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The Woman Who Remembered, The Boy Who Forgot.

Episode 21

IDP 2021

By: Vakash Darkbane

Edited: Saurex Conoway

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“Commander Martinez? Please acknowledge. You have a priority one message from Starfleet Headquarters."

Harry groaned and winced as he sat up. The dermal patches on his back reminded him they were still covering the last of his plasma burns. He blinked heavily and tried to recall his surroundings or why he was on his couch.

“Commander Martinez, please acknowledge," the voice persisted.

Harry grimaced and leaned forward to hit the comm switch on the table, which was covered with model parts and small tools.

“What?" He growled. “I'm on medical leave. What could be so damn important?"

“It's a direct message from Admiral Conroy. I am not allowed to ask for any further information," said one of the Starbase's communications officers.

Harry sighed. “Fine. Give me a moment."

Teeth clenched, he got up and stiffly walked over to his desk. He was sure he didn't look the greatest, but that was their problem for calling someone trying to recuperate. Given how miserable he felt, he honestly didn't care about appearances.

He sat in his desk chair with a groan and activated his terminal. “Alright, patch it through."

“Very well, Commander."

His terminal briefly showed the Starfleet Headquarters insignia and then shifted to Admiral Conroy, who was seated at her desk.

“Good morning Commander," she said. “I hope you are recovering from your injuries."

“I am. It's just taking it's time. Plasma burns tend to heal slow." He said, trying to sound good humored.

“That's good to hear," the Admiral said with a smile. “You seem to be in a fair amount of discomfort, so I will be brief. In light of a slough of recent events across the Confederation, some of which you are aware of, others you may not be, we're coming up on a shortage of senior officers."

“I see." Harry was all too aware of the fact that any senior staff positions were getting harder to fill.

“After reviewing your record and with some insistence on behalf of the entire world of Altaira," Admiral Conroy punctuated the comment with a slight cringe. “It has been decided that you are to be promoted to the rank of Captain. Congratulations."

Harry sat up as if he'd been doused with a bucket of ice water and immediately regretted it as his body reminded him of his wounds.

“I trust you will not let us down, Captain." Conroy said coolly. “Carry on as you have and you will do fine."

“Yes, sir! Thank you, sir," Harry gasped, half out of shock and half out of pain.

“Your new standing orders will be sent to you momentarily as well as an update to your vessel's current responsibilities. Please review them immediately."

“Of course, Admiral."

“Conroy out."

The channel closed and Harry sat back in his chair with a slight wince. His head was spinning. That was not anything he had been expecting.

Captain, he mused to himself with a grin. Finally!

With everything that had happened, he had started to worry that he would never advance beyond Commander. Now the title was no longer an honorific for being the senior officer on his ship. It was the real deal. He was the real deal.

There were things that needed to be done. As quickly as he could, Harry dispatched a message to his staff, asking them to meet him on the Promenade for breakfast, if they were available.

* * *

Promenade Level, Starbase 186

Fara hobbled over to the table with her tray, moving stiffly with the aid of a cane she had fashioned from some old, small diameter coolant pipes. With a little snarl she sat her tray down on the table across from Harry. She groaned as she sat down and leaned her makeshift cane against the table.

“Good morning Fara," Harry said, smiling as she sat down.

“I really hope you have a good reason for waking me up," she grumbled.

“I do."

“You look chipper." She grunted as she tried to get comfortable.

“Just got some good news is all."

“Your brother finally have his kid?" Fara asked as she massaged her leg, trying to loosen up some of the muscles so she could relax.

“No, that's still a few months from now."

Fara just nodded. She stopped her massaging and sighed.

“I'm sorry, but my thigh is just killing me! Our sadist doctor assures me that it's healing, but he doesn't have to deal with the agony."

“Muscle spasms?" Harry asked.

Fara nodded and slowly started to pick at her food. She was halfway to her food when her eyes snapped up.

“Well, speak of the devil," she said, motioning with her fork.

“Good morning everybody!" Okan beamed as he approached. “I hope it's treated you both well?"

“So far, Doctor. You seem in a cheerful mood." Harry observed.

“I am. I just woke up feeling great and I'm riding the high," Doctor Okan said, taking a sip of his coffee. “Here's hoping it lasts!"

“We can only hope," Harry chuckled.

“So, why are you so elated, Harry? Did your dermal patches finally come off? I swear if you got me out of bed to celebrate a scab ...." Fara glared, brandishing her fork at him.

“No, nothing that miraculous." Harry quipped. “Then again, it may be."

“Well spit it out! I'm dying to know," Fara demanded.

“Have some patience." Harry smirked.

A mirthful grin flashed across Fara's muzzle and she gave him a playful glance as she took a bite out of her food.

“So, how did last night go?" Harry said, turning to Okan.

“Fortunately, we had no casualties or injuries." Doctor Okan said. “The passengers on the luxury liner were a little worse for wear, but the Paraxeno raiders were driven off and all were accounted for."

“That's always a plus. Score one for the good guys," Harry said, raising his glass of juice.

“Indeed, Commander." Doctor Okan noded.

O'mara and Rivas approached and sat at the table as well. O'mara yawned and looked tiredly at her breakfast.

“Are you ok, Lieutenant?" Harry asked.

“Too hungry to sleep, too tired to eat," she croaked, staring at her meal like she had been asked to dissect it. “This isn't going to take too long, is it? I feel like I'm going to pass out."

“It shouldn't," Harry said. “Commander, Doctor Okan tells me you had a fairly decent night last night?"

“It would have been better if we didn't have to deal with those damn bugs," Rivas said, taking a drink from his coffee. “But it could have been worse, right big guy?"

Everyone glanced over to Jakar, who had finally shown up with a rather menial breakfast of melon chunks and coffee.

"Correct, Commander," Jakar grunted.

Harry cleared his throat, drawing everyone's attention back to him as Jakar sat. “Since we're all here, I thought I would inform you that I got a very interesting call from Starfleet Command this morning. Starting today I am now, officially, a Captain."

Fara gasped as a ripple of surprise rushed around the table.

“Congratulations Harry!" She said, grinning.

“About damn time," Jakar grunted around a mouthful of melon.

“Hot damn!" Rivas cheered excitedly as he slapped the table, which startled O'mara, who shrieked in surprise. She shot him an incredulous look and flicked a few feathers off the table.

“Don't any of you know what this means?" Rivas asked excitedly.

He was met with blank stares and puzzled frowns.

Rivas sighed in frustration. “It means that we're free! We can explore without being told to and we don't have to babysit the Starbase anymore!"

“We will still be stationed here, but what he's saying is mostly true." Harry smiled. “Unless you all want to be cooped up on the Raptor indefinitely?"

“So, that means no more escort duties or dealing with Commandant Jackass?" Fara asked.

“He will be the Falcon's problem," Harry replied evenly. “The Falcon is being assigned to take over our primary duties here. Starfleet feels they could benefit from the experience."

“There are some places I wouldn't mind exploring, if no one minds," O'mara spoke up. “They're a bit outside of our territory though."

“Write it up and send it to me and we'll go check it out," Harry said.

“Really?!" O'mara chirped excitedly.

“Yes, really." Harry chuckled. “With the refit we received from Altairia, the Raptor is running better than she ever has and I feel confident we can venture out with little difficulty."

Everyone seemed rather excited at the new change of pace.

“Also, since I am a Captain now, I put in for promotions for all of my senior staff," Harry added. “Our ship's capacity is going to be increased and we are going to be taking on a lot of new people. We need to have a bit more distinction in our ranks."

Rivas's jaw dropped. “Wait...wait wait wait...did you just…?"

Harry nodded. “I did. Congratulations, Commander. In my opinion, it's long overdue. You deserve it, and you are welcome."

Rivas sat back in his chair with a goofy smile on his face. Just the rank bump in itself meant his chances of getting his own command someday were now significantly improved.

“D-d-d-does that mean I-I-I'm going to…?" O'mara stuttered, trying to process what she had just heard.

“Yes chickadee, it means you are now a department head. You've got minions now!" Fara smirked, “and a lot more work to do."

“Oh wow," O'mara muttered, eyes going wide with wonder. Other than herself, Lt. Plex and Doctor Okan, the science division aboard the Raptor was nonexistent. No one was really in charge. They just did their jobs, albeit most of the work as well. However, now she would have help, a staff, possibly even an expanded lab. The thought made her feathers start to floof up just a little.

“Sir, I appreciate the gesture, but I'll have to decline," Jakar said.

“Jakar, shut up," Harry sighed. “You've been a Lieutenant longer than most people stay in Starfleet."

“Well maybe I like being a Lieutenant," Jakar said, glaring over his coffee.

“Tough luck," Harry said, staring straight back. “Do you want to make it an issue?"

“No, sir...I suppose not." Jakar relented before sipping his coffee, eyes still locked on Harry.

“Since Starfleet now has faith in our little monster, she's going to get a little cramped," Harry continued.

“It really wasn't that bad on the Falcon," O'mara noted.

“So…wait...I'm going to be a full Commander?" Fara let out a whistle. “That's going to take some getting used to!"

“As long as you keep up the good behavior you'll be able to keep it," Harry smirked.

“No promises," Fara winked as she picked up her coffee.

"You will also have to trade in your yellows and golds for reds and maroons." Harry added.

"But that won't match my hair!" Fara whined mockingly.

"Starfleet regulation states that as senior staff of the Commander rank you have to wear the correct uniform." Jakar added dryly.

"Oh hush," Fara sighed, rolling her eyes. "Hang on! How come Okan doesn't have swap uniforms too if we're the same rank?"

Okan cleared his throat. "If I may, Captain?"

"Be my guest, Doctor," Harry said with a nod.

"The Science Division is exempt from most uniform regulations because there isn't so much crossover as with Command and Operations. Besides, if we changed uniforms none of you would know who to go to if you injure yourselves."

"Or encounter a subspace anomaly," O'mara yawned.

"Indeed. We have enough to do with keeping you all in good health and away from unexpected dangers." Okan concluded, raising his mug to Michelle.

Jakar snorted and Fara rolled her eyes, expecting Okan and Michelle to give each other a high five across the table.

"Anyways," Harry said, cutting off any lingering tangents. "It won't be so bad, Fara. If you think you're intimidating now, wait until you have the new colors on."

Fara grinned wickedly. "Well....I suppose I could adjust to it."

“Captain, if I may?" O'mara asked, raising her hand slightly and then dropping it. “If possible, we hardly ever use Cargo Bay 4. Could it be repurposed as a lab space?"

“I don't see why not. You're already cramped in that little room you've got," Harry said.

O'mara seemed on the verge of levitating out of her seat from sheer excitement. “Thank you, sir!"

Harry nodded. “So, like I said, I was keeping this brief. Does anybody have any questions?"

Everyone shook their heads and Harry nodded.

“Alright," he smiled, “that's all I got. Keep up the good work, all of you."

* * *

Ready Room, U.S.S. Falcon

Lieutenant Rayna-Ka glanced over her orders as she sat across from Harry at her desk.

“Well, I wasn't expecting this when I woke up this morning." She said, scrolling through them and frowning. “I guess whenever one captain gets good news, another gets bad."

“Believe me, I know how you feel," Harry said. “This is not exactly an ideal posting."

Rayna snorted. “I'm just a lowly Lieutenant on a boat full of ensigns and greenhorns! I go where they tell me."

“I provided reports on Comendant Xox because you may run into him." Harry said evenly. “Most of those reports are mine, a few are from Captain De'Sol though. I hope they'll come in handy."

“Believe me, I'll read them cover to cover," Rayna said, standing up and walking over to the replicator to make herself some more coffee. “He's reduced the Raptor to scrap twice and nearly killed your entire crew on multiple occasions. Also, if the reports are right, he nearly got you killed in a very direct manner. It would also seem he has a bone to pick with the starbase too, even going so far as building a," she glanced at a report as she sat back down, “junk cannon? Personally, he seems like a nut. What's your personal opinion on him, off the record?"

“He's dangerous, clever, and spiteful. Despite that he never seems...right...if that makes any sense? He isn't insane, just...well you read about the junk cannon." Harry shrugged. “Always keep an eye out for him, especially after you beat him for the first time. He has a habit of holding a grudge and popping up out of the blue."

Rayna nodded and took a sip of her coffee. She sat back, swirling the contents of the cup in her hand.

“Rumor has it he has quite the beef with you," she noted quietly. “Is there any particular reason for that?"

“I beat him," Harry said with a slight shrug. “In his mind I may as well have spit on his mother's grave."

“And now he wants you and the Raptor dead?"

“That's putting it mildly," Harry said. “Although it has been a while since anyone has heard from him. Come to think of it, there hasn't been much activity along the border as of late."

“I will agree with you on that," Rayna said. “The number of incursions as of late have gone down. Makes you wonder: what are they up to?"

“Whatever it is, it can't possibly be good." Harry groused.

“Another junk cannon?" Rayna grinned.

Harry couldn't help but chuckle. “I hope not. Just be careful. If he gets wind that the Raptor is no longer guarding the starbase he'll probably do something aggressive."

* * *

Starbase 186, Medical Bay

“Good morning, Doctor Okan." Doctor M'benga greeted him as he entered the starbase med bay.

“Morning. How is my patient?"

“No change, but being as we've never encountered an Aldari before now and have no records about them, it's hard to tell exactly how she's doing."

“Have you contacted Starfleet Medical and asked them if the Keldryians have any information on them?" Okan asked.

“I have, but got nothing back from them yet," M'benga shrugged. “These things sometimes take time, especially when dealing with the Keldryians."

“Well, I'm going to check on her and at least make sure she's comfortable."

M'benga nodded. “I'll let you know the instant I do hear anything."

Okan grabbed a medical tricorder out of a locker and headed into the ward.

The feline was still in the biobed, unconscious. Okan did a quick scan of her vitals, which seemed no different than the day prior. Sighing, Okan closed the tricorder and clipped it to his belt. He was a bit annoyed. Something was keeping this Aldari in a quasi-coma state. Knackt had done some damage to her, causing a minor concussion, but her helmet had cushioned the majority of the blunt force that would have killed her.

So far they had repaired the damage to her head. That had been a simple matter, but the neurotransmitter levels and activity in her brain mirrored those of someone who was recovering from a traumatic shock. It was almost like the Alderi was keeping herself in something close to a coma.

Harry's report had indicated that she had initiated some sort of telepathic link with him in order to incapacitate him, but then suddenly broke it before Knackt had struck her. Okan tried to press for more details, but Harry claimed he couldn't provide anything further.

Okan sighed as he drummed his fingers on the edge of the biobed. He wanted to help her. He had worked on a lot of people, many of them had been enemies, but this one felt different. This strange person was his patient now, but the lack of knowledge was frustrating. Because he didn't know anything about her he couldn't do anything to try and pull her out of her current state.

“I hope whatever you're doing is helping you," Okan sighed, “because I'm doing all I can and I don't even know if it's the right thing."

* * *

Harry left the airlock leading to the Falcon and stopped for a moment to catch his breath. The fatigue from his wounds had been slowing him down, but it was getting better. He quickly made his way over to one of the couches in the atrium overlooking the docked ship.

With a grunt, he sat, weary from the extra actions of the day. Perhaps after a few minutes of rest, he could get a bit more done before he returned to his quarters. He wanted to call home and tell his aunt and brother the good news. He yawned suddenly as his fatigue turned into weariness. Before he knew it, the exertion he put on himself had caused him to fall asleep.

“Captain Martinez? Wake up sir!"

Harry blinked heavily as everything came back into focus. A Catarian station security officer was standing over him. Harry sat up. In his sudden bout of sleep, he'd laid down on the couch to be more comfortable.

“Yes, what is it?" He said, trying to spot the officer's pips. “Lieutenant," he added, after yawning.

“You have a message from Captain De'Sol," the security officer replied. “When you didn't respond to the multiple pages, I was sent to find you. Are you ok, sir?"

“I'm fine." Harry waved impatiently. “I must have just dozed off. What time is it?"

“Fifteen hundred, sir."

“Damnit," Harry muttered. “I must have been more tired than I thought. Have the message patched to my quarters. I'll head there right now. Thank you, Lieutenant," he grunted as he tried to get moving again.

* * *

"Harry," Jayna smiled broadly via the slightly deteriorating signal. "It's good to see you again."

Harry noticed she looked different. Her hair was cropped shorter and she seemed like she'd put on a little bit of weight, but not an unhealthy amount. It was obvious she was in her quarters and she was in her nightwear, looking as if she'd just woken up. He was a bit intrigued as to what she had been up to in the months since they'd last spoken.

"Good to see you too, Jayna," he said, returning her smile. “How can I help you?"

“The Aether is heading in your direction," Jayna said. “We'll be arriving in a few days."

“What's the occasion?"

Jayna smiled. “Well, we have some new orders. I'm sure you will know soon enough. It's not anything we should discuss over an open channel though. However, that's not why I called you."

“I see," Harry said

"This is a personal call. I just have some things I want to get out in the open," she said.

"Ok," Harry said, leaning back in his chair and bracing for the worst.

Jayna's smile remained as she paused for a few moments to gather her thoughts.

"Bear with me, this is a little difficult," she said as static washed over the screen briefly before the image returned. "A lot has happened since we last spoke. I have some things I want to discuss with you when we can meet in person."

“Sure, this is a secure channel." Harry started.

“It's personal, Harry. I don't like discussing personal things over subspace…period," she said flatly.

“Then I'll just have to wait." Harry shrugged.

“Yeah you will!" Jayna chuckled. “Thank you, by the way. I've heard you had a few incidents as of late. How are you doing?"

“I'm alive and my limbs are still attached. It could be a lot worse." Harry smirked.

“Yeah, it could be," Jayna said in a way that sent a chill down his spine.

The image flickered again and he heard Jayna curse as they waited for the screen to clear up again.

“We'll be there in a few days, Harry. I want to see you when I arrive. We have a lot to catch up on and I would like to do that before we have to get to work."

“I would love to," Harry said. “I'll be looking forward to it."

Jayna smiled. “I'm looking forward to this too. See you soon."

The channel closed. That had been a pleasant surprise. Harry wondered what she might want to talk to him about, but it would have to wait until the Aether pulled into the space dock.

* * *

"Good morning, Commander," Braddock said flatly as Jakar checked in for his morning duties. "Congratulations on your promotion."

"Word gets around quickly," Jakar smirked. He knew it galled Braddock that they were now on the same level. If anything, seeing how he was going to handle it was going to bring him some amusement.

"That it does." Braddock grunted, getting up from his desk. "I guess we will have to figure out how we're going to handle this. You're still attached to station security when you are here."

"Well, that's simple enough," Jakar said, checking a terminal and looking over the night reports.

"Is it?"

"Of course," Jakar grunted. “I can take over the night shift again."

Braddock gave a little snort. Originally, Jakar had that position until he switched to take over as the daytime security Commander. Sonya Jax had jumped at the opportunity to take his position, however; she didn't have it for more than a few weeks before Braddock replaced her with someone he wanted. Sonya took the situation in stride even though her replacement, Lt. Parno, was terrible at his job. If it wasn't for Sonya rallying the troops, the Promenade wouldn't even be safe late at night

"Oh come now! Whoever you got there is doing a shit job! Parno doesn't want the job and incidents of criminal activity have gone up during the night shift. Hell, half the time he is asleep when I check in. If it wasn't for Jax supervising the crewmen nothing would get done." Jakar smirked. "Besides, the day shift Commander catches all the hell for night's shortcomings."

Braddock grunted and ran a hand through his headfur. “Piss of it is I can't think of anyone more qualified!"

"Jax."

Braddock groaned. "She could...I guess...but she doesn't have your intimate knowledge of the station's various nooks and crannies. I need someone with that kind of knowledge. There's a big project coming down the pipe and I need someone that can handle both shifts."

“So I do the grunt work?" Jakar grinned, “and you take all the credit?"

“You can look at it that way, I guess," Braddock said flatly.

“I do the job because I like it," Jakar said with a small smirk. “I don't give a damn about recognition."

“Good," Braddock said, retrieving a datapad from his desk. “Admiral Leyton will be bringing a special project to the station next month. I need all of docking section 4 fully swept and secured before then. I presume you had to do the same for the Raptor, correct?"

Jakar nodded and looked over the requirements.

“I figure with some people on days and you running nights, we could probably get it done in half the time?"

“Maybe," Jakar grunted.

“Excellent. You may pull whomever you need from other shifts to get this done," Braddock said, walking back to his desk and sitting down. “I won't cause any problems on my end." When Jakar didn't immediately leave, Braddock glanced up at him. “Questions, Commander?"

“ No." Jakar said, shaking himself a little. He hadn't realized that, in his excitement at getting at least part of his old position back, he'd sunk into his own personal world of quiet celebration. “If I have any questions, I will contact you."

As Jakar stepped out onto the busy Promenade, he smiled--something he didn't do very often. It was brief, and he quickly buried it under his usual scowl to not arouse too much suspicion.

Maybe Harry had been right to promote him. He'd been happy being a Lieutenant for a long time. Part of him wanted to box the younger echidna upside the head for promoting him, but upon reflection, he couldn't take it for granted.

Suddenly he grinned, realizing he didn't have to call Braddock “Sir" anymore.

“This might not be so bad," he chuckled to himself before putting his scowl back on.

* * *

Fara's Quarters

Meanwhile, another conversation had gone slightly different. Nikolai had anticipated there to be a little friction, but he hadn't expected Fara to unleash a verbal barrage on him nearly equal in ferocity to what he'd survived from her ship.

What happened to you? Where have you been? Why didn't you answer my messages? You were supposed to be back ages ago!

Months of pent-up worry, anger, fear, and sadness all came pouring out of her in a stream of consciousness that changed subjects so rapidly between curses that it was hard to keep up with it. Nikolai opted to turn directly into the maelstrom and keep his responses to a minimum, listening to her grievances and hoping she would tire out or pause to breathe.

“So, what do you have to say for yourself?!" Fara finally finished, wincing as her thigh spasmed.

“I'm truly sorry. May I speak now?" Nikolai said levelly.

Fara wanted to fly into another rage. His stoic demeanor through her verbal assault was frustrating and, at this point, she couldn't think of anything else to throw at him.

“Fine," Fara growled. “Talk!"

“As I said, I wasn't expecting to be sent out to the farthest reaches of the galaxy." Nikolai said defensively. “It's hard to communicate when you are nowhere near a subspace relay!"

“A likely story!" Fara snapped, looking away from the monitor and winching as she rubbed her leg.

Nikolai flushed dark green as the screen flickered.

“I did read your letters and I listened to all your messages. I'm sorry you lost your friend. I wish I could have been there on Corneria with you to figure out what happened. I'd be glad to help you look over those parts if you'd like. I may have some ideas on how to trace them. I don't have a problem with you seeing other people, as long as you don't keep us a secret. It's not like we have the means to be together permanently and I understand that. What more do you want from me, huh?" He sighed, slumping back in his seat exhaustedly. “I'm pretty sure that covers the important stuff. I wish it hadn't taken so long to get that back to you."

Fara sniffed and wiped a tear from her eye. “So you do care?"

“Of course I do," Nikolai said as the screen flickered again. “We've just been out in the deeper darkness for months. All I have thought about this whole time is being in your arms again, just to hear you laugh, talk to you about anything, even if we do nothing but sleep for two days in the same bed, I don't care. I miss you and I want you."

“I miss you too," Fara smiled, still chasing tears out of her fur. “Ok...you big dummy! You're forgiven. If you want brownie points, tell me you know some deep tissue massage techniques. My doctor is a sadist and won't give me anything good to dull the pain."

“I have some ideas to help you with your leg that will make you forget all about it." Nikolai grinned.

“Hey...I'm sorry about letting you have it," Fara finally said after a beat.

“I expected you would be slightly upset." Nikolai admitted, holding up two fingers barely a millimeter apart as the transmission flickered in and out again.

“Smartass!" Fara laughed. “Knock it off and get here! Get here soon before I decide to start getting mad again."

“A few days more and I'm all yours," Nikolai said happily. “I will count the moments."

“You'd better." Fara cooed. “See you soon. I will be expecting you, so don't make me wait again."

“I wouldn't dream of it," Nikolai smiled.

* * *

“Harry?" James asked as his face appeared on the screen. “Well this is a surprise. What brings you a calling?"

“I was trying to reach Krysta and she didn't answer," Harry explained. “Is everything ok?"

“Far as I know," James said, taking a cloth and wiping some grime off his face. “Krysta's out gathering herbs, god only knows where. You know she does that sometimes."

“Of course," Harry said, somewhat relieved. “How're things going with the new house?"

James stepped aside, revealing a rather incomplete-looking living room filled with tools, ladders, and sawhorses holding pieces of uncut lumber.

“It's going," James said with a little shrug. “A lot of work, but we're getting there a little bit every day."

“How's Diane?"

“She's fine, tries to help a lot and that drains her, despite me telling her otherwise. She's already starting to show now, by the way," he added with a silly smile.

“I'm glad you two are doing well. I may as well just get to the point," Harry said. “I'll leave it to you to pass it on to Krysta, but I have finally made captain."

“Really? Well, congrats! I didn't think that would be possible with everything that happened."

“Me neither, but it did happen regardless, though it seems to have been out of necessity." Harry replied.

“How have you been?" James asked. “You're looking a little rough around the edges."

“Just some excitement is all. It's been interesting out here the last few months." Harry chose his words carefully so as not to give away too many details. He wasn't sure how much of the recent goings-on were public knowledge. He was pretty sure that one of the Confederation's most dangerous weapons being stolen by insurgents was probably not being broadcast.

“I heard you got in a tussle with a giant space creature that tried to eat Altairia." James noted. “Glad you got through that. Once again, you're a big hero."

“Stop it. Doing the impossible comes with the job," Harry said flatly.

James grinned mirthfully, but he wasn't going to give Harry a ribbing for his humility. “Alright alright! You don't have to get salty about it."

“I'm not being salty," Harry growled.

James shook his head, sometimes Harry's humility mirrored his stubbornness. “Look, I'm not good at these things. I'm sorry about Nora, I really am. When we heard...it...hit pretty hard. She was really special...one of the best."

“I know," Harry said sullenly. “Thank you."

James nodded. “Anyways, I have a showing on Altairia. Some of my customers got wise to me being your brother and they want me to come out that way."

Harry rolled his eyes. Sometimes Altairian gratitude reached obscene levels.

Harry laughed. “Good for you. I'm almost sick of hearing about how grateful they are. Are you going to go?"

“Yeah, probably. The house needs some serious work that I'm not going to have to do by myself. I'm not even sure I'll have it done by the time the kid graduates. I sort of need the house ready before then. May as well."

“What about Diane?"

“Are you kidding? She's excited to go."

“Oh? I didn't think she'd want to do such a thing with the pregnancy," Harry said.

“I warned her that she might not handle the trip, but she told me she was going or I wasn't." James sighed. “I could really use the exposure, so it's not like I have a choice."

“Well, it's one thing when you are a spacer, another when you aren't." Harry chuckled. “I've seen many pregnant civilians lose their lunch during a jump, especially on their first time. Tell her to eat light."

James looked a bit repulsed, but reluctantly nodded. “Well, I appreciate the tip. It sounds like it's going to be all kinds of fun getting there."

"It only lasts a few hours." Harry shrugged. “After that Diane should be fine. Usually after they acclimate they won't be so bad on the return trip."

James seemed relieved. "Good to know. Thanks for the info. It won't hurt the baby, will it?"

"No. However, you should probably have her get a check-up before you go, possibly after you get back too, just to be safe," said Harry.

"Of course," James said, jotting something down. "Any other tips my brother, the ship captain, can tell me?"

"Just don't come my way," Harry chuckled. “I'm planning on a visit soon. I don't really operate in the safest sectors."

"Believe me, I have no inclination to get anywhere near border space." James laughed. "I don't have a death wish, like you do."

"I don't have a death wish," Harry said through gritted teeth. "I was assigned here. You go where they send you."

James chuckled. “Be careful out there, alright?"

Harry nodded. “You have a safe trip. I want to hear all about it when you get back."

“Will do. I need to get back to trying to put this house together. Take it easy Harry."

“You too."

James nodded and the channel closed.

* * *

A Few Days Later

Captain's Personal Log: Stardate 348104.28

The Aether has finally arrived at Starbase 186. I still have no idea what this assignment is that Captain De'sol wanted to discuss with me. To be honest, I am more interested in reconnecting with her. Things haven't been the best between us, in light of what happened in the past.

Harry and Fara stood at the airlock, waiting patiently. Fara was shifting her weight on her cane.

“Nervous?" Harry asked.

“Maybe a little," Fara admitted. “I'm not quite sure what I'll feel when I see him. It's been a while. You?"

Harry shifted his weight. “I'll say I'm a little anxious. It's...been a while."

“Did you two ever patch things up?" Fara asked.

“As best I could. I thought we were on good terms when the Aether left Starbase last time." Harry shrugged.

“Best of luck to you," Fara said, giving him a playful slug on the shoulder.

“Did you have to do that?" Harry clenched his jaw as his shoulder throbbed.

“Obviously," Fara smirked as the bulkheads shuddered. The Aether made its hard connections and the airlock signaled that the seal was secure.

After a few moments, the crew of the Aether started to disembark, chatting amongst themselves and dispersing to other points in the station. Harry guessed that they must have been granted shore leave, since many of them were already in civilian garb. There were a few that recognized him from his time on the ship before the Epsilon Three mess. They shot him dirty looks before carrying on with their business. Eventually, Nikolai appeared in the airlock.

“Ah! There's my beautiful vixen! I've missed you!" He said as he came rushing down the corridor towards them.

“Knock off the sweet talk and get over here," Fara grinned happily, hobbling over to him and pulling him close.

Harry smiled in spite of himself. Seeing Fara excited made him surprisingly happy.

Fara squealed as Nikolai picked her up and she laughed. “Knock it off you big goon!"

“I will not have you walking with that cane while I'm here," NIkolai declared, easily hoisting Fara into a more secure grip before turning his attention to Harry. “Captain Martinez, my captain is still on board. She asked that you proceed to her quarters. They are on Deck 2, section 5. Now, if you'll excuse me, I am stealing your Chief Engineer."

“You heard the man! We have places to be!" Fara crowed as Nikolai draped her over his shoulder. “Good luck with Jayna! I hope you still know the way to my place, big guy."

“I haven't forgotten," Nikolai said as he strode away with Fara bobbing on his shoulder, giggling madly as he tail wagged.

“Don't have too much fun," Harry called over his shoulder as he entered the Aether.

Aboard the Aether the lights were dimmed, only providing the basest of illumination. The older design of the hull left lingering shadows in the low light, giving everything a slightly ominous feel. Harry's footsteps echoed down the empty corridors as he approached a turbolift and took it up to Deck 2. Once there, he looked over the names on the doors and the section numbers. The ship's layout had changed since his last visit. He hadn't had the time to re-learn it since the old Aether's saucer had been installed. The time he did spend on the vessel had been mostly in the engineering section. After a brief walk around the deck, he found Jayna's quarters and tapped the page button by the door.

“Come in Harry." He heard Jayna say over the com speaker.

The door hissed open and he stepped inside. He noticed that the quarters were shrouded in darkness. The portal shutters allowed the dim light from the interior of the station to come in, although Jayna had the auto tint turned to a very dark tone.

“Take a moment and let your eyes adjust," Jayna advised from the shadows. “I'm not particularly fond of the light as of late."

“Alright then," Harry said as he waited for his vision to clear. “Are you ok? I don't understand why you suddenly need the cover of darkness."

“When you have new eyes, it takes a bit for you to get used to normal light," Jayna explained as she switched on a dim lamp at her desk.

“New eyes?" Harry raised an eyebrow. “What happened? You didn't look like you were hurt when we spoke a few days ago."

“My new chief medical officer is a miracle worker," Jayna said quietly. “Sit. We have a lot to discuss. “

Harry sat across from her, trying to read her heavily shadowed face. Jayna pulled a bottle of wine from an ice bucket that was barely visible on the desk, opened it, and poured a glass for each of them.

“Here, you may as well get comfortable."

“Thank you." Harry said as he took the glass she was holding out to him.

Jayna took a swig and sighed, leaning back in her chair and staring up at the ceiling.

“I like the new look." Harry said quietly, peering at her over the rim of his glass.

“It's very kind of you to say that, however; it's more out of necessity than by choice."

There was a pause and then Harry asked. “Jayna, what happened?"

“I got hurt...bad," Jayna said blankly. “I was standing in the wrong place at the wrong time when we came under attack by a hostile civilization on the far frontier. Most of my face got blown off...lost both eyes, still can't hear too good from my right ear. I got lucky actually. One of my crewmen who was killed in the same attack was an organ donor." She leaned forward and quickly took out the contact lenses she had been wearing. Her eyes were no longer grey. They were now a rusty emerald color.

Harry tried to put on his best poker face as she held his gaze. He didn't want to seem shocked for fear that she would get upset.

Jayna smirked as he struggled. “I know," she chuckled bitterly, “it's a change...and it's a bit morbid, seeing through a dead man's eyes?"

“I...can't possibly imagine what it's like," Harry said with forced calm.

“It's certainly different," she admitted. “You look different...everything does actually." She grabbed a case from a drawer and stowed the lenses. “I know the doctor tells me it's all in my mind, but they still have their old eyes. I wear the lenses to keep from unsettling the crew." She hesitated, unable to meet his gaze for a moment. “I hope I don't have to do that with you."

“Of course not," Harry said quickly. “Jayna...I'm so sorry you had to go through this. It can't be easy."

Jayna nodded and took a deep breath. “It isn't. But, you're probably wondering why we're here, right?"

“The question has crossed my mind," Harry admitted. "You mentioned we had some orders we needed to discuss."

"In due time," Jayna said. “There's no rush. Besides, there's something else we need to talk about first. While I was recovering from this," she gestured to her eyes. “I had a lot of time to think about a lot of things. When you're lying on a biobed for weeks, there's not a lot you can do. I realized I was wrong in how I treated you. I regret it, but I can't take it back. I was just caught up in my own anger at the situation...and I know, deep down, that you did everything you could have. I don't even know if I could have stopped that thing in your situation." She got up and walked slowly over to the window, staring out into the spacedock. “I don't know if anyone could have done it...but somehow, you did."

Harry gingerly set his glass down. “Jayna...I told you you didn't have to apologize."

“I need to, Harry, so shut up!" She snapped.

Harry held up his hands defensively. “Sorry. Go on."

Jayna smiled over her shoulder at him, then looked down at the glass in her hands.

“Anyways, I had time to think about my future. Starfleet Command seems to think that just because I passed the psychological evaluations I'm still able to hold command, but something is broken inside me, Harry. I'm not the same. I don't feel as confident...as even-minded as I used to be."

Harry stood and walked over to her side. “So, what are you saying?"

“I'm saying that, after nearly two decades, I think I've had enough," she said quietly while taking a drink.

Harry managed to hold his poker face this time.

“You get to a point where you start to wonder when you're gonna cut your losses and walk," Jayna said sadly, looking over to him. “I have zero regrets about my career, but there are other things I want to do with my life." She gestured at her eyes. “Maybe coming back from this is a sign that I need to stop."

Harry took a deep breath and a long drink from his glass. As he set the glass back on the desk, he met Jayna's new eyes.

“What will you do next?"

Jayna let out a pensive 'hmmm' as she traced the rim of her glass with a finger. “Well...I'm not getting any younger and I thought that, perhaps, I'd try my hand at being a mother."

Harry raised an eyebrow. “You? Rasing kids? I didn't think that'd be something you'd consider."

“Just because I never brought it up before doesn't mean it wasn't on my mind." Jayna said, shaking her head.

“It's just...well...you never seemed the type."

Jayna laughed. “I never would have taken you for a monocycle thug either, yet you were once."

“That was a long time ago," Harry said, shaking his head. “Well, good luck on your next adventure."

Jayna stared at him with the slightest frown on her face. “Wow. That went right over your head, didn't it?"

“What?"

She sighed, rolling her eyes. “Harry, I need to tell you something that should clear some things up."

“Ok," Harry said.

Jayna leaned forward. “When was the first time we met Harry?"

“Here on the Starbase," Harry replied, “in Captain Stiles' office."

“Are you absolutely sure about that?" Jayna asked pointedly.

Harry laughed nervously. “Yes?"

Jayna tapped in a few commands on her terminal as she set her glass on the table.

“Take a walk with me," she said as she stood.

Harry got up, downing the last of the wine and moving to follow her. She slowly headed for the door with Harry by her side.

“Where are we going?" He asked.

“The holodeck. I want to show you something." She said as the door opened. “I would appreciate a little bit of help along the way, it's not that far. My usual helper is off with your engineer."

“Of course," Harry said, offering his arm.

“Thanks Harry. Walking still hurts, something to do with depth perception and my inner ear, causes massive headaches. The doctor says it should clear up once everything gets used to the donor eyes." Jayna explained. “Honestly, it's embarrassing having to live in the dark and need a damn chaufer to get around my own ship."

“So, where are we going? I don't know the way anymore," Harry asked.

“Down the hall, left, then second door on the right," she said as she nudged him in the right direction. “It was the old sickbay before the rebuild."

“I still don't know what this is all about," Harry said, shaking his head.

“In due time, Harry," Jayna said, patting his arm.

They soon arrived at the holodeck doors.

“PROGRAM DE'SOL 12 ALPHA LOADED." Droned the Aether's male voiced computer. “ENTER WHEN READY."

The large double doors of the holodeck whooshed as they opened. Harry and Jayna stepped through the archway onto what appeared to be a moonlit beach. As they stepped onto the sand, the door disappeared behind them.

“Ring any bells?" Jayna asked.

Harry looked up and down the beach. Nothing sparked a memory, so he looked up at the moon. He frowned. It was the moon that orbited his homeworld. Looking around again, Harry realized where they were.

“Yeah, I do. This is a place not too far from my home." He turned to her, confused. “How do you know about it?"

“Let me lead the way," she said, walking farther down the beach. After a bit, she sat down. “Sit."

Harry sat beside her, still looking around. He knew this place well and the holodeck had done an admirable job recreating it.

“Years ago I came to this beach on a night like this. My parents had recently passed and I was on my own. I couldn't stand being in the beachside house, even though I wanted for nothing...except my family." Jayna leaned back and looked up at the stars. “I took off walking for miles, I don't know how far. Then I heard something."

“What did you hear?" Harry asked.

“Crying. The crying of a young boy...much younger than me."

Harry stiffened.

“Eventually I found him. I asked him what was wrong and he said his mother had just passed. He wanted to run away. He couldn't bear staying there without his mother."

Harry scooted away from her, turning a little so he could look her in the eye. “That…that was you?!"

Jayna nodded with a faint smile. “There are other times our paths have crossed. Haven't you ever wondered who got you to the hospital when you were bleeding out in Calista City?"

Harry was struggling for words. “You...seriously?"

“I was there between semesters at the Academy. I sort of recognized you, even though you weren't in very good shape. You looked like you'd been in one hell of a fight."

“I was," Harry said, still trying to grasp everything.

“I tried to visit you in the hospital, but you were still in intensive care. I had to leave before they released you." Jayna explained. “When I got a moment to contact them to check on you, they said you'd already been released." She sat quietly for a while, watching the waves. “I didn't see you again until a year or so later."

“Wait, so…you were at the bar too?" Harry's eyes went wide. He could feel the heat rising in his cheeks. “Oh god…."

“Yes," Jayna giggled. “I was the young woman you were drunkenly trying to hit on before Mandy knocked you through a table. And, yet again, you didn't recognize me. I swear, at that point, I felt like you deserved it. I was already working as an aide to Admiral Kramer at the time. I knew he was looking to sponsor you for entrance into the Academy and get you straightened out. To be honest, I was quite upset at you continually forgetting me, so I just carried on with my life." Jayna sighed, rolling her shoulders and neck. “Part of me thought maybe there was something about you, some sort of destiny I was missing out on since we kept bumping into each other even though I joined Starfleet and you were apparently working on getting a high score for misdemeanors."

“I...Jayna...wow." Harry hung his head. “I'm sorry I just never put it together that you were that same person all this time."

Jayna chuckled. “Well, I was. I wish it didn't take you this long to realize it. I got tired of waiting for you to figure it out and figured I'd tell you."

“If it makes you feel any better," Harry said awkwardly, “I always wondered what happened to that girl on the beach. I thought about her...a lot."

“She filled out a little, put on weight, got taller, and grew her hair out," Jayna said, counting on her fingers as she spoke. “I think you were so fixated on what you could remember you couldn't see the damn forest, just a few trees."

Harry sighed and rubbed his face. He could honestly say that he had never felt more stupid than he did now.

“Sorry it took me so long," Harry said.

“I know you are, so don't worry about it." She reached out and took his hand and smiled. “I can't stay mad at you...no matter how much I want to be."

They sat on the simulated beach for a moment, listening to the breeze blow through the reeds amidst the crash of the waves.

“Call it fate, call it luck, call it Karma, but something seems to keep making our paths cross." Jayna said, looking up at the stars.

“It seems that way." Harry said shifting around to get comfortable, but not taking his hand out of her's. “So, these thoughts you've been having…?"

It was Jayna's turn to glance away. “Well, if I were to pursue that path...I would like for you to join me."

“Oh?" Harry smiled. “Really?"

She nodded. “Well...can you think of anyone better?"

“I...wow." Harry sat back, unsure of what to say next. “This isn't what I expected."

“I've never been anything but direct and honest with you. Why would that change now?" She caught his gaze with a sidelong glance. “Despite everything that has happened, I still love you."

“I love you too. I'm overwhelmed and elated and....and...just...give me a minute."

Harry got to his feet and started pacing. He couldn't help but notice his hand felt lonely now. Jayna watched him pace and stretch his arms as he tried to gather his thoughts.

“I know it's a lot all at once," Jayna admitted. “I want to clear the air between us, either way."

Harry nodded and ran his hands through his head fur. “And you are just...ok with this?"

“Of course I am. Maybe, after a while, I'll go teach at the Academy."

“Are you...you aren't suggesting we get married...are you?" Harry asked, coming to a stop in front of Jayna.

Jayna rolled her eyes. “No, you goose!" She held up a hand as he opened his mouth. “Now to be fair, if you want to get married I wouldn't be opposed to it." She grinned. “Considering what we've been through, marriage would hardly be a challenge. Look, I get it, you aren't ready to settle down and that's fine."

“I feel like my head is spinning," Harry said. “Do you think you'd really be happy if you went through with this?"

“I do," she said without hesitation. “Harry, if I'm going to do this, I want a partner, someone who understands what I've been through, who understands me...someone I can actually trust."

Harry sat down in front of her, his mind turning over what she was saying. “It's just...a child is a lot. I wouldn't want to..."

She pressed a finger to his lips. “I know it's a lot, but I want this. You can be involved as much as you want. I just expect you to try. Besides, how much harder can raising a kid be compared to running a starship?"

Harry was quiet for a moment, then nodded. “Fair enough. I guess we could figure it out as we go. Like you said, it can't be any worse than what we've already been through."

“Thank you," she smiled at him, “that means a lot to me."

Harry laughed and flopped onto his back. “To be honest, this whole evening had been nothing like what I expected!"

Jayna stretched out next to him and laid her head on his chest. “I hope that is a good thing."

“It is," Harry smiled as he wrapped an arm around her. “Say? Do you remember what else happened that night?"

“After the explosion?" Jayna asked.

“Yeah…did you ever hear what caused that? That debris nearly took both of us out."

Jayna frowned, glad Harry couldn't see her face for a moment as she swallowed the truth. “Nope...I never did."

“Really? You never bothered to ask?"

“It was so long ago. What's the point? It could have been a Prell warbird or some Urthean who felt he could just make a bee-line for Termia and conquer it. Does it really matter?"

“No, I suppose not," Harry sighed. “I just don't like little mysteries in my life, they irritate me."

“Maybe some things are best not knowing." Jayna smiled up at him and touched the side of his face. “Most people have enough to deal with on a day-to-day basis rather than dwelling on every little oddity that occurs in their life."

“I suppose so," Harry relented, relaxing under her touch. “So, we were going to do dinner?"

“True," Jayna smirked as she traced his jawline with her finger. “But I figured we could work up an appetite first."

She slid up him until her lips touched his and pulled him in tightly.

As she broke away, Harry took a deep breath. “This is definitely not what I expected!"

* * *

Somewhere on an abandoned section of Starbase 186

Jakar pulled the emergency release on a door and pulled it open. He held up his light and swept the room. There wasn't supposed to be anything in there, but he kept his phaser at the ready.

“Anything?" He grunted to Sonya Jax as she started a tricorder scan.

“Nothin' yet luv. It appears tah be clear," she replied, eyes flicking from the tricorder to the room. “Decor looks a wee bit dated...damn tacky schite."

Jakar nodded. It looked like a Keldryian officer's quarters. The furnishings had layers of dust on them, however, the room looked untouched.

“If we're lucky this is all we're going to find. The Keldryians had largely abandoned this place years prior to the Confederation moving in. Save for maybe a small garrison and someone to mind whoever was left, there wouldn't have been anyone here. Since they left, a lot of it has yet to be brought into use."

“Ya think they could've keep th' heat going," Sonya grumbled as she shivered.

“That wouldn't be a good use of resources," Jakar grunted. “Plus, it sets up safe havens for various space faring vermin if the heat is on."

“Two legged or other?" Sonya chuckled.

“Take your pick," Jakar smirked. “I'm sure those hijackers last month probably had a hell of a time trying to find the rathole they held up in."

“Well, if there's a will," Sonya chuckled.

“I know," Jakar said. “Any security can be avoided if you watch it long enough. People get set in their ways, get lazy, become more concerned with the more common occurrences than the least likely. Let's get this room sealed up."

He stepped out and they used the maglock to close the door and seal it. Sonya grabbed the tape roll attached to her equipment belt and put it over the seam of the door.

She smirked at Jakar as she finished. “Yer feelin' a wee bit guilty ya didn't catch 'em?"

Jakar scowled and headed to the next room taking the mag lock release and forcing the next door open.

“Don't be playin' th' silent game ya brute!" Sonya scolded him. “It doesn't work on me!"

Jakar sighed. “Yes...I should have taken Fara's reports of tampering more seriously." He growled as he stepped into the next room of gloomy, cold, dust covered quarters. “However, that woman has a conniption fit when a new crew member looks at a console the wrong way. It can be hard to take her seriously sometimes."

“No one's perfect, not even you," Sonya said. “Ya got complacent. Get over it!"

Jakar glared at her. She put her hands on her hips and glared right back at him.

“Yer tricks don't work on me. Now, get over yerself!" She tapped him on the snout. “We only got somethin' like 30 more decks tah clear."

Jakar sighed, shaking his head as Sonya walked away. Sonya may have been decades younger than him, but sometimes he could hardly tell she was.

“You are right," he muttered before following her. “Let's keep going."

* * *

Sickbay, Starbase 186

Doctor Okan came in to check on the Alderi before he turned in for the night. He stopped in his tracks when he came through the door. She was sitting up and conscious, speaking to a male Avian. Okan frowned. The Avian was orange and wore an all black fleet uniform with a black combadge.

“Excuse me." Okan demanded, irritated at not being informed of this interference with his patient. “Who are you? What are you doing with my patient?"

The Avian turned sharply to face Okan.

“Doctor Okan. I am Agent Besker of Starfleet Intelligence. I was sent here to interview the Alderi, given how little we know about them."

“Charming," Okan said flatly. He knew these types. They had been all over the station during the inquiry after the Epsilon Three disaster. “How did you manage to bring my patient around?"

“It was simply a matter of getting her alpha patterns back in sync. She would have come out of her coma eventually, but since we have such limited knowledge of her species the powers that be decided we would expedite her recovery. You don't mind, do you doctor?" Besker smiled at the feline and pointed to the neural stimulators still attached to her forehead.

“No," she said quietly. “You can have your things back."

Besker removed the devices attached to her temple and shoved them in his pocket.

“Wonderful little things," he noted as he worked. “A bit of Keldryian technology that hasn't been fully tested for mass release, but they work well enough."

“So…" Okan prompted, trying to tread lightly. He trusted these Starfleet Intelligence officers about as much as he trusted a sample of polyvirus. “What did you learn?"

“Nothing, actually. She doesn't recall anything." Besker shrugged. “It is unfortunate."

“I am sorry for the inconvenience," the feline said earnestly.

“It's alright dear," Besker said, smile still plastered on his face. “Perhaps, in time, we will talk again."

Okan grabbed a tricorder and scanned her, just to get some readings. “So, what is to be done with her?"

“Since she has no further information for us, she is still under the custody of your Captain, to do with her as he sees fit." Besker shrugged. “In my opinion, she's harmless, but we'll be keeping an eye on her."

“It would be in her best interest if I had some of that knowledge that you apparently do if I am to continue caring for her." Okan noted.

“It will be provided. In fact, I have already seen to it." Besker replied evenly. “Now, if there is nothing else, I have other matters to attend to. Good evening, doctor."

With a polite nod to Okan, Besker left the sickbay.

“He seems nice." The Alderi said. “He has a very dark side though, something he likes to hide from people."

Okan scoffed as he scanned her. “People like that are anything but nice. Since you're up, would you care for some food?"

She nodded. “Yes please. I am thirsty too."

“We'll start with something light and some water. You've been out a while and your stomach might not be quite ready for a lot. Do you happen to recall your name at all?"

“Yes, it's Amelia." She replied. “That I do know."

“Well Ameila, let's get you up and about, you should be able to stand."

“You are very kind." The Alderi noted, cocking her head slightly. “I can see that in you. You really care about me, even though you don't know me."

“I'm a doctor, it's my job to care," Okan said, smiling. “Just sit tight, one meal coming right up."

* * *

Rivas' Quarters, Starbase 186

Rivas woke up and yawned, feeling the familiar feathered form of Michelle sleeping beside him. They had been working, late into the night, on her presentation for an upcoming symposium she had been invited to speak at. As soon as they got to his quarters and showered, she'd gone straight to bed.

He gently put his hand on her rump and gave her a little shake, but she made some hissing sound and rolled away from him. Rivas chuckled, sitting up as she wrapped all the covers around her with her beak sticking out through a small hole. He stretched and looked up at the wall chronometer. It was already late afternoon. Fortunately, they didn't have to be anywhere today. It was nice to have time off, but it got old after a while.

With a grunt, Rivas got up and dressed before making himself a snack and heading over to the main viewer in the living room. When he turned it on it was already tuned to the news. He was aware that they were awaiting new orders, but part of him wondered what the hold up was.

After he finished his snack, he looked at the time. He leaned over to glance into the bedroom. Michelle was still bundled up tightly, but her breathing gave her away. She wasn't sleeping. Now she was just milking it.

Rivas smirked as he sat back. “Computer. Increase the temperature by ten degrees."

“ACKNOWLEDGED."

He heard the air circulation kick on and felt it gradually get warmer. A groan followed by the shuffling of covers in the next room was all he needed to know that he was winning.

He got up and quickly made her a snack. Michelle was a bit too predictable for her own good sometimes. By the time he sat it on the table, she came stumbling out of the bedroom, half awake and still naked.

“Too hot," she muttered, staggering out of the bedroom.

“You always say that." Rivas said, reaching over to a small control on the couch and setting the temperature back to the preset. “I made something for you to eat."

“Let me wake up first," she yawned, walking over to the couch and falling onto it, her head coming to rest on his lap. “You seem chipper."

“Just well rested," he said, keeping an ear on the news report where an attractive vixen was going over the events across their neck of the galaxy. He affectionately stroked Michelle's side. “I got you a snack."

“I see that. I'll get to it if I don't fall asleep again," O'mara cooed. “Not used to pulling all nighters like that. At least, not since the Academy. How can that be more tiring than dealing with an Urthean raid in the middle of the night?"

“You wanted to push it till 0400," Rivas reminded her. “I tried to get you to go to bed."

“I have to speak in front of a thousand people about some new fungus with fascinating new properties I found and I have to make it all sound interesting! I don't really have a lot of room for error. It has to be perfect." She yawned massively and nestled closer to Rivas, eyes closing as she relaxed.

“Hey, come on! You can't sleep all day," Rivas chuckled gently, shaking her.

“Yes I can," she hissed, nipping his thigh playfully.

“I thought you wanted to go to the Arboretum today and the day is almost over," Rivas noted with another glance at the chronometer.

“The Orchid Exhibit!" Michelle chirped, sitting up. “That's right! If we don't go it won't be for another three years!" She sprang to her feet, grabbed her breakfast, devoured it, and disappeared into the bedroom, leaving a trail of feathers floating behind her.

Rivas chuckled and went back to watching the news, patiently waiting on her to get ready.

* * *

Captain De'Sol's Quarters

Harry had gotten up early, despite the late supper and the rather long night with Jayna. He felt energetic, lively. Even his burns seemed to hurt less. He was fixing breakfast for both of them when he realized he was feeling content for the first time in a while. A pair of hands slipped under his shoulders and Jayna pressed into him from behind, taking care to not put pressure on his patches.

"Morning," she said cheerily. "What smells good?"

"Breakfast," Harry replied. “It's a surprise "

“What's the occasion?"

“Maybe we could discuss those new orders?"

Jayna rolled her eyes, let him go, and sat at the table. “You know your dedication to duty is both your most endearing and annoying quality?"

Harry frowned in confusion. “Thank you?"

Jayna huffed, rolling her eyes again as she got up and walked over to her desk to retrieve the data pad. She tossed it on the table before retaking her seat.

“Ok," Harry said hesitantly. “I'll just read them then?"

“I'm hungry," Jayna said curtly. “Could you hurry up with that?" She motioned with her hand for him to resume what he was doing.

“Hey, we're the same rank. You just can't order me around." Harry chuckled, grabbing a plate, loading it with food, and taking it over to her.

“I think we both know how things work in this relationship, so don't sass me," she smirked while taking a bite. “This is really good! Lots of veggies and some meat? A scramble of some sort…where did you learn to make this?"

“It's something my aunt would make all the time," Harry said as he sat across from her and tucked into his own plate. “It's pretty easy to make."

As he started eating, he pulled the data pad closer and began to read it.

“It's good," Jayna said, waiting for him to look up at her before adding, “thank you."

“You're welcome," Harry said with a small nod before turning his attention back to the data pad. He hadn't been reading for long when a scowl crossed his features.

“Now you see why I wasn't in a rush to discuss it," Jayna sighed.

* * *

Promenade Level, Starbase 186

“A healthy breakfast will be a good start to your recovery." Okan said with a broad smile as he set a tray of food in front of Amelia. She was dressed in a rather drab grey unisex top and slacks, which was standard issue for any recently released patient.

"How do you know what I eat? I thought you said you'd never met one of my species before," Amelia said, sniffing the food plaintively.

"It's rather simple," Okan replied, watching her closely. “I learned what I could by running a thorough biological scan, followed by a thorough metabolic analysis. It's easy to find equivalents to what your normal diet may be."

"A…what?" Amelia said, staring at him confused.

"Most lifeforms like you and me require similar nutrients, with a few variations here and there." Doctor Okan replied. “Since the universe is mostly made up of the same elements, it's easy to find things to eat for anyone. Now, try some and take it slowly. I promise it won't bite you back."

Amelia grabbed a fork and cautiously started to eat. After the first bite she smiled and began to eat more.

"It's good," she noted.

"I told you it'd be fine." Okan smiled, taking out a tricorder, scanning her vitals to see how her body responded to food.

"Is something wrong?" Amelia asked.

"No, everything is fine." Okan replied, closing the tricorder and putting it back on his waist holster. "So, I know you already spoke to that man from fleet intelligence, but do you remember anything prior to being here?"

"No."

"Well, you were part of a pirate crew, the Black Stars to be precise." Okan explained as she continued to eat. "You were incapacitated while trying to do the same to our Captain. However, in his report he says that you suddenly screamed and stopped whatever it was you were doing. Do you remember that?"

She listened, but simply shrugged her shoulders.

"Ok, no more questions," said Okan. “I am just trying to learn more about you to help you."

"Why?"

"I am sure you would like to go home, wouldn't you?"

"Home," Amelia said, looking up at him quizzically. Suddenly, something deep and forgotten stirred in her. It was a powerful longing that lacked any context. Okan could see it explode to life in her eyes, making them shimmer as a tear rolled down her cheek.

"I didn't mean to upset you," Okan apologized quickly.

"You didn't…I feel…very alone." She sulked. Briefly, she tried to look into Okan's mind. There was something familiar on the forefront of his thoughts which she was able to verbalize. "I feel like you feel about Rachael…when you mentioned home."

Okan seemed taken aback, but regained his composure. "I think I understand. Bittersweet would be the word I'd pick for that."

Amelia nodded and looked back down at her meal. "Sorry, I just wanted you to understand."

"So, you can use your abilities," Okan said with a small nod. “I see."

Amelia nodded back and slumped down in her chair.

"I remember them as well as you recall how to walk when you wake up in the morning. "

"Fascinating!" Okan exclaimed. "Well, let's keep that little development between us for now. It might startle some people."

"I don't want to hurt anyone," said Amelia. “I am aware that some are very wary of me."

"I wouldn't worry," Okan admitted. “If that intelligence officer left you to your own devices, I don't think you have anything to worry about."

Amelia smiled wanly. “You don't really believe that yourself."

Okan opened his mouth to respond, but it dawned on him that arguing with her would be pointless. He sighed. “I'm a bit concerned about your welfare…that's all."

“I know," she said, “and I also know that no one wants to harm me."

Okan smiled. “Well, that's a small blessing at least."

* * *

The arboretum on Starbase 186 was quite extensive. It was almost the same size as Hanger 97 and housed a wide variety of plants and a few exotic, harmless, wildlife. The climate was computer controlled and always maintained a subtropical climate for the optimal growth of the plants. It even had a waterfall and a stream running throughout its multiple layers. It was maintained by both civilian and Starfleet personnel. The whole facility was lit with faux daylight that changed with the time to simulate a day/night cycle. It took a tremendous amount of resources to maintain, but it gave those who spent an inordinate amount of time in space a taste of something terrestrial, a place to feel grounded.

O'mara and Rivas walked, arm-in-arm, through the grotto where the orchid display had been set up. Rivas didn't know much about flowers, but apparently Michelle had rapidly absorbed everything she could on the subject. She was more than happy to answer his questions.

“I'm glad you are enjoying the exhibit. I didn't know you had such an interest," Don chuckled.

“It's a new development," O'mara said, gently turning a blossom between her talons. “During my research with Doctor Okan he spurred my curiosity and I dove into it because it was something new." O'mara said, smiling. “Never hurts to broaden your horizons, right?"

“I suppose not," Rivas said, admiring one blossom that had a similar hue to O'mara's feathers. “This one matches you," he noted, pointing at it.

Michelle turned and smiled at him. Her smile turned to horror as she spotted something orange just beyond where Rivas was pointing.

“What?" Don asked, confused as a few feathers molted off of O'mara. Turning, he spotted two figures coming up the path.

“Well, well, well!" Fara grinned mischievously as Nikolai helped her walk. “Now I know what you've been up to lately, chickadee!"

Don sighed and rubbed his head. It was inevitable that, sooner or later, their secret would be found out. Both of them had just been hoping for someone other than Fara to be the one that finally found out.

“F-F-F-Fara! It-it isn't-it's…."

“Oh stop! I'm happy for you!" Fara laughed, rolling her eyes. “You don't have to make up any stories."

O'mara stopped stammering and looked a little relieved.

“I wondered why you weren't such a sourpuss lately, Don." Fara smirked at him. “So, how long has this been a thing?"

“A few months," Don replied.

“You two are cute together," said Fara. “Don't worry, your secret's safe with us."

Nikolai looked amused, but he wasn't too concerned. He didn't really know the other two and just chose to remain quiet. “Why would they want their love to be a secret?" He finally whispered to Fara.

Don chuckled. “Because we don't want everyone in our business. Gossip gets around and we like how things are."

“You two are lucky Terri isn't around. She would have caught you by now." Fara said teasingly “You should probably keep your dates out of public spaces if you're trying to be all secret about it."

“This would be the last place I would expect to see you," O'mara muttered, her smile breaking the corners of her frown as she tried to be mad at Fara and failed.

“It wasn't my idea. It was his," Fara said, patting Nikolai's arm affectionately.

Nikolai shrugged. “I thought it would be nice for a change of pace, something new."

“I'll admit, it was a nice surprise." Fara smiled at him. “We don't get a lot of time to do much when we get together."

Nikolai nodded. “I thought it would be interesting too, however; I don't know much about flowers."

“Well, I have a blossoming botanist right here who'd love to fill you in." Rivas chuckled as he pulled O'mara close, causing her to blush. “In fact, before she spotted you, I think she was getting ready to tell me about one of these blooms." He pointed to the one he was admiring.

“Indeed? Please tell us about this one," Nikolai prompted.

“W-w-well…" O'mara took a deep breath and then plunged forward. “That one is the Blue Landros. It only blooms once a year, and only for a few days. It's a very rare specimen which comes from the heavy tropics in the southern hemisphere of Ladion 4." She was shocked at how quickly she had recalled that and how smoothly she had been able to present it.

Fara looked shocked. “Really? I'm impressed! Did all that come from memory?"

O'mara nodded excitedly. She'd noticed her retention of knowledge had significantly increased after her encounter with Coyote. Her mind had become an almost limitless archive of knowledge and facts for anything she encountered. She wondered if it was part of his parting gift to her or just something she'd always had that he'd simply unlocked within her.

“For instance, that one over there." O'mara pointed to a cluster of rather large blooms in varying degrees of red. “It's actually from Corneria. It only blooms once every 30 years and only grows naturally on a single uninhabited island in the east sea. Actually, I am surprised they even got a hold of a specimen."

Fara walked over to the plant with Nikolai's help. Her gait was awkward and she was favoring one leg so badly it caused her to nearly tip over.

“Hard to believe anything that beautiful can come from Corneria." Fara said evenly as she leaned in to examine it.

“You did," Nikolai said with a toothy grin.

Fara blushed under her fur, smiling in spite of herself. “Knock it off!"

“Fara, if I may? I would like to ask your friend more questions. She seems very knowledgeable and I would like to know more about a few of these specimens." Nikolai said.

“Only if you behave yourself," Fara said with mock venom in her tone. “I'm sort of slowing us down anyway."

“I will keep my distance," Nikolai said with a bow before turning to Rivas. “Would you mind helping Fara?"

“Not at all," said Rivas. “We'll just listen and follow."

Nikolai nodded. “Tell me, Miss O'mara, how many other rare species are here and what else do you know about them?"

“Oh, there are several especially unique plants here right now! For instance, that purple one actually uses its roots to crush small rocks for nutrients. It's one of the ones I found in the Rorishard system…."

O'mara continued to rattle off details as she scampered ahead, Nikolai following at a safe distance with Rivas and Fara lagging far behind.

Fara took Rivas' arm and he felt her claws sink into it.

“Hey, watch it!" He said with a grimace. Fara's claws were strangely sharp and well manicured for someone who worked with her paws as much as she did.

“You do her like you did Terri and I will rip your fucking balls off and stomp on them," Fara snarled out of the corner of her mouth. “She's a sweet woman and you better not break her heart!"

“I wouldn't!" Don said, wincing and trying to reclaim his arm. Fara's grip tightened.

“You wouldn't? Bullshit! When was the last time you had a drink?" Fara hissed.

“I don't even remember, honest! Damnit!" Don snapped back. He could feel blood starting to trickle down his arm from where her claws were sinking into his arm.

Fara glared, snout curling in a vicious snarl, and then softened. She retracted her claws, but the dangerous crease of her bow never lightented. “Then we won't have a problem, will we?"

“No!" Rivas gasped as the pinholes in his arm began to sting.

“Good," Fara smiled, though it came across as more of a feral warning than anything else.

“Is there a problem?" Nikolai called over his shoulder.

“No problem at all," Don replied as they moved to catch up. “I swear, I won't hurt her," he quickly added to Fara in a harsh whisper. “If I do, you won't have to worry. I'll punish myself more than you could imagine."

* * *

Captain De'Sol's Quarters, U.S.S Aether

Jayna emerged from her bedroom wearing a button down blouse, a scarf, and a set of sunglasses. She found Harry standing in front of the porthole, glaring out into the dockyard.

“So, are you going to give me that tour you promised or are you going to try to burn a hole in my porthole with your stare?" She asked him.

Harry sighed. “Sorry…I'm just processing…a lot right now."

“Last I checked we have a few days until we have to deal with anything," Jayna said as she adjusted the beads in her spines. She smiled over at him. “Until then, we should enjoy ourselves and the time we have."

“Just…something about this whole thing is just too…." Harry waved his hand in an attempt to convey how strange the situation felt.

Jayna slipped over to his side and placed a finger on his lips. “Shhh, this is our time now. Leave work with work."

Harry chuckled softly. “You make it sound so easy."

“That's because I make it easy." She purred, patting the side of his face affectionately. “You need to learn to do that. Are you ready?"

“Yeah, I already put in the request to do this," said Harry. “Since the little hijacking incident they've really tightened security. We'll have to go by a checkpoint before we get on board and we won't exactly have the ship to ourselves. There is an armed detachment of marines on the ship at all times now. Fortunately their job isn't too hard. We're a small crew and they have a good idea who is and isn't supposed to be on the ship."

“How many marines?"

“Ten. They mostly stay on Deck 4. We took one of the cargo bays we converted for Ambassador Kolnoz and just made it a berth."

Jayna raised an eyebrow. “I'm surprised you had the room. You always make it sound like the Raptor is a bit cramped."

“It is," Harry said with a slight grin. “Shall we?"

They left the Aether and walked along the docking area until they approached the Raptor's airlock, which was guarded. After they were cleared they passed through the gangway. Jayna took a deep breath and let it go.

“Are you going to be ok?" Harry asked.

“It's not what I expected." She admitted.

“You know this was your idea to do this?"

Jayna nodded. “It's just…different is all. It's quiet."

“Well, it's not powered up, that would be a lot of it," Harry explained as they moved deeper into the ship. “You sort of have to be here during normal operation for the full effect."

“I expected more, I guess." Jayna said, looking around as they walked. “Aside from the rather garish color choices for the interior, it just seems like another ship."

“The decor wasn't my idea," Harry chuckled. “I found it that way when I got here. That would be Fara's work."

“Can we see the bridge?"

“Sure," Harry said, motioning toward a turbolift.

The aft starboard side doors to the Raptor's bridge opened and the standby lights dimly illuminated the bridge. All the consoles were dark as the two of them stepped off the turbolift. The main viewer gave off a faint silver glow as it displayed a gently rotating image of the Confederation insignia.

Harry started to move forward, but Jayna held her ground. He turned back to her. “You alright?"

“I…need a moment," she said, her eyes roving over the bridge as though glimpsing the face of an adversary. She let his arm go. “I can manage from here."

“Alright," Harry said softly as he stepped back.

Jayna walked further onto the heavily shadowed bridge, pulled off her shades, and hooked them in the neck of her blouse. She turned slowly, pausing as she faced each station. She stopped behind the command chair, moving as though she intended to touch it and then pulling her hand back.

“So…this is it, your bridge."

“Yes."

A faint smile lifted the corners of her mouth. “It's cozy…a lot different from the production model." She ran her fingers along the engineering console before she turned back and looked at him. “I was able to see the Falcon while she was still being built, prior to…well…prior to the incident."

“Oh," Harry said, moving to the communication station's chair and leaning on it. “It's definitely different. When I was on your ship, it took some getting used to. The Raptor got me accustomed to small spaces."

“I could tell," she chuckled. “I remember you looked a little lost on the Aether's bridge for the first week." She walked towards the Conn, her eyes picking it apart one panel at a time. “I bet you all get pretty familiar with each other rather quickly on this little boat."

“Yeah, we do." Harry said with a smile. “You tend to learn everyone's face when on long patrols. It's a mixed blessing…especially if we take casualties."

Jayna glanced at the command chair. “May I?"

“Be my guest."

She walked over, stepped up to the command chair, and sat down, settling into it and crossing her legs as if it were her own. Harry slowly walked past her, noting that her expression became troubled as she took a few deep breaths.

Not wanting to be rude, he walked over to the conn, gently spun the seat around to face her and sat with his hands on his knees.

“Go ahead…ask," she said. “You're going to anyway."

“I think you already know the question," Harry replied quietly.

Her new eyes locked onto him, drilling into him as he stared back. “I'm trying to put myself in your place that day."

Harry nodded. “That's…hard to do. The records were deleted by the Epsilon Three. All you have is my report and the reports my crew filed."

“I'm good at solving puzzles and I know you," she said coolly.

“Ok, I'm game. What do you think happened?"

She took another deep breath, let it out slowly, and closed her eyes. It was quiet for a few minutes as she continued breathing deeply, as though trying to sniff out what had happened.

“I think you found yourself out of options," Jayna said, eyes still closed as she continued. “Even Sarne testified that you demanded he do something to stop that…thing." She took a breath, her voice wavering a bit, playing out the whole scenario in the theater of her mind. “I believe you did try to warn us to veer us off…but you couldn't." Her fingers clutched the armrests of the command chair. “I think…when…."

There was a snap as the armrest pad on her right broke free from the command chair and clattered to the ground. Her eyes opened and snapped to the source of the sound. She stared, her concentration broken as she tried to reconvene her thoughts.

“I'm sorry," she breathed. “I didn't mean to…."

“Don't worry about it," Harry said, getting up and picking up the pad. He held it up to show the small plastic bits that held it in place were broken. “I…uh…I broke it…that day. I was gripping it a little too hard. We just never got around to fixing it. Believe it or not, it's stayed in for the most part."

Jayna moved her arm and watched as Harry put it back in place. With a light tap from his fist it seated in place.

“I didn't even notice until a few weeks later that I'd broken it," Harry sighed, then looked up and saw her smiling at him.

“I'm sorry, so sorry, for how I treated you," she said, her voice cracking a bit. Her composure was breaking. Harry took her hands and gently pulled her to her feet. He wrapped his arms around her and she latched onto him. Tremors ran through her as each of them waited for the other to say something. Finally, Harry found his voice.

“Crying is ok on my bridge," he whispered, “especially if it's just us Captains."

Jayna tried to laugh around her sobs as she squeezed him tightly.

* * *

Promenade Level, Starbase 186

“Ah! Doctor! Long time no see! And who is your lovely guest?" Asked a tall, white furred Urthean as they entered a store.

“She's a patient of mine, Kazan," Okan replied as Amelia followed him through the door. “Since she's going to be with us for a while, I thought maybe we could use your expertise and get her some things to wear."

“Ah yes, I see! I was hoping she was something more. It's been a while since you've been by, Doctor." He smiled widely. “I missed our conversations." He then turned to Amelia. “And what is your name, my dear?"

“Amelia." The feline replied.

Kazan looked her over. “You appear to be an Aldari. I may just have something you might find more comfortable than that drab affair. Have a look at a few of these scarves while I check my inventory."

Amelia nodded and began picking through the display. Okan followed Kazan over to his counter.

“Problem, Doctor? You look a bit frustrated," Kazan chuckled.

“Why is it that everyone else I have encountered today, including Jakar, know of her species and the rest of us are in the dark?"

“It's because her world is located deep within the swirling masses that are the Badlands and her species is not known for being very sociable. They can be encountered occasionally while traversing that treacherous region of space." He smirked. “Considering how you found her, she was probably abducted at a young age by the Black Stars."

“Have you been poking your nose in where it should not be, Kazan?" Okan asked disapprovingly.

“Only to keep an eye on local happenings, Doctor! We do live in an exciting area of space." Kazan said, grinning as he grabbed a data pad, a stack of various cloth, and set them on the encounter. “You forget I used to have a different profession before I decided to become the magnificent weaver of fine ladies and gentlemens wear that I am today."

Okan rolled his eyes as Kazan walked over to Amelia and presented her a pad. “Here you are, my dear. Please peruse this selection and pick out some outfits you'd like."

“Thank you," she said, sitting down in a nearby chair and looking through the selection.

“So tell me, Kazan, did the Urtheans encounter them through the usual means?"

Kazan chuckled. “Oh, yes we did. Let's just say they didn't give us much reason to try to conquer them after the first encounter. Their vessels are way more adapted to the Badlands than our own. In fact, the Alderi apparently have an ancient alliance with several other species there and, let's just say, they aren't keen on welcoming outsiders."

Amelia spoke up. “Mr. Kazan, I have found some I like."

Kazan walked over, taking the pad back and looking it over. “Excellent! Give me a moment and I'll have some mock ups replicated. Once you try them on I'll make the real thing for you. One moment please."

“Your friend is very interesting," Amelia said as he went. “He is a lot like that man in the black uniform."

“Tell me about it." Okan snorted, rolling his eyes. “He's an exile from the Urthean Empire. He came with the station when the Keldryians handed it over."

“Is he not your enemy?" Amelia asked.

“He isn't. His people on the other hand are," Okan said reassuringly. “He's harmless…mostly. Just between you and me, I wouldn't ever try to rip him off."

Amelia laughed. “I think I understand."

Kazan emerged from the back with a replicated sample. “Here you go my dear! The fitting room is right over there." He said pointing to a small draped booth on the far wall.

Amelia thanked him, took the outfit and disappeared behind the curtain of the changing booth.

“You should take care with her doctor," Kazan said in a low tone. “It may not be to her benefit for her to regain her memory in its entirety."

“Oh? And since when are you an expert?" Okan scowled.

“Let's just say if it's only a fraction of what I can imagine she was put through, you don't want to find out." Kazan shrugged. “But what do I know? I'm just a humble tailor."

Okan was about to respond when they heard the booth's curtain slide back. Amelia emerged wearing the one piece blue bodysuit with the scarf draped over her shoulders and belt she had picked out.

“I like it, but I don't know how it looks."

“Fortunately I have some mirrors right over here." Kazan said, walking over to a wall panel and touching it. A set of three mirrors to pop out along with a small raised pedestal. “Take a look."

Amelia stood on the small pedestal, admiring her reflection before she suddenly looked shocked.

“Amelia?" Okan said, noticing her suddenly go rigid. “Are you alright?"

She was shaking, eyes wide, fur on end as she pointed at the mirror.

Kazan and Okan exchanged looks and tried to see what she was seeing.

“There's nothing wrong with that mirror." Kazan said as he took a half step away from her.

“It's not the mirror," Amelia croaked. “I remember…that!" She was still pointing, still wearing a look of pure terror on her face.

Okan tentatively stepped up to her side. He frowned. Somehow the mirror was creating an infinity effect. Amelia's reflection was stretching back into an illusionary void that had no end and no beginning.

“This it," she cried, “this was in his mind!"

Cracks suddenly raced through the mirror. Okan leapt back as the room was filled with a sharp “crack" and the mirror collapsed. Amelia was shaking violently as Okan stumbled away.

“Well…" Kazan said, his voice cracking a little, “I suppose I'll go and get a broom." He quickly rushed off to the back of his shop.

“I'm sorry," Amelia gasped, stepping off the pedestal haltingly as Okan approached cautiously.

“Did you remember something?" He asked carefully.

“I saw everything I could ever be, but I became lost in it. The loop went on forever…I couldn't escape. All I was, was no more." She whimpered, shaking her head to dislodge the memory. “I remember only that…and my name." She said, shaking a bit.

Kazan returned and started to clean up the shards of glass. “Do not worry yourself about this my dear. Accidents do happen." He said, sweeping the glass into a dustpan.

Okan took his tricorder and scanned Amelia. “I think that's enough for one day. Amelia, do you think you can make it back to the medical bay for some rest?"

She nodded.

“Thanks Kazan, just have the outfits made. I'll pay for them…and the mirror." Okan said.

“Don't worry about the mirror, Doctor! As for the clothes, I'll just have them sent to you as soon as you're done. Good health Amelia! I hope to see you again."

Amelia nodded tiredly and left the shop with Okan.

Kazan whistled as they left. He looked over the now empty frame of the mirror, raising an eyebrow at it. It was mostly speculation on his part, but he couldn't help but think that things were going to get a lot more interesting. He only hoped the Alderi didn't accidentally rip the station apart.

“Eh," he shrugged as he went back to sweeping. “If that does happen, it will be a hell of a show."

* * *

The Next Day

Doctors Okan and Counselor Modorro sat across from Ameilia in a small conference room while Harry, Jayna, and Captain Stiles watched through one way glass. Okan insisted on being present and his request was granted. He was sitting patiently as Modoro read off a few basic interrogatory questions, all of which resulted in known answers. It was becoming clear as the hours passed that Amelia was becoming irritated and bored.

"I am sorry, but I really can't help you." The blue haired feline replied. "All I know is my name and that I woke up here. I know you don't trust me, but I mean you no harm. Please do not be upset with me."

"We are not upset, Amelia." Consoler Modorro said, taking notes as he spoke. "We are just trying to learn what we can from you."

"I was addressing the ones on the other side of that wall," Amelia said, pointing towards the blank wall behind them. "They are upset with me."

Okan and Modorro exchanged glances. On the other side of the one way glass, Stiles sat back with an amused snort.

"Why are they there?" Amelia asked.

Doctor Okan cleared his throat. "They are just concerned and they were hoping for some answers. If there are none to be found, then there really is no point in pressing the matter, is there gentlemen?" He turned and glared over his shoulder at the wall.

"Well, Harry, she's your ward. What do you want to do with her?" Stiles asked, tapping his cane pensively.

"I was hoping she could tell us something, but if she's really telling the truth about her memory loss there is no need to continue." Harry sighed, looking at Amelia as she rested her head in her hand, elbow on the table, and irritatedly blowing up at the bangs of her blue hair. "Jayna?"

"If you both were dogging me for answers I didn't have for this long I'd have tried to kill you already." Jayna said from her seat, sipping some tea. Both Harry and Stiles chuckled, both aware of how accurate the response was.

Amelia suddenly burst out laughing, shocking both Modorro and Okan. She apologized and smiled directly at Jayna.

"If she knows nothing, let it go," Jayna finished, squirming in her seat a little as she held Ameila's gaze.

"Let her get on with her life and try to help if you can," Stiles said with the tiniest of shrugs.

Harry hit an intercom switch. "That will be all, Doctor. See to it that our guest has proper accommodations and we will try to help her find her way home at first opportunity."

"Harry?" Amelia said as her eyes turned to his position. "Thank you. I'm sorry for what I did to you and your friends."

Harry paused as the memories of that event flashed through his head. They weren't his memories. They were hers. Each memory had regret pinned to it and he could feel it sinking into his chest as the memories closed again.

"You are forgiven," he said after a beat. “Just keep your nose clean and there won't be any problems."

A few hours later Amelia was free to wander the station as she wanted. Her quarters were bare and gloomy. She didn't really want to stay in them for now. She returned to the Promenade and milled about, reading their thoughts and emotions, drawing quiet amusement when they would say one thing and feel the other.

She had been given a card with a small allotment of credits on it to purchase luxuries or crafted items. She thought maybe she could find something that would catch her fancy. She was wearing the outfit that Kazan had delivered to her quarters, which helped her blend in as she moved along with the throngs of civilians, travelers, and merchants. There were many stalls and she would pause when one caught her eye, curiously looking at the various items each of them carried. She was toying with the idea of purchasing a little fountain that looked like a tiny mountain when the fur all around her neck stood on end. Someone was focused on her.

She turned quickly, but didn't see anyone there.

"Hey! They let you out of the sick ward finally and ya ain't locked up!" She heard a voice say. Her ears picked up the voice and her eyes darted downward to a male rat with a shock of red hair.

“Yes," she said evenly as he approached. “I'm free. How do you know…" She searched his mind rapidly and found the memory of their first encountered her. “Oh…I see."

“Oh, well um, let's just say we met on the ship," Knackt said.

She felt his guilt, but there was also concern for her well being, even admiration, a dash of adoration, and beneath that….

“Oh!" She laughed, her frown disappearing into quiet amusement. She could feel herself blushing as she perused the primitive thoughts buried under the din of his consciousness about her. “They call you Knackt, right?"

He chuckled nervously. “Yeah…how'd you know?"

“You were mentioned during the interrogations," she lied.

“Ah, I'm that popular! Who'd have thought?" Knackt laughed. “So, uh, what are you doing with your new found freedom?"

“Just trying to…fit in?" she shrugged.

“Oh, yeah? That's cool. So, what's your name?" Knackt asked. “I never got to ask."

“It's Ameilia."

Knackt whistled. “That's a bit fancy, since mine is so short. Let's make it fair. Can I call you Amy instead?"

“Ok." Amelia smiled. “Amy…I like that."

“Great! So, have you been given the grand tour yet?" Knackt asked excitedly.

“No, I've only been to a few places." Amy replied, unable to keep from smiling. “I could use some help. Would you mind?"

“Nah! I know all the best spots on this station! Come on!" He took her hand suddenly and shoved his way through the crowd.

Ameilia's smile widened a little as she followed Knackt. She at least knew that he was being sincere and she would be safe with him.

* * *

A few days later, Conference Room, Starbase 186

Harry and Jayna sat at a table with Captain Stiles as the wall viewer displayed Admiral Leyton, Commodore Striker, and Captain La'Crosse. La'Crosse had formerly been Captain of the Monitor, but he and his crew had been transferred to the brand new Akira Class Fortuna while the Monitor had been transferred to Commodore Striker. Much to Harry's chagrin, this situation was turning into a case of “hurry up and wait", something he cared little for, especially when it involved threats to the Confederation.

“I do apologize for the delays but the situation has changed since the initial dispatch for our current mission," Leyton said from behind his desk.

“Sir, with all due respect," Commodore Striker said on the split screen, seated in the ready room of the Monitor. “The Monitor shouldn't even be pulled off its duty in the Lylat system. We're facing a potentially volatile situation here."

“Commodore, your objections will be noted, but Fleet Command believes the situation on the Prell border requires our attention more. Pulling together a task force in our current state is causing some problems. Captain La'crosse, what is your ETA?"

“We're still a ways out, Admiral." The Cornerian wolf replied. “At best, if we push it, we can be at Starbase 186 in a week."

Leyton sighed and smoothed his feathers. “I'm sure most of you are aware that the Fleet is stretched a bit thin right now. With the aid being sent to Kistor, the caravan escorts, the various plagues across the Confederation, the Borg attack five years ago, and all of this without mentioning recent events, the last thing we need right now is a scuffle with the Prell…"

Harry scowled as Leyton said the word “recent". The comment felt like an accusation. He felt Jayna squeeze his leg reassuringly under the table. While this did help, it also confirmed that the statement had been a direct dig at him.

“Admiral, what about the Osprey and Eagle? I thought they were supposed to be launched soon," Jayna asked.

“They are experiencing technical problems," Leyton hissed. “I'm waiting on an update from the Fleet Yards as we speak. Unfortunately, we will have to wait. If we're going into a tussle with the Prell, I want to make a strong showing."

A fine damn mess you made, Harry thought as he scowled at Leyton. Yet you get to be above reproach and keep your position.

Harry spoke up. “Admiral, do you have any further information on what may have provoked the Prell to attack Starbase 85?"

“No. The Prell aren't exactly known for communicating through diplomatic channels, Captain." Leyton responded tersely. “We assume it's them. We've had a few listening posts go silent in that region and one of our colonies as well." He paused, drumming his talons on the desk in front of him. “Although…the Prell have been relatively quiet for the last twenty years. Why they have suddenly gone hostile without provocation from us is unknown. We have asked the Keldryian's to send some ships, but they are, of course, being reluctant to dispatch one of their cruisers."

“Admiral, the Raptor has a Keldryian cloaking device," said Harry. “The Raptor could easily infiltrate Prell space to investigate the situation. At least we will be acting instead of waiting on the task force to assemble."

Leyton seemed to be slowly turning the idea over in his head.

“Captain Martinez has a point," said Striker. “Even if we get the task force assembled, we literally have no idea what we are walking into."

“If we have a better grasp on the situation we'll look a lot better when we show up, even if we're a bit late," La'Crosse added.

“If I'm going to commit to this and pull away from the situation on Corneria, I would rather it not be for some Prell commander just trying to make a name for himself." Striker said with a rueful grin.

“The Cornerians can handle their own situation," Leyton snapped. “This could be something worse than the Prell!"

“Admiral, with all due respect," Striker said coolly, “expending resources we don't already have on a wild goose chase could possibly make existing problems worse. I personally don't want to explain to Fleet HQ why an entire sector fell apart because we got caught with our pants down."

“Fine!" Leyton hissed, “Captain Martinez, take the Raptor into Prell territory and use the utmost discretion. Assess the situation and report back to us as soon as you can. Captain De'Sol, I want you to accompany them to the border. The Intrepid is in that region. Contact them and conduct a routine fly through the border region. If the Prell are watching, seeing a cruiser and a science ship together might peak their interest enough to let the Raptor slip past."

“Yes sir, we'll try to be as convincing as possible," Jayna smiled.

“Very well. Martinez." Leyton's face grew even more sour than usual as he addressed Harry. “Get in, get out, don't do anything to make this situation worse than it already is."

“Aye, sir," Harry responded.

“The rest of you, we'll rendezvous at Starbase 186 as soon as possible. Are there any further questions?" Nobody seemed to have any, so Leyton nodded. “Very well. Leyton out."

The channel closed and the others did so as well.

“I guess he doesn't want to wish us luck," Harry growled.

“Not when you are voluntarily flinging yourself into the fire," Jayna said flatly. “However, it was a reasonable suggestion. He would have looked like an idiot to shoot it down. If you succeed, the history books will give him the credit, you fail–"

“I know, I know! I'm the one left with the blame. What else is new?" Harry stood up. “I need to round up my crew. We should get underway." He paused, noticing that Jayna hadn't got up yet. “Something wrong?"

“A feeling." Jayna said sullenly. “It just came along suddenly." She started drumming her fingers on the table.

“Care to let me in?"

“I don't know…it's probably just jitters," she said as the confidence she normally carried started showing cracks. “I just had the feeling that I'm not going to see you again."

“I wouldn't worry too much. I have the best danger detector in the quadrant. They call it a Jakar," Harry said, trying to console her.

She gave him a slight smile, but her expression showed a lack of sincerity.

“I will be fine," he said as earnestly as he knew how.

“It's not you I'm worried about."

* * *

The next day

Harry stepped onto the bridge of the Raptor. This was the first time he'd done so in an official capacity since shortly before the hijacking. The ship thrummed with life and the deckplates vibrated as the Raptor's engines went through their pre-flight warm up cycles. His crew were all there, old faces and new, and greeted him as he stepped on board.

“Captain," Lt. Perry said, “we've already been cleared to get underway from base control."

“Thank you, Lieutenant," Harry said, stopping at Fara's console. “Chief, I trust the ship is ready for our little outing?"

Fara looked very relaxed for once and ran a hand through her hair as she smiled at him. “She's as good as she can be. I did a thorough preflight diagnostic this morning. I think we could use another week in the dock for repairs, but that's just my opinion."

Harry let out a little laugh and patted her station. “Nothing new there. Keep an eye on that cloaking device. We can't have it going on the fritz."

“I have an entire team dedicated to keeping that thing running," Fara said. “I'm sure it will be fine. It was actually installed by the Keldryians themselves."

“Good," Harry said, turning to the rest of the bridge. “Jakar? How are those weapon systems?"

“We have a full complement of torpedoes and I personally inspected each system myself this morning. There will be no problems." Jakar replied.

“I'm sure there won't be."

Harry stepped forward to O'mara's station. “Commander, I trust you're ready?"

“I downloaded everything I could about the Prell and that sector of space," O'mara replied. “If it's not in that mass of information, we haven't encountered it yet…and that does seem to happen a lot, sir."

Harry chuckled. “Excellent. If I have any questions I'll know whom to ask."

O'mara blushed a little and nodded. “Yessir!"

“Commander Rivas?" Harry spoke as he moved across the bridge. “Any concerns before we get going?"

“We got a full complement of experienced officers. I don't think we can be any worse off." Rivas shrugged. “I think everyones a bit anxious, but compared to what we've been through? This'll be easy."

Harry nodded. “It can always be worse. Very well," Harry said, climbing up to his chair adjusting his uniform before sitting down. “Let's get underway. Commander, if you will do the honors?"

“Releasing the docking clamps and umbilicals," Rivas said, typing in the commands. A dull loud thud resounded through the ship as the hard connection points pulled away. “We are clear."

The Raptor's power systems surged to life as it came free from the support of the station. The familiar eerie yet steady thrum of it's engines once again filled the bridge.

“Mister Kyle, take us out at one quarter impulse," Harry ordered.

“Aye, aye sir, one quarter impulse." Ensign Danny Kyle replied, working the controls.

The Raptor smoothly backed out of it's berth, rotated, and glided towards the already open bay doors of the Starbase.

“Sir, the Aether reports she is ready to get underway on your signal," Lt. Perry reported.

“Thank you Lieutenant. Tell them to follow our lead. Helm, do you have the course plotted?"

“Awaiting your orders sir," Kyle replied.

“Warp seven on my mark, Ensign," Harry said, taking a breath as he watched the Aether as they pulled ahead of it on the viewer. “Engage."

The Raptor leapt forward and disappeared in the distance in a flash with the Aether following close behind it. They were racing toward the unknown and they could only hope they were ready when they encountered it.