"Look, Taya I'm going to have to apologize to you in advance... this all might be rather strange to you but you see there's this infuriatinly annoying Ferengi that loves to harass the people on this station yet there is nothing he loves more than to harass young eligible females that enter his barroom.
Unfortunately he gets away with it because he just so happens to own the bar.
I'm not going to let him get away with it this time.
Sisko, had an idea,which I almost objected to, that I should escort you in like some ancient Terran novella and tell this Ferengi that you are my plus one.
It's ridiculous I know but it just might work.
I hope this ruse doesn't alarm you or offend you in any way".
Odo explained, attempting to disguise his nervousness by adding that usual razor edge to his voice.
"No I'm not alarmed or offended.
It is to be honest, quite comforting that you and Sisko have my best interests at heart.
I hardly know either of you but you're both willing to protect me and frankly I find that very touching.
So I don't think it's a ridiculous idea at all.
It's a very sensible idea in fact."
"Well I don't know about how willing I am but Sisko and Bashir seem to be on board with it.
They are always willing and ready to help someone but let's just say I'm not as eager as they are."
"You're cautious and you should be, not everyone is worth helping and not everyone is trustworthy enough to be helped in the first place.
You take your time getting to know people because you've come across deception before and deception is often unseen and invisible to the naked eye.
This probably makes others think you unwilling to help others but you're not, you're just careful because you know the price of putting your trust in people that cannot be trusted.
It's very painful so I don't blame you for being so careful.
You are a wise man, Odo.
Don't let others put you down for that kind of wisdom.
Wisdom is often not recognized by those that are overly positive and impulsive."
Odo's sky blue eyes lit up with surprise at this because she had literally described his entire character in one single paragraph or at least one aspect of his character.
She just admitted that she hardly knew him but still she had told him things he wasn't even willing to admit to himself.
"I am security, I am order and the Law around here, so of course I'm cautious.
I have every right to be suspicious.
I need to be careful, it is my job to be.
So I'm not cautious and careful because I want to avoid some strange sort of trauma, I'm careful and cautious because I need to be."
"Yes but you're not even on duty right now, so why are you on guard right now?"
"Because of Quark.
We are going to be in close proximity to Quark.
I'm always on guard whenever I'm this close to Quark."
"I take it he's very deceptive then".
"Oh you have no idea.
Somehow he always avoids being arrested, I'll give him one thing, he is very useful when it comes to certain leads.
He usually is the first to point out any criminal activity and usually he leads me straight to it.
It definitely pays off following him around, so if it weren't for his overall usefulness to me, I would have him confined to a cell 24/7.
Although arresting him would be easy enough,
if I were to drag him to confinement what would be the challenge in that?
So he remains out of custody and presently out of confinement."
"It sounds like you have it all under control.
It's wise to be hesitant when arresting those that work and live on this station.
You can't be too careful when it comes to justice.
You certainly can't rush justice, otherwise you may arrest the wrong person.
Cardassians do this all the time.
The amount of arrests is astronomical because they assume everyone is guilty, guilt as you know always serves as the best source entertainment especially in the Cardassian courtroom.
There have been so many Innocent souls that have been condemned to either prison or execution.
Those torture methods alone are enough to make anyone feel guilty.
Believe me I know I've experienced several of them firsthand.
It's not a pleasant experience.
If you ever visit Cardassia I wouldn't recommend it."
"I have no desire to visit Cardassia.
I've been there and I did not enjoy it.
Then they brought me to this station and they ran this place the same way.
I am well aware that you've experienced these Cardassian torture method firsthand.
I've seen the scar remember and I've heard you describe in great detail of exactly how you got that scar.
There's no need to explain further on the subject thank you".
"Then you've seen it too.
Were you ever involved or did you just have to watch?"
Odo was almost offended at this.
"I was never involved in any interrogations whatsoever.
Although Gul Dukat thought I'd be well suited for the job, I refused, so he made me Investigator instead.
Yes I was often made to watch but I took no pleasure in it I can assure you.
I hated the whole experience.
Now I would prefer you didn't ask me such questions regarding the Cardassians.
I'm not willing to relive those horrific moments of my life again, so if you don't mind I'd like to change the subject".
"I'm sorry I didn't mean to offend you.
That was rude of me to pry into such personal details of your life.
I'll not mention Cardassia again if I can help it.
I'm not too keen on talking about the subject myself, especially since I just escaped from there myself not too long ago."
"Hmgh".
This was all Odo said in response to her apology since he caught sight of Sisko sitting in front of a green grated table that was directly outside Quark's Bar.
"Were you waiting long, Commander?"
Odo said the moment he came up to the table in which Sisko was situated in.
"Oh no, not at all.
I was a few moments early you are right on time as usual Odo and You must be the newcomer Bashir and Odo have spoken so much about.
I am Benjamin Sisko, former Commander of DS9 and former Captain of the USS Defiant, It is a pleasure to meet you, Taya Nollo".
Benjamin stood to his feet and graciously struck out his hand to greet her with a warm yet firm handshake.
"The pleasure is mutual.
I've heard so much about you as well and not just from Bashir and the Constable here.
I've heard of many of your missions and Starfleet exploits during my stay on Cardassia.
The Cardassian have a profoundly deep respect for you and your work aboard this station, so it really is an honor and a privilege to get to meet the legendary Commander Sisko of Deep Space 9".
Sisko was taken aback but he was pleased by her adoration and the fact that even Cardassian revered him as a Commander and as a fully contributing member of Star Fleet.
"Well I am flattered.
So what brings you here to Deep Space 9, Friends, Good company or perhaps safe Asylum?"
"I hope to find all 3 actually.
I hope to find friends, good company and a safe place to stay as well.
I've just come from Cardassia and I was hoping to escape their torture and tyranny".
"So you have escaped Cardassia, afterall.
Fascinating. Besides the torture and Tyranny, What else were you escaping from?"
"Gul Madred.
He was my master, he owned me and naturally I didn't want to be owned , I wanted to be free, so I left that place on a Maquis ship.
I have no ties with the Maquis but I heard that the Maquis was kind towards prisoners and captives on Cardassia, however I feared being thrown off, so I hid within the Cargo bay until I left the Alpha Quadrant and came here to this station.
It was not a easy journey and It was quite difficult escaping Cardassia itself.
I failed many times in my escaping exploits but eventually I was able to learn through trial and error, how to escape efficiently and effectively.
I am glad to be here and I hope none of you decide to relocate me elsewhere".
"No, never, we both very well wish for you to remain here in Deep Space 9. Odo I believe has decided that you should continue your stay upon the Station and I must say I have no objections, so the matter has been settled.
You will stay here on Deep Space 9 and live under the protection of the Federation and the Bajoran Government."
"For the time being, yes you may stay here".
Odo grimaced and glared at Sisko for announcing his executive decision so prematurely as he sat down next to Taya.
"Oh Good Evening Constable, Good Evening Sisko.
It's quite a surprise to see you here.
You just came in from Bajor I take it".
Quark barked out the moment Odo sat down.
"Yes Indeed I have. It is lovely this time of year, I almost hated to leave it but I wouldn't dare miss out on seeing all my old friends back on the station, so when Captain Kurland invited me to come along, I simply couldn't refuse.
You look like you've been taking care of yourself.
Did you have your ears waxed recently?"
"Oh that's so kind of you to notice.
I did, get mine waxed a couple of weeks ago actually.
It turns our Vulcan's do a mean waxing treatment.
They're quite good at it.
You don't look too bad yourself...for a hu- man".
"Why thank you Quark.
2 Tarklean
teas please, if you'd be so kind".
"Of course, Of course, anything for The Commander and his friend".
Quark made sure that he gave Odo a ominous side glance just as he fled back to his bar.
"I suppose you noticed the seats.
I thought I'd save you the trouble of going inside, so I reserved these seats outside that way it wouldn't be so awkward for you...in the future".
Sisko tilted his head so as to give Odo a mischievous leer.
"Thank you, Benjamin that was very thoughtful of you.
Still there's the matter of telling him that she's with me".
Odo didn't hold back the venom in his voice but Benjamin still gave him no mind, since he had learned it was best not react to Odo's overall moodiness.
"Your Tarklean Teas.
Oh forgive my manners.
It is such a treat to see such a attractive newcomer as yourself bless me with your presence this evening.
Taya isn't it?"
Quark made his words buttery and sickeningly sweet like the tarklean tea he so often served.
"Yes it is.
Forget it Quark.
She's with me.
Perhaps you know the terran term Plus one.
If you haven't heard the term before allow me to spell it out for you, She's my date, Quark, so BACK OFF!"
Quark Nearly dropped his tray in bewilderment of this unusual news.
He mouthed the words plus one to himself obviously stunned by the fact that Odo actually had a date.
"I hear you loud and clear Odo, The message has been well received but since when do you go on dates?"
"I don't see how that's any of your business, Quark.
NOW GO, before I decide to close down this establishment down for disturbing the peace".
"Yes right away, Constable".
Quark mockingly cowered with his tray secured under his arm as he rolled his eyes and clucked his tongue in disapproval and disgust.
"Now that's how you handle a pesky Ferengi.
You could learn a thing or two from the Constable here.
You sure know how to take charge, Odo.
Even now you've still got it, you still keep that Ferengi in linr even after all these years.
I admit I am most impressed."
"Save the praises Benjamin.
I'm just going along with this ridiculous ruse, when it's something special I'll let you know and you can praise me then".
"Yes but you executed the plan perfectly, Odo and that's surely worth some praise don't you think Taya?"
"Oh yes I definitely think a certain amount of praise is due.
Thank you for scaring that Ferengi creep away, he's been circling around me like a vulture ever since I got here."
"There's no need to thank me, at least not yet.
He's a Ferengi and Ferengi aren't that easily discouraged especially when a female is involved.
I can assure you we haven't seen the last of him.
He'll be around, snooping sneaking and hoping he'll get a chance with you.
He always does and most likely he always will.
So don't get too comfortable.
This is why I'm always on guard with him, he never knows when
to quit or when to give up.
He's highly persistent and he rarely can take a hint.
So Thank me later".
"You never can take a compliment can you?"
Sisko laughed as if he was having the best time of his life.
"No, I'd rather not, not after that sycophantic display you and Quark put on just a few moments ago."
"I was just being polite,Odo.
I was displaying a little charm that's all.
He still is as hideous as ever but I merely appealed to his pride by complimenting his prominent ears.
I was being nice, I still can barely stand the sight of him but perhaps I'm just better at hiding it than you are".
"Obviously you are.
Now if you don't mind, I'd like to discuss something more serious.
I Don't know if you've heard the news Taya but Commander Kurland will be delayed for a few days and Sisko will serve in his place as Commander instead.
This will allow me to remain in security without any interruptions since Kurland thought it was a brilliant idea to leave me in charge of every aspect of this Station.
I may be flexible and durable but I cannot manage both Ops and Security at the same time.
Then there is a matter of your role on this station.
Commander perhaps you'd like to explain to her what that is exactly".
Sisko glared at Odo rather contemptibly.
"Yes, since I'm the new Commander in charge, I'd like to welcome you to Deep Space 9 and I would simply love to offer you a occupation upon this station.
Bashir and Odo boast of your unparalleled skills within the realms of technology.
Perhaps you'd like to serve as some kind of engineer aboard Deep Space 9."
"Oh I don't think I'm qualified to operate any of the technological equipment aboard this station.
I'm certainly not trustworthy enough to touch anything that important.
I'd feel absolutely dreadful if I did anything to damage this station in any way."
"That's what training is for.
You'll be monitored and completely supervised under the invaluable guidance of Chief O' Brian.
He's an excellent teacher and if you are as good as everyone claims, I'm sure you'll catch up in no time.
Miles could use an extra hand in Engineering anyway, right Odo?"
"I'm sure he could yes but I'll double-check just in case.
I'll do that first thing tomorrow morning.
If he doesn't need any assistance, might I suggest you come to work in Security...with me.
I could always use an extra hand myself especially regarding the technological aspect of security details".
Taya's washed out complexion erupted with a new splash of maraschino cherries, she darted her eyes downwards rather bashfully, not embarrassed by her blushing but rather she was flattered by the fact that Odo would consider her at all for such a job.
"Well I'd love to work alongside you, Constable.
In fact it would be an honor to serve under you.
I don't think I'm quite ready to be working as an engineer or even a engineer in training for the matter.
The thought of working in Engineering is exciting but also absolutely nerve wracking.
I don't think I can be trusted just yet to be in training under such a formidable Engineer as Miles O' Brian.
Didn't he work as Chief Engineer aboard the USS Enterprise?"
"Yes he did, many years ago.
He was quite good friends with Captain Picard in fact yet you probably know all about him as well don't you?"
"Well just about.
Picard was one of my favorite Captains actually, besides Janeway of course".
Taya let out a restrained little giggle.
"You seem very well read.
Perhaps you've read the works of Jake Sisko."
"I've read the Anslem many times.
It was one of my favorite books.
You see it was a gift from Gul Dukat when he returned from DS9 one time.
I treasured that book not merely as a gift but as a genuine artifact that came from this Legendary station.
It was one of my most prized possessions because of this fact.
I read it every chance I could get.
It was a extremely riveting book.
I don't usually reread books but that book was well worth to read a 1,000 times perhaps even 1,000 times more after that".
"I'm so glad you enjoyed it.
I shall tell Jake the next time I see him.
I don't know if you've already guessed it but Jake Sisko, the author of Anslem, is not only a friend of mine but he also happens to be my son".
"Really?!
I had no idea.
I mean the last name is the same but I always assumed he was nephew or a cousin.
I didn't realize he was so closely related.
I often dreamt of meeting him one day but I never imagined I'd ever meet his real life father.
You must be so proud.
His works are about the only kind of Terran Literature that was allowed on Cardassia and for that I was greatly thankful for.
If it weren't for you and your son, I'd have nothing to read but old Cardassian records and those appalling Cardassian poems."
"The poems aren't bad but those mystery novels are atrocious!"
Taya finally let herself go enough to laugh and Sisko had to join her for he too enjoyed laughing especially at the expense of the Cardassians.
"Oh how I hated those novels.
There was always a huge court case and a overly suspicious Investigator".
"Don't forget The over zealous Prosecutor accusing everyone of their guilt.
Garak when he was aboard the station used to love gifting us with those novels all the time.
Bashir surprisingly was the first to confront him on the matter, he told them that the stories were far too predictable.
They were novels designed for the holodeck.
It's bad enough having to read them but to be right in the middle of one is practically unbearable.
However did you survive?"
Sisko was enjoying himself now but the humor behind the conversation was lost on Odo.
Odo was confused as he had never received a holodeck program from Garak and he had never been interested enough to read Any of the Cardassian literature ever in his life.
"Well I thought of this station, I managed to get a few pictures and I'd stare at them for hours and when I was done, I'd imagine exactly what it would be like to be here like I am now.
I'd imagine meeting you, Odo, O' Brian and Bashir.
I was inspired and intrigued but the great accomplishments of Jahdzia Dax and by the brave efforts of Major Kiras.
You were all my heroes in a way.
Coming here is essentially what kept me sane all these years on Cardassia.
Now I'm here, I can scarcely believe it.
I almost want to pinch myself just to check if it's all real."
"Oh it's all real alright.
Real enough I can scarcely hold my own enthusiasm in.
Why it's so real I would love to punch it right in the throat.
Can you please back up Quark?
I thought I told you to leave us alone!"
Odo reprimanded Quark who was even Beyond his eye sight but Odo had learned how to distinguish the sound of Quark even if he was a mile away.
"Sorry Constable, I thought you 3 might want something more than a few Tarklean teas.
So I came back to get your orders."
"How very thoughtful of you Quark yet as I recall I never ordered any tea and since you are soooo thoughtful you'll no doubt already know that I won't be requiring any other sort of sustenance.
I don't eat.
So please don't worry about me".
"Enjoying your stay on the station?"
Quark tried to make light of the situation but grinning weakly and even giving Taya a awkward little wink.
Taya nodded while taking a sip of her tea so to avoid talking to Quark altogether.
Odo took notice of this, he typed something into his security tablet and he then slid tablet towards Taya to which she returned this gesture with a concerned and slightly questioning expression.
Odo pointed briefly and very secretly to the screen so as not to alert Quark of his actions.
Taya quickly got the message and she very surreptitiously peered upon the screen to see something written in Modern day Cardassian.
Quark knew nothing about the Cardassian language and Odo knew this so he had written the message to her on his tablet in Cardassian for that reason and also for the reason that he knew Taya spoke Both Modern and Ancient Cardassian quite fluently.
There was no way for Taya to spend 15 years on Cardassia and not have picked up the language while she was there.
The message read "YOU DON'T HAVE TO TALK TO HIM IF YOU DON'T WANT TO.
YOU CAN EITHER SPEAK TO ME OR TO SISKO.
WHISPER IT OR WRITE IT DOWN AND WE'LL TAKE CARE OF IT.
Taya responded by whispering to Odo of her order.
"Why is she whispering?
Am I missing something?"
Quark looked disturbingly puzzled by her behavior.
Sisko decided to clear up the matter for Quark.
"Oh it's nothing to be alarmed about, you see she is very shy, she doesn't like to talk to strangers often, so she often whispers her demands and desires to others.
Besides isn't it customary for her kind not to directly address a male that is presently unannounced?"
"Oh yes, I believe that is the custom on her home planet.
It's terribly rude to address any male that hasn't been introduced."
Odo went along with this ruse.
"Well perhaps you two kind Gentlemen could introduce me".
Odo and Sisko unknowingly barked at Quark at precisely the same time.
"NO!"
They both blatantly barked at him in unison.
"I mean no it won't be necessary at least not yet, you see every male that she is to encounter must never be introduced on the first meeting.
The male must only be introduced after 6 months of their first meeting.
It is tradition, you can't very well break her people's long kept tradition now can you?
She's very culturally inclined and she respects the laws passed down from her ancestors.
So perhaps we may introduce you to her in the future but not now."
Sisko was obviously having far too much fun fabricating these false traditions of hers.
"Sooo she's staying for awhile I take it.
Well then I still have a chance.
I'll see you in 6 months then.
I'll give you a pinch for good measure just so you know I'm The real deal."
Quark licked his brown lips and winked at her yet again.
"Highly unlikely, Quark.
I'm the reason she was brought on this station in the first place and she came here on my behalf which means if I ask her nicely she will go elsewhere, to another station perhaps.
So don't push it, I push back remember.
She'll have one Talaxian Omelette please.
Oh before you leave, if I see you loitering her table or loitering any place else that she might be on this station, I will make sure one of my ensigns will escort you into my office for questioning, is that understood?"
"Perfectly Constable.
Your Order Commander Sisko?"
"I'll have the same thank you".
Sisko feigned a pleased smile in Quark's direction.
"Excellent Your food will be out momentarily.
I hope you enjoy".
Quark gave them a shallow bow and then he took a awkward step backwards almost running through the archway wall of the bars entrance but his heels missed it by a few inches.
"What did I tell you? I told you he was persistent and yes I will bring him in for questioning if he continues to loiter anywhere around this station.
I'll make sure it's a long and arduous process as well, that way it will be worthwhile for the both of us. Just think if you work in security you might even get to watch, Ferengi are extremely over dramatic, it's actually quite fun to watch. I like to Think of it as entertainment. If you've never seen a screaming Ferengi, you'll be in for a treat. Last time I heard Quark scream, I thought the station sirens were going off. The only reason I let him go was so he would stop.
I told him if he didn't stop I'd arrest him for disturbing the peace.
I can't believe he fell for that one, He knows he's far too useful for me to arrest him but still he's gullible enough to believe my empty bluffs. I wasn't bluffing this time though. I'm tired of bluffing, bluffing bores me. I'd rather keep my promises this time."
"I'd drink to that.
To keeping Promises and to Keeping friendships even longer."
"Hear, hear!"
Odo chimed in after him while Sisko raised his plastic cup to meet Taya's with a thunky dull clink.
"Now tell me more about this journey of yours.
Bashir tells me you're quite the storyteller.
He was absolutely ecstatic about your skills as a raconteur."
"You Forget Bashir is often easily impressed especially by any attractive female that walks his way".
"He appreciates many things Odo.
Beauty, intelligence, resilience and strong character all of which Taya clearly possesses yet still a story is a story and everybody loves a good story but no one appreciates anything more than someone who can tell a story well.
So why don't we allow her to demonstrate?"
Odo nodded his head sideways in approval.
"Well I'll tell you what I told Odo not too long ago that in order to tell you how I got here I suppose I should tell you how it began.
I began my life in on a Idyllic planet known as Yandera Prime.
It was beautiful place, green and lively, the people were as cheerful and vibrant as the wild flowers that engulfed our heavenly little valley.
Life was simple for us in the Gamma Quadrant, even the Dominion left us alone but that was only out of respect for my grandfather.
My Grandfather was a brilliant man who's ingenuity and intelligence made our village so self sufficient and resilient against the harsh winters and other outside threats.
He was a good man, a kind man, who even supplied The Dominion with protection by graciously sharing some of his own inventions."
"You don't mean weapons do you?"
Odo didn't fight to hide his rather alarmed suspicion this time.
"Quiet Odo, let her finish.
Her grandfather has no connection with Jem Hadar any longer, he's passed away, so please be respectful".
Sisko silenced Odo and Odo rolled his eyes but after crossing his arms he didn't say a word for quite sometime.
"Yes they were weapons of some sort but only a few of them were, the rest were mostly holographic projectors, wrist watch stasis field generator and his pride and joy, Synaptic Stimulators capable of transmitting messages.
He came up with many more of them over the years and by the time I was 8 years of age he'd probably created over 1,000 inventions,maybe even a millon.
You see his technology is very similar to Star Fleet regulated equipment but it's a bit more complicated, you could say it's like Star Fleet but with a twist".
Taya bent over onto the table and gave Sisko a goofy grin and Sisko smiled while leaning into the table as well.
Oh may the Gods of the Wormhole help me.
Oh no they are actually bonding.
I hadn't expected this.
I hadn't even wanted this.
Now they're sharing secrets and smiling at each other like they shared the same bunker at summer camp.
Now they're going to be friends which means I'll never get her to leave this station, not as long as Sisko is here.
I wish I could leave, besides I've already heard this Story.
Odo lamented to himself.
"That's how I was able to figure out how to trick the security into letting me into this station.
I was able to manipulate the computer into thinking I was Constable Odo.
If you check the computers records you'll see a log in on the docking bay done at precisely 1800 hours.
It was really quite easy, practically child's play, since my grandfather was such a maverick in the engineering field.
Then of course I was sent to a Vulcan Engineering training program for over 10 years so that certainly helped".
Odo grabbed his tablet and he scrolled down a list of logins.
Sure enough there was an entry at 1800 that wrote "Checking Loading Docks. Loading Docks Cleared for transport".
"I don't believe this.
Take a look at this Commander".
Odo very officially handed the Tablet with a swift flick of his wrist.
"Why by jove she did use your clearance to get past the loading docks.
So, your, story does check out after all".
"I told you I was the real deal".
Taya snuck in a mischievous wink towards Odo while Sisko continued to glare at him in amusement.
"Okay, I was wrong, I must have overlooked that particular login yet it's not as if I knew what I was looking for.
How was I supposed to know that I should be on the look out for login anomalies that were under my name?
What I want to know is how you managed to replicate my voice and get ahold of my set of command codes?"
"Alpha Odo 5931."
The Tablet loudly announced
"Welcome Constable Odo. How may I help you?".
Odo nearly allowed the tablet to slip from his grasp, his eyes were now two bright beacon under his deep set brow.
"That's how I did it".
She snarkily and smugly stated.
"I... still...don't understand.
Your voice shouldn't even register, it doesn't even match, how is my tablet and the computer's security system recognizing you as Constable Odo Ital?"
"Replicator malfunction commence. Overflow receptacles by 30 percent. Temperature 102 degrees."
Taya's voice went back to being emotionless and robotic again.
There was a ear splitting scream coming from inside the bar.
"I'd know that scream anywhere.
Sounds like Quark had a bit of trouble with the replicator and it sound as if he had first hand experience with it.
I like you, what other tricks can you do?"
"I can do many other tricks I assure you and I can show you tomorrow at the office if you'd like."
"Oh so that means we can keep her?
Tell Me we can keep her, please, Odo.
She's all alone without a master, she needs a home, please let's keep her, please, please, please".
Sisko was pretending to beg like a child would for a stray puppy which was not lost on Odo.
"Yes we can keep her...
for now...just as long as you agree not to use my security codes to enter any restricted areas on this station".
"Oh no that was a one time thing.
I won't be using those codes for anything else I promise you.
I'll be a good girl, this time I promise".
"Sisko I urge you, not to encourage her, she's in training, she needs structure and discipline, don't have me reprimand you again now".
Odo smiled to inform both of them that he was catching on to their humor finally.
"Anyway go on, what about your grandfather now?"
"My grandfather is only part of the story, Commander".
"Oh no,no,no, please call me Benjamin or Ben if you prefer.
You are amongst friends here so there's no need to be so formal".
"Well, Benjamin, my Grandfather was a well reknown scientist, inventor and engineer, so of course I took after him yet I was about to answer Odo how the computer recognized me as Odo Ital.
It's really quite simple I merely just mentally hacked into the computer.
It's not really a hack exactly its more of mental manipulation like Odo says it is.
I can control technology with my mind."
"I knew it yet you always denied it."
Odo smugly grimaced as if he was some know it all kid that won the spelling bee that day.
"Yes you were right all along.
It's no secret especially from you.
You always knew the truth.
Anyhow my grandfather's reputation in the Gamma Quadrant protected us from harm for the most part until war broke out over Yandera, there was a mass of flames, it was like the sky was bleeding, the sky was weeping blood that day, then the smoke came to soak up the blood like soiled cotton bits but it didn't drown out the screams and crumbles of the desolation, the lonely sobs and the stench of decay that arose in the skies twisting around the smoke like dancing snakes before a fire.
Then the Jem Hadar came, I saw them on the outskirts but they weren't alone.
A whole fleet of Cardassians was on their tail trailing not too far behind them.
I suppose our planet was just a casualty in their war over the Gamma Quadrant.
I remember my grandfather scooping me up and running past all the smoke, the crumbling buildings and the stench of burnt flesh and boiled blood, yet the Jem Hadar found me before my grandfather could, so I was dragged to abandoned rock.
I remember hearing two of the Jem Hadar shouting at one another.
They said something close to what sounded like "No We Can't take this one with us. She is female and she is not yet full grown.
She is of no use to us."
I thought they were going to kill me but then a voice rose over the screams, it was a voice that not only made me tremble but it made the very earth beneath me tremble as well.
'You will NOT harm her.
She is not just any ordinary civilian.
She is the daughter of Voraxa and Anetra, granddaughter of Rurigian.
Kill her and you will lose all honor and respect in this Quadrant."
Then light melted the smoke and it formed a halo around a tall intimidating figure.
He had greyish green skin, a prominent neck, there were scales ridges on him that decorated his neck like seams, these ridges dipped down his forehead creating a oblong crater.
Whoever he was the Jem Hadar were not keen on listening to him so they fired at him to which he flipped out his phaser and he shot both of them down before they could even fire another shot.
6 more came and he finished every single one with nothing but a phaser.
When he was done defeating the Jem Hadar, he introduced himself to me as Gul Dukat.
He and his men searched through the rubble but everyone in my village was found to be dead, my mother and father were recovered from under the wreckage but no one ever found the remains of Rurigan.
I found out later he had survived but not for long, he became severely ill after relocating to a neighboring planet.
Gul Ducat had intended to return me to my grandfather but since none of my family was found alive he brought me with him to Cardassia.
However I was still a prisoner of war and even though I was his prisoner It was decided in the Cardassian courts that I be sold to a certain Cardassian known as Gul Madred.
He tried fighting the judge but there was nothing he could do, the court had decided and their judgment was final and could not be questioned.
Gul Madred was not a kind master, in fact he gave me this hideous scar you see on my face.
He gave me many scars, some were visible while others were not.
Gul Dukat tried to negotiate with Madred over the years but he was prideful and stubborn, once he figured out I had certain abilities that could prove useful to him Madred called off any negotiations to claim me.
He refused to free me or give me up in any way.
However Madred did train me in both Cardassian and Klingon Combat quite extensively, out of all things Madred provided me, those extensive training sessions in Klingon Martials Arts and Cardassian battle tactics were the only things I was grateful for.
The Vulcan Academy was Dukat's doing and that goes for any sort of kindness I was given while I was captive on Cardassia.
He often invited me over to his Villa, so I could escape the relentless abuse of Gul Madred.
He treated me as a daughter, he invited me to his family dinners, he gave me gifts on my birthday, he introduced me to his family and he even allowed me to play with his children.
I was treated very well by Dukat however Madred didn't improve in his treatment towards me but rather he became worse over the years.
When Dukat left Cardassia for good, I was left to deal with Madred myself.
I was tortured nearly everyday by him and his interrogators.
If it wasn't physical torture it was emotional torture instead.
I eventually found a way to successfully escape but that was after years of being dragged to a cell and severely punished for my failed attempts to flee from Cardassia.
However none of that matters now, because now I'm here, I'm free and I'm safe and finally I can live for myself and not for Madred.
Anyhow that's been my story so far".
Odo was still stunned even after hearing it the second time and what enthralled him most was that she had included even more details than she had on the first run through of her story.
"That is a spectacular story, Taya and you are a spectacular storyteller.
You created so many vivid visuals and you were so graphically descriptive when you illustrated the war between The Dominion and the Cardassians.
If you can tell a story that well, I think a book may be in order.
Do you dabble in a bit of writing by any chance?"
"Oh yes I have dabbled here and there with writing.
I'd write mostly poetry but sometimes I'd come up with my own stories.
There wasn't much to do on Cardassia, so writing and reading were pretty much my only sources of entertainment there.
I don't think I was all that good but then again Cardassia isn't the best environment for inspiration now is it?"
"No, definitely not".
Sisko rested his hand under his
chin.
"No, not unless you enjoy unbearably stifling weather and taking pleasure in the consistent and constant pain and misery of others.
From my experience Cardassia is dry and devoid of any sort of inspiration, joy, happiness or pleasure.
It is a society that relies on discipline, swift justice and what humans call "Tough love".
Children are often neglected emotionally speaking and whole families are often abandoned due to war, battle strategies and other political duties.
Mercy is scarce, pity is practically non existent and love is almost forbidden to be expressed unless done in the privacy of their homes.
So exactly what inspiration were you expecting to find in such a formidable and forbidding planet?"
Odo made his eyes harsh as blue steel.
Taya just stared at him in stunned silence.
"I was expecting nothing but hardship on a planet like that, that's why I came here, so I could have hope again.
Cardassia is a merciless and hopeless place and I wanted to free of it, so that's why I'm here.
You already know this.
If I had found any comfort on that planet, believe me I wouldn't be here."
Taya made sure her words stung with a harsh and swift edge, like that of a reapers blade.
"I believe that it is enough questions for today.
No doubt she'd like to know more about Deep Space 9.
Maybe you could talk more about your work Odo, as Chief of Security.
I'm sure she'd find it absolutely fascinating".
Sisko was desperately trying to draw out the venom that had sprung into the air between Odo and Taya.
Odo didn't allow his gaze to wander from her, It was the gaze of a hawk and Taya at that moment understood what Odo was trying to communicate with her.
I'm watching you Taya and I hope you know I'll never stop.
My eyes will be on you like a hawk, my gaze will be your constant shadow and I will never relent in figuring out the truth of your story and how you got here.
Sisko can't see the danger, he can't even detect your deceptive treachery but I see right through this ruse of yours.
I see right through you.
I always will, I hope you know as long as you remain on this station there will be no escape, no there Will be no escaping me.
You won't escape my notice.
I will always find you and I will always know exactly where you are.
Its my job to know everyone's whereabouts but I will take extra care to keep track of you.
I don't trust you and until you prove you are trustworthy, I will always be on trail, I will either be far ahead of you or a few steps behind you.
I will always catch up to you.
Don't try to fool me, Taya I know you aren't a complete innocent.
So stop acting like you're that simple girl next door.
This is all a ruse, I know it is and no amount of acting is going hide that from me.
Stop the theatrics, stop the games, I know you have secrets and believe me I will be the one to find them all out.
Just wait.
Odo's gaze seemed to say to her.
However what Taya did next, was something that Odo had not anticipated.
She slid her hand very non challantly towards her drink but instead of reaching for it head on she allowed her arm to coast ever so slowly towards him, which brought the drink closer to the edge of the table.
She then subtly and very swiftly snapped her wrist forward so the cup teetered off the edge and the content splashed all over him, the Tarklean tea, cascaded down onto his lap like a broken fountain.
"Oh I'm so sorry.
I'm all nerves tonight.
I really do apologize.
I'm not usually this clumsy.
I hope that didn't damage your uniform too much".
Odo shot up from his seat, there was a unmistakable rage in his eyes.
Taya almost attempted to use her napkin to wash out the stain on his uniform when Odo smacked her hands away.
"I'll have you know this is not a uniform.
This is a mere simulation of one.
So no it's not damaged in any way.
This isn't even real material.
It is a part of me, it is equivalent to what you would think of as your own skin.
So if you don't mind please don't touch anything.
I don't need your help removing this stain thank you.
I can sort it out myself just fine!"
Now it was obvious that Odo was extremely angry and upset.
"Odo, would you please lower your voice.
There's no need to shout.
We are in public.
There really is no point in shouting at her.
It was clearly an accident.
Accidents happen and she already expressed to you that she was sorry.
She apologized and since there's was no damage done, I don't see why you are so upset".
"Oh yes clearly it was just an accident.
Obviously you are ever so sorry.
Consider your apology accepted!"
Odo took ahold of the cloth that Taya had attempted to use on his false Bajoran uniform and he slammed it down on the table and marched off from Quark's outside tables.
"Sorry about that.
I'll go talk to him."
Sisko was almost about to go after him but Taya intervened.
"No, don't bother, Benjamin.
This is my fault, I'll go talk with him.
After all he's angry with me not with you.
So I'll handle the situation."
"Well alright then, if you think it would help, go for it, yet I warn you he's not a easy man to talk to when he's in such a foul mood like the one he's in now.
Although who knows you might be able to get through to him.
Good Luck Taya".
"Thank you, Commander".
Taya struggled keeping up with Odo's long strides but eventually after going into a light jog she was finally able to catch up with him.
Odo wanted to ignore her because he felt that the next word he said to her would probably come out as very loud and possibly even explosive.
"Odo I'm sorry, I'm sorry for what I did back there.
I really am.
I didn't intend for anything to go that far."
"Oh really? Then pray tell how far were you intending to go exactly? Until I ended up screaming, until I broke something or somebody else for the matter?
How far was this ruse going to take you?
It's taken you this far, you've already enchanted the Commander and the Doctor.
Why stop now?"
"I didn't realize you thought everything I did was just a ruse".
"Oh I don't think everything you do is a ruse, rather I think everything you do is a scheme, a scheme to make yourself invaluable and irreplaceable aboard this station.
You're frightened that I'll remove you from DS9 so you are doing everything in your power to Make sure that never happens.
That's why you've gotten to be so chummy with Sisko isn't it?
You're not going to stop there, Oh no you'll keep digging for connections, until you have everyone on this station
completely at your disposal.
So I understand perfectly what you are planning."
"So you think I'm here just to turn everyone against you?"
"Yes, that's what you're doing isn't it?"
"Look, Odo what I did back there, I'll admit was no accident.
I was angry and upset, so I spilled that drink on you,
purposefully.
I was being petty, Odo.
I was being a child.
I honestly didn't mean to hurt you.
What I did was stupid and impulsive, in my anger, my frustration and my rage, I did that.
I wasn't even angry at you really.
It's true I have been all nerves, I've been all nerves since I came here but that's not your fault yet still I took it out on you and I'm sorry".
Odo stopped marching for a moment and looked at her dead on in the face and to his surprise all he saw was sincerity.
"You do realize, that you humiliated me don't you?".
"Yes I do."
"You do realize you humiliated me not just in public but in front of Sisko, who's not only someone I look up to, he was my superior officer? There is no one in this quadrant that I respect more.
He's one of my closest friends, Taya and no doubt he either thinks I'm being highly irrational or that I've completely fallen off my rocker right now.
He probably thinks I'm crazy, right now which is not a great feeling Taya.
If I lose his respect, I think I'll be losing the only respect I have left... for myself.
Is that what you wanted to hear or did you even expect to hear this at all in the first place?
If I lose respect from him, I will probably lose respect for myself.
It's as simple as that and you are Complicating things, you are ruining my reputation aboard this station.
If you continue down this path eventually you will ruin me.
I cannot allow that to happen, I don't want it to come to this, Taya.
I don't want to have to make ultimatums, ultimatums like either you go or I go."
"I don't want to ruin you, Odo.
Honestly I don't.
I was afraid of you sending me away but I'd never sabotage your reputation or your career just for the sake of staying here.
I'd rather leave than have it come to that.
So if you want me to leave, I'll leave.
I know you never wanted me to come here in the first place and I know being here has only added extra stress to both your work and your life here.
I'm sorry, Odo.
I know I don't belong here.
It was silly of me to think I could make a home here for myself.
I know you think I'm a threat to this station and I know by the way you look at me that I'm a threat to you as well.
I honestly don't want to endanger anyone so I should do the right thing, I should save you the trouble and I should just leave.
It will be better that way.
You'll be better that way as well.
You can keep your reputation and self respect if I'm gone on the next Freigher Ship to Bajor."
"Are you just trying to manipulate me or are you seriously planning to head off to Bajor?"
"I don't know if I'm serious about going to Bajor but I'm serious about leaving.
I'll go somewhere, somewhere far away from this station."
"Do you even want to go?"
"No, I don't.
Frankly I'd rather stay but it doesn't really matter what I want, It never has really about what I wanted, so I'll go because obviously you don't want me here".
"I never said I didn't want you here."
"You don't say it but I know you feel it, I know You've thought about it and I know you want it.
You want me gone, so I'm not going to stay if you're that keen on sending me away.
I know you see me as some deceptive little vixen but I do respect you Odo, so if you want me to leave I'll respect your decision and I will do as you say."
Odo feigned a sigh.
"No, that won't be necessary.
You can stay.
Besides I've already made my decision, I made it long before I even announced it.
I want you to stay, so you can stay alright".
"No it's not alright.
You aren't going to admit it are you?"
"Admit what?
That I wanted you gone?
You want to know why I wanted you gone Taya?
I wanted the stress gone, I wanted the pressure of responsibility to be lifted off my back.
I didn't want to be responsible, for you and for every single person aboard this station.
I didn't want to held responsible for bringing this whole station to ruin.
I didn't want to mess up, make one wrong move and have it all crashing down on me.
I had to push down my fears and stomp out my logic just so you could stay here.
Now I may have either made the best or possibly the worst decision in my entire career.
Now the choice is up to you.
Although I hate the fact you have this kind of power over me, my job is in the balance and that balance can be disrupted by you at any given moment.
My job could very well become completely non existent and obsolete because of you.
That little parlor trick in the docking bay, could have cost me my entire career and everything I have worked for on this station.
If Star Fleet traced those login records to me and found out I was the one that allowed a actual Maquis ship to dock on this station, they will inform Bajoran authorities and once that happens, I'll no longer be fit to wear this badge or ever be able to wear this kind of uniform ever again.
What you did to get onto this station, could still very well cost me everything Taya.
This station is the only home I have, so if I lose this job I lose everything.
So this is a lot more serious than Tarklean Tea.
This is more to me than just a stained uniform, you know this".
"Then let me fix this.
I'll fix it for you, I promise you.
Really, I'll make it up to you.
I'll behave myself, I'll do exactly as you say, I won't argue with you, I'll be quiet, I'll even stay out of your way and I won't tell you any of my ridiculous stories, okay."
"Yes you will fix this, you will fix everything and if you don't, I hear Bajor is lovely this time of year".
Odo grinned down on Taya rather snarkily.
"You will remove those login records and I want to see you in my office every morning, on time at precisely 1800 hours.
That's 6:00 AM in human standards.
You will make it up to me by becoming my technical assistant and if need be, you will be my deputy on any and every investigation, I take on.
You will even assist me on undercover investigations and that's not because I like you or the fact that we used to be friends, it's because I don't trust you and I don't want you wandering around this station unattended.
So you will be supervised, constantly, since you like this face so much, that I've chosen, you'll be getting quite accustomed it over the indefinite time in which you'll be here.
So no, I won't be checking with O'Brien first thing tomorrow morning, no I'll be hovering over you and watching you like a hawk untill you prove yourself to be absolutely trustworthy.
You want my respect and my trust, you'll just have to earn it and my trust and respect just so happens to be a very sparing and scarce commodity, so don't expect to get it that easily.
Now you and I are going to head back to Quark's and you will not embarrass me in any way, ever again and you'll behave yourself for the entire evening.
This conversation never happened, I'll tell you what conversation did happen.
I was terribly upset and you miraculously were able to calm me down.
You will smile and you will laugh as if it was all just some funny misunderstanding, you solved it, I'm happy, you're happy we're all friends again.
Have I made myself clear?"
"Yes Constable Ital.
You know I'm really not plotting against you don't you?"
"If you were plotting against me, I'd have you in a cell by now, so yes I know you're not plotting my ruin.
If it makes you feel any better I may have over reacted with the Tarklean Tea incident but if you pull anything like that again, you won't be on the next ship to Bajor, you will be on the next ship to a Terran Prison.
I'm not bluffing, so I suggest you conduct yourself this evening in a lady like manner and restrain your petty passive aggressive behavior.
Sisko may be in the commander's chair but I still hold the reigns in Kurland's absence, so Sisko won't be the one making those executive decisions, I will.
So I Will be the one who gets to decide exactly where I think you should go which means Sisko can't save you since he has no ties to Starfleet whatsoever.
Normally the federation could overrule my authority but since I represent both Bajor and The Federation at the moment, there is really nobody aboard this station that can tell me otherwise.
So it's best not to challenge me, alright".
"Yes it's understood."
"Good and by the way you are absolutely delighted to be my new deputy, You simply can't contain your Excitement.
Play the part and we'll get along just fine".
Odo gave her a creepily wicked smile.
"Yes I'll play my part.
Anything for you, Odo".
Taya had that vacant voice again but this time it had a fed up and sarcastic tone that had been added to it.
"That's exactly what I want to hear.
Music to my ears, keep singing, songbird.
Maybe you'll get an encore".
"I can only hope".
She forcefully smiled and the frowned shortly afterwards.
This was not the kind of relationship she had hoped to have with Odo but there was now nothing she could do about it yet on the bright side she was to be exceptionally close to Odo so perhaps things weren't so bad after all.
If there was anyone she'd rather be working under it had to be Odo.
Odo was her hero in a way, so now she had to prove to her hero that was she worthy to be his friend.
Maybe it wasn't going to be easy but then again nothing ever came easy to her and she knew how to work hard and how to take orders fairly well.
So perhaps this could be a fun experience, somehow.
She just had to get over this bump in the road.
She had to show Odo she wasn't just a petty passive aggressive vixen that was plotting to destroy him.
There had to be a way but How?
Odo was pleased with the evening get together and he was pleased enough to even offer to escort her back to her quarters.