Tales from the Rebellion (Book 6 of the Chosen Universe)

by PinkAtHart

A series of one-shot stories about the Eltarian Rebellion. If you've read my other Power Rangers fics, you're familiar with the Rebels. Here you'll find bits of history from the Eltarian Rebellion as well as the stories behind what made the Rebels end up following the paths they did. Featuring all of the Rebels you know from the Chosen fics universe and some new ones.

32. Thirty-Two: Strong (B'Danna & Draze)

THIRTY-TWO: STRONG (The story of B'Danna and Draze. I've wanted to write this since I started Tales from the Rebellion, but it never felt like the right time. With B'Danna's story becoming a big part of Chosen Destiny, now feels like the moment to tell the story of two of my favorite members of the Rebellion of Eltar. Also featuring Laby, Jaybert, Amareese, Flekt, Tiffani, Captain Smith, Kizzie, Rupi, Tedius, Raffitty, Felina, Lido, Zydia, Garron, and several other Rebels... With an appearance by Amello and Hill.)

It was a cold night on Eltar. The stars shone brightly in the sky as two women in two different villages gave birth at the exact same time. Unknown to either woman, their children shared something in common... A father.

One child was born in incredible darkness as a storm lurked over her house. Only the light of a single black candle allowed her father, D'Danyel to see. As her mother screamed, the child emerged. D'Danyel took her into his arms. He looked at her mother, his beautiful wife Treya, and realized she was losing too much blood. He cast the newborn aside to try to save his wife's life, but she perished.

Horrified, D'Danyel pulled the infant back into his arms. He wondered if she might die, too. He noticed she did not cry like a newborn should. She studied him with her mother's dark eyes. Her other features were dark as well, and she already had a dark patch of hair on her head. As she watched him like she was trying to figure him out, he struck her across the face. She began to scream.

"Healthy lungs," he mumbled. "You are strong, my child... I shall raise you as such." He didn't name her. It didn't even occur to him as he prepared to bury his wife.

In the other house, it was also dark. There was no storm, however, and something very strange occurred as Elodie gave birth... The house was bathed in sunlight despite it being the middle of the night.

The fifteen-year-old Eltarian girl was all alone. Her baby didn't cry. He was still attached to her and she was losing more and more blood. Sobbing, Elodie begged for someone to help her.

The door to her home burst open. A man she didn't know came toward her. She was terrified, but he was quick to soothe her. "All is well," he promised. "My name is Hill. My friends alerted me to your situation. We have come to help."

"We?" Elodie repeated weakly.

That was when she saw the pixie. She believed she must be hallucinating from blood loss as she spotted several other creatures surrounding her.

"Faeries?" She asked softly.

"I have an affinity for working with them. The faeries love children. Your baby is in distress, and you are still a child yourself," Hill explained.

"I'm fifteen... A legal adult."

"Barely. Now, save your strength. We will tend to your son, but you require more help than we can give..." Hill took a deep breath before casting a spell into the air.

As Elodie grew weaker, another man arrived. "She's fading fast, Amello," Hill said urgently as he and the faeries focused on her son.

Elodie blacked out as Amello began trying to heal her. When she awoke, both men sat beside her. The faeries were fussing over her son.

"Is he alright?" She asked softly.

"See for yourself," Amello replied, helping her sit up slowly. Hill scooped the baby up to the protest of the faeries and put him in her arms.

The baby cooed contently. Elodie smiled down at him. "He's beautiful," she said. His eyes were a light shade of blue that was nearly grey. His skin was pale with only the slightest tinge of blue and his features were light. The hair on his head was blonde.

"Where is the boy's father?" Hill asked.

Elodie tensed, not wanting to tell them the truth. She didn't know who had fathered her child. She'd been assaulted by several drunk members of the Eltarian Guard while walking home late one night. She had been too afraid of what they'd do to her to tell anyone what had happened, and after all this time, it was surely too late. Without proof, her claims would be treason.

"I don't know," she replied honestly. "We were only together once. I'd never met him before."

"And your parents?"

"Upon learning I was pregnant, they decided I was old enough to take care of myself. It disgraced them that their fourteen-year-old came to them unwed and with child."

"They kicked you out? You poor child..." Amello said in horror.

"I am fifteen now. It is legal."

"Sweet child, I see the pain in your eyes. You did not do this to yourself," Hill said. "Tell us who harmed you. We will see justice served and make your parents understand you are innocent."

She shook her head. "They don't want me to tarnish the family name."

"What name might that be?" Amello asked gently.

She sighed. "Farmell," she replied reluctantly. "I was Elodie Farmell, but I have been banished and forbidden to call myself such."

"Jinny would never stand for such treatment of a young member of her line. If you let me tell her-" Hill began.

"No! You mustn't go to Jinnifer. Please. My father would kill me. At least banished I still get to live." She shook her head. "I am Elodie Farlez of Eltar, the first of my line."

"Why Farlez?"

"My son needs a proper name. My father was a Farmell, and my mother was a Willez. I am disowned but come from both lines. I think it suits me."

"You are very brave, Elodie Farlez of Eltar," Amello said sadly. "And what shall the boy be called?"

"Draze," she replied. "For he drew in the rays of the sleeping sun as he was born."

As Elodie held Draze, Hill frowned. "We must tell someone, Mel. This girl is still a child. She cannot raise her son on her own," he said. "Jinny would want them protected by her family."

"You know we can't interfere. She is a legal adult and has refused our help," Amello replied.

"You don't understand... Gozz has seen his future. This girl will turn cruel to her child." He motioned toward the elderly gnome who stood watching Elodie and Draze with concern.

"Hill... You know we can't interfere. Garron has insisted we must allow this child's path to unfold as it is meant to."

"Garron is a cold, calculating bastard. Draze is an infant, Amello."

"I know, but Garron's visions are rarely wrong. There must be a reason he warned the two of us to ensure Draze and Elodie survived but not to get involved further."

"I hate this."

"Do you think I don't? We have no choice, Hill."

And so, Draze was left in Elodie's care.

Meanwhile, the next morning, D'Danyel carried his infant daughter in his arms as he reported to work. Sir Matthew immediately walked over to him.

"Who is this?" He asked with a smile on his face. He took the infant into his arms and began fussing over her.

This got Lady Eleanor's attention. "Ah, the child has arrived," she said with a nod. "Congratulations, D'Danyel. How is Treya?"

"She perished in childbirth. I buried her," D'Danyel replied.

Lady Eleanor looked appropriately alarmed. "I'm terribly sorry for your loss. Is the child well?"

"Healthy as far as I can tell. She is strong."

"What is her name?" Sir Matthew asked.

"I have not named her yet. I assumed Treya would do it... All she told me was she wanted our child's name to be of the traditional B'Deston style, to reflect both of our heritages. I am loyal to Eltar, so much so that I have retired my surname, but I see no harm in using that style of name to honor the wishes of a dead woman." He shrugged. "Suggestions are welcome. I have no idea how to name a child."

Sir Matthew smiled as he looked into her eyes. "She is a survivor. She should have a strong warrior's name... What about B'Danna? It's the name of the heroine of one of my favorite childhood stories. She was a warrior with a pure heart who protected all those around her from injustice."

D'Danyel nodded. "Yes... Yes, that is a strong name. My daughter shall be B'Danna of Eltar. I shall not grant her a surname, as her only surname should declare her loyalty to her home."

"Well, Miss B'Danna of Eltar, it is a pleasure to meet you," Sir Matthew said before snuggling her.

Lady Eleanor offered up a rare smile. "Matthew adores children," she said fondly.

"I don't know what to do with one," D'Danyel admitted.

"Bring her to work. I'll make sure she's looked after until she's old enough to be on her own for short periods of time," Sir Matthew offered.

D'Danyel took him up on that. B'Danna was raised by the Eltarian Guard. As soon as she could stand, her father taught her to wield a sword. He didn't know how to raise a daughter, so he raised a soldier instead.

B'Danna was exceptionally disciplined from the time she was a toddler. The slightest misstep came with severe consequences. Her father would beat her until she corrected her error. The girl told no one of his cruelty. She simply worked harder to perfect her behavior.

From a very young age, B'Danna showed potential. By the time she was three, Lady Eleanor took her under her wing and started teaching her basic battle moves. She quickly proved she was a fierce little warrior, and Lady Eleanor came to care for her almost as if she were her own daughter.

Draze, on the other hand, showed an early aptitude for sorcery. His magic included calling on the sun, healing, and a spirit affinity, as well as a gift for spell work. From a young age, Draze loved helping others, and he dedicated himself to that whenever possible.

As the gnome had predicted, Elodie turned cold toward him early on. With no support system and what would surely be identified as postpartum depression by a proper doctor, Elodie grew to resent her son. She started drinking often and frequently left the boy to his own devices.

Despite rarely being shown affection by his mother, Draze was a kind, gentle boy who always had a smile on his face. He made friends easily and no one suspected he was suffering behind closed doors.

The children's lives were vastly different and yet eerily similar. They both endured horrible abuse at the hands of their only parent, but each reacted to it differently. B'Danna grew into a fierce warrior, while Draze remained so gentle the unicorns embraced him.

Lady Eleanor was certain B'Danna would grow up to become a Captain of the Eltarian Guard. Unfortunately, she was also becoming suspicious of her home situation.

By then, D'Danyel was a highly-ranked member of the Guard, and B'Danna knew better than to dare speak against him. Rank was everything. Her father must be given the respect his position demanded. Following the orders of authority figures had been drilled into B'Danna's head for her entire life and it was a core part of her. She respected the chain of command.

Never knowing kindness except for the way Sir Matthew indulged her, B'Danna believed the entire world was harsh and constantly ready for battle. It was simply normal for her.

"B'Danna, are you listening to me?" Lady Eleanor asked suddenly as she realized B'Danna seemed distracted.

"I must return home, Lady Eleanor," the fourteen-year-old replied.

"Child... If there is something troubling you, this would be an excellent time to share it," Lady Eleanor said with uncharacteristic kindness.

B'Danna knew her father had been out drinking with his friends. He was unbearable when drunk, but she couldn't tell Lady Eleanor that. He was all she had, and Lady Eleanor might take him away from her. She was one of the few Eltarians who outranked him. Ending up in an orphanage was a far worse fate than being raised by the Guard. B'Danna had heard rumors of what happened to those children.

"I am well," B'Danna lied. "Thank you for your concern."

Lady Eleanor frowned. "I have seen your bruises, B'Danna. No one has the right to cause such harm to a child... No matter who he is. I cannot act without more evidence, however... If you come forward, I will launch a formal investigation and keep you in protective custody until-"

"There is nothing to investigate. No one has hurt me. I am a warrior, and bruises are a natural consequence of this." She bowed her head respectfully. "Thank you for our training session, Lady Eleanor. Good day." B'Danna walked away.

She headed to her home. She walked into the house and was greeted by her father and several of his Guard friends. There were eight of them in total, and they were all drunk. She tried to run toward her room.

"Stay here with us, Daughter," D'Danyel said, blocking her path. Suddenly, the men gathered around her, each getting too close. Their hands roamed to places they did not belong. B'Danna tried to get away, but they would not allow it. As they tore at her clothes, she did the one thing she'd been trained to do, and she fought.

It took everything she had to battle so many soldiers, but she refused to give in to their desires. B'Danna would not become their victim. She was strong, and she'd be damned if she let them violate her.

B'Danna killed the first one with a single well-placed blow to his nose, doing irreparable damage to his brain. She used her sword to impale one in the chest while kicking another in the head at an angle which broke his neck. She continued fighting until only her father was still standing, ending the lives of the others quickly and efficiently.

They beat her severely that day, but she never stopped fighting. As a result, she escaped with both her life and her virginity, but barely.

She saved her father for last and took her time with him. B'Danna was enraged at the situation and at everything she'd been through in the last fourteen years. She took out D'Danyel's legs so he could not flee, then beat him with the butt of his own gun.

B'Danna looked him dead in the eye as he pled for her to show him mercy and let him live. That was when she shot him with the weapon he'd loved more than he had ever been capable of loving her.

Having committed treason, B'Danna ran. She was half-dead and certain she had no other choice. She as going to be executed. Not even Lady Eleanor and Sir Matthew would be able to get her out of this. She hid in the woods, still losing blood, positive this was the end.

Something called to Draze that night. His mother was passed out drunk, so he headed to the woods, following his instincts. What he saw stunned him.

A girl who looked about his age was curled up in the bushes, bleeding and severely beaten. Her clothes were bloody and torn, but they covered her more personal areas well enough. He approached her gently, like she was an injured wild animal. She tensed and glared at him like she might attack.

"All is well now," Draze said soothingly. "You are safe. I can heal you. Will you allow it?"

Something about the way he asked instead of demanding or just doing it made B'Danna give him a chance. She nodded, not daring to speak.

Draze began healing B'Danna's injuries. She felt significantly better when he was done. She studied him cautiously. He smiled kindly in response. Finally, B'Danna said, "Thank you."

"Of course," he replied. "I'm Draze, by the way."

"I am B'Danna of Eltar," she said.

He smiled wider. "Well, B'Danna, I can see you've run into some trouble. How else can I help?"

"You can't. You've done enough. I will be fine, but you should leave. They will come for me soon."

"The people who hurt you?"

"Unlikely. I killed them." She paused, waiting for him to react.

He considered her for a minute. "It looks like they deserved it," he said softly. "I am not one for violence, but sometimes, monsters must be slain."

She was surprised he didn't run from her. "They tried to take what they had no right to. I refused to allow it."

Draze reached toward her slowly. B'Danna flinched slightly, but as his hand gently moved some of the hair that had escaped her ponytail away from her face, she relaxed.

"You aren't going to hurt me," she decided aloud.

"No," Draze agreed. "I don't typically hurt others, and you won't be the first to change that. I have no reason to harm you, B'Danna."

She nodded. "Go home, Draze. I'm fine."

Draze knew he had no choice. His mother would likely awaken soon. She'd be furious if she realized he was missing.

"Be safe, B'Danna," he said. He dutifully returned home.

Unfortunately, his mother was awake. Elodie attacked him almost immediately, slapping him for daring to go out. She did it two more times before she vomited all over the floor.

Draze held her hair and stroked her back soothingly, trying to help her feel better. This was a normal routine for them. He cleaned her up and gave her some water before cleaning the floor.

"My little angel..." Elodie said with too much affection. "You take such good care of me."

"You should rest, Mother," Draze said.

"Help me to bed, Angel."

Draze wanted to refuse, but that would only anger her. He helped her to her bedroom and assisted her to the bed. He was about to run when she pulled him onto the bed beside her. What happened next was inevitable, but he still wished he could stop it. She'd been using his body for years, often telling him he deserved it for what his father and his friends had done to her. He couldn't bring himself to hurt his mother, so he didn't try to stop her even as he got older.

The next morning, Draze went into the city and picked up some clothes. He brought extra food he'd made and headed into the woods.

B'Danna was shivering from the cold. She jumped as she sensed she was not alone.

"It's just me, B'Danna," Draze said soothingly.

"Why are you here?" She asked.

"I come bearing gifts," he replied cheerfully. He handed her the clean clothes and the food.

B'Danna looked at him in surprise. "Why are you helping me?"

"Because someone should... And we're friends now."

"Friends? We barely know each other and I admitted I'm a murderer."

"Everyone has some problems. That doesn't mean they don't deserve friends."

"I've never really had any of those. I was raised in the Guard. I don't know anyone my age."

"I'm fourteen. Do I qualify?"

"I am, too."

"Great! See? We're meant to be friends, B'Danna... And I take care of my friends."

"If I had any, I would protect them with all I possess."

"You have me, so that's good news." He smiled at her. It was impossible not to smile back.

In B'Danna's experience, men were not trustworthy or kind. Only Sir Matthew had ever shown her true kindness without an ulterior motive. She realized quickly that Draze was one of the rare males she could trust. Besides, the idea of having one person in the universe she could call her friend was more appealing than she wanted to admit.

After that, Draze came to see her every day. He brought her food, blankets, and anything else she needed. He always had a smile on his face and his presence comforted her as no one's ever had before.

One day, she noticed something which alarmed her. "Who did it?" She demanded.

"What?" Draze asked in confusion.

"Those marks on your arm... Someone harmed you."

"It's nothing..."

"Draze... Tell me the truth. Please."

He sighed. "My mother's boyfriend came over last night. Things got a little out of control. I'm alright, B'Danna."

"I'll kill him."

"No you won't. You'll forget about this. You're not facing any more murder charges."

"I'm wanted for treason. What's one more dead creep?"

He smiled at her sadly. "I'll be alright, B'Danna." He kissed her forehead. She'd never let anyone do that, but Draze was different. It didn't bother her or seem condescending. She knew he respected her and was only trying to comfort her.

She didn't believe him. B'Danna let him go home, but she followed him at a slight distance. She lingered outside of the house, waiting for any signs of trouble.

Over an hour later, she heard the unmistakable sound of Draze crying. She kicked in the front door and headed toward the room where she could still hear him sobbing and whimpering.

It was worse than she'd imagined. Not only was Draze bruised and bloody, but he was naked. A woman B'Danna knew must be his mother was touching him in ways no mother should and a man stood behind him, doing unspeakable things.

Rage took over and she reacted, drawing her sword and shoving it into Draze's mother's chest. She barely had time to scream before she fell to the floor dead. B'Danna didn't waste any time before ripping the man away from Draze and flinging him into a wall. She pinned him there with her sword to his throat.

"How dare you?" She demanded.

The man began to whimper even more than Draze was, terrified by this turn of events. "Please... Don't hurt me," he begged.

"You didn't listen when he said it, so why should I listen to you now?" She allowed her words to sink in before she slashed his throat open. The wound was deep and he bled out before his body even fully hit the floor.

B'Danna wrapped a blanket tightly around Draze's body. "Shhh..." She said as he sobbed. "You're safe now. They'll never hurt you again."

"You... You killed them..." Draze whispered in shock.

"I told you, I protect my friends with everything I have." She paused. "I'm not sorry I did it, but I'm sorry it upset you."

He shocked her as he whispered, "Thank you..."

"You're welcome."

"I couldn't hurt her... But I'm so tired, B'Danna... Every night is another nightmare... It never stops..."

"It's over now. I promise. I'll never let anyone hurt you like that again."

He hugged her and sobbed in her arms. She held him until he was finally calm enough to get dressed. She was going to leave him in his room to give him privacy when he grabbed her arm.

"Stay... Please?" He asked.

B'Danna nodded. She knew in that moment that she had to protect Draze no matter what. She turned around as he got dressed and said, "Come with me."

"Where will we go?" He asked nervously.

"I don't know... Somewhere they'll never find us."

They hid for several days in the woods. Unfortunately, after finding the newest bodies B'Danna had left behind, Mayor Freyst himself came after them. "Draze, go," B'Danna said firmly. "I will handle this and find you later."

She knew there was a very good chance that she would end up executed, but she didn't tell him that. Draze hesitated anyway. "I won't leave you," he said. "We're in this together, B'Danna. Forever, until the very end."

"Forever will end very soon if you don't leave. Just go, Draze. Please."

He ran off. Mayor Freyst found B'Danna moments later. She held his gaze, refusing to fear him. "B'Danna of Eltar! You are wanted for treason. We know what you did to those members of the Guard, including your own father. Do you have anything to say in your defense?" He demanded.

"They deserved even worse," she replied calmly. Normally, she would never disrespect the chain of command, but she needed to distract Mayor Freyst so Draze could escape.

"How dare you speak of members of the Eltarian Guard in such a manner!"

"Considering I killed them, I should think speaking of them negatively is the least of my offenses."

"You are under arrest! Return to the Counsel Building with me at once or face the consequences!"

"Is there a consequence worse than execution? I'm fairly certain that's where this is currently headed, correct?"

He moved to slap her. B'Danna caught his wrist in midair and broke it on reflex. He cried out in pain and shock and held his broken wrist in his good hand. He backed up several feet looking panicked.

She felt someone coming up behind her, but before he could do anything, he fell to the ground. B'Danna turned around in surprise and saw Draze standing over him with a large tree branch in his hands.

"Did you just knock out a member of the Eltarian Guard?" B'Danna asked.

"I believe so, yes," Draze replied.

"I thought you were against violence."

"I am, unless it's absolutely necessary... It seemed necessary."

"Young man... Put down the branch," Mayor Freyst said nervously.

"No, Sir, I don't think I will," Draze replied softly.

The Mayor stared at him in surprise. "Put it down before this gets any worse for you, Boy. Currently, it seems you acted impulsively because of B'Danna of Eltar, who has committed treason. If you do anything else, I may not be able to get you out of trouble."

"You're going to let us go, Sir," Draze said respectfully.

"I absolutely will not."

"Then I'm sorry about this, but I'm afraid it's necessary." Draze proceeded to swing the branch at Mayor Freyst. He hit him in the stomach, knocking him backward and causing him to double over. Then, he brought the branch down against his head. Mayor Freyst collapsed on the ground unconscious.

"Nice swing," B'Danna said after a moment.

Draze smiled at her. "Thanks," he replied.

She took his hand in her own. He was shaking, but he calmed down as she held onto him. "Let's go," she said.

"Where?"

"Somewhere they'll never think to look... Come on." She led him to a portal line she knew about because of the Guard. She activated it and led Draze through. He didn't hesitate as he followed behind her. Moments later, they ended up in a strange place they'd never seen before.

"Where are we?" Draze asked.

"Earth," B'Danna replied.

That was how B'Danna and Draze found themselves on Earth in 1884. They hid for a bit as they tried to learn about the culture around them. Earth was a strange planet, but thankfully, some of its languages had been taught on Eltar. In recent centuries, it had become standard for children to learn to speak English as well as some of the other more common languages. Since they were in Anaheim, California, most people spoke either English or German. Neither of them had ever heard German before, but they picked it up the more time they spent there.

They quickly adopted Earth names and identities. Draze became David and B'Danna began using the name Barbara. She hated it, but it was fairly common and didn't draw unwanted attention to it. Still, it never quite felt right to her.

Their time in Anaheim was uneventful. Mostly, they spent fifteen years trying to get as comfortable with Earth life as they could. They watched out for each other and managed to get by without too many issues. It wasn't until 1899 that the fact that they didn't age like other teenagers became an issue. They knew it was time to move on.

They found themselves in Rochester, New York. Ragtime was starting to become very popular and Draze fell in love with the unusual style of music. He took B'Danna to any place he could find where they could listen to the music live. B'Danna had to admit she enjoyed listening to music with him. Draze was never more at peace than when he was enjoying music, and seeing him so happy made her happy, too. Draze kept his name of David, while B'Danna became Dorothy. She didn't hate it as much as she hated Barbara, but it still felt awkward and wrong to her.

After nearly two decades in Rochester, they moved on again. This time, they ended up in Manhattan, not wanting to go too far from their former home. It was 1920 and jazz had taken over as the most popular form of music. Draze and B'Danna both loved jazz music. They often snuck into jazz clubs just to listen to it. At this point, B'Danna became Beatrice, a name she didn't despise quite as much as some of the others. Most people shortened it to Bea, and that felt much more natural to her than her other identities had.

B'Danna cut her hair short and blended in decently with the flappers, although she didn't consider herself to be one. She wore pants instead of the short dresses flappers were known for, but that was edgy enough for them to accept her. She also had no interest in the promiscuous nature of many of the flappers. B'Danna didn't see the appeal of sex or even kissing anyone. It simply wasn't for her. The girls accepted her, not caring that she was a little bit different than they were because she shared their love of jazz music.

Draze, on the other hand, did see the appeal of romance. As soon as he met Georgiana Joseph, he fell for her. The talented African-American singer was just starting to leave her mark on the local jazz scene. She was beautiful and charming and unlike anyone Draze had ever met before.

He began speaking to her one day at a jazz club. She quickly put his nerves at ease, making him laugh with stories of her experiences as a young performer. She seemed confused as to why a "white" boy was paying so much attention to her, but Draze didn't see the color of her skin as a reason not to get to know her. They grew close the more they talked, and one day, Draze took a chance.

"Miss Georgie, would it be acceptable for me to kiss you?" He asked softly.

Georgiana's eyes widened in surprise. She smiled at him after the shock wore off. "Yes, David," she replied. "I think that would be perfectly fine."

That first kiss was incredible. Draze had been so terrified of physical contact after everything his mother put him through, but this was different. He liked the way Georgiana's lips felt. They were soft and eager, kissing him back enthusiastically while he remained a bit shy. This led to several more kisses, and Draze fell deeper in love with her every day they spent together.

"B'Danna... I think I'm truly in love," he said one afternoon.

"I'd say so," B'Danna replied with a laugh. "You don't see the way you light up every time Georgiana comes into a room."

"Are you upset?"

"Why would I be upset?"

"It's always been just the two of us... Now I'm spending so much time with an outsider."

"Draze... The only thing I want in this world is for you to be safe and happy. I'll handle the safe part... Georgie's clearly covered the happy part."

"You make me happy, too. You're my best friend. No one can ever fill that role."

"I know. You're full of love, Draze. There's room for both of us in your life." She smiled at him. "I like the way she makes you feel. She's good for you."

With B'Danna's permission, Draze felt better about dating Georgiana. They met in secret because they knew no one would approve of an interracial relationship, but Draze didn't care that they looked different. He would have loved her no matter what.

As B'Danna was teaching some of the flappers self defense so they could fight off any drunk men they ran into at the clubs and speakeasys, Draze focused on Georgiana. After over five years together, he finally decided to propose to her.

"David... No one will accept this," Georgiana pointed out. "It's illegal in almost every state."

"Not here," Draze reminded her gently. "New York is one of the only states where it's perfectly legal to love you and let the world know it."

"You may still look like you're a baby, David, but I know you're smart enough to understand why we shouldn't do this."

"I've got good genes," he said with a laugh. He wanted to tell her the truth, but how could he? Then again, if he wanted to marry the girl, didn't he owe her that? He paused. "Georgie... Can I tell you something without you thinking I'm insane?"

"Maybe." She grinned at him playfully.

"Alright... I'm not from here."

"New York?"

"Earth."

She stared at him. "David... What the heck are you trying to say?"

"I'm from a planet called Eltar. So is Bea."

She laughed. Then she saw the look on his face. "You're serious..." She realized.

"I am. My real name is Draze. Bea is B'Danna."

"Da... Draze. I'm not sure how I should react right now."

"Just be honest. If you still love me, that is."

She sighed. "I do love you. I always will. This was unexpected, but I know you, Draze. How could I not love you?"

They talked for a while before Georgiana said, "The answer is yes."

"Pardon?" Draze asked.

"Yes, I'll marry you." She smiled at him. It was madness and they both knew it, but neither one cared. They were in love, and the whole world would know it soon.

B'Danna was happy for them. She celebrated with them and congratulated them, but she worried they might encounter trouble. She began keeping a closer eye on them after they announced their engagement.

One night as B'Danna led another self defense session, someone drugged Draze and Georgiana. By the time Draze came around, Georgiana was sobbing.

"Don't hurt him!" She cried. "Please just let him go."

"I'm okay, Georgie," Draze said soothingly, wishing he could get to her. They were both restrained. He was handcuffed around a pole. She was tied to a tree. He fought against the cuffs, but they held firm.

The police officer who was playing ring leader laughed at his struggles. "It won't work," he said. His six friends laughed with him.

"Why are you doing this?" Draze asked.

"You brought it on yourselves... Handsome white boy running around with the likes of her!"

Draze was furious. He was also terrified, not for his own safety, but for Georgiana's. He cast a spell without caring about exposing his powers. The handcuffs broke and fell off his wrists.

"How'd you do that?" The officer demanded.

Draze ignored him and ran toward Georgiana. He nearly reached her when gunshots rang out. Draze dove in front of her and tried to shield her with his body. He didn't scream as the bullets pierced his flesh, but Georgiana did.

"David!" She cried, protecting his true identity even as they faced death.

"I love you," he said weakly. He blacked out seconds later.

B'Danna felt it the moment Draze was shot. She ran from the training session to try to find him, but soon realized someone had beaten her to him.

Draze lay unconscious in a pool of blood. Two men stood over him. One had a gun tucked into his pants at the small of his back.

"Get away from him," she said sharply.

The unarmed one looked up in surprise. "I'm only trying to help him," he said in the last language B'Danna had expected to hear.

"You're Eltarian," she said in surprise.

"I am," he replied in English. "As are you and this boy, although you hide it well. My name is Tedius. I'm a healer. Your brother is going to be alright."

"That's just our cover story. He's actually my best friend."

Tedius looked skeptical, but he didn't contradict her. She could see Draze starting to heal. "What do you want in return for your help?" She asked suspiciously.

"Nothing. I simply saw a young man in distress and wished to help." He looked toward a dark alley and sighed. "I only wish I'd arrived in time to save them both."

B'Danna's chest suddenly felt tight. She walked toward the alley. Georgiana lay on the ground far too still. B'Danna knew death when she saw it. Unlike Draze, who'd been shot at least a dozen times, Georgiana only had one injury. There was blood all over her and B'Danna knew it must be Draze's.

He took the bullets to protect her, she realized.

"The bullet nicked an artery," the armed man explained. "The poor thing never had a chance." He shook his head. "In reality, your friend should have died, too. I pulled several bullets out of him and still more went straight through him. Even Eltarians can't survive that many bullets easily, except for the immortals. He was holding on for something."

She paused as she eyed his weapon again. "Why are you armed?" She demanded, still a bit suspicious of him.

"I am Rupi of Eltar. I'm always armed," he replied with a shrug. "Weapons are my specialty, but I will not harm you or your friend. We genuinely came to help."

"How did you find Draze and Georgiana?"

"Well, we live in New Jersey, but we came to New York to visit some friends and decided to have a night on the town... Things didn't go quite as we anticipated, but then again, they rarely do."

Seeing the way Rupi looked at Tedius, B'Danna understood. "You're lovers?" She asked.

"We understand having feelings for someone that society wouldn't approve of," he said instead of outright confirming it. "When we heard the things the men were saying, we knew we had to help this young couple."

"Who did this?"

"They did." Rupi motioned toward a pile of ashes.

B'Danna's eyes widened. "What did you do to them?"

"I shot them," Rupi replied with a shrug.

"And they turned to dust?"

He laughed. "No, the bullets I used can't do that... Maybe one day. I used a spell to turn them to ash. It wouldn't do to leave bodies behind, especially when they were police officers."

"The police did this?!"

"There is corruption everywhere, my young friend. You identified Draze and Georgiana... What should I call you?"

"I am B'Danna of Eltar," she admitted. "You may call me Bea if anyone who's not Eltarian comes around."

"B'Danna..." Draze called weakly as he regained consciousness.

She ran to his side. "I'm here," she said, clutching his hand.

"Georgie... She... Where is she?" He managed to ask.

"Draze... Something happened," B'Danna said gently.

"No..." Draze whispered. He began to sob. B'Danna knew she had to tell him the details.

"It was only one bullet... It hit an artery. She probably bled out before she felt much pain." She sighed. "I'm so sorry, Draze."

"I tried to protect her... To shield her..." He shook his head.

"I know."

"If I'd been stronger, I could have healed her..."

"Draze, you are strong. You took twelve bullets for that girl and survived. You did everything you could for her."

"B'Danna is correct," Rupi said gently. "I am sorry for your loss, Draze. We tried to help your beloved, but it was already too late."

"Thank you for trying," Draze replied numbly. "And for saving my life." He looked at B'Danna. "I nearly let go, but I couldn't leave you, B'Danna. I felt you searching for me. I knew you'd find me, so I fought to survive... We're in this together, right? Forever, until the very end... I promised..."

B'Danna hugged him tightly. "I love you," she told him softly. He was the only person she'd ever said that to. "Thank you for not leaving me behind."

"You're both rather young..." Tedius began once they released each other.

"We're fifty-five. That is well beyond the legal age on Eltar," B'Danna replied.

"You're barely teenagers. Please, allow us to assist you. I'm certain Captain Smith would be willing to do something to help."

"I don't know who this Captain is, but we are fine on our own."

"At least allow us to assist with laying Georgiana to rest," Rupi said gently.

Draze started crying harder. "Please," he said softly. "She deserves a proper funeral, but I doubt her family will be able to afford it. Georgie was a singer... She made a bit of money performing, but not enough for such expenses, and her parents don't have much. I'd give every cent I have to honor her memory, but B'Danna and I look like we're too young to work proper jobs... We don't have much either."

"We have money and resources. Whatever you need, just ask. We couldn't save her, but we'll help you honor her," Rupi replied.

Tedius and Rupi did exactly that. A few days later, Georgiana Joseph was laid to rest in a beautiful burial plot overlooking a small garden in the cemetery. They hired several of Georgiana's jazz musician friends to perform at her funeral, insisting on paying them despite their willingness to perform for free. It gave Draze comfort to hear the music Georgiana loved so much as it filled the cemetery in her honor.

"Two young Eltarians shouldn't be on their own in this world," Rupi said as his sister joined him at the funeral. Zydia had come to town to handle Rebellion business, but she couldn't resist a good jazz concert, so she'd crashed the funeral.

"We could recruit them," Zydia replied. "The girl's a fighter. I like her spirit."

"You know her?"

"B'Danna of Eltar's a bit of a legend back home. They say she killed eight members of the Guard when she was still a child. Alone. She's wanted for treason, and so's her little friend. Garron's had his eye on them, but he says it isn't time yet. Still, they're in trouble. I'm sure he wouldn't care if we brought them into the Rebellion to keep them safe."

"They're just kids, Zydia. We can't bring them into this. Draze is broken."

"Broken people make some of our best warriors."

That was true. Before Rupi could respond, however, Captain Smith said, "These children are far too young to be involved in our affairs. Let us spare them further trauma."

"Captain Smith... What brings you here?" Zydia asked.

"Micah told us about this tragedy and what your brother and Tedius are doing for the children. It's commendable, and I figured I would offer my services as well. Besides... I do lovea good jazz performance."

"Amen," Zydia replied with a smile.

"The children are no longer safe here, Captain Smith," Rupi said respectfully.

"What is their plan?"

"I don't think they have one."

"Find out where they'd like to go. I'll arrange transportation and a place to stay. They don't need to know where the money came from, but I would like to ensure their safety."

B'Danna was a little suspicious of the offer when Rupi approached them, but seeing how broken Draze was, she knew they couldn't stay in Manhattan any longer.

After a brief discussion, they decided to relocate back to California. Living as David and Donna Elton, they tried their best to lay low and recover from the trauma of everything that had happened in New York City. B'Danna missed New York, but California was better suited to Draze's personality. He found a way to relax and find peace far away from the chaotic city they'd left behind. They spent time at the beach and kept to themselves. Then, swing music reached the height of its popularity. This was enough to lure Draze back into the world.

They started going to swing clubs. They learned to swing dance. It was an excellent workout and B'Danna indulged Draze because he was finally happy again.

They stayed in California until it became obvious they weren't aging and people grew suspicious again. It had been a very long time. The world was changing. Young men were getting drafted and ending up dead in a war they had no business getting involved in.

New music had swept through the country. A lot of it was a bit perky and cheesy for B'Danna, but Draze loved it. The sweeter the love song, the more he ate it up. B'Danna became drawn to the darker music of the era which spoke of war and protests and actually meant something.

They hitchhiked across the country little by little, meeting many strange and unique individuals. The hippies might be an odd bunch, but they were friendly, they didn't ask questions, and they were willing to share everything they had with the two groovy kids who called themselves Dave and Donna. No one asked for surnames or paperwork or proof that they were old enough to drink. They weren't using the sibling cover anymore and simply told everyone they were best friends. It was a weird living situation, but for the first time, they were almost able to be themselves.

They moved from Volkswagen bus to commune and back again, meeting new people everywhere they went. Technically, they were homeless, but it never felt that way. Each new group welcomed them with open arms.

Draze wowed them with his magic. They marveled at it, accepting it as a groovy trick or as a gift from the universe, but never suspecting he was from another planet. B'Danna loved being around people who wanted to change the world and stand up against corruption. For the first time, both men and women listened to her opinions and valued them, never writing her off just because she was a female. While Draze focused on love and light, she focused on revolution.

They heard about a music festival meant to bring people together and help manifest peace. Considering their shared love of music, B'Danna and Draze agreed to go with the people from the commune where they'd most recently settled down. It was about three hours away in Woodstock, New York.

Woodstock was a crazy scene. They'd never been to a gathering quite that large. Still, they relaxed as the music started.

Draze was at the center of a crowd of hippies. Some they knew, many they didn't. Draze began playfully manifesting light in his hands. The hippies watched in wonder. B'Danna watched this nervously, worried Draze's magic would attract the wrong sort of attention, but no one seemed suspicious.

A boy wandered closer to them. He watched Draze for a moment before a mischievous grin appeared on his face.

"Groovy trick, Sunshine Boy," the boy said to Draze. "Wanna see something even cooler?" He waved his hands. Suddenly the hippies vanished from sight.

B'Danna's eyes widened in surprise before narrowing suspiciously. Draze gasped in shock.

"So, what brings you groovy kids to Earth?" The boy asked casually.

"Are any of us really on Earth, or is this all an illusion?" B'Danna replied, intentionally sounding stoned even though she was fully sober.

"Nice try, Space Cadets," the boy said. "I know you're Eltarian."

B'Danna reached into her bag and pulled out a dagger. She had it pressed to his throat in seconds. "State your business or perish," she said harshly.

The boy started laughing. "You can slit my throat if you want, but it won't do much," he replied. "I'm extremely immortal. Look, I'm not out to hurt you guys. I'm just here for the party, and I got excited to see other Eltarians here. I'm Laby. Can you put the dagger away now?"

"How do I know we can trust you?" B'Danna demanded.

"B'Danna... His intentions are pure," Draze said.

She hesitated for a moment before putting the dagger away. Laby smirked. "That's better," he said. "So, what are you doing here? You're obviously no flower child, um... B'Danna, was it?"

"It's easy to blend in with them," she replied with a shrug. "They're entirely too trusting and don't ask a lot of questions."

"You guys are still teenagers, right? How long have you been on your own?"

"A while," B'Danna admitted.

"It's been just the two of us for decades," Draze added. "I'm Draze, by the way... Or Dave to the hippies."

"Nice to meet you! Have you been on Earth long?" Laby asked.

"We were fourteen when we fled Eltar," Draze replied.

"Fled from what?" Laby asked.

"The Eltarian Guard," B'Danna said sharply. She might as well be honest. "I slaughtered eight of their top soldiers, including my father."

Laby's eyes went wide. "How the hell did you guys not end up on Garron's radar? You sound like people the Rebels would have rescued ages ago."

"Rebels?" B'Danna immediately became suspicious. "You are with the Rebellion of Eltar?" She reached for her dagger again.

"Look... I'm not here to hurt anyone. I honestly just thought it might be nice to hang out with other teenagers for a bit," Laby said. "I'm always surrounded by people who are older than me but were born long after I was. It sort of sucks being fifteen forever. I guess I'm a little lonely."

"We'll be your friends," Draze said.

"We will?" B'Danna asked.

"I trust him... And it might be nice to have someone we can count on besides ourselves, B'Danna," Draze said.

"Yeah, Bee Dee! I'm totally that. I'm extremely loyal to my friends," Laby said.

"Bee Dee?" B'Danna repeated with a frown.

"I like nicknames," Laby said with an apologetic shrug.

As another set started on the newest stage, Laby started swaying to the music. He shapeshifted into a teenaged girl and started screaming excitedly before transforming into a young man with long hair and a beard who wore a peace sign. "Psychedelic," he said.

"You're a shapeshifter..." B'Danna realized aloud.

"Yep," Laby said, transforming back into himself. "I've got lots of fun party tricks. Your friends are in a labyrinth right now looking at a bunch of pretty colors and lights."

"Aren't you worried they'll tell someone what you can do?" B'Danna asked.

"They're hippies, Bee Dee," Laby said with a laugh. "They'll blame it on acid, pot, or an out-of-body psychedelic experience."

"Fair point," B'Danna admitted.

Suddenly, a hearty laugh echoed through the air. Laby's face lit up with excitement. "Come on," he said. He headed toward the sound.

"Let's see what he's up to," Draze said. B'Danna sighed but followed him.

"I should have known you guys would be here!" Laby said to the jolly, plump man who'd been the source of the laughter.

"Laby, Lad! Good to see you!" The man replied, giving Laby a tight hug.

"You know we never miss a good party," another man said as he also hugged Laby.

"Tinny, Hezzo, meet B'Danna and Draze. They're stray Eltarians," Laby explained. "B'Danna, Draze, meet the Circle. They're part of the Rebellion, too. They're great guys."

"The Rebels are supposed to be the bad guys," B'Danna said.

"We're not what they make us out to be, B'Danna," a man said kindly.

"Maegus of Eltar? You're a Rebel?" Draze asked in surprise. "You're one of the most respected people in Eltar's history."

"We're not evil, Draze. It's a popular misconception, though. The Rebels stand against corruption in government and other positions of power," Laby explained. "We're kind of like the hippies, except most of us are willing to engage in violence when it's necessary."

B'Danna was surprised. She sensed the truth in Laby's words. She also noticed two of the Circle members staring at Draze.

"You're all grown up," one of them mumbled.

"Have we met?" Draze asked.

"Amello and I were there the day you were born," the man explained. "I am Hill. The faeries and I helped ensure you survived a rough entry into the world. Amello healed your mother."

B'Danna knew then that the Universe had put them all at Woodstock for a reason. "Tell me more about the Rebellion," she said to Laby.

He grinned before telling her the true story of the Rebellion of Eltar. By the end of the conversation, she was certain they were the sort of people she should be with. She and Draze stayed close to Laby and the Circle, partying and getting to know Laby better. The three of them became friends quickly, and even B'Danna couldn't deny she enjoyed his company.

At the end of the festival, Laby shyly asked B'Danna and Draze to come with him back to his Chapter of the Rebellion in Tiger's Bluff. B'Danna looked at Draze. He nodded, knowing what question she wanted to ask. B'Danna turned to Laby and said, "Alright... We're in."

Things were good in Tiger's Bluff. The Chapter they joined consisted of Laby, the Lieutenant, as well as the Captain, Jaybert, a rather maternal and kind Sorceress named Amareese, and her husband, a brilliant tactician named Flekt. Amareese immediately decided B'Danna and Draze were children she needed to protect. B'Danna was initially annoyed until she realized how incredibly soothing it was to have a mother figure in her life. The closest she'd come had been Lady Eleanor, and that woman was far from gentle and maternal.

B'Danna worked closely with Flekt and Jaybert. They both respected her skill in battle. B'Danna took comfort in the well-organized structure of the Rebellion. There was a clear chain of command and, for the first time in too long, B'Danna was truly part of something bigger than herself. She fell into line as the obedient soldier she'd been raised to be.

Amareese nurtured Draze's magic, helping it reach levels he'd never dreamed of. Draze took comfort in the fact that they finally had a family. The Rebels took care of their own and were fiercely loyal to each other. Finally, Draze felt like they had a true home for the first time since they were fourteen.

B'Danna and Draze were stunned when a couple of other Chapters came to visit. The Stone Hollow Chapter, led by Raffitty and his Lieutenant, Felina, was unfamiliar, but there were two faces they recognized in Captain Smith's New York Chapter.

"Rupi? Tedius?" B'Danna asked.

Tedius lit up at the sight of them. He immediately hugged them both. Rupi looked a little sad to see them. "You joined the Rebellion?" He asked.

"Laby convinced us," Draze replied. He offered Rupi a hug, taking comfort in being reunited with the men who'd tried so hard to help him with his grief after Georgiana died.

"I suppose all things happen in their time," Tedius said. "How have you been?"

They caught up. The visits from both Chapters were frequent because Raffitty and Captain Smith were very close to Laby, and Felina and Kizzie were close to Amareese. They quickly became like extended family to B'Danna and Draze. B'Danna greatly respected the members of both Chapters, especially Captain Smith, who radiated honor in all he did. He'd grown up in the Guard, too. He understood B'Danna in ways no one else could.

About five years after they joined the Rebellion, Jaybert took a liking to a human woman and got her pregnant. She perished in childbirth. Jaybert wasn't the paternal type. Amareese had a vision of her mother's death after Jaybert left to go to her. When Jaybert came home without the infant, Laby instantly grew furious. It was rare to see that, as Laby never liked to be too serious.

"Where's the baby, Jay?" He demanded.

"I left her beside her mother's corpse," Jaybert replied with a shrug. "What good is a half-human infant to me?"

Laby shoved him hard against the wall. B'Danna reached for her dagger automatically, but she was torn on who to attack. Laby was her friend and she was fiercely loyal to him, but he was the Chapter's Lieutenant. Jaybert was in charge. Draze understood her distress and squeezed her hand soothingly.

"Oh, Jaybert, you didn't!" Amareese said in horror. Flekt watched the unfolding scene curiously, not getting between Laby and Jaybert.

"Labyrinth, just what do you think you're doing?" Jaybert demanded.

"This is your daughter, Jay! How can you just abandon her?" Laby demanded.

"I intended to leave her in her mother's care until she was old enough to join us. The Rebellion is no place for an infant, Laby. I don't have the time to raise her."

"Tell me where she is," Laby said firmly.

"She's at her mother's apartment."

Laby released Jaybert. "I'm going to go get her," he said.

"Did you not hear me? The child is no good to us and I can't raise her."

"I'll care for the girl," Amareese said.

"I'll help," Laby added. "I'm great with kids."

"You are a kid," Amareese teased him affectionately.

"We'll help, too," Draze said. B'Danna looked at him in confusion, but she didn't contradict him. "The Rebellion is our family, and she's part of that family."

"She's useless to us," Jaybert insisted.

"Strategically, having a half-human child is actually quite useful," Flekt said, surprising them all. "She will grow up able to infiltrate the human world far better than any of us can. Let Laby bring the child home. She shall be an asset to us."

Jaybert nodded. "You do have a point, Flekt," he admitted. "Very well, Laby. Bring my daughter to us." He waved his hand dismissively before walking away.

Flekt winked at Amareese. That was how Draze and B'Danna realized he wasn't just seeing the infant as a pawn in the battle... He simply understood the best way to get through to Jaybert.

Laby left to retrieve the child. When he came back, he was smiling and the infant was cooing in his arms. Amareese immediately took her and began fussing over her.

"What shall she be called?" She asked when Jaybert returned.

"I have no idea what to call a human child... You name her," he replied.

Amareese studied the little girl before nodding. "Tiffani," she decided aloud. "Your name shall be Tiffani, sweet girl."

Tiffani seemed quite content with this. From that day on, everyone helped raise her. Jaybert paid little mind to Tiffani unless she was annoying him, but Flekt kept reassuring him she'd prove useful as she grew older. Even he showed a softer side of himself around the girl. She brought sunshine into their base, and she was delighted by Draze's light magic. He easily made her giggle, something she did on her own anyway.

From the time she was an infant, her attachment to Laby was clear. He doted on her and clearly adored having her around.

"You're great with kids," Draze told him one day as Laby played dolls with the toddler. He gave them each a unique voice and portrayed them enthusiastically and dramatically, delighting the little girl.

"I used to help take care of my best friend's baby sister," Laby replied. He looked incredibly sad. Draze knew better than to push him and left him alone to play with little Tiffani.

As Tiffani grew up, B'Danna and Draze proved they were ready for whatever the Rebellion threw at them. It surprised them when Jaybert gave them a mission, however. He enrolled them in the local high school a year before Tiffani would need to enroll.

B'Danna was miserable. She hated the idiot teenagers surrounding them. One day, however, they witnessed something that caught her attention.

A girl who was dressed in punk rock clothing that leaned a bit toward the gothic style B'Danna had adopted was walking down the hall when a boy spanked her. She turned around and kneed him hard in the groin. The boy fell to the floor in pain and cried out, "Damn, Ronnie, what was that for? I was just playing around!"

The girl rolled her eyes. "Do I look like a cheerleader? My sister wouldn't wear black unless she was at a funeral," she replied. "And if you ever touch my ass or Ronnie's like that again, I'll break your fucking hand."

The girl moved to walk away. Several football players saw their buddy on the floor and surrounded her. "You guys want your nuts kicked, too? I hope you're wearing cups," she said sharply.

B'Danna reacted as soon as one of them put his hands on the girl. She grabbed him and twisted his arm painfully behind him. "Bad idea," she told him.

"Ouch! Let me go, you crazy bitch!" He shouted.

"Don't you dare call her that," Draze said, moving closer. He restrained another one of them as he went to hit the girl.

The girl kicked the next one who got close to her in the knee, knocking him to the floor. "Assholes..." She mumbled.

Another member of the team approached. He hesitated, taking in the scene. "What's going on?" He asked.

"Just a bunch of freaks trying to mess with us," someone replied.

"Roxy? Are you okay?"

"I'm fine, Lee," the girl replied. "Tell your asshole friends to keep their hands to themselves."

"If you guys keep touching girls inappropriately, you'll all meet my bat intimately," a blonde girl said as she joined them. She swung at one of the boys with a baseball bat to prove a point.

He cried out in pain. "I didn't even do anything, Kaylen!" He protested.

"You were the closest," she replied with a shrug.

"Just fuck off," Roxy told the boys before she walked away.

B'Danna and Draze released the boys they'd restrained and went after her. "Wait up," B'Danna called.

Roxy hesitated. "Thanks," she said. "I guess I owe you guys."

"You're not like the rest of the idiots at this school," B'Danna said.

"Definitely not. My sister's the normal one. I'm Roxy. Roxy Savers. It's nice to meet you, um...?"

"I'm Dave. That's Beatrice Donna," Draze replied.

"That's a mouthful," Roxy said with a laugh.

"Bea's fine," B'Danna replied.

Surprisingly, the three became fast friends. B'Danna and Draze kept Roxy at a bit of a distance, but they were both happy to have one friend who wasn't involved in the Rebellion. Roxy's snarky attitude and sarcastic sense of humor almost made high school tolerable.

Things changed in 1989. They allied themselves with Divatox, a rather annoying woman from the future who the Great Wizard had sent to Tiger's Bluff on a mission. It was during that time that it became clear Jaybert was not thinking rationally. Divatox had recruited Roxy's twin sister, Ronnie, by placing a spell on her. B'Danna didn't like Ronnie, but seeing her turn into a mindless soldier bothered her, and the way Jaybert was looking at his teenage daughter's very close friend seemed inappropriate. As they battled against Power Rangers from the local high school, including Lee and Kaylen, B'Danna could tell things were headed somewhere dangerous.

The night she discovered a vizu in Jaybert's study, B'Danna realized just howbad things were. It would only get worse.

After a vision warned her Jaybert would kill Tiffani, B'Danna went to Laby. Tiffani was annoyingly normal and popular, and she hated the way B'Danna flipped knives for fun almost as much as B'Danna hated the stupid teen magazines she read, but the girl was like a little sister to her. Besides, she understood having a father who couldn't love his daughter. She had to save her.

It seemed like things would be okay. Laby freed Jaybert from the vizu's madness. He stayed close to Tiffani, who he'd clearly fallen in love with. She was safe.

Divatox unsurprisingly failed. Jaybert insisted they abandon her, and she was killed. B'Danna felt a little guilty about that. Draze felt horrible. Whether or not they liked her, she was their ally. What happened next, however, no one saw coming.

The next day, B'Danna heard the sound of crying coming from one of the rooms. Concerned, she opened the door and found Tiffani. She had been beaten up. "Tiffani, what the hell happened?" B'Danna demanded.

"N-nothing," Tiffani stuttered.

B'Danna frowned. Gentler, she asked, "Who did this to you?" She suspected she already knew the answer.

"M... My father..." Tiffani admitted.

"That bastard!" B'Danna said, furious. She remembered the beatings she'd endured as a child. "Come on. I'll bring you to Amareese. She can help."

"I... I stopped him..."

"What do you mean?"

"He tried... He tried to... To rape her... Ronnie..."

Even more rage ran through her. "Did she escape?"

"Yes... But he was pissed..."

B'Danna looked at Tiffani with a new level of respect. "That was brave, Tiffani. You did well. It's over now, okay? Let Amareese heal you. I'll handle Jaybert."

Tiffani nodded. B'Danna practically carried her to Amareese. "What happened?" Amareese asked. She hurried to take Tiffani from B'Danna's arms.

"Jay tried to go too far with Ronnie. Tiffani stopped him," B'Danna explained.

"Oh, my poor, dear girl... Don't you worry one bit. I'll have you fixed up in no time," Amareese said. She looked at B'Danna and asked, "Ronnie?"

"She got away. Take care of her, Ama. I'm going to handle Jay."

"Of course... But please be careful, B'Danna. If he could do this to his own daughter..."

"I have faced far bigger monsters than Jaybert," B'Danna replied. "I'll be fine." She gave Amareese the Rebellion salute before heading back to her room. Once there, B'Danna gathered her sword, a set of daggers, and several guns. After ensuring her hair was pulled back into a ponytail and out of her face and that her weapons were mostly tucked out of sight beneath her clothes, B'Danna headed straight to Jaybert's office. She didn't knock before entering.

"B'Danna? I didn't say you could enter," Jaybert said hastily. He was trying to hide something.

"You are a real son of a bitch, Jaybert," B'Danna told him. She drew her sword from the holster along her spine. "And you'll never touch your daughter or her friend again."

Jaybert raised an eyebrow at that. "You would fight me, B'Danna?" He asked.

"I'd do more than fight you, Jaybert. No one does that on my watch."

He sighed and drew his own sword. "If we must," he said, sounding almost bored. They began to fight with their swords. Jaybert was skilled, but B'Danna was exceptionally good with a sword. He couldn't get an attack in and was forced to defend instead. She was ready to destroy him when something moved quickly in front of her, scurrying out from under his desk and running into the shadows. It was fuzzy.

"You brought it back?!" She asked in horror, knowing it was the vizu. Immediately, B'Danna closed her eyes. She was well-trained enough that she could battle blindfolded, so closing her eyes wouldn't stop her from fighting back.

Jaybert got the upper hand for a moment. He stabbed B'Danna in her side. She bit back a scream of pain and let it fuel her adrenaline, fighting harder. She threw one of her daggers into his leg and heard him scream. Satisfied by that, B'Danna went for the gun. She shot at him, but the vizu jumped in front of him and took the bullet. B'Danna could hear its cries of protest. She continued shooting, emptying the clip. She hoped it would at least slow the creature down and make it flee, but she knew it wouldn't kill it. Nothing killed a vizu. They simply got banished back to their realm on Eltar.

Pulling out another gun, she aimed for the vicinity of where its head should be and blew its fuzzy little face off. Taking a calculated risk, she opened her eyes a crack. Sure enough, she'd hit its face, and its eyes were destroyed. Relief surged through her as she refocused on Jaybert while the vile creature slowly tried to heal itself.

"You'll pay for that!" Jaybert shouted, cradling the vizu protectively in his arms. He began speaking to it soothingly in Eltarian.

"You've lost your mind," B'Danna said. She prepared to shoot him. She'd try a non-lethal shot first. If it was insanity causing this, maybe Laby could still save Jaybert from himself, but B'Danna wouldn't hesitate to kill him if she had to.

"I am doing what I must, B'Danna... A necessary sacrifice for the sake of unimaginable power. You would do the same."

"No, Jaybert. I wouldn't," she said firmly. She fired off a shot. It hit him in the shoulder. It didn't slow him down as he approached her looking homicidal. She aimed for his chest, but Jaybert waved his hand and the gun flew out of her hand.

"What the fuck?" B'Danna asked in confusion.

"I told you, B'Danna... I have more power than I ever have, and I'll keep growing stronger." He raised his sword.

Suddenly, a shot was fired. Jaybert hit the floor. B'Danna looked up in shock. "Draze?" She asked.

Draze held the gun steady on Jaybert as he looked at B'Danna. "Are you okay, B'Danna?" He asked.

"You shot him..."

"He would have killed you. It wasn't a fatal shot, B'Danna. We need to leave this room. We must take Amareese, Flekt, and Tiffani and find Laby. He can help." He offered her his hand. B'Danna let him help her stand, but was able to walk on her own despite losing a decent amount of blood. They hurried from the room, but didn't make it far before Jaybert manifested out of thin air in front of them.

Draze was impaled before B'Danna could even register what had happened. "Draze!" She cried. She ran Jaybert through with her sword immediately, not even stopping to think as her battle instincts kicked in. The wound healed almost instantly and he waved his hand, flinging her against a wall. B'Danna cracked her head on the wall and everything went black.

When she came around, Draze was in bad shape. "I love you, B'Danna," he said weakly.

"Don't you dare quit on me," she replied. "We still have a chance." She dragged Draze into a room and closed the door. She stayed protectively in front of Draze.

As the door opened a short time later, B'Danna flung a dagger through the air. It narrowly missed her target.

"Bee Dee," Laby said with relief.

"Laby!" B'Danna cried with relief of her own. "Jay's lost his fucking shit!"

"I know. Ama..." He shook his head and took a deep breath, trying again. "Amareese told me. Are you two okay?"

"Draze was impaled. He needs a healer... I don't think the sword hit anything vital, but I can't take it out without him bleeding out... I'm fine."

"You're bleeding, Bee Dee... A lot. Help is coming, but I have to find Tiffani. She's still unaccounted for."

"Where's Amareese? I left Tiffani in her care."

Laby bit his bottom lip hard. "Flekt and Amareese are gone," he said softly.

Draze let out a cry of grief. B'Danna's face turned unreadable, the look of a proper soldier, but something inside of her broke.

"Stay with Draze," Laby said. "Raff and Captain Smith are bringing reinforcements. Tedius can heal you guys. Kizzie and Felina can help if needed."

"I can still fight, Laby," B'Danna said. "Let me help you."

"I need you to keep Draze safe. He can't defend himself right now. Besides... I'm not losing you guys," he said.

"He brought the vizu back, Laby. I shot its ugly little face off, but it's still here. I think Jaybert was trying to heal it. You need my help. I am a warrior. I do not sit battles out."

"You're too hurt."

"I will fight to the death if it means protecting the innocent and stopping that bastard!"

"B'Danna of Eltar! You will stay in this room, which I will turn into a labyrinth to keep you safe until help arrives, and you will protect Draze until it is safe. That is an order from a superior officer. Do you understand me?"

B'Danna stared at him in surprise. Laby never really pulled rank on her or anyone else. Finally, she softened. "Just be safe, Laby," she said.

"I'll do my best." He quickly created a protective labyrinth to hide them before he left. All they could do was wait for help to arrive. B'Danna focused on trying to comfort Draze.

Some time later, the barrier of the labyrinth fell. B'Danna protectively stayed in front of Draze. "My God... What has happened here?" Raffitty asked in horror.

"Tedius! They need healing urgently," Captain Smith said. "Kizzie, please assist him. There is no time to waste."

"Straight away, Sir," Kizzie said. She led Tedius closer to B'Danna and Draze.

"Draze first," B'Danna said.

"This will hurt, Luv," Kizzie told Draze apologetically. She pulled the sword out. Tedius immediately began healing him, keeping him from bleeding to death.

"Let me see your wounds, Luv," Kizzie said to B'Danna.

"Not until Draze is-" B'Danna protested.

"Draze will survive, B'Danna," Kizzie promised her. "Please allow me to ensure the same is true for you."

B'Danna sighed, but Draze looked significantly better already, so she finally allowed Kizzie to help her.

"B'Danna, my dear... Where is Laby?" Captain Smith asked.

"He went to find Tiffani, and to stop Jaybert," B'Danna said as she began feeling better.

"Hurry, my friends. We must find them."

Suddenly, Laby walked into the room. His face was blank and his eyes were dazed. "Laby? Luv, you're bleeding!" Kizzie said in horror.

"It's not my blood," Laby said numbly.

"He's in shock," Captain Smith said.

"Laby... What happened?" Raffitty asked gently.

"It's over," Laby said. "It's all over now." He sat beside B'Danna and Draze.

"Laby... Where's Tiffani?" B'Danna asked. She had a horrible feeling.

Laby began crying, to her shock. "No..." Draze whispered in horror. He leaned closer to them both.

"I... I was too late," Laby said softly. "She was too far gone... I could only hold her as she..." He shook his head.

"Laby..." Raffitty said. Then, he sighed.

"We are so very sorry for your loss," Captain Smith added.

"I lost them all... Tiff... Flekt... Amareese..." Laby said.

"Amareese?" Felina asked in horror. Kizzie bowed her head and subtly wiped away a tear. Captain Smith put a comforting hand on Kizzie's shoulder.

"Laby..." Lido knelt beside him, unexpectedly gentle as if talking to a frightened bird. "Where is Jaybert?"

"Dead," Laby responded. "It was the only way."

Lido nodded, then stood again. Raffitty and Captain Smith moved beside Laby. "Take care of B'Danna and Draze for me, Captain Smith," Laby said.

"Of course," Captain Smith replied. "With all that I possess."

"Laby-" B'Danna began. Her heart was breaking and she didn't want to leave him.

"You'll be safe with him, Bee Dee. He's a good man." Laby hugged her. Then, he hugged Draze. "I love you both. Stay safe."

"You are welcome to join us, Laby," Captain Smith said.

"My chapter would also welcome you with open arms," Raffitty added.

"Thank you both... But there is something I have to do... And then, I think I need to be alone," Laby replied.

"You do not need to do this on your own, Laby. We are here for you," Captain Smith said.

"I know... And I appreciate that... But I need time." He held his fist over his heart and bowed to them both before walking away. B'Danna suspected it was the last time she'd see him for a very long time.

They had little choice but to burn the bodies of their fallen friends. B'Danna stood stoically as Draze sobbed. It seemed Laby had taken Tiffani, breaking Rebellion protocol, most likely to bury her. No one protested or reported this to Garron.

Kizzie and Felina stood unified as they respectfully burned Amareese and Flekt. Captain Smith gave a proper eulogy to honor them. When it came time to burn Jaybert, Raffitty approached B'Danna and Draze.

"You should be the ones," he said gently. "It's your right. If it's too difficult, I understand."

"I can't," Draze said with fresh tears in his eyes.

"I'm not really that good with magic, or I'd do it," B'Danna said.

Raffitty pulled out a match and some gasoline. He smiled at her. B'Danna actually laughed. "Perfect," she said. She poured the gasoline over the traitor's corpse before staring at his body and severed head a final time. "Burn in Hell, Jaybert," she said firmly. She lit the match and tossed it onto his corpse. He burned before her eyes.

Draze buried his face in her shoulder, unable to bring himself to watch as the final body was burned. B'Danna held him, soothing him quietly.

"You have done well, B'Danna of Eltar," Captain Smith said gently. He took her aside as Tedius and Rupi took over comforting Draze. "B'Danna... I know this has been difficult for you. I also know that someone raised as both of us were tends to keep emotions in... If you have need of anything, please let me know. Even if you just need a safe place to release your emotions and process what happened here."

She nodded. "I appreciate that, Captain," she replied.

They traveled to New York shortly after. Kizzie led them through the portal. The penthouse they arrived in was breathtaking.

"Welcome home, Luvs," Kizzie said warmly. "Let me know what you need for your rooms. I'll decorate them however you wish."

"Thank you," Draze replied numbly.

That night, B'Danna and Draze chose to sleep in the same room because neither one was ready to be alone. As they lay wrapped in each other's arms, B'Danna shook her head. "I'm worried about Laby," she said. "He shouldn't be alone."

"He needs time, B'Danna," Draze replied sadly. "I know this loss. We have to give him space. He'll find his way back to us eventually."

They fell asleep holding each other. Draze had already processed things by embracing his grief and trauma. B'Danna refused, so it didn't surprise him when she awoke screaming. She didn't know where she was and grabbed the knife under her pillow automatically, ready to fight. Draze wrapped her in a tight hug until she calmed down and remembered what had happened.

Kizzie silently came into the room with tea that allowed B'Danna to sleep without nightmares or any dreams at all. She left them alone instead of calling her out on her pain, which B'Danna appreciated. Kizzie wasn't Amareese, and no one took over the maternal role in their lives, but she became like an older sister to them. It took B'Danna a while to let her in, but Draze accepted her kindness almost immediately and was grateful for the way she and Captain Smith looked after them.

For a long time, everything was better. It took time, but B'Danna slowly let their new Chapter in. Part of her was worried they'd betray them, too, but she soon realized the New York New Jersey Chapter was different. Only Rupi occasionally had questionable behavior, generally when Zydia pushed him to do things her way. Tedius was usually able to keep Rupi on the right side of things.

It wasn't until 2019 that things changed forever. Garron and Zydia had been pushing an attack on the Counsel Building for a very long time. Captain Smith was reluctant to participate, but he saw the need to take down some of the most evil, corrupt people on Eltar and Garron used Raffitty to talk him into it. Zydia also made sure Rupi kept pushing the importance of the mission whenever Captain Smith seemed to reconsider it.

"Draze... You should sit this out," B'Danna said. "It may get very ugly. Captain Smith knows you dislike violence."

Draze turned very serious as he said, "We're in this together, B'Danna... Forever, until the very end."

"I'll be fine-"

"Bea... I'm going with you. It's not negotiable. I am meant to be there."

She knew it was pointless to argue, but she was still worried. B'Danna was used to violence and carnage. Draze was far too gentle for what they were about to do.

The day of the attack, they gathered outside of the Counsel Building. Raffitty's pet human/surrogate son, Neptune, had ended up in New York, so he arrived with their Chapter. Everyone had their assignments. Captain Smith had given his Chapter a strict target list. No one else was to be harmed unless absolutely necessary.

"Carry out your orders with purpose," he said firmly. "Keep it quick and efficient. There is no need to draw out their suffering, even if they deserve it."

"Of course, Captain," B'Danna replied respectfully.

"Karma's a bitch," Zydia said. "And so am I. Sorry, but I don't plan on showing these bastards any mercy."

"I know I cannot control your actions, Zydia. You are a Captain of the Rebellion just as I am. Those instructions are for my people," Captain Smith replied calmly. He turned back to his Chapter. "Go on. We have work to do."

B'Danna and Draze were paired together. They headed toward the office of a very corrupt Senator who was known to target children and young women. B'Danna assassinated him quickly, firing a shot straight into his head while Draze covered her and ensured no one tried to stop her.

They had two more people on their list. They found Mayor Freyst's personal clerk easily enough and quickly executed the man who'd covered up so many of that monster's crimes.

Finally, they headed for a member of the Guard B'Danna knew. He'd been a creep when she was young, but he never tried to touch her because he feared the wrath of Lady Eleanor and Sir Matthew. It was known that he'd molested several young girls, but the one who'd been brave enough to accuse him officially had been executed for treason because she had no evidence.

B'Danna ran her sword through him in a way that killed him as soon as she pulled it back out. She was relieved their part of the attack was over. She led Draze down another corridor. That was when they found the children.

Draze let out a cry of horror and covered his mouth. The children lay in pools of blood, helpless victims of a slaughter the New Yorkers had not agreed to.

"We have to tell Captain Smith," B'Danna said. "He'll never stand for this! Neither would Raff. It must have been Zydia or Garron's idea."

"They were babies, B'Danna... Helpless," Draze said sadly.

"I know. Captain Smith will see to it whoever was responsible is held accountable." She shielded him from the horrifying sight, leading him away as quickly as she could.

B'Danna sensed another presence a second too late. She heard a gun go off and felt something splash across her skin. She reacted without processing what was happening as Draze fell at her feet. B'Danna immediately ran the man who'd fired the shot through with her sword. Only after he bled out did she face the sight in front of her.

"Draze..." She whispered, shaking her head and trying to breathe despite the tightness in her chest.

The bullet had pierced the center of his forehead. What she'd felt had been his blood splashing across her skin as the bullet went straight through his skull. B'Danna stared at her dearest friend in disbelief.

"Draze... Don't do this to me," she whispered. She was shaking as she pulled him into her arms and refused to let him go. "Don't leave me... You can't leave me... Please..."

She heard more gunfire and knew she had to find Captain Smith, but she couldn't make her legs cooperate.

"B'Danna?" Kizzie called gently. "Oh, Luv..." Her voice cracked with emotion.

B'Danna looked up and saw both Kizzie and Felina. Kizzie had started to cry silently. Felina looked sympathetic as she saw Draze in B'Danna's arms.

"I'm sorry," Felina said softly. "How can I help?"

B'Danna wanted to tell her that she couldn't help, but she hesitated. "I suck at magic," she said in an angry tone. Anger was a much easier emotion for her to handle than the enormous grief in her heart. "Can you transport him to the penthouse?"

"Of course," Felina said. She moved closer. B'Danna forced herself to step away from Draze. He vanished moments later.

"Come on, Luv. Let's find Captain Smith," Kizzie said gently. She had stopped crying, but her eyes were still red. She offered her arm to B'Danna.

"I'm fine," B'Danna said, refusing to allow either sorceress to help her walk despite the fact that her legs were violently shaking. She took a deep breath and followed them numbly, trying to focus on anger instead of everything else.

A little while later, the Rebellion members stood together and surveyed the damage they'd caused.

"Where are Rupi and Draze?" Captain Smith asked.

"I have not seen Rupi in a bit, but Draze..." Kizzie shook her head.

"Damn idiot..." B'Danna cursed softly. She fought back tears as she struggled to focus on her rage. How could he be so stupid? Why would he do that for me? She thought.

Captain Smith wrapped his arms protectively around her. She allowed it because it made her feel slightly stronger. "I see," he said. "How?"

"He took a bullet to the head... It was meant for me," B'Danna said numbly.

"And the one who killed him?"

"A member of the Eltarian Guard. I ran him through with my sword immediately."

"You did well, B'Danna. Justice was served for our fallen friend."

Justice? Draze is dead! There will never be justice to make that better, B'Danna thought. The words were impossible to process. How could Draze be dead?

"Rupi!" Tedius cried with obvious relief as the wounded Rebel joined them. He was carrying Zydia.

"Oh my... Zydia..." Garron said.

"She needs a healer, Tedi!" Rupi said.

Knowing Rupi was safe, B'Danna allowed herself to tune everything out. She couldn't get the image of Draze's dead body out of her mind.

I'm sorry, she thought. I'm so sorry.

She functioned on autopilot, following orders and staying silent. Only when they arrived home did it start to set in. For the first time since she was fourteen, B'Danna was alone in the world, and she had no idea what to do with herself.

She knelt beside Draze's body and kissed his forehead. "I love you," she whispered. "Thank you."

Kizzie burned him quickly and his ashes were kept next to the other ones on the mantel.

B'Danna might not know what to do with herself, but she knew one thing. Draze had died to save her life. Somehow, she had to make sure that had not been in vain. She would do something worthy with her life. She would live for the both of them.