Drastic Measures

by Dayton Ward

Known as a P-38, or “skeleton key” in Starfleet parlance, the tool was normally used by engineers and security personnel aboard starships as a means of bypassing the locking mechanisms of a starship’s interior and exterior pressure hatches. They could also be programmed for use by military and law enforcement personnel for situations like this one.

“Kirk. James Tiberius Kirk.” He cast a quick glance toward his mother. “You can call me Jim.”

From what Georgiou could see, he was a fount of raw, untapped potential, lacking only age, education, and experience. If he was anything like his parents had to be, and assuming his own desire to pursue such a path, young Jim Kirk had the makings of a first-rate Starfleet officer.

“Upholding a set of ideals can be difficult, and sometimes it’s damned cruel. Being able to do that, especially during times of adversity and crisis and even great personal tragedy, is the true test of anyone privileged to wear this.” Reaching up, she tapped her chest to indicate her Starfleet uniform.

Georgiou said, “It doesn’t, but you can’t blame an entire group of people for the actions of a few extremists. History is full of dire consequences brought on by that sort of thinking.”