Title: Break Down In the Shape of Things to Come
Fandom: White Collar, Star Trek Reboot
Pairing: Peter/Neal
Categories: Drama, Romance, Fusion/Crossover, Accidental Bonding
Length: Super Epic (102,181 words)
Warnings: references to non-main-character dubcon and rape, teacher/student relationship

Author on LJ: shaenie
Author Website: shaenie

Summary:
After the battle in the Laurentian System, the Defiance requires extensive repairs, leaving Captain Burke filling in at Starfleet Academy (whether he wants to or not), where he meets troubled half-Vulcan Neal Caffrey, under what are not the best circumstances for either of them.

Review:
Wholly set in the Star Trek universe--post Narada incident--but focused entirely on the characters of White Collar, the story is an epic-length drama about the relationship that develops between Peter and his student and advisee Neal, after they accidentally bond. Of course, they don't even realize that's what happened at first. Their strained student/teacher relationship develops first into one of mutual respect as Peter deals with the challenges of being a grounded captain, acting as a teacher and academic advisor to all the Vulcan first-year cadets, and Neal deals with his chagrin at an initial bad meeting with the captain, forms friendships with the other Vulcan cadets and explores his unusual telepathic abilities.

The thing I really respected about the story is that it doesn't shy away for the complications of a student/teacher relationship. Peter reacts very in character, not willing to compromise his values or Neal's position or reputation by being fully involved while they are still student and teacher. This is complicated, of course, by the growing bond between them that they have to figure out and navigate, with the help of some well-drawn original characters (the other Vulcan cadets), as well as Peter's second in command, Diana, and medical officer, Elizabeth. Another aspect of the problems inherent in a student/teacher relationship is explored as Peter deals the possible misconduct of other instructors, and must run up against the Academy administration and Starfleet higher-ups to get some much-needed changes made.

Beyond all that, it's a thoroughly enjoyable romance, of two people getting to know each other and choose each other even after the choice was thrust upon them. By the end, you're really rooting for Neal and Peter to get past the hang-ups and obstacles in their paths, and there is a very happy resolution. Further, it's just what I crave in a Star Trek fusion, with the characters seamlessly integrated into Trek 'verse. Peter's characterization, in particular was well adapted; I like the idea of him as a Starfleet captain, and the way he works for and cares for all his students just felt very Peter of him. It's a fun story and a nice long read you can really sink your teeth into.

Break Down In the Shape of Things to Come