Title: Prophecy Part Two-The Calm and the Storm
Author: Meghan Elizabeth
Series: Crossover- TNG/DS9
Part: NEW 1/?
Rating: PG-13
Codes: (TNG) R, T, P, Q (DS9) B, K, Ez
Notes: To mention any relationship codes would give away part of the
story. Also, the only people mentioned in the codes are those that have
significant roles. Other characters from both DS9 and TNG appear in the story
for a shorter length of time.
Disclaimer- Paramount owns all but Victorianna Leonard, Gerard, and
all other people places, ships, etc. not mentioned anywhere in the
Star Trek universe before.
Feedback: Please send all types of feedback
(meghanelizabeth@crosswinds.net)
Summary: The Prophecy isn't over yet and Vicki Ann struggles to
maintain her sanity, with the help of some unexpected friends, as her world comes
crashing down.
Prologue
Dear Vicki Ann,
Jadzia thought that you might be able to help me with a medical
problem I encountered a few months ago and am still working on.
Attached are my notes. Let me know if you have any trouble
deciphering my abbreviations.
Julian
Dear Julian,
It was nice to hear from you. I had no trouble deciphering your notes.
Unfortunately, despite all the information on the Blight that you sent
me, I have no ideas for you. Maybe you should just be content with
the fact that the children will survive, even if their parents don't. I
know that's small consolation, but we can't save everyone. Fate
won't let us. Hope all is well on the station. Say hello to Jadzia.
Love,
Vicki Ann
Dear Vicki Ann,
Thanks for your letter. Your words helped me feel a little better. I'm still working on it,
though. Whenever I have some spare time in the infirmary, I run a few simulations.
Although lately, I haven't had much spare time. Leeta is getting very impatient. I never
have time to spend with her. Odo was ill. I'm sure you heard about it before your visit to
the station. He had trouble maintaining shape and so we took him back to the Founders
and he was exiled for killing a shape- shifter.
They made him human and left him to us. I am definitely getting what I wanted when I
took this assignment: frontier medicine. Sorry for dumping all of my troubles on you. Hope
all is well on the Enterprise.
Julian
Dear Julian,
Sounds like you have been busy. Just make sure that you take some time for yourself. You
won't be any good to anyone, Leeta, Sisko, or your patients, if you're running yourself
ragged. At the risk of sounding like a doctor, make sure you get enough sleep, eat enough,
and take some time, preferably at the end of the day, to relax and forget about the
infirmary. I'm sure Leeta can help with that. Don't worry about your last letter. I don't
mind hearing about your problems. In fact, I like your letters. Not that I'm a sadist and
enjoy listening to other people's misfortune. It's just that except for Jadzia, I don't really
have many people that I correspond with. It's nice. Although, it would be nicer if once in a
while, you had some good news! Love,
Vicki Ann
Dear Vicki Ann,
I'm not having any luck on your suggestion for good news. Besides the trip with Jake I told
you about when you called a few weeks ago, I took a trip to Risa with Leeta, Worf and
Jadzia. Besides, the fiasco with Worf, which I'm sure Jadzia told you about, Leeta decided
to end our relationship. We both wanted different things. She wouldn't mind settling down
and I definitely don't want that. It's funny. Before I came to the station, I was ready for
that. I thought I was anyway. But, now I've decided that having a family would put them
in the unfair position of having to worry about me while I'm on duty. At least if I'm alone, I
only have myself to worry about. Miles says it's worth it, but I don't know. I just wish I
wasn't so unlucky in relationships. Sure, I don't want to get married, but everyone needs
companionship. Everyone needs someone to tell their troubles to, to encourage you when
you need it and love you for who you are. I just wish I could find someone like that. I'm
starting to believe that it only happens in fairy tales.
Julian
Dear Julian,
I'm sorry to hear about you and Leeta. But cheer up, I'm sure there's someone out there
for you, Julian. You just haven't found her yet. Just stay away from Jadzia. A jealous Worf
would not be a pretty sight.
For the moment, take comfort in your friends. They are exactly what you describe. You
tell your troubles to them, they encourage you when you need it and love you for who you
are. We have a saying on Betazed (and I believe Earth has a similar one), "Rich is the man
who has friends." So count your blessings and quit complaining about what you don't have
and start appreciating what you do.
Love,
Vicki Ann
Dear Vicki Ann,
Leave it to you to give my ego the swift kick it needed. I am lucky. I do have a lot of
wonderful friends. Did you also happen to notice that when you were describing qualities
of friends, you were describing yourself? I do appreciate all the encouragement and
support you given me since we started corresponding. Thank you. As for staying away
from Jadzia, you've got a point there. A jealous Worf would not be a pretty sight. Besides,
I've decided to stay away from attached women. Know of any who won't die of boredom
when I ramble about medicine out of nervousness?
Julian
Dear Julian,
You're welcome. And thank you for counting me as a friend. I'm glad you're feeling better.
Although, I don't understand your comment about rambling about medicine when you're
nervous. What have you got to be nervous about? You're attractive, charming, warm,
caring, and brilliant. And I stopped myself before I inflated your ego too much! As for the
rambling about medicine, maybe you should date someone in the field. A doctor
perhaps, so you wouldn't be bored intellectually. And no, I don't know any.
Love,
Vicki Ann
Dear Vicki Ann
If only you weren't attached. You fit the profile perfectly: beautiful, intelligent, charming
and a doctor. By the way, thanks for your vote of confidence. It boosted my ego
tremendously. Although, it annoyed Jadzia. She said I looked 'smug.' And why not? I've got
a wonderful woman like you complementing me. You won't be receiving any letters from me
in a while,I'm going to a burn treatment conference and according to the itinerary, I'm
going to be very busy. Although, if you wish, you can continue to write to me so that I
have something to look forward to when I get back.
Julian
Dear Julian,
I should stop writing to you after that last letter. The last thing I need is you chasing
after me like you did Jadzia. I assume you're back from the burn conference. It's been over
a month and I haven't heard from you, except that day I called and you couldn't talk
because you were very busy in the infirmary. I know how that feels from assisting Beverly
and my work on the Goddard. And by the way, I'm no longer attached. But, don't get any
ideas!
Love,
Vicki Ann
Dear Vicki Ann,
I don't know why I'm writing to you. Maybe I just need to tell someone the hell I've been
through. It all started when I went to the burn treatment conference. I went to bed one
night and woke up in a Jem'Hadar internment camp. General Martok was there, along with
Enbran Tain, as well as a Romulan and a Breen. We were kept in a cell, but were permitted
to roam the compound as long as we didn't try to leave the atmospheric dome. After we
were there for a while, they cut back out rations and I complained. I was placed in solitary
for my trouble.
They put me in a very small cell for five days without water, food or even a threatening
visit. Then, finally they let me out and when I got back to the cell, Worf and Garak were
there. We managed to salvage the life support system transmitter Tain had constructed
and contact the runabout. We managed to escape because the Jem'Hadar had obviously
thought we wouldn't escape and had left the
runabout in orbit. We're on our way back to the station now.
It's kind of hard to believe that for a month and a half, a changeling replaced me and no
one noticed. It's very disconcerting knowing that you're replaceable. Did anyone notice
that he was different? And why not? Perhaps if you and him had been in the same room,
you might have noticed, but it's hard to read someone's mind through letters. I'd better
end this letter now because we're approaching the station. Besides that, I've already
dumped enough of my troubles on you.
Julian
Dear Julian,
I can't answer for anyone else, but I didn't notice because we barely spoke. After a few
weeks, I called the station. I had assumed that you were
busy in the infirmary. Your replacement said a quick hello and rambled something about an
emergency in the infirmary and that he would get back to me later. He never did. I
thought something was wrong, but I didn't have time to ask him. You're letter explained
why he was in such a hurry to say goodbye. He would have known that I would have know
who he was and wouldn't dare risk being exposed.
I'm very touched that you chose to share your experiences with me. You are a very strong
person, Julian and I'm glad to have you as my friend. If you ever feel like talking, let me
know.
Love,
Vicki Ann
Dear Vicki Ann,
This will probably be your last letter from me. I'm assuming Jadzia told you about the
incident with Dr. Zimmerman. It's fine for people like her and Miles to accept what I am,
but for a doctor, it's impossible. You know the consequences of genetic engineering. I
understand if you don't wish to continue our correspondence. I wish you well in all your
endeavors.
Julian
Dear Julian,
You have to be either incredibly stupid or incredibly naive to think that I would end our
friendship based on the fact that you're genetically engineered. And since your intelligence
is practically genius, I think it must be that latter. Because of your engineering, you have
made yourself believe that you're not worthy of genuine love, whether it be love of friends
or romance. That's probably why you get nervous around women. You didn't choose to be
engineered, so why should I hold it against you? Besides, I'm not friends with you because
you can score a bull's eye three time in a row or because you were second your class. I'm
your friend because you're a wonderful person; caring, warm, generous, charming, funny,
and loyal. (I'm repeating myself on some of this). I seriously hope you can believe that and
will continue to write me.
Love (Always),
Vicki Ann
Dear Vicki Ann,
You don't know how happy I was to receive your letter. You also don't know how right you
were. I am truly blessed to have you as a friend. Jadzia was telling the truth in all her
praise of you. I apologize for sounding so sentimental, but almost losing everything really
puts things into perspective. As you suggested once before, I'm counting my blessings.
The next time you're in the area, stop by the station. I'd love to see you again and I'm
sure Jadzia would too.
Love,
Julian
Dear Julian,
I'd love to stop by and see you and Jadzia. It's just a matter of finding the time. Things
are crazy here. They just keep sending us on diplomatic mission after diplomatic mission.
I'm getting lots of flying time at least.Although, I am starting to miss medicine. I think part
of the reason I turned to flying was to disconnect myself from Gerard. After all, medicine
was a major part of my life when I was with him. I used it to cover up what he did to me.
After a while, medicine started to remind me of him, which,of course, I did not want. But,
now that I've dealt with my past, I think I'm ready to go back to medicine. Permanently.
Besides, hearing all the stories about your amazing medical feats would make anyone want
to be a doctor. I think you're renewing my enthusiasm. It's time for my bridge shift. Tell
Jadzia and Worf hello.
Love Always,
Vicki Ann
Dear Vicki Ann,
I haven't heard from you in a while. I assumed that you were busy, but Jadzia and I are
starting to get worried. She hasn't heard from you either. Please write when you get the
chance and let us know that everything is alright.
Love,
Julian
Dear Vicki Ann,
Thanks for contacting Jadzia and I and telling us about the situation with Q. I can
understand why you've been out of touch. Having a psychotic omnipotent being trying to
kill you and Q would be enough to keep you busy. Are you coming to the wedding? Jadzia
would love to see you and so would I.
Love,
Julian
Dear Julian,
I wish I could come to the wedding, but Starfleet is sending me to a medical conference.
I'm absolutely thrilled. (Can you hear the sarcasm?) I'm sending a gift and a message to
Jadzia. Please give Jadzia a hug and a kiss (on the cheek!) for me and give her my love. If
you feel awkward about it, you can do the same to Worf too, if you want.
Love Always,
Vicki Ann
Dear Vicki Ann,
I passed up the offer to give Worf a hug and a kiss (he would have thrown me through the
bulkhead), but I did tell him hello. I also took some pictures for you. They're attached,
along with a video. If you've never seen a Klingon wedding, you're in for a surprise. But,
you really haven't experienced a Klingon ceremony until you've participated in a Klingon
'bachelor party.' Just think about it. Lot's of blood, fasting, and of course, PAIN! Little did
Miles and I know what we were getting ourselves into.
As for the ceremony, it is indescribable. You have to watch the video to see what I mean.
By the way, Jadzia loved the gift. Although, Worf didn't seem too amused. A dermal
regenerator. I wish I'd thought of it. She and Worf send their thanks. I guess it's the
thought that counts. How was the conference? I hope you weren't bored to death. Hope
all is well on the Enterprise.
Love,
Julian
Dear Julian,
Thanks for your letter, the video and pictures of the wedding. That was very sweet of
you. The 'bachelor party' sounded fun. By the way, I loved the part where you and the
Chief attacked Worf. Very interesting. The wedding itself was interesting as well. Jadzia
looked beautiful, although, I won't be using the same outfit for my wedding. The
conference was boring, but I got through it. Things are normal on the Enterprise. We've
been mostly doing supply runs. So far, nothing remotely near the front lines. Although I
don't know why. We're the flagship, after all. Not that I want to fight, you understand. I
guess I should be quiet and count my blessings, like I tell you, huh? Hope all is well on the
station.
Love Always,
Vicki Ann
Dear Vicki Ann,
Wouldn't you attack Worf after that 'bachelor party?' And what was wrong with Jadzia's
wedding dress? I'm just kidding. I assume you heard about the incident with the
genetically engineered group from the Institute. Sometimes, my intelligence flies out the
window and I let my feelings about people judge my actions. I did that with them. They
were wrong and I took everything they said as fact. No prediction can ever be right
because the future changes everyday. I hate this war. It's not about anything but
protecting our home. I'd like it to mean more, but it doesn't. And I'm scared out of my
mind. Scared
for myself, for my patients, for my friends, for anyone who comes in contact with the
Dominion's wrath. But, as you said, we should count our blessings. While we can.
Love,
Julian
Dear Julian,
I'm coming to the station. Deanna suggested I take some time off to deal with Jadzia's
death. Unfortunately, I had to wait until we were nearby. I'm catching a ride from Earth. I
should arrive in a few days.
Love Always,
Vicki Ann
Chapter 1
Riker stood in the shuttle bay, waiting for Vicki Ann to come out of the shuttle. The door
opened and she stepped out with all of her luggage. She
smiled when she saw him. He took some of her luggage. "Welcome back, Doc,"
he told her. He kissed her, but she pulled away quickly. "I have to speak to the captain.
It's kind of important."
He straightened up, acting unaffected by her distant behavior. "Sure, let's
go."
Vicki Ann emerged from the captain's ready room. Riker looked up at her questioningly. She
didn't see his expression or she chose to ignore it because she turned toward the captain.
"Oh, I forgot to ask you captain, how
did you like my nephew?"
Picard looked at her, confused. "Nephew?"
"Little q. Q and Q made me an honorary aunt."
Picard nodded and frowned. "He's just like his father."
Vicki Ann laughed. "That's what I said!"
Riker came up behind her. "When did you see Q?"
"He came to the lecture. He found it rather amusing. We talked for a while
and he told me everything that happened with Q. We had a long talk in general before he
left. He apologized for missing Admiral Thompson's preliminary speech on the Q. He said he
had been dealing with Continuum matters."
Picard nodded. "Warning us about the barrier."
Vicki Ann turned back to Picard. "I have some unpacking to do, captain, so
if you don't wish me to stay. . ."
Picard nodded. "Yes, your leave is officially over tomorrow. Go ahead."
Vicki Ann turned and left.
Riker, obviously confused, sat back down at his post.
Vicki Ann sat down on her bed. She glanced at her night stand and her eyes
rested on the picture of her and Riker at the party after the trial. She
felt tears coming to her eyes, but she knew that it had to be done. Riker
didn't really love her and she couldn't let either of them live a lie. She
wished Q had told her this would happen, but he wasn't allowed to divulge
the secrets of the universe to mere mortals. She held the picture close to
her heart and fell back onto the bed and cried.
Riker rang the chime for Vicki Ann's quarters. She had been avoiding him
all day and he wanted to know why. He rang the chime five times. "Computer, where is Dr.
Troi?"
"Dr. Troi is in her quarters."
She must have known it was him. Riker used his authorization code to enter.
"Vicki Ann, where are you? I want to know what's going on. Why are you avoiding me?"
"Coming," her sweet voice called from the bedroom. She sounded normal.
She
must have been trying very hard to sound normal because when she entered the
room, Riker could tell she had been crying. "What's up?"
He walked over to her and ran his fingers through her hair. "What's wrong?"
She pulled away from him. "We need to talk." She sat down on the couch.
"About us."
He sat down next to her, but she moved away a little. "Why? What happened
in San Francisco? Did Q say something to you?"
She shook her head. "We talked, that's all. He helped me figure some things out though. I
did a lot of thinking in San Francisco." She took a
deep breath, trying to gather all the strength she could. "I can't let you
do this."
"Do what?"
"This. Us. I can't let you lie to yourself."
"What am I lying to myself about?"
"Your feelings about me."
"What are you talking about? I love you, Vicki Ann."
"Just listen to me, Will. This relationship has been nothing more than a
replacement for Deanna."
"Deanna?"
"Yes, Deanna. I understand now that you love her and can never be happy with someone
else, no matter how much you try to convince yourself."
"I told you, I fell in love with you, not an image of Deanna. You're different from her."
"You got involved with me because I'm Deanna's sister and that gave you a
tie to her. You rationalized it by lying to yourself and saying that you
loved me for me, not because I reminded you of Deanna. But I did remind you
of Deanna. I can't let either of us continue this lie. It's not fair to
you and it's not fair to me. If we weren't involved, you could rekindle your relationship with
Deanna. And it's not fair for me to be in a relationship where I'm not really loved. I've had
enough experience with
that already. Please, let's just end it now before it goes to far."
Riker nodded slowly. "I'm sorry, Vicki Ann, I never meant to hurt you."
"I know."
He kissed her on the forehead and whispered, "Thank you for helping me figure all of this
out."
She nodded.
"Are you all right?"
"I'm fine. I just need some time alone."
Riker nodded. "I'll see you tomorrow on the bridge."
It had been a week since their talk and Vicki Ann and Riker hadn't spoken to
each other, except for normal bridge orders. Riker had sensed that she'd
needed some time to work out her feelings and get used to the possibility of
Riker and Deanna. He hadn't told Deanna and he didn't think Vicki Ann had
told her either. He had told everyone that it just wasn't meant to be and
ending it at that. He was now sitting at a table in the corner of Ten-Forward, sipping a
drink and trying to determine the next course of action. The doors opened and a woman
entered. She walked over to him, smiling. She sat down across from him and said, "Hello,
Commander."'
He grinned at her. "Hello, Doc. Is everything all right between us or are
you going to place some Betazoid curse on me?"
"You should know better. I don't use curses. If I want something bad to
happen to someone, I do it myself," she replied, her eyes twinkling. She
turned serious. "No, everything's fine. We're still friends. It's hard to
stay mad at someone if you can read their mind."
"I'm glad," he replied.
"So," she asked him. "What are you doing about Deanna?"
"What do you mean?"
"How are you going to win her back?"
Riker shook his head. "You don't know how much I wish you weren't empathic
or telepathic."
"Yes, I do."
Beverly Crusher glanced at the door when she heard it open. She gasped when
she saw who had entered. Vicki Ann was standing there, wincing in pain and
cradling a broken arm. Beverly motioned for Vicki Ann to come over to her.
"What happened?"
Vicki Ann made a face. "I tried Worf's calisthenics program."
"Vicki Ann!" Beverly scolded as she fixed Vicki Ann's arm.
"I know."
"That isn't like you. Is there anything going on?"
"No."
"Vicki Ann, you're lying to me."
"Beverly!"
"I'm serious. What's going on?"
"Nothing." She glanced at the door, which had just opened.. Commander Riker entered. He
waved to her and she replied with a smile and a wave.
As
soon as he was out of her sight, the smile faded.
Beverly noticed this. "What happened?"
"What do you mean 'what happened?' What makes you think anything happened?"
"Ever since you and Will started seeing each other, you both have been all
smiles. For the past week, you both have been all frowns. And just now,
you faked a smile."
"I did not!"
"You're lying to me and to yourself, Vicki Ann. What happened?"
"Can we go in your office.? I don't want to talk in front of all these people. Actually, I
don't want to talk about it at all, but I know you won't rest until I tell you everything."
"You got it. Come on." As they walked to Beverly's office, Beverly said to
Nurse Ogawa, "Alyssa, if anyone needs me, I'll be in my office."
They walked into Beverly's office and Vicki Ann sat down across from Beverly.
Beverly looked at Vicki Ann. "Well?"
"You do understand I am doing this under duress? If they ask you later if I
came to you willingly, you will say you forced me to confess, right?"
"Confess? What did you do, murder someone?"
"No, but I did do something almost as bad. Okay, let me start from the beginning. After my
lecture in San Francisco, I had gone back to my apartment. I had gotten a subspace from
Will, saying hello. I was going to
respond when Q and his. . . . family showed up. After a while, Q's wife got
bored and left with little q. Q and I talked. Mostly just general stuff.
Catching up. Why he settled down. How things were going with Will. Anyway, I told him
that I had received a subspace from Will. I sensed something weird from Q and I asked him
about it. He reminded me of how Will
had gone after Deanna while she was with Worf. That got me thinking. I finally realized
that the only reason Will was with me was because of Deanna. I reminded him of her.
Even if it was slight, it was enough. He loves her, Beverly, and he could
never love anyone else. He can lie to himself and convince himself so absolutely that he
would pass a polygraph test, but he wouldn't really.
He
did that with me. He convinced himself that he loved me for me and not because I was
Deanna's sister, but he didn't. At first when I told Will, he
denied it. Then, eventually, he admitted that he had done it without realizing it. The best
thing for us to do was break up."
"Wow. How do you feel about this?"
"I'm okay with it. I probably knew all along, but didn't want to admit it."
Beverly eyed her. "Okay, Vicki Ann. I know you probably told Will that you're okay with it,
but how do you really feel?"
Vicki Ann stood up and paced. "How do I feel? I told you, it's okay. I
understand why he did it. I can't hold that against him."
"Vicki Ann."
"What?"
"Stop lying to yourself."
Vicki Ann turned away from Beverly. She didn't want Beverly to see her tears. "I'm not
lying to myself." Her voice was shaking. "RaBeem."
"What?"
"It's a Betazoid word. It means 'I understand.' It's one of our main beliefs."
"Oh. Why did you bring it up?"
"Because it applies here."
"Does it?"
"Do you know what, Beverly? I'm tired of understanding! It's all I've ever
done. When someone does something bad to me, I defend them. I say 'I understand why
you did it.' I let people walk all over me and I don't do
anything about it. I just say 'I understand.' Well, I don't! I don't understand how he could
do something like that and not know it!"
"How do you feel about it?" Beverly asked, sounding like a psychologist.
"I'm angry! I'm angry at him and worst of all, I'm angry at her! She strung him along all
these years instead of ending it. Even when she was
engaged to Worf, Will still hoped that he and Deanna would get back together. And what
happens if they don't? He'll have wasted his entire life waiting for someone who was never
coming back to him."
"I can see why you're angry."
"I'm not supposed to, though. I'm supposed to understand."
"Betazoids are supposed to understand, but you're human, too."
Vicki Ann nodded. Her comm badge beeped. "Dr. Troi here."
"Dr. Troi, there is a subspace message coming in for you from a Dr. Bashir," Lt. Stirland
told Vicki Ann.
"I'll take it in my quarters."
"He says it's urgent."
Vicki Ann turned to Beverly. "Do you mind?"
Beverly shook her head. "No." She got up from the desk and went out into
the other room.
"Patch it through to Dr. Crusher's office." Vicki Ann sat down at Beverly's desk and Julian
Bashir's face popped up on the viewer. Vicki Ann
smiled. "Hello, Julian."
Julian's face was grim. "They wanted to send you a standard message, but I
thought it would be better if I told you."
Vicki Ann swallowed. "Told me what?"
"While Captain Sisko was away on the Defiant, he left Jadzia in charge of
the station. A Cardassian broke into the shrine where she was and attacked
her."
Vicki Ann gasped and covered her mouth.
Julian continued, "We managed to save the symbiont. But we couldn't do anything about
Jadzia."
Tears welling up in her eyes, she whispered, "No."
"I tried everything. Nothing could be done."
Vicki Ann snapped out of it. "It wasn't your fault, Julian. When did this
happen?"
"While you were at the conference. I wasn't sure how to reach you-"
"It's alright. I'm not sure I would have found time for a message. I probably wouldn't have
read it until now anyway. How is Worf doing?"
"Not well. No one is, of course, but he's the worst, obviously. For the
moment, he's putting all his energy into the war with the Dominion, but I'm
sure he'll be fine. He's Klingon; he's strong."
Vicki Ann nodded. "That he is. Thank you for telling me, Julian. That was
very thoughtful."
He smiled. "You're welcome."
"Tell Worf hello. I'll stop by and visit on my way home next month."
"I'll tell him. Goodbye, Vicki Ann."
"Goodbye, Julian." The viewer blinked off. The tears that Vicki Ann had he
ld back for most of the conversation, rolled down her cheeks at warp speed.
Beverly walked in. "Vicki Ann, are you finished? I need to- What happened?"
Vicki Ann just shook her head and ran past Beverly. She continued down the
hall. She ran right into Riker, who was coming back to sickbay. "Vicki Ann, what's wrong?"
"Get away from me!" she screamed, pushing past him and down the hall.
Beverly walked out into the hall.
"What happened?" Riker asked her.
Beverly shook her head. "I don't know. I don't know anything."
Vicki Ann sat in the corner of Ten-Forward, sipping some synthehol. She wanted to forget
who she was, where she was, and everything else. Especially about Riker and Deanna and
especially about Jadzia. Just like
Julian had said, it wasn't fair. Jadzia was such a nice person. She hadn't
known Vicki Ann long when they spoke at the same Academy graduation. Jadzia
had found out that it was Vicki Ann's birthday and had arranged a quick surprise party.
They had become fast friends. True, they hadn't seen each
other much, but they had kept in touch. Unfortunately, Vicki Ann had been
unable to get away to attend the wedding, but she'd sent a gift and a personal message
to Jadzia. And now she couldn't get away to go to the funeral. She'd just gotten back.
She let the synthehol go to her head. She felt her spirits lift. She smiled and glanced out
the window.
Riker and Deanna walked into Ten-Forward. Riker had told Deanna that he and
Vicki Ann had broken up, but not why. Deanna noticed Vicki Ann sitting in
the corner.
"Come on, let's go see what's wrong," Deanna told him. They walked over and
Riker sat down across from Vicki Ann. Deanna said, "I'm getting a drink."
"What's wrong, Vicki Ann?" Riker asked her.
"Everything," she replied.
"Is this about us?"
"Yes and no."
"What do you mean?"
"I mean that you aren't the only thing on my mind," she snapped.
Riker seemed taken back.
She continued, "My world doesn't revolve around you."
Riker had never heard her sound this angry. "I never said-."
"You didn't say it, but you think it. You think the entire universe revolves around you,
William T. Riker. See that's what happens when you date a telepath;
they
know what you're thinking."
"Then what is it?"
"What do you care? All you care about is Deanna. Your entire world revolves around her.
And you don't care who you hurt trying to get her back."
"Vicki Ann-," he said, reaching to put his hand on her arm.
"Leave me alone!"
"But I'm your friend and I want to help you."
"You are not my friend! Friends don't hurt each other. Friends don't use
each other like you did. You want to know someone who was a friend? Jadzia
Dax," she screamed, but she whispered Jadzia's name. "And she's dead! And
I'm all alone. So why don't you go back to your precious Deanna and leave
me alone! It's the way I am and it's the way I want to be."
Deanna had just reached the table. She now stared at her sister in disbelief. The
counselor kicked in and she put her hand on Vicki Ann's arm
and said, "I'm sorry about Jadzia."
Vicki Ann shook Deanna's arm off. "You want him? He's yours!" she snapped.
She turned and stormed out of Ten-Forward.
Deanna sat down at the table. "What was that all about?"
Riker shook his head.
Author: Meghan Elizabeth
Series: Crossover- TNG/DS9
Part: NEW 1/?
Rating: PG-13
Codes: (TNG) R, T, P, Q (DS9) B, K, Ez
Notes: To mention any relationship codes would give away part of the
story. Also, the only people mentioned in the codes are those that have
significant roles. Other characters from both DS9 and TNG appear in the story
for a shorter length of time.
Disclaimer- Paramount owns all but Victorianna Leonard, Gerard, and
all other people places, ships, etc. not mentioned anywhere in the
Star Trek universe before.
Feedback: Please send all types of feedback
(meghanelizabeth@crosswinds.net)
Summary: The Prophecy isn't over yet and Vicki Ann struggles to
maintain her sanity, with the help of some unexpected friends, as her world comes
crashing down.
Prologue
Dear Vicki Ann,
Jadzia thought that you might be able to help me with a medical
problem I encountered a few months ago and am still working on.
Attached are my notes. Let me know if you have any trouble
deciphering my abbreviations.
Julian
Dear Julian,
It was nice to hear from you. I had no trouble deciphering your notes.
Unfortunately, despite all the information on the Blight that you sent
me, I have no ideas for you. Maybe you should just be content with
the fact that the children will survive, even if their parents don't. I
know that's small consolation, but we can't save everyone. Fate
won't let us. Hope all is well on the station. Say hello to Jadzia.
Love,
Vicki Ann
Dear Vicki Ann,
Thanks for your letter. Your words helped me feel a little better. I'm still working on it,
though. Whenever I have some spare time in the infirmary, I run a few simulations.
Although lately, I haven't had much spare time. Leeta is getting very impatient. I never
have time to spend with her. Odo was ill. I'm sure you heard about it before your visit to
the station. He had trouble maintaining shape and so we took him back to the Founders
and he was exiled for killing a shape- shifter.
They made him human and left him to us. I am definitely getting what I wanted when I
took this assignment: frontier medicine. Sorry for dumping all of my troubles on you. Hope
all is well on the Enterprise.
Julian
Dear Julian,
Sounds like you have been busy. Just make sure that you take some time for yourself. You
won't be any good to anyone, Leeta, Sisko, or your patients, if you're running yourself
ragged. At the risk of sounding like a doctor, make sure you get enough sleep, eat enough,
and take some time, preferably at the end of the day, to relax and forget about the
infirmary. I'm sure Leeta can help with that. Don't worry about your last letter. I don't
mind hearing about your problems. In fact, I like your letters. Not that I'm a sadist and
enjoy listening to other people's misfortune. It's just that except for Jadzia, I don't really
have many people that I correspond with. It's nice. Although, it would be nicer if once in a
while, you had some good news! Love,
Vicki Ann
Dear Vicki Ann,
I'm not having any luck on your suggestion for good news. Besides the trip with Jake I told
you about when you called a few weeks ago, I took a trip to Risa with Leeta, Worf and
Jadzia. Besides, the fiasco with Worf, which I'm sure Jadzia told you about, Leeta decided
to end our relationship. We both wanted different things. She wouldn't mind settling down
and I definitely don't want that. It's funny. Before I came to the station, I was ready for
that. I thought I was anyway. But, now I've decided that having a family would put them
in the unfair position of having to worry about me while I'm on duty. At least if I'm alone, I
only have myself to worry about. Miles says it's worth it, but I don't know. I just wish I
wasn't so unlucky in relationships. Sure, I don't want to get married, but everyone needs
companionship. Everyone needs someone to tell their troubles to, to encourage you when
you need it and love you for who you are. I just wish I could find someone like that. I'm
starting to believe that it only happens in fairy tales.
Julian
Dear Julian,
I'm sorry to hear about you and Leeta. But cheer up, I'm sure there's someone out there
for you, Julian. You just haven't found her yet. Just stay away from Jadzia. A jealous Worf
would not be a pretty sight.
For the moment, take comfort in your friends. They are exactly what you describe. You
tell your troubles to them, they encourage you when you need it and love you for who you
are. We have a saying on Betazed (and I believe Earth has a similar one), "Rich is the man
who has friends." So count your blessings and quit complaining about what you don't have
and start appreciating what you do.
Love,
Vicki Ann
Dear Vicki Ann,
Leave it to you to give my ego the swift kick it needed. I am lucky. I do have a lot of
wonderful friends. Did you also happen to notice that when you were describing qualities
of friends, you were describing yourself? I do appreciate all the encouragement and
support you given me since we started corresponding. Thank you. As for staying away
from Jadzia, you've got a point there. A jealous Worf would not be a pretty sight. Besides,
I've decided to stay away from attached women. Know of any who won't die of boredom
when I ramble about medicine out of nervousness?
Julian
Dear Julian,
You're welcome. And thank you for counting me as a friend. I'm glad you're feeling better.
Although, I don't understand your comment about rambling about medicine when you're
nervous. What have you got to be nervous about? You're attractive, charming, warm,
caring, and brilliant. And I stopped myself before I inflated your ego too much! As for the
rambling about medicine, maybe you should date someone in the field. A doctor
perhaps, so you wouldn't be bored intellectually. And no, I don't know any.
Love,
Vicki Ann
Dear Vicki Ann
If only you weren't attached. You fit the profile perfectly: beautiful, intelligent, charming
and a doctor. By the way, thanks for your vote of confidence. It boosted my ego
tremendously. Although, it annoyed Jadzia. She said I looked 'smug.' And why not? I've got
a wonderful woman like you complementing me. You won't be receiving any letters from me
in a while,I'm going to a burn treatment conference and according to the itinerary, I'm
going to be very busy. Although, if you wish, you can continue to write to me so that I
have something to look forward to when I get back.
Julian
Dear Julian,
I should stop writing to you after that last letter. The last thing I need is you chasing
after me like you did Jadzia. I assume you're back from the burn conference. It's been over
a month and I haven't heard from you, except that day I called and you couldn't talk
because you were very busy in the infirmary. I know how that feels from assisting Beverly
and my work on the Goddard. And by the way, I'm no longer attached. But, don't get any
ideas!
Love,
Vicki Ann
Dear Vicki Ann,
I don't know why I'm writing to you. Maybe I just need to tell someone the hell I've been
through. It all started when I went to the burn treatment conference. I went to bed one
night and woke up in a Jem'Hadar internment camp. General Martok was there, along with
Enbran Tain, as well as a Romulan and a Breen. We were kept in a cell, but were permitted
to roam the compound as long as we didn't try to leave the atmospheric dome. After we
were there for a while, they cut back out rations and I complained. I was placed in solitary
for my trouble.
They put me in a very small cell for five days without water, food or even a threatening
visit. Then, finally they let me out and when I got back to the cell, Worf and Garak were
there. We managed to salvage the life support system transmitter Tain had constructed
and contact the runabout. We managed to escape because the Jem'Hadar had obviously
thought we wouldn't escape and had left the
runabout in orbit. We're on our way back to the station now.
It's kind of hard to believe that for a month and a half, a changeling replaced me and no
one noticed. It's very disconcerting knowing that you're replaceable. Did anyone notice
that he was different? And why not? Perhaps if you and him had been in the same room,
you might have noticed, but it's hard to read someone's mind through letters. I'd better
end this letter now because we're approaching the station. Besides that, I've already
dumped enough of my troubles on you.
Julian
Dear Julian,
I can't answer for anyone else, but I didn't notice because we barely spoke. After a few
weeks, I called the station. I had assumed that you were
busy in the infirmary. Your replacement said a quick hello and rambled something about an
emergency in the infirmary and that he would get back to me later. He never did. I
thought something was wrong, but I didn't have time to ask him. You're letter explained
why he was in such a hurry to say goodbye. He would have known that I would have know
who he was and wouldn't dare risk being exposed.
I'm very touched that you chose to share your experiences with me. You are a very strong
person, Julian and I'm glad to have you as my friend. If you ever feel like talking, let me
know.
Love,
Vicki Ann
Dear Vicki Ann,
This will probably be your last letter from me. I'm assuming Jadzia told you about the
incident with Dr. Zimmerman. It's fine for people like her and Miles to accept what I am,
but for a doctor, it's impossible. You know the consequences of genetic engineering. I
understand if you don't wish to continue our correspondence. I wish you well in all your
endeavors.
Julian
Dear Julian,
You have to be either incredibly stupid or incredibly naive to think that I would end our
friendship based on the fact that you're genetically engineered. And since your intelligence
is practically genius, I think it must be that latter. Because of your engineering, you have
made yourself believe that you're not worthy of genuine love, whether it be love of friends
or romance. That's probably why you get nervous around women. You didn't choose to be
engineered, so why should I hold it against you? Besides, I'm not friends with you because
you can score a bull's eye three time in a row or because you were second your class. I'm
your friend because you're a wonderful person; caring, warm, generous, charming, funny,
and loyal. (I'm repeating myself on some of this). I seriously hope you can believe that and
will continue to write me.
Love (Always),
Vicki Ann
Dear Vicki Ann,
You don't know how happy I was to receive your letter. You also don't know how right you
were. I am truly blessed to have you as a friend. Jadzia was telling the truth in all her
praise of you. I apologize for sounding so sentimental, but almost losing everything really
puts things into perspective. As you suggested once before, I'm counting my blessings.
The next time you're in the area, stop by the station. I'd love to see you again and I'm
sure Jadzia would too.
Love,
Julian
Dear Julian,
I'd love to stop by and see you and Jadzia. It's just a matter of finding the time. Things
are crazy here. They just keep sending us on diplomatic mission after diplomatic mission.
I'm getting lots of flying time at least.Although, I am starting to miss medicine. I think part
of the reason I turned to flying was to disconnect myself from Gerard. After all, medicine
was a major part of my life when I was with him. I used it to cover up what he did to me.
After a while, medicine started to remind me of him, which,of course, I did not want. But,
now that I've dealt with my past, I think I'm ready to go back to medicine. Permanently.
Besides, hearing all the stories about your amazing medical feats would make anyone want
to be a doctor. I think you're renewing my enthusiasm. It's time for my bridge shift. Tell
Jadzia and Worf hello.
Love Always,
Vicki Ann
Dear Vicki Ann,
I haven't heard from you in a while. I assumed that you were busy, but Jadzia and I are
starting to get worried. She hasn't heard from you either. Please write when you get the
chance and let us know that everything is alright.
Love,
Julian
Dear Vicki Ann,
Thanks for contacting Jadzia and I and telling us about the situation with Q. I can
understand why you've been out of touch. Having a psychotic omnipotent being trying to
kill you and Q would be enough to keep you busy. Are you coming to the wedding? Jadzia
would love to see you and so would I.
Love,
Julian
Dear Julian,
I wish I could come to the wedding, but Starfleet is sending me to a medical conference.
I'm absolutely thrilled. (Can you hear the sarcasm?) I'm sending a gift and a message to
Jadzia. Please give Jadzia a hug and a kiss (on the cheek!) for me and give her my love. If
you feel awkward about it, you can do the same to Worf too, if you want.
Love Always,
Vicki Ann
Dear Vicki Ann,
I passed up the offer to give Worf a hug and a kiss (he would have thrown me through the
bulkhead), but I did tell him hello. I also took some pictures for you. They're attached,
along with a video. If you've never seen a Klingon wedding, you're in for a surprise. But,
you really haven't experienced a Klingon ceremony until you've participated in a Klingon
'bachelor party.' Just think about it. Lot's of blood, fasting, and of course, PAIN! Little did
Miles and I know what we were getting ourselves into.
As for the ceremony, it is indescribable. You have to watch the video to see what I mean.
By the way, Jadzia loved the gift. Although, Worf didn't seem too amused. A dermal
regenerator. I wish I'd thought of it. She and Worf send their thanks. I guess it's the
thought that counts. How was the conference? I hope you weren't bored to death. Hope
all is well on the Enterprise.
Love,
Julian
Dear Julian,
Thanks for your letter, the video and pictures of the wedding. That was very sweet of
you. The 'bachelor party' sounded fun. By the way, I loved the part where you and the
Chief attacked Worf. Very interesting. The wedding itself was interesting as well. Jadzia
looked beautiful, although, I won't be using the same outfit for my wedding. The
conference was boring, but I got through it. Things are normal on the Enterprise. We've
been mostly doing supply runs. So far, nothing remotely near the front lines. Although I
don't know why. We're the flagship, after all. Not that I want to fight, you understand. I
guess I should be quiet and count my blessings, like I tell you, huh? Hope all is well on the
station.
Love Always,
Vicki Ann
Dear Vicki Ann,
Wouldn't you attack Worf after that 'bachelor party?' And what was wrong with Jadzia's
wedding dress? I'm just kidding. I assume you heard about the incident with the
genetically engineered group from the Institute. Sometimes, my intelligence flies out the
window and I let my feelings about people judge my actions. I did that with them. They
were wrong and I took everything they said as fact. No prediction can ever be right
because the future changes everyday. I hate this war. It's not about anything but
protecting our home. I'd like it to mean more, but it doesn't. And I'm scared out of my
mind. Scared
for myself, for my patients, for my friends, for anyone who comes in contact with the
Dominion's wrath. But, as you said, we should count our blessings. While we can.
Love,
Julian
Dear Julian,
I'm coming to the station. Deanna suggested I take some time off to deal with Jadzia's
death. Unfortunately, I had to wait until we were nearby. I'm catching a ride from Earth. I
should arrive in a few days.
Love Always,
Vicki Ann
Chapter 1
Riker stood in the shuttle bay, waiting for Vicki Ann to come out of the shuttle. The door
opened and she stepped out with all of her luggage. She
smiled when she saw him. He took some of her luggage. "Welcome back, Doc,"
he told her. He kissed her, but she pulled away quickly. "I have to speak to the captain.
It's kind of important."
He straightened up, acting unaffected by her distant behavior. "Sure, let's
go."
Vicki Ann emerged from the captain's ready room. Riker looked up at her questioningly. She
didn't see his expression or she chose to ignore it because she turned toward the captain.
"Oh, I forgot to ask you captain, how
did you like my nephew?"
Picard looked at her, confused. "Nephew?"
"Little q. Q and Q made me an honorary aunt."
Picard nodded and frowned. "He's just like his father."
Vicki Ann laughed. "That's what I said!"
Riker came up behind her. "When did you see Q?"
"He came to the lecture. He found it rather amusing. We talked for a while
and he told me everything that happened with Q. We had a long talk in general before he
left. He apologized for missing Admiral Thompson's preliminary speech on the Q. He said he
had been dealing with Continuum matters."
Picard nodded. "Warning us about the barrier."
Vicki Ann turned back to Picard. "I have some unpacking to do, captain, so
if you don't wish me to stay. . ."
Picard nodded. "Yes, your leave is officially over tomorrow. Go ahead."
Vicki Ann turned and left.
Riker, obviously confused, sat back down at his post.
Vicki Ann sat down on her bed. She glanced at her night stand and her eyes
rested on the picture of her and Riker at the party after the trial. She
felt tears coming to her eyes, but she knew that it had to be done. Riker
didn't really love her and she couldn't let either of them live a lie. She
wished Q had told her this would happen, but he wasn't allowed to divulge
the secrets of the universe to mere mortals. She held the picture close to
her heart and fell back onto the bed and cried.
Riker rang the chime for Vicki Ann's quarters. She had been avoiding him
all day and he wanted to know why. He rang the chime five times. "Computer, where is Dr.
Troi?"
"Dr. Troi is in her quarters."
She must have known it was him. Riker used his authorization code to enter.
"Vicki Ann, where are you? I want to know what's going on. Why are you avoiding me?"
"Coming," her sweet voice called from the bedroom. She sounded normal.
She
must have been trying very hard to sound normal because when she entered the
room, Riker could tell she had been crying. "What's up?"
He walked over to her and ran his fingers through her hair. "What's wrong?"
She pulled away from him. "We need to talk." She sat down on the couch.
"About us."
He sat down next to her, but she moved away a little. "Why? What happened
in San Francisco? Did Q say something to you?"
She shook her head. "We talked, that's all. He helped me figure some things out though. I
did a lot of thinking in San Francisco." She took a
deep breath, trying to gather all the strength she could. "I can't let you
do this."
"Do what?"
"This. Us. I can't let you lie to yourself."
"What am I lying to myself about?"
"Your feelings about me."
"What are you talking about? I love you, Vicki Ann."
"Just listen to me, Will. This relationship has been nothing more than a
replacement for Deanna."
"Deanna?"
"Yes, Deanna. I understand now that you love her and can never be happy with someone
else, no matter how much you try to convince yourself."
"I told you, I fell in love with you, not an image of Deanna. You're different from her."
"You got involved with me because I'm Deanna's sister and that gave you a
tie to her. You rationalized it by lying to yourself and saying that you
loved me for me, not because I reminded you of Deanna. But I did remind you
of Deanna. I can't let either of us continue this lie. It's not fair to
you and it's not fair to me. If we weren't involved, you could rekindle your relationship with
Deanna. And it's not fair for me to be in a relationship where I'm not really loved. I've had
enough experience with
that already. Please, let's just end it now before it goes to far."
Riker nodded slowly. "I'm sorry, Vicki Ann, I never meant to hurt you."
"I know."
He kissed her on the forehead and whispered, "Thank you for helping me figure all of this
out."
She nodded.
"Are you all right?"
"I'm fine. I just need some time alone."
Riker nodded. "I'll see you tomorrow on the bridge."
It had been a week since their talk and Vicki Ann and Riker hadn't spoken to
each other, except for normal bridge orders. Riker had sensed that she'd
needed some time to work out her feelings and get used to the possibility of
Riker and Deanna. He hadn't told Deanna and he didn't think Vicki Ann had
told her either. He had told everyone that it just wasn't meant to be and
ending it at that. He was now sitting at a table in the corner of Ten-Forward, sipping a
drink and trying to determine the next course of action. The doors opened and a woman
entered. She walked over to him, smiling. She sat down across from him and said, "Hello,
Commander."'
He grinned at her. "Hello, Doc. Is everything all right between us or are
you going to place some Betazoid curse on me?"
"You should know better. I don't use curses. If I want something bad to
happen to someone, I do it myself," she replied, her eyes twinkling. She
turned serious. "No, everything's fine. We're still friends. It's hard to
stay mad at someone if you can read their mind."
"I'm glad," he replied.
"So," she asked him. "What are you doing about Deanna?"
"What do you mean?"
"How are you going to win her back?"
Riker shook his head. "You don't know how much I wish you weren't empathic
or telepathic."
"Yes, I do."
Beverly Crusher glanced at the door when she heard it open. She gasped when
she saw who had entered. Vicki Ann was standing there, wincing in pain and
cradling a broken arm. Beverly motioned for Vicki Ann to come over to her.
"What happened?"
Vicki Ann made a face. "I tried Worf's calisthenics program."
"Vicki Ann!" Beverly scolded as she fixed Vicki Ann's arm.
"I know."
"That isn't like you. Is there anything going on?"
"No."
"Vicki Ann, you're lying to me."
"Beverly!"
"I'm serious. What's going on?"
"Nothing." She glanced at the door, which had just opened.. Commander Riker entered. He
waved to her and she replied with a smile and a wave.
As
soon as he was out of her sight, the smile faded.
Beverly noticed this. "What happened?"
"What do you mean 'what happened?' What makes you think anything happened?"
"Ever since you and Will started seeing each other, you both have been all
smiles. For the past week, you both have been all frowns. And just now,
you faked a smile."
"I did not!"
"You're lying to me and to yourself, Vicki Ann. What happened?"
"Can we go in your office.? I don't want to talk in front of all these people. Actually, I
don't want to talk about it at all, but I know you won't rest until I tell you everything."
"You got it. Come on." As they walked to Beverly's office, Beverly said to
Nurse Ogawa, "Alyssa, if anyone needs me, I'll be in my office."
They walked into Beverly's office and Vicki Ann sat down across from Beverly.
Beverly looked at Vicki Ann. "Well?"
"You do understand I am doing this under duress? If they ask you later if I
came to you willingly, you will say you forced me to confess, right?"
"Confess? What did you do, murder someone?"
"No, but I did do something almost as bad. Okay, let me start from the beginning. After my
lecture in San Francisco, I had gone back to my apartment. I had gotten a subspace from
Will, saying hello. I was going to
respond when Q and his. . . . family showed up. After a while, Q's wife got
bored and left with little q. Q and I talked. Mostly just general stuff.
Catching up. Why he settled down. How things were going with Will. Anyway, I told him
that I had received a subspace from Will. I sensed something weird from Q and I asked him
about it. He reminded me of how Will
had gone after Deanna while she was with Worf. That got me thinking. I finally realized
that the only reason Will was with me was because of Deanna. I reminded him of her.
Even if it was slight, it was enough. He loves her, Beverly, and he could
never love anyone else. He can lie to himself and convince himself so absolutely that he
would pass a polygraph test, but he wouldn't really.
He
did that with me. He convinced himself that he loved me for me and not because I was
Deanna's sister, but he didn't. At first when I told Will, he
denied it. Then, eventually, he admitted that he had done it without realizing it. The best
thing for us to do was break up."
"Wow. How do you feel about this?"
"I'm okay with it. I probably knew all along, but didn't want to admit it."
Beverly eyed her. "Okay, Vicki Ann. I know you probably told Will that you're okay with it,
but how do you really feel?"
Vicki Ann stood up and paced. "How do I feel? I told you, it's okay. I
understand why he did it. I can't hold that against him."
"Vicki Ann."
"What?"
"Stop lying to yourself."
Vicki Ann turned away from Beverly. She didn't want Beverly to see her tears. "I'm not
lying to myself." Her voice was shaking. "RaBeem."
"What?"
"It's a Betazoid word. It means 'I understand.' It's one of our main beliefs."
"Oh. Why did you bring it up?"
"Because it applies here."
"Does it?"
"Do you know what, Beverly? I'm tired of understanding! It's all I've ever
done. When someone does something bad to me, I defend them. I say 'I understand why
you did it.' I let people walk all over me and I don't do
anything about it. I just say 'I understand.' Well, I don't! I don't understand how he could
do something like that and not know it!"
"How do you feel about it?" Beverly asked, sounding like a psychologist.
"I'm angry! I'm angry at him and worst of all, I'm angry at her! She strung him along all
these years instead of ending it. Even when she was
engaged to Worf, Will still hoped that he and Deanna would get back together. And what
happens if they don't? He'll have wasted his entire life waiting for someone who was never
coming back to him."
"I can see why you're angry."
"I'm not supposed to, though. I'm supposed to understand."
"Betazoids are supposed to understand, but you're human, too."
Vicki Ann nodded. Her comm badge beeped. "Dr. Troi here."
"Dr. Troi, there is a subspace message coming in for you from a Dr. Bashir," Lt. Stirland
told Vicki Ann.
"I'll take it in my quarters."
"He says it's urgent."
Vicki Ann turned to Beverly. "Do you mind?"
Beverly shook her head. "No." She got up from the desk and went out into
the other room.
"Patch it through to Dr. Crusher's office." Vicki Ann sat down at Beverly's desk and Julian
Bashir's face popped up on the viewer. Vicki Ann
smiled. "Hello, Julian."
Julian's face was grim. "They wanted to send you a standard message, but I
thought it would be better if I told you."
Vicki Ann swallowed. "Told me what?"
"While Captain Sisko was away on the Defiant, he left Jadzia in charge of
the station. A Cardassian broke into the shrine where she was and attacked
her."
Vicki Ann gasped and covered her mouth.
Julian continued, "We managed to save the symbiont. But we couldn't do anything about
Jadzia."
Tears welling up in her eyes, she whispered, "No."
"I tried everything. Nothing could be done."
Vicki Ann snapped out of it. "It wasn't your fault, Julian. When did this
happen?"
"While you were at the conference. I wasn't sure how to reach you-"
"It's alright. I'm not sure I would have found time for a message. I probably wouldn't have
read it until now anyway. How is Worf doing?"
"Not well. No one is, of course, but he's the worst, obviously. For the
moment, he's putting all his energy into the war with the Dominion, but I'm
sure he'll be fine. He's Klingon; he's strong."
Vicki Ann nodded. "That he is. Thank you for telling me, Julian. That was
very thoughtful."
He smiled. "You're welcome."
"Tell Worf hello. I'll stop by and visit on my way home next month."
"I'll tell him. Goodbye, Vicki Ann."
"Goodbye, Julian." The viewer blinked off. The tears that Vicki Ann had he
ld back for most of the conversation, rolled down her cheeks at warp speed.
Beverly walked in. "Vicki Ann, are you finished? I need to- What happened?"
Vicki Ann just shook her head and ran past Beverly. She continued down the
hall. She ran right into Riker, who was coming back to sickbay. "Vicki Ann, what's wrong?"
"Get away from me!" she screamed, pushing past him and down the hall.
Beverly walked out into the hall.
"What happened?" Riker asked her.
Beverly shook her head. "I don't know. I don't know anything."
Vicki Ann sat in the corner of Ten-Forward, sipping some synthehol. She wanted to forget
who she was, where she was, and everything else. Especially about Riker and Deanna and
especially about Jadzia. Just like
Julian had said, it wasn't fair. Jadzia was such a nice person. She hadn't
known Vicki Ann long when they spoke at the same Academy graduation. Jadzia
had found out that it was Vicki Ann's birthday and had arranged a quick surprise party.
They had become fast friends. True, they hadn't seen each
other much, but they had kept in touch. Unfortunately, Vicki Ann had been
unable to get away to attend the wedding, but she'd sent a gift and a personal message
to Jadzia. And now she couldn't get away to go to the funeral. She'd just gotten back.
She let the synthehol go to her head. She felt her spirits lift. She smiled and glanced out
the window.
Riker and Deanna walked into Ten-Forward. Riker had told Deanna that he and
Vicki Ann had broken up, but not why. Deanna noticed Vicki Ann sitting in
the corner.
"Come on, let's go see what's wrong," Deanna told him. They walked over and
Riker sat down across from Vicki Ann. Deanna said, "I'm getting a drink."
"What's wrong, Vicki Ann?" Riker asked her.
"Everything," she replied.
"Is this about us?"
"Yes and no."
"What do you mean?"
"I mean that you aren't the only thing on my mind," she snapped.
Riker seemed taken back.
She continued, "My world doesn't revolve around you."
Riker had never heard her sound this angry. "I never said-."
"You didn't say it, but you think it. You think the entire universe revolves around you,
William T. Riker. See that's what happens when you date a telepath;
they
know what you're thinking."
"Then what is it?"
"What do you care? All you care about is Deanna. Your entire world revolves around her.
And you don't care who you hurt trying to get her back."
"Vicki Ann-," he said, reaching to put his hand on her arm.
"Leave me alone!"
"But I'm your friend and I want to help you."
"You are not my friend! Friends don't hurt each other. Friends don't use
each other like you did. You want to know someone who was a friend? Jadzia
Dax," she screamed, but she whispered Jadzia's name. "And she's dead! And
I'm all alone. So why don't you go back to your precious Deanna and leave
me alone! It's the way I am and it's the way I want to be."
Deanna had just reached the table. She now stared at her sister in disbelief. The
counselor kicked in and she put her hand on Vicki Ann's arm
and said, "I'm sorry about Jadzia."
Vicki Ann shook Deanna's arm off. "You want him? He's yours!" she snapped.
She turned and stormed out of Ten-Forward.
Deanna sat down at the table. "What was that all about?"
Riker shook his head.