This is the sequel to the first story (hence the title). It deals with the aftermath of the first story and the aftermath of "Dr. Bashir, I Presume." I refuse to believe that the entire station completely and totally accepted the news without any sort of trepidation. This is my interpretation of what they didn't show in television. It is most definitely NOT canon. Paramount would never do this in a million years. A bit of a warning. Garak fans might be offended with his character. Personally, I love Garak but what I did makes the story work (otherwise it would come off half hearted using anyone else).

Biggest change from canon is that Julian Bashir and Jadzia Dax are involved in a monogamous relationship with each other. Also, I don't have any Klingons living on the station in this story (or at least they aren't mentioned).

Rating would be PG-13 for violence and implied sex between two consenting adults. I wouldn't say that this story is very "dark" but it does deal with some adult issues (blackmail, deceit, treachery, sex, fights, and racism/prejudice).

All characters are the property of Paramount. They are Benjamin Sisko, Major Kira, Worf, Odo, Miles O'Brien, Jadzia Dax, Julian Bashir, Garak, and Quark. I'm just borrowing them for my own personal use in this story. However, the story and situations therein are mine. Comments are more than welcome. Please ask me first before sending this story to someone else, though. All quotes used at the beginning of the chapters, with the exception of the Epilogue, are property of Charles Hart and Richard Stilgoe (copyright by The Really Useful Group P.L.C.). "The Phantom of the Opera" is property of Sir Andrew Lloyd Weber, based on the novel by Gaston Leroux. The final quote is from the novel "Le Fantome de l'Opera" by Gaston Leroux. No copyright infringement was intended.

I think that's all. Enjoy!

"Truth be Told: the Sequel"

by Catherine Henke

Chapter 1

"Past the point of no return - no backward glances: the games we've played till now are at an end." -"Phantom of the Opera" Sir A.L. Weber "Past the Point of No Return"

"They know."

Jadzia started, her hands tightening on his. Julian sighed. "It appears that they decided to do a little digging into my past. I guess they don't take too well to blackmail."

Jadzia gazed at him. "What are they going to do?"

Julian took a deep breath. "For starters, they want that confession back."

"Julian, send it to Star Fleet. They already know about you. If they find out that Trillian is trying to blackmail one of their officers . . . "

"He said that any attempt to contact Star Fleet or the Federation Council would result in the widespread knowledge of my genetic enhancements. Which would probably put an end to my career." Julian shook his head.

"Let's go talk to Benjamin," Jadzia said, gently brushing his cheek with her hands. He gazed at her and nodded.

*******

"They *what*?!?" Sisko shouted. Jadzia had started to pace angrily.

Julian sighed. "They are requesting the PADD that I obtained . . . "

"I *heard* you the first time, doctor. And if I don't agree . . . "

"The entire Alpha quadrant finds out about me. And the fact that Star Fleet is trying to cover it up. And Jadzia would have to be reposted if I'm not discharged . . . "

Sisko spun to face Dax. "Where on Earth did they learn how to dig up information like this? The Obsidian Order?"

Jadzia frowned back. "I don't know. I can't believe the Commission is doing this." She glanced at Julian. He was sitting down, looking resigned. "Julian," she began, not liking the look on his face.

He held up a hand. "Don't," he said. He turned to Sisko. "The only way out of this, as far as I can see, is for me to resign from the service."

"No!" Dax protested.

Julian spun to face her. "Why not? If I'm no longer a member of Star Fleet, I'm not a threat to anyone. I'm not about to drag everyone else down with me." He turned to Sisko. "If I retire, they can't do anything to you. You'll have my withdrawal on your desk in the morning." Julian turned and walked out.

Jadzia turned to Sisko. "Benjamin," she began plaintively. "You can't just let him . . . "

He shook his head. "I'm afraid I can't do anything. Go talk to him, though. I'm not about to lose him." Jadzia nodded and darted out of his office.

*******

"You can't! Julian will you just listen to me?"

"Jadzia, this doesn't involve you."

"Like hell it doesn't!" she snapped. She walked over and grabbed his shoulders. "I'm as involved as you are." He glared defiantly at her. "Listen to me!" she cried. "I don't give a damn what the Commission says. I want to fight this."

"Fine," Julian snapped. "Go fight it. I'd rather not drag the reputation of Star Fleet through the mud, though." He walked into the bedroom. Jadzia frowned and started after him. He was standing next to the bed, sorting through some PADDs on the nightstand. She walked over and spun him around. "You're going to listen to me for once. Stop being so stubborn." Julian frowned and twisted away. Jadzia's hand reached out and caught him around the waist and she flipped him onto the bed and neatly pinned him. Before he realized what had happened, she kissed him passionately. She could feel the shock radiate through him before he relaxed. She pulled away after a moment. "Now that I have your attention," she murmured. "Just listen for a moment. I've never known you to be a quitter. It's one of the things I love the most about you. Why now? I don't understand why you would blackmail an entire society for me and just walk away when they threaten you. Or why you don't expect me to want to help you?"

His features softened slightly. "Jadzia, it's not that I'm quitting. I just can't see any other way out of this." He reached and gently brushed her cheek with his hand. "I don't want to hurt you through any of this."

She closed her eyes. "You've defended me more times than I can count. At least let me try and return the favor." She met his gaze and he sighed softly. "I can never say no to you, can I?" he asked wryly.

She grinned and kissed him. "I know," she murmured. "That's the other thing I love about you." He laughed and kissed her in return.

*******

"Well, Doctor, I didn't receive your resignation so I'm assuming you changed your mind," Sisko said, smiling slightly.

Julian smiled. "Well, someone managed to convince me otherwise." Dax smiled.

"So, do you have any idea what to do?" Sisko asked.

Julian paused and glanced at Dax. "Not yet."

*******

Julian sighed. "I can't think of anything," he murmured to Dax that evening.

She gazed at him. "Well, maybe it's time that we ask some other people for their input."

Julian started. "Jadzia, that would mean telling people about . . . "

Jadzia nodded. "I know. But if you want to get out of this, I don't see any other way."

Julian sighed and nodded. "I'll talk to Sisko and see if we can set up a staff meeting tomorrow." Jadzia nodded and gently gave his hand a squeeze.

*******

"Two nights ago, Doctor Bashir received a message from the Trill Symbiosis Commission regarding recent events taken against them, which I'm sure you're all aware of." Everyone nodded. "In response, the Commission decided to retaliate, using information from the Doctor's past. They send a list of demands to the doctor that they said must be carried out, or they would reveal the information they uncovered, which is not only damaging to the doctor, but to Star Fleet itself. You each have a copy in front of you." Most of the staff members picked it up to read. The range of emotions were typical for them. Kira was outraged. Odo looked rather disgusted and amused. O'Brien was shocked. He kept glancing from the PADD to Julian and back again. Worf simply sat and read it, although he looked as pleased as the rest of the crew. "As you can see," Sisko continued, "the requests are ridiculous and I have no desire to let them be carried out." Sisko glanced at Bashir. He simply raised an eyebrow. Yes, I understand, Captain,' he thought, amused.

"Excuse me, Captain, but what exactly could possibly be so damaging to the doctor and Star Fleet?" Kira asked.

Sisko glanced at Bashir who nodded. He took a deep breath and began to explain. "The Commission discovered that I had been genetically enhanced as a child," he began. This time, everyone's reaction was the same: complete shock. Except for O'Brien. He was just angry. Julian decided not to go into details here. If they were that curious, they could ask later. "Star Fleet decided that, in return for letting me stay in the service and keep my practice, my father would go to prison for two years. If word of this gets out, a lot of people are going to begin questioning Star Fleet."

"Which," interjected Odo, "would help the founders that much more." Julian nodded.

"So," Sisko said. "What we need is a way to convince the Commission not to keep their promises in a way that won't hurt Doctor Bashir or the Fleet. Any suggestions?"

"This may seem ridiculously obvious, and no offense doctor, but why don't you just withdraw your commission?" Kira asked.

Julian opened his mouth to answer but Sisko cut him off. "Not an option. To do so would show an exploitable weakness to the Commission." Silence fell over the table as everyone considered their options.

"Sir," Odo spoke up. "Not to seem redundant, but is it possible that the founders are behind this? With a foothold in the Alpha quadrant, it makes infiltration that much easier."

"That's a possibility, Odo. But that still leaves us with the problem of what to do about it." Silence. Julian held back a sigh. He felt Jadzia rest a hand on his knee. He glanced at her and managed a weak smile.

"Sir," Worf spoke up. "Why don't we just confront the Commission? Take the Defiant to Trillian under cloak and... talk' to them."

Sisko smiled slightly. "What exactly do you mean by talk' Mr. Worf?" Worf simply frowned. "Actually, that isn't a bad idea," Sisko mused.

*******

Julian walked out of the room and headed for the lift. "Julian!" He turned around and saw Miles heading over towards him. Julian smiled slightly. "What can I do for you Chief?" he asked as they stepped into the lift.

"Are you alright?" he asked.

Julian sighed. "Well, I had hoped to keep this quiet for a bit longer, but other than that, I'm fine."

O'Brien shook his head. "I can't believe they're doing this. This is a Federation world! How can they do this?"

Julian shook his head. "I'm not sure that they are," he admitted.

"You think Odo is right?"

"It's possible," Julian said. "Nothing makes any sense," he admitted.

O'Brien grinned slightly. "Well, Odo was right about one thing." His grin grew sinister. "It is easier for changeling infiltration." With that, he shifted shape into and thrust himself at Julian.

Chapter 2

"Past the point of no return, the final threshold - the bridge is crossed, so stand and watch it burn... We've passed the point of no return." -"Phantom of the Opera" Sir A.L. Weber "Past the Point of No Return"

Julian snapped upright, gasping. He glanced around. I'm in my quarters,' he realized. It was a dream. All a dream.' He paused remembering the transmission from two days ago. Well, almost all.'

"Julian?" came a voice. He glanced to his left and saw Jadzia stirring. "What's wrong?" she asked, her voice slightly rusty from sleep. Julian shook his head. "Nothing," he murmured, gently brushing her hair back. "Go back to sleep."

Jadzia sat up. "Does this have anything to do with Trillian demanding to have the confession back to keep them from leaking your secret?"

Julian sighed and nodded. He felt her arms snake around his waist. "It was just a nightmare that blew what happened out of proportion."

Jadzia kissed the back of his neck. "I know this hasn't been easy for you, but I'm sure it will all work out."

Julian sighed again. "Maybe you're right. Maybe I should just let people know."

Jadzia paused, gently nuzzling him. "I think that it would be best. At least tell the senior staff. This has been bothering you ever since Zimmerman found out. And I know for a fact that you've been having nightmares since Trillian revealed that it found out." She tenderly kissed him again.

He sighed softly and nodded. "Alright. I'll find a time to tell them."

Jadzia slid around so she was facing him. "There's the weekly staff meeting tomorrow. They're bound to ask exactly why Trillian wanted it back." Sisko had let the rest of the staff know what Julian had done on Trill rather than keeping it among only four members of the staff. Julian nodded and smiled softly at her. "What would I do without you?" She smiled in return and kissed him. Julian slid his arms around her and pulled her back bed. Jadzia pulled back, grinning. "You are insatiable," she teased. "Must have something to do with that genetically enhanced stamina of yours." Julian grinned and pulled her close. She kissed him passionately and he responded measure for measure.

*******

Julian sighed as he walked into the briefing room. He saw Jadzia sitting at her usual spot, chatting with Worf. Worf glanced up when Julian entered and nodded at him. Jadzia turned and smiled at him. "Hello," she said warmly.

Julian smiled at her. "Hello." He sank down in the chair next to hers. She took his hand in hers and gave it a tender squeeze. He smiled at her. They talked quietly until the rest of the staff arrived and Sisko called the meeting to order. "The first order of business today is classified," Sisko said. Julian took a deep breath. The rest of the staff perked up a bit. "The PADD obtained from the Trill Guard has been returned at their...request."

"What?" Kira gasped. "Why?"

Sisko glanced at Bashir who nodded slightly. He had told the Captain that he planned on telling the staff in case they asked questions. Julian sighed and said, "They had obtained some information about me that they used to get it back. It was also detrimental to Star Fleet."

"And that would be?" Odo asked.

Julian glanced around the table and caught O'Brien's eye. He looked shocked. Julian took a deep breath. "They found out that I had been genetically enhanced at age seven. They threatened to release this information, and the fact that Star Fleet allowed me to keep my post and practice due to a plea bargain with my father, unless we returned the signed confession to them."

"Excuse me," Kira said, shaking her head. " Genetically enhanced?' I thought that was against Federation law?"

"It is," he replied. "And my father is spending two years in a penal colony for it."

"Only two years?" Worf muttered to himself, but everyone heard it. Julian couldn't help but bristle.

"And you were admitted into Star Fleet even though..."

"I didn't include the information on my application."

"So you lied," Kira said. Julian opened his mouth to answer but Odo broke in. "This is all completely irrelevant. What are we going to do about this?"

"We already sent the PADD back to Trillian," Sisko said.

"Is there any way to get the confession back?" O'Brien asked.

"No," Julian said.

"Well, did we at least make a copy?" he pressed.

"This isn't open for discussion," Sisko said. "The PADD has already been sent to the Trill Guard. Now, onto other business."

*******

Julian sighed and walked out of the room. Jadzia walked next to him. "Are you alright?" she asked softly.

Julian glanced at her and smiled. "I'm fine. I'll see you at lunch?" She nodded. Julian walked towards the turbolift. "Doctor!" Julian turned. "Yes, Major?"

"Can I have a word with you?" she asked.

Julian raised an eyebrow and nodded. They stepped into the lift. "Promenade," Julian ordered. The lift started.

"Doctor," Kira began. "I wanted to apologize if I seemed rude at the meeting. I didn't mean to accuse you of lying."

Julian smiled. "Apology accepted, Major. Although, you're right. I did lie." The doors slid open. They stepped out of the lift. Kira shot him a look. "How come you're acting so normal?" she asked.

"How should I be acting?" he asked as they walked towards the infirmary.

"I don't know. A secret that you've been keeping for almost thirty years...."

"Actually, I only found out when I was 15," Julian corrected.

"Is now suddenly not a secret anymore," she finished. "One would think that you would be, oh, upset, stunned, nervous."

"I am," Julian said, walking into the infirmary.

"You are? You certainly aren't showing it."

Julian sighed. "That's good. The more I act like there's something bothering me, the more people will become suspicious." He glanced at her. "I'd like keep this quiet. And, since what I said was during a confidential part of the meeting, I trust it will be."

Kira smiled slightly. "Very tricky doctor. Using a confidential meeting stop gossip."

"I thought so," he smiled. "I'm glad you approve."

"Just one question, doctor."

"When you first came to this station, you weren't exactly the most confident person. Why?"

Julian grinned. "Well, I guess I was worried about my career falling apart before it started."

Kira smiled and nodded. "I understand." She walked out. Julian smiled slightly. He had a feeling things were going to be alright. Except for Worf,' he thought, remembering his comment at the meeting. He hardly looked comfortable with it.' Julian sighed. One more problem to deal with.'

*******

"I cannot believe you're actually going to continue seeing him," Worf said as their bat'telhs clanged.

"I don't see why not. And besides, I knew before I started seeing him," Jadzia retorted.

"You mean you chose him over me even though you knew he was...genetically engineered?"

"Enhanced," she corrected.

"What's the difference?" Worf bellowed.

"I guess it's how you look at it," Jadzia grunted, attempting to find a way through Worf's defenses. "And I don't see why it should make a difference."

"He's...unnatural," Worf said.

Jadzia glared at him and made a sweeping blow with her bat'telh that knocked Worf's out of his hands. In a single fluid movement, Jadzia had Worf flat on his back and her bat'telh pointed at his throat. "Perhaps. But he is who he is and I care about who him. And I hope I don't have to remind you that that information is classified and that you can't discuss it with anyone."

Worf glowered. "You do not need to remind me of my duty," he said, standing up. He grabbed his bat'telh and walked out. Jadzia sighed deeply and walked out after him.

*******

Julian was sitting at his desk when Worf stormed in, holding his bat'telh. "Is there anything I can to do for you Commander?" he asked, standing up.

Worf spat out some words in Klingonese and threw the bat'telh at Julian as Jadzia walked in. Julian caught the weapon deftly, staring at it. "You want run that by me again, Worf?"

"I have come to re-claim my right to fight for my Parmachi."

"What?" Jadzia gasped. "Worf, you gave me your word that you wouldn't."

"That word was based on lies," Worf frowned at her. "Your motive was to protect him and his secret. Now that secret is public knowledge. There is no need for further protection."

"Computer, privacy seal!" Julian snapped, setting down the bat'telh. "It is not public knowledge, commander. It was mentioned during a classified portion of the meeting."

"We only need one witness each," Worf growled. "I expect to see you at the holosuites tomorrow at 2100. Disengage the privacy seal." Julian did. With that Worf stormed out. Julian gazed at Jadzia. "So, want to be my witness?" he asked.

She sighed and shook her head. "I can't. The Parmachi is supposed to be an impartial observer."

Julian sighed and nodded. "I'll talk to Miles about it."

"Julian, you're not actually going to go through with this are you?"

"What choice do I have?" Julian hefted the bat'telh. "A fight to the death, huh? If I win, I won't kill Worf, I can tell you that right now."

Jadzia paused. "He might not give you that same courtesy," she whispered. "When we were fighting, I got the impression that he wasn't...comfortable with you being genetically enhanced."

"No kidding," Julian mumbled, setting the bulky weapon down.

"What I'm saying, Julian, is that he just might kill you because he feels it's...for the best."

Julian glanced up at her. "Well, I guess I'll just have to win."

Jadzia frowned. "Julian, I don't want to lose you."

"You won't," he said, smiling tenderly. "I'll talk to Captain Sisko about this. I'm sure he'll have a word or two for Worf about it."

Jadzia paused and then nodded. "I'll reserve a holosuite for us to practice in." He nodded. She stepped over to him and they hugged. He closed his eyes and gently kissed the top of her head. "Don't worry," he murmured. "I'll be fine." She pulled away and nodded briskly. He watched her go. He sighed. "Bashir to O'Brien."

"Go ahead, Julian."

"Could you report to the infirmary? I need to ask a favor of you...."

Chapter 3

"Hounded out by everyone! Met with hatred everywhere! No kind word from anyone! No compassion anywhere!" -"Phantom of the Opera" Sir A.L. Weber "The Labyrinth Underground"

*CRASH* "Don't drop your arm like that," Jadzia said.

Julian nodded. They had been practicing for two hours so far. Julian was getting used to the bulky instrument. "You know," he said as he deflected another of her blows. "I'm going to be incredibly sore after this." He made a feint for her right side and swept left. She managed to deflect it at the last minute.

"Well, I'll have to give you a massage later," she said. "And you're getting good."

"Thank you," he said, smiling. The locked blades for a moment before they freed themselves. Julian took advantage of her momentary imbalance and made a low attack. He knocked her legs out from underneath her and she fell flat on her back. "I had a good teacher," he said, stepping on the blade and bending down to take it from her. Within seconds, he found himself on his back with the point of a bat'telh at his throat. Julian swallowed hard. Jadzia smiled. "Never give Worf any chance to do that, and you might live."

Julian lay there for a moment, catching his breath. "Right," he murmured. After a moment he got up. "Another round?" he asked.

Jadzia stretched and went to take a long sip of water. "Give me a moment," she said, rolling her neck from one side to the other. She had landed harder than she thought. Julian walked over and began to gently massage her shoulders. "Hmmmm," she murmured happily.

Julian smiled. "Sorry about knocking you so hard."

"That's alright. Just don't feel that way tomorrow." She tilted her head to the right. Julian smiled and slid both hands over to the left side. "You're doing well with the bat'telh. But, if you both somehow lose your weapons tomorrow, you're going to have to fight bare-handed." Julian nodded. Jadzia sighed and pulled away. "Alright. Let's work on hand-to-hand combat skills." She walked back to the middle of the room. Julian followed. "The difference between fighting with a bat'telh and without is in the stance. Fighting with the bat'telh, you want to have both feet under you. You aren't necessarily concerned with speed. Especially if you're a Klingon. That's the one big advantage you'll have over Worf." She took a deep breath. "When fighting hand-to-hand, you want to remain on the balls of your feet. That allows you to keep your balance, but it also allows you to move faster."

Julian grinned. "Like tennis."

Jadzia smiled at him. "Well, let's hope your fighting skills are better than your tennis skills," she teased.

"Ouch!" he protested, his hand moving to his heart as if he'd been stabbed.

Jadzia chuckled. "Okay, seeing as you get the general gist of things," she dropped into a defensive crouch. "Defend yourself."

Julian immediately shifted his equilibrium forward. They made a few feints and partial attacks, but mostly to gauge the others response. "Now," Jadzia said. "Worf likes to take the offensive. Even if he assumes that I'm helping you, I don't think he'll change his fighting style that much."

"Good," Julian replied. "I prefer the defensive. It wears your opponent out if you're constantly letting them take the initiative."

Jadzia nodded her approval. "Alright. I'm going to try to use Worf's fighting style to give you an idea of what you're up against. However, keep in mind, I don't have his height or bulk so I'm a bit quicker, but I'm also easier to move." Julian nodded his understanding and waited for her attack. She made a feint for his chest and came in lower. Julian neatly dodged out of the way. He had hoped to roll her over his hip but he didn't have the opportunity. They sparred for several minutes, ending with Julian flipping Jadzia over his shoulder. He neatly pinned her to the ground. She raised an eyebrow. "Maybe we don't need to work on your fighting skills as much as I thought." She gestured she gave in and Julian let her up. She smiled. "Okay. Now, let's see how you do with a simulation," she said. "Computer, run program Daxfight 1." A representation of Worf appeared in the middle of the floor. "Now, I've programmed the computer with his fighting style. This should be the best approximation tomorrow. Julian nodded. "Computer, begin simulation." The image of Worf came to life and glared at Julian. "Defend yourself," it growled, dropping into fighting stance. Julian did the same. They circled for a moment, making a few testing feints. The character attacked suddenly, attempting to catch him off guard. Julian neatly spun away. Thank you, Palis,' he thought, amused.

Jadzia watched from the side, observing the fight. She winced as the simulation flipped Julian onto his back. Julian managed to roll away before the Klingon pinned him though, and was on his feet in a matter of seconds. He's really good,' she thought, watching. She held her breath as the two fighters locked for a moment and then released. He again took advantage of the momentary shift in his opponent's equilibrium and flipped him. Julian knelt on the stunned simulation's chest, unsheathing the ceremonial knife that had been attached to his belt and pointed it at its throat. Jadzia smiled. "End simulation." The image disappeared. Julian sighed and stood up. "So?" he asked.

Jadzia smiled and walked over and nodded her approval. "Just don't rely on that trick to save you more than two or three times."

"All I need is one time," Julian replied seriously. Jadzia nodded and handed him a towel. He wiped the sweat off his face, sinking against the wall. "You mentioned a massage?" he said.

Jadzia chuckled and helped him up. "Save your strength for tomorrow," she teased. Julian groaned.

*******

"You wanted to see me Captain?"

Sisko glanced up. "Yes, Commander. Have a seat." Worf walked in and sat down. "It's come to my attention that you've challenged Doctor Bashir to a fight."

Worf nodded. "It is within my right. Jadzia *was* my parmachi."

"And I'm not about deny you that right. Just place a restriction on it." Sisko leaned forward. "This is *not* going to be a fight to the death. If Bashir loses, he is to live. Understood?"

"But sir," Worf protested.

"This is *not* open for discussion, Commander. *If* Bashir loses, he will live or you will be court-marshaled so fast, you're head will spin and you'll be facing murder charges! Is that understood?"

Worf straightened. "Yes, sir."

"Good."

*******

Julian glanced nervously at the chronometer. 2055. He glanced at Jadzia, who smiled tenderly. No matter how many simulations he had been through, he was still nervous. He shifted back and forth from his heals to his toes, stretching his legs out. Miles came over. "Are you sure you want to go through with this? I've seen Worf fight. You don't want to tangle with him."

Julian glanced at Jadzia, who was watching the door and nodded. "I'll be fine Chief. Captain Sisko had a talk with Worf yesterday about this." O'Brien nodded his understanding. The doors slid open and Worf and Captain Sisko walked in. They were followed by Odo and Kira, who walked over to stand next to Jadzia. Impartial observers,' Julian thought. He glanced over at Worf, who was stretching out, glaring at him. Julian raised his eyebrows and sighed. At exactly 2100, Worf stepped out, bat'telh in hand. Julian stepped up to meet him. "Defend yourself," Worf growled. Julian did.

Jadzia watched nervously as the bat'telhs clanged incessantly. She knew the safeties would be turned off as part of Worf's bargain with Sisko. She studied Julian, trying to remain analytical. He was circling for the moment, waiting for Worf attack again.

Julian grunted as Worf threw his weight into the throw. He angrily pushed back, throwing Worf off balance. *NOW!*' his mind screamed and Julian put all his strength into a sweeping blow, intended disarm. He caught Worf's bat'telh with his and continued the movement, swinging around on one foot. The bat'telh came out of Worf's hands and flew across the room. Continuing the circle, Julian swung low, knocking Worf off his feet. Unfortunately, he lost his grip on the bat'telh and it followed Worf's. Damn. I still don't know my own strength, to do I? Last time I did this was when I saw those three people kidnaping Jadzia.' This thought flashed through his mind in a second and before he could drop to pin Worf, he was on his feet. Damn, damn, damn!'

Several minutes later, Julian was waiting again. He looks tired. Good. Now, just pace yourself.' Worf made a feint and went for Julian's waist. This time, Julian was ready and he twisted away and neatly flipped Worf over his hip. Julian spun to face him. Worf was already getting to his feet. Julian smiled. "Tired yet, Commander?" he asked. Worf simply growled in response. They sparred for fifteen more minutes, each delivering a several blows to the other.

Julian grunted as he landed on his back. Not wasting any time, he sprang to his feet. Damn,' he thought. That was really stupid.' His head was ringing from the blow. He managed to keep away from Worf while it cleared. Alright,' he thought. No more games.' Julian lunged forward, catching Worf off-guard. Until then, Julian had remained on defense, waiting for attacks rather than delivering them. Worf shifted his weight backwards. Julian neatly took advantage and, using all his strength, flipped Worf over. He heard Worf grunt as he landed and had him pinned before he could figure out what happened, knife pointed at his throat. "To do you yield?" he asked. Worf stared for a moment and then nodded. Julian stood up and sighed. "Good, because I'm exhausted." He tossed the knife away. This was met with laughter from the rest of the command crew. Sisko walked over and helped Worf up. Julian turned find Jadzia only be tackled by her. "Oomph," he grunted. She grinned. "Congratulations!" she murmured, kissing him passionately. Julian relaxed into the kiss, letting his arms slide around her. She pulled back for a moment. "Computer, end simulation," she said and kissed him again. Everything around them disappeared, including the senior staff. After a long moment, Jadzia pulled back. "Hmmm," she smiled. "I have a feeling that you're going to do fine."

"Thank you," Julian smiled. They kissed again. After several minutes, Julian managed tear himself away. "I think our time is up for the holosuites." Jadzia smiled at him and nodded. They both got up and dusted themselves off. "So," he said. "Now what?"

"Now you go back to your quarters and get a full nights rest," Jadzia said, walking with him towards the doors. Julian shot a sideways glance at her. She caught it and smiled. "And don't even think about it," she said.

He sighed softly. "Jadzia, if I lose, I also lose you, right?"

She paused and nodded. "Yes, for now. Until I find a way to break it off with Worf." They stepped out onto the Promenade. Julian pulled her into a secluded corner. "So, just in case I do...." He saw her smile and shake her head. "You're hopeless," she mumbled. He smiled softly and they kissed briefly. Jadzia pulled away and stepped back. "Look, why don't we go to your quarters and we'll talk for a while."

" Talk,' " Julian echoed.

"Yes, talk," she replied, trying not to laugh. They headed towards the habitat ring together. They were almost there when the spotted Worf heading towards them. Julian reflexively stiffened. Worf caught site of them and glowered. Fortunately, they reached his quarters before Worf could do anything. Julian walked in and closed and locked the door. He glanced at Jadzia, who was frowning slightly. He walked over to her and wrapped his arms around her. "I'm glad this is tomorrow. The sooner that this is over, the faster things can return to normal." Jadzia nodded and hugged him. After a long moment, Julian pulled back. "So, what did you want to talk about?" he asked.

"Nothing," she whispered, trying to blink back tears. She knew Julian had talked to Benjamin and she had no doubt that he had in turn talked to Worf, but that still didn't make things better. Worf could still severely hurt him as the safeties would most likely be turned off. She felt him gently brush her cheek with the back of his fingers. "Hey," he whispered. "Everything's going to be fine. I don't intend to go without a fight."

Jadzia leaned against his chest. "I can't believe this is happening. I feel like this is my fault and I can't to do anything to stop it." She tilted her chin up. "I don't suppose I could ask you to back out."

Julian gently kissed her. "You know that I would if you asked, but to do you think Worf will? Even if he did, I don't think that I could work around him. If he wants a fight, I'll give it to him. I'd prefer not to, but if he's so caught up in his honor and rituals that he can't see the forest for the trees, then that's his problem." He smiled. "Besides, if it's any consolation, I was going easy on you tonight."

Jadzia glanced up at him. "You had better not just be saying that for my sake," she said.

Julian shook his head. "I give you my word, I was only operating at about 75%." Jadzia smiled and shook her head. "You're certainly full of surprises," she murmured, smiling up at him.

"I try," he replied and he kissed her tenderly. Jadzia sank against him, feeling whatever apprehension she felt drift away.

Chapter 4

"Hide your sword now, wounded knight! Your vainglorious gasconnade brought you to your final fight - for your pride, high price you're paid!" -"Phantom of the Opera" Sir A.L. Weber "Rehearsal for Don Juan Triumphant"

Julian sighed and glanced over at Worf. He was stretching out and glaring at him the whole while.

"Well, he's in a good mood," O'Brien muttered. Julian nodded and tried to get a kink out of his shoulder. "Are you sure you want to do this?" O'Brien asked. "He looks like he could squash you and not give it a second thought."

Julian sighed and shrugged. "Not much of a choice now, is there?" he asked. O'Brien grunted and handed him a bat'telh. Julian sighed and accepted it. He glanced to the side where Jadzia was standing with Odo and Kira. She smiled at him encouragingly. Julian nodded and stepped away from the wall. Worf followed suit.

Sisko sighed and watched the two combatants circle each other, waiting to see who'd strike first. After a half a second, Worf lunged. A series of lightning quick strikes followed and the two separated. They're testing each other,' Sisko thought. He glanced at Julian. He was studying Worf, trying gauge him. After a moment, Julian struck. Worf blocked his swing and tried to get one of his own in. They separated again. Julian heard Worf growl softly and he realized that the fight would really begin now.

*******

A half hour later, both combatants were still standing. Worf was beginning to look worn out. Julian was still studying him. Suddenly Worf lunged forward and tried to disarm Julian. Julian quickly blocked and followed with a strike of his own. Their weapons locked. Alright. Now, pull, twist the blade and push his back. That will knock him off balance,' Julian thought. He pulled in hard and twisted the blades to unlock them and then pushed back. Worf stumbled for a moment and Julian swept the bat'telh downward, knocking Worf off his feet. He landed with a thud. Julian continued the movement and swung the bat'telh high and brought it down quickly, stopping just short of Worf's chest. Worf's eyes were wide with shock. "To do you yield?" Julian asked. Worf scowled and nodded. "I yield." Julian nodded in return and tossed the bat'telh aside. He extended a hand to Worf to help him up. Worf frowned and shook his head, standing of his own volition. Julian sighed. "Now that this is over, can we forget it even happened?" he asked.

Worf glared at him. "I do not see how." He stalked out of the holosuites, ignoring everyone. Julian raised an eyebrow and shook his head. He felt a hand clap his shoulder. "Forget it. He's just hurting from that last fall," O'Brien grinned. Julian smiled. "I can't even believe I went through this whole barbaric ritual," he said. "Fighting like that just because of hurt pride seems ridiculous."

"I agree," Jadzia said, stepping up. "I don't particularly care for being a prize to be claimed." Julian laughed and shook his head. She slipped an arm around his waist.

"So," Odo said. "Now what?"

"Now," O'Brien grinned. "We celebrate."

Julian winced and shook his head. "No, now you get me to the infirmary. I think he broke a couple of my ribs when he tossed me that last time." Jadzia smiled and gingerly supported him as they walked out.

*******

"There," Jadzia said fifteen minutes later. "Good as new."

Julian smiled and nodded. He stepped down from the biobed and smiled at her. "So, now what?" he asked. "Half the station knew about the fight. You should hear some of the speculation. When they find out I won...."

"They'll call it a fluke and move on," she replied. Julian smiled and glanced towards Quark's. "You know, I really don't feel like celebrating."

"Hmm," she murmured, gently sliding her arms around him. "That's too bad."

"In public," Julian quickly amended. Jadzia chuckled and shook her head. "You have to at least show up for a while. I think O'Brien said something about challenging you to darts while your arm is still sore."

Julian chuckled. "Alright," he conceded. "A couple matches and then we leave." Jadzia smiled and nodded. They headed over towards Quark's when Julian spotted something out of the corner of his eye. "What the...?" He ducked, pulling Jadzia with him. The fist swished through the air. Julian jerked backwards and glanced up. Worf was standing there, looking very drunk...and very mad. Julian took a step backwards. "What can I do for you Commander?"

"Fight fair!" Worf shouted.

"Commander, you're drunk. Why don't you head back to your quarters and sleep this off?" Worf swung again. Julian jerked backwards again. "I'll take that as a no," he muttered.

"Worf!" Jadzia shouted. "Worf this is ridiculous." A crowd was beginning to grow. Julian spotted Sisko, Odo, Kira, and O'Brien threading their way through the crowd. Worf ignored Jadzia and started forward. Julian felt his back press against a wall. He glanced to both sides. The closest open door was Garak's shop. Oh, he'll just *love* having a fight in the middle of his store,' Julian thought. Worf threw another punch and Julian ducked. Worf's hand hit the bulkhead hard, leaving a dent where his head used to be. Julian winced and ducked in Garak's shop.

"Doctor. What a delightful surprise! What can I do for you? And why do you look like you're being hunted?"

"Because I am and you can get out before you get caught in the middle." Julian's eyes scanned the room. There wasn't much maneuvering space in the little shop. He sighed and glanced up just as Worf burst in.

Garak raised an eyebrow and said, "Well, this is an interesting turn of events." Worf bumped into a rack, knocking it over. "Mr. Worf, really! Doctor, do you think you could take this elsewhere?" Garak protested.

"I wish I could Garak," Julian said, circling Worf as the rest of the command crew rushed in. Julian glared at Worf. "This isn't just about Jadzia, is it?"

Worf glared at him. "I thought that there was something about you that I shouldn't trust," he growled.

"Worf!" Sisko shouted. Worf ignored him and lunged at the doctor. Julian darted out of the way, accidentally knocking over another rack.

"Really doctor!" Garak protested, trying to look offended when he was truly intrigued by Worf's comment.

"Sorry!" Julian said, backing away. "What do you mean, Worf? Are you that prejudiced?"

Worf growled. "How many people have you lied to to protect yourself? And now you allow a Federation world to blackmail Star Fleet just to save yourself!" Worf swung again, this time clipping Julian on the jaw.

Julian stumbled away, his head ringing from the blow. "To do you honestly think that I intended for that happen? How could I know that the guard could collect information more efficiently that the Obsidian Order?" He knew he had Garak's attention now but there was no turning back. "And that's not what your problem is, is it? You're afraid. Afraid of what you don't understand." Julian swung his own punch. It landed solidly in Worf's abdomen. Worf grunted, doubling over. He managed stagger away before Julian knocked him down.

"I am afraid of nothing!" he roared, gasping for breath.

"Yes you are. Don't give me that Klingon crap." Julian lunged, knocking Worf down. He landed a solid punch in Worf's face. Worf's eyes slid up into his head and he slipped into unconsciousness. Julian stood up, gasping for air. Jadzia darted over. "Are you alright?" she asked.

"I'm fine," he replied. He glanced up at Sisko and winced. "I suppose I'm going to spend the night in the brig for this," he said.

Sisko scowled and glanced at Worf. "That would seem like the logical decision." Julian sighed. "However, Mr. Worf was the one who started the brawl and the two of you aren't going to stay in the same room for obvious reasons." Sisko straightened. "Odo, take Mr. Worf to the brig. Doctor, you're confined to your quarters for the rest of the evening." Julian nodded and watched as Odo called for security.

"I'll take Julian back to his quarters," Jadzia offered.

"First I have to take him to security to file the report," Odo broke in.

"And besides old man, you and I have to talk." Jadzia glanced at Julian apologetically. "Major, escort the doctor to his quarters after Odo is finished with him." Kira nodded and gestured for the doctor to leave. Julian stepped over a fallen rack to get to the door. "Sorry about the mess Garak," he offered.

Garak glanced around his shop and shook his head. "Glad I could be of service," he replied.

Forty five minutes later, Kira and Julian headed for the habitat ring, Julian gingerly massaging his jaw where Worf hit him. "Are you alright, doctor?" Kira asked.

"I'll be fine. It just smarts," he said.

Kira shook her head. "It was very stupid to talk like that in front of Garak, Doctor. Especially the bit about the Order. He's going to hunt around to figure out what you were talking about."

Julian sighed. "I know, but there was no way I was going to beat Worf unless I could catch him off guard. That was the only thing that came to mind." They arrived at his quarters and Julian punched the command controls. The door slid open to reveal his quarters a wreck. Julian gaped at the mess. "Oh, my god. What the hell happened?"

Kira stared. "Maybe Worf stopped by here first. Kira to security."

"Go ahead, Major."

"Report to Bashir's quarters. Someone broke in and went through them."

"I'm on my way," Odo replied. Julian sighed and stepped into his quarters. His belongings were strewn everywhere. Julian sighed again and began to sort through the mess.

"I wouldn't touch anything, doctor," Kira suggested. Julian glanced up and nodded. He looked around the room. His eyes rested on a PADD that was sitting neatly on the table. Julian walked over and glanced down at it. He took a deep breath and let it out. He sank down into a chair, resting his head in his hands.

"What's wrong, Doctor?" Kira asked as Odo walked in. Julian gestured to the PADD as Jadzia walked in. "Oh, my god," she whispered gazing round the room. She walked over to the table and glanced at him. "Are you alright?" she asked. She glanced at Kira, who was glaring at the PADD. "What's that?" she asked, leaning over Kira's shoulder to read it. On it there were several derogatory terms, the more repeatable ones along the lines of freak' and monster.' Her face reddened with anger. "I don't believe this. If Worf did this...." She turned to Julian and gently rested her hands on his. He smiled wanly at her. Odo walked over and took the PADD. He sniffed derisively as he read it. The rest of the security team was combing the room for clues to the vandal's identity. Julian sighed softly. He felt Jadzia's hands tighten around his.

"Don't worry, Doctor. We'll find the perpetrator," Odo said. "I have very little tolerance for hate crimes." Julian simply nodded and closed his eyes. He suddenly felt very tired.

Jadzia glanced up at Kira. "Major, is it alright is I take Julian to my quarters for the time being?" Kira nodded. Julian sighed and stood up. He and Jadzia walked out in silence. They reached her quarters and walked in. Julian sank down on her couch as Jadzia paced in front of him. "Whoever did that better pray that Odo finds them before I do," she growled.

Julian glanced up at her and smiled slightly. "Jadzia...."

She turned to face him and frowned. "Don't you even tell me to forget it. If you even *think* that I'm just going to drop this..."

He stood up and rested his hands on her shoulders. "Jadzia, don't. Odds are that it was Worf."

Jadzia reached up and gently brushed his hair back. "Alright. If you're right, then I'll have Worf's head. If not, well, I can't be held responsible for my action."

Julian felt a little smile creep onto his face. "In that case, you're right. They'd *better* pray that Odo gets to them first." Jadzia grinned and kissed him. Julian pulled her close. He could feel his muscles just start to loosen up when her commbadge chirped. Jadzia pulled away. "Yes?" she said.

"Dax please report to my office," Sisko said.

Jadzia stifled a sigh. "I'll be right there." She cut the connection and kissed him again. "I've got to go," she murmured. Julian smiled. "I heard," he whispered, tenderly kissing her. Jadzia sank against him for a moment. Realizing where she should be, she managed to tear herself away. "Make yourself at home," she murmured, heading towards the door. Julian's eyes followed her out. The door slid shut behind her and she sank against it, trying to compose herself. After several calming breaths, she stood up straight and headed towards Ops.

Chapter 5

"Past all hope of cries for help: no point in fighting." -"Phantom of the Opera" Sir A.L. Weber "Beyond the Lake"

"You wanted to see me Benjamin?"

Sisko glanced up as she walked in. He didn't even want to know why it took her this long to get up here. "Yes," he said. "I want to know what would happen if Doctor Bashir's secret became public knowledge."

Jadzia paused. "Well, I suppose people would be shocked. Some might not react that well."

"Like Worf?"

"Like .... Benjamin, what are you driving at?"

He sighed. "I'm wondering what we're getting ourselves into here. If Worf is just the beginning."

"And if he is?" she asked tensely.

"If he is, perhaps it would be in the doctor's best interest to take an extended vacation."

Jadzia felt her temper rising. "Just how extended?" she asked, letting a touch of anger slip into her voice.

Sisko frowned at her. "Until things calm down here."

Jadzia glared at him. "I don't think that would be a good idea. Especially considering that Worf was drunk. I doubt people would react like that. Julian doesn't seem too worried that that will happen."

Sisko nodded. "Good because I'd hate to lose him." Sisko's manner shifted. "I heard about the break in. How is Julian handling it?"

"He's shocked and upset, but other than that I think he's okay."

Sisko nodded. "Well, I suppose that's all for now. Go get some sleep." Jadzia nodded and walked out.

*******

Julian stirred the next morning and reached over for Jadzia. All he found was a PADD. He smiled softly and picked it up to read. He let out a strangled cry and dropped the PADD on the bed and swung his gaze around the room.

"Julian! What's wrong?" Jadzia darted out of the bathroom, towel wrapped around her. Her eyes wandered to the PADD laying where he dropped it. Her eyes narrowed and she walked over. She picked it up and read it. It was similar to the one they found last night. Julian heard her let out a soft growl. She glanced up at him and walked to the comm panel on the wall. "Dax to Odo."

"Go ahead Commander."

"Please report to my quarters. There's been another incident," she said, acid slipping into her voice on the last word.

"On my way." Jadzia walked over to Julian and sank down on the bed next to him. "Julian?" she whispered. He sighed softly. "I'm fine," he replied, glancing up at her. "You should go get dressed before Odo gets here." Jadzia nodded and kissed him quickly. She padded back into the bathroom. Julian sighed again and got up and pulled on a robe just as the door chimed. He walked over and opened the door. Odo walked in and glanced around. "It doesn't look like anything was disturbed. What's the problem." Julian went into the bedroom and retrieved the PADD. Odo studied it while Julian explained how he found it. Odo glowered. "I talked with Worf this morning. He remembers going to your quarters last night "looking" for you but he swears he didn't leave the PADD. We have someone else doing this. How on earth did they get it in here?"

Julian shrugged. "I don't know. The door was locked. Jadzia was in the shower and I was asleep."

Odo growled and checked the access log on the door. "Whoever it was was in here at 0714 and left at 0729. It doesn't take fifteen minutes to drop of a PADD. What else did they do?" Odo began examining the room as Jadzia walked out, dressed in her uniform. "Find anything?" she asked. Julian recanted what Odo discovered. Jadzia sighed. "I've got to get to work. I'll see you at lunch?" Julian nodded. "Commander," Odo spoke up. Jadzia stopped. "Be careful. You might come under attack too." Jadzia nodded and left, giving Julian a quick kiss on her way out.

Julian turned to Odo. "Would they really target her just for being involved with me?"

Odo sighed. "It's possible, but not probable. Unless we're dealing with fanatics, which I haven't found any evidence of." Julian nodded and brushed a hand wearily over his eyes. "Doctor, may I make a suggestion."

"Go ahead Odo."

"Take today off." Julian glanced at him and then nodded. "And, if you think of anything helpful, let me know."

"Alright. If you'll excuse me, I'm going to shower and get dressed." Odo nodded and turned back his work. He had finished searching the dining area so he turned the shelves. He was hunting around when he found something attached to one of the small plants Dax kept in her quarters. Odo picked it up and smiled.

Julian stepped out of the bedroom dressed in a pair of slacks and a shirt. "Have you found anything?" he asked. Odo held up the small device. "Nothing," he replied as Julian's eyes widened. Odo replaced the listening device where he found it and motioned for the doctor to exit the room. They headed out into the hall. When the doors slid shut, Julian glanced at Odo. "Why did you put that back?"

"I've found that bugs can be used in my favor on occasion," Odo explained. "It's possible we can use the device to flush out whomever is doing this."

Julian nodded and glanced back at the door. "Can I go back to my room or is it still off limits?"

"You can go back, but lock the door when you get there and change the access code," Odo advised.

Julian nodded. "Did you find any of those devices in my room?" Odo shook his head. Julian sighed. "Thank you, Constable."

"I'm just doing my job, Doctor." Odo nodded and left. Julian sighed and headed towards his quarters. When he got there, he changed the code and locked the door behind him as Odo suggested. Julian glanced around. Things were somewhat more organized, but clothes were still scattered around the room. He sighed and got to work straightening.

*******

Julian had just finished putting the last bit of clothes away when he heard someone trying to access the door. He heard the computer state that the password was wrong. Julian crept behind the couch and heard a familiar voice say, "Computer, override password authorization..." Julian darted over and snapped the door open. He saw Jadzia standing there. "Why did you change your password?" she asked.

"Odo suggested it," he replied, letting her in. She glanced around. "Well, it's cleaner in here," she said. She turned to face him. "Odo told me about the little device that was planted in my room," she said. "He said I should come here until he works out a way to find whoever is doing this."

Julian nodded. "Well, make yourself comfortable. You want anything?"

"No," she sank down on the couch, undoing her uniform jacket. Julian smiled and walked over. "How was work?" he asked.

She glanced up at him and smiled. "Tedious. I'm only beginning to get some of the data I need for that project I'm working on."

Julian smiled. "Well, just as long as you don't go breaking any more glasses," he teased. Jadzia smiled and reached for his hand. He gently wrapped his arm around her. They were both started when the computer announced that there were messages waiting for the both of them. Julian stood up and Jadzia followed him the terminal. "Computer, play message." Julian sank down in the chair as it began scroll. He blanched. "Oh, my god," he whispered. On the screen were details, procedures, and dates. Dax's jaw dropped and she hit her commbadge. "Dax to Sisko."

"Go ahead."

"Benjamin, Julian and I just got a message from our friend...."

"Yes, we know. It was sent to every person on the station. We're presently trying to erase it from the system." Sisko's voice was tight.

"I'm on my way up ...."

"No, Commander," Odo broke in. "Stay where you are."

Jadzia glanced at Julian. He was staring at the screen in shock. "Alright. Dax out." She cut the communication. "Julian?" she whispered.

He sighed and glanced up at her. "I'm fine," he replied. Jadzia tapped the screen, turning it off. She sank down on the table in front of him and gently took his hands. He sighed softly. "I guess it's out."

"Maybe not. They're working on it...."

"I'm sure someone else has already seen it. That means everyone will know."

Jadzia frowned. She leaned forward and hugged him. They held each other for a long time. After several minutes, they pulled apart. "Are you sure you're alright?" she asked.

Julian took a deep breath and nodded. "I'm fine. I just want to know who's doing this."

"So do I, love," she whispered. "So do I."

Chapter 6

"Fear can turn to love - you'll learn to see, to find the man behind the monster." -Phantom of the Opera Sir A.L. Weber "The Next Morning"

"Who was that shape in the shadows? Whose is the face in the mask?" -"Phantom of the Opera" Sir A.L. Weber "The Next Morning"

"A prodigy, monsieur! Scholar, architect, musician..." -"Phantom of the Opera" Sir A.L. Weber "Backstage"

Julian glanced around the table. Everyone looked mad, to one degree or another. Except Worf. Worf didn't look mad, or happy or sad. He simply sat there, staring at the PADD.

"Report," Sisko snapped.

"I traced the message back to where it originated," Odo said. "Unused guest quarters on level 3, section 4. No prints or DNA was left behind."

Sisko scowled. "Doctor, how accurate is the message?"

Julian sighed. "A hundred percent. I have no idea where they got it from."

"Did you keep the records anywhere?" Odo asked. "Your personal medical file?"

Julian shook his head. "I haven't made any record of it at all since getting here. The last time I did was in medical school."

"Where?"

"My journals." Julian's eyes widened. He turned to Dax. She was as shocked as he was. "My god. *That's* what they were looking for in my room!"

"Only they're not in your room. You gave them to Dax," Kira said. Julian nodded.

"That's why they were in Commander Dax's quarters for fifteen minutes," Odo said. "It took them that long to find them."

Sisko sighed. "Alright. We know *how* they got the information. Now, how do we find them." Sisko turned Bashir. "Is there *anything* in them that we can use? Or anything that's not in them?"

Julian took a deep breath and glanced out the window at the stars, trying to remember. "I'm not sure right now. I'll have to think about it."

"Do that." Sisko turned to the rest of the crew. "I want all available man power on this. I want this person caught before this escalates any further." Everyone nodded and walked out. Julian suddenly felt much better about this. I can actually *do* something,' he thought.

"Doctor," came a gruff voice. Julian turned slowly and faced Worf. "May I have a word with you?" Julian paused and then nodded. Worf shifted uncomfortably. "I just wanted to apologize about the other night. I don't remember exactly what happened but...."

Julian waved him off. "You can't apologize for what you don't remember, Commander. Forget it. Besides, you aren't the only person in the universe who's done some stupid things while they were drunk."

Worf nodded and hesitated. "I also want apologize for the way I treated you during and after the meeting. I have had some...bad experiences in the past with this particular subject. I was...uncomfortable with the idea of serving with someone who has been genetically...altered."

Julian stood quietly for a moment and then nodded. "Apology accepted." Worf nodded curtly and headed back into Ops. Julian paused and then headed towards the Infirmary. He needed to contact his mother.

*******

Julian stepped onto the Promenade a bit hesitantly. He could feel people watching him as he walked towards the Infirmary. Most of the glances he caught were sympathetic although a few were wary. None were hostile, however. Julian stepped into the Infirmary, feeling relieved. He walked into the main room to find one of the nurses straightening. When she saw him, she dropped the tricorder she held. Julian winced. "Doctor! I didn't think that you would...I mean, I was sure you weren't...I..."

Julian smiled. "It's alright," he said. "What has been happening lately?"

"Well, nothing really. It's been very quiet."

Julian paused, wondering if he really wanted to know the answer to his next question. "What about the appointments for the physicals?"

The nurse paused and then said, "They canceled, sir." Julian sighed deeply. He was right, he didn't want to know. "Doctor?" Julian turned and smiled at her. "I just want to say that I don't really care whether you have been genetically enhanced or not. You are the best doctor I've ever had the pleasure of working with. I know things may not look like it now, but people will begin to realize that nothing has changed."

Julian smiled a genuine smile for the first time in a long time. "Thank you," he said. "That means a lot." She smiled back and nodded. Julian glanced around. "Well, I suppose it will remain quiet, but if something does happen, let me know." She nodded and Julian walked into his office. He sat for a moment and then contacted his mother.

"Julian," she smiled. "How wonderful to hear from you so soon. What's wrong?"

Julian smiled at his mother. "What makes you think anything's wrong?"

"A mother's intuition," she said.

Julian took a deep breath. "Well, it seems that our secret isn't so secret anymore."

Amsha paused. "Oh, dear. What has happened?"

"Until yesterday, nothing more than a couple of ugly notes. Yesterday, however, someone accessed the computer and sent a message every inhabitant on the station. It included all the details, the different procedures, the dates of each.." Julian took a deep breath.

"Oh, Jules. I'm so sorry about this. Is there anything I can do?"

"Actually, yes." He smiled as his mother perked up at this. "They got the information from my medical school journals. I always considered this a bit retentive on my part, but I have a copy at home."

"Where?"

Julian chuckled. "Inside Kukulaka." He saw his mother grin. "If you could get them...."

"I'll send them out as soon as I can. And I'll restich him up for you."

Julian grinned. "Thank you, mother."

"Of course dear. Take care." She signed off. Julian smiled and leaned back in his chair. Step one,' he thought contentedly.

*******

Jadzia entered Julian's quarters to find him intently studying the computer screen. "What are you reading?" she asked.

"My med school journals."

"What? But I thought they were stolen."

"They were. These are the backups I kept, just in case. Mother sent them out earlier."

Jadzia smiled and walked over, resting her hands on his shoulders. "Find anything yet?" she asked.

"Not yet," he murmured, hitting the page down button.

"Hmmm," she murmured in response and gently began massaging his shoulders. He smiled slightly and continued reading. "So, what happens when you do?"

"I'm not sure what the captain has planned," he admitted. "I'm just glad to finally be doing something."

Jadzia smiled at him. "So, how was work?"

Julian paused. "Very slow," he admitted. "All my appointments canceled."

Jadzia sighed and said, "Give people a chance to assimilate this, Julian. I'm sure they'll come around." Julian simply nodded and continued reading. Suddenly he looked up. "Jadzia, do you think that whoever is doing this is monitoring communications?"

She glanced at him and frowned. "Well, they could be monitoring internal. I don't know about subspace. Why?"

Julian grinned. "I have an idea."

Chapter 7

"I hate to cut the fun short, but the joke's wearing thin....Let the audience in....Let my opera begin!" -"Phantom of the Opera" Sir A.L. Weber "Before the Premier"

"Farewell my fallen idol and false friend. One by one I've watched illusions shattered." -Phantom of the Opera Sir A.L. Weber "Beyond the Lake"

"That's it," he said.

Sisko looked thoughtful. "And you think this will work?" Julian nodded.

"I think it would, sir," Odo spoke up. "We've established that they aren't monitoring subspace so we could set the trap for them saying that the doctor's backups' are really supplemental, going into more detail than his copies here for fear of being discovered. It's something that they can't resist."

Sisko nodded. "Do it," he said. Julian and Odo nodded and walked out. "Do you think we should alert the rest of the senior staff?" Julian asked.

Odo shook his head. "The less people that know, the better things will be. Let's go set up the bait."

*******

The doors to Dax's quarters swooshed open. "This will just take me a moment, Julian. I just need get some things," she said, walking into the bedroom.

"That's alright," he called.

"So, you're telling me that the journals you gave me are watered down versions?" she asked.

Julian smiled. "Yes."

She poked her head out of the bedroom. "I'm hurt," she teased. "You didn't trust me that much?"

Julian laughed. "It's not that and you know it." He sobered up. "The ones that my mother is sending me contains more details than the ones here. Especially surrounding this whole situation."

Jadzia sighed and walked out. "Which you didn't want to get out, so you left them at home." Julian nodded. "When do you get them?"

"This evening. She's sending me a copy over subspace and then destroying the backups. I'm going save the copy here."

Jadzia nodded. "Well, if it helps," she said. She walked out with a duffel. "All set." Julian smiled and they walked out. Jadzia locked the door behind her and turned to him. "A damn shame you never took up acting," she smiled at him. Julian grinned indulgently and they headed off.

*******

Julian sat at the computer. "Thank you again, mother."

"Good luck," she said. Julian nodded and broke the connection. He downloaded the files she sent him and headed to the infirmary. Once there, he went straight into his office. "Computer, activate privacy seal." Julian sat down at the desk, glanced up and then walked over and drew the blinds. He glanced around and then whispered. "Computer. Activate LMH program Bashir1." Julian smiled to and at himself. 'I'm glad this is still in the data base.' "Good luck," he hissed. He ducked into the adjacent room and closed the door. His counter part sat down at the desk and began to read.

Julian turned on a small terminal that he had in the adjacent room. Through it, he could see the LMH reading the files Julian's mother had sent: family recipes. Julian smiled to himself. This is going well,' he thought.

*******

Odo sat in his security office, waiting for the signal from the infirmary. Two of his deputies sat across from him. Over an hour and a half had passed so far. Odo could see that the two Bajorans were getting restless. Suddenly, a security alert went off in the habitat ring. Odo glanced up. It could be that our friend is on to us and is trying to get at the files directly.' He stood briskly. "Let's go. We can't risk not knowing." They headed out towards the habitat ring. They were in the turbolift when it ground a halt. "What the..." Odo morphed through the ceiling and found that someone had jammed the gears. He sank back into the lift. "Odo to O'Brien."

"Go ahead."

"It appears our friend has been busy. My deputies and I are in turbolift three, which is presently stuck between level five and six of the habitat ring. I would appreciate it if someone would come out here and fix it immediately."

"I'm on my way," O'Brien replied, cursing the Cardassian technology.

*******

Julian sighed and stared at the screen. It had been over three hours and nothing had happened so far. He could feel himself starting to nod off. Suddenly, a thought hit him. "Computer," he hissed. "Program the LMH to begin feeling fatigued. Gradually!" The computer shown an affirmative on his screen. Julian sighed. Over the next half hour, the LMH began to exhibit signs of fatigue, starting with the occasional yawn and working up to nodding off occasionally. Suddenly, a light flashed on Julian's screen. The privacy seal had just been turned off. He could see a shadow appear just in the viewing range. There you are,' Julian thought as the LMH called out "Who's there?" I am so glad O'Brien and I worked on the inflections.'

The figure froze. They obviously thought I was asleep,' Julian thought. There was a split second hesitation before the figure darted into the room and dove at the LMH. "Computer, disengage program," he hissed. Just as the figure should have connected with the LMH, it disappeared, leaving the person to go sailing through the air and crash into the far wall. Julian darted out of the small room and called out, "LIGHTS!" The lights blared on and Julian blinked. He glanced down at the figure on the ground and gasped, "GARAK?"

The tailor stood up. "Damn your intelligence, doctor," he spat out.

Julian just stared. "It was you?! WHY?"

"Because, doctor, you follow in the footsteps of such egolomaniacs as Kahn Singh. Because you and your gifts' are nothing more than a lie. Because *you* are nothing more than a lie." Garak stared hard at the doctor.

Julian glared at him. "I don't believe this. Of all the people...you were the last one I thought that would to do this. I *thought* we were friends."

"We were doctor," Garak said. "Right up until you came into my shop the other night. Your comments caught my attention. Especially the one about being afraid of what you don't understand. So, I did a little research. Imagine my surprise that the young man that I've actually come to trust over the years has been not only lying to me but is nothing more than a lab experiment."

Julian blanched. "Garak," he said. "I'm the same person, dammit. Can't you see that?" Where the hell is security?' Julian thought.

"All I see is a fraud and a fake," Garak retorted.

Julian felt his shock wearing off. "If you had really read my journals, Garak, you'd see that I'm not proud of what my parents did. I haven't been home in three years because we always end up arguing about it." Julian felt his anger and frustration building, his voice rising slightly in volume. "I went through medical school, damn it. I've been through the academy. I know all about Kahn Singh and the eugenic wars and how genetic manipulation is immoral' unless dire circumstances' surround it and *even then* it's looked down upon. I've had to lie to my friends for almost *twenty years* because I was afraid they wouldn't accept me or wouldn't understand. Until Dr. Zimmerman found out, I was always living in fear that *one day* someone would discover my secret and *everything* I've worked for would be gone." Julian paused for a split second and when he spoke again his voice was level. "Well, guess what, Garak. Someone did find out. And I'm still here. I still have my practice, I still have my friends."

"All except one doctor," Garak retorted.

Julian took a deep breath. "If you can't accept me for who I am, then I guess we never really were friends, Garak. I can't change who I am. All I can do is ask that people accept me for me."

Garak studied him for a long time. After several minutes, he said, "I don't know if I can, doctor." Julian took a deep breath and slowly let it out. Just then, Odo appeared at the door with two deputies behind him. His eyes widened at the sight of Garak standing there and said, "Sorry we were late doctor. It seems Mr. Garak kept us busy tonight."

Julian nodded and glanced at Odo. "Everything's in the side room. You have all the evidence you need to convict," he said. Julian glanced at Garak once more and then walked out. Jadzia was just darting in the infirmary when he exited. "Julian! Did it work?" she asked. Julian began to reply when Odo's deputies led Garak out of the office. Odo followed behind, carrying the equipment. Odo nodded at Julian and Jadzia as he passed and Julian smiled thinly.

Jadzia studied the security force for a moment and then turned back Julian. Her face was a mixture of disbelief, shock, and concern. "Are you alright?" she whispered.

Julian glanced at the doorway and then back Dax. "I'm fine," he said softly. He sighed. "Let's go." Jadzia slid an arm around his waist and they walked out together.

*******

"Garak?!" Sisko exclaimed. He shook his head, shocked.

"Yes, Garak. Cardassians emphasize the physical over the spiritual. That's why their funeral rites are so strict. They are strictly opposed to genetic manipulation of any sort."

Sisko sighed. "So, what do we do?"

"Well, provided your doctor files formal charges..."

"You mean that he hasn't filed charges yet?" Sisko was becoming more baffled by the moment.

"No. He seemed a little shocked to me when we arrived last night."

"Yes, well, I suppose he has a right to be. He and Garak were friends for years. And now..." Sisko puffed out a breath. "When he does file charges, what will happen?"

"Garak will stand trial for hate crimes on Bajor."

Sisko paused. "Why not in the Federation? Doctor Bashir is a Federation citizen and a Star Fleet officer."

Odo studied Sisko curiously. "It is my understanding that Star Fleet and the Federation are in a rather tight predicament with this. I talked with Major Kira. She and I felt that if Bajor prosecuted the crimes, then it would stop this here and the Federation wouldn't be any worse for wear."

Sisko paused and then nodded. "You're right. Now all we need is for Doctor Bashir to file his charges."

Odo nodded. "I should get back to my prisoner." Sisko nodded and Odo left.

*******

Julian paced outside of security waiting for Odo to get back. He spotted him coming after a moment.

"Doctor. I assume that's your statement," Odo said, nodding at the PADD in Julian's hand.

Julian glanced at it and nodded. "Yes, it is."

Odo waited. "Aren't you going to give it to me?"

Julian glanced at him. "I'd like to see Garak first."

Odo studied him and nodded. "Alright." He opened the door to security and gestured for Bashir to enter. Julian stepped in. "He's through there," Odo said, gesturing. Julian nodded and walked through.

Garak glanced up as he entered. "Well, did you come to gloat before I'm sent to Bajor?"

Julian gazed at him. "I haven't filed charges yet."

"Really?" Garak sounded genuinely surprised.

Julian nodded. He held up the PADD. "I wrote a statement. It didn't take me that long. Odo certainly has more than enough evidence to convict you without it." Julian began to pace. "But, each time I read over the facts, I can't quite believe that *you* did this."

"Well, I'm sorry to destroy your innocence, doctor."

Julian glanced at him. "Garak. Had you not found out, would you have even *suspected* this?"

Garak paused consider. "No. I guess you're a better actor that I give you credit for, doctor."

Julian sighed with disgust and turned away. "Garak, I'd rather not turn this in. I know what the sentence is for hate crimes on Bajor."

Garak smiled sarcastically. "Well, thank you for your concern doctor. But I'd rather take my chances with the Bajorans than take your charity." Julian turned, stunned. After a moment, his face hardened and he walked out. Julian dropped the confession on Odo's desk. "File the charges," he said. Odo stared at him as he walked out.

Chapter 8

"Masquerade! Seething shadows, breathing lies. Masquerade! You can fool any friend who ever knew you! -"Phantom of the Opera" Sir A. L. Weber. "Masquerade"

Jadzia glanced up startled as Julian stormed into the infirmary. "Julian? What's wrong?"

He glanced up, forgetting to ask what she was doing there. "I just had a talk with Garak," he said. Walking into his office, Julian sank down at his desk.

Jadzia glanced after him. "Love, I want to follow you, but I can't walk so if you want to talk could you come back out here?"

Julian darted out. "You can't *walk*? What happened?"

Jadzia smiled slightly and gently grabbed his hands. "You," she teased. Julian glanced at her, confused. She sighed. "I twisted my ankle this morning while playing spring ball with Kira. I had a lot of steam to blow and overexerted myself trying to return a volley." Julian flushed. "Sorry." Jadzia tenderly squeezed his hands. "It's alright. Now, what happened?"

Julian sighed and picked up the tendon reknitter. "I went to turn in my statement." Jadzia nodded. He had been up half the night, trying to work on it. Jadzia had finally managed to get him to go to bed at 3 a.m.. "Before I turned it in, I went in and talked with Garak."

"Oh, Julian. Why did you do that?" She gently brushed at his forehead as he worked on her ankle. "What's the point of torturing yourself?"

Julian sighed and shook his head. "I don't know. I guess I really didn't believe that he..."

Jadzia reached down and cupped his chin in her hands. "Julian," she murmured, gazing into his dark eyes. "You know as well as I do that Cardassians take the physical over the spiritual. It's no surprise that he reacted like this." She tilted her head gently to the right and gently brushed her fingers over his cheek. "I know this isn't easy. I can't imagine how I'd react but I do know that I'll stand behind you, no matter what you decide."

Julian sighed. "I told Odo to file the charges," he admitted. "I was so mad that he couldn't understand." Julian straightened his shoulders. "What's done is done. He made his decision, I made mine." Julian set the reknitter down. "That should do it."

Jadzia hopped down and smiled. "Thank you." She gently wrapped her arms around him, hugging him tightly. Julian smiled and hugged her back. After a moment, she pulled back. "I have to get to work. I'll see you tonight?" Julian nodded. Jadzia smiled and headed for the door. Julian turned around and took a deep breath and let it out slowly.

*******

"Commander," Odo said. "What can I do for you?"

Jadzia glanced at him. "I need to see Garak."

Odo sighed and gestured to the door. Jadzia stepped through and studied the Cardassian.

Garak sighed. "What can I do for you Dax?"

"Why did you do this?"

"My dear, if you have to ask that question, you have learned nothing."

"Garak. You know as well as I do that Julian isn't another Kahn Singh."

"Commander, I really don't want to hear another speech. I believe that genetic manipulation is wrong. Immoral. Evil. And that anyone who has been genetically engineered is not worth the dirt on the floor of this cell."

"You can't believe that about Julian, though. You know him too well. I know him well enough to see beyond this. I have to admit I was a little leery at first but I realized that he's still the same person that I've come to know over the last few years."

"My dear, if you're trying to convince me to change my beliefs by words, you're wasting your breath. Now, if you don't mind, I'd like to get some sleep." Jadzia frowned and walked out.

"Did you have a nice talk?" Odo asked.

Dax glanced at him and sighed. "I don't understand it Odo. I can't believe he's that cold blooded."

"Commander, he's a Cardassian. Their whole race is cold blooded."

Jadzia sighed and glanced at Odo. "I'm just concerned about Julian."

Odo nodded. "I know. But he'll manage. He knew this was a possibility." Dax glanced at Odo and smiled. "When does Garak leave?"

"I figured it would be in everyone's interest if he left as soon as possible. He's scheduled to leave this afternoon." Jadzia nodded and walked out.

*******

Julian glanced out the window in his quarters, watching the transport depart. He heard the door chime. "Come in," he said, turning away.

Jadzia entered and walked in. "Hello."

Julian smiled at her. "Hello. How's your ankle?"

"Just fine," she murmured. She kissed him tenderly. "What are you listening to?"

"The Phantom of the Opera," Julian said.

Jadzia smiled and shook her head. "A brilliant genius is shunned by society because of what he is."

"A monster," Julian finished.

Jadzia gently ran her hands over his chest. "Is that really how you see yourself? A monster?"

Julian sighed and shook his head. "No. But I know it's how others see me."

Jadzia paused and nodded. "Yes, some people will. I won't argue with that. But we both know most won't. Most people will see you for what you really are. You're a wonderful, compassionate man. That won't change."

Julian gazed at her and smiled. "Have I ever told you how much I love you?"

Jadzia smiled in return. "Not in so many words."

"Hmmm. I never was very good with words. I prefer to let my actions speak for themselves."

"Well, in that case..." Jadzia began. Julian burst out laughing and bent and kissed her. She smiled and wrapped her arms around his neck, returning the sentiment. She pulled back after a moment. "I'll always be here for you," she murmured. He smiled and gently rested his forehead against hers.

"Thank you."

Phantom singing solo "Masquerade...Paper faces on parade....Masquerade...Hide your face so the world will never find you....."

Epilogue

"He had either to hide his genius or play tricks with it, when with an ordinary face, he would have been one of the noblest members of the human race." -"Le Fantome de l'Opera" Gaston Leroux

Julian sat in the courtroom with Jadzia. It was the final day of the trial. Julian straightened as the jury walked back in. "Have you reached a verdict?" the judge asked.

"We have, your honor. On the charges of theft and breaking and entering we find the defendant, Elim Garak, guilty." Julian took a deep breath and slowly let it out.

"Very well. At the request of the victim, Doctor Bashir, the charge of harassment has been dropped. You will therefore spend four months in a secure cell on DS9 as there is some fear as to your treatment here on Bajor. You will be escorted to the afternoon transport back to the station." The judge signaled the end the trial and people got up to leave. Garak turned around and scanned the court for Julian as he was lead out. He spotted him at the back and he stopped as he passed. "Why doctor?"

Julian glanced at him. "It was the least I could do. I should have told you."

Garak studied him for a moment and then nodded, smiling slightly. One of the guards tugged on his arm and Garak walked out. Julian sighed heavily. Jadzia held his hand, gently brushing her hand over the back of it. "You're a good man, Julian Bashir," she whispered. Julian glanced up at her and nodded. "Come on. The transport leaves soon." Julian followed Jadzia out and they walked toward the space port. He stopped short of the ramp, holding her back. He bent and slowly kissed her. Jadzia melted against him, mildly startled. After a long moment, he pulled back. "What was that for?" she murmured breathlessly.

Julian smiled at her. "Thank you. You've been wonderful throughout this whole thing, from beginning to end. I appreciate it."

Jadzia smiled. "Well, why don't you come on board so I can say You're welcome' properly." Julian started and grinned. She tugged on his hand, pulling him towards the ramp. Julian smiled and followed her in.

*******

"I want to state, first and foremost, that I consider Elim Garak my friend. It is with great trepidation that I write this statement for I cannot help but feel that this is partly my fault. I was the one who did not make any mention of my genetic background even though I knew that Cardassians were sensitive about the subject.

"I never meant to offend anyone. I had truthfully hoped that this would never become an issue. However, it has. I intend to accept responsibility for my actions.

"Therefore, I only charge Elim Garak with theft and breaking and entering. In good conscious, I cannot hold him responsible for his other acts as they were a result of my deliberate misrepresentation of the facts.

Dr. Julian S. Bashir"

Garak sat back, studying the PADD. He had been shocked in the courtroom when he heard the charges had been reduced at Julian's request. After finding this out, he had requested to see the statement that Julian had sent down. Perhaps...perhaps he isn't the monster my people would believe. Perhaps I am wrong.' Garak glanced back at the PADD again. Yes, I do believe I understand what you were trying to tell me that day doctor.' Garak smiled wryly. "I do believe I understand," he murmured.

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