Until the End of the World

Fanfiction
Title:	Until the End of the World
Author(s):	Atara Stein
Date(s):	1997
Length:
Genre(s):	slash
Fandom(s):	Star Trek: TNG
Relationship(s):
External Links:	Trekiverse
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Until the End of the World is a Star Trek: TNG Picard/Q story by Atara Stein.

Series

• She Moves in Mysterious Ways
• With or Without You
• Until the End of the World

Reactions and Reviews

Imprisoned by the Continuum in order to prevent his interference in the events of "First Contact", Q must watch helplessly as Picard confronts the Borg again, stirring up feelings of guilt and powerlessness in the previously omnipotent entity. As Picard's rage and frustration fuel his recklessness, Q counters his own unaccustomed sense of inadequacy by deciding that not only is he bad for Picard, but that contrary to what he previously thought, Picard doesn't need him, to the great consternation of Picard, returned from the past and in need of support.

This is the most complex story of the series, and my favorite, to judge by the mad scribblings on my print copy.

The relationship portrayed here is very human and realistic, as a couple comes to realize that sometimes the very things that attract and intrigue you about another person can be absolutely maddening and frustrating, as well.

One of the most interesting aspects is the contrast drawn between Picard's powerlessnes as Locutus, and his powerlessness against Q. Where the former nearly destroyed him, the latter could fulfil him, if both men could come to terms with the effect they have on each other. As well, there are excellent explorations of Picard's growing understanding and perception of Q. As with the preceding story, it is a subtle exploration of two very independent, strong-willed beings attempting to forge a relationship while coming to grips with their own needs and weaknesses. As Q says:

"I want and I need to get all the way inside you, but I'm not supposed to need you at all..."

It is a story that is very satisfying, as both men get what they want, and what they need. Q, to "get all the way in", and P, to let go completely, freed by the knowledge that he is safe in Q's hands. It reaches it's heart in the, ummm, climactic scene of P's total submission to Q, a scene both rough and painful, as painful as one might imagine possible with an omnipotent lover. Ultimately, P is freed by being completely possessed, and totally known, while his submission brings Q a measure of peace in the face of his own limitations and powerlessness to keep Picard completely safe.

The issues of domination and submission play a strong role in this story. If you've never felt the desire to be able to surrender completely, much of it may go right past you, and possibly be very disturbing. On the other hand, it might go quite a ways towards trying to explain the whole concept.