"Used meperidine to sedate . . . .", "A mixture of reticulmide and choriostimine in first injection. Injected into subarachnoid space. Increase in reticular formation, despite presence of sedatives. An increase in the production of cerebrospinal fluid by the choroid plexuses. Increase in ionic transfer. Electrochemical pulses are able to travel easier . . . .", "Notice a discrepancy in normal functioning of paracortex . . . .", "A mixture of neuropahlamine and cerephetamide used in second injection. Injected directly into the cortex and paracortex . . . . Sudden increase in activity of the paracortex. Electrochemical impulses tripled . . . . Subject in a state of catatonia. Brain waves have radically altered . . . . Subject revived from catatonic state. Sedated with mixture of methadone and hydromorphone . . . ."

Dax tossed the padd across the room, fighting back nausea. Between the carelessness and lack of concern Zimmerman had shown, she was ready to take a bat'telh to him. Odo had said Julian had had trouble breathing in security. Respiratory distress was a sign of too many sedatives in the system. Zimmerman was lucky he hadn't caused Julian to fall into a coma. As for the stimulants . . . . Dax shook her head, struggling to remain calm. She stood up and retrieved the padd and headed to security.

*******

"Just what the hell did you think you were doing?" she snapped, waving the padd at Zimmerman.

"I was attempting to study . . . ."

"No, I don't mean that," she snapped. "I don't give a damn as to why you did this. Did you ever consider what the effect of the different drugs you injected into him would do? He's already showing signs of a slight overdose of sedatives. I can't even figure out what the stimulants will do to him. I do know that because of the increase in norepinephrine, he was able to completely smash the controls of the door in order to get out." Her eyes flashed angrilly. "Then there's the matter of the neurogun. It's been outlawed for years and for a good reason. Damn you. On top of all this, did you ever consider what injecting both stimulants and sedatives would do? Let me tell you, they don't cancel each other out. They compete for f**king control!" She slammed the padd down. "Now, I want to know exactly what you did!"

*******

Julian closed his eyes and swallowed hard. His mouth was dry, his heart was pounding and he was having trouble breathing again. He heard footsteps approach and knew it was Jadzia before she said, "Hi."

He cracked one eye open and managed a thin smile. "What can I do for you Dax?"

She smiled slightly. "Just try and get some sleep. I'll be in your office if you need anything." She gently squeezed his shoulder and he nodded. She walked off and Julian felt his heart rate drop drastically. He closed his eyes and willed himself to get to sleep.

Dax sat down at his desk and called up the latest scan. It showed that the levels of both the stimulants and sedatives had dropped. She decided that they would be gone in twelve hours. Then she could begin to assess the damage. However, his psilosiline levels remained elevated. She sighed softly and began filling out her report.

*******

Dax stood in Sisko's office, waiting for him to finish reading her report. She was exhausted, having stayed up most of the night, making sure Julian was going to be okay. After several minutes, Sisko glanced up. "In English, Old Man."

Dax rocked back on her heels. "Zimmerman used a common sedative to knock Julian out. In the first injection with the neurogun, he used two stimulants. Reticulmide stimulates the reticular formation, which basically wakes the cerebral cortex. Choriostimine affects the production of cerebrospinal fluid. An increase in CSF causes an increase in the ionic transfer. Then Zimmerman noticed a discrepancy in the readings from Julian's paracortex. I still haven't been able to figure out exactly what he saw as the readings I'm getting now are a mess." Dax took a deep breath and continued. "Then Zimmerman injected two more stimulants directly into Julian's cortex and paracortex. The electrochemical impulses tripled. I looked up neurophalamine and cerephetamide. It turns out that, when used together, they've been known to cause synaptic formation. Julian's mind couldn't take the constant stimulation anymore and he slipped into a catatonic state. Zimmerman said that he noticed several readings were radically different and he was about to run a more detailed scan when Julian woke up . . . screaming." Dax paused, swallowing. It was difficult to remain this dispassionate when she wanted to tear Zimmerman apart. "He then sedated him with a combination of methadone and hydromorphone." Dax stopped, feeling her temper flare again.

Sisko sat back and absently picked up the baseball that sat on his desk and kneaded it. "What exactly does this all mean Dax?"

Jadzia sighed. "Benjamin, I don't know. Whatever Zimmerman did though has drastically . . . changed Dr. Bashir. I know it sounds crazy but I think that the combination of neurophalamine and cerephetamide somehow stimulated Julian's paracortex, forming new synapses."

"Which means . . . ."

"He's telepathic now." Dax watched at Sisko sat back, clearly disturbed. "I can't explain it," she continued. "This shouldn't be remotely possible in a human being." Dax noticed Sisko facially flinch slightly. "What?" she asked.

"Nothing. Go on." Sisko steeled his expression into one of concern.

Dax studied her friend for a moment. "Even if the two chemicals _did_ cause synaptic formation in Julian's paracortex, he shouldn't suddenly become telepathic."

Sisko nodded slowly. "How is the doctor doing then?"

Dax sighed. "He's suffering from both stimulant and sedative overdoses. He's occasionally having difficulty breathing, which is a sedative side effect. His heart races, which is an effect of the stimulants. All in all, he's not good. Things should start to even out in a few hours but, until then . . . ."

Sisko nodded and carefully set the ball back on its stand, leaving Dax with the impression that he slammed it down. "Keep me posted Dax. In the meantime, get some sleep. You look terrible."

Dax nodded and walked out.

*******

Nurse Idyt eyed the medical scanner. The sedatives we now completely gone from the young doctor's system, yet his heart rate was still off. She was about to tap her commbadge when Bashir suddenly jolted.

The heart monitor beeped as his heart sped up to supplement his racing synapses. His breathing was becoming increasingly erratic.

"Idyt to Dax." She paused, not quite sure what to say. "It's Bashir. There's something . . . happening."

"On my way."

******

It was clearer now. He was in a corridor. The voices were clearer, but sounded like they were being projected through water. He concentrated.

"...under attack...Dominion...warn Starfleet...Bashir...Invasion...."

********

Dax continued to monitor Bashir's neural output. The readings were quite high. He appeared to be dreaming, yet he wasn't in REM sleep.

"What's wrong with him, Old Man?" Sisko demanded.

"I don't know, Ben.."

Bashir jolted again. His eyes opened, his breathing becoming slowly normal. "What...what..what's the stardate?"

*********

Dax studied the readings for the one hundredth time. It just didn't make sense.

"Is there anything I can do?"

Dax's head snapped up at the sound of his accent tinged with annoyance and boredom. "What are you doing up?" she frowned.

Julian sank down in the chair across from her and shrugged. "I, ah, could hear what you were thinking and thought I might offer a hand. This is my life we're talking about after all and I'm the only doctor on the station."

Dax's frown deepened. "You heard what I was thinking?"

Julian flushed slightly. "Yes, well, there isn't much I can do about it right now. I'm still rather new at this," he replied sarcastically.

Dax sighed and shook her head. "I'm sorry I snapped. But you should still be in bed." She saw a look of mild amusement cross his face and glared at him. "Doctor, I don't know where your mind is . . . ."

"Same place yours is," he grinned, unable to resist.

Dax flushed, although she knew she had no reason to. "Well, at least your sense of humor is back," she muttered. She smiled grudgingly and handed him the padd she had been studying. "I hope you can make sense of this."

Julian accepted the padd and glanced over it, an odd feeling filling him. It wasn't often that he studied a padd of his own readouts.

Dax studied him carefully as he read it, wondering how he remained so damn dispassionate. No sooner had she thought this when she felt a burst of anger and frustration from him. <I'm going to kill him> she heard and bit her lip. "Take a number," she smiled sadly. "I've got first dibs. Then O'Brien, Sisko, and Odo."

Julian glanced up, startled. He smiled slightly and nodded, acknowledging the sentiment behind her lighthearted response.

"To be honest," Dax spoke up, "This wouldn't be so confusing if you weren't human."

Julian glanced back up at her, frowning. "What do you mean?"

"I mean, normal humans don't suddenly become telepathic," she replied. She saw a look of shock cross his face. "What?" she asked, frowning.

"What what?" he replied, studiously turning his attention back to the padd.

"Benjamin did the same thing you just did when I said the same thing while giving my report."

Julian looked at her, confused. "What?"

Dax paused and shook her head. "When I said that normal humans don't suddenly become telepathic, you flinched. So did Benjamin when I said the same thing. Why?"

Julian hesitated and glanced down, collecting his thoughts. He had assumed that if Odo knew, the entire senior staff did. He knew he had to tell her so they could figure things out. He would expect a patient to provide any and all pertinent information. He'd be damned if he wasn't going to say anything just because he hated being on the other side of the scalpel.

"Julian? What's wrong?" Dax reached over and gently took his hand. Julian's eyes widened as her mind became completely open to his and, not being trained, she had access to his thoughts as well. He quickly pulled his hand back but the damage was done. Dax was staring at him in wide-eyed shock. Julian couldn't sense much more than that from her as his own mind was whirling with her thoughts of a few seconds ago, memories from her lifetime and past ones.

"Oh, my god," Dax whispered. Julian winced. More than anything, it mattered to him that she understand and accept this. "You . . . ." she trailed off and glanced down. Julian felt his heart seize and he started to stand up when he saw a tear trail down her cheek. "Jadzia?" he asked softly, confused.

"This was my fault," she said, slowly, deliberately. "If I hadn't given Zimmerman your journals . . . ."

Julian shook his head. "You didn't know," he said softly. "I don't blame you for what happened. I'll be damned if I let you blame yourself."

Dax glanced up at him and smiled slightly. "Still," she said softly. "That's why you reacted so violently at Quark's. God. I'm sorry. It doesn't change things but . . . ."

Julian sighed. "If it makes you feel better, your forgiven. I still don't blame you but your forgiven."

Dax laughed softly and glanced down at his desk. "Out of curiosity," she said, "why did you give me your journals if you wanted to keep this a secret?"

Julian sighed and glanced up. "I don't know. Keeping a secret like that isn't easy and, well, who else could I tell but one of my best friends."

Dax glanced up and smiled at him. There was a long pause which she finally broke. "Well, why don't we see if we can make heads or tails of this then."

*******

THREE MONTHS LATER

Bashir sat in the Medical University of Vulcan listening to Leonard McCoy talk about psionic particles. He must've dozed off because when he looked up, McCoy was gone, and a Vorta was in his place.

"What the.."

The Vorta was talking, but Julian couldn't make out the words. They were too slow, like if you took a vid recording and slowed it down. He blinked and the scene changed. He was now on Earth, standing on Starbase One. Someone was running towards him, a young woman. An Ensign.

"Doctor! They're here!"

"Who..who's here?" he looked at her, confused and suddenly she was gone...

He was still in the corridor. He could hear voices overlapping over voices, screams over screams. He began to walk. Trying to find the source.

He found a doorway, partially open. There was a laser blast through the controls next to it. He pushed it the rest of the way open and....

"Doctor?"

Julian's eyes snapped open to stare into ice blue ones. He scrambled backwards and the chair he had been sitting in tipped over. He landed on the floor with a grunt. Bashir glanced up to see McCoy standing over him amused. "I know lectures can be boring at times boy, but it doesn't show well when you don't leave after they're over."

Julian flushed bright red. "I . . . I'm sorry. I wasn't asleep. Not exactly. I . . ."

"Save your breath boy. You need it on this damnable planet." McCoy shifted back a few steps as Bashir struggled to get to his feet. "Need a hand?"

"No," Julian said, disentangling his long legs from the chair. He stood and righted the chair. He extended a hand to McCoy. "Julian Bashir, Deep Space Nine. It's an honor to meet you Admiral."

McCoy laughed. "An honor?" he barked. "I know who you are, son. You're the one who has Star Fleet Medical all in a huff with Zimmerman and the Vulcan mind technicians all in a tift with your esp rating. Speaking of which, don't you telepaths hate being touched?"

Bashir let his hand drop as he shrugged. "Force of habit," he said affably. McCoy grunted with amusement and the two started walking, Julian matching McCoy's pace as the elder man walked with the aid of metal supports. They stepped out into the famed Vulcan heat and Julian immediately felt himself start sweating. He glanced at McCoy out of concern. A man 150 years old shouldn't have to deal with the heat that one was subjected to on Vulcan. "Are you alright?" he asked.

"I'll be fine," McCoy wheezed. "It's just across the street, dammit." They stepped into the Terran Embassy with sighs of relief. McCoy sat himself down in a chair to catch his breath.

"You should ask for a transport," Julian chided, pulling a tricorder out of his kit. He scanned the older man and shrugged. "Triox out to do it for now though." He pulled out the appropriate hypo and injected it. A few seconds later, McCoy's breathing eased. McCoy stood up and nodded his thanks to Bashir as they walked out onto the enclosed porch. "Alright. I know why I'm stuck on this godforsaken planet but why did they send you here of all places?"

Julian sighed and leaned back before launching into his story.

Julian glanced around the infirmary and called up the days schedule. He was just setting up for the first appointment when the computer announced an emergency medical transport.

Bashir whirled about as the whine of the transporter filled the room and was immediately blasted by emanations of fear and pain. He took two steps forward and suddenly collapsed.

He woke to find himself in the hallways of DS9. People were quickly walking to evacuation stations. Julian was buffeted by barely contained fear. He spun around as the station rocked violently. He heard a deep rumble come from deep inside the station and people around him began to scream as the minds of the people on the lower decks were a mixture of fear and pain and then nothing only to be cut off as the explosion consumed them . . . .

He was outside of DS9 . . . unprotected in a vacuum. He snapped his gaze around and saw several unidentifiable ships attacking the station, causing severe damage, even to Julian inexpert eye. He gazed at the station as the ships swooped around it like vultures. As he was watching, one of the ships' phasers pierced the defensive screens and scarred the station. Julian felt panic rise in him again, but for a different reason this time. The other ships attacked the hole in the shields, phasers and torpedoes slowly destroying the station. Then, one ship managed to get in a lucky shot and hit the area nearest the reactors.

The station exploded.

Julian jerked upright and found himself resting on one of the biobeds. He glanced around to orientate himself. He spotted another figure across the infirmary and he realized what happened. He could see that the sheet had been pulled over the person's head.

"Julian?" He snapped his head towards the voice and found Jadzia Dax standing near the bed.

"Dax . . . what happened?"

"I was hoping you could tell me that," she whispered, studying him.

Julian sent another look over at the bed. "What happened?" he repeated.

Dax hesitated and walked over and sank down next to him. "There was an explosion in one of the cargo bays. They transported him over here. The person that accompanied him said that you flinched, took a couple steps forward and then passed out." She paused. "By the time your staff responded . . . ." Julian paled visibly. Dax gently took his hand. "Julian, it wasn't your fault. You aren't used to this yet. Whatever you felt was probably too much for you to handle."

Julian shook his head. "That's no excuse. Someone died because of what happened." He took a deep breath. "I want to know what happened."

Dax hesitated and then stood up. "There are a couple scans we could still run. I don't know what help they will be but . . . ." She paused. "Julian, no matter what we find, it's not going to change how things are. You're just going to have to deal with this."

Julian nodded. "I know." Dax nodded and walked away to set up.

*******

Dax stared at the results of the scan. "I can't explain it Julian. I don't know if there is one."

"Dax, there has to be an explanation," Julian frowned, projecting his frustration.

Dax sighed and glanced back at the results. "Are you sure you weren't a latent telepath before this? Maybe the . . ."

"Tests activated my paracortex?" Julian smiled slightly. "I don't know Dax."

She sighed in frustration, wondering how much of it was hers and how much he was projecting on her.

<Sorry.>

Dax jumped and shook her head. "You know, I'm still not used to that."

<Neither am I but there's not much I can do about it, is there?>

Dax gazed at him. "No. Probably not." She sensed his frustration again, mixed with . . . she wasn't sure. "Julian? Are you sure you're okay?"

He glanced at her and smiled slightly. "Yeah, just fine. Couldn't be better."

Dax took a startled step back. Not so much as his words but at the emotions he projected behind them. Julian took another breath and sighed. "I'm sorry. I guess I'm going to have to be a bit more careful from now on."

Dax smiled slightly. "Don't worry about it. It's been a hell of a few days."

Julian chuckled mirthlessly and nodded. Dax was about to say something when Sisko walked in.

"Doctor," he said, looking a bit unnerved. "I've just talked with Star Fleet command." Julian stood up, ready to turn his pips in and quietly leave the station. Sisko saw this and shook his head. "Considering the circumstances surrounding, well, everything, they're going to let you keep your commission and posting. However, it is their recommendation that you take an extended leave of absence to Vulcan in order to cope with your newfound . . . talents." Sisko paused and then added, "And, considering what happened earlier, I'm inclined to agree. You're officially placed on extended leave as of this moment."

Julian absorbed this. "Who will be taking my place?" he asked quietly.

"The Enterprise is due to dock here later this afternoon. Dr. Crusher is sending over one of her staff. The Enterprise is then going to Vulcan to meet with several ambassadors there so you'll be leaving here with them in two days."

Julian smiled slightly and nodded. He glanced at Dax and briefly projected his thanks before walking out.

*******

"Captains log, Stardate 49xxx.x

"The Enterprise has successfully docked at DS9 and has sent Dr. Bashir's replacement, Dr. Adam Voorhies, over. Although Dr. Crusher was upset at losing a member of her "already thin crew," she nonetheless signed the transfer when she saw the reason.

"Dr. Bashir is to board the Enterprise before she departs in twenty-four hours. I have already spoken to Counselor Troi about speaking with him about his recent experiences . . . ."

Julian shifted uncomfortably as he, Dax and O'Brien walked to the airlock. He had already said goodbye to the rest of the senior staff but Dax and O'Brien had insisted on walking with him. He paused as he reached the doors and turned to face them and found he was at a loss for words. These were his two best friends on the station. He briefly thought about the dreams he had been having and quickly pushed those thoughts aside.

O'Brien smiled understandingly. "Don't worry. We'll make sure the new doctor doesn't rearrange everything. Just send a message once in a while saying you're okay, eh?"

Julian smiled and nodded. "Thanks Miles." A common understanding passed between the two of them. Miles smiled and nodded to Dax before walking off.

Dax smiled at Julian. "Everything's going to be okay," she said.

"I know," Julian replied, a part of him wondering if this would be the last time he saw her.

Dax hugged him for a moment and then pulled back. "Writing goes double for me," she said. "I carry a grudge and I can beat you up."

Julian laughed quietly and nodded. "Alright."

Dax smiled and started to turn but paused, turned back and quickly kissed him square on the mouth before walking off. He gazed at her retreating form, startled. After a moment, he picked up his duffle and walked on. He paused inside the airlock and glanced around.

"Doctor!"

Julian turned and smiled as he spotted a familiar form walking towards him. "Commander. It's good to see you again . . . ." He paused as sensations of excitement and curiosity reached him. "Commander, when did you receive emotions?"

Data looked mildly surprised. "Before the Enterprise disaster on Veridian III." Data studied him with his usual curiosity. "I see the rumors have some factual basis."

Julian frowned unhappily. "Rumors already? I don't even want to know . . . ."

Data nodded and motioned for them to walk. "I was asked to show you to your quarters and to inform you that you are to meet with Councilor Troi at your nearest convenience."

Julian sighed. He had been expecting that but had hoped to pass it by. "I see."

"Also Dr. Crusher said that you are to meet her in Sick Bay in two hours."

Julian perked up a bit. This was one meeting he was looking forward to.

He and Data walked the rest of the way in silence. When the reached his temporary quarters Data spoke up. "I would like to talk with you about your experiences. I find it remarkably fascinating what happened." He saw the look that crossed Bashir's face and quickly amended, "Of course, I do not condone what happened by no means. It . . . ."

Julian smiled slightly. "Forget it Data. I know what you meant. Maybe a bit later."

"Of course, Doctor." Julian stepped in and leaned against the door as it slid shut behind him.

*******

Julian stepped into Sickbay two hours later and glanced around. He had changed into civvies when he had gotten settled in. He spotted Dr. Crusher in her office and smiled. He walked in and leaned against the door frame. "Don't tell me you forgot," he complained, grinning broadly.

Beverly Crusher looked up and smiled broadly as she stood up. "Julian. It's been a long time. How have . . . " She stopped and looked mildly abashed. "I'm sorry. I forgot for a moment."

Julian smiled and shook his head. "Forget it Beverly. I've gotten used to it." The two hugged.

Beverly pulled back and studied him critically. "You haven't been sleeping much, have you? Or eating."

Julian sighed and shook his head. "No, not really."

She nodded. "I thought as much. Why don't we go get some dinner and we can talk."

Julian smiled and nodded. "I'd like that."

The two walked out of Sickbay and into the main mess. The ordered their meals and sat down. Beverly studied the young doctor as they did. "So," she began. "What exactly happened?"

Julian didn't even look up as he answered. <There's not much to tell Beverly as I don't know. I was unconscious most of the time.>

Crusher jumped, startled at first. "I see," she managed to reply.

Julian glanced up apologetically. "I'm sorry. I guess I'm getting a bit tired of answering questions." He glanced around and raised an eyebrow. "Well, either they heard and didn't care or I'm getting a bit better."

Crusher studied him critically. "Julian, you're dealing with this remarkably well."

"Well, there are two ways for me to deal with this. Either I break down completely or I deal with it and move on. As I don't intend to be away from my post for too long, especially considering Star Fleet is being rather lenient with me, I figured I'd deal with it and move on."

Beverly nodded. She had been expecting this to come up. She had known about Bashir's enhancements from when he was still in Star Fleet Medical. One of the patients he had gotten one afternoon while working in the emergency ward had thrown him through one of the glass windows. He had come under her care at Star Fleet's infirmary. Beverly had noticed a slight discrepancy in his genetic pattern and had run a more detailed scan. When he regained consciousness, she had asked him about it. He had tried to feign ignorance but she wouldn't hear anything of it. He had finally told her the whole story. She couldn't blame him for what happened and, even though it was against regulations, had ignored her findings and had even helped to mask the discrepancy so that his secret would remain a secret. When he asked her why, she had simply responded, "You're one of the best doctors to come out of the academy in a long time and a caring and compassionate person. Star Fleet needs more people like you." At the time, the young doctor had blushed down to his boots and barely managed to stutter out a thank you. Beverly glanced across the table at him. "I have to admit, I'm rather surprised."

"You're surprised?" Julian smiled slightly. "I was all set to turn in my pips when the Captain walked in with the news."

Beverly smiled in response and glanced over his shoulder as she spotted someone. Julian turned and saw an attractive woman walking over. He felt a prickle of thoughts at the back of his mind and realized that this must be the Councilor.

"Deanna, won't you join us?" Beverly asked.

The woman smiled and nodded as she pulled up a chair. "Hello," she greeted the doctor. "Deanna Troi, ships Councilor."

Julian extended his hand. "Dr. Julian Bashir." He saw recognition light her eyes as she accepted his hand. "I'm sorry I didn't show up earlier," he commented idly. "I had just finished settling in and realized that I had to meet Beverly."

"It was no problem, Doctor," she commented, mildly overwhelmed at the strength of his mind as they shook hands. From what she had heard, she was also amazed at the control he had. It was very limited but advanced for someone who had just acquired telepathy.

<Thank you, Councilor. A friend of mine showed me some basic techniques. They've helped a little, but not much.>

Deanna didn't even flinch. <I see. That's good.>

Beverly watched the two of them, feeling mildly left out. Julian glanced her way and smiled, mildly abashed. "I'm sorry Beverly. I guess it's mildly rude."

Crusher smiled at him. "That's quite alright. Now, I want to hear about what's happening on Bajor lately. At your last letter, Kai Winn had just been replaced by First Minister Shakaar."

*******

Julian tapped the doorpadd, sighing heavily. This was his first session with Councilor Troi and he had to admit he wasn't looking forward to it.

"Come," he heard. Julian sighed and opened the door. He found himself in a comfortable looking office. There were a few objects to focus on, mostly for meditation and it was decorated in warm, relaxing colors. Julian smiled slightly. "Councilor," he said by way of greeting.

"Hello, doctor. Have a seat." Troi smiled, sensing his discomfort.

Julian sank down on one of the chairs. Deanna leaned forward and set a padd on the table. "So, where should we begin?" she asked, conversationally.

"I haven't the slightest," Julian countered. "That's your job."

Deanna paused, mildly surprised at the bitterness behind the words.

<You're honestly surprised? I didn't ask for this to happen. Hell I'm not sure how it happened.>

"Is that important? Do you have to know what caused this?" Deanna asked neutrally.

Julian studied her for a moment. "Yes, in a way," he admitted. "I like being in control. And suddenly I'm not anymore. I don't like that."

"When was the last time you felt this out of control?" she asked.

Julian gazed at her thoughtfully. "Years ago. I . . ." He flushed slightly. "It's rather difficult to explain. There was a criminal, Rao Vantika. He was being transported by Kobliad Security when they ran into some trouble. Major Kira and I intercepted the ship and, through a microscopic generator, Vantika managed to transmit his consciousness into mine." Bashir shifted uncomfortably. "I didn't even know what was happening really, when Vantika's personality emerged but . . . ."

Deanna nodded slowly. "I see."

Julian glanced at her. "Actually, you probably don't but I don't think anyone can."

Deanna studied him and then decided to change subjects. "Do you remember anything from your experience with Zimmerman?"

Julian thought for a moment. "Not much. I know I was heavily sedated. There are glimpses. The most notable one I remember . . ." He hesitated. "Zimmerman had some sort of device . . . I don't remember what it was. It looked like a cross between an old-fashioned phaser rifle and a hypospray. I _do_ remember that it was very painful, whatever it was." He winced reflexively. He remembered seeing the contraption, the sensations and then . . .

Julian swung his gaze about. He was on DS9. Dax was standing next to him. "In any case," she was saying, "Dr. Voorhies will be able to manage the Infirmary while you're gone."

"I don't know Jadzia," he said. "There's something about him I don't trust."

"Just because you can't read him doesn't make him a criminal," she teased.

"It's not that," he protested. "It's just a feeling. He's bad news."

Jadzia sighed. "Look, we need you to get to Earth Julian. You know that."

Julian nodded. "I know. Just . . . keep an eye on him. And be careful," he added, tenderly.

Dax managed a slight smile. "You too," she said softly, gently brushing his cheek.

"Doctor?!"

Julian's eyes snapped open. He was sitting in Troi's office. She was leaning forward, staring him straight in the eyes, shock in her own. He shook his head. "I'm sorry Councilor. I seemed to have blanked out."

"Does this happen often?" she asked, trying to regain her composure. She had read the report about what happened with the emergency transport.

Julian hesitated. "Ever since . . . the incident with Zimmerman they seem to occur whenever something reminds me of what happened."

"What is the first one you remember?" she asked.

Julian stared off into the distance. "Right after Zimmerman used those contraptions. I have no idea what they're about or why I'm having them."

Deanna blinked as he projected confusion and irrational fear. She decided that they had done enough for one day. "Alright. Well, why don't we call it a day."

Julian nodded and smiled slightly. "You're good," he admitted. "I wasn't exactly looking forward to this and had every intention of being as uncooperative as possible."

"Well, that's why they pay me the 'big bucks', " she joked. Julian chuckled softly. "Why don't we meet again two days from now, unless you want to meet sooner than that. Also, if you have any more episodes, write down what you remember. It might help."

Julian nodded and walked out.

Deanna started typing on the padd, collecting her thoughts and possible topics for the next session. She knew there was more bothering the young doctor than simply not being in control. It was a deep rooted fear of something in his past that she couldn't place her finger on. At their next session, she decided to bring it up.

*******

"Julian," Beverly called out, catching the attention of the young doctor.

Bashir slowed to a stroll to let her catch up. "Hello Beverly," he smiled.

"You're in a good mood," she commented. "Where are you heading?"

"The holosuites," he said, twirling the racket in his hand. "I need to blow off some energy so I thought I'd play some tennis."

"Mind if I join you?" she asked. "I haven't played in a while though so go easy on me."

"Of course. I'll meet you there?"

"Just give me a chance to change." Julian smiled and nodded and Crusher strode off. Julian continued on his way to the holodeck and punched up the program. He stepped in and glanced around, taking a few practice swings as Beverly entered. "Ready?" he asked.

"Absolutely," she replied, walking to the other side. Julian waited until she was ready before tossing the ball high in the air and hitting it in a perfect serve. Beverly darted over and volleyed it back. They volleyed for several minutes before Julian won the point. "You haven't played in a while?" he asked, rasing his brows. "I'd hate to see you when you are warmed up."

Beverly laughed and motioned for him to serve again. Julian slammed the ball across the net and she returned in just as hard, sending him sprawling across the court in an attempt to return it. "I AM warmed up," she teased as Julian picked himself up.

"No kidding," he said, sending her a shocked look.

*******

"Doctor," Deanna smiled. "Glad you could make it."

"No problem," he replied, smiling in return. "So, what are we going to talk about today?"

"Your childhood," she replied. "What every councilor wants to talk about."

Julian bristled slightly but smiled slightly. "I see. So what do you want to know?"

Deanna leaned forward. "Julian, I know about your genetic enhancements."

"Everyone does," he shot back.

Deanna hesitated, reeling from the blast of emotions. "You know, doctor. It's poor form for a telepath to go blasting people with their emotions."

Julian winced. "I'm sorry. I'm just . . . ."

"Why don't we work on some basic shielding and exercises first," Deanna said.

Julian nodded slowly. "Alright. What do I do?"

The two worked for a half hour, Deanna teaching Julian various means to help him filter out the random thoughts and emotions and showing him some basic exercises he could do to keep in practice. "Betazed philosophy emphasizes use of our abilities," she said. "We have a streching exercise that we use."

"Streching exercise?" Julian asked, projecting his amusement.

Deanna grinned. "I know it sounds strange. Basically what you do is you first center yourself. If you aren't centered, the exercise won't work." She waited for him, as he understood she wanted to do this now. Julian closed his eyes and used some relaxation techniques Jadzia had taught him. "Good," Deanna said, mildly surprised he was able to relax so quickly. Julian opened his eyes, smiling slightly. "Now, start by reaching out to the people on this deck and move through the ship. Just sense their presence, don't pry. This will help with control, too."

Julian closed his eyes again and slowly lowered his shielding. He could sense Troi's patience and mild curiosity over his abilities. Julian pulled away from the curiosity, trying to ignore the discomfort it caused him. He reached out through the deck, feeling the surface thoughts of all the members, the cursory thoughts of what to have for dinner to what to wear for a date that evening. Julian moved slowly though the decks, focusing in on some while glossing over others. He could sense Data regarding his cat with a mixture of curiosity, which Julian had grown accustomed to in his friend as it was always present, and annoyance. Julian's mind reached the Engineering and Bridge and he could feel the concentration of the officers on duty, each preoccupied with his or her own task. After a moment, he slowly worked back in until he could only sense Deanna. Julian opened his eyes, regarding her carefully.

Deanna smiled slightly, unable to mask her amazement at his control. She was very curious as to what level . . . . She could sense his immediate discomfort with her curiosity and his shields snapped up. "Doctor," she began, studying him. "I'm curious." Julian reflexively bristled. "Why do you reflexively flinch whenever you sense curiosity from someone about you?"

Julian regarded her. "Because that's what put me here in the first place."

Troi nodded slowly. "Alright. Why don't we start there. You haven't much talked about your experience with Zimmerman, other than the fact that you didn't like the lack of control."

"What do you want to know?" Julian asked guardedly.

"Well, how did you feel about the whole situation?"

Julian stared at her, shocked. "How do you think I feel? Gods, what kind of question is that? That man changed who I was. I can't go back to my original life. Actually," he corrected bitterly, "That would be my second life."

"You're referring to your genetic enhancements?"

Julian hesitated. "Well, yes."

"Why did you say your second life?"

"Because whoever I was before I was seven died in that hospital," he replied bitterly.

Troi sat back, taking a moment to absorb everything. It was very apparent that he still resented what had happened and that what Zimmerman did just fed that anger. "Julian," she began, "Have you ever had any counseling about your experiences on Adigeon Prime?"

Julian laughed. "Of course not. How could I?"

Troi nodded, mentally kicking herself for such a question.

<It's alright councilor.> came a voice. <I'm sorry I'm being such a pain.>

Deanna studied him for a moment. <Doctor, you can't catch an empath off guard by doing that. I hope you realize that it's very disconcerting to other people though.>

Julian flushed a bright crimson. Troi sighed. <Julian,> she though at him, projecting comfort and understanding. <I know that this had been a trying time for you but I'm here to help.>

Julian shook his head. <I don't think you can possibly understand how I feel. Everything I was is gone. Again. It was difficult enough finding out the first time what had happened. This time there wasn't a damn thing I could do, even though I knew exactly what was happening, for the most part. As far as I'm concerned, Zimmerman can rot in the damn penal colony they're going to send him to. That man ruined my life, as far as I'm concerned. I might be able to keep my post but I'm not the same. Even the command crew has been treating me differently.>

Troi could sense a bone weariness in him and relief for having finally been able to vent. <Things will be different for you,> she said. <But it will all even out in the end. Who knows, these gifts of yours might be of greater help to you in your career.>

Julian sent amusement. <Gifts?> he said. <What on earth do you mean?> Deanna smiled slightly. <Doctor, you have an ability that I'll never have, due to my genetics. It was a long time before I came to accept that. I'm somewhat envious.>

Bashir blushed slightly again. <I'm sorry,> he said.

<Don't be. I'm not.> Troi glanced at the clock. "Well, I'd say that's enough for one day. Would you care for dinner Doctor?"

Julian smiled. <I'd be delighted, Councilor.>

*******

Julian walked into his temporary quarters and sank down on the couch, exhausted. He remembered his promise to write both Dax and O'Brien and dragged himself over to the computer.

*Jadzia-

Since you threatened bodily harm if I didn't write, I figure I'd better.

To be honest, there's not much to write about. We're about two more days from Vulcan so I'm in limbo right now. I had another session with Councilor Troi today. Other than that, I've managed to catch up on some reading.

I thought you'd like to know that the mental shielding that you showed me has helped. I appreciate your understanding and thank you for the hours of sleep I've managed to make up.

On a lighter note, I have found my equal in racquetball. I would have never guessed it but Beverly Crusher has a mean backhand.

I suppose I'll go now. I expect there will be more to write about when I reach Vulcan. Say hello to everyone for me.

Your friend,
Julian*

Julian stretched and composed a similar letter to Miles and decided to get some sleep. He was just starting to doze off when sensations of fear, panic, and excitement coursed through him. Julian sat up and glanced around, confused. He had worked daily to improve his shielding in exercises that Deanna had shown him and he had been able to block out the most basic sensations completely. 'It was a start,' she had said. He slowly let his shield down and realized that a woman on deck ten was going into labor. The fear and panic had been her husband. Julian closed his eyes, smiling to himself and fell asleep.

"So," McCoy frowned. "They send you here to learn to control yourself?" He saw Bashir nod, smiling slightly. "Christ, boy. Well, look at it this way, they had to get back at you for lyin' somehow." Julian arched an eyebrow and shrugged. He and McCoy talked a bit longer before he was called off. Julian sat on the porch for awhile and then headed to his room. He sat down and punched up the messages he had received over the last few days.

*Julian-

Glad to hear everything's going well for you. I'm sorry about the environmental controls.

Things here are very busy. Several new transports came in during the night and, for some godforsaken reason, the replicators are on the blink. I can't explain it yet, and stop laughing.

As for the rest of the crew, they all send their best. Oh, and Molly wants me to tell you that she likes you much better than Dr. Voorhies (no, he hasn't destroyed your infirmary . . . yet).

Be well,
Miles*

*Julian-

I'm sorry it's taken me so long to get back to you. Things have been very busy here.

<Since you threatened bodily harm if I didn't write, I figure I'd better.> <I'm back at my quarters, dying in the famed Vulcan heat as the environmental controls aren't working properly. Please, send some cool air my way.>

I'm glad you took my threat seriously. I'm glad things are going well for you, except for the environmental controls in your room. I've been on Vulcan so I can sympathize.

<sent to the medical center for test after test. They finally determined that you were right. Apparently I had been a latent telepath and whatever Zimmerman did activated my paracortex.>

I'm also glad they found out what happened, for the most part. I assume the rest will fall together at Zimmerman's court-martial. Benjamin told me that it will be taking place soon and that we all might be called as witnesses, although he doubts it as the evidence Odo sent out would be more than enough to send him to New Zealand Penal Colony for a long time.

I've also discovered that, dispite the added activity here on DS9, I'm doing less. I guess we had been hanging out a lot together lately. In other words, come back soon because I'm rather bored.

Love,
Jadzia*

P.S. I'm glad to see your sense of humor has returned. I was worried about you.

******

The Vulcan, T'Dai, turned to face him for a moment. Julian had gotten used to this. At the beginning of each session, she took an opportunity to asses his mental status before proceeding.

"You are greatly disturbed," she commented neutrally after a moment.

Julian nodded. "I've had two more visions about my fellow crewmates."

The Vulcan made a motion to share and Julian took a deep breath and began to explain.

"Miles, what's happening?"

"You, Molly and Yoshi are to get down to the evacuation stations." Miles rushed around the room, gathering necessities and stuffing them in a carry bag. "I don't have time to explain right now, just get the kids and go."

Keiko studied her husband for a long time and then nodded. "Alright. What about you?"

"I've got to stay here." He stopped and faced her. "Keiko, honey, I don't know what's going to happen but I want you to know that I love you."

Keiko nodded, tears filling her eyes. "I love you too, Miles." They kissed. "Be careful," she whispered.

"I will." Miles pulled away and walked into Molly's room to say goodbye . . . .

Kira stormed into the infirmary. "Well?" she demanded angrilly.

"Give me a moment major," came the reply. A middle aged man stepped out of the lab, his face grave. "I'm afraid our suspicions are correct. We'd best move quickly now."

Kira had paled slightly and then tapped her commbadge. "Dax, call the senior staff and go to red alert."

"And that's all I can remember."

T'Dai nodded slowly. "I see. These two are different from your earlier ones."

"I'm not an active part of them. I know." Julian sighed.

She nodded again. "There is still something that is bothering you."

Julian glanced up. "It's nothing specific, really. I'm just wondering why I'm not in these last two visions."

The Vulcan shrugged. "There are many logical reasons for it."

Julian sighed. He couldn't explain it but these visions left him with what McCoy described as "a bad taste in your mouth." He and the elderly doctor had developed something of a friendship and Julian had confided in him about his visions.

"Doctor, there is something I would like to try."

"What is that?" Julian asked.

"Would you consent to a mind meld?"

Julian's eyes widened. "Why?" he blurted out.

T'Dai raised an eyebrow. "Perhaps it would help you understand what is happening if an outside mind could see it also."

Julian considered all of this carefully before nodding once slowly. T'Dai leaned forward slightly and raised her hand to the contact points on his face. Julian closed his eyes and heard her whisper, "My thoughts to your thoughts."

Bashir sat across from T'Dai, a Vulcan telepath. They were deep in mind meld. Her mind pushed his mind into the depths of his memories.

*******

He was back on DS9 again. Back with Zimmerman. Back on the table. His eyes opened wide as the neurogun gun did it's job. Zimmerman didn't appear to take notice, and brought the gun down again.

Then he was on Earth. There were Jem'Hadar everywhere. He could hear the screaming. He walked, slowly, as if his feet didn't want to leave the present. He saw an oddly familiar figure, standing at the edge of what appeared to be a military compound.

He touched the figure's shoulder, and soon found himself face to face with himself.

"You have to warn them..." he heard his double whisper. And then he touched him.

*******

Bashir woke up on a biobed to find McCoy and T'Dai standing over him worried. He woke up breathing harshly and scared out of his mind. He was projecting it to them. He could feel it.

"I..I have to go back..." he managed to get out.

"Go back where, boy? Are you allright?" McCoy demanded.

"To DS9!" Bashir looked panicked. Like a madman. He ran out of the room in a hurry.

*******

Sisko stared at McCoy over the viewcom. "He wouldn't say what he saw?" McCoy replied with a negative. "you're sure he's coming here?"

"Yes, of course I'm sure. He said he was coming there!"

Sisko looked at Dax. Dax was worried. This didn't look good.

*******

Julian paced back and forth in his quarters on the passenger liner. They were moving at warp 4 but it seemed far too slow for his tastes. He had packed as quickly as possible and had left on the first transport possible. He had wanted to explain to McCoy why but he couldn't. He wasn't completely sure he would understand. Dispite the rapport they had established, the man's discomfort with Vulcans, specifically, and telepaths in general made him uncomfortable.

"Approaching DS9," a soft female voice announced. Julian slung his bag over his shoulder and practically darted to the airlock.

*******

"Doctor, welcome back." Sisko smiled slightly at his CMO. Although he appeared well rested, there was a nervous air about him.

Julian managed a tight smile. "Thank you sir." He glanced at Dax and he smile relaxed a bit. "Jadzia," he said softly. Part of his mind reflected back to the vision he had had of her. They had seemed very close, perhaps more than friends? Julian pushed the thought out of his mind.

Jadzia smiled back and gently hugged him. "It's good to see you Julian," she said. Julian hugged her back and pulled away. He glanced at Sisko and sobered up. "Captain, there's something I need to talk to you about."

"I assumed as much as you left Vulcan in such a hurry." Sisko regarded Bashir steadily.

Julian glanced around. "Not here, sir. I'm afraid this is somewhat confidential. Or will be in any case."

Sisko frowned and motioned for them to the turbolift. They headed up to Ops and walked into Sisko's office. "Alright doctor, explain."

Julian sighed, wondering where the hell to begin. He glanced at Dax and then back to Sisko. "I can't say exactly when, but the Dominion are going to attack the Alpha quadrant and destroy the station."

Sisko sat back in shock. "And what makes you say this doctor?"

Julian hesitated, strugling for words. How on earth am I going to explain this when I don't understand it all myself.' He glanced back at Sisko, an idea forming. "Sir," he said slowly, "if I may . ." he gestured to Sisko to hold out his hand. He did, wondering what the hell Bashir was up to as he touched his hand. Sisko was immediately overwhelmed by thoughts and images. After several minutes, Julian pulled his hand back. "I can't explain it sir, but it will happen."

Sisko shook his head slowly, trying to clear it. "But you don't know when?"

Julian shook his head ruefully. "I'm afraid not."

Sisko took a deep breath and let it out slowly. "If you find out, let me know immediately. In fact, if another of these . . episodes happens again, I want to know about it."

"Aye sir," Julian replied.

"Dismissed doctor. And welcome back." Sisko managed a weak smile. Julian nodded in response and headed out, Dax hot on his heels. "What happened in there?" she demanded, stepping onto the lift next to him.

"Aren't you on duty?" he asked softly.

"I'm on my lunch break. What _happened_ Julian?" Her eyes scanned him.

Julian sighed. "Halt lift," he said softly. He turned to her. "Are you sure you really want to know?"

Dax nodded. She felt his hand brush hers and she could see people rushing through the station, Sisko, Miles, Kira, Odo . . . Scenes of destruction whipped past her, filled with extreme sensations of pain and fear. Jem'Hadar ships attacking DS9 and several soldiers beaming down onto Earth. When he pulled his hand away, Dax sagged against the wall. "Dear god," she murmured. She glanced up at him in shock. "Julian . . ."

"I can't explain it Dax, so don't expect one." He gently supported her with one arm. "You alright?"

"I'm fine," she said softly. She glanced at him confused. "Wait, how come you're, I mean," she gestured to his arm firmly wrapped around her. Julian glanced and grinned. "Vulcan mental shielding is an amazing thing," he smiled. "Computer, resume." The lift slid into motion and when they arrived on the Promenade, he unwrapped his arm from her. "I'll see you later?" he asked as she stepped out.

Dax smiled slightly and nodded. "How about dinner at Quark's tonight?"

"Sounds wonderful," Julian smiled back. Jadzia nodded and headed off as Julian announced, "Habitat ring."

*******

Bashir stared at the doors of the turbolift, waiting for them to open. He suddenly saw a bright flash, and when the turbolift doors did open, he found himself in Ops. The place looked different. There were Jem'Hadar everywhere, Vorta at the consoles. And in Sisko's place.....

Another flash. He was on some kind of exam table. A familiar looking Vorta was standing above him. There were all kinds of medical instruments around the room.

Another flash. An interrogation. Garak?

*******

The turbolift doors opened and Bashir snapped out of his trance. He had no idea what any of that was about. He wasn't sure he wanted to. He got back to his quarters and quickly recorded what he could remember and sent it to Sisko. Then he went about settling back in.

*******

Dax sat patiently at a seat in the back of Quark's waiting for Julian to arrive. She smiled delightedly as he walked into the crowded bar. She was about to stand up and motion him over when he hesitated for a moment and then turned and walked over. "Hello," she smiled.

Julian smiled back, sitting down. "Well, it is easier to find you in a crowd now," he quipped. "Do you know how odd a joined Trill's mind feels?"

Dax smiled. "Very much so," she joked. Julian laughed and glanced up at the waiter that approached. "Two black holes, override the synthale, would you?" Jadzia asked. The waiter glanced at her skeptically and walked off.

"Jadzia," Julian protested. "You know I don't . . . ."

"You look like you can use a very stiff drink. Black Holes are about as stiff as they come." She eyed him critically. "What's wrong?" she asked.

Julian frowned at her. "Why?" he asked as the waiter arrived with their drinks. The two of them ordered dinner and Dax gazed at him expectantly. Julian sighed. "It's nothing. Just a side effect from not being completely settled in. "

Jadzia took a sip of her drink waiting for him to elaborate. When he didn't she sighed. "Okay. I'm going to take a wild guess then. You had another one of those . . ." She motioned with her hand.

Julian sighed and nodded. "How'd you guess?" he asked, sipping his drink. He glanced skeptically at the thick black substance and sighed.

Dax reached over and gently took his hand in hers. She was rewarded with his eyes widening in shock as he drew his hand back. "What's wrong?" she asked, concerned.

Julian shook his head. "It's nothing. Never mind."

"No," Dax frowned. "What just happened?"

"Nothing. I guess I just tuned into you for a minute there. Happens sometimes, even through shielding." Julian glanced at her, mildly ashamed.

Realization hit Dax after a moment and she smiled slightly. "I'm sorry. That was my fault."

Julian waved her off. "It's no problem. It just startles me every now and then."

Dax smiled slightly. "You seem more relaxed about all this," she commented.

Julian smiled. "Well, it was either move on and deal with it or fall apart. They don't let you fall apart on Vulcan." Dax laughed. Julian gently rested his hand against hers. Dax glanced at him, mildly surprised. "Just testing," he grinned. "Besides, I'm not Vulcan. I don't want people thinking they can't touch me. It'd be pretty damn inconvenient trying to work."

Dax laughed and gave his hand a squeeze. Julian's mind reflexively flashed back to his vision of her. He gently shook his head to clear it.

"Julian?" Dax glanced at him concerned. "Are you alright?"

He glanced up, surprised. Her bright blue eyes were searching his. He forced a smile, trying to push the picture away. "It's nothing Dax. I guess I'm just tired."

Dax studied him for a moment. "Well, maybe we should call it a night then."

Julian shook his head. "No. I'll be okay."

Dax smiled slightly. "You're a terrible liar, Julian Bashir." He grinned sheepishly. "If you want to go, I won't mind."

"No. Don't worry about me. Besides . . . ." He stopped and flushed.

"Besides what?"

Julian desperately tried to stop blushing as he replied. "I'm curious as to what the surprise is that you have planned."

Dax's jaw dropped and then she grinned. "People like keeping secrets you know." Julian's blush deepened. She smiled and finished her drink. Julian glanced at his and realized that he had finished it. "Come on," Dax smiled. She led him upstairs to the holosuites.

"What is this?" Julian asked, studying her.

"It's your welcome home present," she smiled.

"A welcome home present?" Julian repeated amused. "Maybe sleep can wait a bit longer?"

Dax grinned and shook her head. "You are hopeless. But, just to tease you, Quark recommended this one."

"You bought a holo program from Quark?" Julian was suddenly apprehensive. Dax laughed at him and opened the doors. They walked in and Julian's eyes widened in surprise. "This is London!" he exclaimed.

Dax nodded, looking around. There was a fine mist that surrounded them and chilled her. Julian, on the other hand, hadn't looked this alive in months. "So what is this?" he asked, looking around.

"A mystery," she smiled. "I figured you might like it."

Julian turned to her and smiled. "Thank you."

Dax nodded and glanced around. "Is it always this cool?"

Julian shook his head. "No. It's probably early spring in this program." He took a deep breath and grinned. "Even smells real."

Dax laughed and walked off, exploring. Julian followed. "So what mystery am I supposed to solve?"

*******

O'Brien was fixing the ODN Relay in Ops when suddenly there was debris flying. He found himself lying on the floor, in considerable pain. People were rushing all around him.

*******

Bashir and Dax were exiting the holosuite when Julian felt an overwhelming sense of dizziness. Dax managed to catch him before her fell. She stared at him, concerned. "Julian? What is it? What's wrong?"

He looked at her, trying to comprehend her words and the fear someone was manifesting to him at the same time. "I..um..." He shook his head trying to clear it. "Miles..."

Dax took one look at him, and tapped her commbadge. "Dax to O'Brien." silence. "O'Brien to Dax."

"Infirmary to Bashir. There's an emergency."

*******

When Bashir entered the Infirmary, he saw a crowd of Medical personnel working on O'Brien, who appeared to be suffering from radiation exposure.

Bashir took three tentative steps towards the fallen Chief, and suddenly couldn't move any further.

"Doctor?" Idyt looked up. "Are you coming?"

***paintoomuchpainstopitstopit****

Bashir took a step back, as if someone had pushed him. Dax took one look at his panicked expression and went over to help Idyt with O'Brien.

**stopitstopit**

Sisko looked up from his seat to the side, waiting. He stared at Bashir for a minute, then went over to him. "Doctor? ..Julian are you alright?"

Bashir stared at Sisko for a moment, then everything went black.

*******

It was dark. Very dark. There were sounds of talking around him. He could barely make out the words. "...dead? ...I don't know...Dax....ds9 destroyed...call...."

The scene exploded in a brightness of color. He was on the bridge of the Defiant. People were rushing around. Dax was also here. She appeared to be in charge. What happened to Captain Sisko?

"Get those quantum torpedoes back on line!" she shouted to a nearby Ensign. "Open hailing frequencies and raise shields!"

"Shields at 35%. They're not responding to our hails." Barclay looked almost reverent near his station, instead of his usual panicked self.

Bashir stared at his surroundings. This was different then before. He felt almost interactive. Less like an observer. Dax look almost right at him, when he felt the dizzying effect again.

*******

Sisko stared at the two filled biobeds, almost glaring. One occupied by his Chief Engineer, one by his Chief Medical Officer. Both looked pretty bad judging by the flock of Medical Staff attending to them. Dax hovered between the two, looking at the medical readouts.

"I don't like it." she finally said. He looked at her for more input. "O'Brien's stable. He should be fine."

"And Bashir?"

"Who knows? Deep in some telepathic trance, it looks like. They're coming so quickly now." She paused, seemingly for effect. "It could mean something...It could be nothing..."

*******

Darkness again. Bashir could hear voices but they didn't seem to be part of a vision. They were close . . . almost as if . . .

"Contact with the telepath was established, Weyoun?"

"Affirmative. He should be coming around now."

"Good."

"Try to find out how much he knows about the impending . . ."

*******

Bashir woke up with a start. The room was dark. Sisko was standing by him.

"Doctor..."

"They know we know..." Bashir blurted out. "They know I know . . ."

Sisko stared back in stunned shock. "What do you mean doctor?"

Julian took a deep breath. "They know that we know about the impending invasion. I could feel them in my mind. They were able to . . . ." His gaze focused in over Sisko's shoulder in shock. "Doctor?" Sisko asked, concerned. Julian was vaguely aware of his presence or a gentle hand (Jadzia?) resting on his shoulder as he reached to the back of his mind. Oh my god,' he thought in shock. He could feel the slight pressure of another mind against his. With what remained of his mental strength, Julian lashed out with a psionic bolt, sent across the mental link. He felt shock and pain before the mind left his. He sagged against the wall in relief.

"Doctor?" Julian glanced up to see Sisko's concerned face peering at him. "What happened."

"Whoever it was was still there," he murmured, trying not to look too upset. Dax exchanged a look with Sisko and gently gave his shoulder a squeeze. "Who Julian?"

Bashir fixed an unwavering gaze on her. "Weyoun, I believe. I remember that name. Somehow, he was able to mentally link with me. They must have found out I was telepathic."

"How is that possible?" Sisko demanded. He was only now getting used to this change in his CMO.

"It shouldn't be," Bashir frowned. "Each mind has a specific frequency, if you will. Part of telepathy is being able to tune into that frequency. It's possible over short distances, perhaps more if you've already communicated with that person before but . . . not from the Gamma Quadrant"

"Doctor, if you're right about the invasion, perhaps they're closer than we think." Sisko intoned quietly. Julian swallowed nervously and glanced at Jadzia, who looked just as disconcerted.

"For our sake, I hope not sir," Julian said quietly. "Because they'd practically have to be on top of the station to find me. Unless . . ."

"Unless what?" Sisko demanded.

"There's a device that boosts telepathic emanations. If they were using one of them, they could be as far away as, say, the Badlands." Sisko met Bashir's gaze and tapped his commbadge. "Sisko to Ops."

*******

The female founder paced around the table where Weyoun was lying. Something had happened during his examination of the doctor-telepath's mind. The tech attending to him motioned her over as he began to stir. "What happened?" she demanded.

"That . . . bastard . . . psionic blast." Weyoun gasped. He was sweating and shaking in mild convulsions. "Sent . . . over link."

"I'm going to have to sedate him," the tech said. "There's been some damage to the CNS and PNS. Until I know how extensive it is . . ." The female founder nodded and the tech injected the sedative. She watched as his thrashing slowed and stopped before she called the bridge. "Open a subspace channel to our forces."

*******

Julian paced his room. Jadzia had ordered him to get some rest but he couldn't sleep. He had tried every relaxation technique he knew and he was still wound up tighter than a spring. He heard the door chime and he reflexively reached out to see who it was. "Come in Jadzia," he called.

Dax poked her head in the door. "I thought you wouldn't be asleep," she said, stepping in.

"You thought right," he replied, turning to face her. He shrugged expansively. "I'm a little wound up."

"Everyone is," she said softly. "Benjamin has us continually scanning the surrounding space. He practically forced me out of Ops though about an hour ago to get some sleep."

"I see you're about as successful as I was," he sighed. Dax laughed. "Have a seat," he said, gesturing to the couch. "Can I get you anything?"

"Tea?" she suggested. Julian nodded and got them both two decaffeinated herbal teas. He sank down next to her and sighed. "I take it nothing's happening yet."

"Besides scanning?" Dax shook her head. "I think he's going to call a staff meeting though. Soon. We need to know what's going on and form a plan of action."

Julian shifted uncomfortably. Dax gently set her hand on his arm. "I suppose you already know what that will be," she said softly. Julian glanced at her and smiled slightly. "Bits and pieces. I've not had much chance to really try and piece things together."

Dax sighed and gave his arm a squeeze. "Well, I guess we'll just have to manage."

Julian glanced at her and smiled warmly. "I suppose so," he said softly. A comfortable silence passed between the two. Julian knew he would probably be sent to earth with Odo and he felt that there was so much he wanted to say to her. He felt her head rest against his shoulder and practically jumped a foot. Dax glanced at him startled. "What? You didn't just tune into me again, did you?"

Julian smiled fondly. "No. Not really." Dax smiled and slid closer. Julian glanced at her in surprise. "Jadzia?" She glanced at him. "What . . I mean, this . ." Julian suddenly felt very awkward. She smiled slightly and gently took his hand in hers. "Words getting in the way?" she asked teasingly. "You've been around telepaths too long."

Julian laughed, blushing. "Perhaps," he said.

"Why don't you just send it then?" she suggested.

Julian raised an eyebrow. "Just because I've been around telepaths for awhile doesn't mean I can't communicate verbally anymore."

Dax laughed. "Perhaps," she teased back, mirroring him. "But sometimes words don't always convey complete meaning."

Julian gazed at her, wondering if he was loosing his mind. If he didn't know better . . . <Jadzia?> He noticed she didn't even start in surprise. <If I didn't know better, I'd think you're coming on to me.>

"What do you mean if you didn't know better?" she asked, smiling slightly. Julian's eyes widened slightly. He leaned forward hesitantly and gently pressed his lips against hers. He felt her respond, gently raising one hand to his cheek. Julian pulled back after several moments, regarding her with a mix of astonishment and delight. "If I had known it would take the threat of a Dominion invasion would get that reaction, I would have arranged for it to happen a lot sooner," he smiled. Dax shook her head in amazement and kissed him again. Julian pulled her close.

Bashir's eyes widened as the dizziness gripped him again. Dax felt it too, and barely caught him when he collapsed.

*******

There was a flash of light. He was in the explosion. In the center of it. He could see the ships firing on the station.

Then he was in the station. Before the attack. The Dominion was here. Vorta everywhere....

*******

Dax watched Bashir on the biobed. His eyes kept blinking rapidly, as if he were trying hard to wake up. His heart rate was accelerating. His EEG was at twice the normal speed.

O'Brien still lay on the next bed. He was awake, however. "What's wrong with him, Dax?"

Dax shook her head. She didn't know. She didn't think anything was wrong with him. Sisko enter, cleared his throat.

"Admiral Necheyev wants him and Odo off the station. Sent to Earth."

"So he can tell them what he knows?" Dax asked. Sisko nodded. "I'm not sure how much he does know..."

"She thinks that one of their Vulcan empaths may be able to help with that."

Dax nodded and glanced at Bashir. "I'll let him know he's supposed to see you when he wakes up." Sisko nodded and walked out.

Dax glanced back down and Bashir and sighed. <You certainly know how to show a girl a good time> she thought teasingly. To her surprise, the corner of his mouth quirked upwards. "Julian?"

"Yes Dax?" He glanced up at her, amusement lighting his features.

"I didn't realize you were awake," she said, glancing at the readouts. They were approaching normal.

<Obviously> he teased, sitting up. Dax flushed slightly. Julian glanced over at Miles. "How are you feeling?" he asked, looking a bit upset.

"I'll be fine," Miles said, waving him off. Julian nodded slowly.

"Julian, Captain Sisko wants to see you immediately," Jadzia said softly.

Julian turned to face her. "What about?"

Dax took a deep breath. "You and Odo are to go to earth to brief them about what's happening," she explained.

Julian's eyes widened in shock. "Are you certain?" he asked slowly.

Dax nodded, confused. "Yes. Why?"

Julian gently touched her hand. <Because that's exactly what happened in my visions, love.>

Dax took a startled step back, remembering. "Well," she said lightheartedly, "maybe now that things are different, what you saw won't happen."

Julian regarded her with serious brown eyes. "I hope you're right," he said softly. "But I'd feel much better if we got all the civilians off the station."

"Why?" O'Brien broke in, suddenly looking concerned.

Dax glanced from him to Julian. Julian glanced at Miles. "We have reason to believe that the Dominion's going to attack. And soon."

Miles' eyes widened. He sat up slowly, wincing. "In that case, can I be discharged so I can take care of my family?"

Julian glanced at the readouts and nodded. "I suppose so. But Chief, don't say why. We don't need a station wide panic yet." O'Brien glared at the younger man as if to say I know that.' Julian flushed slightly and nodded as O'Brien quickly left. Julian stood up and swayed slightly. He felt Dax's arm slip around his waist in support. <Thanks> he sent, smiling.

"No problem," she teased, releasing him. "I just have one question."

"What's that?" Julian asked, moving into his office.

Dax wrapped her arms around his neck. "Are you going to pass out on me every time I kiss you?"

Julian turned an amused expression to her. "I hope not," he said softly, gently brushing at her hair. "Although, I'm still surprised at this turn of events."

Dax lowered her gaze, slightly embarrassed. "I don't see how," she replied. "You're my best friend, my confidant. I guess it just took you leaving to make me realize how much you meant to me."

Julian smiled and gently kissed her forehead. "Well, I suppose it's better late than never," he said. Dax glanced at him and smiled. "You could say that," she grinned. Julian gently nuzzled her neck. "Promise me you'll get off the station after I leave," he whispered.

Dax glanced at him, surprised. "Julian, that's not fair. I mean, what about the others?"

"I'm going to tell Sisko," he said, a bit hurt by her statement. "I'll make sure that he knows and understands."

Dax kissed him gently. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to imply that you wouldn't." Julian nodded, kissing her in response. <I promise I'll try to get off the station,> she thought, hoping he'd hear. <I can't promise anything more than that though.> Julian nodded, pulling back. "Alright," he whispered. "I should go see Sisko," he said softly. Dax nodded and gently kissed him. "I'll see you later," he smiled.

*******

Julian stepped into Ops and hit a wall of tension. Every person on duty was standing stiffly at their stations. Julian nodded briefly to Kira and headed to Sisko's office. Sisko was sitting behind his desk. "Doctor," he said, standing. "Did Dax tell you what is happening?"

"Yes, sir," Julian replied. He glanced at the door. "She mentioned that Necheyev ordered Odo and myself back to earth."

"Yes," Sisko replied. "You're to leave as soon as possible aboard . . ."

"The Rio Grande," Julian finished with him. "Yes, I know." Sisko glanced at him confused. Julian managed a slight smile and tapped his temple. "Sir, I don't know if things are going to be different than what I saw but, regardless, I have the feeling DS9 won't make it through the battle . . ."

Sisko sighed and glanced out the window. "I know doctor. I've already laid out plans to evacuate to Bajor."

Julian nodded slowly, realizing that Sisko felt the impending attack most keenly and would do everything go get the civilians off the station. "Well, sir, I hope you won't find me presumptuous but I'd suggest starting."

Sisko glanced at Bashir. "Doctor, do you have reason to believe they're going to attack soon?"

Julian flushed. "Nothing more than a bad feeling, sir."

Sisko nodded. "Anything else doctor?" Julian shook his head. "Well, I'd suggest you prepare for your trip then." Bashir nodded and headed for the door. "And Julian?" He paused and turned. "Good luck."

Bashir tipped his head in acknowledgment. "You too, sir."

*******

Julian walked into the infirmary to gather a few things. "Hello?" came a voice. "Can I help you?" Julian's head snapped up and found himself staring at a vaguely familiar middle aged man. He straightened up. "I'm Dr. Bashir," he said, extending a hand.

The man glanced at the hand and then up at him. "I'm Dr. Voorhies. I was your replacement for while you were on Vulcan."

Julian let his hand drop slowly. "I see. Well, looks like you'll be holding down the fort here a bit longer."

"Why's that?" Voorhies asked.

"I've been ordered back to earth," Julian said, gathering the padds he wanted and placing them into a bag. He met Voorhies glance. "Is there anything that I can tell you about this place?"

"Nothing that I haven't already figured out," Voorhies snapped. Julian's brows flew up and he sent a gentle mental probe out. He was surprised to find he couldn't read him. <Either he's blocking me or he's psi null.> Julian nodded slowly. "Well, it was nice talking to you," he said. Julian quickly strode out, shaking off the feeling of discomfort that filled him.

*******

Julian walked into his quarters and found Jadzia sitting at the window. He smiled. "How'd you get in?" he asked.

"It wasn't locked," she replied, glancing at him. "I take it you're leaving soon," she said, motioning to the bag slung over his shoulder.

Julian nodded, setting it down on the table and gathering a few more things. "Sisko wants me and Odo out of here as soon as possible."

Jadzia nodded, watching him move around. "I figured as much. That's why I came here." Julian glanced up and she smiled. "You didn't honestly think I'd let you leave without saying goodbye, did you?"

Julian smiled and set the few padds he had gathered down. "I was hoping you wouldn't but I didn't know if I'd have time." He walked over and gently took her hands in his.

"You've got a few seconds now," she said, smiling.

"A few seconds isn't what I had in mind," he grinned. Dax flushed slightly and kissed him. Julian gently wrapped his arms around her. <I'm going to miss you> he thought. <I'll miss you too> she sent back. After several moments he pulled back, resting his forehead against hers.

"In any case," she said softly, "Dr. Voorhies will be able to manage the Infirmary while you're gone."

"I don't know Jadzia," he said. "I ran into him earlier. He was downright rude at points and I can't read him. There's something about him I don't trust."

"Just because you can't read him doesn't make him a criminal," she teased.

"It's not that," he protested. "It's just a feeling. He's bad news."

Jadzia sighed. "Look, we need you to get to Earth Julian. You know that."

Julian nodded. "I know. Just . . . keep an eye on him. And be careful," he added, tenderly.

Dax managed a slight smile. "You too," she said softly, gently brushing his cheek. Julian blinked and then grinned. "What?" she asked.

"Nothing. Just a mild case of deja vu." Julian bent his head and kissed her again. "I've got to go," he said after a moment. Dax nodded and released him.

*******

Julian stepped into the docking ring and headed towards the Rio Grande. He could feel the adrenaline rushing through him and couldn't help but think that this was the last time he'd get to see this place. Julian spotted a familiar figure walking towards him. "Captain Sisko," he called, breaking into a jog.

The commander turned and faced him. "Doctor, I thought you were supposed to be on the Rio Grande."

"I'm on my way there now." Julian felt a tiny prickle at the back of his mind. "I just wanted to suggest something."

"What's that doctor."

"Keep Odo here," Julian insisted. "He might . . . ."

"I'm sorry doctor but I need you to make it to earth alive and if Odo's on board that runabout, your chances of doing that are better. Now get moving." Julian blinked a few times at Sisko's forcefulness and nodded. "Aye sir. Good luck sir. I have the feeling you'll need it."

"To both of us," Sisko said grimly. Julian nodded uncomfortably and stepped through the airlock to find Odo waiting for him on the runabout. "Are you ready doctor?" he asked.

Julian set his bag down carefully and nodded. "Yes, I suppose so."

"Rio Grande to Ops," Odo said.

"Ops here," Sisko replied.

"Requesting permission to depart."

"Granted. Godspeed gentlemen."

"Thank you sir," Julian replied. Odo lifted the runabout off the pad and set a course for earth. Julian took a deep breath and let it out slowly. "Are you alright doctor?" Odo asked.

Julian nodded. "I'm fine. It's not every day you leave a place knowing you'll never return." He caught Odo's glare and sighed. "I'm sorry constable."

"No need to apologize doctor. I'm just surprised. Most humans would consider a statement a jinx'."

Julian laughed wryly. "Unfortunately, I don't think a jinx is the worst of our worries."

*******

Julian paced the small area in the back of the runabout. They were less than ten minutes from earth and so far things had been going well. Although they had been ordered to keep radio silence the trip out, Julian felt convinced he would have known if the station had undergone its foreseen fate. Odo sent an impatient glare over his shoulder. "Would you please stop pacing?"

Julian glanced at him and dropped into a chair. "I'm sorry Odo. I'm just nervous."

Odo grunted and shrugged. "Do you think Necheyev would mind if I contacted spacedock to let them know we're arriving?"

Julian chuckled softly. "I suppose not." Odo signaled Starbase 1 and received a reply saying that they were expected. Julian sighed and stood back up, gathering his things. They arrived at spacedock and Bashir waited impatiently for docking procedures to finish. He practically bolted off the runabout the second he could, Odo a relieved step behind. They were met by a young ensign who looked fresh from the Academy. "Sir," he snapped, looking half a step from saluting. Julian raised an eyebrow. "Admiral Necheyev asked me to meet you here, sir. She's presently in a meeting about a counterstrike against the Dominion."

Bashir and Odo exchanged a nervous look. "Counterstrike?" Odo asked.

The ensign turned to Odo. "Yes, sir. To take back the station sir."

Julian paled. "What?"

"Deep Space Nine was taken by the Dominion two days ago, sir. You must have heard about that."

"We were ordered to maintain radio silence, ensign," Odo snapped.

Julian managed to shake the shock off and turned an angry glare to the ensign. "Report," he snapped, not caring if he sounded like a drill sargent. The ensign struggled to maintain his composure under the double force from both Odo and Bashir. "Two days ago, Deep Space Nine was attacked and commandeered by a Dominion strike force. Star Fleet is presently considering a counterstrike . . ."

Julian waved that off. "No, no. Were there any casualties?"

"I don't have that information sir," the ensign managed to squeak out. "I simply know what Admiral Necheyev told me."

Julian ran a hand through his dark hair, wishing for all the world he could reach someone's mind. "Alright."

"Admiral Necheyev asked me to escort you to a meeting room. She said she'd join you as soon as possible."

Julian motioned for the ensign to lead them and did a gentle probe of the Starbase. He found Necheyev's mind and sent a quick message. <We're here and not particularly happy at receiving this news from a green ensign who doesn't know anything so I hope you can answer a few questions.> He detected shock from her over the link before he closed his mind off. The ensign left them in a small conference room. Julian began pacing until he felt a distinct rage approaching the room. "Necheyev's coming," he said to Odo.

She burst in the room looking ready to cut the doctor down to size until she caught sight of him. He looked, for all the world, as self possessed as a Vulcan, only without the emotional control. "I don't appreciate being interrupted, doctor," she frowned, unable to completely chew him out when he looked as miserable as he did.

"I'm sorry admiral but when Captain Sisko received your message it seemed pretty urgent."

"It was Doctor. But, as you know, something more urgent came up."

"I'd say it's all connected," Julian retorted. Odo sent a stunned look at Bashir.

Necheyev blinked in surprise. "Watch your step doctor," she said slowly. "I'm willing to forget your rather unnecessary page earlier but I won't tolerate insubordination."

Julian nodded. "I'm sorry Admiral. I'm just . . surprised would be an understatement."

The woman paused and then nodded. "Understood. Now, why don't we get down to business?"

Julian nodded and began relating everything he could remember to Necheyev. She sat, occasionally asking questions but mostly just listening. When he had finished, she sat back in her chair. "What do you think the chances are that this might change now that the Dominion knows we know about their plans to attack?"

Julian shook his head. "I don't know," he said softly. "Thus far, things don't seem to be too different."

Necheyev sighed and stood up and began to pace. "We've already launched a counter strike. We haven't had any word from them but hopefully they'll succeed in taking over DS9. That's the first step in preventing the Dominion from winning this war." Julian nodded in agreement. Necheyev glanced from him to Odo and appeared to make up her mind. "You and Odo are to leave for DS9 aboard the Phoenix. It's a new Defiant class ship, complete with a cloaking device."

Julian and Odo stood. "When do we leave?"

"In about an hour." She glanced back and forth between the two. "You understand that all of this is classified." They nodded. "Good. Dis. . ."

"Admiral!" The ensign that had escorted Bashir and Odo to the room darted in. "We've received word from the counterstrike force. They've succeeded in taking DS9 back."

Necheyev smiled. "What else?"

"There were several civilians who had been trapped on the station in the initial attack but there were no reported casualties among them."

"Good! This is excellent news. I want you to . . ."

Julian felt a vague buzzing, an almost voice, at the back of his mind. Julian reached out and managed to vaguely recognize the voice as Garak's when suddenly the room exploded in white light. He gasped and his hands shot out to the table to steady himself. He could hear Odo and Admiral Necheyev in the background asking him if he was alright but he couldn't respond. Julian choked in pain as the light intensified and suddenly was gone. Bashir felt his knees give out and he collapsed to the ground.

"DOCTOR!" Julian groaned and managed to open his eyes to find a very shocked pair of ice blue ones staring back at him. "What just happened?" she demanded.

Julian shook his head slowly. "I . . I think the station was just destroyed," he whispered.

Necheyev sat back in shock. "What makes you say that?" she asked.

Julian shook his head. "For a minute, I could have sworn I heard Garak and then there was this light . ."

"Garak?" Necheyev asked.

"The Cardassian taylor/spy who remained on the station when the Cardassians pulled out," Odo supplied. "Why Garak doctor?"

Julian shook his head in frustration. "I don't know. Maybe because no one else from DS9 was there when it exploded. Or maybe they're all dead." He struggled to his feet.

Odo glanced at Necheyev who was standing very still. "Admiral?"

"I want you and Bashir on the Phoenix immediately. I'm pushing up the departure time and changing the classification of this mission to a Priority One Emergency," she snapped. "I want to know what happened out there."

"Aye sir," Odo replied. Bashir nodded numbly and they left.

*******

Julian paced in the cramped quarters as best he could. Odo was sitting on one of the bunks, watching him. "Doctor, either you sit down or I'm going to call Sick Bay and have you sedated," Odo growled finally.

Julian whipped a glare towards the security officer. "How on earth can you sit there so calmly when for all we know the entire command staff of DS9 is dead?"

"If that's the case, there's nothing I can do about it," Odo replied. Julian intensified his glare for half a second and collapsed into the only chair in the room. "You're right," he said after a moment, "but that still doesn't ease my mind any."

Odo sighed in frustration. "Nor does it mine doctor."

"Captain Owens to Dr. Bashir and Odo. Please report to the bridge."

Julian grunted and acknowledged the hail. "Come on," he sighed. The two of them headed out and stepped out into the familiar pattern of the bridge. "We've intercepted a distress call," Captain Owens said when he spotted them. "I thought you might like to hear it." He motioned to the lieutenant at the conn.

"This is the U.S.S. Defiant calling any Federation ship in the sector." Julian paled. "We've been attacked by the Jem'Hadar and are in need of emergency assistance. All main systems are off line and backups are failing. We have perhaps six more hours of reserve until all power is lost. Heavy casualties. . . . I repeat this is the U.S.S. Defiant . . ." The captain motioned to the conn to cut the signal and turned to Bashir and Odo. "She's located near Cardassian space. We broke radio silence to contact Star Fleet and they ordered us to their location."

Julian nodded, glancing at Odo who motioned him over. Bashir took a couple steps towards the corner Odo had stepped into. "What is it Constable?" Julian asked.

"Did you recognize the voice on the emergency beacon?" Julian paused and then shook his head. "Neither did I," Odo murmured.

"Do you think that's significant?" Julian asked quietly.

Odo glanced at him. "Doctor, we all know that there's a select crew that serves aboard the Defiant. I don't recognize that voice even though I know all the people that serve aboard it. And I never forget a voice."

Julian's frown deepened. "Neither do I," he admitted softly. "So who do you . . ."

"Approaching the last known coordinates of the Defiant," the helmsman said.

"There's nothing there, sir," the young ensign manning the sensors said.

"What do you mean it's not there?" Captain Owens said softly.

"I mean it's not . . ."

"It's a trap," Julian broke in. Captain Owens sent him an alarmed look. "How do you know?" he demanded.

"Sir! Sensors are indicating a Jem'Hadar task force heading this way!"

"Shields up! Red alert. All hands to battle . . ." The ship shook as phasers raked across her bow. Julian stumbled slightly and glanced at Odo.

"Shields to 80%!" the helmsman called out.

"Fire phasers!" The shots lanced out across the lead ship's shields.

"Direct hit. Minimal damage."

Julian watched the battle with a sense of detachment. If the message wasn't from the Defiant, what had happened to her. Julian reached out with his mind, trying to find a familiar pattern. Perhaps they were here . . .

Julian gasped in shock as someone latched onto his mind. He struggled back, trying to force his shields up when he felt the familiar sensation of a transporter. . .

. . . And found himself staring down the barrel of a Jem'Hadar phaser riffle.

*******

Odo stared at the spot Bashir just vacated in shock. "Where is he?" he demanded.

The young ensign stuttered. "G-g-gone!"

Odo got right in the Ensign's face. "Well get him back!"

"I can't....Um...I can't find the pattern..."

"The Dominion" Owens whispered.

*******

Bashir found himself flanked by two Jem'Hadar soldiers. A Vorta walked towards him, an odd smile on his face.

"Welcome to the Dominion, doctor. I hope you have a pleasant stay..." Weyoun narrowed his eyes.

Bashir suddenly felt a burning agony in his brain. He tried to back away from the source, from Weyoun, but the Jem'Hadar held him in place. The pain intensified. His knees began to buckle and his muscles convulsed.

"How do you like the psionic blast, Doctor?" Weyoun challenged. "Not very comfortable is it?"

"Go..go to hell..." Bashir managed to get out, before the waves of pain took him under.

*******

He woke up on an exam table. His head was filled with an odd buzzing, and his eyes felt gummed together. He couldn't move his arms or his legs. He felt a familiar presence above him, not a friendly one.

"Take it slow..." the voice murmured. "You're still recovering from the blast..."

<Zimmerman!!!> Bashir opened his eyes wide. The coy doctor was standing above him, smugly. "You..." He tried to move, but found himself restrained.

"I'm glad to see you recognized me...I'm sure you're wondering why I'm here..."

Bashir stared at Zimmerman in shock. He nodded slowly.

"Well, It's quite simple really. When the Dominion took DS9, I got trapped on it. I knew that if the station was ever taken back, I'd be sent back to earth for trial so I offered my services to the Dominion."

Julian felt his hatred for the man double. "You sold out," he spat.

"Such limited thinking," Zimmerman scoffed. "I offered my services to those who appreciate them." Zimmerman turned away from Bashir to work on something at a side bench. "The founders are most grateful for the information I have been supplying them with."

Julian struggled against his bonds, testing them. He heard Zimmerman sigh in disgust. "Doctor, I had ample time to study your strength on the station. Trust me, you won't be able to get free."

"I managed last time," Julian shot back. Unfortunately, it seemed he was right. Julian didn't think he'd be able to get out.

"Well," Zimmerman said congenially, "why don't we get started, hmm?" He turned around, a familiar device in his hand. Julian felt the blood drain from his face in horror and began struggling again. "I see you recognize this," Zimmerman said, patting the neurogun.

"Stay away from me," Julian hissed, his eyes locked on the device. "That thing nearly killed me the last time."

Zimmerman sighed in disgust. "Please, doctor. Do we have to have such displays? You of all people must recognize the advantage of studying an oddity."

Julian felt his blood boil at that. "I'm NOT an oddity for you to study, dammit. I'm a human being!"

Zimmerman frowned impassively and lifted the neurogun to Julian's temple. "I'm afraid I don't agree with you."

Julian let out a slight cry as his world disintegrated into pain.

*******

O'Brien was standing outside the Warp Core Chamber when it happened. Barclay, just transferred from Jupiter Station, had handed him a spanner when he felt a burning pain in the back of his head.

<Miles....>

"Chief, are you allright?" Barcaly touched O'Brien's shoulder, concerned.

"Yeah..yeah...Fine." O'Brien tried to get back to work.

*******

Bashir's eyes snapped open. Zimmerman was leaning over him, adjusting one of the restraints.

He stared at Zimmerman, oddly. He'd felt something when he'd been connected with Miles. That he might have been able to control him. He wondered if he could do that here.

Zimmerman felt Bashir's eyes on him, and turned back, leaving the strap somewhat loose. "What, might I ask, do you find so interesting?"

He felt Bashir's hand shift, and touch his. Bashir couldn't get out, but he could still shift his weight.

Bashir felt dazed, and he imagined Zimmerman did too.

<Lewis....I want you to let me go....>

Zimmerman stared at Bashir in amusement. "What on earth are you talking about?" he scoffed. "I'll do no such . . ."

<Lewis . .> Julian strugled to concentrate, searching the man's mind for what he wanted. <Lewis, let me go. I can do more good for the Dominion if I'm free . .> A-ha!' Julian mentally crowed to himself. <Think about it> he purred. <Someone with my abilities, fighting with the founders? The only two humans to be in control.> He pressed against a part of Zimmerman's mind, hoping this would work.

"You . . you have a point," Zimmerman murmured, loosening the restraints.

Julian quickly scanned Zimmerman's mind to see how true his alliance was with the dominion while keeping the pressure on. <And why stop there?> he sent, sitting up. <Between the two of us, we could take over this ship. I can take care of most anyone who crosses us, including the founders.> His hand slid slowly to a hypo he had seen Zimmerman fill with a sedative. Zimmerman nodded numbly, setting down the neurogun. Julian's hand closed around the hypo and quickly injected it into Zimmerman. He noted with satisfaction as Zimmerman slumped over. "Bastard," Julian muttered, tossing the hypo aside and slipping carefully into the corridor. He knew he had locked onto O'Brien's mind earlier. If only he could do it again. 'Or Jadzia,' he thought, mentally praying she was alright.

*******

Jadzia sat in front of O'Brien, carefully tending to his burns. "How are the repairs on the warp core going?" she asked quietly.

"Slowly," O'Brien sighed. "Aaa!" he gasped as Dax's hands gently brushed against a burn.

"Sorry," Dax murmured, brushing a lock of hair out of her face. She rubbed the back of her arm across her eyes and continued working on O'Brien. At the moment, she was acting Captain, Tactical officer and Chief Medical Officer all roled into one. On top of helping with repairs, she hadn't slept in three days.

"Sir," O'Brien said softly. "If you don't mind me saying so, you look like hell."

Dax laughed mirthlessly. "I feel like hell," she admitted. She sat back and scanned O'Brien. "Alright," she said. "You're free to go again. Just take it easy so those can heal."

O'Brien grunted. "Yeah, right," he muttered. "Take it easy she says." He shook his head. "Not a bad idea considering I'm hearing things."

"What are you talking about?" Dax said, picking up the instruments she had taken out of the medkit.

O'Brien glanced at her sheepishly. "It's nothing. It's just my mind playing tricks on me." He caught the frown she gave him and sighed. "I could have sworn I heard Julian earlier." He saw Dax's eyes mist over slightly and he bit his toung. "I'm sorry, Dax," he said. They hadn't heard what had happened to Bashir or Odo yet.

Dax shook her head, forcing a smile onto her face. "It's okay Chief. I'm fine. I just wish we knew something . . ."

<Jadzia?>

Dax dropped the kit, startling O'Brien. "Julian?" she whispered.

*******

Julian froze, both physically and mentally as three Jem'Hadar passed his hiding spot. He could feel his heart pounding, whether from fear or delight he couldn't tell. He had been able to find Jadzia, which meant she was alive. He watched as the patrol passed out of his sight and waited a few seconds before trying again. He reached out and immediately locked onto her mind. <Jadzia?> he called out.

<Julian? No, it can't be. How could I be hearing him.>

<Dax, it's me> he said.

<JULIAN!> He could feel the extreme relief pouring from her. <Oh, gods, you're alive!>

<Yeah. I'm alive. Glad to see you are too> he sent affectionately. He pulled himself together. <Jadzia, I need help. I'm trapped on a Jem'Hadar ship.>

<What? Oh, Julian. How did that happen?>

<I was sent back from earth with Odo when I . . felt the station being destroyed.>

<Oh, love> Dax murmured, interrupting him.

<Jadzia . . . In any case, we ran into a Jem'Hadar patrol. They beamed me off the Phoenix . . Zimmerman's here.> He felt her start in anger. <It's okay. I managed to get loose. But I need to get out of here.>

<How?>

Julian swallowed. <I was hoping you would have an idea . . how bad a shape is the Defiant in?>

<Pretty bad. Miles is working on the engines but . . I don't know how soon we'll be able to go anywhere, much less stage a rescue.> He felt her hesitate for a second. <I don't know . . .>

Julian's eyes shut. <Alright. If you can get out here . .>

<Julian, where's here?>

Julian closed his eyes and pulled away from her slightly. He reached out and found the navagator. Picking their location from his mind, Julian sent it to Jadzia. <How's that for service?>

<Remind me to thank you properly when you get back> she sent. Julian shook his head. <You stay put> she said. <If we don't get to you, someone else will.>

<I'll be waiting> he sent and gently pulled away.

*******

Weyoun and Zimmerman stood in front of the female founder, listening to her instructions.

"First and foremost," she spat, glaring at Zimmerman, "since you were the one to let him go, you'll be the one to find him. _If_ you find him, I'll let you live. Now hurry. He's been lose on the ship for over three hours!"

Zimmerman nodded, flushing with fear and anger. He stalked out, followed by Weyoun. "Well," Weyoun said, "I think she was most agreable."

Zimmerman stared at him in shock. "Agreable?" he snapped. "She threatened to have me killed if we didn't find that Bashir."

Weyoun glanced at him. "You're lucky she didn't kill you where you stood. Failure is not looked lightly upon in the Dominion, Doctor."

Zimmerman sighed. "So how do you propose we find him?"

"Oh, it can't be too difficult," Weyoun said. "He's only a human."

"No he's not. He's a genetic abomination." Zimmerman glared at the Vorta. "Fine. If you're so confident, _you_ find him."

Weyoun smiled dangerously.

*******

Weyoun sat at the table, waiting for Zimmerman to finish filling the hypospray which would send him deep into a psychic fugue state. He felt the hypo against his neck, and everything went black.

*******

Bashir leaned against the wall, his eyes closed, trying to rest. His mind focused on the silence of this ship. The quiet. Suddenly, he felt a stabbing pain in his medula oblongata. He could feel Weyoun searching him mind. Trying to pinpoint his location, trying to hurt him....

"No....No." he doubled over, trying to block him out. Unconsciously, he threw out a psionic blast.

*******

Dax looked up from her console, surprised at the sudden wave of panic she felt. "Julian...."

<Jadzia...help me....>

That was the last thing she heard before everything went black.

*******

Julian groaned softly as a bright light was shined into his eyes. "Welcome back, Doctor," Zimmerman scoffed. "I applaud you on your earlier attempt to escape but, in all honesty, where did you think you were going to get to?" Julian squinted into the light, keeping quiet. He was rewarded with a sharp stab of pain. Bashir gasped and strugled to move away from the source but realized almost immediately he was restrained. Several agonizing moments later, the pain was removed. Julian lay gasping for several moments, trying to breathe normally. "Well?" Zimmerman spat.

Julian took a ragged breath and managed to get out, "I thought it was rhetorical." He was rewarded with another bolt of pain. "Wrong answer," Zimmerman said, his voice clinical.

"Sorry," Julian murmured. Again his world disintegrated into pain. "What was that for?" he choked out as soon as he could.

Zimmerman didn't reply. Julian sucked in air while he could. He kept his eyes closed and tried to reach out mentally. A wall of fire spread through his mind as it did so and Julian cried out in pain. "Oh, did I fail to mention that if you try to use your telepathy, you will receive a direct neural shock?"

"Yes," Julian hissed. Zimmerman smiled slightly and glanced at the Founder. "Now, doctor. Let's talk about what Star Fleet plans to do in retaliation to the Dominion."

"I don't know," Julian murmured. He felt the pain rip through him again. He could localize it this time, originating against his left side.

"That's not true doctor. You came from Starbase 1 after meeting with Admiral Necheyev. What happened?"

"I don't know," Julian moaned. "She didn't say." This time the pain started on his right side. Julian groaned. "I don't know," he murmured. "I swear it."

"I don't believe you doctor," Zimmerman snapped. "But, perhaps if you're left to think about it for awhile . ." Julian felt the lights over him intensify until he could see the after image through his lids. "Perhaps you'll remember something." Julian heard a door slide open and shut again.

*******

Dax sat very still as O'Brien ran a tricorder over her. "Well, you look okay," he said after a moment.

"I'm fine," she whispered, strugling to fight back tears.

"So, what happened?" O'Brien crouched down in front of her.

Dax took a shaky breath. "I felt this . . wave of panic wash over me and then I heard Julian . ." She paused, her voice catching. "He was asking me to help him. And he was terrified." She glanced at O'Brien, who looked rattled. "Something's happened to him Chief. They either found him again or he's . . ." She trailed off, her eyes misting over.

O'Brien shook his head vehemently. "Don't think like that. He's probably just fine."

"Chief, I _heard_ him. I could feel what he was feeling. I'm not making this up. How can you say he's fine if they found him?"

O'Brien took a deep breath. "Well, you said Zimmerman was there. If that's the case, they're probably taking somewhat good care of him."

"Zimmerman probably has him playing lab rat," Dax spat out. "If they already haven't killed him for trying to escape."

O'Brien stood up and tapped his commbadge. "O'Brien to Barclay."

"Barclay here," came the response.

"Reg, how are repairs going?"

"Well, we've gotten the deflectors mostly repaired. They're at 70% operation. The phasers are still a long ways from being finished. The warp matrix is at thirty percent."

"Step up the work on the phaser emitters and make the warp matrix your top priority. We need to get this ship battle ready as soon as possible."

"Aye sir." O'Brien cut the connection and turned back to Dax. "We aren't just going to leave him," he said, his voice deathly quiet. "Not now."

*******

Julian had a feeling he would have cut off his right arm for a glass of water at this point. He had no idea how long Zimmerman had kept him here. The lights were incredibly bright, biting through Julian's closed eyelids, burning his retinas with afterimages. They were also incredily hot. The last time Julian felt this hot was the bit of survival training all Star Fleet officers had to go through. They had hauled a group of young doctors-to-be out to death valley and let them loose. Julian had hated it. It had been easily 150 that day and by midday, when they finally found some shelter from the hot sun, as they knew they'd never survive in that heat during the noon hour, Julian and most of the other men in the group had striped down to the bare necesities. And they all ended up with the most painful sunburns for that. Right then, though, Julian would have loved to at least lose the wool jacket of his uniform.

"How are we doing?" came a cheerful voice. Julian winced as the sound rattled off the back of his skull. "A little hot in here, isn't it?" It took Julian until then to realize it was Weyoun talking. Julian felt the lights turn off and breathed a sigh of relief. He had begun to think he was halucinating, seeing the negative images of his friends on his eyelids, dancing before him but slipping away before he could focus on them. "Can I get you anything?" Weyoun asked.

Julian briefly considered telling him to go to hell rather than asking for water but the latter won out. Besides, he had a feeling that if he turned Weyoun down, he'd either turn the lights back on or the pain would return. "Water." Julian was stunned at the quality of his own voice. It was scratchy and gravelly.

"One moment." Julian heard the whine of a replicator and felt something poke the corner of his mouth. A straw,' he realized. He gratefully drank, gulping down the refreshingly cool beverage. When he had finished, he heard Weyoun move away. "You realize," he said congenially, "that you are providing the most fascinating data? It's amazing. Although you're a bit dehydrated, your electrolyte levels are still stable, for the most part. On top of that . . ."

"Data?" Julian choked out.

"Why yes," Weyoun said. "You didn't honestly think we'd let this opportunity go to waste, even though it's not our main objective. Which brings me back to the original topic of earlier."

"I swear," Julian gasepd. "I don't know anything. I was only on Starbase One to speak with Necheyev about . ." He paused, wondering if he should tell him. He felt a brief stab of pain radiate through him. "About what?" Weyoun purred. <Oh, bloody hell> Julian thought. <He already knows> "About the visions I had been having. You know about those."

"Ahh. And what did Star Fleet decide to do about that doctor?"

"They sent Odo and myself back to DS9, having recieved word that Star Fleet had taken it back. Until I felt it blow up. Then, we were sent to investigate."

Weyoun leaned closer. "You felt the station blow up?" he asked very quietly.

Julian was begining to recover his sight. He glanced up and saw Weyoun's shape leaning over him. "Yes," Julian said.

Weyoun stared in shock and suddenly lanced out with the pain stick he and Zimmerman had been using. Julian let out a cry of pain. "Don't lie to me doctor," Weyoun growled, pressing harder, causing Bashir to writhe a bit. "No one could feel a station blow up that's clear across the quadrant." With a final stab he let up. "NOW, what did Star Fleet decide?"

Julian choked incoherently over the words. He didn't know what he could do to stop Weyoun or Zimmerman but at that moment, he would have given almost anything to do just that. He heard Weyoun sigh with disgust. "I don't see why you insist on making this more difficult than it already is doctor. If you'd just tell us what we want to know, this would all end." Julian shook his head, hoping Weyoun would finally understand he didn't know anything. "Fine," the Vorta spat. "If you want to be difficult. Computer, lower room temperature to pre-specified temperature." Once again Julian heard the door open and close. <No such luck> he thought mororsely as a biting chill ran through him.

*******

"Report," Dax snapped, walking onto the bridge.

"Navigation check. Cloak operational within standard parameters. Phasers at 85%. Torpedoes at 70%. Warp engines at 85%. Sheilds at 95%. Deflector grid at 80%," Barclay glanced up at Dax.

She nodded slowly. "Alright. Helm. Set a course for the Cardassian boarder, as fast as she'll safely go. Engage cloak. Mr. Barclay, keep an eye on that cloak. Keep it within the standard range. If they see through the cloak, we're dead. Mr. O'Brien,"

"Aye commander?"

"Continue working on the Torpedoes and the deflector grid."

"Aye sir."

Dax sank down into the Captain's chair, feeling a pang of sadness. Dax pushed it back quickly. <There'll be time for that later> she thought. She turned her thoughts forward. Now that they were on their way, she needed a plan. "Dax to O'Brien."

"Go ahead commander."

"Can I have a word with you chief?"

"I'll be right up."

Dax nodded and cut the connection. <Hang on Julian.>

*******

Julian shivered constantly, an attempt on his body's part to keep him warm. Unfortunately, it wasn't doing him a bit of good. Bashir struggled to take a breath in the bitterly cold air and coughed explosively. "Oh, ththththa-a-at-t-t h-huuu-r-r-t-t-t," he chattered. He swallowed slightly. <Gods, I give up. I don't know what they want and they won't stop till they get it,> Julian thought miserably. <And, even if I did tell them, I'd outlive my usefulness. Either way I'll end up dead.>

<What about Jadzia?> another part of his mind asked.

<She probably won't get here in time> the pessimist replied. <She said the Defiant was in bad shape. I might as well just give up.>

<You don't want to do that> the other voice whispered. <You know that they'd never give up on you so why should you give up on them? Besides, you can't give up now. Not with the promise of being with Jadzia.>

For once, the pessimist in himself was silent.

*******

Weyoun watched the young doctor through the observation window. He appeared to be suffering from severe shock. And the cold probabaly wasn't helping much either. Weyoun grinned evilly.

*******

Dax sat in the captain's chair as the ship slowly approached the Jem'Hadar one. She watched the viewscreen, which had a readout of the ship's schematics on it.

"Scan the ship for human life signs..."she said to Barclay.

Barclay spun, shocked. "Are you out of your fucking mind?" he choked out in horror. "They'll know exactly where we are then." Barclay suddenly realized he had cursed at a commanding officer and flushed a bright red. "S-ss-sir," he squeeked out.

Dax stared at him, shocked that he had swore like that but moreso that she actually gave that order. Dax paled and shook her head. "I'm sorry Mr. Barclay. You're correct. Belay that order." She offered him a smile. "Relax Reg. It's okay for now." The man visibly relaxed and managed a shaky smile. Dax caught O'Brien glancing at her concerned. "Chief?" she asked, knowing what he was going to say.

"Commander, it may be none of my business but perhaps you should let someone else command this mission. A mistake like that . . . ."

Dax paused and then shook her head. "No. I'm alright. But we do need a plan. Ideas Chief?"

O'Brien sat back, mulling over the possibilities. "We can't scan the ship, that's for sure. We need another way to locate him."

"Dr. Bashir's telepathic, correct?" Barclay spoke up. Dax nodded. "Why can't he just contact us?"

"We have reason to believe that the Jem'Hadar have recaptured him. We have to assume they're blocking his telepathic eminations." Dax frowned, not wanting to dwell on just how they might be doing that.

Barclay pursed his lips. "Is anyone on the Defiant telepathic? He should still be able to receive messages." Dax and O'Brien stared at him and he flushed. "I, ah, did a little research into it before seeing Councilor Troi while on board the Enterprise."

Dax nodded, not seeing the look that crossed O'Brien's face. "Unfortunately, I can't think of anyone that is," she said softly.

O'Brien glanced at her. "Commander, aren't Joined Trills telepathic with eachother?"

Dax frowned at him, wondering what he was driving at. "Yes and no," she said slowly. "Joined Trills can communicate non-verbally with eachother but that's due to the symbiont. Why?"

"Would it be possible to boost the electrochemical eminations to psionic waves to reach Julian?" He directed this last question to Barclay.

Barclay frowned. "Theoretically, yes. As long as Bashir has already communicated with the commander. We could simply create a device that would increase the frequency and shorten the wavelenght of the pulses to the proper frequency of psionic waves."

Dax stared in shock for a moment. "At what risk to the symbiont?" she asked, her training kicking in over her rising hope.

O'Brien and Barclay glanced at eachother. "Well," Barclay said slowly, "There'd be some risk involved but we can monitor you and stop things if it looks like its going to harm you permenantly.

Dax glanced at O'Brien, who nodded his agreement. "Let's do it," she said.

*******

Julian lay still, thinking warm thoughts. Being in Mexico with some Academy friends, Death Valley, holding Jadzia . . . . Julian allowed a slight smile to cross his face at that thought. He imagined her curled close to him under several comforters, a fire roaring in the background.

<Julian, love, you really have to develop some hobbies.> Julian gasped. <Jadzia?> he thought wildly. *******

Dax sat in the infirmary, her eyes shut tight as she concentrated. She felt him reflexively reach out to her and both their worlds disintegrated into pain. Dax cried out and tried to pull back. <Julian> she sent, once her mind cleared. <Don't send to me. I can hear your thoughts just fine.> She could hear O'Brien murmuring in the background, his tone concerned

<How?> he thought, careful not to think it _at_ her.

<Don't bother with that now> she sent. <Julian, where are you on this ship, do you know?>

<;Some sort of lab> Julian reflected. He could feel her anger at that. He formed a mental map of where it was in relation to where he had escaped to.

<Thank you love. I'll leave you to your fantasies now.>

Julian grinned. <Not fantasies for too long> he mulled.

Dax managed a tiny smile and drew up a mental image and sent it to him. She could feel his shocked amazement and before he could respond, Dax's consciousness was dragged back to the Defiant with a gut wrenching speed. She collapsed onto the biobed as a medtech administered a hypo. "What happened?" she panted.

"You're isoboromine levels were dropping. We had to cut the link," the tech replied.

O'Brien glanced at her. "Did you get where he is?" he asked. "Is he alright?"

Dax shook her head slowly, trying to clear it. "I think I can pinpoint where he is. I don't know how he is though . . . ." She sat up as O'Brien produced a padd with the schematic she had been studying earlier. Dax took it and quickly scanned it, moving through the mental map Julian had sent her. "He should be here," she said, pointing to one room. O'Brien nodded and moved to talk with Barclay as Dax leaned back against the wall, recovering.

*******

Julian's mind was whirling with what just happened. He couldn't explain how Jadzia had been able to reach him. She isn't telepathic,' he thought frantically. Is she?'

He was startled out of his thoughts when the door opened revealing two large Jem'Hadar and Weyoun. "Well, doctor. Have you decided to cooperate yet?"

Julian felt all the blood drain from his face as they stepped in, the door sliding shut behind them. Weyoun smiled evilly.

*******

Dax paced around the bridge. "Dax to O'Brien."

"O'Brien here."

"You ready at the transporters Chief? We need one of your famous fixes."

"Absolutely commander."

Dax turned to Barclay. "Leiutenant, cooperate with Mr. O'Brien. I want minimal exposure while we're beaming Dr. Bashir on board."

"Aye sir."

"Tactical, be prepared to raise shields after we beam Bashir in. Not before, however."

"Aye sir."

Dax sat down in the command chair and took a deep breath. "Ready gentlemen?" She was rewarded with attentive silence. "Mr. Barclay, deactivate the cloak." The lighting on the Defiant went to normal. "Mr O'Brien . . ."

"Scanning for a lock . . ."

*******

Julian grunted as the Jem'Hadar secured his hands behind him. He glared at Weyoun. "I don't know what you want from me. I'm telling you the truth. I don't know what Star Fleet has planned."

Weyoun circled him dangerously. "Don't cross me doctor. They can snap your neck in a second and will do so if you don't give me my answer."

Julian hedges, allowing indecision to show on his face. He saw Weyoun raise the pain stick threateningly.

*******

"O'Brien?" Dax asked, allowing a bit of nervousness to enter her voice. Sparks flew from one of the consoles.

"Ablative armour holding," someone called out.

"Almost commander. There seems to be two Jem'Hadar standing in close proximity to him. It's difficult to get a clean lock."

"Hurry up," she said as another phaser blast struck. "Return fire," she shouted.

*******

Julian eyed the staff through teary eyes as Weyoun pulled it back. "Allright," he gasped. "I'll tell you what I know. Just tell them to let go of my arms."

Weyoun smiled triumphantly and motioned for the Jem'Hadar to let go. They stepped back and Julian doubled over, catching his breath. Weyoun frowned. "Doctor? I'm waiting." Julian motioned for him to wait a moment. "Let . . let me c-collect my . . thoughs." <Come ON Dax,> he urged.

*******

"I've got a lock!" O'Brien shouted over the comm.

"Energize!" Dax shouted as he said "Energizing."

*******

Weyoun lashed out with the pain stick as Bashir dematerialized in front of him. "WHAT?!" he roared. "Where did he go?"

*******

Julian rematerialized in the transporter room of the Defiant. He managed a thin smile at O'Brien and tried to straighten up but ended up collapsing.

"I've got him commander," O'Brien said, moving to his friend's side.

"Good." Miles could clearly hear the relief in her voice.

"O'Brien to Sick Bay. Medical emergency in the transporter room." He knelt next to Julian, who had pulled himself to the wall to sit up slightly. "How do you feel?" he asked the younger man.

Julian glanced up and managed a smile. "About two hundred percent better." Miles grinned in response as a medical tech ran in with an anti grav.

*******

Dax's hands tightened on the arms of her seat as the Defiant struggled to shake the Dominion ship. "Helm, evaisive pattern Omega. And then head for the D'Tari Nebula, maximum warp."

"Aye sir." Dax felt the ship angle sharply and then straighten out.

"Once at the nebula, cloak just as we're about to enter out of their sensors and swing around."

"Aye sir," the helmsman said, his hands flying over the controls. Dax was rattles slightly by a glancing blow from the ship. "How close?" she demanded.

"Thirty seconds sir."

"Drop out of warp," Dax said. She felt the powerful engines slow.

"Entering nebula now."

"Engage cloak," Dax said. "Swing us about slowly. Barclay, start rerouting our heat exhaust. I don't want an inkling for them to detect."

"Aye sir," the response came.

"Set a course for the most direct route into Federation space and then a course for Earth."

"Aye sir."

Dax glanced around. "Tactical, any sign that the Dominion ship detects us?"

"No sir. They're scanning the nebula."

"Distance from nebula?"

"Three hundred kilometers and growing."

"Mr. Barclay, how's our rerouting working."

"Perfectly," came the response. "We should be able to keep this up for another three hours."

"Time to Federation space at maximum warp?"

"Two hours sir."

Dax nodded and sighed. "Good. Mr. Barclay, you have the bridge. I've got a Chief Medical Officer to check up on. Call me if you need me."

"Aye sir," Barclay nodded, taking the seat she vacated. Dax stepped into the turbolift and sagged against the wall. <I need sleep> she thought.

*******

O'Brien glanced at his friend worriedly as Dax strode into Sickbay. She gasped in shock at the sight of Bashir's haggard form. "Julian," she murmured, moving to his side. She could see several bruises along his rib cage. His skin was blistered in some spots and frostbit in others. He glanced up at her and smiled. "Hey," he whispered, reaching for her hand.

Dax gently tightened her fingertips around his, one hand gently brushing at his hair. "Dear lord, you look worse than I do," she said softly, eying him with a maternal gaze.

"Then I must look pretty good cause you're the best thing I've seen in days," he replied, closing his eyes. Dax shook her head and smiled slightly. "Or is it weeks?" Julian murmured, suddenly glancing up at her.

Dax gently smoothed his hair back. "Worry about that later," she said, resting a steadying hand on the biobed as the world swam a bit. "Just rest now."

"That goes for you too Commander," the Medtech, scanning her with a tricorder. "You're suffereing from extreme exhaustion and slight malnutrition."

Julian glanced at her in suprise. "I'm gone for how long and you work yourself into such a state already?"

Dax felt a wearyness fill her and she glanced down. "I've been very busy trying to keep things running here," she said softly. She glanced at O'Brien, who was gazing at the floor. "We've lost a lot of people," she whispered.

Julian gently tightened his grip on her hand, suddenly fearing the worst. Before he could say anything, his assistant reappeared. "Either the two of you get some sleep, or I'll sedate you both."

Dax glanced up and nodded. She turned to O'Brien. "Let me know if anything happens."

"Of course," he said. He sent a half hearted smile to Bashir and walked out. Jadzia turned back to him and gently kissed his forehead. "I'm glad you're back," she whispered.

"It's good to be back," he replied, searching for her mouth. Dax kissed him tenderly for several moments before pulling back. "I'll be back soon," she whispered.

Julian nodded and watched her leave before drifting off.

*******

Dax closed her eyes for the first time in days and streched out on the small bunk. She shifted towards the wall. "Computer, lights out." The room was pitched into blackness and Dax sighed in relief. Her joined minds reeled over the last three days and she felt an infinite sorrow build up in her chest. Dax let out a shaky breath and gave in to her tears. She sobbed softly into her pillow, cursing every single being of the Dominion. Not only had they abducted and tortured the sweetest man she had ever known but they had taken a dear friend of two lifetimes away from her. Dax always knew she would outlive Benjamin Sisko and knew it would probably happen in Jadzia's lifetime but she hadn't prepared herself for the possibility of it happening so soon.

She nearly jumped a foot when she felt a gentle hand rest on her shoulder. She glanced up and saw Julian kneeling next to her bunk. "Julian," she whispered thickly, brushing at her tears. "What are you doing here? You should be in Sickbay."

"I managed to convince Ensign Yohannsen to let me go back to my quarters after he finished with most of my injuries." He paused awkwardly. "I could feel you . . ." his voice trailed off, a sadness filling his eyes.

Dax leaned against him, curling close. "I can't believe he's gone," she whispered. "I knew this would happen sometime in my life but never . . ." Her voice cracked. Julian held her close, gently rocking her. "I know," he whispered. Dax sobbed softly against his shoulder. Julian held her for several minutes, allowing his own tears of greif to fall. He had admired Sisko, considered him a second father. Julian's mind drifted a bit until something hit him. "Jadzia, where's Kira? Don't tell me that she . . . ."

Dax shook her head. "I don't know," she whispered. "Kira went to Bajor to fight in the Resistance."

Julian nodded in relief, although the thought that his home for the last four years had been destroyed just added to his sense of loss. He leaned against the wall behind the bunk, mentally comforting Jadzia and himself at the same time until they both fell asleep.

Head back to the fanfic page.