Home on the Range Part II "
By: Miranda, Lounge Manager, [RNPC]
Jonathan Wright, Executive Officer, [PC]

Stardate: 58205.13 0013

Wright looked at the Sun, it was slowly approaching the horizon. It would be time to call it a day soon. A few steers began to stray away from the herd. Wright gave a whistle to Jake and he darted off in their direction and skillfully chased them back towards the rest of the herd. Wright smiled as the shaggy dog returned. "Good boy," he said. "How about a song Jake."

The dog cocked his head to the side and then to his surprise Wright began to sing began to sing.

"I'm a roaming cowboy, riding all day long Tumbleweeds around me sing their lonely song Nights underneath a prairie moon, I ride alone and sing a tune. See them tumbling down, Pledging their love to the ground, Lonely but free I'll be found Drifting along with the tumbling tumbleweeds. Cares of the past are behind, Nowhere to go but I'll find Just where the trail will wind, Drifting along with the tumbling tumbleweeds. I know when night has gone that a new world's born at dawn, I'll keep rolling along, Deep in my heart is a song, Here on the range I belong, Drifting along with the tumbling tumbleweeds. Drifting along with the tumbling tumbleweeds."

As the notes of his song drifted off Wright smiled and looked to Jake, "What, no applause?"

Jake barked and ran off after yet another stray steer.

***

Miranda rode along with the herd. So far the day had been uneventful. The sun was getting ready to set and the herd had slowed to cross a small creak. Miranda rode across the creek. Dawson's son Billy was waiting for her. It seemed to Miranda that he had following her all day. "Hello again Billy," said Miranda sweetly.

"Hello Miss Miranda," said Billy, "Pa said we will be making camp once the herd gets across the river." Billy frowned and looked bothered by something.

"Thank you Billy," said Miranda, "Is something wrong?"

Billy looked at her, "Be careful Miss Miranda, some of the boys are mighty unhappy. They don't think a woman belongs here."

"How do you feel about that Billy?"

"Well, at first I agreed with them Ma'am," said Billy, "But I have spent most of the day riding with you and, well..." he blushed, "I sort of like you now Ma'am."

Miranda laughed gently, "Well, thank you for letting me know Billy, and do not worry, I can take care of myself."

"I am sure you can Ma'am," said Billy smiling again.

"Let's go help set up camp for the night.

***

Wright sat nest to the campfire. He was tired after spending the whole day in the saddle. Cookie had fed the crew and now the was night was quiet; off in the distance Wright could hear a cowboy playing a harmonica. He pulled a sharpening stone from his shirt pocket and began to work on the curved part of his hook.

Miranda entered the camp site and took a drink from the water barrel. She looked over at Wright and started to walk over to him when her way was blocked by one of the other guys.

"How about you fetch me a glass of water woman," he said.

"How about you get our of my way," replied Miranda.

Tension suddenly filled the camp site and all was very quiet, the only sound was the scraping of Wright's sharpening stone against his hook.

"That's not very friendly, I just want to be friendly,' he laughed as he put his arm around her a pulled her closer to him. Miranda could hear the chuckling of his buddies who were now watching.

Miranda could not help but thing that this holodeck program was almost too perfect. Whoever wrote it even got the foul smell of this guys breath down right. She quickly brought her knee into the man's groin and shoved him to the ground. Miranda drew her gun and pulled the hammer back. "If you touch me again, I will kill you cowboy."

There was a long silence as the man got off the ground. He spat at Miranda, "This ain't over yet," he growled and returned to his buddies.

Miranda holstered her gun and walked over to Wright. "Evening," she said.

"Hello, I see you have been making new friends."

"Yeah, I guess so." Miranda sat down. Jake moved closer to her and stuck his head in her lap. Miranda absently scratched his ears. "Dawson's kid has been tagging along with me all day."

"He is a young boy and you are the only woman around for miles, I am not surprised," said Wright.

Miranda smiled, "Yeah well, he warned me that a few of the guys did not like that I was along."

"You watch yourself," said Wright.

"Don't worry about me," she said standing up, "I can handle it. I am going to turn in. Good night."

"Night sis," said Wright. He watched as she walked away. "Jake," said Wright to the dog, "Keep an eye on her." The dog gave a quiet woof and padded off after Miranda.

OOC: The song "Tumbling Tumbleweeds" is written by Gene Autry and the Sons of the Pioneers.

The Price of Passion "
By: Teilani Dane, Chief Medical Officer, [PC]
Melissa Jarvis, Chief Security Officer, [RNPC]
Korg , Klingon Security , [NPC]

Stardate: 58205.13 0500

Melissa woke the next morning, her body ached, but she felt great. In fact, it was the best she had felt in a very long time. She looked around the holodeck, but Korg was no longer there. She gathered the remnants of her workout clothes and put them back on.

Melissa limped to the door. She knew that she would have to pay for a night of passion with a Kligon, however, it was worth it. She slowly and painfully made her way to sickbay. She was not certain what she would tell the good doctor, but he needed to get herself fixed up; she would think of something. Melissa limped into sickbay and looked for the doctor.

Teilani was checking the read out of cloning process when from the corner of her eye she noticed Melissa limping in.

"Miss Jarvis," Teilani said as she came walking towards her.

Melissa tried to smile, but her swollen lips would not allow it. "Hello Doc. Wonderful morning isn't it?"

Teilani carefully put her arm around Melissa's waist and helped her to main sickbay. Carefully she helped her lying down on the bio bed. Only for a second Teilani looked at the battered and bruised face from Melissa before she turned around and took her tricorder from a shelf.

"Another trainingexcercise Ms Jarvis?" she asked as she ran the scanner along Melissa's body

"Oh no," said Melissa "Much better than that.

Teilani tapped some controles on the biobeds side and a diagnostical console slowly appeared over Melissa. "You have some cracked ribs on the left side, a torn muscle in your back." Teilani calmly stated.

Melissa nodded.

Taking a dermal regenerator she walked over to Melissa's head. Gently she pushed her face to the left and began to work on a bite mark. Teilani was not stupid, she had seen these marks before and she could not help smiling.

"What are you smiling at?"

"It's nothing Miss Jarvis," she said softly. "But klingon passion can be dangerous. I hope it was worth it."

Melissa was surprised that the doctor figured it out so quickly. "Oh yes, it was worth it doc."

Teilani's experience soon managed to heal the bruises and the bite marks. "I am going to give you some inaprovaline for your muscles and a light painkiller.

"Thanks Doc," said Melissa. As Melissa sat up, Korg limped sickbay. Their eyes locked, a low growl briefly escaped Korg's throat. "Excuse me doctor," began Korg, "when you are finished with Lieutenant Jarvis, I believe I also require your assistance."

Melissa looked at Korg, He was also covered in swollen bruises and dried blood.

Teilani noticed the glances between Melissa and Korg. "Of course Mr Korg, I will be with you in a minute, please have a seat on biobed 2."

Korg limped over to the biobed, never taking his eyes off Melissa. He sad down and waited for the doctor.

Teilani turned her attention to Melissa. "Miss Jarvis I now order you to take it easy for a day or two. You need to give your ribs time to heal" Teilani said softly. "Is there any else you need? she continued with a smile.

Melissa cast a quick glance at Korg and then said, "No, thank you doctor."

Teilani nodded. "Excuse me then, time for Mr Korg." She took her tricorder and walked over to Korg. He was a big Klingon and kinda handsome for a Klingon and Teilani could understand that what Melissa could have seen in him.

Melissa smiled at Korg as she left sickbay.

"Please lie down Mr Korg," she said, scanning his vital signs. Her tricorder indicate that he too had many bruises, one cracked rib and some torn muscles in his triceps, a bite mark on the innerside of his lower lip of his face gave it a final finish.

Korg did as he was requested.

"Please turn your head to the right Mr Korg and open your mouth a little," she asked politely. Using the regenerator Teilani quickly healed the bitemark. Slowly working her way down his body she took care of the various injuries. Finalizing his treatment she injected him with some inaprovaline to speed up the healing process.

"How you feel now?" she asked softly. "You will be alright Mr Korg, and may i say that you and Miss Jarvis make a handsome couple." she whispered with a smile around her lips.

"I feel wonderful," said the klingon, "She is an amazing woman."

Teilani nodded as she finished the treatment. "Don't worry nobody will know."

"That is much appreciated doctor."

Teilani closed her tricorder and put away the hypospray. "Your going to be fine Mr Korg. Have a good day."

Sherlock and the case of the suspicious list "
By: Samantha Carter, Security Officer, [RNPC]
Klingon Crew , CSO , [NPC]

Stardate: 58205.13 1000

Zarg approached Carter, stepping over Larch's body. "Are you okay Sam Carter?" he asked.

Sam nodded as she brushed off some of Larch pieces from her uniform.

Zarg looked at his kill. Bending down he pulled something from Larch's utility belt. Standing back up, he smiled at Carter, "Larch hated poetry" he said in jest as he walked to an intercom terminal. "Security to deck 4 section 2"

"You have much courage for a human female." he said as security personnel descended on them from all sides.

From down the corridor Sam could see Drek, the klingon security chief walking up the hall, he walked authoratively with his hands clenched behind his back.

He looked over Larch's body and then gave regarded Sam with a grunt. "What has happened here?" he snarled.

"Larch became violent and tried to kill me,Sir." Sam looked at the body. "Zarg made sure he did not succeeded."

"Is that so?" he said circling around Sam and Zarg. "Yes Sir," replied Zarg.

Sam's eyes darted from Zarg to Drek.

Drek came to an abrupt halt inches in front of Zarg's face. "I am sure you relished the opportunity."

He brought the back of his hand across Zarg's face. Zarg took the blow with out flinching. "Take him to the debriefing room." he ordered nodding his head.

Drek's head snapped toward Sam, "and you! go to my office and wait for me there."

Sam was escorted to the Security Chief's office. Where after what seemed an hour,Drek entered.

He sat down and crossed his arms as he leaned back in his chair. "Tell me everything he said."

"About Larch you mean? Sam said. "He said that he hated me and that humans were weak and that the weak should be removed. Thats about it, Sir"

"Dismissed" he said as stood up, "try and stay out of trouble," he said with a little softer tone of voice.

"Sir, what about Zarg?"

"Zarg has been confined to his quarters until the inquiry is completed."

"He saved my life, Sir" Sam said softly as she left Dreks office. Knowing a little about the Klingons she wondered if that would make any difference at the inquiry.

As she was walking down the hall, a female Klingon officer walked around the corner and bumped her hard enough to knock her down. "Look out where you are walking!" she said reaching down to help her. She pulled Sam up easily.

The klingon woman looked back and forth up the hallway, and handed her a klingon memory chip. "You dropped this." she said loudly. Leaning forward she whispered, "Zarg said to give this to you, and to tell you not to read it in a terminal connected to the mainframe."

"Thanks," Sam said loudly. The female Klingon nodded and walked away. Sam looked at the memory chip. More mysteries, what was going on?

If she remembered the layout of the D-Kuul correctly there was an old cargo bay, according tot he ships scematics that terminal was disconnected from the main frame.

Whisling a small tune Sam walked towards the nearest turbolift. "Deck 26," she said. There were no stops along the way and before she knew it the lift halted. Quickly leaving she walked up to the old steel doors, it indeed looked like if nobody ever came here. She looked up and down the hallway and hit the doorchime. With a loud hiss the door opened and Sam walked in. There int he far corner was an old console, wires were hanging out, and from the looks of it some one had emptied a disrupter on it.

She entered the memory chip in the console and after tying some wires to gether she began to read.

As Sam did not read cardassian she managed to get the old terminal translated the memory ship what appeared to be a list of names and contacts.

Sam gasped it looked like some of the names were sympatizing with the cardassian, she even recognized some of the names as being on the ships manifest. The list went on and on untill finally she reached the end.

Sam grabbed an empty container and sat down, still looking at the console displaying the list of names. What could she do, this information was vital if she managed to give this information to the Klingon High counsel or even to Maqui command it would eliminated a good portion of spies.

On the other hand who could she now trust in asking this or even telling what she had just found out. Perhaps she could ask Drek. Sam grabbed the memory chip from the console and hide it under her uniform. She brushed her hands through her hair and took some deep breaths.

Sam remembered Zarg telling her not to go to the Captain, however, she needed to get this information to someone. At the moment Drek would be the logical choise.

== Security office==

Sam watched Drek sitting at his desk. "Sir, I have something you should look at as she handed him the chip."

Drek frowned as he took the chip from Carter, "What is this?" he asked gruffly.

"A memory chip, containing some vital information.

"Is that so?" Drek slid the chip into his terminal and started reading.

"Some of these are my best men. Am I to believe this information? Is this some kind of trick?" barked Drek.

He stepped over to Carter, "Where did you get this?" Drek's voice was harsh and demanding.

"It does not matter where I got it Sir, point is that this information is too important to be ignored." Sam stated as she looked Drek in the face, not backing away.

"Can you guarantee me Carter," Drek said. "That this information is true?"

"There are no guarantees Sir, so there is only one way to find out Drek," Sam said as she studied his reaction. There was an ichy feeling in the back of her neck, it would be bad to ignore it.

"What if certain information is leaked perhaps we could lure some of them out of hiding so that you can apprehand them, interrogate them and be done with it."

Drek scratched his chin thoughtfully and with a grunt, "It may work. I will requistion what you need so as not to arouse suspicions. You wait in my office until I return. Understood?"

Drek stood up and went to the door. When it opend he said, "Seal my office, voice authorization Drek Q'pach-9-ga-iggota." stepping outside he cracked a grin as the door slammed shut.

Sam watched Drek leave and something was not right. Why did he seal the door? Sam walked over to his console and looked at the memory chip. She could not find his name on it, but then again....

Uncle Brexen "
By: Patia Zoei, Chief Counselor, [PC]
Brexen Refelian , DrDanes uncle , [NPC]

Stardate: 58205.13 1050

=Location USS Tiberius=

Brexen had finished his weekly staff meeting and was about to get someting to eat from the replicator when the computer interrupted him, announcing he had an incoming message.

"Computer display message."

******* Dear Mr Refelian,

My name is Lieutenant Junior Grade Patia Zoei. I am currently serving as the ship's Chief Counselor for the USS Zion. Dr. Teilani Dane is serving on board this ship as well. Dr. Dane is doing well, however, I am trying to reach her family. I understand you may be able to assist me in this process. I would appreciate your assistance at your convenience.

Please contact me directly with any questions you may have.

Sincerely,

Lieutenant Junior Grade Patia Zoei USS Zion ********

Brexen read the message again. It had been many months he had heard any news from his little god daughter. He frowned, he wondered what happend that a counselor was seeking his assistence.

Computer record message"

***** to Counselor Patia Zoei USS Zion

Dear Counselor Zoei

Thank you for your message. I am glad to hear that Teilani is doing fine but i guess that is not the reason of your communication. Has my favorite redhead been into trouble? How can I be of any assistance. Feel free to contact me at any time.

Brexen Refelian

**** Computer sent message. A small chirp indicated that the message had been sent. Brexen leant back in his chair. He wondered. What could be wrong, why would this counselor need information about his god daughters family. All he could do now is wait.

***** Location USS Zion

Mere moments after sending the message to Brexen Refelian, Zoei's computer sounded an incoming message. Quickly, she scanned the message.

"Computer, begin dictation.

Dear Mr. Refelian,

Dr. Dane is not in any trouble, nor has any trouble found her. This may be more easily handled by way of a call rather than exchange of written communication. If this is acceptable to you, please advise when it would be convenient for you. I am in the office for the next four hours today. Tomorrow, I have an open schedule. I look forward to hearing from you.

Counselor Zoei

Computer, end dictation."

Patia reviewed the memo. Again, it was in order.

"Computer, send message to Brexen Refelian, USS Tiberius."

*****

Finally Brexen had managed to get his coffee from the replicator and after singing of some padds he again was alarmed by a pending message. Having read it Brexen frowned.

"Computer open a subspace channel to the USS Zion, Counselor Patia Zoei."

As the channel opened, Zoei announced. "Patia Zoei."

"Goodmorning Ms Zoei," Brexen said as she saw Patia's features appear on the console. "How may I help you?"

"You must be Mr. Refelian. Dr. Dane speaks highly of you. She also said you could be trusted and she authorized me to speak with you. I understand you have known her, and her family, for many years. I also understand, she has been estranged from her family for a period of years as well. Dr. Dane is very interested in hearing news of them. She would like to reestablish contact, but fears their rejection. I have offered to act as an intermediary, but she is not sure where her siblings are currently located. She thought you might be able to point us in the right direction to track them down."

Brexen sighed. "Lots of things happened between Lani and her family Counselor, it might be difficult to get contact going. Especially with her older brother he might not want to. Despite the war both her sister and her brother are still on Mars, I will sent you the coordinates shortly."

"Counselor," Brexen said. "How is she holding up? Has she spoken about her younger brother Eric? She was devistated when she heard he was missing, she blamed her self for it. Do you know if she is seeing anybody? Has she got any friends? It is been a long time since I have seen my god daughter Counselor."

"To be frank, right now is a trying time for her. She thinks often of Eric, and it weighs on her. As far as I have know, she is not seeing anyone. At least, she hasn't mentioned anyone. She does have several friends on board. She is on duty today, Sir. She would be easy to get in touch with if you would like."

Brexen smiled. " I would appreciate that Counselor."

"I appreciate the information regarding Dr. Dane's family. They can certainly choose not to renew any involvement with her, but at least she won't be worrying about a lost opportunity." Patia inclined her head slightly.

Brexen chuckled as he leant forward a bit. " I dont know if you have noticed it yet Counselor but Lani can be very stubborn and tenacious as is her older brother. I am sending you the coordinates now Counselor so that you or Lani may contact them when ever you or she pleases.

The old man sighed. " Too many families have been ripped apart during the War, Counselor, the Danes are a small family and I certainly don't want to see any heartship between them. Many things remain unspoken and need to be addressed with a silk glove. Does Lani know that her parents are dead? The news only reached me a couple of months ago, their shuttle was discovered in the Badlands. I dont know if she can handle this news Counselor, you have to judge for your self if she is ready to receive this information.

Suddenly there was a lot of static on the screen. " Counsel............, information.........Rura Penth....Eric will be...............Tell her to forget and forg................. plasmastorm........ bad connection.

Brexen out........

Patia gazed at the screen where moments before Teilani's godfather's face had been. There were some days where being the counselor was not all it was cracked up to be. She had a bad feeling today was one of those day. Now, to find Teilani.

Rura Penthe #103"
By: Patia Zoei, Chief Counselor, [PC]
Teilani Dane, Chief Medical Officer, [PC]

Stardate: 58205.13 1300

Patia put her head in her hands. Teilani's godfather had said it would be up to her if she felt Dr. Dane was ready to hear the news about her parents. Unfortunately, there never is a good time to share news like that. Not advising her of her loss when it came to light could cause a loss of trust when Teilani found out Patia had known for some time. As poor as the time was right now, it was truly the only time to share the news.

"Computer, locate Dr. Teilani Dane."

"Doctor Dane is in science lab 1,"the reply came

Zoei to Dane

Dane here.

Teilani, when you have a moment, please stop at my office.

Of course Patia

Teilani wondered what was wrong, or at least what the problem was. Patia's voice over the con sounded serious. Teilani looked at the cloned arm. She had replaced the gelnutrition and adjusted the vital statistics. The growth rate had reduced some what but due to the schematics Commander Wrights arm would be finished a little sooner than anticipated.

She walked over to a little washroom and sterilized her hands, when she looked up in the mirror she was a bit startled. The face which looked back at her was that of a stranger, black circles under her eyes which looked somewhat sad. She looked pale and her hair had somehow lost the natural volume and gloss.

Teilani shook her head and splashed some water in her face. It was not the time to be giving in to vanity. She cleaned up the mess and left the science lab.

Slowly walking through the Zion’s corridors her mind started to wander; perhaps Patia had found her family. Perhaps she had been in contact with them. She sighed. There were a lot of perhaps.

Finally she reached Patia's office and Teilani hit the door chime.

"Enter," Patia called.

"Good morning Patia, you wanted to see me?"

"Good morning, Teilani. Yes, I did." Patia rose gracefully from her chair. She gestured to the sitting area. "Please, have a seat."

Teilani walked over to the big couch and sat down, rigid, her hands clutched nervously together in her lap.

Pausing at the replicator, Patia stated, "Jamaican blend, double hot, double sweet. Raspberry iced tea." As the glass and mug materialized, she picked them. She crossed to the sofa and handed Teilani the steaming mug of coffee. Slowly, she settled into her chair and tucked her feet up under her.

"Teilani, I am not sure how to say this without sounding funny, but you don't quite look like you. You look haggard. Have you had someone take a look at you? Make sure you are physically ok?"

Teilani shook her head in denial. "I 'm fine, sickbay has been very busy. Security has had some extra training and they were in need of treatment." Teilani took a sip from the hot coffee, her hands were shaking a little, and she had been living on caffeine for the last few days.

"I am just very tired and I don’t seem to be able to relax but it will pass I 'm sure of it."

"It looks like there is more to it than that, Teilani. I would not be helping you, either as a friend or as the ship's counselor, if I did not bring this up. Teilani, you need to have someone take a look at you. You will be of no use to yourself or this crew if you don't take care of yourself." Patia leaned slightly forward. "Promise me you will take care of that as soon as you leave my office, and promise me you will let someone other than you run the tricorder."

Teilani's green eyes looked at Patia. "I will, I promise. Teilani smiled. "Now what was it you wanted me to see you about?"

Patia smiled slightly. "I will hold you to that promise." Patia shifted back into her chair. "I was able to reach your Uncle Brexen today."

"You did??" Teilani's face lit up. "How was he? Where is he now, is he alright? Did he know..... Teilani asked hesitantly. Hopefully she looked at Patia.

"He is good. He is still on the USS Tiberius and would be happy to be contact with you again. Tell me, how did you lose touch with each other?" Patia asked.

Teilani wrapped her hands around the hot coffee mug. The warmth of it caressed her hands, which of late were cold.

"You know how it goes Patia, first the Academy putting it off until one has more time and before you know it months have passed. Then a first assignment same thing and before you know so many time has passed that it would perhaps be inappropriate to contact one after such a long time."

"Ah, yes. I can understand that very well. Our conversation was cut off when he went through an area of disturbance. I had suggested he get in contact with you, but please do not hesitate to contact him. He sounded very receptive. He also told me your brother and sister was still on Mars. If you like, I can attempt to contact them today?"

Teilani nodded. "I had not expected it to go so quickly Patia. I am a bit nervous. What would they say? I mean, well you know." Teilani shifted her weight, then she bent down and removed her shoes, she pulled up her legs and tucked them underneath her. She reached to the left and took the fluffy pink pillow again.

"The hard part is we do not know what they would say. We won't know that until we ask them. If this is too fast, I can wait. This is for you, so your schedule is the one we will abide by." Patia smiled gently.

Teilani smiled nervously to Patia. She had to think about it. "It’s better to get it over and done with Patia. My crew can handle sickbay." Teilani shifted on the couch; finally she got up and walked to the replicator. "Coffee, black extra strong. With a new mug in her hand she walked back and looked outside of the view port.

She took a deep breath as she turned back to Patia. "Let’s do it."

Patia nodded. "Your Uncle Brexen had some news about your parents as well."

"He did," Teilani said with a cheer. "How are they? Where are they now? Teilani smiled brightly. "You know Patia I think that all will be fine now, I mean when contact has been made, finding mom and dad and perhaps even Eric slowly Teilani's voice trailed off as she noticed that Patia did not join in her cheerful mood.

Teilani felt a coldness creeping up inside her. "There is something wrong isn't there Patia?" she asked with a small whisper.

"Mr. Refelian said their shuttle was found in the Badlands several months ago. There were no survivors, Teilani."

The mug with coffee shattered on the floor as it slipped from Teilani's hands. She felt silent, and tried to find her balance by leaning against the wall.

Patia slowly stood. "I am so very sorry for your loss." She spread her arms wide as she walked toward Teilani.

Teilani almost threw herself into Patia's arms and she broke. All the pain, the worries, the hardship welled up inside her and she cried. Tears ran across her face, she could not stop. With a sobbing voice a muffling sound came from Patia's shoulder. "What must I do Patia? I feel so lost." Teilani freed herself from Patia's hug and walked over to the couch. She sat down in a corner and pulled up her knees embracing them with her arms and resting her head on top of them.

"What if, she sniffed, what if my family does not want contact Patia, what then? What’s the use of living then?

"First, there is no point in dealing with those 'what if's' right now, Teilani. Let's cross that bridge, when, or if, you come to it. I want you to take a moment now, though, and think about your life. What is your purpose in life? What are your goals? What do you love about living?" Patia settled into her chair again, and pulled her feet up under her.

Teilani remained silent for a while; an occasional tear ran down her cheek. "My purpose in live, hmmm I exist cuz there for I am," she responded. "I want people, my family, this crew to be proud of me, but I guess first step is that I have to be proud of my self. I want to be remembered as someone who tried to make a difference. Not only in the way of medicine but also in the way people think about each other. My biggest goal is to find my brother, that is what I am living for now. I want to feel whole again, I want to feel the warmth of a family."

"You know Patia," Teilani whipped away a tear. "When I was little things seemed to be so simple. And now everything is changed. Lots of people or even crew I speak with have become bitter and hard. It all used to be so simple in the early days before the war. Hearing the robins sing was enough to put a smile on ones face. Now there are hardly any robins left. Families have been torn apart, brothers fight against each other and for what.

"Yes, things have changed in our lifetime. I wonder, though, how simple it was when we were small. Or does it just seem like it was simple because our families protected and shielded us? Each generation faces its own challenges, but I agree this one is a serious threat. Unfortunately, Teilani, I don't have any answers to the questions I know you will have about your parents. Your uncle may be able to help you out with that a little more."

Teilani nodded as her sad eyes looked at Patia. "I would not know what to ask him Patia. It has been so long you know. However, the human mind and body are resilient I just have to learn to give it a little place and keep on living."

Patia nodded. "I would agree they are. I also think, though, when you have the opportunity to speak with him, the questions will come."

Teilani smiled as she reached for her shoes and putting them back on. "If you would excuse me Patia, I have to get back to work."

"My door is always open if you need to talk. Don't forget, you promised to have someone else check you over, also," Patia smiled slightly.

"I know," Teilani said softly as she walked to the door. "Patia will you be contacting my brother and sister?" Perhaps it is easier when you break the ice so to speak." Teilani looked hopefully at Patia; her face was all swollen and puffy.

"Of course. I will let you know once I have reached them." Patia rose gracefully from her chair. She watched Teilani leave her office. That would have been a terrible blow for anyone, but the doctor already looked tough.

Never talk back against a Klingon "
By: Samantha Carter, Security Officer, [RNPC]
Drek , Chief Security Officer , [NPC]

Stardate: 58205.13 1310

Location Security office D-kuul.

Sam had been waiting in Drek's office for hours so it seemed as she noticed him entering. He set on his desk a case which he promptly opened. He handed a device to Carter which looked like a jewel set in a metal box with a chain loop attached to it.

"Here" said Drek, "Put this on your neck."

When it was on her neck, Drek took out another device it was wedge shaped device. He set it on his desk. Next he produced a small hand held control device.

"This device a holo-emitter I confiscated from a dead Tal Shiar."

He looked back at Carter and cracked a smile. When he activated the device a solid holographic image of Carter appeared across the room. The image mirrored everything that Carter did.

He smiled and made a few more adjustments. A holographic wall appeared, concealing Drek.

Drek stepped through the wall and approached the holographic image of Carter, he waved his hand through the image.

"This will not fool anyone for but a few moments." he said. "If you volunteer to be my bait-targ, it will still be very dangerous.

Sam nodded as did the holo-Sam. "I understand but what is your plan. I am not going to sit here as a sitting duck." Sam started pacing. "You must have some idea who is going to fall for this trap."

"Isn't it much better to leave it and hand the information over to the High Counsel an let them deal with it. Or why not give it to the Captain."

Drek approached Sam face to face, his lip was stiffened in anger. "These are good warriors... who have fought bravely... and with honor. I will not mock them with false accusations."

He turned from her and paced several steps away. He looked at Sam over his shoulder, "but if your accusations are true....I will not tolerate their shortness in loyalty to the Empire....so help me Kahless."

"I am not chickening out Drek, but have you thought of the other possibilities?"

Drek clenched his fist and spun around. "I'm not here to play games Sam Carter. Your presence here has been an unwelcome disruption. I can not think of another way to prove your accusation." He turned again to Sam, his face was contorted in a fierce gaze. "If you have any other ideas, be forthcoming now."

Sam walked up to Drek, she had had it with this Klingon attitude. She was furious. Standing face to face with him she tapped him on the chest. "I am sick and tired of being the unwelcome roach here, tap, being spit on, stepped on, tap. I am putting my ass on the line, tap, for you. Tap. I, tap, am, tap, not in the mood, tap of getting my self killed." Tap.

She finally stopped tapping him on the chest and placed her hands on her hips, her eyes spun fire and if it was possible Drek would have been incinerated at the spot.

"Now for the glory and the honour of the Empire Drek. Get this over with!"

Drek could not contain himself any further. He struck Sam hard with the back of his hand, enough to send her reeling. He grabbed her by the throat. "I will not tolerate insubordination.

He grabbed her upper arm firmly and removed the holo device as he dragged her out the door, "We will do this another way." he said. He dragged her out the door and across the corridor into the brig. "Lower the force field" he barked at a guard. When the field was lowered he shoved Carter as hard as he could into the cell. He nodded at the guard who activated the force field.

As Sam was about to say something but Drek shouted back at her, "Silence! Do not speak!" That is an order!"

He turned and barked at the guard. "No one is to come in. No one is to visit." The guard nodded his acknowledgment."

After Drek left, the security guard regarded Carter with an evil smirk. He pressed the com button, "Carter is in the brig."

Sam rubbed her behind as she got up and walked towards the forcefield. She felt her face, from the bruise of it it looked like she was going to have a nice blackeye.

"Great, nice going Samantha," she mumbled. "Now what you do!?"

Soft Lips "
By: Patia Zoei, Chief Counselor, [PC]
Giuseppe Silvio, Chief Engineer, [RNPC]

Stardate: 58205.13 1800

Patia leaned back against the seat. Outside the window, stars streaked past. A lot had happened over the past several days. It was a lot to wrap her mind around. It was a bit unusual for her to be thinking about her life rather than the lives of the people who stopped in her office on a daily basis.

The nerves along her spine jangled. Slowly, she turned. Silvio walked into Miranda's with several people she did not know. From the looks of how they interacted, her guess was they were from Engineering as well. He looked very young and quite carefree.

She turned back to face the window and tilted her head slightly so it rested against the back of the seat. Her hands cupped the tall glass of icy tea, the vessel slippery from the condensation. Silently, she sighed.

*** Silvio's shift was finally over and he and the crew decided to go to Miranda's for a drink. Miranda's was a busy place. They found a table and sat down. The waitress came over to take their order. One of the young engineers asked if Miranda was available and was told she had the day off. Silvio could actually see that the young ensign was dissappointed.

The other members of the crew also sensed his disappointment; they stated teasing him about it. Silvio, found he could empathize with the young ensign.

The drinks came and the conversation turned to work. Silvio rarely went out for drinks with other engineers. He hated finishing his shift only to go to Miranda's to talk about it again. Silvo soon stopped listening to the conversation and became lost in his own thought.

***

Off and on, Silvio's voice had filtered across the room to Patia's ears. She hadn't heard what he had said, but the timber of his voice was distinctive, especially when it was wreaking havoc with her nerves. It had been a long, long day and it was most assuredly time for her to retire to her quarters.

Abruptly, she set her glass down and rose from her seat. As she stood, a large Klingon male brushed past her. His bulk pushed against her, forcing her back into the side of the bench from which she had just risen. Brusquely, she stood to her full, not so large, height and purposefully brushed against him on her way past him. The gall of dominant species sometimes irritated her. It wasn't like she didn't have the right to be there, he was just bigger and stronger. As such, he had an air of entitlement to any and all space he deemed his.

Distracted, she strode from Miranda's. Her steps were quick and sure. Never once did her eyes stray from the door on the other side of the room as she approached it.

***

"Hey, look at her," said Ensign Casey. Silvo looked up in the direction he was pointing to just in time to see Patia leave Miranda's. He had not known she was there. "That counselor is one hot number. I would not mind taking her for a roll between the sheets."

Silvio made a mental note that Ensign Casey might need to start working more double shifts. He did not like the way he talked about Patia as if she were on a menu.

"Yeah Casey," said Thomas, "I hear sex with Betazoid women is a wild experience. All that emotional stuff they can do."

Sivio made another mental change to his duty schedule.

"Well, maybe I might just have a bad nightmare and have to go visit her," offered Casey, "What do you think Chief?"

Silvo did not smile. He was very angry inside and not all he wanted was to see Patia. He held back his anger and looked at Casey. "I have to admit, I am surprised Casey, I thought you preferred guys."

There was a stunned silence at the table. Casey's mouth dropped open. Silvio was not sure if he had hit the target with his observation or if Casey was just shocked that he has said it. "If you will excuse me, I have a few changes to make to the duty roster for next week." Silvio got up and left.

Once outside Miranda's Silvio looked around hoping that Patia was still around; not seeing her Silvio went back to his office and sat down. He actually did have to work on his duty roster. Although it was tempting to give Casey a few double shifts, he wouldn't really apply his personal feelings to the staffing schedule.

***

Patia settled into her quarters for the night. She slipped into an old sweat suit from Lio's alma mater. He had given it to her shortly after he went away to school. Their parents had laughed when she put it on. The sleeves hung well below her knees and the pant legs puddled on the floor around her feet. She had cried buckets when she realized it was so much too big for her. Then her parents had given her the matching one in the correct size. The one she was wearing was their mother's. Silly girl that she was, she refused to give it back. Fortunately, her mother didn't argue with her about it. More fortunately, it didn't proclaim her to be a "Proud Mother".

She settled cross legged on the middle of the mat on the floor. Slowly, deliberately, she began going through her yoga routine. Her movements graceful, she attempted to clear her mind. Thoughts of Silvio kept flitting across her consciousness, though. Resolutely, she shook them off and arched her back. Slowly, she brought her foot up to touch the back of her head. Why could she not sense anything about Silvio other than his presence. She had no inclination, no understanding of anything he was thinking. It was almost as if there was a block between them. Her right leg returned to the floor and she stretched her left foot up, also touching the back of her head. This had never happened to her before and it was quite uncomfortable.

Her breathing had quickened and she realized she was not focused on her yoga. Quietly, she exhaled. She rolled to her side and propped her left arm underneath her. She raised her upper body from the floor and stretched her right arm over her head. What was it about him that kept drawing her thoughts back to him. He was young, and admittedly loved the ladies. He said he was over that, but how many times had he said that before, how many women had heard it?

She brought her right arm back, so it was straight above her head. Slowly, she pulled it down so it passed below her rib cage. Her fingers stretched and reached behind her back. Why couldn't she get him off her mind?

Slowly, she exhaled, her breath fluffing the damp hair sticking to her sweaty forehead. There was no point in yoga today. She just could not gain her balance and center.

***

Silvio tried to complete his duty roster, however, he was really distracted. Thoughts of Patia kept interrupting his work. He wished he had known that she was there. It was no use, he would not be getting any work done tonight.

Silvio closed down his console and left his office. He decided to turn in for the night. He rose the turbolift up to deck two. As he made his way to his quarters he passed those of Patia's. Without giving it much thought he stopped and rang her door chime.

Patia laid on the mat. Although the yoga had not worked, she had continued with a few stretching exercises. The chime sounded and she slowly sat up. "Enter," she called.

Silvio entered and stood just inside the door. It looked like Patia was exercising. "Hi, ahh, I was going to turn in and I just thought I would stop in to say good night." Silvio was off balance, he did not know what had made him stop in the first place. "That was smooth," he thought.

Patia glanced at her chronometer. "So early? It is only 2000. Patia crossed her legs and braced her palms against her knees. Slowly she pressed her hands toward the floor. "It looked like you were having a good time at Miranda's. How come you are calling it a night?"

Silvio certainly was not going to tell her about the conversation they had at Miranda's. " I guess I was not into the conversation. I did not know you were there until I saw you walk out." Silvo strode over to where she sat on the floor and sat down across from her; close enough that their knees touched.

Patia was slightly startled at Silvio's close proximity. "I saw you when you came in. You seemed involved with a group of from your department, so I didn't want to bother you."

"It would not have been a bother," said Silvio, "in fact, I was not having much fun." Silvio sighed. "To be honest, I was thinking about you through much of the conversation anyway."

"Ah, I bet the people you were with appreciated your level of attention," Patia chuckled. "Or were they so busy talking shop and discussing their romance plans they didn't notice?"

"Something like that," said Silvio. "You have a nice place here," he said as he looked around."

"Thank you," Patia glanced around her quarters. "I wanted to make my standard issued space as much a part of me as I could. It helps to separate myself from my work."

"You have done a good job, it is very comfortable here." Silvio sighed. He reached out and took Patia's hands in his own. "Well, I just wanted to stop by as say good night." Silvio kissed her hand and got up to leave.

Patia blinked rapidly as she watched him go. This was most out of character for Silvio. And, surprisingly enough, she noted, that man had some soft lips.

Reconciliation "
By: Zarg , Officer , [NPC]
Samantha Carter, Security Officer, [RNPC]
Drek , Chief Security Officer , [NPC]

Stardate: 58205.13 1840

Carter had been sitting in the brig for five hours when four very large klingon warriors entered the confinement area and approached the guard. They talked in subdued voices. The guard behind the console nodded and took a step back from the console. He thrust his chin up proudly and stood with his hand at his side. "Qa'pla!" he said as the other adjusted his distruptor and fired it at him.

The guard slumped against the wall, heavily stunned.

They approached Carter. "Is today a good day for you to die?" thunderous laughter broke out.

Sam's head jerked up as the klingon spoke to her. She rose gracefully from the sleeping bunk and walked towards the forcefield.

She stood tall fixing her eyes on the klingon who spoke to her. lojmIt yIpoSmoH! HIja'. Heghlu'meH QaQ jajvam (roughly translated Open the forcefield, Yes it is a good day to die.)

Sam looked at the group. She blinked a few times, if it was her time so be it, but she was not going to show any fear. Her mind recited a small mantra. =Fear is the mindkiller, there is no fear=

One of the klingons went to the security console but could not lower the field. "It is malfunctioning!" he yelled. "Impossible" the other replied. He pushed the warrior out of the way and attempted to do the procedure himself.

Suddenly the door opened several warriors rushed in. Distruptor fire seared through air. A few moments later the two warriors lay dead on the floor. The other two severely stunned. Drek stepped through the door and walked through the smokey air. He kicked one of the stunned warriors hard. "Traitor!"

Drek motioned with his head. Other security officers dragged them away. He went to the console, and pressing a button said, "Lower the containment field voice authorization Drek." The system chirped and the containment field disappeared.

Drek stepped up to Carter, the towering klingon folded his arms across his chest. "The Zion will be here tomorrow morning to fetch you. You are confined to your quarters. Until then."

Sam nodded as she stepped out of the holding cell. She looked back at Drek and wanted to ask if he got all the sympatizers, yet he still seemed to be angry with her. She opened her mouth but Drek interrupted her.

"Go." said Drek.

Sam sighed as she walked back to her quarters. "Great Sammy girl," she muttered. " You have a good feel of making friends, NOT, it seemed that the last few days even weeks she only was capable of rubbing people the other way. She did not do it intentionally but deep inside her she wanted to be accepted as a fullfledged security officer and not some puny little woman which happend to wear a yellow uniform. Right now she wished she was back in the Intell department which seemed less complicated as being in Security.

It was a human thing to do to apologize to Drek for her behaviour. But on the otherhand it was not the Klingon way. She thought that she understood Klingons but the truth was that she didn't. Finally she reached her quarters.

==Carter's Quarters==

22:00

Carter's door chimed. It was Zarg. "My I come in?" he asked.

Sam smiled. "Your a sight for sorry eyes Zarg," she replied with a smile. "Sure come on in. I thought you were still confinded to your quarters."

"The inquiry was completed, Your crewmate Alyssa is at a going away celebration in the messhall. She will be gone for quite a while."

"Great," Sam said. "She gets to have all the fun and I am confined to my room."

He produced a small flask of bloodwine and a leather bound book and sat himself down on Carters bunk.

"How about some of that poetry?" he said with a smile.

Pouring some wine into a cup he handed it to Carter and raised his cup, "Qa'Pla!"

"Down the hatch," Sam responded as she emptied the cup in one sip. "Move over you big log," she said with a smile as she made her self comfortable on her bunk, she laid her head on Zarg's lap and closed her eyes.

"Read to me Zarg," she said softly. He opened the book and began to read, the warm and deep timbre of his voice vibrated in the room.

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