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By : FireStar

Beta Terry

Any mistakes after are Lisa's alone.

Disclaimers: Gene Roddenberry and the Corporations own Star Trek and all TOS characters. Any others are inventions of the Author.

Summary: This is a sequel to IDIC New Beginnings. Amanda and Sarek are now married by Earth standards and have begun their journey to Vulcan. An unexpected outbreak on an Andorian colony requires the Surak to lend humanitarian aid. The Surak is attacked but escapes. In an effort to avoid war the colony's Governor Felix gives a reception honoring the Vulcan's assistance. Amanda uses this to help foster better relations. Sarek, unwilling to disappoint his new bride and seeing an opportunity, allows her to invite them home to Vulcan.

IDIC-New Frontiers

Part 93 (Conquerors)

The dinner was in full swing. President Adar watched the room with dismay. He watched, as diplomats from all over the Federation seemed to be attempting to curry favor with Amanda Grayson. While it was, clear to all that this was Vulcan has most revered family and revered house all knew whom they owed their invitations to. The small human sat beside her Vulcan with a regal grace that belied her youth.

"Mr. President she looks like a queen holding court. "Admiral Wilson said.

"Softly Admiral. Do not for get Vulcan's have excellent hearing."

The reprimand made the officer blush. The President could not deny he claim.

While it was Skon, who now sat on the Vulcan council it was clear that Sarek now would be the one to speak to others for Vulcan. It was also clear that he would be listened to because his human wife had managed to charm every delegate here. He narrowed his eyes and realized what a dangerous combination that pair could be. Sarek with an intellect that was razor share and a logical mind that could find any weakness and exploit it and Amanda so sweet and charming that she made it impossible for anyone to be threatened by Sarek.

After all, who would believe that the Ambassador could be that strong and dangerous when his human wife clearly adored him? Everyone looking on could see that the Vulcan clearly indulged her.

This party / conference were as much social as political. No , Amanda disarmed the delegates and made them relax and Sarek then swooped in and herded them to his side. Worse yet ,they liked Amanda so they followed him like sheep to be sheared.

Adar swallowed his whiskey and it had a bitter flavor. Earth newest threat was not the Romualns or the Klingons ,no it was one of their own. He never saw that Amanda could actually help smooth over their relations.

"She is totally wrapped up in him." Admiral Wilson said a little disproving.

Farina heard that and signed. While Andorian hearing was not as sharp as a Vulcan's she could not let that comment pass. She walked over the two humans.

"A wife should be wrapped up in her husband and so should he in her. Amanda clearly loves Sarek. She is loyal only to him. Do not speak to make trouble between them."

Both men looked shocked. Andoria was Earth's second closest ally after Vulcan. Yet now they wondered.

"Amanda is my friend. Sarek has done our people a great service. We will not forget that."

The Admiral stiffened. "We do not like threats Madam"

Farina smiled. "Neither do I like my friends being threatened. Understand this Admiral Amanda came down to our colony when there was great risk. She helped with the sick when it could have endangered her. Amanda and T'Lara helped us nurse the worst cases and offered to take them back to our home world. Her husband risked much to bring us the antidote even if we have not always been the closest allies. They opened their home to us and shared what they had. We do not forget our fiends and does something bad happen to either of them. Earth will lose two allies."

"You are not the Ambassador." The President said angry now. Ho dare she threaten him.

Farina smiled. "No I am not. 'She sipped her tea. "I do not have to be as polite as Felix. If harm befalls them, I will claim blood vengeance and all my house will side with me. That includes my younger brother. "

The admiral laughed. "And why should that worry us?"

Felix came to his wife side sensing her anger. "Because My wife is head of her house even if her brother rules our people."

The president paled. "Your brother is-"

Felix grinned, "To quote my Vulcan friend "Indeed. He is the commander of the Imperial Guard and our people's supreme commander. He is very indulgent to his sister, even if he makes me her mate work hard and long."

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Sarek watched the by play as he stood by Amanda's side. Even with his keen hearing, he could not hear what was being said. Yet it was clear that the Humans felt threatened as they paled. He glanced down and was pleased to see his wife had not noticed her friends threatening her compatriots.

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Garak danced with Adrianna as he heard the threat Farina made. One more piece of information to file away. He decided he had better warn Sarek and perhaps his own government. He would wait on that and consider all sides. He liked the Andorian and did not wish to see her used as a pawn. He held his wife close and wondered why he could not just stay here forever. His mind drifted as he listened to the soft waltz. He wondered again how he had been conned into coming to Vulcan. Garak had sent a message to his commander telling him of his trip. He sighed and admitted it was a little strange to be the first Romulan on years to be on Vulcan. The moment he had steeped off the shuttle pad the heat had hit him. He looked out across the plain and his mind had screamed "Home" A strange peace had enveloped him and he at last understood why his government wanted Vulcan back. It was almost as if the planet itself called to him on some deeper level. He loved Romulus but even now accepted he would likely never again see his home world again. Vulcan had hit him on a deeper primal level. Garak knew he did not want to leave it. This was where he belonged and he knew he would defend her to his last breath. Adrianna sighed as she read his thoughts. She had expected this would happen after what Amanda had shared about the planet. She could not be disappointed though she loved Earth dearly. Yet, like Amanda Earth would now only be a place to visit. Vulcan was going to be home. She laid her head against Garak and smiled. It was a good thing she loved the sun.

Skon watched, as their guests seemed fascinated with the fortress. To him it was simply his home. What he saw in the eyes of the visiting dignitaries was awe and perhaps fears. He was perplexed at this response. T' Lara walked to his side.

"They seem disturbed my husband?"

"Yes, I wonder why they seem to fear this home of ours."

Daniel and T' Mara walked over each carrying a drink for their parents. Daniel grinned. "This place scared the poogies out of them. It is a reminder of what Vulcan's people can do. "

"It is only a building." T' Lara said

Daniel broke out laughing unable to contain himself. "Mother it is carved out of a mountain. More over it was carved out before humans were even using bronze tools. You tamed a dessert and there is water flowing out there. A garden that rivals the best we have on earth."

Both his parents still looked confused. They clearly did not understand what Daniel meant.

"Daniel it was a long time ago." T'Mara said She to not understanding what simple architecture could mean.

"Yes, but it shows how strong you are, that you are warriors at the heart of it. You tamed a world harsher then any other. I mean look at it from a human point of view. While Vulcan is lovely it is a living hell for a people used to water richness. Your people mastered hell and that is scary."

"This is our home not hell." T' Lara said stiffly. She was slightly offended at her son's words.

Daniel grinned. "I know. However, they do not think they could have done it. Do you understand? Most races would never settle such a world without extensive terra forming. Your people built this and it just a building to you. It is just there. That is what shocks them the fact that such great deeds are simply taken for granted as if they have little importance."

Skon brow went up as understanding hit. The awe was not for the buildings bit for the people that built them. "They see us as conquers?"

Daniel smiled "Yes father they see that you have tamed your world. Of course that is worthy of respect."

Part 94 (Alpha Pair )

"Daniel Vulcan is a peaceful world." T 'Lara insisted. "We have no desire to conquer anyone."

Daniel brow rose a trait he was rapidly picking up from his family. "Lematya , firestorms, lava wind that can ripe the skin from your body and this is peaceful?"

The three Vulcans looked at him clearly perplexed.

"That is just nature. We do not harm the wildlife and we do not tame natures forces." Skon said

Daniel laughed "Maybe that is the point father. You could but choose not to. "

It was T'Mara who gained full understanding as a security chief she long ago learned to temper her responses to fit the situation. "It is that we have the power though we choose to not use it."

"Yes, Look at it this way. Everyone sees Cerberus as a puppy funny and sweet. A pet that is loving and kind." Daniel pointed out the Pup who was sitting at Amanda's feet. "Now watch."

Several Star Fleet officers walked over to Sarek and Amanda and the pup stood up his hackles rising and his teeth bared. He may have only been about 60 pounds but he was protective. They watched as the animal they had all regarded as harmless placed himself between Amanda, Sarek and the Star Fleet officers. As if he sensed their unease.

In an instant the pet became the protector ,and predator more wild then tame.

"See, they are realizing that appearances can be deceptive. Vulcan may be peaceful but it is capable of protecting itself and shedding its civilized facade. In the last months that point has been driven home most clearly. Now they come here and see what forged your race. Of course they are afraid. You will get any concessions you ask for Father because they are afraid. In time they will relax but given that it was Vulcan and not Terra that saved the diplomats you are now "Top Dog" No pun intended. " Daniel said "In many ways Terra is like a wolf pack. They see others in that light and aspect. As of now Amanda and Sarek have just become Vulcan's Alpha pair and Earth is concerned. "

"Daniel Vulcan does not have pack animals." T' Lara said

Daniel grinned "You do now." He was clearly enjoying this picture.

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Amanda watched Cerberus and sighed he had been being so good. She hated the idea of having to lock him up. Sarek leaned down and placed a calming hand on the pup. He knew the animal was reacting to his emotions. He forced his controls tighter. The animal looked up at him and then sat back down between his mistress and her mate.

"That is an interesting dog you have." Admiral Wilson said.

"He is a mutt but he is sweet." Amanda said

The admiral looked at her and then at Sarek. That animal was solid muscle and he had the jaws of a pit bull. He was protective and clearly warning everyone he was protecting the two beings behind him. Wilson was surprised to see the animal relax at Sarek's light touch. Watching now he saw the animal shift to Amanda Grayson's side as if ordered by Sarek to guard her. Amanda reached down and stroked the animal and it seemed to relax more dropping down at her feet it even closed its eyes.

"I am afraid he is very protective of Sarek and I." Amanda said

"Well dogs are man's best friend." the Admiral said smiling falsely.

Amanda laughed as she watched Sarek's response. "It would seem Cerberus is different.

"He is as protective as a Sehlat."

The pup looked up and Amanda laughed.

"Really , Sarek , that is alright Cerberus I know you are not like that giant kitty/bear. He is a dog Sarek you insulted him." She was clearly enjoying teasing her husband to Wilson's shock Sarek merely raised a brow.

"Kitty/Bear ?" Sarek said.

Just then IL Echia came barreling in. He did not like that he had been locked in his masters room. He sensed Sarek's unease and came running to protect his master.

Admiral Wilson and several officers froze as the giant Saber toothed Cat came in. He had leaped from the balcony and was now stalking the terrified Starfleet officer.

"Ah Sarek you better get your kitten." Amanda said laughing.

"Kitten?" A pale admiral thought "Kitty/ Bear that thing was a bloody saber toothed tiger as big as a grizzly bear and Amanda called it a kitty/bear kitten?"

Cerberus began to bark as everyone turned as Sarek reached down and caught his Sehlat fur.

Daniel looked on and was laughing hard. Garak looked on and hid his amusement at the humans terror. Not that he blamed him a fully grown Sehlat was a frightening thing growling and baring its six inch fangs.

Sarek leaned down to his pet. "Go to our quarters all is well."

The animal growled clearly not agreeing. Amanda bit back her laughter and quickly looked away at Sarek's glare. I told you he was not going to like being locked up.

He was not locked up merely allowed to rest in our room.

Amanda grinned as Cerberus went to the sehlats side the two animals each determined to protect their human and Vulcan.

"Sarek that is not a kitten." Admiral Wilson said rather loudly and with fear in his voice.

"IL Echia is over 60 years old well past his cub stage." Sarek said "He should know better then to charge in when we have guests."

"Sarek the poor baby has likely never seen so many different people around of course he is going to be protective of you."

"Indeed that would seem the case." Sarek said feeling a little sheepish at the animals stubborn natures.

Part 95 (Caged power)

The Admiral was paralyzed with fear. He had faced Klingons and Romulans and not blinked and eye. Yet here stood Sarek petting a saber toothed tiger like it was a common house cat. He been slightly afraid of Amanda's dog, but a dog was something he understood. This cat on the other hand was a thing of his nightmares. It had to be over 200 pounds of solid muscle and it had six inch long fangs. The paws were as large as his size fifteen shoe.

The claws on the creature looked like sharp daggers and Sarek Damn him was petting it and running his fingers over its fangs. Wilson swallowed hard and wondered how such a people could be so fearless as to tame such things as pets. He watched as Sarek attempted to move the creature out of the room. It stubbornly remained at his masters side.

"Sarek maybe you should take the puppy out. You know that "IL Echia will follow you both."

"Perhaps you are correct, It is logical to assume IL Echia will follow us." Sarek said He looked at the pup. "Come Cerebus lets go outside. IL Echia come."

The puppy jumped up eager to go play he was on Sarek's heels. IL Ehcia growled clearly not pleased and followed after Sarek and the puppy. He was not going to be left behind.

Amanda stifled a giggle Sarek had such a look of contrition on his face. She knew he was battling laughter at the situation and sending him out would help his controls. The look on the human's face was amazing. She rose and excused herself to gain control herself. She walked over to see Skon and T' Lara hoping their presence would help her control her own emotions.

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Garak watched the Sehlat and Dog follow Sarek outside. He grinned and decided that Rordan would need a pet. He rather liked the Sehlat and the dog had presented a reasonable option as well.

"Oh no. We are not having one of those things as a pet. It would eat Rordan."

"Adrianna we will need one. After all you are soon to have a baby. Rordan already asked me if he could have a puppy. I said we procure him one once we found a house."

"Do you have any idea how much work a puppy is?"

"No, he said every boy needed a dog. He showed me several documentaries on it. One was called Benji, then there was Rin Tin Tin. I believe a dog would be a good protector and a Sehlat would give us all extra comfort and protection here on Vulcan. I gave him my word."

Garak gave her a look like a little boy eager to please.

Adrianna sighed and realized her son was very resourceful. "It is not required and that was a video."

Garak looked at her and she sighed knowing that they would be getting a puppy and a Sehlat cub. The look was just to much to resist. Garak looking like a little child pleading. Her heart melted. Her husband was trying to make it work with her son. She sighed. "Alright. Buy him his pets. Garak you get to help teach him to care for them. "

Garak smiled and hugged her. Adrianna wondered how many more times he would wrap her around his fingers because she suddenly knew she would never deny him anything.

Fifteen minutes latter Sarek came back in. He quickly went to his wife's side as T' Para came out to announce Dinner would be served. Sarek escorted Amanda into the dinning area and they were followed in. Everyone took their seats as Sarek and Amanda joined Skon and T'Lara at the head table.

Skon looked at Sarek for a moment his eyes showing a pride that slightly shocked his eldest son. Skon then faced their guests.

"Welcome to you all. I am going to hand this over to my son and his lovely wife as it was their idea to invite you all to our home. Know that we are honored to have you all here." Skon said

Sarek bowed slightly to his father and faced the now seated guests. He extended his fingers to his wife. Amanda took them and stood at his side. A united front that calmly faced delegates from every Federation world and Vulcan's allies.

"Welcome to the Keep. Once this great building defended the city from invaders now it is a reminder that to have peace one must remain vigilant and strong. It reminds us all that family and our friends are the most important things. Everyone here is a family member or an ally. That is what the Federation is an alliance of individual worlds and domains united to protect each other. I hope that our being here at the keep helps us all remember that Peace comes through eternal vigilance and strength. That the unity of purpose ensures prosperity for all. Now please satisfy your huger and thirst and know that Vulcan only seeks peace with her friends and allies. That we seek to find new ones to greet as equals. As Surak said Infinite Combinations and Infinite Diversity that is what makes us strong. To New Frontiers where we may find many new peoples who will someday be friends."

The Preservers watched as Sarek's golden tongue one over the delegates even Earth a few hours latter would agree that the Prime Directive should be adopted so new peoples could gain a starting point of trust.

"Amanda has done it. She has show Sarek how to bend." Harmony said

"Yes and she is blending the cultures. Soon it will be as North America a mosaic piece. Each adding a different shade and texture to the Federation. They will together lay the ground work to peace in this Galaxy." Gabriel said smiling.

"And with Garak's help reunification with Romulus and Remis will also be possible." Michael said smiling.

"The child Amanda will soon carry will bend those worlds to his will. He will help save the Klingons and he will take a Romulan as his bride. His friendship with the Regent will mend the rifts between humans and Romulans. "

"Their grand daughter will sit upon the Romulan throne and that will draw them to an alliance with the Federation. Young Daniel will protect them and help create the new race. A race of human/Vulcan children. "Harmony said smiling. "His and T' Mara's example will ensure that Sarek gifts his wife with the son we must have."

"Adrianna will tame Garak and this will ensure that Romulus will be wary of the Federation long enough for their to be peace. "

Gabriel frowned "The children that are being bred for Romulus will frightened Vulcan. We can not stop those crimes from occurring."

"Yes but it is because of them that She will be born. A warrior strong an true. One with the will to protect her mate against all odds and to birth the ruling line." Harmony said "She will be forged in Hades itself but her light will be a balm to his confused soul. She alone will understand him."

"We have done all we can for now." The eldest said "Come now we must check on our other children. They to must be made ready."

Gabriel laughed as he watched the Federation being bent to the will of one small human girl who wielded her power so subtly not even her Vulcan mate understood she was guiding them to peace. Gabriel wondered absently if Amanda even realized the influence she was having? Did she even know her presence was changing everything? He decided it did not matter as long as it lead to peace.

The End

Or is it perhaps the beginning of a New Galaxy?

Next Installment : IDIC - Future King.