Hell's Fury
by Catherine Henke and E.A. Karras

Chapter One

"Personal Log. Supplemental. It's been six months since the war with the Dominion began. And nearly 8 months since Dr. Zimmerman activated the dormant gene that gave me telepathic powers. Word from the battle lines is that we're losing, and losing fast. I can only hope that the Admiral's new plan will give us a step up in the battle to keep the Alpha Quadrant from Dominion hands.

On another note, Commander Data, of the USS Enterprise has recently been promoted to the commander of the Defiant, and if this plan works, the new Deep Space Nine.

*******

"Commander Dax, hail the Phoenix." Commander Data leaned back in the command chair, trying to get used to the feel of it. It was definitely different from the Enterprise.

"Aye sir," Dax replied. She tapped the console and glanced up as the screen changed its focus.

"Commander Data," Captain Owens said, standing. There was a formality to his stance. Dax felt tension seeping into her shoulders, knowing what was about to happen.

"Are you ready?" Data asked him, standing also.

Owens nodded. "We're awaiting your people, Commander."

"We're on our way." Data paused, remembering. Owens tipped his head in acknowledge and cut the connection. Data turned to Dax and Odo. "Let's go," he said. Dax nodded and glanced at Odo, who looked just as apprehensive. Data turned to Commander Ewan Thoren. "You know what to do."

Thoren nodded. "Aye sir."

*******

Bashir glanced up from the console he was at as the three of them walked in. He stood up slowly. "I take it you're beaming over," he said, moving to a tray.

Data nodded as Dax stepped forward. There was a very thin atmosphere on the station and, instead of having her and the other security officer be the only ones in a Zero Gravity suit, they had opted for them to have a hypo of triox and other compounds that would allow both to operate in the thin atmosphere.

Dax felt a tiny pain in the pit of her stomach as Julian gently injected the hypo. <Be careful> his mind whispered into hers.

<I will> she responded as he reached for a second hypo. She felt him mentally hug her and she gently dipped her head. <You be careful yourself> she thought.

<I promise> he sent, shooting a slight glance in Data and Odo's direction. Even though they had technically already said their goodbyes, he wished he could have one more moment alone with her. He took a step back and picked up a tiny hip pouch for her. "This has enough in there for several days," he said softly. "That should be enough."

Dax nodded and secured it to her belt as Bashir injected the compound into the other officer and hand him an identical pouch. She glanced at Data. "All set," she said. She felt Julian gently brush his hand over hers and Dax felt a million sensations flood her mind, yet not in an overwhelming manner, worry, caution, fear, love, sadness. She struggled not to turn back to Julian except for the briefest of glances as she walked out with Data and Odo.

*******

Dax took a deep breath, standing in the transporter room of the Phoenix. They had beamed over five minutes ago and hadn't moved from the padds. She glanced at Odo and then faced forward as she felt the deck shake slightly.

*******

Julian watched the screen as the Phoenix decloaked and swept towards the shell of the old station. The Dominion had been smart to carefully target an area which would have caused an explosion that wouldn't completely destroy the station...simply kill everyone on board. Julian bit back the bile that filled his mouth at that thought. He winced as the Phoenix shuddered under the fire. Julian could see that the shields had been lowered....or knocked out. <Please> he begged. <Let them make it....let her make it.> Julian felt his hands tighten as the ship started to pull away with the three Jem'Hadar warships following, firing all weapons on it. He reflexively slammed up his mental shielding as he felt the first signs of a warp core breach. The entire bridge stared in suppressed horror as the ship exploded.

"Is that all it takes?" an ensign whispered, staring in shock.

<No> Julian sent to the startled young man, catching the look Thoren sent the ensign. <They had to deliberately lower their shields. It takes a lot more than that.>

*******

Kira Nerys peered out at the Jem'Hadar troops passing her hiding spot. She didn't even breathe until they had passed out of sight. She glanced over her shoulder and motioned to Furel and Lupaza and the three of them crept forward. Kira glanced furtively around as they crept into a storage. Kira set the explosive for 30 seconds as Furel and Lupaza kept guard. "Let's go," Kira hissed. The three of them darted furtively out into the shadows as the bomb went off.

Chapter Two

Kira raised her mug. "Here's to the best raid so far," she smiled. "May those bastards die horrible deaths." The cavern filled with muted laughter and "here, here"s as the tin mugs clanked around the small group. Kira nodded in Rom's direction. "You're proving to be quite valuable," she smiled. "That bomb was perfect for the task."

"Well, it was quite simple to make, really," Rom murmured, glancing at Quark.

Kira shook her head and drained the rest of her water. She had absolutely hated the idea of having those two Ferengi near the resistance in any way, shape or form but, well, Rom truly had proven himself valuable and Quark had been deemed chef and ordered to keep out of the way by pain of death. Kira walked over to the mouth of the cave and glanced up. Millions of tiny lights winked back at her but the one she wanted to see the most was missing. Had been for quite a while.

*******

Dax took a deep breath and glanced at Odo. They were presently in a conduit over one of the crossover bridges. "There are three Jem'Hadar guards heading towards you now," Data hissed over the commbadge. Dax signaled acceptance and motioned to Odo to get ready. Odo slid to the other end of the conduit and signaled he was ready by forming a hand and waving at Dax. Dax bit back her laughter and began working on the forcefield overrides.

As she did so, Odo slid out of the ceiling slowly, startling the Jem'Hadar. They immediately froze at the sight of him.

Dax's hands flew over the controls, attempting to override the old security nets. Several seconds later, they snapped up. Dax grinned.

Odo heard the sound of the forcefields activating and immediately reformed, startling the guards even more. Dax slammed open an access panel and immediately stunned two of the three while Odo knocked out the last one. Dax glanced down at Odo and smiled slightly. "Three down," she gasped.

Odo glanced at her, concerned. "I think the Triox is wearing off Commander." He secured the Jem'Hadar guards.

Dax nodded and reached for her hip pouch. "I know. But it's not like I could take any in the middle of that." She snapped one of the cartridges into the hypo and injected it into her neck. Several seconds later, she felt her breathing ease. "Oh, that's much better," she murmured. She glanced down at Odo. "We'd better get going." Odo nodded and morphed into the conduit and Dax replaced the hatch.

*******

Julian paced almost aimlessly in the infirmary. It had been over an hour since Dax, Data and Odo had beamed aboard the old station and they were heading towards Bajor at maximum impulse. He organized some instruments, knowing that it would be a futile battle to do so since in a few hours, this place would be a madhouse. Julian glanced up to see Voorhies straightening also. He grinned. "This is the worst time, isn't it?" he said, breaking the stillness. "Waiting for the inevitable."

Voorhies glanced at him. "It's worse when you don't know what's really going on. Besides the obvious," he said, gesturing to the dimmed lighting of the cloak and the red alert lights.

Julian said nothing. The infiltration of DS9 was top secret. He couldn't talk about it with Voorhies or anyone else besides O'Brien and Thoren. He heard Voorhies sigh in frustration and turn away. Julian closed his eyes and sighed. He started when they decloaked. "Here we go," he said softly.

*******

Dax and Odo were in the main conduit, en route to Ops. The Triox was starting to wear off again, and it showed. Odo kept glancing at her, worried.

He was about to say something, when she glanced at him and nodded. She used the hypo, but didn't inject the full contents. After she pocketed the hypo, she looked at him. "How do you think the others are holding up?"

*******

Commander Data and Lt. Arnwar B'Ler, security officer of the Phoenix, had surprised another patrol of Jem'Hadar and were quietly securing them. Data glanced at B'Ler, again mildly shocked at seeing a Betazoid in the gold of security. B'Ler turned to face him. "We should move on towards Ops," he said.

Data nodded and opened another conduit and climbed in. B'Ler followed, closing the hatch behind them. The two climbed, B'Ler constantly scanning the area for Jem'Hadar soldiers. Data was moving as fast as he could without loosing B'Ler. B'Ler was surprisingly able to keep a quick pace for the fifteen flights to Operations. Data paused and then touched his commbadge, risking the brief communication. Dax and Odo had been ordered to wait once they were outside of Ops until he signaled them. He received the confirming buzz in response and nodded to B'Ler. "We're set," he whispered, reaching for the release.

*******

Julian moved quickly from patient to patient, calling out to the nurses present which could receive immediate care from them, which could wait and who he or Voorhies needed to be transported to the infirmary now. He knelt next to an ensign and called over to a nurse. "I need to get this one into surgery, stat!" The nurse scrambled over as Julian continued explaining what needed to be done. "She's ruptured part of her third ventricle of the choroid plexus and the cerebral aqueduct, on top of a fractured femur and clavicle." The nurse nodded and, with Julian's help, lifted the young woman onto the antigrav. Julian gave himself five more minutes to finish triage before turning the remainder of the work over to Voorhies and darting into surgery to repair the worst damage. He was halfway through sealing the rupture when the comm chirped.

"Dr. Bashir to the bridge. Medical emergency."

Bashir glanced up in surprise. Usually they didn't request for him specifically. He tapped his commbadge with the back of his gloved hand. "Bashir here. I'm sending Dr. Voorhies instead. I'm in the middle of...."

"I'm afraid not Doctor," a frantic voice rang out. "Commander Thoren was knocked unconscious. You're in command of the Defiant."

Julian froze and then glanced at the nurse. "Get Voorhies in here." She darted out and, while Julian continued to work, returned with Alan. "I need to report to the bridge," he said as Voorhies moved over, smoothly sliding into a surgical gown and pulling on gloves and a cap.

"I've almost finished sealing the third ventricle." Voorhies nodded and took over without a hitch. Julian shucked the gown, gloves and cap and took off for the bridge, bringing a medkit with him.

*******

"Report!" Julian called out, darting over to where Thoren lay.

"The Jem'Hadar have been drawn away briefly by the U.S.S Amazon . Commander Thoren was injured in the last blast."

Julian nodded, scanning him briefly. He had a concussion but other than that, his wounds weren't too severe. "Bashir to infirmary. Send a medteam when you can spare one. Bashir out."

The weapons officer looked shocked. "When they can spare one? But he's the commander of the ship."

Julian leveled a look at him, not in the mood. "If I called for a team to come now, he'd be taken down there and then placed at the back of the line anyhow. NOW, status report."

The ensign leapt to attention. "Jem'Hadar ships are withdrawing. We've suffered hits on decks six through eight. Hull breach on deck seven. Security forcefields in place."

Julian nodded. "Good," he murmured. "Hold position and maintain red alert. Get repair crews to deck seven immediately."

"Aye sir." The ensign turned to his duties as Julian sank down in the command chair.

Chapter Three

Dax thumbed the release and the hatch slid open, revealing Operations to her gaze. Three Jem'Hadar whirled towards the sound and immediately rushed the intruders. Dax raised her phaser, striking one square in the chest as she ducked behind one of the consoles as they fired back. Odo had morphed out, sliding behind consoles, flanking them. Data and B'Ler came out behind the soldiers and opened fire also. Within minutes, the three Jem'Hadar were unconscious.

Dax rushed for the environmental controls, calling up their status. "We have minimal function here. Enough to send anesthezine gas through the remainder of the station."

"Do it," Data said, moving towards the central station. He called up the readouts and began running diagnostics. Dax nodded and immediately began working at her controls. "I've set it to 1 million ppm just to be safe. I'll vent it in an hour.

"I have pinpoints on each Jem'Hadar lifesign on the station," Odo spoke up from the controls he had moved to.

"Good," Data said, mildly impressed. "B'Ler and I will move through the station and secure all the Jem'Hadar after Dax vents the anesthezine gas." He glanced around Ops. "Good work people. Mission accomplished."

*******

Bashir stared at the darkened view screen. There had been no return fire, no attempt at communications for over an hour. He stood with Barclay at the environmental controls. Thoren, having recovered nicely from his concussion, stood at the con.

"Doctor, we appear to be losing life support on Deck 5." Barclay glanced up at the doctor, to find him blinking rapidly, with a dazed look in his eyes. "Doctor?"

"Um...have everyone evacuate that section...we can't afford to transfer pow..." he swayed, the dazed look getting worse.

Suddenly there was a blast of light. He felt a shaking cold come over him. Space...he thought...it was space...

He stared ahead at what appeared to be a Dominion ship. His eyes widened as he saw it begin to power up weapons on the Defiant.

********

O'Brien stared at his friend, an odd look on his face. The doctor was lying on a biobed, a cold sweat had broken out and the doctor appeared to be in some kind of trance, similar to those he'd been in months before. but this was different, O'Brien could feel it. Something was wrong.

Due to triage, no one was doing much for Bashir, save a few scans to make sure he was alright.

*******

He was in a room now, all white. No visible doors. He should feel a little claustrophobic, but for some reason...this felt familiar...

"Doctor....Julian." a voice came from behind him. Sisko. It was Sisko.

He turned to see the former Captain standing in front of him. He looked the same as he had when Bashir had last seen him, maybe a few phaser burns.

"Captain..." Bashir's eyes narrowed. "But, you're dead."

*******

Suddenly, the biobed called out a cardioalert. Voorhies looked up, he ran over, glanced at the biomonitor. The doctor's heart rate had begun to rise to amazing rate. His blood pressure was 190/150. Suddenly the bed screeched in alarms. "What's happening?" O'Brien demanded, staring at Bashir's still form. The line monitoring his heart activity went flat line. Voorhies' hands flew over the controls. "His S-A node fired....the impulse didn't reach the A-V.." Voorhies whispered, his voice trailing off in shock. He quickly snapped out of it. "Cortical stimulators!" The nurse handed him them and Voorhies placed them on Bashir's forehead. He activated them, watching as the line jumped with the pulse and went back to flatline. He tried five more times, increasing the output each successive use. "It's not working," Voorhies murmured, glancing at the diagnostic readout.

A light lit his eyes briefly. "Four cc's of cordrazine!" he snapped. "And we need to inject it directly into his heart!" The nurse rushed off for the specific instrument.

"What do you mean?" O'Brien frowned as Voorhies reached frantically for a hypo the nurse was handing him. He carefully positioned it over Bashir's chest and inserted the needle. O'Brien watched in shock as Voorhies injected the contents. "What the hell are you doing?"

"Trying something new," Voorhies murmured, watching the readouts. He was partially rewarded when Bashir's heart started again, briefly stable but immediately began fribulating. "Damn," he hissed, reaching for the cortical stimulators again. He lowered the output and motioned to the nurse to stand back. He tapped the controls once again. "Work, damn you," he hissed.

*******

Julian stared in shock at Sisko. His mouth opened and closed again as Sisko watched, almost amused. Julian was about to ask him what was happening when he felt a sharp, yet vague pain radiate through his chest. His hand moved reflexively to his chest and he glanced down, as if he could see what was wrong with him. "What the hell..."

"Julian." His attention snapped back up again, staring at the man everyone had assumed was dead.

"How?" Bashir whispered. He felt oddly dizzy. Sisko caught his arm, as the doctor fell.

"Easy, doctor..." he stared Bashir right in the eye. "Doctor...I need you to do something for me....for Jake...and Dax."

*******

Kira stretched out near the mouth of the cave, gazing up at the night sky. She heard footsteps approaching from the cave and she glanced up. "Lupaza," she said, sitting up.

Lupaza smiled and sat down next to her. "You spend more time out here, staring up at the stars. Are you looking for something?"

Kira glanced at her and smiled sadly. She shook her head. "No. What I'm looking for isn't there anymore."

Lupaza nodded slowly. "The space station," she said, studying her friend. Kira nodded. "I keep thinking about having to leave...there had to have been something we could have done."

"Nerys, there was nothing you could do." Lupaza gazed up at the sky, in the general vicinity Kira was staring. Both women started when they saw a light blink into existence. "Nerys...did you just see that?"

Kira's eyes were wide in amazement. "You better believe I did. I think we just saw our salvation."

Chapter Four

Dax glanced up in delight as the lights flicked on. "Arnwar, you're a lifesaver."

The younger man glanced up, a grin crossing his grimy face. "You're welcome," he said.

The two of them had been working for twelve hours to get the main systems back on line. Dax brushed a lock of hair of her forehead and continued working on the communications. "I've almost got subspace back up," she grinned. She glanced around Ops and sighed sadly. "It'll work for now but I don't think we'll be able to stay."

B'Ler glanced at her, momentarily confused. "Oh, you mean after the plan."

Dax smiled and nodded. "This place has been home for several years." She turned back to her work. "At least they'll build a new one." B'Ler smiled and turned back to his work. "Ah!" Dax crowed a moment later. "Got it," she grinned.

Arnwar grinned and sat up. "Should we try it?" he asked.

"Not flying blind," Dax said, getting up and moving to another console. "Time to get the sensors up."

*******

Voorhies watched the doctor's vital signs rise and fall. O'Brien paced trying to figure this out.

Bashir's eyes fluttered open. He stared at the ceiling, dazed. His vision was doubled, his hearing echoed.

He stared at Voorhies, who was saying something to him.

"Julian? Can you hear me?" Bashir groaned and nodded. "Yes. What happened?"

Voorhies glanced at O'Brien. "I'm not quite sure yet. Basically, your heart stopped."

Julian glanced up at Voorhies and then over to O'Brien. "Oh," he managed. He wanted to talk with O'Brien alone.

"Doctor," O'Brien said, glancing at Voorhies, "I need to speak with Dr. Bashir alone for a moment."

"Of course," Voorhies murmured. He walked off. Julian glanced at O'Brien. "How long was I out?" he asked softly.

"A while," O'Brien replied. He glanced around. "We've received a transmission while you were unconscious though."

Julian's eyes lit up in hope. "They made it?" he asked. O'Brien nodded, allowing a smile to cross his face. "Is Dax okay?" Julian glanced sheepishly at the older man.

O'Brien nodded. "She's fine. Busy working on getting the systems up and running, from my understanding." O'Brien leaned forward. "What happened?"

Julian took a deep breath, wondering how to explain this. "You aren't going to believe this," he said softly. He glanced at his friend. "I saw Sisko."

O'Brien raised an eyebrow. "You what? Was this some sort of dream?"

Julian shook his head. "No, most definitely not a dream. More like...a prophecy fulfilled."

O'Brien glanced skeptically at him. "I think you're beginning to crack under the stress, my friend."

Julian glared at him. "I'm serious," he hissed. "Somehow, when he died, he was displaced...or at least that's how he explained it. He also told me a few things about what's been happening....and what will happen."

"What are you talking about?" O'Brien looked thoroughly confused.

Julian sat up slightly. He glanced over at Voorhies. "Just that everyone isn't who they seem to be," he said quietly. He glanced back at O'Brien, who was staring at him in shock. "Are you saying that Voorhies is a founder?" he hissed softly.

Julian shook his head. "No. A Vorta."

"WHAT?!" Julian glared at O'Brien, shooting a glance at Voorhies, who had turned to face them. O'Brien glanced at Julian, who took a deep breath. "Keep your voice down, please," he murmured.

"Aren't you going to confront him?" O'Brien hissed.

"Yes, as soon as I can stand. And with a security detail." Julian leaned back, looking spent.

"You don't have to." Both men glanced up startled. Voorhies was standing there. O'Brien immediately fell on the defensive, reaching for the phaser at his hip. "And you don't have to do that, either," Voorhies said, gesturing towards the phaser.

"Like hell I don't," O'Brien snapped, motioning him away from the bed.

"Miles," Julian said, studying Voorhies, "put the phaser away."

"What?" O'Brien stared at him shocked.

Julian turned his gaze to him. "Vorta are telepathic. The reason I couldn't read him earlier was because he had some sort of chemical injected..." Julian's gaze flickered to Voorhies. "He injected the neutralizer. I can read him now."

"So?" Miles huffed, glaring at Voorhies.

"He wants to defect," Julian said. An amused glint entered his eyes. Voorhies laughed. "I really wish you would stop doing that!" Miles glanced back and forth.

Julian glanced at O'Brien apologetically. "I'm sorry Miles. He shifted slightly. "Look at it this way. He could have let me die just now. From what I understand, it was a shot in hell that brought me back."

O'Brien paused, remembering. "Yes, well. You can't honestly believe that he'd want to defect."

<Chief, believe me. He does. Otherwise he wouldn't have injected the neutralizer so I could hear his thoughts.>

O'Brien stared at his young friend. He hated it when he was right. "Fine. But why?" he asked, glaring at Voorhies.

Voorhies took a deep breath. "I suppose you could say I've spent far too much time among the Federation."

*******

Dax glanced up from her console as Data and Odo walked in. "Report," Data said.

"We have sensors, communication, and environmental controls working at about 70%. Weapons and shields are at about 50%. We don't have any torpedoes however." She glanced at Data. "We sent an encoded communique to the Defiant piggybacked on a sensor sweep. They're in position and ready for the final stage."

"Good," Data grinned. "Then get ready. They'll start the attack in about a half hour."

*******

Julian glanced up as the cloak was engaged again. "Phase two," he said softly. He glanced at Voorhies. He picked up the emergency field kit. "You ready?"

Voorhies nodded. "I still don't understand why medics are needed on the ground front," he said.

Julian glanced up. "Medics are needed everywhere during a war," he said. He shouldered the kit. "Good luck doctor," he said.

"You too, doctor." Julian nodded and headed towards the transporter. He met up with the ground forces.

"This is Commander Thoren speaking. All teams report to the transporter room."

Julian took a deep breath and stepped onto the transporter. The plan was to uncloak while in orbit of Bajor and beam down ground troops to aid in the fight that was doing on down there. He was surrounded by a team of six other soldiers and they saw the lighting become normal just as the transporter took effect.

Chapter Five

Julian grunted as the phaser fire whirred nearby. He tended to the wounded Bajoran quickly. He felt a prickling of energy fill his mind as he was suddenly aware of a vaguely familiar mind. He finished his work and glanced up, scanning the area around the natural cave he had found. The fighting had moved elsewhere and now the wounded were being brought in. He stood up as he spotted a familiar figure being brought in. "Over here!" he called, motioning to the two men who carried the person. They lay the fiery haired Bajoran next to the young man Julian had just finished treating. Julian knelt back down. "It's good to see you in one piece Kira," he said softly.

Kira groaned and moved her hand away from the phaser burn on her leg. "You too, doctor." Julian smiled and started treating the wound. "How...did everyone make it?"

Julian paused. "In one way or another," he replied.

"What the hell do you..OW!..mean by that?" she demanded.

"Sorry," Julian murmured. His hands moved quickly from the medkit to her wounded leg. "And I mean that everyone is alive...although..."

"Although?" Kira demanded.

"Technically, Captain Sisko didn't survive the battle." He saw Kira's eyes widen in shock. "But," he continued, searching for words, "he exists..outside linear time."

Kira stared at him in shock. "Wha..what did you say? How do you know?"

"I spoke with him," he said quietly. Kira stared at him, trying to digest this. Julian glanced up as someone called to him. "Major..."

"Go," she said. Julian scrambled over to where someone had called him.

"There's a wounded human out there, only we can't get to him." The Bajoran man took a deep breath. "The fighting is moving in that direction. We aren't going to be able to get to him in time."

Julian felt the blood drain from his face. <"Jake needs your help," Sisko said. "You've got to save his life. You're the only one who can. Consider it a last request from a friend."> "Where?" Julian demanded.

"To the west, at the canyon."

Julian nodded. "I'll be right back. Stay here and treat those that come in as best you can." He darted off, praying he'd make it in time.

*******

Jake Sisko glanced down at his useless left leg, wincing in pain as he attempted to drag himself up the ledge. He had lost his balance and had nearly fallen to his death in a canyon. Instead, he simply broke his leg in the fall by landing on a ledge. He glanced up at the sound of phaser fire nearing the area. "Well," he muttered to himself. "You wanted to report the war."

He started moving again and was nearing a part of the ledge when he heard a voice ring out that sounded vaguely familiar. And then a familiar face poked over the ledge of the canyon. "Dr. Bashir?" he gasped.

"Good to see you too Jake," he said, glancing around. "Broken leg?" Jake nodded, glancing at his mangled leg. "Don't move." He saw Bashir momentarily disappear. Then he saw two legs swing over the ledge and Bashir dropped down next to him. Jake stared in shock. "How'd you do that?" he asked, staring up the twenty feet.

"You learn a few things at the academy," Julian said, kneeling next to Jake. "Now hold still. I might be able to fix this in time so we can get out of here before the fighting moves this way."

Jake watched as Bashir ran the regenerator over his leg. "You're lucky," Bashir murmured. "It was a clean break."

Jake nodded and tested his leg. "Great!" he exclaimed, standing up. "Let's go," he said, starting off along the path.

"JAKE! NO!" Julian lunged forward, catching his arm and yanking him back.

"What?" Jake gasped, staring at him. "What are you doing?"

"If you had taken one more step, you would have fallen to your death," Julian said, his heart hammering in his chest.

Jake paled. "How do you know?"

Julian nodded towards the ledge. "It's weakened. You see the cracking in it?"

Jake stared for a long moment before he spotted what Bashir was talking about. "Oh," was all he could manage. "I guess I should be glad you spotted that."

Julian managed a tight smile, remembering what Jake's father had told him. "I guess so," he said softly. He glanced up. "Let's go," he said, motioning to the rockface. Jake nodded,scrambling for the wall. <Thank you Julian> echoed in his mind. Julian glanced up and nodded. He shouldered his medkit and followed.

*******

Dax watched on the viewscreen as hundreds of ships swarmed around them, Federation and Dominion, completely oblivious to the station, which seemed to be floating harmlessly in space, without power.

"Okay," Data said, rubbing his hands together. Dax couldn't help but start at the very human gesture. "Mr. B'Ler, bring the mains online and raise shields. Dax, fire phasers at the first available target."

"Aye sir," they chorused. The lights in Ops sprang to life and Dax targeted the nearest ship. She watched in delight and amazement as it exploded.

"Good shooting," Data said, mildly amazed. "Hail the Defiant. Tell them to initiate attack pattern delta 13."

"Aye sir," Dax said.

"Mr. B'Ler, continue firing phasers." Data couldn't help but feel odd. He was used to battle on a starship where one could move about. B'Ler nodded, his attention on his work.

*******

Jake sank down on the ground, exhausted. He watched as Bashir moved through the rows of patients, checking and double checking. "Doesn't he ever get tired?" he asked Kira, who was sipping some broth.

"Obviously not," she said, watching as Bashir sprinted over to one corner where a patient was going into seizures. She studied the young Sisko, wondering if he knew about his father. 'Probably not,' Kira decided. 'Julian wouldn't have had time'

Jake shook his head, stretching out slightly. "How's the leg?" he asked.

"It'll be fine," Kira replied, glancing towards the entrance to the cave. "As soon as I can get out there and fight."

******* "Evasive maneuvers!" Thoren shouted, the bridge of the Defiant smoking.The Defiant rocked hard to port and then hard to starboard, all the while firing phasers. Two more Jem'Hadar ships exploded. Thoren allowed a brief grin. "Come about to 213 mark 82."

The ship swung about in a tight turn, raking blows across the nearest ship. Two more defiant class ships followed. Between the three of them, the ship lost power and began to float listlessly.

"Alright," Thoren grinned. "Implement plan V."

The officer at the helm grinned and tapped a control on her panel. "Enemy ships shields disabled sir," she said.

Chapter Six

"HOW is it we didn't know about this?!" the founder shouted at Weyoun.

"I don't know," he returned. "Voorhies never reported in about it. It's possible he didn't know." The deck shifted under them.

"I want these Federation ships destroyed," she snapped back. "And I want to know what happened on that station!"

"Sir!" a Jem'Hadar shouted. "We've just lost shields!"

"What?!" Weyoun shouted. "How is that possible?"

"I don't know," the Jem'Hadar shouted back over the suddenly violent explosions ringing out across the bridge. "They just dropped as if we had lowered them!"

Weyoun's eyes widened as screeching alarms ran out across the bridge. "Voorhies," he hissed as a low rumble made it's way through the ship. The bastard had betrayed him. If he survived this, he'd make Voorhies' life hell.

*******

Thoren grinned in delight as the lead ship exploded in a brilliant flash. "Excellent shooting!"

He watched as the other ships in the fleet started after the remaining Jem'Hadar ships. DS9 had also opened fire on any available target, striking out against the Dominion forces.

Thoren turned to Voorhies, who had appeared on the bridge. "Your information has proved invaluable," he said.

"It was the least I could do," he said, eyeing the destruction taking place with an appreciative eye.

"Sir! The remaining Jem'Hadar forces are withdrawing!" Thoren turned to the viewscreen and grinned broadly as the crew on the bridge whooped in delight.

*******

Julian glanced up in shock as several Bajorans ran through the mouth of the cave, cheering. "We've just received word that the Dominion forces have pulled out! We've done it!"

The cave erupted into cheers and tears of delight. Julian grinned broadly and turned to Kira. She was grinning from ear to ear. She caught his eye and nodded. Julian felt someone grab his hand and whirled to find Jabara standing there, grinning. "Doctor," she smiled, shouldering her phaser.

Julian grinned. "Jabara!" The woman crushed him in a hug. Julian smiled and returned it.

"Glad to see you made it," she said.

"You too," Julian replied. He glanced around the cave in amazement. "Was it like this when the Cardassians left?" Bajorans and humans alike were shouting, crying, singing and dancing.

"Worse," she smiled. She nodded towards the area of the cave where the more severely injured people were. "You need a hand?"

"I thought you'd never ask," he grinned.

*******

Jadzia glanced around the bridge of the Defiant. They had returned to Bajor to lend assistance with the recovery. She glanced up at Thoren. "Permission to beam down with the away team sir," she said.

Thoren glanced at her and nodded. "Granted." Dax nodded and quickly left the bridge. She arrived in the transporter room just as they were about to send the first wave down. She stepped up onto the pad and felt the familiar sensation of the transporter overtake her.

She rematierialized in the mouth of a cave with the rest of the medics. She glanced around as she followed them in. All around her, Bajorans were talking and laughing, and further back, some rested, recovering from injuries. And in the midst of it all, Julian stood, directing the newest arrivals. Dax's eyes widened in happiness and she started over when she heard a familiar voice call her. She spun and saw Kira and Jake sitting in one corner. Dax grinned and darted over.

"You're okay!" she cried, hugging them both.

"Just fine," Kira replied, smiling. "Glad to see you made it also."

"Just fine," Dax echoed. She turned to Jake and smiled. "Glad to see you didn't get into too much trouble with your reporting," she said, mussing his hair.

"Nothing I couldn't get out of," he grinned.

"Jadzia!" She whirled at the sound of his voice and got to her feet as he reached her side. Dax threw her arms around him and was overwhelmed as he projected relief and joy at her. Dax smiled. "I'm glad you're okay, too," she whispered, kissing him. Julian closed his eyes, pulling her close.

Kira and Jake exchanged a look of mild disbelief. Julian pulled back as he heard his name being called. Jadzia smiled as he offered her a sheepish grin and darted off.

"This is new," Kira commented idly. Dax turned to face her and opened her mouth to say something but simply grinned instead.

Chapter Seven

After all the celebration, Julian stood in sickbay with Jake Sisko and Jadzia Dax. Dax had her arm around the young man's shaking shoulders, looking close to tears herself. "I'm sorry Jake," Dax whispered. She gently squeezed his shoulders and glanced up at Julian with tearful eyes. Julian felt his heart twist and he knelt down in front of them both. "I went over the medical reports. He didn't suffer a bit." Dax offered him a watery smile. Julian gently brushed a hand over hers, taking it as he turned to Jake. "And, in a sense, he's not dead."

Jadzia studied Julian momentarily. She had never pegged him as the religious type. She began to wonder what he was talking about. It had gotten Jake's attention also as he glanced up and regarded Bashir with a confused look. "What do you mean?" he asked. "How can he not be dead? You have his body, don't you?"

Julian paused, trying to collect his thoughts, to figure out how to explain this without sounding completely insane. "Do you remember what happened on the ledge?"

Jake nodded. "You spotted the cracks in the path and realized it wouldn't support our weight."

Julian shook his head. "No. Your father told me about what would happen." Dax's head snapped up. Julian explained what had happened to him and what Captain Sisko told him about Voorhies and Jake. When he finished, both Jake and Dax were regarding him with wide eyes.

"You're saying he...he's with the prophets?" Jake asked, not sure what to think.

Julian paused. "Yes and no. He's not in the wormhole, if that's what you're thinking but..." Jake nodded, a ghost of a smile crossing his face. "Dad never knew what to make of the Bajoran prophecies," he reflected. Dax gave his shoulder a squeeze and glanced at Julian. Jake glanced at his feet. "We'll arrange for transport for you back to Earth," Dax said softly.

Jake shook his head. "No. I want to stay. You said they're going to build a new station."

Dax and Julian exchanged a look. "Well," Dax said softly, "I don't see why not. But it will be a while. You'll probably want to go back earth and spend some time with your grandfather. He'll need your help, adjusting to Ben's death..." Jake nodded, suddenly remembering. Dax pat his back.

"We've secured everyone's belongings from the old station on decks 3 and 4. Your stuff is all there, whenever you want to pick it up. In the meantime, go get some sleep."

Jake took a deep breath and nodded. "Alright." He glanced at Bashir. "Thank you, doctor."

Julian shook his head. "It was the least I could do," he said softly. Jake nodded and walked out. Julian took a deep breath and turned to face Dax. "I've had to tell dozens of people that their loved ones were killed in the last three days but that was the hardest of them all."

Dax nodded as he slid onto the chair next to her and she slid close. Julian wrapped his arms protectively around her. "You realize how much I hated being away from you?" he asked softly. "I couldn't hear you, or feel you at all. I had no idea until I saw you in the cave that you had made it out alive."

Dax nodded, curling close. "I know." She glanced up at him. "Did you really see Benjamin?" she asked softly. Julian nodded, allowing a tiny smile to cross his face. "What?" she asked, sitting up.

"Nothing," he said, fighting back his smile. "It's just there were a few things he mentioned about you too."

Dax regarded him with a wary glance. "What?" she asked. Oh no. Not that...

Julian widened his eyes innocently. "Nothing, I swear it." Dax frowned slightly and shrugged. She leaned forward and kissed him firmly. After several moments, Dax pulled back.

Julian grinned. "Lets just say," he murmured, "that if I had known you had a thing for surgeons, Dax, I would have made a move much earlier." Dax pulled back, her eyes wide. Julian simply smiled.

Chapter Eight

SIX MONTHS LATER

Winn stared at the orb. "You're sure this will do it?" She looked to a young Vedek, who nodded.

"Yes, Kai. This orb...if we activate it at the location of the doctor, should be able to send him into temporal flux....then we may be able to retrieve the Emissary."

Another Vedek spoke up. "We will have to make sure the doctor is able to contact the Emissary before we even attempt it. It would be pointless do try otherwise."

Winn looked between the two. "How do you propose we do that?"

The two vedek's exchanged a look.

*******

Dax stood at the helm controls of the Defiant, smiling. It had been 6 months since the last station had been destroyed, but Star Fleet and Bajor had endevored to rebuild the fallen station, and now, 6 months later, here it was.

Back and better than ever.

Bashir sensed her good mood, and smiled. He stepped up to the side of the helm and gently rested a hand on her shoulder as the new station swung into view. Dax felt her breath catch in her throat in amazement. It was huge. A long cylindrical center made up the body of most of the station, flaring out slightly just below the top central area where the crew quarters and most of the guest quarters were. At the very top was a central tower, which was where Ops was located. Circling the main body of the station was a docking ring, similar to the one on the old station, with long spires pointing downwards and smaller ones above, which served as weapons pylons.

"Amazing," Kira breathed, smiling.

O'Brien stood, smiling. "I've never seen a sweeter sight."

Data glanced around at the crew, his crew, and smiled. "Commander, take us into docking port one. Welcome home."

"Aye sir," Dax smiled, tapping in the proper commands.

********

Julian walked out into the infirmary and gazed around. Gleaming panels winked back at him, bright displays, state of the art equipment. He felt a smile begin to creep over his features.

"Does it meet your requirements doctor?" Kira smiled, leaning against the door.

Julian turned and smiled. "I don't know. I kind of grew attached to the old beat up infirmary." Kira laughed. "What can I do for you Major?"

"There's a meeting of all command staff in Ops."

Julian nodded and started out. "Why didn't he use the comm system?"

"It's down. There are still a few bugs that need to be worked out." They stepped into a turbolift. "Ops," Kira commanded. A few moments later, the stepped into Operations. Julian gazed around. Dax was sitting at one of the consoles and Data was standing next to another one, glancing down at O'Brien, who was half inside the workings. Odo stood to one side, examining the dedication plaque. Julian grinned. "Glad to see a few things haven't changed," he quipped, nudging O'Brien with his boot as he walked by.

"Haha," O'Brien muttered. He heard Dax stifling her laughter and pulled himself out to frown at her.

"Well," Data began as Julian walked over to Dax. "Now that we're all here, let's get started. As is obvious, the internal communications system is down and we'll probably find other glitches in the system as the station is brand new. Therefore, in order to find them as expediently as possible, I want each of you to run diagnostics on all of the equipment at your respective posts." He saw O'Brien wince. "An engineering contingency is arriving tomorrow Chief, so concentrate on Ops for now."

"And make sure the replicators work," Julian ribbed. Dax and Kira started laughing and O'Brien simply shook a fist at Bashir, teasingly.

"Also, we're running on a skeleton crew right now but that will change soon, as will the populace. There are six transports arriving in two days to bring back the inhabitants of the old station. Business will be starting to set up shop then. Therefore, we need to get most of the bugs worked out in forty eight hours." Everyone nodded. "Now, the other main topic is quarters assignment." Data pulled up a schematic of the quarters, which rimmed the Rotunda and glanced at O'Brien. "You'll need a family quarters, I'm assuming." O'Brien nodded and quickly picked out a room.

Julian felt a gentle hand rest on his and he glanced down at Jadzia. "What Jadzia?"

She raised an eyebrow. "We never discussed this while on leave," she said softly. They had gone back to Earth for part of the six months and then to Risa for a few weeks towards the end. It had been a relaxing and enjoyable time and they had gotten to spend some time alone.

Julian raised an eyebrow. "I assumed we'd get separate quarters," he said softly as Kira mulled over her choices.

"Separate...why?" Dax frowned at him.

Julian smiled, mildly confused. "Why not? We get them next to each other and at the same time each have some private space."

"Why would you need private space?" Dax demanded. "We've been sharing quarters' for the last six months."

"Doctor?" Julian and Jadzia both turned to see Data gazing at Bashir expectantly. "Your quarters?"

Julian glanced from Data to Jadzia and back. "Can you come back to me?"

Data paused and nodded, glancing at Dax. "I assume the same for you then?" Dax nodded and turned back to Julian.

"Jadzia, I don't understand the problem with having separate quarters." Julian frowned. "The way it's set up, they're connected by a balcony anyhow."

"It's the principle of the thing," Dax frowned.

"What?" he asked. "I don't see the problem."

"WHY don't you want to live together?" she asked, her voice rising fractionally. Kira sent an odd look their way.

"Jadzia, I never said I didn't."

"Then it shouldn't be a problem to get joint quarters," she said, crossing her arms.

Julian sighed and rolled his eyes up. "Good lord you're blowing this out of proportion."

"I'm *what*?!" Dax's eyes flashed at him. "All I asked is why you didn't want to live together."

"Is there a problem?" Data asked, glancing from one to the other.

"No!" the both snapped. Data raised an eyebrow, trying not to look amused.

"Perhaps the problem is that you simply don't take this relationship seriously," Dax scowled.

"That's ridiculous! Of course I take this seriously. I just don't see why we have to live together." O'Brien glanced at Kira who glanced at Odo. From their standpoint, this was all rather amusing. Both parties were glaring at each other, each unwilling to bend. Data hesitated during the silence before asking. "I don't suppose we've reached a decision yet..."

"No," Dax snapped, still glaring at Julian while he replied, "Yes." Data raised both eyebrows. "I thought as much," he deadpanned. Both officers turned to stare at him in suprise and then glanced back at each other. Julian was the first to break the silence by laughing. Dax attempted to continue glaring at him but began laughing also. Julian glanced at Data. "I'm sorry, commander. It appears we have a few things to discuss. Can we get back to you?"

Data nodded and glanced around. "Well, as everyone else is settled, let's get to work. I want reports on the systems by 0800 tomorrow morning." Everyone nodded and went to their separate destination. Julian paused long enough to glance at Jadzia. "Stop down in the Infirmary when you get a chance."

Dax nodded and turned to her console and began working. Julian stepped away and headed towards the turbolift.

*******

Dax poked her head in the infirmary three hours later. "Julian?"

"In here," he called. Dax walked into a spacious lab and smiled at Julian, who was streched out under a console. "Problems?" she teased, crouching down next to him.

"No...just a misalignment in one of the diagnostic tools." He glanced at her and smiled. "How about you?"

"Nothing I couldn't handle. I'm sure other problems will crop up later but I'm not too worried about it. I've offered to give the Chief a hand though."

Julian nodded and pulled himself out from underneath the equipment. "So..." he said, leaning back against the paneling.

Dax sighed and sank down next to him. "Why don't you want to live together?"

Julian gently took her hand. "I never said I didn't. I thought that you would have rather taken things more slowly." He hesitated. <Because of this.>

Dax raised an eyebrow and decided to take his words at face value. "Why? We've been together for over six months."

<That was just vacation time. It will be different now. As things stand, all I have to do is touch you and I can sense your thoughts even through shielding.>

Dax gazed at him. "You can?"

He nodded, smiling slightly at her suprise. "Let's just say I've gotten used to the feel of your mind, however odd it is."

Dax swatted him, laughing. "Well, I appreciate your concern but I think I know what I've gotten myself into."

Julian smiled and gave her hand a squeeze. "Alright. Should we go see Commander Data?"

"He's probably wondering what the hell is going on," she grinned. Julian pulled her close and kissed her. Dax relaxed against him, reveling in the contentment and happiness, wondering if he really could sense it.

<I can> he sent, gently nuzzling her. He pulled back and stood, extending a hand to her. <C'mon. Let's go get this taken care of so we have a place to sleep.>

<Yes, sir> she teased.

*******

Data glanced up as the door to his office opened and Commander Dax and Dr. Bashir walked in. "I take it things are settled?" he asked, trying not to look too amused.

Dax smiled and nodded. "Yes."

"Joint quarters?" Data asked. Dax and Bashir exchanced looks. Julian nodded, feeling his cheeks heat up. Data smiled in amusement and handed them a padd. "There are other rooms but this is one of the nicer ones. Plus, it's the one that's closest to both the infirmary, science lab and Ops." Dax sent an amused glance at Data and glanced at the location. "I figured that would be the most logical choice." Data glanced at Bashir, who was shaking his head, trying not to laugh.

"Chief O'Brien is already transfering your belongings there."

"You were *that* confident she'd win?" Julian said, fighting his laughter.

"I wasn't. But Mr. O'Brien was."

Dax grinned and heard Julian snort in amusement. "Thank you commander," she said, smiling.

"Of course," Data replied. He glanced at Bashir. "Doctor, I'm hoping that there were few problems with the infirmary. Kai Winn just informed me she will be ariving tomorrow. I wouldn't particularly care for having a diplomatic envoy here with an infirmary with bugs in the programming."

"Everything's fine," Julian said, snapping to attention a bit. "There were a few glitches in some of the equipment but it's been fixed."

"Good." Data looked genuinely pleased.

Dax glanced at the chronometer. "Sir, if that's all, I'm supposed to meet Chief O'Brien in the science lab."

"Go ahead. Just so you know, the envoy arrives tomorrow at 0800."

"Aye sir," they both replied and turned to leave.

Chapter Nine

Julian walked into the quarters he and Jadzia had been assigned and smiled. There was a spacious living room with a dinning area in one corner. Bookshelves lined the wall one one side and two doors were apparent. One was to the bedroom and the other would exit out onto the balcony that overlooked the arbouretum, which was being run by O'Brien's wife. Julian walked over to the door and stepped out onto the balcony. He rested his hands on the railing and looked out. The senior staff all had gotten quarters along the ring surrounding the arbouretum. The other quarters were mostly for ambassadors and other honored guests.

"I see you signed up for joint quarters after all." Julian turned to see O'Brien walking along the balcony.

Julian grinned. "I see you had the nerve to assume as much and transfer our belongings to the room."

"Welcome to the monogamous life my friend. Rule one, women always win the arguements." O'Brien turned and looked out. "Keiko's going to love this," he said, smiling.

"I'll bet," Julian said. He glanced around. "I have to admit, whoever designed this station did a fantastic job."

O'Brien nodded. "That they did."

"Julian?" Both men turned to see Jadzia walk out. She smiled. "This is beautiful," she said. "Keiko's going to have a field day, isn't she?" O'Brien nodded and laughed. "When does she arrive?"

"In two days, along with Jake." O'Brien bumped himself off the railing. "I should go get our quarters in order though. Otherwise she'll be having a field day with me also."

Julian laughed. "I'll see you later Chief," he said, smiling. O'Brien nodded and headed off to his quarters.

"Speaking of which," Dax smiled, wrapping her arms around his waist, "we should do the same."

Julian smiled. "Right. I think I noticed that the bed needed some breaking in."

Dax laughed and pulled back. "Come on," she said, heading towards the door. "That can wait till later." Julian laughed and followed her in.

Three hours later, after several verbal and mental disputes, they had settled on an arrangement that satisfied them both. Dax was packing some of their belongings up when Julian snuck up behind her. "Are we finished yet?" he teased.

Dax jumped and grinned. "You certainly are singleminded, aren't you?"

Julian grinned back. "So? You never complained before." Dax grinned and shook her head. "Come on, doctor," she teased. He smiled and kissed her.

*******

When the Kai arrived on DS9, she formally requested that Dr. Bashir be sent to meet her. Bashir was curious about this request, and agreed to the meeting.

One day, he might wish he hadn't...

Chapter Ten

"Doctor...Julian. How long has it been since you spoke with the Emissary?" Winn sounded concerned. Whether it was for Sisko's safety, or her own morbid curiosity Bashir had no idea.

"6 months. Obviously there's nothing left for him to tell me. Either that or he's not displaced anymore.."

"Have you had any visions, doctor?" She sounded odd. He wondered what was going on, and tried to read her, discovering that he couldn't.

"Yes. One on Risa. It didn't mean anything, however. It was just a sensory jumble."

"Are you sure?" She smiled, knowing she had him. "You could use an orb...The Orb of Prophecy to find out...couldn't you." She sounded as if she'd be hurt if he refused.

*******

A flash of bright white light.

The sensation of falling.

Bashir blinked his eyes rapidly. There was a vague essence surrounding him. Familiar, but not quite. Then darkness.

*******

"Julian?" he heard someone mutter. Winn. "Doctor? Can you hear me?"

His body felt water heavy, and it was hard to speak. "Yes..."

"Are you in contact with The Emissary?"

"Yes....." What was wrong with him? Why couldn't he move? His head felt swimmy, like he was floating on water.

"Is he saying anything to you?"

"No.....yes. Telling me to get out....this is dangerous..." His voice took a deeper tone. "Winn...pull him out...you don't know what you're doing....."

Winn smiled. "Emissary..."

Bashir went limp as the vedek closed the orb.

"What are you doing?!" Winn demanded.

Varen gave her a wary look. "His biolevels were destabilising. If we hadn't pulled him out, he may have died. We'll have to do this another way."

*******

Dax stormed into the Infirmary and found a very groggy Julian sitting on one of the biobeds. "What happened?"

"I don't know. Winn had brought one of the orbs to the station. She was interested in seeing if the visions I'd been having meant anything more than what has already happened." Julian glanced at her. "Am I making sense?"

"Enough," Dax said, gently taking his hand. "Where's Winn now?"

"Right here, my child." Winn stepped out from the lab with the Vedek she had been talking with.

"Don't 'my child' me," Dax snapped. "What did you think you were doing?"

"Trying to bring back the Emmissary," she replied, for the first time showing anxiety.

Dax raised an eyebrow. "Captain Sisko is dead," she said, her voice growing soft. "I'm sorry but there's simply nothing you can do about that."

"That's not true," Winn said simply. She turned to Bashir. "It's my understanding that the Emissary's essence, his pagh, is simply . . . displaced' is how I believe you put it at our last meeting." Julian nodded. "We have discovered that there is a way to bring his pagh back from that displacement."

Julian sighed. "Kai, even if Captain Sisko's consciousness still exists, his body is long dead." He saw an odd look cross her face. "What did you do?"

Winn looked ready to hedge the question but sighed and gave in. "We were able to clone..."

"WHAT?!" Both Dax and Bashir stared at her in shock and outrage. Dax started to advance on her. "How _*dare*_ you!" she exclaimed. "That completely unethical. Did you even consult with his son?"

Winn took a deep breath. "I do appologize for our overzealousness but, well, I was faced with the possibility of bringing the Emissary back to Bajor. I felt I should explore all the possible paths."

"Which included using me in order to find him," Julian grumbled. He pushed himself off the bed. <I'm sick of being used as a test subject> he muttered to Jadzia. She sent him a sympathetic look and turned back to Winn. "I think you should stop all experiments in this direction now."

Winn paused and then smiled slightly. "You may be right. But shouldn't we at least inform the Emissary's son that there's a possibility to bring him back?"

Julian's eyes went wide and he glanced at Jadzia. <She's not doing what I think she's doing> he sent. <Is she?>

<You'd better believe it. She's using our own argument against us.> Dax nodded slowly. "Alright. Jake will arrive tomorrow. However, I don't want you attacking him immediately. Let him get settled in first."

Winn nodded. "That is agreeable."

*******

"Begin Station Log. The civillian populous has slowly begun to trickle back to the station. Jake Sisko, the son of the my predescesor was among the first group to arrive. He was joined by Quark, his brother Rom and Morn. One can only hope this station lives up to the former's reputation."

*******

Jake wandered through the station, exploring his new surroundings. He kept running into people who wanted to know if he was allright about his father's "death." He supressed the urge to tell them he'd be even better if people stopped asking him that.

"Jake!" He spun to see Jadzia Dax striding towards him, smiling. He grinned and hugged her once she reached his side. "I'm sorry I couldn't meet you at the airlock. Things have been incredibly busy with trying to get things in order and up and running." She paused for a breath. "Have you gotten settled in?" she asked.

Jake nodded. "Yeah. I sort of dumped my things in my quarters and went to explore." They were momentarilly interrupted as an officer came up to offer Jake his condolences. Jake smiled tightly and sighed as the man left. "I wish people would stop doing that. Having Grandpa hovering over me on Earth was bad enough."

Dax smiled and slid an arm around his shoulders. "They're concerned," she said. "It'll calm down in no time."

"I hope so," Jake said, scrubbing at the back of his neck in a gesture so remeniscent of his father Dax started. "So what did you need to talk to me about?"

"Actually, we should go to the infirmary so Julian can explain also." Dax took his arm and started guiding him in the right direction. "Have you had much of a chance to explore?" she asked as they walked.

"A bit. This place is huge though." Jake glanced around the corridors as they stepped out onto the third floor of the Rotunda. Jake stared around in amazement. There were several shop owners setting up business. Across the way he spotted the new "Quark's" and several other familiar shops. He grinned and walked up to the railing and glanced down into the arboretum where he could barely spot Keiko O'Brien directing someone with a mover loaded with a tree. He turned back to see Dax smiling at him slightly. "This is definetly different than when we first arrived on the old DS9," he grinned. Dax smiled and motioned. They headed off and stepped into the infirmary. Julian had examined the schematics of the station when they first received them and had noted, with extreme delight, that the infirmary was centrally located in the habitat area.

Dax and Jake stepped in and Dax couldn't help but smile as she spotted Julian concentrating intently on the screen. <At least some things never change> she thought loudly. Julian glanced up and grinned. "Hello," he said, tapping a control on the computer and spinning the seat around. "Jake, how are you doing?"

"Just fine, Dr. Bashir," Jake replied. "Although I'm a bit confused as to what is all going on."

Julian nodded, his smile faltering slightly. He glanced at Jadzia and motioned for them both to sit. "Jake, we've received a visit from Winn. She had some news for us about your father."

Jake nodded. "I know. She left a message for me saying she wanted to talk to me as soon as possible about dad. Why? What's happened?"

Julian sighed and glanced at Jadzia. "Jake," she said softly, taking over, "Winn believes that she's found a way to bring your father back." She saw his eyes widen in sheer shock. "But," she said softly, "there's a few things you should know first."

"You're telling my we can bring Dad back?" he said, staring from her to Bashir.

"Jake," Julian cut in, "there is a *huge* risk involved with this. There's a chance it won't even work and, if it doesn't, your father will ceace to exist in non-linear time."

Dax glanced at Julian before continuing. "However, there's one more thing you should know." He turned a wide-eyed gaze to her. She took a deep breath. "Jake, somehow, the Bajorans have managed to clone your father."

"They what?" he gaped. Dax rested a hand on his shoulder. "How could they?" he asked.

"I don't know how they obtained the DNA," Julian admitted. "But I've been going over their procedures all day. So far, I haven't detected any major flaws."

Jake stared at him in shock. "Can they bring my father back?"

"I don't know," Julian admitted. "Winn won't give me the details yet. She said she wants you to decide with your spirit, not with your head." Julian tried his best to remain dispassionate but his skepticism showed through.

Jake glanced off to a corner in the infirmary. Jadzia gently rested her hand on his arm. "Jake, you realize that there are huge risks involved in this." She glanced at Julian. "Dr. Bashir nearly died because of Winn's zealousness. She didn't take the proper precautions."

Jake glanced from her to Bashir. "I'd still like to hear what she has to say. If there's a chance I can bring my dad back, I want to take it."

Chapter Eleven

Winn gazed at the young Sisko. "Your pagh is strong," she commented. "Very much like the Emissary's."

Jake bit his lip. "Kai Winn, you said you might be able to bring my dad back..."

"It is possible," Winn said. She glanced at Bashir. "Although not in the way we had initially hoped." Julian shifted and tried to keep his features neutral.

"I know. Dr. Bashir explained everything to me." Jake frowned. "But you still think it's possible."

Winn nodded. "Anything is possible if it is the prophet's will, my child."

"What makes you think that the prophets will this?" Julian broke in.

"There is a prophecy," Winn began. Julian just barely refrained from rolling his eyes. "It states "When he is gone, there shall come another, and he shall be one with himself..."." Winn glanced down. "Our scholars have never known how to interpret this...until we received your news about the Emissary's fate."

Julian scrubbed a hand across his face. He glanced at Jake who seemed to be mulling over this. "Jake," he said softly. "you can't honestly think..."

"How, Kai Winn?" Jake asked. "How do you propose we bring my father back."

"Jake!" Dax gasped. She had been sitting silently next to him, not trusting herself to say a word.

"I want to get all the possible information," Jake explained. He turned back to Winn.

"We would be able to use the orb to contact the Emissary. But," she glanced at Bashir. "We would require Dr. Bashir's assistance." Julian frowned but remained silent. "We propose that a mind meld could be used instead."

Julian's eyebrows flew up. "What?"

"If you could make contact with the Emissary, you could act as a intermediate between his pagh and the body."

Julian's jaw dropped. "Kai Winn, you're asking me to perform something even a master of Gol finds not only highly difficult but also highly dangerous."

"I reviewed the Vulcan mind technician's report on you while you were on Vulcan. You have the highest esp rating they've seen in over a hundred years. That includes the master who performed the Fal Tor Pan on your Ambassador Spock."

Julian shifted uncomfortably. "I see you've been doing research," he murmured.

"I am in charge of Bajor's spiritual well-being. The Emissary is vital to that well-being." Winn gazed at him.

Jake glanced from him to Winn. "I don't want to put anyone at risk but I'd like to try this," he said. "But what's dangerous for Dr. Bashir or the ... clone would also most likely be dangerous to my father...."

"The prophets would protect him," Winn replied confidently.

"'Then the devil took him to the holy city, and made him stand on the parapet of the temple, and said to him, "If you are the Son of God, throw yourself down. For it is writen:'He will command his angels concerning you' and 'with their hands they will support you, lest you dash your foot against a stone.'" Jesus answered him, "Again it is written 'You shall not put the Lord, your God, to the test,'"" Julian retorted under his breath. Dax sent him an odd look.

Winn regarded him with a mixture of suprise and amazement. "I never thought you were the religious type," she said.

"It seemed fitting," he said softly.

******

Dax sat on the couch in their quarters, watching him pace. "Julian, are you sure you want to go through with this?"

Julian sighed. "I don't know," he said. "I don't know what to think about this whole thing." He sank down next to her. "But Jake wants to try...and I can't think of a reason not to that can't be shot down by simply analyzing things."

"What do you mean?"

"Winn's right. In theory, I should be able to do this." He ran his hands through his hair. "Statistically, the chances of something going wrong are lower than it would be for anyone else."

"You're not a statistic," she said, sliding close. "Don't analyze this into bits, Julian. Go with your gut instinct. Do you want to do this?"

Julian took a deep breath. "In a way, yes." He glanced at her. "But that doesn't make it any easier."

Dax smiled slightly and gently kissed him. "I know," she whispered. "I don't think anything would." Julian smiled slightly and kissed her back, pulling her close. "Come on," she said softly. "You need your rest for tomorrow."

*******

Bashir lay on the biobed, in a sedated haze. He had initiated the meld with the clone earlier, although there was nothing to truly meld with as Winn had kept him unconscious the entire time. He could feel his pulse slowly down and his breathing becoming more labored. Winn and Jake were standing near him, while Dax monitored his vitals. Voorhies was administering a sedative.

"He's under...." Voorhies whispered, and a vedek opened the ark that held the Orb. Bashir felt an odd warmth followed by a cold chill as he felt himself drawn into Sisko's mind.....

"Doctor?"

Julian turned and found himself in the same blinding white haze. "Captain," he said softly.

Sisko stepped forward. "Doctor, what are you doing?"

"Sir," Julian said, wondering how the hell to explain things. "We may have found a way to bring you back..."

Sisko regarded him with a mixture of shock and anger. "You listened to Winn," he said, his tone accusatory.

"No, sir. Jake did." He saw Sisko's eyes widen at that. "Jake was the one who wanted to try this."

Sisko studied him carefully. "What do I have to do?"

Julian shook his head slowly. "Nothing. Just relax." He reached out to find the contact points.

*******

Dax glanced up as she saw Julian's vitals spike slightly. "Something's happening," she said softly, reaching for a tricorder.

Winn turned to face her. "What do you mean something?"

"I don't know," Dax said. "It could be something, it could be nothing."

"Commander," Voorhies cut in. "The neural pathways of the clone are beginning to change."

Jake's eyes widened. "It's working," he said, his voice hushed.

*******

Julian could feel his energy ebbing away. Millions of thoughts ran through his mind, too fast for him to catch. Images, glimpses of people, all moving too quickly for him to identify. Julian opened his eyes and could see Sisko fading slowly as he moved back into linear time. Julian closed his eyes again and continued to concentrate.

*******

"Pathway formation slowing," Voorhies announced, his violet eyes flicking over the tricorder.

"Vitals returning to normal," Dax echoed. She glanced at the Vedek. "Close the ark now," she said. He activated the forcefield again and closed the tabernacle. Dax reached for a hypo and gently pressed it against Julian's neck. He stirred slightly. "Julian? Can you hear me?" she whispered.

Julian's eyes fluttered and opened. "Jadzia," he whispered.

She smiled brilliantly. "How do you feel?"

"Like I could sleep for days," he said softly. "Did it work?"

"Old man?" Dax spun to see Sisko stirring on the bed. "Jake?" Dax's eyes widened. She felt Julian give her hand a gentle squeeze before he fell asleep. "Benjamin?" she asked, moving over.

"Dax," he smiled. Dax clasped his hand, unsure of what to think or say. "It's okay," Sisko smiled. "I think I know the feeling."

Dax grinned and rested a maternal hand on his shoulder. "You should rest too," she said. She glanced at Jake who looked like he wasn't going to move until his father left the infirmary. "I'll let you two be," she said, giving Sisko's shoulder a squeeze. She glanced at Winn and the Vedek and motioned for them into the main room of the infirmary. Dax paused briefly by Julian's bed to kiss him before walking out.

*******

Julian stirred later and glanced to his left. Sisko was still there, sleeping. Julian sat up and raised a hand to his head. The infirmary swam for a moment before his vision cleared again. He got up and walked into his office. Jadzia was sitting at his desk, studying a padd. "Hello," he said softly.

Jadzia glanced up and smiled. "Hello," she said, standing up. She walked over and wrapped her arms around his neck. "How do you feel?"

"Fine," he said, pulling her close. "Tired, but fine."

Dax smiled and kissed him. "I've been reviewing the results," she said softly. "It looks like everything went perfectly."

Julian smiled and rested his forehead against hers. "That's good news," he said, closing his eyes.

Dax smiled. "You look about ready to fall asleep again," she said.

Julian nodded slowly. "I think I'm going to head back to our quarters," he murmured.

Dax nodded in agreement. "Good idea. I'll be home shortly," she said softly.

"Alright," he said. "But I'll probably be sound asleep." Dax smiled and gently brushed a hand over his cheek. "Go," she smiled. "Before you fall asleep right here," she teased as his eyes closed as she brushed at his cheek.

"Yes, ma'am," he smiled. She kissed him quickly and gave him a gentle push out the door. She watched him walk off down the hallway before heading into the room where Benjamin was. She briefly checked the readouts on the biobed.

"Dax?" She jumped and spun to see Jake standing in the doorway. She had practically forced him out of the infirmary to get some sleep earlier. "How's Dad?"

"He's doing fine," Dax said. "He's sleeping now though so why don't we go get dinner."

Jake nodded. Dax paged Voorhies and when he arrived they left. "Where's Dr. Bashir?" Jake asked.

"Sleeping," Dax replied. "He woke up just before you arrived and I sent him home."

"Oh," Jake said. They emerged on the Rotunda and glanced around. "Where to?"

"I think Quark's is open now," Dax smiled. Jake grinned and they started off. "So how is Dr. Bashir?" Jake asked.

"He's fine," Dax replied. "He's just tired." They walked in to find Quark's very quiet.

"Commander." Dax turned to see Quark walking up. "When can I expect *people* to start arriving at the station?"

"Give it time Quark," Dax smiled. "How about two grilled cheese sandwiches?"

Quark glanced at her. "You're kidding, right?"

"No," Dax said. "And a black hole for me."

"Root beer," Jake supplied. Quark shook his head and headed off. Dax motioned to a table and they sat down as Quark appeared with their dinners. "That was fast," Jake commented.

"It's not like I have anyone else to wait on. Enjoy your meals."

Dax and Jake ate in silence for a while. "So," Jake said. "What happens next?"

Dax glanced up. "What do you mean?"

"I mean...will they give dad his post back? Or will we have to go somewhere else?" Jake studied her.

Dax took a deep breath. "I don't know," she admitted. "I guess I never really thought about that. I suppose part of it depends on your dad."

Jake nodded slowly. "I suppose. I think he'd want to stay around here though."

Dax nodded in agreement. "Probably."

"Mind if I join you?" Dax glanced up to see Julian standing there. "What are you doing up?" she asked as he sat down.

"I'm starving," he admitted. He spotted Quark. "Lamb kebobs and hummus," he said as Quark approached. "And a synthale."

"You *are* hungry," Dax said, gently resting a hand on his knee.

Julian nodded. He glanced at Jake and smiled. "I seem to be going to extremes," he admitted.

Dax smiled and raised an eyebrow but said nothing. Julian frowned at her, glancing at Jake. Jake's attention was on his dinner but Julian could have sworn he was laughing silently.

*******

Department of Temporal Investigations:
San Francisco, Earth

Moren stared at his partner, incredulously. He couldn't believe his own partner had just said that.

"Something I said, Tim?" The Vulcan, Solan raised an eyebrow. He'd been cooped up in the office so long, he was starting to, as Lexa put it, "grow a sense of humor".

The Trill chose his words, then practically spit them out. "What you're telling me is that because I'm not a Vulcan, I can't do your damned mind tricks?"

Solan shook his head. "No. I'm saying because you're a Trill you can't do my..."mind tricks"." He said the word almost bitterly. Odd for a Vulcan. "Especially since you're unjoined."

Moren gaped. "Oh you just have to keep shoving that down my throat, don't you?" Moren shook his head. "Can't leave well enough alone?" He rolled his eyes, pointedly. "If I didn't know better, I'd say you were Romulan by birth."

Solan stiffened and his face went carefully neutral. "That is highly illogical since both my parents were Vulcan," he replied coolly.

Dulmur shook his head as the two partners continued to bicker like a couple of children. He had almost taken it upon himself to respond when Genkdelar, the commander, entered.

"Moren. Solan. We've got a phoenix on DS9."

The partners glanced at eachother. A Phoenix meant someone had taken it upon themselves to bend space and time to bring someone back from the dead.

*******

Julian studied the latest readouts from the tests from Sisko. "Are you through Doctor?" Sisko asked, rubbing his arm ruefully.

Julian glanced at him and grinned. "For now."

"You of all people should know what it's like to be inscesantly poked and prodded," Sisko frowned, raising his eyebrows.

Julian glanced up, startled. "Perhaps. But I want to make sure no side effects are going to pop up all of a sudden."

Sisko nodded, regretting bringing up such a sensitive subject. He opened his mouth to apologize but heard <No need.> echo through his mind. Sisko glanced at Bashir, who was intently studying the scanning device where a sample of Sisko's blood was being analyzed. "Since when can you project like that?" he asked.

"A lot of talents have developed over time," Julian said, adjusting a dial. "I really can't say."

"Hmm," Sisko murmured. He glanced up in suprise as Commander Data walked in. "Doctor. Captain. I've just received a call from temporal investigations. Apparently, they got wind of what happened here."

Julian glanced up. "I can't see how they wouldn't," he admitted. "But I also don't see how this will disrupt the timeline." An misgevious grin crossed his handsome features. "We can always let Kai Winn explain her reasons to them." He saw Sisko bite back his own laughter.

Data glanced from one to the other. "I fail to see the humor in the situation," he admitted.

Julian glanced at Sisko. "I suppose you just have to know Winn," he said after a moment.

Data hesitated. "In any case," he said after a moment, "they've sent out two agents to investigate things."

Julian sighed. "Alright, fine. Just as long as they don't get in my way," he said.

Sisko glanced at him, mildly alarmed. "What do you mean? I thought you said you were finished."

"I am," Julian said, smiling. "But you're hardly my only patient."

*******

Dax smiled as Julian walked into their quarters. "Hello," she smiled, kissing him tenderly.

Julian pulled back after a moment. "We're in a good mood," he smiled. He kissed her back. Dax sank close, wrapping her arms around his neck. Julian sighed contentedly as he pulled back. "A very good mood," he grinned.

Jadzia smiled and rested her forehead against his. "Well, you've been working practically day and night," she purred. "I've missed you."

Julian grinned and shook his head. "It's only been two days and you *know* why I've been working."

"I know," she murmured, kissing him again. "But I also know that your side of the bed has been very cold lately."

Julian grinned. "We could fix that," he murmured.

Dax laughed. "Later," she said, pulling back. "Miles and Keiko are coming over for dinner."

"They are?" He shrugged out of his uniform tunic.

"Mm hmm," Dax replied, watching him head into the bedroom. Dax craned her neck and watched him pull out a dark green shirt that brought out the green in his ever changing eyes. She smiled with delight as she watched the play of the muscles of his back as he pulled it on. <Have I ever told you how incredible you look?> she mentally asked, walking in the bedroom.

Julian turned and raised an eyebrow. "What did you do?" he asked, tipping his head slightly to the right.

"Nothing," Dax laughed. She ran her hands up his chest and kissed the hollow of his neck. Julian closed his eyes and sighed in delight. "I told you, I've missed you."

"Then why'd you go and invite the O'Briens for dinner," he said, his voice pitched low as he kissed her. Dax sighed happily. "It's not fair to tease me like this and then tell me I have to be on good behavior tonight," he teased. Dax laughed softly. She kissed him again, working her way to the bed. "Did I forget to mention they're not going to be here until 1900."

"Hmm. Yes you did," he grinned. Dax smiled and kissed him. "Too bad it's 1830 now," she said pulling back. Julian groaned and collapsed onto the bed. Dax laughed softly as she walked into the main room. "You are very, very cruel," he called after her.

Dax laughed and poked her head back in. "Stop over reacting," she grinned.

"Over reacting?" he said, his eyes widening. "Come here and I'll show you over reacting."

Dax giggled and walked into the bedroom. "What? It's not my fault that..eep!" Julian's arms snaked around her waist and tugged her down onto the bed next to him. "Julian!" she protested as he started tickling her.

"Teach you to tease me like that," he grinned, pinning her hands above her head. Dax shrieked with laughter and strugled to get loose. "Say 'uncle,'" he grinned.

"What?" she gasped, trying to twist away. All she ended up doing was exposing her ribcage to him. "Aaa! Uncle!"

Julian grinned and released her. She continued laughing softly. Julian glanced up as he heard the door chime. "I guess they're here," he said. He glanced at her still giggling form and grinned. "Pull yourself together," he teased, sitting up.

"You're going to pay for this later," she said, grinning.

Julian pursed his lips, pausing in the doorway. "I can live with that," he said, winking at her. Dax laughed.

*******

Moren entered the airlock first. He glanced at Solan. "Wouldn't you know it? No one here to greet us." He grinned. "Somebody must not like you, huh?"

Solan shook his head at his partner. "How do you know that for sure. Maybe they don't like you."

Moren rolled his eyes. "Computer, Moren to Operations."

A pause. "This is Major Kira. Can I help you Mr. Moren?"

"You could say that, Major. We're from Temporal Investigations..."

Another brief pause. "You're late."

"What?" Moren cracked a grin. "Didja think that just because we're time cops, we'd always be on time?"

Solan groaned at the bad joke. Moren flashed him a look.

*******

In Dakhur province there are several caves that were once used by the Resistance for storing weapons and other material. Now their mostly used for shelters for grazing animals during storms and during the summer months when it's too hot to keep them in enclosed shelters.

It was in one of these caves that a group of Bajorans were meeting to discuss recent events. Everyone was talking in hushed voices, creating a constant buzz of electricity that circulated around the group.

In front of the group, a man of average height and build stood, observing. After several moments he raised his arms, signaling for quiet. Within a few seconds, the speaking stopped. "My brothers and sisters, you have all heard about the outrage that has taken place on the new 'Federation' spacestation. How Kai Winn violated the will of the prophets and brought the Emissary back from his place with the prophets. What right has she to determine who lives and who dies? What *right* has she to question the will of the prophets? She may be the Kai but she has *no* place in matters such as this. I say," he paused for effect, "it's time we take matters into our own hands. *I* say it's time we *fight back*!" Shouts of agreement filled the cave. The man paused, watching, gauging. "I plan," he continued. The place fell silent. "I plan to *go* to that station and take care of this atrocity! Will anyone join me in aiding my quest?" Shouts of agreement came back to him. "I will need people to remain here, to make the people of Bajor see that this is wrong." He paused. "I will take two others with me and we will *make Winn see* that she has *no* right to meddle in the prophet's decisions *any longer*!" He stepped down and into the shadows of the cave, cheering greeting his back.

Bariel Marin stook a deep breath and let it out slowly. He had already decided who he was planning to take with him, his two closest and most trusted friends. He had no intention of letting Winn get away with this. Bariel's retribution for his brother's death was long overdue and it was time for Winn to pay.

*******

Julian glanced up as two men walked into the infirmary. One was a tallish, exaspreated looking Vulcan, the other was a rather cocky looking Trill. Julian set the sample he had been studying down. "Can I help you?"

"We're looking for a Dr. Bashir," Moren spoke up. "I assume you're him."

Julian nodded slowly. He had a feeling he knew who these two were. "I'm assuming you're the people from temporal investigations?"

"That's correct," Solan spoke up. "We were wondering if you had a few moments."

Julian glanced at his sample. "I'm afraid I'm quite busy right now. I'm in the middle of some delicate experiments."

"Well," Moren smiled, "Don't let us get in your way. We'll just have a look around."

Julian grunted. "Just don't touch anything," he said, turning back to his work. Julian turned back, carefully calibrating the scanner.

"Julian?" Dax strode into the infirmary, smiling. She stopped short when she saw Moren and Solan looking around the infirmary. She smiled slightly and moved over to Julian's side. "I brought the results you wanted," she said.

"Hmm," Julian murmured. "Thank you."

<Who are those people?>

<The guys from Temporal Investigations> he sent back, locking in more tightly to her mind. He glanced up to see Solan studying him with a mixture of suprise and curiosity. <Damn> Julian thought. He gently touched her hand so he could raise his mental sheilding to speak to her on a narrower band. <Be careful around him.>

<Sorry> She set the padd down next to him.

"Excuse me," Moren spoke up, turning to face them. "But it's imperative that we speak with you." His eyes landed on Dax and widened slightly.

Julian sighed and glanced up. "Can I just finish this first? Then we'll be able to speak at length." He caught Moren' appreciative look at Jadzia and bristled slightly.

"How long will it take?" Solan asked. He glanced at Moren and frowned.

"Ten minutes," Julian said. He glanced at Moren briefly before turning back to his work.

Jadzia smiled slightly. "Jadzia Dax," she said, extending her hand.

"Timdak Moren," he replied, shaking it. "We're going to need to speak with you too."

"I figured as much," Dax replied. She glanced at Solan. "I'm afraid I didn't catch your name."

"Solan of Vulcan," he replied calmly.

Dax smiled as Julian glanced up, something catching his attention. "Moren...that's not a symbiont name."

"I'm not joined," he replied, frowning.

Julian nodded and turned back to his work. Dax sighed and glanced at them. "What exactly do you need to talk with us about."

"You should know, Commander," Moren responded, scowling at Julian.

"I meant besides Captain Sisko," she replied, sighing.

"One would figure a Phoenix would be enough," Solan replied calmly.

"A Phoenix?" Julian echoed, placing the sample in the machine.

"Bringing back someone from the dead," Solan replied.

"Ah." Julian raised an eyebrow, regarding the Vulcan now. "Fascinating reference."

"Tosa's winds, not another one," Moren muttered.

Julian glanced at Moren and then at Solan. A slight smile crossed his face was mirrored by the Vulcan. <Found the soft spot> Julian grinned.

*******

Later on, Moren walked Dax back to her quarters, where Solan was talking with Bashir. She kept glancing at him, thinking. Finally, he asked her what was on her mind.

"Were you ever an initiate, Mr. Moren?" she sounded thoughtful. He glanced at her, thinking. He had been an initiate. He just didn't like to talk about it much. He hadn't even told his partner.

After a brief pause, "Yeah." he nodded, quickly. "Hard not to be. I was trained by the Commmission after my parents died."

She stopped walking at that. "You were. Then why weren't you joined? I'd have thought that would make you a shoe in..."

He thought about whether or not he should tell her. With a sigh, he thought back to the day it had happened.

....---flashback---.....

He wasn't sure he could describe the feeling. It was like falling through space. He felt a stabbing ache throughout his body. Moren was aware of voices around him.

"...isoboromine levels...dropping...48%..."

"...rejection setting in?"

No...he'd worked so hard for this to reject the symbiont...

He tried to open his eyes, but the light was so bright, he could barely squint. He could feel hands restraining him, trying to calm him down.

Before he blacked out, he could hear someone screaming.

____****______

Dax looked surprised. "Does your partner know?"

Moren shook his head. "He doesn't need to. Not really any of his business."

Dax's brows raised. "You were lucky," she said.

"Lucky," Moren scoffed.

"Yes," Dax said calmly. "That they realized you weren't compatable with the symbiont before the joining was permanent."

Moren sighed. "I should have been a perfect match," he muttered.

"The board can't account for every circumstance," Dax replied bitterly.

Moren said nothing. 'She could say that so easily,' he thought. 'She's one of the lucky ones.'

Dax stopped at the door to her quarters and tapped the control. It slid open and Julian glanced up, smiling. "Hello." He glanced mildly warily at Moren but said nothing.

"Hello," Dax smiled. Solan stood and glanced at Moren, who looked disturbed. Dax walked over to Julian side and kissed him briefly on the cheek.

"We should go," Moren said, motioning to Solan.

Dax nodded and watched as they left. She turned to Julian. "Have you ever gotten the feeling that you've known someone without meeting them?"

"Why?" he asked, picking up a padd.

"I don't know. I just feel like I know Moren from somewhere...he was an initiate."

"That's probably it," Julian smiled.

"I don't think so...I don't think Jadzia's ever met him." Dax's brow furrowed.

"Well, he wasn't joined so maybe he washed out before you would have gotten a chance to meet him."

"No," Dax said. "He *was* joined. But before the joining was permanent, they removed the symbiont. Apparently he almost went into rejection..." Dax's eyes glazed over.

"Really?" Julian asked, his interest piqued. He was cleaning up a bit, picking up padds that were lying around. "How did he survive?" He glaced up and his features turned into one of concern. "Jadzia? Are you alright?"

She glanced up at him, her reverie broken. "I...I'm fine. Just remembering something."

"What is it? You look like you've seen a ghost." He walked over and reached for her hand. Dax pulled back slightly, not wanting him to hear her thoughts. "What's wrong?" he demanded.

"It's nothing," she insisted. She shrugged out of her uniform top. "I'm going to go shower. Can you take care of dinner?"

"Sure," he said softly. He watched her go, a confused look on his face. That was the first time she had refused contact, physical or mental. It bothered him to no end.

Jadzia stepped into the shower, literally shaking. She hadn't thought about this in years. It had shocked and horrified her when she first found out about it as Curzon Dax from an old Commission friend of Audrid's, who was still with the board. 'Could it be that Moren is one of those? Is that why the symbiont rejected him? But that's not supposed to happen....they were *designed* to be completely compatable for joining!' Dax felt her stomach twist violently at that thought. Curzon had been horrified at the Commission's acts, genetically engineering Trills in vitro so they'd be more probable for joining. Dax closed her eyes and shook her head. She didn't know how to tell Julian. She knew she should but she knew he had been disgusted with how the Commission had acted towards her when Joran had started to make himself known. She had no idea how he'd react now.

Dax stepped out of the shower and pulled her robe on, twisting her hair into a towel. She walked into the family room to find Julian finishing setting the table. "Thank you," she smiled. "I know it was my turn but I really needed that shower."

Julian glanced up and smiled slightly. "It was no problem."

Dax took a deep breath and gently reached out and touched his hand. "I'm sorry about earlier," she said softly. "I needed to think for a moment." She felt his mind gently brush hers and his eyes widened. "Oh, my god," he whispered. "Jadzia..."

Dax took a deep breath and sighed. "I know," she said softly. "I feel the same way."

Julian let go of her hand and walked over to the couch, scrubbing at his face. "Jadzia, you realize what this means, don't you? You *know* about this..that makes you an accomplice. It's illegal for a Federation world to perform genetic engineering on it's people. And for something like *this*...it's unforgiveable."

Dax sank next to him. "Julian, I only heard it from a second hand source. I didn't know whether to believe it or not."

"But you had suspicions," he said, frowning.

"Julian, Curzon was a great many things but he would never disobey the board. It would mean exile and possible disgrace." She took his hand. "He wasn't willing to risk that on the basis of what someone told him. No matter how close a friend had been to Dax in a past life."

Julian sighed softly. "Do you know if they're still performing this?"

"Not to my knowledge," Jadzia whispered. "And I hope not. Because Moren was lucky he survived. Others may not be so lucky."

Julian closed his eyes and shook his head slowly. "Do you think he even knows about this?"

Dax hesitated. "I don't know," she whispered. She curled close. "I'm sorry about earlier," she appologized again. "I know it hurt you."

Julian managed a thin smile. <It's ok. I understand.> Dax smiled and kissed him gently. <How about dinner?> she said, pulling back.

<Sounds delicious> Julian grinned.

*******

Moren and P'Talemon were stepping into Ops when Kira announced the arrival of the local transport from Bajor. "According to the roster," she was telling Dax, "there are a few people from Dakhur. I wonder who.."

Dax smiled. "Thinking they might be some old friends?"

"Well, they're not listed under any name...just their location."

"That's odd," Dax frowned. "I thought Bajoran interspace commerce requires a full roster."

"It's a private liner," Kira said. "As long as they file a proper flight plan, they can take on whomever they want. Commercial liners are held to the roster regulation."

"Odd laws," Moren spoke up. "Major Kira, correct?"

Kira nodded. "You're the guys from Temporal Investigations."

"Yes," Solan said. "We were wondering if it would be possible to speak with you later. And we were wondering how we could get in touch with the Bajoran Kai."

Kira raised an eyebrow. "Kai Winn is still on the station. She's been meeting with Captain Sisko on a fairly regular basis."

*******

"Tell me, Emissary," Winn smiled. "What was it like?"

"What was what like?" Sisko frowned.

"Being with the prophets," Winn said, smiling beatifically. "I have to admit...I've always wanted to know..."

Sisko paused. "I'm not sure if I can put it into words," Sisko hedged.

"Try," came a new voice. Both Sisko and Winn turned suddenly. Moren and Solan stood there. Moren' arms were crossed and he was leaning against the doorway. "Captain Sisko, Kai Winn. What a wonderful suprise to get a hold of both of you at the same time. I'm Timdak Moren and this is my partner Solan. Department of Temporal Investigations."

*******

Bashir had opened Moren' medical file. There was a huge file about the near rejection. Apparently his isoboromine levels had drop dangerously low before they were able to remove the symbiont. Tim himself had apparently put up quite a struggle. The Trill had had to be restrained.

Dax pointed to a sealed file. "That. What is that?"

Bashir tried to use his access code to get into it. "It's locked down with a Symbiosis Commision code. I can't access it."

Dax tried several codes. "I can't get in either....could you scan his mind and find out?"

Bashir paused. "I'm not sure. I suppose I could try."

*******

Winn looked angry. "Am I being accused of something, Mr. Moren?"

Moren shook his head, the movement caused an odd dizziness. "No...we just need to determine the uh....."

He swayed heavily. "Tim? Are you allright?" the Vulcan looked worried. Sisko stood up.

Moren shook his head. "No...I um....." He fell backward. His partner managed to catch him.

"Sisko to Bashir. Medical emergency..."

*******

Julian's eyes widened slightly. "Shit," he muttered, darting for a medkit and out of the infirmary.

"What happened?" Dax asked, chasing after him.

"Something happened to Moren....I don't know what. Dammit, I *knew* I shouldn't have tried that...." He shook his head and tapped the doorcomm, barely waiting for it to open before walking in. Julian knelt down next to Moren and ran the tricorder over him. Dax watched as his brow furrowed in confusion.

"Doctor?" Sisko asked.

"I'm not sure, sir," Julian replied. "I need to get him to the infirmary."

"Sisko to O'Brien." There was a slight pause before O'Brien responded. "Aye sir?"

"Beam Dr. Bashir and Agent Moren to the infirmary."

"Aye sir." The two dissapered a few seconds later. Dax glanced at Sisko, mildly surprised and amused. Sisko caught her eye and managed a slight smile. "I guess old habits die hard," he said softly.

*******

Julian was staring at the bioreadings in shock when Jadzia walked in. "What's wrong?" she asked, concerned.

Julian shook his head slowly. "Dear god...you were right about him," Julian said softly. "Definetly genetically enhanced." He took a deep breath. "And now he's definetly telepathic."

Dax looked at the bioscans. "How could prior scans have missed it?" She looked up.

Bashir shook his head. "I don't know. If he'd known about it, I'd say he'd masked it somehow. I just don't know." He sighed. "Prior scans missed my latency."

Jadzia leaned forward, gazing at the screen. "Maybe we're missing something," she said, a gentle hand resting on his shoulder.

"Like what?" he asked, running his hands through his hair. "I've run every neurological scan I can think of."

Dax bit her lip and picked up a padd of data. She turned to lean against his desk and studied it. "You're the expert in this area," she said, gazing at the numbers. She understood about half of what was on there.

Julian raised an eyebrow. "Thanks. That's a help."

Dax grinned at him over the padd. "You're welcome," she teased. She glanced back at the padd and shook her head. "I'd say the only thing you can do is ask Tim if he knew he was genetically engineered when he regains consciousness."

There was a startled gasp from the door and they both turned to see Solan standing there. Julian glanced at Dax, the comment about her using 'Tim' sliding to the side for a moment. "Solan, I didn't see you there...."

He glanced at Bashir. "I see." He hesitated. "I overheard what you just said...how certain are you that he was genetically engineered?"

"Ninety-nine point eight nine five percent," Julian replied calmly. Dax shot him an amused look but said nothing.

"I see," Solan said, glancing towards the door.

"Excuse me, but you didn't know?" Dax asked softly.

"He never disclosed that information to me, no," Solan replied.

Dax exchanged a look with Bashir, who simply shrugged.

"Data to Commander Dax."

Dax tapped her commbadge. "Go ahead," she said.

"Can you meet me on the Rotunda outside of the new klingon restauraunt?"

"I'm on my way," Dax said. She glanced at Julian. "I'll be home around 2000."

"Alright," he said softly. She nodded at Solan and strode out. Julian turned back to the Vulcan, taking a deep breath.

*******

Dax stepped off the lift and walked over to where she could see Data standing near two large Klingons. "What can I do for you Commander?" she asked, slowing.

"We seem to have a problem with space allocation," Data said ruefully. "Apparently, we've given out more spaces than we are able to."

"What?" Dax frowned. "That's not possible. I double checked the leases myself." Her eyes narrowed and she glanced over at Quark's. "He wouldn't have," she muttered, storming towards the door. Data watched in interest and raised his hearing distance.

"Now Commander," Quark was sputtering, "business is business."

"Quark," Dax growled. "This isn't business. You had no right hacking into the computer and leasing out space on the Rotunda. How many *deals* like this did you make?"

"Just this one!" Quark said, sounding somewhat strained.

"You'd better not be lying," Dax said. "Now...what to do about the space." There was a pause. "You seem to have quite a bit of space here Quark..."

"No way Commander!" Quark sputtered. "This is *my* bar."

"This is *my* station, Quark," Dax retorted. "And you're interfering with *my* job."

Quark sighed. "I'll speak with the Alderians about the *arrangements* we had made."

"Good," Dax said. Data watched in amazement as she walked out. "Everything's sorted out. It seems Quark thought we had extra space for sale and decided to take it upon himself to sell it."

"Typical Ferengi tactic," the taller of the Klingons snorted. "When will we be able to set up?"

"In a day or so," Dax said, putting on her most ingratiating smile. "I'm sorry for this inconvenience." The Klingons grumbled something but headed off.

Data glanced at Dax. "I'm impressed. Although...what you said isn't exactly truthful. Quark knew we didn't have the space."

"Yes...but we don't want Quark to end up dead, now do we?" Dax smiled. "I'm used to this sort of thing. I'm also used to dealing with Quark." She glanced at Data and smiled. "You'll become accustomed to it after awhile."

"Yes," Data said, a hint of a frown crossing his features. "But, with recent events, I'm beginning to wonder whether this post will remain mine."

*******

Julian glanced up as Moren began to regain consciousness. "Take it easy," Julian said. "You've had quite a shock."

"What the hell happened?" Moren groaned.

Julian took a deep breath. "It's a long story," he said, shifting uncomfortably. "But the gist of it is a mind brush woke up areas of your mind that had been advanced, although dormant, until now...most notably, your paracortex."

"What?" Moren asked. "In english, Doctor."

"You're telepathic due to the fact that your paracortex, along with the rest of you, was genetcially engineered." Julian took a deep breath and attempted to gague his patient's reaction.

Moren stared at him in shock. He then burst out laughing. "Yeah, right. Nice try. Now, why don't you tell me what really happened?"

Julian raised an eyebrow. "You didn't know about it?" he asked. "I'm surprised the Commission didn't tell you...." He paused. "But, come to think of it, either your parents didn't die or were killed by the Commission so telling you would raise a lot of questions, that being one of them."

Moren stared at him in shock for all of three seconds before throwing himself off the bed and onto his feet. "How dare you," he snapped. He swayed and Bashir caught him quickly, moving with reflexes he was only recently rediscovering. "I was lucky to be raised by the Commission after my parents died. Orphans aren't exactly viewed in a positive light on Trill."

Bashir sighed. "You were genetically engineered in vitro as part of an experiment to determine whether it was possible for the Commission to genetically engineer Trills to be perfect matches for joining."

"If that was true," Moren spat out, "I'd be Timdak Alaris. I'm sure Dax told you that I was supposed to be joined."

"Yes, she did," Julian said. "However, as with any experiment, there's can be grave mistakes. Especially ones that deal with genetic engineering." He sighed. "I don't want to believe this any more than you do but, according to Jadzia, this happened. And, according to the evidence, you're a product of those experiments."

Moren stared at him for a long time. "What did you mean I'm telepathic now? I don't sense anything..."

"I've given you a blocker," Julian said, smiling slightly. "Until you can go for training, I'd recommend that you keep it..."

"No." Moren frowned. "I don't want to keep taking hypos of whatever the stuff is."

Julian frowned. "Tim, I'm speaking from personal experince here...it's very disorienting at first."

"I know what happened to you doctor. I did my research before coming out here. I'll be fine." Moren stood up. "Now, I don't suppose I can go."

"I don't see why not," Julian replied. "However, there is one more thing....your parnter overheard Commander Dax and myself speaking about your new...condition...."

Moren stared back in shock. "I see. Well, thank you Doctor. I'll be going now."

Bashir watched as he strode out, barely acknowledging Dax as she walked in. Dax studied his back for a moment before turning to Julian. "I take it things didn't go too well," she said softly.

"He was shocked, to say the least." Julian straightened up some instruments. "Maybe you should speak with him about it. It might help him to talk about this with someone from his own world."

Dax nodded slowly. "Alright. I'll see what I can do."

Julian smiled. "So. What did Commander Data want?"

"You wouldn't believe me if I told you," she smiled. "Let's just say that Quark's up to his old tricks again."

Julian glanced up at her and raised an eyebrow. "He didn't!" he laughed, catching a wisp of her thoughts.

*******

Sisko sat in the quarters he and Jake were sharing, reading. Since the incident with Moren, Winn had retired to the Bajoran temple and Sisko had retreated to his quarters.

"Hey Dad," Jake said, walking in. "Have you looked around this place? It's *huge*!"

"So I hear," Sisko smiled.

"Have you heard from Star Fleet command?" Jake asked.

Sisko took a deep breath. "Not yet, Jake-o. I'm sure they're having enough trouble with the computers trying to change my file as it is."

Jake laughed. "I can just see it. Born, died, displaced, brought back to life."

Sisko smiled slightly, somewhat amazed at his son's resilience. "It should be interesting." He paused. "I talked with your grandfather earlier."

Jake glanced up. "How is he taking this?"

Sisko winced slightly at the far too serious question. "He's surprised, to say the least." Sisko paused. "How are *you* taking this?"

Jake started. "What do you mean? I'm fine."

Sisko studied him. "All right. What if I told you I'm considering leaving the fleet."

Jake stared at him in shock. "You're kidding me right? I mean, what would you do?"

"I don't know," Sisko said. "But I do know I've been given a second chance and, to be honest, I don't see Star Fleet giving me this post back and I don't want to leave the Bajoran sector."

*******

Jadzia walked into their quarters late that evening. She had been talking with Moren for several hours, telling him what she knew about the experiments. He hadn't known how to take things and had asked her to leave after several hours saying he needed to think. Dax sighed. She had never thought she'd end up confronting someone who was a part of an ethically wrong experiment.

Julian glanced at her as she entered. "Hello," he said softly.

Jadzia sighed and sank down on the couch next to him. "Hello," she whispered. She felt his arms slide around her waist and pull her close. Jadzia smiled sadly and rested her head against him. "He's not taking this well."

Julian nodded, gently smoothing her frustration down. "I know. He'll manage though."

Jadzia sighed and tipped her head up to look at him. "Have you eaten?"

He nodded. "I had something about an hour ago." He gave her hand a squeeze. "Go change out of your uniform and then why don't we head to Quark's?"

Jadzia smiled and nodded. "That sounds good." She kissed him gently and moved into the bedroom. A few minutes later she walked out as she was attaching her commbadge. "Well, let's go. I'm starving."

Julian smiled and motioned her out the door onto the balcony. The walked to the 'lift and headed to Quark's. Once inside, they got a table and Jadzia ordered a salad. Julian gazed around the place. "I think he probably got the nicest spot."

"Knowing Quark, that doesn't suprise me." Dax gently nudged Julian with her foot. "Look who just entered."

Julian glanced over to see Solan walk in. Julian could sense that he was disturbed, as Vulcans never became upset. He sent a mental invitation out and turned to Jadzia. "I asked him if he wanted to join us. I hope you don't mind."

"Of course not," she smiled. "Looks like he accepted." She frowned. "He seems upset."

Julian stifled his laughter as Solan approached. "Have a seat," Julian said.

"You mentioned you wanted to speak with me?" Solan sat down primly.

Julian raised an eyebrow. "I invited you over to speak with us. You looked...disturbed."

"I am not disturbed," Solan said shortly. "I'm simply..troubled by this turn of events."

Dax rested her hand on his knee. <I don't see the difference between disturbed and troubled.>

<For a Vulcan, there's a world of difference....connotatively disturbed implies an emotional response.>

<And troubled doesn't?>

<Not as much> Julian glanced at Solan. "What exactly is troubling?"

"You mentioned my partner is now telepathic. How exactly did this come about?"

Julian felt his stomach twist slightly. "I do not see the relevance of that question.."

"I am simply curious."

Julian sighed. "I was attempting to do research in the database when I discovered a password lockout of his file...I was simply trying to ascertain whether he knew anything of it."

"You probed his mind searching for information without his permission?" Solan commented, looking more *troubled*.

Julian forced his features into one of neutrality. "Essentially, yes."

"It was my idea," Jadzia interjected. "The information we needed could prove to be vital for Tim's survival. Both men turned an odd look to her. "What?"

"Nothing," Julian replied quickly.

"You realize that this is a breach of ethics on your part," Solan said. Julian nodded. "Yes. But Commander Dax is also correct. I was simply acting in Moren' best interest." He sat back. <Trust me on this.>

Solan frowned. "So now what, Doctor?"

Julian sighed. "I have him on represents for the time being but he'll need to receive training."

Solan nodded. "Agreed. However, we have more pressing matters to take care of here with your actions to revive Captain Sisko."

Julian exchanged a look with Jadzia. "Honestly, I don't see how we've disrupted the timeline."

"Doctor, bringing someone back from the dead is a very disrupting action."

*******

Bareil sat in Quark's, brooding. It had been a few days since he'd arrived to the station, and he was still trying to sign on members for his "cause". They couldn't let the clone live. It would completely destroy the memory of the real Emissary. Damn the Kai.

*******

<pain....a lot of pain. He couldn't remember when anything had ever hurt so much........He could feel the symbiant twisting and writhing inside him, in complete and mortal agony. He heard the doctors rushing about him, something about his...isoboromine levels...everything turned red>

*******

Julian snapped up, his eyes wide, his shielding snapping up automatically. He shook his head slowly to clear it, brushing away the last whisps of someone else's nighmare.

Jadzia stirred next to him. "Julian?"

Julian glanced at her and gently smoothed the hair off her forehead. "Go back to sleep. I just accidentally picked up on someone else's dream."

"Hmm. Who?" she murmured.

"I don't know," he said. He sank back down next to her, feeling his pulse return to normal. Dax curled close, drifting off. Julian smiled and closed his eyes. He waited until he was certain she was asleep before doing a brief sweep of the station. He sighed softly as he realized who it was.

*******

Sisko stood on the Rotunda, staring down at the arboretum. He had been wandering around the station for the day, feeling more like he was in limbo than when he really was. He knew that any post Star Fleet might have for him would be postponed until the temporal investigators finished investigating. In the mean time, he was getting used to being alive' as Bashir had put it. Sisko walked away from the railing and headed towards the turbolift. He got in and gave the order for it to go to the central habitat ring and leaned against the back wall. The lift halted and another man stepped on. Sisko's eyes went wide for a moment in shock. "Bariel?"

"Yes," he said. "Only, not the Bariel you're thinking of. I'm Bariel Marin."

Sisko smiled in recongnition. "His brother."

Bariel nodded. "Yes. Emissary, you and I need to talk about recent events."

Sisko hesitated. "What recent events?"

"You." Bariel frowned. "Captain, surely you see Winn only did that for her own gain. She's manipulative, cunning, and doesn't care about Bajor or her people. She only cares for herself and her career. You of all people should know that."

Sisko hesitated. "I won't argue the past with you Marin."

"And you can't argue with the present either." Marin leaned forward. "You know that you weren't meant to come back. You were meant to stay with the Prophets."

Sisko frowned, suddenly feeling nervous. "Marin, regardless of what you may believe, I'm here now. The only reason I was with them in the first place was because of some fluctuation with the wormhole reacting with the warp field. I don't even know the details."

"And you will return when you die again," Bariel said, looking infinetly calm.

Sisko glanced forward in relief as the doors slid open. "I'm afriad I don't share your view, Bariel." He stepped out and the doors slid shut before the other man could pursue him.

*******

"He what?" Dax gasped.

"Threatened me," Sisko said. "Sort of."

Julian glanced at Sisko. "What do you mean by sort of?"

Sisko sighed. "He made mention that I shouldn't be here. And that I would be with the prophets when I die."

Dax glanced at Bashir. "Well, that could be interpreted two ways."

Sisko frowned at her. "Trust me, it wasn't meant as a consolation."

Julian sighed softly. He scrubbed a frustrated hand through his dark hair. "Why would Bariel care?"

"Revenge," Dax suggested. "Not against you Ben but Winn."

Sisko thought about it, considering. "Perhaps."

Julian shifted uncomfortably. "If he's gunning for Winn, where does that put *me*?" he asked. Dax and Sisko turned to look at him. "After all, I performed the procedure on Bariel...and was instrumental to this whole thing." He saw Sisko's features turn grim.

Dax sighed. "I don't know," she said softly. "I didn't even know he was on the station until you came and told us, Benjamin."

Julian shook his head. "Didn't you mention that Kira has said some people had come to the station from Dakhur province?"

Dax started. "Yes, she did. Why? What do you think they're planning?"

"I don't know," Julian said slowly.

*******

Solan found his partner sitting in the observation bay. Moren had obviously felt him enter, as the Trill seemed to freeze. It was as if he expected Solan to lash out at him. The Vulcan cleared his throat.

Moren barely acknowledged Solan. He'd stopped taking the suppressants last night, and it was all he could do not to remain conscious.

"Tim," Solan began. That caused the Trill to start. The Vulcan rarely used his first name. "You've stopped taking the suppressants," he commented neutrally.

"Yeah," Moren replied. "I couldn't stand them. But you should know that."

Solan didn't miss the bitterness in Moren' voice. "Vulcans do not intrude into other people's thoughts. To do so would be incredibly rude."

"Hmm. Bashir was trained from the Vulcan ethical standpoint and he had no problem taking a look when it suited him." Moren laughed bitterly. "That's how this all started."

Solan regarded the Trill carefully. "Regardless of what Bashir did, he is correct in saying you should continue with the suppressants. Until you are properly trained, things will seem a confused mix, especially around so many untrained minds."

Moren turned to look at his partner for the first time since he had entered. "I noticed," he said bitterly. "Every time I run into someone, I feel like I'm going to jump out of my own skin."

"Then I suggest you see Bashir again."

Moren sighed. "Wonderful. It's ironic. The only two people I can barely stand to be around are you and Bashir because I can't hear your thoughts."

"Commander Dax's mental shielding is quite advanced for someone of your species," Solan put in.

"Must come from being with a telepath," Moren replied wryly.

*******

Winn walked calmly through the arboretum. She was amazed at the progress that had been made in here since she had arrived. Healthy green plants flourished and bright flowers interperced the greenery, adding flashes of color to the otherwise verdant space. Winn stopped briefly, staring at a colored sphere which sat on a pedestal.

"It's a gazing ball," a female voice chimed in. Winn turned to see a petite oriental woman walking over. "They were very popular in Victorian gardens on Terra centuries ago."

Winn smiled at her. "It seems to be very conducive to clearing ones mind."

"That was their original purpose. But they eventually just turned into decorative peices." The woman smiled again.

Winn nodded. "I don't believe we've met," she said after a moment. "Keiko O'Brien." She bowed deeply at the waist, her hands pressed together in front of her, a long ingrained habit from her culture when greeting an elder or member of a religious order.

Winn returned the bow, smiling slightly. "Ah, yes. I believe I've met your husband on occasion."

Nearby, Bariel watched as the two women talked. 'This is the perfect time,' he thought. 'No one is around. No one will catch you. It's a shame that the oriental woman will have to perish but one can't always pick and choose.'

*******

O'Brien sighed as Bashir tossed the darts at the board. "We're definetly going to have to try a blindfold."

Julian chuckled. "Oh, come on Chief. Just cause I'm having a lucky night doesn't mean anything."

"Lucky night? More like week," O'Brien scoffed, taking aim. He tossed a dart and grinned broadly. "It appears my luck is changing also," he commented nodding towards the bull's eye.

Julian sighed in frustration and tipped his head in Jadzia's direction as she walked over. "Hello," she smiled. She gently wrapped an arm around Julian's waist. "How close are you to being done? I was thinking we could go walk through the arboretum now that it's almost finished."

"Hmm," Julian smiled, pulling her close. "That sounds nice." He glanced at O'Brien. "Unfortunately, we're evenly matched tonight and there's no way I'm going to throw the game."

Jadzia laughed and released him. "I didn't say you had to." She watched as O'Brien stepped aside to let Julian throw. Dax watched as the three darts landed on the board, all rather good throws. "How about I meet you there?" she asked. "I want to get out of this noise."

Julian glanced at her. "All right. Where?"

Dax hesitated. "I don't know...I've not been in there."

O'Brien glanced at them. "Keiko mentioned putting in a gazing ball.' At least, that's what she called it. You just follow the path towards the center. You'll see it."

Jadzia smiled at him. "Thank you Miles. Where is Keiko anyhow?"

"Probably in the arboretum," he replied.

"Hmm. Maybe I'll run into her. I'll see you later." Jadzia leaned in and gave Julian a quick kiss.

"I'll be there as soon as I can," Julian replied. Jadzia smiled and walked out.

Miles chuckled. "What happened to not wanting to marry?"

Julian sent him a look. "What makes you think that we're getting married?" he asked. Miles sent him an amused look. Julian sighed and smiles. "All right . . maybe I'm thinking about it.

But this is different. Jadzia's a career officer also. She knows the demands of Star Fleet."

"Uh huh," O'Brien sa