ja’hara felt more loved than she ever had.

They held each other tightly for quite some time before Lore broke the silence.

“I’m supposed to meet a Yiridian in fifteen minutes. I don’t have to go-”

“Take care of business, Lore,” she interrupted.

“Are you sure?” he asked. There was more than a hint of concern in his voice.

“You’ve told me a lot about this deal. It’s important. Go!” she ordered.

“If you need me, use that,” he said as he pointed to the communicator hanging around her neck.

Ja’hara smiled at her husband, “I will always need you, Lore. Now get dressed and go take that Yiridian’s latinum.”

Five minutes later Lore was kissing Ja’hara good-bye as he left for his meeting. He was not anxious to deal with the Yiridian but Ja’hara was right, it was important. ~Then why do I have such a bad feeling about this? ~ he asked himself.

Lore had been gone for five minutes when Ja’hara decided to get dressed and enjoy the view from the deck until he returned. She was surprised when only twenty minutes later she heard the door to their quarters slide open.

“Back already? That was quick,” she called out. Ja’hara’s happiness evaporated in an instant as she found herself staring at a complement of Starfleet security personnel. 

“By order of Starfleet, you are under arrest,” informed the Klingon in charge.

Ja’hara was stunned but she knew she had to warn Lore. She would rather die than let them disassemble her husband. She brought her hand up to her pendant, fingering it in a way she hoped they would think to be nervousness before she activated it.

“Lore, Starfleet’s here. Go!” she spoke quickly.

“Transport!” was the response that came back over the communicator. Ja’hara started to reach for her earring.

“Don’t touch that earring,” the Klingon ordered but Ja’hara did not obey.

Lore was frantic. The communicator channel was still open so he had heard the voice he recognized as being Lieutenant Worf’s yelling at Ja’hara, followed by the sound of phaser fire and a thud. He knew his wife had been hit. He then heard Worf contacting the Enterprise informing them to beam up two of his team with their prisoner.

“Lore, this is Lieutenant Worf. Turn yourself in now and you will be treated fairly.”

Lore closed the communicator channel without responding. He was seething with anger over Ja’hara’s capture.

~ They’ll pay for this! ~ He raged. ~ They will all pay! ~

Chapter Five

When Ja’hara awoke she immediately recognized her surroundings. She was in the brig of the Enterprise. As she sat up on the bed, Ja’hara noticed her earring and pendant were gone. She desperately hoped Lore had escaped.

“Your punishment will not be as severe if you tell us where Lore is,” Worf informed her. Ja’hara let out an audible sigh, as she now knew he had not been captured.

“Qu'vatlh guy'cha b'aka!” Ja’hara sneered. Worf glared at Ja’hara, angered by her curse but surprised she could swear so well in Klingon.

“We have been contacted by the Ama’shega,” Worf informed her. “They wish for you to be returned to Amagros IV to face charges there. We will transfer you to their custody when we rendezvous with the prison shuttle. However, should you wish to provide assistance in capturing Lore, arrangements would be made to take you to Star Base 127 where you would be held until you are moved to a rehabilitation colony. You have approximately thirty-five hours to decide.” He then turned to speak to the security personnel for a few minutes before leaving the brig.

As Worf was leaving the brig, Deanna Troi was on her way to Deck thirty-six looking for Data. Now that Ja’hara was aboard, the counselor was concerned the confusion and guilt Data had felt after the earlier incident would return. Data looked surprised to see her as Deanna entered Main Engineering.

“Counselor, is there something I can help you with?” Data asked as she approached him.

“Actually Data, I was going to ask you the same question,” she smiled. “Can we speak privately?”

“Of course.”

“Why don’t we go to my office,” she suggested. As they walked to the turbolift, Deanna continued. “Data, I think you know why I want to talk with you.”

“I assume it has something to do with Ja’hara, Counselor. Is that correct?” Data responded.

“Yes. I’m a little concerned that her presence-” Deanna’s words ended abruptly as an expression of pain came over her face.

“Counselor, what is wrong?” Data was alarmed by the sudden change in Deanna’s demeanor.

“I-I’m not sure, Data. I was suddenly overwhelmed by feelings of terror and helplessness. I believe the emotions are coming from Ja’hara,” Deanna answered uncertain.

“Counselor, she has fooled you before regarding her emotions as she fooled us all,” Data reminded her.

“I know, Data, but these are much, much stronger than any I’ve felt from her before. I’m going to go check on her just in case they are real.”

“I will accompany you, Counselor,” Data insisted.

They exited the turbolift on Deck thirty-eight, making their way to the ship’s brig. As they entered, they looked to the detention cell Ja’hara had been assigned but it appeared to be empty.

“Lieutenant, this is the cell Ja’hara is being held in?” Deanna asked as they moved closer to the cell. Before Lieutenant Iago had a chance to respond, they heard a voice coming from the cell.

“What do you want?” Ja’hara asked angrily.

Data and Deanna were surprised to see Ja’hara sitting on the floor in a corner, curled up in a ball. She was staring blankly at the wall but the tears that were streaming down her cheeks were very obvious.

“I could feel intense pain emanating from you. I needed to find out if it was real-” Deanna began.

“Well now you know, so just leave me alone!” Ja’hara interrupted.

“I’d like to help you if I can,” Deanna offered. Ja’hara laughed harshly, as she stood and slowly walked towards the force field.

“You want to help? Fine. Kill me now! I’d rather be dead than go back!” she answered defiantly.

“Go back where?” Deanna asked.

“Your Klingon has informed me that I’m going to be handed over to the Ama’shega so they can take me back to Amagros IV.” Ja’hara’s voice was quaking as she spoke. She moved to the bed where she sat with her back against the wall. “Unless, of course, I help you capture Lore. Now leave.”

“If you decide you would like to talk later have Lieutenant Iago contact me,” Deanna told her, causing Ja’hara to laugh again.

 “Why would I want to talk to you? You know nothing about me yet you’ve already judged me. I can hear the contempt in your voice,” Ja’hara sneered.

“Then tell me about yourself,” Deanna challenged.

“Okay. Here’s the abridged version. My mother was forced to be a whore - oh excuse me, a ‘pleasure woman’ - as was her mother and her grandmother. I come from a long line of whores. My father, well, your guess would be as good as mine when it comes to who he was. My stepfather used me for his business. He was in the information trade and I provided him with the information he sold. What a joyous family reunion we’ll have when I join them at the prison colony. I’m sure they won’t hold me there for long though, since I’m much more valuable to the government as a ‘pleasure woman’ than as a prisoner.” The sarcasm was dripping from Ja’hara’s words. 

“You obviously don’t want my help. If you change your mind, and decide to tell the truth, you know how to reach me.” Deanna walked towards the door of the brig when she realized Data had not followed her. He had been silent the whole time she had been speaking with Ja’hara. She looked back to see the android staring into the cell at Ja’hara.

“It would appear the Federation isn’t aware of how things really work in the Amagros System. I did everything possible to avoid that fate. I’m not going back now. So Data, will you help me? Will you kill me?”

 “Data,” Deanna called out, startling Data.

“Yes, Counselor,” Data responded. He took one more look at Ja’hara as she now lay on the bed with her back towards the force field before joining Troi. As he walked he began to access all he could on the customs of Amagros.

“Data, what is it?” Deanna asked as they rode the turbolift to her office.

“I believe Ja’hara was telling you the truth, Counselor.”

“Data, I don’t think she is capable of telling the truth. Besides, she doesn’t have to follow in the footsteps of her mother,” Deanna countered.

“I am unsure as to that fact, Counselor. I am aware their government supplies ‘pleasure women’ at the tourist resorts they operate however I have limited information as to the women themselves other than they all seem to come from one area of the planet,” Data explained.

“Still, Data, we don’t know if she’s saying she would be forced into that life just to gain sympathy.”

“True, Counselor, however I believe it would be prudent to know more before transferring her to the authorities of her planet.” The turbolift door opened on Deck eight. “Counselor, if you will excuse me, I must speak with Captain Picard.” The counselor exited the turbolift as Data continued to the bridge.

He stood outside the captain’s ready room for fifteen seconds before pressing the door chimes to request admittance.

“Come,” Picard called out. Data entered, moving towards the captain’s desk. “Ah, Mr. Data, please sit. What can I do for you?”

“I have a request, sir. As you know, I am still attempting to better understand what happened to me during my encounter with Ja’hara. I have many questions regarding the incident only she can answer. I am not comfortable with the idea of discussing the matter with her in the brig, because of the personal nature of my inquiries. I wish to speak with her privately, preferably in my quarters.”   

“If it were anyone else asking I would turn them down immediately but I know how important it is to you to get those answers. I will grant your request, Mr. Data, however I want to have security posted outside your quarters in case she tries to escape.”

“Thank you, sir.”

When his shift concluded, Data made his way to the brig. He had already made arrangements with Worf to have security posted outside his quarters as the captain had ordered. He had also finished processing new information he had found regarding the ‘pleasure women’ and, thanks to information supplied by the Amagros authorities, had discovered Ja’hara was from the small district on the planet where the women came from. As he stood outside Ja’hara’s cell, he could not help but study her expression as she lay staring at the ceiling. She was still obviously frightened but an almost eerie calmness seemed to have come over her. He had seen this in others in the past but it had always been people who knew of their imminent demise and had accepted it.

“Have we rendezvoused with the prison shuttle already?” Ja’hara asked quietly.

“No, that will not occur for another twenty-eight hours, twelve minutes,” Data answered.

“Then why are you here, Data?” Ja’hara was now sitting on the edge of the bed. She was more than a little curious about why he had come.

“I wish to speak to you privately regarding our encounter. Will you accompany me to my quarters?”

Ja’hara nodded her head. ~ Anything to get out of this cell. ~

Data turned to the ensign, signaling him to lower the force field. “Please come with me.”

Ja’hara stepped out of the detention cell to join Data. They walked in silence to the turbolift and did not speak until they reached Data’s quarters.

“I see you’re taking no chances with me,” Ja’hara commented as she passed the ensign posted at Data’s door.

“The captain would not approve my request to meet with you privately unless security was posted.”

Ja’hara surveyed Data’s quarters, noticing they had not changed from when she had last been there. She sat down on the couch and watched as Data sat at the opposite end, rather than in the chair as he had the last time.

“Okay, Data, what did you want to talk about?” Ja’hara turned to face the android, sitting cross-legged, close enough to him that her legs touched his.

“Please tell me more about your life on Amagros IV.” Data shifted his body slightly so he too faced Ja’hara. She noticed that he maneuvered himself in such a way to ensure their legs stayed in contact.

Ja’hara nodded, took a deep breath and began to tell Data about her life.

“When I was young, my mother and I shared quarters with her three sisters and their children. I was the only child my mother was allowed to have. ‘Pleasure women’ are only allowed to have female offspring so the government will have a continuous supply of whores. Since we are the dregs of society, it is considered an insult to allow a male offspring to be born in to such a lowly class. Those pregnancies are terminated.” Ja’hara paused before continuing. “There were ten of us living in quarters that had two bedrooms. My mother and her sisters were forced to work long hours so it was the older children who cared for the younger ones. We were not allowed to attend the same schools as others. The ones for us focused more on sex than academics. How you did at ‘school’ would determine your placement later. The one who finished at the top of the class would be used to service dignitaries while those at the bottom were put out on street corners. Once a girl reached the age of sexual maturity she would have to go to ‘work’ just like her mother. I was the youngest by six years so the others were gone by the time I was eighteen. Three years later my mother met my stepfather, the most despicable male I’ve ever met. He said I could live in their quarters if I let him further ‘train’ me.” Ja’hara’s features had hardened considerably as she spoke of her stepfather.

“Train you?“ Data asked confused.

“He wanted to have sex with me. He was going to throw me out on the street because I refused his advances, then he discovered how easily I could manipulate men. He put me to work gathering the information he needed for his business.” Ja’hara studied Data’s face, trying to gauge his reaction. “I lived with them until our quarters were raided by the Ama’shega. They were captured and sent to a prison colony on Amagros V.”  

“How and when did you meet Lore?”

The hatred she felt for her stepfather gave way to her feelings for her husband. The hardness was now gone from her face. “I met Lore at a bar in the Detari Settlement ten days after my mother and stepfather were taken away. He was there to conduct some business. Can I ask you a question, Data?” Data nodded so Ja’hara continued. “Why do you want to know this?”

“I am curious about your relationship with my brother. You know a side of him which I did not know existed,” Data responded. “What attracted you to him?”

“I don’t know exactly but I was drawn to him instantly,” Ja’hara smiled slightly at the memory. “Lore was the first male who wanted me for more than sex, the first to care about me, the first to make me feel important, not disposable. He took me away from a life I detested and a fate that terrifies me. He promised he would never let anyone hurt me or put me in that role and he meant it, Data. The first time Lore told me he loved me was the first time anyone, including my mother, had ever said those words to me.” Ja’hara quickly wiped tears from her eyes before continuing. “When he holds me, I feel safe.” She looked down for a moment as she spoke, “You haven’t asked me about that night. Why?”

“It is not necessary. Knowing more about you, and your past, has helped me to understand your actions and motivations,” Data explained.

“Do you think about that night at all?”

“I have spent many hours thoroughly analyzing the time you were here,” Data informed her.

“And what did you conclude from your analysis?”

“I have yet to complete it, so I do not have a conclusion. I have been unable to determine what I could have done differently to change the outcome.”

~ He could have stopped me anytime he wanted. ~ She smiled to herself. ~ Lore was right. He still wants me. ~ 

Jumping at this opportunity, Ja’hara repositioned herself so she was now kneeling next to Data.

“Now that you know what I face, will you help me, Data?” she asked.

“I will not kill you if that is-” he started.

“No, Data, I don’t want to die but I can’t go back to Amagros IV. Is there anything you could do to convince them to send me to a rehabilitation colony instead?” She gently caressed his cheek as she looked deeply in to his amber eyes. With a soft touch to his chin, she turned his head slightly, leaned forward and kissed him. “Please help me,” she pleaded. Data tried to stop himself from responding to her kiss. After all, she had shut him down the last time but this time, it was different. There was no Lore to rescue, no ship to escape in, no reason for her to stop. Ja’hara kissed Data once again, a little longer this time. Data was unable to resist. His sexual program was screaming at him to continue. He wanted her, despite everything that had happened, he still wanted her. He pulled Ja’hara into his arms and onto his lap as he continued the kiss. Her arms slid around his neck, her hands on the back of his head pulling him in even deeper. Breaking the kiss, Ja’hara climbed out of his lap. She held her hands out to Data who accepted them immediately. She slowly led him to his bedroom, stopping once to reclaim his mouth when he appeared reluctant to enter the room.

“I want to make love to you, Data,” she whispered as she coaxed him towards the bed. Ja’hara slowly and seductively began to remove her clothing as Data watched, spellbound.  As she stood before him nude, the need to touch her became overpowering. He quickly removed his uniform. There was no hesitation or nervousness in his movements this time.

“You are the most aesthetically pleasing female I have ever encountered,” he told her as he pulled her to him.

“Data, I need to know something before we make love. Will you be able to feel the pleasure I wish to bring you?”

“Yes, I know when a touch is pleasurable although I cannot feel it as you do. My system analyzes sensory inputs and translates them so I react appropriately to your actions.”

“So you can experience the rush of an orgasm?” she asked as she gently caressed his chest.

“Theoretically, yes.”

“You’ve never had an orgasm, Data?” she asked as she brought her mouth to his nipple. She licked and teased it trying to discover how Data’s system would react.

“I-I have not,” he gasped.

“Then you must tonight, Data,” Ja’hara smiled. “I want to please you in ways you’ve never experienced before.”

She lay down on his bed, her arms outstretched beckoning him to join her, which he immediately did. The softness of Ja’hara’s lips pressing against his as she kissed him passionately was enough to make Data moan. Her tongue began an exploration of Data’s mouth until she engaged him in a sensuous duel. Ja’hara maneuvered Data on to his back, moving her kisses slowly down his neck to his chest. She caressed his torso as she again nipped and teased his nipples. The sensory inputs she was creating caused him to moan again. She slowly moved lower, running her tongue over his stomach. She continued her descent until she reached his impressive erection. She knelt between his legs, giving Data a sexy smile before kissing the tip of his penis. She then swept her tongue along the head as well as its underside. His moans were becoming more intense as she continued. Ja’hara took his length firmly in her mouth, raising and lowering her head expertly as she fondled his balls with her hand. When she introduced a few of Lore’s favorite techniques she hoped Data would respond the same way and she was not disappointed. Data was moving closer to climax so she changed positions to straddle him, lowering herself on his stiff rod. He reached for Ja’hara’s breasts as she slid up and down his shaft. He fondled them in his hands, teasing her nipples with his fingers before leaning forward to take one in his mouth. Her moans were like music to Data’s ears, adding to the already intoxicating inputs she was creating. It was only a few seconds after Ja’hara had called out in pleasure that Data experienced his first orgasm. Ja’hara moved next to Data, kissing him hard as she pulled him on top of her. He was inside her in an instant. He was certain the intensity of the sensations produced as her dripping vagina enveloped his penis would cause an overload of his neural net. He thrust in and out of her at a pace he had calculated was the maximum level he could safely use. Her pleas for him to go harder, deeper surprised him but he complied. The feel of her hands stroking his back, her thighs firmly pressing against his hips as her toes swept along the back of his legs increased the level of his responses even further. He increased the pace and depth of his thrusts even more. Ja’hara was soon arching her back and calling out his name as she was swept over the edge. Data continued pounding into her until she was again moaning his name before he finally exploded within her.

As Data and Ja’hara lay facing each other, he absently began to caress her silky skin. He started with her arm before moving his hand slowly across her shoulder until his gentle touch swept the top of her breasts.  “I will speak to the captain on your behalf. With the information you have provided me regarding the conditions on Amagros IV, I predict a 4.26% chance he will approve transferring custody of you to the Ama’shega.”

“Thank you, Data. You’ve been much kinder to me than I deserve.” She kissed Data with great passion as his hand slid lower to cup her breast. He did not understand why he needed to make love to this woman again and again. He would have to analyze it later. He was much too busy now giving in to the need. 

It was ten minutes before his duty shift was to begin when Data finally escorted Ja’hara back to the brig.

“I will speak to the captain immediately,” he promised after the force field was raised and then he was gone. Ja’hara lay down on the bed, facing the wall, as a sly grin came to her lips. ~ I’m sure Lore will understand. ~ She then fell asleep, tired but not as exhausted as she would have been if she had been with her husband.

As soon as Data reached the bridge he asked the captain if he could speak with him in the ready room.

“Captain, I wish to speak with you regarding the custody transfer of Ja’hara to the Ama’shega.” Data then told the captain what he had learned about the treatment of the ‘pleasure women’ and the prison colonies operating in that system.

“I had no idea conditions were so bad there. I will contact Starfleet Command with this information and recommend against transferring custody of Ja’hara.”

“Thank you, sir.” Data then returned to his ops station to begin his shift.

It was an ordinary shift on the Enterprise. Data and Geordi were crawling through Jeffries tubes conducting an inspection of the EPS conduits.

“How did your meeting with Ja’hara go last night?” Geordi asked. He had told Data the day before he did not think it was a good idea for him to be alone with that woman.

“It went very well,” Data responded.

“So you got everything you wanted from her?” Of course, Geordi was only referring to information.

“Yes, I found our time together to be quite beneficial,” Data informed his friend. “Geordi, as the events that transpired between myself and Ja’hara were quite personal, I do not wish to discuss them until I have had further opportunity to analyze what happened.”

“Okay, Data, but if you want to talk to me about it you know where to find me,” Geordi added. Data’s choice of words concerned him but he did not want to push his friend either.

As Data and Geordi were conducting the inspection, Captain Picard was discussing Ja’hara’s fate with Admiral Nechayev at Starfleet Command. A moment after the subspace communication concluded, Commander Riker joined Picard in the ready room.

“Number One, change course to Star Base 127, warp four,” Picard ordered. “And have security bring Ja’hara to my ready room.

“Sir?” Riker responded, surprised by the captain’s latter order.

“I must admit my curiosity regarding this woman has been piqued. The affect she has on both Lore and our Mr. Data is quite astounding. I think it would be beneficial to know as much about her as possible.”

Ja’hara was not surprised to see Worf coming towards her cell in the brig. What did surprise her was his announcement that he was taking her to see the captain. It only took a couple of minutes before they were standing outside the ready room, ringing for admittance.

“Come,” Picard called out.

“I have brought the prisoner as you requested, sir,” Worf said, as he escorted Ja’hara in to the room.

“Thank you, Mr. Worf. That will be all.”

“But sir,” Worf protested. “I believe it would be best for me to stay in case she tries anything.”

“That won’t be necessary. You’re dismissed, Mr. Worf.”

“Aye, sir,” the Klingon responded before reluctantly returning to the bridge.

“Klingons,” Ja’hara laughed as she shook her head. “They’re not a very friendly bunch, are they.”

“Mr. Worf is a good officer and a honorable man,” Picard countered.

“So there really are honorable Klingons,” she remarked as she sat in a chair in front of Picard’s desk. “The ones I’ve met all spoke of honor but certainly didn’t exhibit that trait around me.” She studied the captain for a moment before speaking. “I was surprised when your Kling...Mr. Worf told me you wanted to see me, Captain. May I ask why I am here?”

“Curiosity,” Picard answered. “You are certainly a very unique individual and I’d like to know more about you.”

“You really know how to sweet talk a lady, Captain,” Ja’hara laughed.

“Before we begin I want to inform you that you will not be turned over to the Ama’shega. We will be arriving at Star Base 127 in five hours where you will be held until you are transferred to the rehabilitation colony on Galor II.”

“Thank you, Captain,” she sighed, her relief obvious. “I wish there was some way I could properly express my gratitude to you.”

“You could start by answering some questions for me,” Picard suggested.

“I will do my best to satisfy your curiosity,” she said, giving the captain a quick wink.

Picard began to pepper Ja’hara with several questions hoping she would slip up and give some indication to where Lore may have gone. Almost twenty minutes passed when Ja’hara very subtly changed the focus of their talk away from her and to Shakespeare by asking Picard about the book in the display case. He was surprised by Ja’hara’s knowledge of the ancient Earth playwright but then he did not know it had been part of her ‘schooling’. They traded quotes, discussed plays and, without realizing it, Picard was enjoying himself.

Ja’hara was now standing at the window staring out at the stars. “I love looking at the stars,” she sighed. “When I was young I would gaze up at the night sky for hours, wondering what life was like on other planets. Tell me about these stars, Jean-Luc.” Picard moved next to Ja’hara and began pointing out various stars and telling her what he knew about them. “You are a fascinating man, Jean-Luc Picard.” She leaned forward, kissing him lightly on the cheek. “Now, tell me about this painting and the artist. It’s beautiful!” she commented. Taking his hand, Ja’hara led him to the painting hanging over the couch. Everything after that was a blur for Picard. One moment he was telling Ja’hara about the artist and the next he was on top of her on the couch, kissing her passionately as his hands roamed her body. It was the sound of the door chimes that brought Picard back to reality. He jumped to his feet, adjusted his uniform and returned to his desk before calling for the person to enter.

“I am sorry to disturb you, sir,” Worf said not sounding apologetic. “Counselor Troi expressed concern for you.” Worf gave a quick glance at the slightly disheveled Ja’hara who was still sitting on the couch. “Are you okay, sir?” 

“Yes, Mr. Worf. I am fine, I’m fine. We’re finished. You can return Ja’hara to the brig,” Picard instructed.

“Yes, sir.”

When he was alone, Picard walked to the replicator in the alcove of his ready room. “Tea, Earl Grey, hot,” he ordered. He returned to his desk, placing the tea in front of him, staring at the liquid as if it would magically explain to him what had just occurred. ~ How the hell did that happen?! ~ He chastised himself. ~ One thing is clear, I certainly understand what happened to Mr. Data now. ~ He took a sip of his tea. ~ Data! He was alone with her in his quarters. I wonder if - no, he wouldn’t. Not after what happened before...or would he? ~

When the Enterprise reached Star Base 127, Ja’hara was escorted to transporter room three by Worf. She was surprised to see the number of people who had come to see her off.

“Do all your prisoners receive such a grand send-off?” she grinned as she glanced at the six senior officers who stood before her. As Picard was standing the closest to her, she stopped in front of him first.

“Thank you again, Captain, especially for our talk. It was very enjoyable, wasn’t it?” She kissed him on the cheek before whispering in his ear, “Maybe one day we’ll have an opportunity to finish what we began.” She then ran her tongue along the edge of his ear before briefly sucking on his lobe. She moved past Riker, giving the curious first officer a wink and a sexy smile before stopping in front of Deanna Troi. “Counselor, you look troubled. Would you like to talk?” she smirked. Walking past Geordi, finally she was standing in front of the android second officer. “Sweet Data, I am going to miss you,” she smiled as she gently caressed his cheek. She then slid her hand to the back of his head, pulling him to her for a passionate kiss before his stunned friends. Ja’hara moved to the transporter pad and, in an instant, she was gone.

The group stood silently until Deanna Troi finally spoke. “Captain, I am available any time should you wish to speak to me about anything.” She then turned to Data, “I want you in my office after your shift is over.” She then left the transporter room as the men stared at the now empty transporter pad.

Chapter Six

Ja’hara was taken to the rehabilitation colony on Galor II three days later. She played the role of model prisoner hoping her efforts would win her release sooner rather than later. Ja’hara spoke regularly to a counselor who, over time, became convinced she was over Lore. She stopped wearing her wedding ring to prove it to the gullible psychologist although she did still keep the ring with her at all times in a secret pocket.

Ten months after arriving, Ja’hara qualified for the training program offered at the colony. She was, however, able to convince the counselor that she was the perfect choice for the lab technician training provided at the research annex of the Daystrom Institute located on Galor IV. Of course her reasons for wanting the position had nothing to do with rehabilitation. Not only would she learn about cybernetics, she would also be in the perfect location to find out about Lore should anything happen to him.

An additional fourteen months passed when the counselor informed Ja’hara that she was deemed rehabilitated and would be released in three weeks. Ja’hara’s excitement soon turned to horror when, a week later, she learned through the annex grapevine of Lore being shot by Data on Lore’s World and his subsequent disassembling. She buried her feelings as deep as she could so her release would not be jeopardized. When she discovered Lore was to be brought to the annex to be studied, she began to formulate a plan to save her husband.

The first few steps of her plan were easily accomplished. She spoke to the officer in charge of civilian personnel requesting she be allowed to remain as a lab tech at the annex upon her release. The effort required on her part to convince him was minimal. Then the colony’s counselor agreed to take Ja’hara to a nearby star base so she could replenish her very limited wardrobe with clothing appropriate to working at the annex. She was able to acquire a few items necessary for her plan by distracting the counselor with a request for him to choose a swimsuit and nightwear for her.  Soon she was ready, now all she had to do was wait.

A week after her release, Ja’hara learned the container holding her disassembled love would be arriving at the annex the next day. She began to put her plan in motion by requesting the colony’s counselor visit her on Galor IV. He believed her when she said how scared she was to be so close to Lore, even if he was disassembled. He arrived in the morning to comfort Ja’hara through her pain but it was the counselor who would be feeling no pain. She quickly sedated him with a hypospray. He would be pleasantly napping for at least twelve hours. Step one, “borrowing” the counselor’s ship was now successfully completed. She had already convinced the officer in charge of the “Lore project” to allow her to be in the lab when they opened the container. She needed the closure, she explained.

Ja’hara joined the small team that had been assigned to the Lore project in the lab. She watched as the container was opened, letting out a quiet gasp at the sight of her husband in pieces. The scientists placed each body part on an examination table and were about to start their work when Ja’hara made her move. Reaching in to her bag, she pulled out a phaser.

“Excuse me, Commander Maddox, I’m afraid there’s been a slight change of plans,” Ja’hara informed the team leader, pointing the phaser directly at him.

“What the hell!” Maddox exclaimed. One of the team members tried to rush Ja’hara. She turned the phaser on him and fired.

“That was the stun setting,” she stated, as she adjusted the phaser, “if anyone else tries to be a hero they won’t be so lucky.” She ordered the team to remove their communicators and place them on the counter. “Now Commander, seal the door and don’t try anything stupid or sleeping beauty will be dead beauty.”

“Computer, seal the door to the lab,” Maddox ordered. “You won’t get away with this. We’re expecting several guests any minute now.”

“You mean you didn’t get a copy of your own communication,” she laughed. “Your little party has been postponed. You were so eager to get started on your work. Here’s your new assignment, Commander, reassemble and repair my husband NOW!“ she ordered. “Oh, and don’t forget, your lives depend on your successfully completing this assignment.”

It took several hours before the reassembly of Lore was complete. It was now time for the moment of truth.

“Activate him,” she commanded Maddox.

Maddox did as he was told. Lore sat up, looking around the lab confused until he saw her.

“Ja’hara, my love, you look beautiful,” he smirked. He jumped off the table to join his wife.

“Are you okay? He didn’t do anything to you, did he?” she asked, keeping her eyes on Maddox.

“I’m operating perfectly. I’m looking forward to showing you how much I’ve missed you,” he whispered in her ear. “So, my wife, how are we getting out of here?”

“In my bag, there are two personal transporters. I have a ship ready to go,” she smiled. Lore dug in her bag, pulled out the transporters, attaching one to Ja’hara’s arm and one to his own. Ja’hara had reset the phaser to the stun setting. “Okay folks, it’s been fun but we have to go now. Have a nice sleep,” she said, firing the phaser at each of the scientists.  They activated their personal transporters, dematerializing in a glistening light.

Once aboard the ship, Ja’hara ran to the helm, set a course and within minutes they left the Galor System and were at maximum warp.

“Where are we going?” Lore asked. Ja’hara pushed a couple of buttons on the panel, activating the automatic helm control.

“I’ve heard Terlina III is nice this time of year,” she smiled. “Very private, the last place anyone would think to look for us.”

“Perfect,” Lore laughed, pulling Ja’hara into his arms. He took hold of her left hand, bringing it down in front of him. “Where’s your ring?” Ja’hara removed it from her pocket, handing it to Lore. He slid it back on her finger, smiling as he did. They kissed passionately for many minutes. He had missed her sweet lips so much. “I love you, Ja’hara.” Lore carried Ja’hara to the small ship’s living quarters, intending to show her just how much. 

“I love you too, Lore.” She reclaimed his mouth for an even more passionate kiss. The need to make love was overwhelming for them both. It had been so long - too long since they had been together. They made love for most of the ten days it took to reach Terlina III.

Lore and Ja’hara had been gone for hours by the time security discovered the scientists. Starfleet Command was notified immediately of Lore’s reassembly and escape. The entire fleet was on the lookout for the android and his wife but no trace of them was ever found.