Strangely enough, getting locked in a closet in a transporter room isn't one of the recommended steps that a young officer needs to take in order to get a promotion in Starfleet. Unless, of course, you're a man like Mr. Adventure. In which case, feel free to be held up by your superior officer's phaser whenever you want.

Written for the 2014 March Challenge:

Write a story with the opening or closing line “Before the dying of the light,” any Trek setting or characters.

Featuring a glimspe into Cyste Ryaenn's experiences.

Musical inspiration Track 21: Seppuku from 47 Ronin, music by Ilan Eshkeri

Winner: Before the Dying of the Light Challenge 

Striking out has a more permanent effect on a crewman than would normally be expected.  Takes place on October 28, 2153.

It's been a year since J.J., Seth and Ariah enrolled in the Academy.

But as their sophomore year begins, the cadets will face new foes and new dangers. Meanwhile, alliances and friendships will be tested as one cadet comes face to face with the darkest parts of their own soul.

And, an old (or new, depending on your sense of temporal mechanics) enemy reemerges to put them, the Academy and Earth itself in jeopardy...

The return of Spock's daughter, T'Beth, is marred by suspicion. It only grows worse when Spock and his family become the targets of harassment.

Image courtesy of Napong at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

Spock's daughter has crashed on Donari and there is every reason to presume she is dead. Now see what happens as the story continues...

Image courtesy of papaija2008 at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

The rift between Spock and his daughter T'Beth seems final when she leaves school to join the Border Patrol.

Image courtesy of Stuart Miles at FreeDigitalPhotos.net