Disclaimer: This is fanfiction. Anything you recognize is not mine. All characters and events in this story are entirely fictional.
-=oOo=-
Faile walked into the room with the four aliens. The Rowan was by her side. Riker and Kira were already there.
"We beamed them off a severely damaged ship," said Kira. Faile responded.
"They are Skrreean. I do not know much about them. I vaguely recall they were conquered by some group that isn't around any more and then we annexed their world as part of the Dominion," said Faile.
The woman shrunk back when she said the word Dominion.
"Do you know her language?" asked Riker.
"Unfortunately, I do not."
"Would one of you like to try, or should I ask Deanna?" asked WIll.
"Kira can try. She is doing better at her lessons. She has to learn sometime," said Rowan.
"Alright," said Kira. Kira led the woman over to some chairs on the side of the meeting room.
"Just relax and focus. Whatever you learn that is sensitive, keep to yourself, unless you have a good reason," said Rowan.
"The universal translator will lock onto their language if they can talk enough," said Riker.
"I'll give it a go," said Kira.
They sat at the far end of the room as Kira slowly focused on the woman and slowly began conversing with her. Twenty minutes later they were conversing for real, part in thought and part in words. The translator caught up as well. The interesting bit is they believed Bajor was their destined homeland. The really interesting bit was that they had three million refuges.
The Rowan and Faile slipped out and then the two met Deanna back at Sela's.
"What do you think?" asked the Rowan of Faile.
"She did not report any problems getting through. I presume the elders thought that if refuges wanted to leave then you were welcome to them. Do you intend to help them?"
"I don't think they need our help, thought I do have an idea. Just a moment." The Rowan reached out gently and sort of mentally knocked to talk to Kira.
"Yes, what is it?" sent Kira distractedly.
"If they truly need a place to stay, well you do have a fertile moon that could easily handle three million," suggested Rowan.
"Yea, I'm just not sure the Bajoran government wants to deal with refuges. I'll mention it privately to them first. Personally, I think we should help them," sent Kira.
"Understood."
Back at their table the Rowan said, "I suggested to Kira that they consider using that moon we saved thanks in part to the Romulans."
"You would have to find your own infrastructure this time, if you did do that," noted Sela.
"I'm more concerned with the whole we think you are standing on the promised land. Wars throughout history have been fought for such reasons far too often," added Deanna.
"Either way, other than helping on the edges, this doesn't seem our problem," noted Rowan.
"I wonder why they left. I honestly don't recall much about them. Our desire is order and stability. If they respect our rules and obey during the times we actually insist we leave them alone otherwise."
"Some people do not wish to live in even a gilded cage," said Deanna softly.
"I cannot do anything about that."
"Sure you can. You are learning about outside of your culture. No one expects you to agree with everything, but just learning should help a little," said Deanna.
"We also need to do our part. I confess I'm not entirely looking forward to being with so many at once. It scares me a little, particularly with our family present," said Rowan.
"It will be fine. I will not allow any of you to be hurt," said Faile.
"When do you think it should happen?"
"Not yet I think. I was considering spending more time doing your original job. It seems a valuable skill to practice," said Faile.
"Wherever they end up, they are likely to need a lot of stuff moved to help them out. They would probably ask me to help. Would you care to help as well?" asked Rowan.
"Yes, I would like that. Perhaps if some of this is, well, it can't hurt."
"How are you and our daughter doing?" asked Deanna curiously.
"We are well. We have fun. I just don't think either of us really wants more than that."
"That's fine. You have the key bit down. If it ever goes anywhere, well you have our blessing," said Deanna.
"I'm tempted to offer to send her to my world. They could really use the help, and maybe that could be a learning experience too," said Rowan.
"I have thought about it. The memories and such you have shared... I think I would like to go there one day, but it seems less interesting than here right now," said Faile.
Rowan nodded. "You know you and Laura could go someplace else. We'd have to figure out security, but your obviously both adults."
"If necessary, I could summon Jem'Hadar ships to assure our security."
"I hope it is not needed, but you do what you have to do."
"Of course."
Several days later they saved a young Skrreean who stole a dangerously unsafe ship by porting him to the transporter pad before it exploded. RIker covered for them, pretending it was the transporter.
-=oOo=-
A day later Faile was sitting eating quietly in Sela's restaurant when a young man walked in. Sela raised an eyebrow and walked over to him.
"You are the Trill initiate, are you not?" asked Sela.
"I think that's over. Jadzia doesn't seem to be too impressed by me. She hasn't formally dropped me, but I"m pretty sure it is coming."
"Would you like food, or perhaps Romulan wine?"
"Both perhaps? I can't just give up, so I should eat something, though I feel like drinking a whole bottle."
"It is understandable when long standing dreams are lost. I will bring your meal out shortly," said Sela.
Faile turned to where the young man was sitting. "I'm curious, why exactly would you do this thing?"
"What do you mean. It is the dream of most Trill to be chosen to be joined."
"You did not answer my question," she noted.
"I..." he trailed off.
"Let me guess then. A desire to be more, to do more, for wisdom and knowledge and all that. Perhaps even family expectations?"
"I'm Arjin. Can I ask how you know that?" asked the man surprised.
"I'm am Faile. It is good to meet you. As to why, my race naturally can link with each other and I am also a telepath, though my ability there has been gained recently."
"Then you know what it is like. I mean it isn't exactly the same, but you understand?"
"Yes, but it is clear that you do not."
"Can you help me?" asked Arjin.
"Perhaps. I do not think I wish what you wish. I am concerned my people link too long and too often. Parts of us are diminished. We seem to recover it in time, but you are seeking a continuous merge that does not end. Why?" asked Faile again.
"If I am to fail, then I would at least understand it. Maybe Jadzia is right and I am unfit."
"You still do not understand. If you wish to, give me your hand."
Arjin swallowed and held out his hand to the very pretty young woman. She took it and then their hands joined as one.
"Do not panic," sent Faile.
"What is this?" he asked, obviously trying to remain calm.
"Can't you sense it? This is what you seek, if only the beginning of it."
"Is that you?" he asked as he began to sense her in wonder.
"Yes. Now show me why you and only you want this thing. You need not use words here," sent Faile.
"I want to do more, to not be just Arjin the unnoticeable. I have studied hard to have skills that are helpful, that would allow me, I don't know to save people, to help in some way. I hear the people on this station are really impressive; that Dax is really impressive. There was so much I wanted to do."
"Then do it. Why exactly do you need this thing?"
"I'm Trill. To learn all the skills needed would take more than a lifetime."
"You have a similar life span to humans right?"
"Yes, we are not all that different. We can have children together and such."
"You have time. You just need to work at it."
"What about you?" asked Arjin.
"I do not believe we are biologically compatible."
"Wait your not. Of course you are not human."
"Yes, I believe I have made that clear enough. What skill do you want to get from a symbiote?"
"All of them," he jokingly answered in their mind. Then he focused on a real answer. "I want to first thank you for this. This helps me understand. I suppose my biggest hope is to have the wisdom not to make all the big mistakes that cost so many lives. It would be nice to learn how to play an instrument though, or more medical knowledge or, well so many things."
"You know how to fly a ship, right?" she asked.
"You can tell that?"
"Yes, this isn't a deep connection, but pieces still can leak over. Would you show me this skill?" thought Faile.
"You want to learn piloting?" asked Arjin.
"I know a fair amount, but I want you to show me what you know," sent Faile.
"Alright. I'll try," sent Arjin.
They focused together as Arjin slowly went back through the beginnings of his flight training. After they completed his first lesson she asked, "Is it my turn for a quick lesson before we part?"
"Please," asked the part that was Arjin.
Together they felt her becoming a small mouse and foraging through the forest.
"That's amazing," he thought. "You truly are amazing."
"You are also more than you believe you are. There is no need for you to push for this thing."
"Could we do this again? This seems too precious. I promise, I'm not trying to. You are a very pretty woman. I hope I have not offended you," sent Arjin.
"You have not, but you probably should get your head checked. I'm just learning, but it should be fine."
"Now you tell me," Arjin thought in a joke.
"You'll be fine. I am a quick learner."
"I'm glad to hear it."
"Yes, you can come back. While I have time, I will lend you an hour a day," said Faile.
"I thought you were worried about too often?" though Arjin.
"This much should be okay and this practice will expand my abilities as well."
"It is strange I understand a little more, now only to realize that I understand almost nothing," thought Arjin.
"Yes. Our thoughts are not merged as one. I don't think a first lesson is best for that, and even then usually there is one that leads. Rowan and Deanna can share perfectly equally, but for most a hierarchy is established," thought Faile.
"Thinking back, I think Jadzia was worried for me. She honestly didn't think I was ready, and I begin to think she was right. Thank you. I guess we should stop this for now," thought Arjin.
Faile gently released him.
"Do you know what this means?" asked Arjin.
"Yes. You now have a path to understanding if you truly want this thing, and in time that path may be used by others," said Faile.
"You make me doubt my dream, only to possibly give me another. I think of all the initiates who seem like me, chasing a dream we barely understand."
"Do you regret it?" asked Faile curiously.
"No, I don't think I do. I want to go talk to Jadzia. Thanks. Will you be here tomorrow? I want to talk to Jadzia."
"I should be. Sela can likely contact me if need be, though again things may come up."
"I know. I thank you for your help. If you need help with something feel free to contact me. I owe you."
"I do not believe I will need help, but If I do, I will keep it in mind."
"Goodbye."
"Bye."
He turned only to see Jadzia at the door.
"Jadzia. I was just about to try to find you," started Arjin.
"Then take a seat and eat, or you will make Sela feel bad for wasting food," said Jadzia.
"That won't happen, though I did find the conversation enlightening," said Sela.
"Oh?" asked Jadzia.
"I'll let Arjin here explain," said Sela.
"Faile helped me, showed me what telepathy was like, and I wanted to, well at least tell you. You were right. I didn't know what I was asking for. Now I know a little more and I was thinking, can't this help other initiates?" asked Arjin.
"You mean a bit of telepathy so they have some concept of what they ask for?" asked Jadzia. Sela handed her a glass of tea that she thanked her for before drinking a bit of it.
"Yes. I mean, I know I still have no clue, but I at least know more of what I didn't know."
"Interesting. Why don't you write all this up? I'll review it and we will send it to the home world," said Jadzia.
Arjin looked in surprise.
"You thought what? That I'd take the idea, or that it wasn't new, or not good? This is the first thing you have done that has given me hope you might be ready for symbiosis eventually. See it through," said Jadzia.
"I will, though Faile did most of the work."
"I wish to read what is written. I may or may not contribute. It is an interesting subject," said Faile.
"It is. I still think Arjin will be better off with a bit more experience, but he is now focused in a constructive direction. Thank you for that Faile. I don't suppose you want to go to the Trill home world?"
"Pass. Teaching him is a good way for me to learn and perhaps study the effect I want to understand with my own people, but that is enough," said Faile.
"I think I should practice more as well, with this and other things," said Sela.
"Your always welcome," said Faile.
Sela nodded then turned to Jadzia and asked, "Did you come for another reason? You eat not that long ago."
"I actually got the computer to locate Arjin. I was thinking of taking a runabout and going to help out an Andorian cargo ship that is having problems. I figured I'd ask Arjin if he wanted to come along."
"Of course. I didn't mean to delay you," said Arjin.
"I'm more than capable of interrupting if I deem it urgent," said Jadzia.
Sela handed them meals, then brought another out for herself. They began eating. About half way through their dinners Jadzia asked him casually, "Did you still want to become a joined Trill?"
"I.. am not sure. I kind of wanted to explore this for now," said Arjin.
"That is a better answer. Anyone as certain as you were likely has no idea what they were getting into. You know I wonder if this all works out and we can teach all this, if it will prepare initiates more so their minds are not so overwhelmed," added Jadzia.
"So, the commission?" asked Arjin.
"I can delay a few days. Most likely I will recommend you remain in the program and be reevaluated in one year," said Jadzia.
"Thanks. You mentioned a mission?" he asked.
"Eat your food. Sela hates to cook. Then I suppose we will get you to sick bay, just to double check. Even without Faile's efforts, the Doctor would like a baseline for people that might be here awhile," said Jadzia.
"What makes you think I'll be here awhile?" asked Arjin in a confused tone.
"You mean your not looking forward to more of that? You certainly appeared to be enjoying it," mused Jadzia.
Arjin blushed furiously.
Faile smiled. "Changelings don't blush."
"Not fair," complained Arjin before he could think to censor his words.
"Do you see now Arjin?" asked Jadzia.
"I can't believe that. I don't act that way, yet it felt the most natural thing in the world."
"Yes, you didn't understand how a symbiote would affect you."
"The near term effects of the little we did should mostly fade within an hour or so, and I think your more like me than you will admit to, or at least have the potential to be," said Faile.
"Wait your saying that is affecting my responses?" asked Arjin.
"Examine them. Part is likely understanding. Part may be a little from Faile, right?" asked Jadzia.
"That was my guess," said Sela.
He looked thoughtful.
Jadzia turned to Sela. "Would you like to come?"
"Yes! Do you know how boring running this place is? I'm a Romulan Commander, not a cook. Sure the Empire thinks it is a valuable position, and it is, but other than when people come by it is utterly boring."
"I'll help you bring the food for our trip," said Jadzia with a smile.
"Thank you."
-=oOo=-
After a two day journey they arrived at the Andorian freighter Cerulean Star.
"Greetings Federation vessel. My name is Captain Shran. I am glad you were able to come."
"I hope you didn't have to wait too long. I'm Jadzia, this is Faile, Sela, and Arjin," said Jadzia.
His antenna twitched a little at seeing the Romulan. He said, "Not too long. In truth, I asked my government, but they are dealing with a crisis at the moment, so I can't blame them. My supplies are needed to treat the outbreak of Andorian Flu, but they are not as high a priority as all the rest that is needed."
"We will see if we can get you on your way, and go from there," said Jadzia.
"It is much appreciated."
Jadzia and Faile worked together to try to repair the system for hours, only for Jadzia to again look at her tricorder.
"It won't change the results. It says what it says," said Faile.
Jadzia nodded. "No, it won't. There are micro-fractures in the core. We can't bring your warp core online."
Shran sighed and nodded.
"Your secondary reactors are fine of course, but they will only sustain impulse speeds."
"The core itself needs replaced," said Faile.
Jadzia nodded.
"I do appreciate you for trying. Delivering this would have helped." He slapped his hand against the useless warp core casing.
"I could perhaps help, for a price," said Faile.
"Whatever I have," the Andorian said.
Sela looked at Faile curiously.
"I do not mean money. I mean we get you where you need to be and then you don't mention how we did it," said Faile.
"Deal."
Faile turned to the others. "Does anyone have an objection to taking some risks here?"
"Not if it might save lives," said Dax.
"I wish to see it, to help if I can," said Sela.
"We will try, carefully," said Faile.
Sela nodded.
"How can I help?" asked Jadzia.
"Let's make sure we are on a straight line course that is clear, and the main deflector is working, as best it can. We can probably do this in maybe three stops, I'm guessing," said Faile.
"I can do that. Shall we go to the bridge?" asked Captain Shran.
Faile nodded.
"I don't know what your planning, but whatever I can do..." offered Arjin.
"Do you have detailed knowledge of this quadrant?"
"Some, it is not extensive as Dax of course."
"It doesn't matter. I want to spend some time merged and I seem to merge easily with you. I need to learn this area now," said Faile.
"I also have such knowledge, if you wish," offered Sela.
"We need to see our route first, to see which knowledge applies," said Jadzia.
"Agreed."
-=oOo=-
They reviewed the maps on the bridge.
"I'm sorry. I can of course plot a course and all the rest, but I've never traveled that route. I have no special knowledge," said Arjin.
"I know the later half of it, for the most part," said Sela.
"FIrst two thirds more or less," said Jadzia.
"I obviously know it. Does that help?" asked the Captain.
"I'm new to telepathy. It is not personal but contacting minds of different species takes practice. I just don't want to add that complexity to this," said Faile.
"I understand."
"Captain, can you make sure she has as much electrical power as possible available. Straight high frequency alternating or direct current works, but generally you want very high voltages and a lot of potential sustained power," said Jadzia.
"Are you serious? That will kill her."
"I'm not going to touch it, not directly," said Faile.
"I'll be helping as well," said Sela. Faile looked at her for a moment then nodded.
"The Impulse drives draw power from separate generators that are accessible from main engineering. Between the two generators is approximately ten meters. Does that work? Is it what you wanted? I confess this sounds very odd," said Shran.
"That will work fine. Please make sure we can see the relative percentage we are drawing on. The power must remain stable. We can go slower."
"I don't understand, but I'll get it done."
They spent the better part of a half hour going over what they knew of the trip in detail and referencing the computer maps before Arjin, Faile, and Sela went down to the engineering section.
"Can I help at all?" asked Arjin.
"No, I hesitate to include anyone, but Sela has more potential than anyone else and we have reviewed the trip. I need Jadzia on the bridge. You can remain here for her to communicate to, if she can't reach us," said Faile.
Arjin nodded.
"How do we do this?" asked Sela.
"Are you sure you want to do this? We both have secrets and people to protect," said Faile softly.
"Then let's protect them. I've remember what Q showed us. That is not happening. I'm okay with dying for my people, if that comes. I will not run from it. I am not okay with not doing everything possible to prevent harm to my people, whether they approve or not. If we fight like happened in that alternate future, way too many of our people are likely to die. Let's find a path forward where that does not happen," said Sela.
Arjin looked on worriedly, stepping carefully back to give them what privacy he could.
"And if your government orders you to betray me?" asked Faile.
"I won't, though it would likely mean my death, I would at least try to fix things. Betraying you would not serve my people. War would break out, or in the worst case, even if it did not, it would weaken us leaving us exposed to monsters like the Borg."
"Strange, how patriots are not all that different even though our species are. I am not as actively involved in the military of my people, though I can be, at need. We have a deal, and a beginning. I will envelope you to maximize what we can do, then when done separate, okay?" asked Faile.
Sela nodded.
Arjin said softly, "In the last lorn fight against the fall of Long Night, the mountains stand guard and the guardians shall stand at ready. Thus is our treaty written; thus is agreement made."
"What was that?" asked Sela curiously.
"Me trying to come up with something fitting for the moment. It's from an old series of fiction books I read once, slightly mangled to try to fit the moment."
"It works. Thank you," said Faile before she held her hand out to Sela who accepted it. Her form then flowed smoothly over her enveloping her.
-=oOo=-
On the bridge the Faile merge sent Jadzia. "We are ready for the first leg."
"You can begin when ready," she sent back. Suddenly space vanished and they were in motion.
"What is this?" asked the captain.
"Very classified," said an amused and slightly worried Jadzia.
Two hours later they stopped and the merge slowly dissolved with Faile reforming.
"How are you doing down there?" asked Jadzia.
"Could be better, but it could be a lot worse. I'm going to return to the shuttle and rest. Please check over Sela. We will try to resume in the morning," said Faile
"Understood. I'm heading down there once we figure out where we are," said Jadzia.
"I'm heading to their sick bay with Arjin. Headache," said Sela.
"Then I'll see you there," said Jadzia.
Sela didn't respond.
-=oOo=-
Jadzia and Shran entered the sick bay about ten minutes later.
Jadzia walked over to where Sela was laying in the bed.
"How are you?" asked Jadzia warmly.
"Your doctor has not given me permission to continue, but may give me that permission tomorrow. It was, intense. I've never concentrated so long on a single task in my life, and it was both of us thinking as one, plus you could feel the torrent of power we were channeling," said Sela.
"But you will be okay?"
"If she rests as I told her to," said the Andorian doctor nearby.
"Good. Arjin?"
"Went to check on Faile."
"Ah, not sure she wants that, but okay," said Jadzia.
Sela shrugged.
"I'll get out of here and let you rest," said Jadzia.
"Thanks." Jadzia quietly walked out.
Shran moved over. "Thank you. This will help, though I'm curious why you both risk yourselves so?"
"I have no problem with helping, though if that was the only consideration, I might not have volunteered for this risk. It is a chance to support this Alliance and perhaps grow stronger. I can't past that up."
"Nevertheless, you have my thanks. I owe you both a debt."
"Perhaps I will have need of something reasonable one day. I wouldn't worry about it too much. As I said I am doing this for my own reasons."
"Then I too will leave and let you rest. I will thank Faile in the morning."
She nodded. He turned to his doctor. "Keep this whole thing safe somehow. We are already close enough I could possibly get someone to finally tractor us."
"I understand."
-=oOo=-
Arjin approached the shuttle only to hear softly in his mind. "There is no need to check on me."
"Are you sure?" he managed to send back.
"Yes."
"Is there anything you wish me to do?"
"Just rest and be ready in the morning."
Arjin seemed a bit sad when he turned, but he respected her wishes and walked away, returning to the bridge a short time later. Jadzia entered a few minutes afterwards.
"Was Faile okay?" asked Jadzia.
"She sent that she was fine from outside. I confirmed, then asked if she needed anything. She just wanted me to get some rest."
"Changelings do not like people to see them regenerate, or at least Odo doesn't. Don't worry about it. Had you not went, I likely would have gotten the same response."
Arjin nodded.
Shran entered.
"Can we get some quarters to rest?" asked Jadzia.
"Of course. Thomi. Will you find them what they require?" asked Shran.
An Andorian woman moved away from her station and said, "I'd be glad to. Follow me."
-=oOo=-
The captain almost cheered as they arrived just out system. He activated impulse engines and set the course for the final leg. Before too long everyone appeared on the bridge.
He turned to the pair that had done the work and said, "Thank you ever so much. Is there anything I can do to repay you?"
"Forget we are here. We are going to slip out with our shuttle," said Faile.
"Already forgotten, but again, you helped me out. If you need aid one day," said Shran.
Faile and Sela nodded.
"I did fake your logs a bit. They should hold up. They will think you were able to use warp drive to get here, and then noticed the crack," said Jadzia.
"Thanks."
They slipped out, doing their initial travel with Faile and Sela's help so as not to be noticed and then shifting to warp drive.
-=oOo=-
About a third of the way back Faile suddenly looked to her left.
"There is something there. Stop for a moment please," said Faile.
"Executing all stop," said Jadzia.
"Can you look around?" asked Faile.
"Doing sensor sweep. Can you tell me anything?"
Faile turned around slowly then back and pointed more back the way they came, but on the left side. "There is. Someone or something needs help I think. I do... I do not fully understand."
"Would you like to link with one of us and try to figure it out?" asked Sela.
"I've got a sensor contact maybe. It's nearly an hour off in warp drive. My guess it is a small ship, but there is not much there. I'd have probably ignored such sensor readings without what you said."
"Get closer perhaps, not right on top yet, but at least cut the distance in half?" suggested Sela.
"I certainly have no objection," said Arjin.
"Agreed," added Faile.
"Turning around and heading for it," said Jadzia.
-=oOo=-
Arjin merged with Faile to try to better interpret what she was sensing.
"It is a person, a human, we think," said Arjin from within the merge.
"A man, quite old, but perhaps not," Faile added.
"I'm going to take us the rest the way there, then when we get close slow down, unless someone has an objection," said Jadzia.
"No objection," said Arjin.
They got closer, soon coming up to a small craft, not much bigger than their own runabout. "No signals or power readings from the aircraft, except for what may be emergency life support," said Jadzia.
"Is there enough oxygen to go over there?" asked Sela.
"Minimal. I have the occupant. We need to beam him over here."
"Do it," said Faile.
An older man appeared barely breathing. Arjin pulled out a tricorder and began scanning. "Some kind of hibernation is may guess? What do you make of this Jadzia?" He handed her the tricorder.
She considered it fully for a couple minutes. "Seems reasonable to me and he seems to be recovering." Sela looked over at the readings and nodded.
The man blinked his eyes open a few minutes later and then looked around. "Who are you?"
"I'm Jadzia Dax. This is Commander Sela, Arjin, and Faile."
"A Trill, a Romulan, well half, another Trill, and a Changeling. What a curious group."
"You can tell what I am just by looking?" asked Faile curiously.
"I assure you my dear your shift is impeccable. I just am older than I look, and also have some latent abilities, though I was not aware your race had such."
"It's a relatively new development."
"So I see. I am Gary Seven. If you check your history files, I'm likely mentioned a few times."
"Are you really? I do recall a few instances, though I thought you were a Romulan," said Sela.
"Cosmetic surgery I'm afraid."
"I've also heard about you on Earth and on Trill, though you seem to go by other names in recent times, at least initially," said Jadzia.
"Yep, that's me."
"Is your ship repairable? It seems to be totally without power," said Jadzia.
"No, I had to jettison the core. It needs destroyed, but there is little of value there. It can't really be fixed, which is kind of annoying. Your ships are too slow to get me home anytime soon." He turned to Faile. "How are you here?"
"There is a recently discovered wormhole that connects the Bajoran system to the Gamma quadrant," said Jadzia.
"Well that is something. If I could use it, I'd be a third of the way home," he mused.
"I have no personal objection, though access is restricted by the Dominion and the Federation. We will require verification that you are who you say you are and have no intent to cause problems," said Faile.
Gary sighed. "I do not, but others may have missions."
"Why would they have missions?" asked Faile.
Gary hesitated. "Do you perhaps note anything now that I sense you have been out of your merge with the rest of your race for awhile?"
"Yes, I am aware of the loss of some of our individuality. It seems temporary, but is a growing concern."
"Are you also aware of the cure?" he asked curiously.
"Less time in the Great Link. Less than ten percent seems ideal, though the main thing seems to be to spend at least a couple weeks away a month."
"Well if you manage that, most likely the main reason for some of the upcoming missions would not be there, assuming any operatives actually are free to do them anyway."
"Do you believe those numbers are correct?" she asked curiously.
Gary shrugged. "A great deal is personal choice. Do you mind if I speak plainly?"
"I do not."
"It is easy to be in something like that, then only become concerned of something like that, because, to you, that is the universe. That was our main concern."
"I understand."
"Excellent." His stomach grumbled.
"We are pretty much out of the better food that Sela made, but we have a replicator," said Arjin.
"A Romulan commander made food? How interesting, but yes, I'll take whatever."
Sela rolled her eyes.
Arjin went over to the replicator and ordered a copy of what Sela made by hand, complete with the same tea he drank and handed it to Gary. He began eating.
"I'd like to taste the hand made version, if possible sometime."
"We shall see," said Sela.
"Are you really sure you want your ship destroyed? We are armed and can do it, but obviously we can't undo it if you change your mind," said Jadzia.
"Yes. That tech is protected pretty well, but I'm certainly not authorized to hand it over. Please destroy it."
"Very well." Jadzia got back in the pilots chair.
"Moving the ship to a safe distance. You have about thirty seconds to change your mind."
"I will not."
"Firing. Ship is destroyed."
"Thank you."
"Such a waste," said Sela.
"Yes, well we are still feeling our way due to telepaths like Faile there becoming more common, though I would have liked to see if anything there was useful against the Borg. Still, it was his right," said Jadzia.
"The Borg, ah yes, those abominations. I can't fight a war for you, but I can certainly help there somewhat," said Gary.
"If you really have such power, then why let them grow to the size they have?" asked Sella.
"We are not many. It is also vital they not absorb the few of the Guardians are left, or their technology."
"I see."
"Shall we head back to DS9? It is near the wormhole," said Jadzia.
"I need to talk to my people. Without the core that ship never could."
"The Rowan and the others might be able to reach out telepathically, if they are telepathic," suggested Faile.
"I don't know who that is. Group telepathy?" he asked curiously.
"Yes."
"They are telepathic, but not that strong. They would not be able to respond over such a distance, and we would have to try from near where this wormhole exits. They might hear enough to send a ship..."
"Again, I must urge great care in those who wish to pass. The Elder and the others do not wish travel. The only real exceptions that have been made are for defending against the Borg, and it seems they let the Skrreean's through, likely because it just didn't matter," said Faile.
"I'm a patient person. I'll wait as long as necessary for approval."
-=oOo=-
"Welcome to Deep Space Nine," said Riker to Gary 7 as they got out of the Runabout.
"I am glad you finally decided to help here. This was such a sad story."
"We should have done so long ago, but it meant a protracted war with the Cardassians which did not seem better. I'm not defending the decision, just explaining it."
Gary nodded. "Permission to come aboard and perhaps stay for awhile?"
"You will have to go through medical, but other than that, yes."
-=oOo=-
A couple days later Gary Seven walked about the Calliope with Riker. "This is an older model, is it not?"
"We have tinkered a bit, but yes. Given how seldom we need a ship it is hard to justify more than this, and we have upgraded her to have reasonable defense and offense. Some of that came at the expense of some normal secondary functions, but it is what we needed."
He nodded. "Tell me about these Skrreean."
"They hoped to settle on Bajor, but in the end the Bajorans could not agree. Bajor's one moon seemed ideal to us, but Bajor didn't agree, and they settled on Draylon II. Aldea has most of what they need. We answered a call from them awhile back and helped them out. Their automated infrastructure can supply a great deal, including food, and they agreed to help. Right now we are going to Draylon II to help pass what is needed. After that, we are going to pickup the Rowan and Faile on Aldea."
"Aldea. I was there once so very long ago. It will be good to see it again."
"That it will," agreed Will.
-=oOo=-
The Rowan and Faile sat side by side on custom chairs installed right in the main reactor room on Aldea.
"I love this place," said Faile.
"No kidding. There is more power here than I've ever dreamed to have available, and it is all perfectly suited for our use. Be careful, burning yourself is possible with such an excess," said the Rowan.
"And we also don't want to make it difficult for your family to catch. Even with Calliope's power systems they have but a tiny fraction of this," added Faile.
"Yes, that too. I think we could place the packages ourselves if we had to, but that would be seriously pushing our luck."
"What about the Borg? Could this kind of thing be built to better defend against them?" asked Faile.
"We will have to ask the Aldeans. I would greatly love to have duplicates of this at some key areas. If we could get to them in time, well it doesn't guarantee victory, but it would surely help a very great deal," said the Rowan reverently.
"This must become a high priority. If not a copy, then whatever we can do that is closest. I must go home soon and report this."
"Agreed. There are risks, but the risks of not doing it clearly seems greater."
"I will always bet on my family," said Faile.
"Of course. I did not mean to imply."
"I know and I understand."
The Rowan nodded.
A beautiful brunette walked in, a little child following close behind. "Are you well?"
The Rowan and Faile stood.
"We are Rashella. We will begin soon. We just discovered something we wanted to talk with you about," said Rowan.
"Of course."
"Your energy source appears to be very well suited for our task," added Rowan.
"Isn't that why you are here?" asked Rashella.
"Are you familiar with the Borg?"
"Yes, we have agreed to report all we find about them to work towards a common defense," said Rashella.
"This." The Rowan pointed to the great reactor behind them then continued, "This allows us to work at a level we have not thought possible. It would greatly help with such a defense, but also increase the power of those like us to a point it may cause some concerns."
"I believe I understand. You are of course welcome to come here and use it, if it helps during such an invasion."
"Believe me, we may take you up on that if you are anywhere near where the next invasion comes. We would, however, like to study some of this to see if we can duplicate at least the effect on other worlds."
"I shall have to talk to the others, though surely there is some agreement that can be reached," said Rachella.
The little girl got away from Rashella and ran forward. "Play with me?" she asked the Rowan and Faile.
Faile got down on her knees. "How about after we get our work done for today?"
"Promise?"
Faile nodded.
"Okay." She ran back to her mother.
"Do you require anything else?" asked Rashella.
"No, we are fine. Thank you," said the Rowan.
A few minutes later they said hello to Deanna and the rest of their family above Draylon II and began lifting and sending giant crates of material over impossible distances, all the while barely tapping the massive reactor's potential.
They worked for nearly six hours before they finished.
"We are deeply jealous about your position. We are exhausted here," said Deanna's voice still leading the merge on her end.
"We are also tired, but your right. Tell Will we brought up the topic of copying this, or the effect at least. There is no approval yet, but the conversation is opened. Faile wants to head to the Gamma quadrant to get them to begin building something."
"Understood. We will see you the day after tomorrow." The connection faded from their minds.
"We could have probably ported there, though I suppose we really need to discuss this here," thought Faile.
"True, and in an emergency I'd say sure, but with Deanna and the rest tired, us somewhat tired, well it isn't great. Our well's would get us there though."
"We should practice moving a pod without anyone to catch," added Faile.
"Agreed. It is the only possible solution to get someplace arbitrary in the absolute minimum time. We certainly can't propel a ship but a fraction of that rate. It won't work if the distances are beyond a certain point, though I can envision us making an emergency trip to the Gamma quadrant in a runabout in a far reduced time, if we absolutely had to."
"How long would that take?" wondered Faile.
"I don't know. A month maybe? I certainly don't want to try it without need."
"Agreed."
-=oOo=-
Jadzia and Miles stayed behind on Aldea to learn what they could learn. They planned to review their findings with the Aldean council and had promised not to use anything the council did not personally approve. The rest returned to DS9 and then after a twenty four hour stop to handle some issues went through the wormhole in Calliope, stopping on the other side as protocol demanded.
A Jem'Hadar commander immediately demanded to talk to them.
"Founder," he said as soon as he saw Faile.
Faile moved forward after Will's hand motion. "I am here to talk to the others. Please send a message and ask for instructions."
"At once Founder."
They got a message back almost immediately that the Elder was coming. They were to standby, unless it was an emergency. The Elder expected to arrive in four and a half hours.
-=oOo=-
Faile beamed over to the Elder's ship as soon as she arrived as per her request.
"Are they treating you well?"
Faile smiled. "Yes, they are fine. I wish to share with you a discussion we had on Aldea and our use of their planetary reactor system."
The Elder held out her hand. Their arms merged into one staying in a liquid state. They stood like that for nearly an hour. When they separated the Elder spoke again.
"You were correct to bring this idea to us. We did not know the limits of this. We do know there is an upper bound, but it is much higher than we thought it was. When do you think they will determine what is special about that reactor?"
"I do not know, but possibly weeks not months. There is also the issue of being sure they authorize our use of it. They somewhat fear we could use it for conquest harming those we control, but nevertheless understand the need. Remember I cannot lie, not in the merge. It is not possible, nor do I really want to."
"What would they agree to? I dislike having to make agreements with solids, but it is not as if we need this for other than the Borg."
"Most likely to use it as defense or to attack an enemy that truly represents an existential threat like the Borg. They would prefer an attempt to save the lives of the Borg, but do not see it as realistic, save perhaps in very unique circumstances. I should point out that one of the reasons they consider this, that we would likely approve of, is by returning the being to its natural state, we better learn how to counter their technology."
"We will of course not pass up a justified risk that increase our ability to protect our people."
Faile nodded.
"Do you have any more suggestions?" asked the Elder.
"I suggest we begin building our own solution. Perhaps it will be a waste, but I wish to be armed with all we can be armed with. I also ask we make plans for the Great Link within the next sixty days. I am certain what agreement can be had, will be had by then. Also make sure they agree to what you just said they would. I will wait here for you to confirm it."
"You could go and ask yourself," said the Elder.
"Perhaps another time. You should know that they approved of letting the Skrreean come to the Alpha quadrant, but did not that they disliked our rule enough to want to flee," said Faile.
"Why?" asked the Elder curiously.
"They value freedom a great deal. Would you like me to show you a bit of my understanding of it?"
"If you wish."
They merged once more, but for a shorter period this time. A couple minutes later it was over.
"I see and do not agree, but I see you are beginning to. I also see that you wish our people to leave the Great Link more. That you see gains from it."
"I do. I should also point out that we may be able to very slowly make some of our policies more in favor with these others, without significant risk to ourselves."
"Obedience is still required."
"I would contend that only in manners that may affect our security is obedience absolutely required."
"You will have a chance to present your thoughts the next time you attend the Link."
"Of course. I recognize I am one of many and that much may not be agreed with. Come to think of it, there is another issue to discuss."
"Odo," said the Elder.
"How can he have the loyalty we expect of our people, if he has spent so much time away?"
"You raise a good question. I will note that you seem to have given much of your loyalty to them."
"Not above my own. Never that. I simply do not see the need that there be open conflict between us."
"What is your goal for all this?" asked the Elder.
"My goal is always to be and do more than others, and for our people to be and do more as well. I see so much potential in our people. They too have great potential, and yes, there are many among them that waste it."
"And you consider the Great Link a waste?"
"No, never, but continuous, maybe. We have an idea of how to journey all the way from their station here with only one of their small craft, and no wormhole. It would still take probably a month or more. When was the last time we did something revolutionary like that? I was just part of shifting a massive amount of material to another planet. Has anyone else done anything so vast recently?"
"Surely this is because of the one from another universe," said the Elder.
"Yes, it is, but why? Look at the rate of technological development in their quadrant. It is a lot faster than our own. We were just farther ahead."
"They are also multiple factions barely at peace," noted the Elder.
"Oh, I quite agree. They quite agree. One of the biggest things we are working for is to make sure the peace lasts, and that means among us all. That doesn't mean anyone gives up on those basic principles. It's also why by making concessions where it does not matter is likely the best option."
"Explain that remark," said the Elder.
"Then I'll be plain. Perhaps there is a means to stop one like me from dropping bombs right in the middle of our people. We should likely try to find one, but right now there isn't, and they can be sent from a nearly impossible distance. I helped you remove the knowledge of where we live from my mind, so they could not know it, no matter what, but can secrecy protect us anymore? Our minds can be read. They know how. They haven't figured out Ferengi yet, but then they haven't seriously tried."
"You are saying they are an enemy?"
"No. I am saying we must prepare for the times we are in, not the times we wish we are in. This power will help defend us against the Borg, but we also must defend against it. Part of that is the event we have planned, but not all. Part of our defense must be, I think, peace. We must get along with the others, within reason."
"They are staying on their side,' said the Elder.
"And I believe they will for a long time, but likely not forever. They are explorers. They will eventually wish to explore here as well, and in time I think others will figure out a way to come here without the wormhole, as we sort of have. I do not speak of a current threat, but my duty is not to consider just tomorrow, but that of generations to come."
The Elder nodded. "We are preparing another place for after the event since we cannot have them know where we live. We will prepare more than one. Our people will be protected, by any means necessary. You wish the peaceful option, and if that is the most effective, long term, then I also agree. Additional preparation makes sense for the Borg in any event. You are doing a good job. Perhaps you will become Elder after I pass."
"I hope not."
"And yet you will do it if the Link asks."
"I will."
'Good."
-=oOo=-
Riker looked over to the suddenly pensive Faile after she returned. "Is everything well?"
"I just heard the worst thing I've ever heard in my life."
"Oh?"
"They threatened to put me in charge."
Riker laughed.
"Other than that?" he asked.
"I am doing my best. I have never lied where my loyalty was, if ever I was forced to choose. I believe the path remains good for keeping the peace. Nothing in just now makes it less likely, but you have to understand, this will not be easy. Your wish to have them treat everyone as an equal, is not going to happen anytime soon, no matter what I personally believe."
"We know. There is something else worth considering," said Riker.
"I already have and I agree. It is best to skip the step of conflict and have people of good intentions work matters out, but there are a lot of people without good intentions. You have had many periods in your history where it looked like your people would become one of those people."
"I'll be the first to say if anyone says Starfleet will always have the moral high ground they are deluded or lying. The path to a very much darker future is always nearer than we think. It is only constant vigilance that keeps it at bay. People like you and all the others and me I hope," said Riker.
"You might need us one day to save you from yourselves," said Faile.
"Yes, we might."
"Well hopefully we are in the shape on that day, or that day never comes," said Faile softly.
"Peace is a lot harder than fighting, but also a lot more rewarding, don't you agree?" asked Riker.
"It isn't a matter of agreement. Not really. We have seen the result of our foolishness. I have no intention of seeing it again," said Faile soberly.
Riker nodded.
-=oOo=-
Faile raised her eyes as she felt the rage and hate come from Rom's bar. The flashes of fake Romulans getting gutted didn't help. She wasn't very good at obeying all the rules, and did tend to keep a somewhat open mind, for her own safety, if nothing else. Rowan and Deanna did chide her for how far she went, but she knew they practiced a lesser form. Not intrusive, but not stupid either.
She walked quietly to where she knew the holosuites were and subtly checked around her with her power to confirm she wasn't being observed. She then silently popped inside the holosuite well away from the Klingon she sensed within.
He barely dodged a group of fake Romulans that lunged for him with blades.
"Computer freeze program," she said.
"How dare you interrupt the battle of Klach D'kel Brakt!"
She focused and the bottle of Breshanti ale vanished in his hand. He lunged for her with his bat'leth. She made the weapon vanish and then held him away.
"The weapon is in my quarters and will be returned when you are sober. I require you to explain your anger and rage to me before I will return it." He continued to struggle. She sighed and tapped the com badge they gave her.
"Faile to Odo."
"Odo here."
"I am in one of the holosuites in Rom's bar. A klingon is here that is dangerously inebriated and very angry. Please come here and deal with the situation. Me holding him does not appear to be helping with his anger."
"I'll be right there."
A couple minutes later Odo walked in. "Now, can you please explain this situation?" The Klingon had fallen asleep standing up.
"I sensed his anger and rage. Combined with his obvious inebriation, it seems unwise to ignore the situation, so I took a peek. He didn't seem to want to talk, so I teleported his alcohol into the trash. His weapon is in my quarters, though I can give it to you now. I did request he tell me why he is so angry before I returned it.
"Keep it for now, but do not damage it. Klingons can be very fussy about such things. How about porting us to my office? It would save carrying him."
"Sure." They vanished and reappeared in his office. Odo unlocked a cell and put him in it.
"When do you think he will wake?" asked Faile.
"In the morning perhaps. Do you know right before your call Rom called to complain about the same Klingon," said Odo.
"I see. I will come in the morning to ask my questions. His feelings were very strong."
"Your not shielding as much as they say you should," noted Odo.
"Probably not, though I did resist the temptation to read his mind."
"Was that because you really didn't want to, or because the idea of trying to focus on a drunken mind seemed unwise?"
Faile smiled. "Thank you for your assistance Constable Odo."
Odo harrumphed.
-=oOo=-
Faile arrived the next morning. Tirla was with her. She walked in at the same time another Klingon came in. Odo got up from his desk. All looked towards the cells.
"It seems our guest has three visitors. Do you want to all visit at once, or one by one?" asked Odo.
"According to the report you gave someone removed Kor's bat'leth," said the new Klingon.
"You must be Koloth. Yes, Faile here removed it. He was drunk in public with live steel. That is not permitted," said Odo.
"How did you get his weapon? Even a drunken Dahar master, is still a Dahar master."
"I used telekinesis. I caused him no harm. I also haven't reported it to anyone, well other than Odo."
"Who contacted me. I see. I have no objections. Open the force field."
Odo pressed several buttons and the force field was released.
"Koloth!" greeted a still seemingly partially drunk Kor.
"You disgrace yourself Kor. Stand straight and explain yourself."
Kor actually tried, but seemed to be having difficulty.
"If you will permit Tirla to touch you, she will try to remove the effects of the brandy," said Faile.
"Give me back my bat'leth."
"After you are sober and you explain the situation," said Faile.
"Fine," he snapped.
"Go on. You'll be fine," Faile said out loud, while keeping a light link to the young woman.
Tirla placed her smaller hand over his. The point where they touched seemed to glow for a couple minutes. She then stepped back.
Kor blinked and looked down at her in wonder. "Thank you," he said softly, but clearly meaning it.
"Want to head back and play with Mollie Tirla?" asked Faile.
"Yes please."
She vanished. Jadzia Dax walked in. "Kor, Koloth," she said in surprise.
"Who are you?" asked Kor in irritation.
"I'm Dax. I was once Curzon Dax."
"This does not concern you," said Koloth.
"I'll tell her anyway, and if you want your bat'leth back you will tell me. Now, explain," insisted Faile.
"Why are you interfering anyway?" asked Koloth.
"I have a Romulan friend. I do not excuse any actions they or you or anyone took in the past, but a drunken Klingon pretending to slaughter them annoyed me enough to investigate," said Faile.
"We have found the Albino," said Koloth simply.
Jadzia instantly paled.
"Care to let me take a peek, or do I have to learn it the traditional way?" asked Faile to Jadzia.
"It is a series of very unpleasant memories. I swore a blood oath to kill him. He murdered a great many children. He is a klingon we have been trying to find for some time, and I assume him being found does not mean easy to kill," said Jadzia.
"Indeed it does not, but we will end him!" half shouted Kor.
Odo harrumphed again.
"We will end him," insisted Kor.
"Okay, I think we need to discuss this and come up with a somewhat more suitable plan," said Faile dryly.
"We have a ship. We will go there and attempt to kill him," said Koloth.
"And does he have a ship?" asked Faile.
"He has at least four and dozens of warriors surrounding him," said Koloth.
"Okay, so how about we come up with a better plan?"
Kor laughed.
"She is right. I have no problem dying for a cause, but we need a better plan," said Jadzia.
"There will be no trickery. I will kill him myself and eat his heart!" snapped Kor.
"If you insist on these kind of rules, we may be able to clear the way for you," said Faile.
"That has potential. Him and two others against the three of us," said Kor.
"I will finish it, if you fail. I swear it," said Jadzia.
"We will not fail, but what of the others?" asked Koloth.
"We can probably port them to other ships, with minimal risk. I'd like the Rowan's backup, and Riker is not going to want surprised here," said Faile.
"No, he certainly would not. Perhaps the Federation would agree to help, if we agreed to try to spare the rest for the justice system," agreed Jadzia.
"Then speak to your masters. If you can aid us in our proper vengeance fine, but we will not wait overly long," said Koloth.
"Give me back my bat'lath," said Kor.
Faile turned to Odo.
"Weapons are not allowed except by security personnel. It will have to be taken directly to your ship and left there," said Odo.
"Agreed," said Kor.
Faile focused. The weapon flashed into existence just above her. She grabbed it in both hands, and then held it out to Kor who took it.
"That is a very useful ability," said Koloth.
"Yes, it is," agreed Faile.
"It has scratches," complained Kor.
"Given what I saw you were fighting in the holodeck, I'm surprised it isn't worse. I caused it no harm."
"You should not have used it to fight fakes. A cheap copy would have been more than sufficient," said Koloth.
Kor half grunted in agreement.