Usual disclaimers: Paramount owns everything, I own nothing, but I'm going to use their characters anyway. I have no respect for the thought police anyway. Have fun, and feel free to send me comments. I like getting e-mail, it keeps me busy.

HAUNTED PAST

"Major, I need to see you in my office, please." Sisko smiled at the young Bajoran from the top of Ops, while Kira frowned slightly then shrugged her shoulders and marched into the office. "Is everything ready for Minister Levan and his two aides?"

"Yes, I saw to the arrangements myself." Kira grinned bemused. "Captain, you're not still worried about Bajorans trying to kill the Cardassian ambassador are you?"

"No, but that's not the problem. I've just been informed that the Gul who's transporting them is an open opponent of the reconciliation between Bajor and Cardassia, and is quite vocal in telling the Detapa council exactly what he thinks." Ben's smile had disappeared during his speech, and he saw the expression of worry cross Kira's face too.

"We've had opposing Cardassian's here before." She shrugged again. "I'll alert Odo to be careful, and have extra security on standby, but he shouldn't be anything we can't handle."

"This Cardassian has threatened several times to re-start the war with Bajor, and has openly stated that he'd like nothing more than your head on his wall." A ghost of a grin sped over Sisko's face as Kira's eyebrows shot up in amazement. "He's also asked for my head as well, so don't be too impressed."

"Who is this person?" Kira was intrigued by the idea that she'd managed to annoy a Cardassian to that extent.

Sisko looked at his desk, then back at his friend, and suddenly found his mouth was dry. "Gul Socrat." He watched as all the blood drained from Kira's face, making her as white as a sheet, while an expression of sheer terror spread over the Bajorans face.

Kira's mind was in turmoil as she stared at the Human, the memories of Gul Socrat flooding back, and suddenly Kira was back in the refugee camp, only ten years old and screaming as she watched the Cardassian beat her father again and again, just for taking an extra slice of bread. More memories, of her father plotting to escape the camp to prevent the Gul from hurting her like he had so many other young girls, seeing her father carefully note the guards patrol times, and gathering extra food so they wouldn't starve in the hills around the camp. And the terrible secret that she'd never told him: That it was already too late.

"Kira?" Sisko shook his officers shoulder gently. She'd been staring out the window for several minutes without moving, and he was more than concerned now. "Nerys, can you hear me?"

Kira started at his touch and nodded, the colour coming back to her face. "Yes, yes I'm fine. It just caught me off balance, that's all." The woman stood but couldn't look at the man before her, just stared at the floor. "If there's nothing else, I have to go and alert Odo about Gul Socrat's arrival, and then see that Minister Shakaar's quarters are ready, he's arriving shortly."

"Kira," Sisko reached out to put a hand on Kira's shoulder, but she pulled away from him, "I know he hurt you very badly, and if you wish to be excused from these talks, I'll understand."

"No." The Major lifted her head for the first time, and Ben saw that the fear was still there, but so was her usual defiance. "I have to face my past, you taught me that years ago. What point is there in running from an enemy who can't hurt me anymore? Besides, this time, he's on my territory, and under my rules."

"As you wish. But don't forget that if you need to take a break, all you have to do is ask." Sisko stepped back and opened the door. "I'll leave the arrangements in your hands then. Dismissed, Major." As Kira left Ops, Dax glanced up at Sisko and nodded as he beckoned her in.

"How did she take it?" Dax had known about the upcoming shock for her friend, but the captain had insisted he tell Kira alone. "She seemed calm."

"Looks can be very deceiving." Ben steepled his fingers and looked thoughtfully out into Ops. "She remembered, for just a few moments. If I had my way, that would be all the time she would ever remember for, but I think that the next few days will the hardest Kira's ever had to face."

"The question is, will she emerge out the other side? Or are we going to lose her to the memories?" Dax was probably the only other person on the station who knew about Kira's experiences during the Occupation, and even after eight lifetimes, the Trill still shuddered at the stories her friend had told her. "This Gul stole her innocence when she was only eleven years old, Kira might not be able to cope with those kind of memories."

"I don't know." Ben stood and stared out into the stars. "But one thing's for sure; I'm not going to let her go without a fight."

Kira was drunk. This had been established about an hour before, by Quark on one of his frequent trips to her table with yet another bottle of Bajoran whiskey, considered one of the strongest liquors in the galaxy. So far, Quark had seen her dispose of seven pre-mixed bottles of whiskey, and it didn't look like she was about to slow down. Knowing Kira's ability to hold her drink, Quark knew he was in for a long night, and decided to do the only thing he could: He ordered his waiters to stop serving Kira.

This was not a particularly bright decision.

Exactly one-and-a-half minutes after she had been refused service, Kira had another three bottles sitting in front of her, the bar had a new decoration motif, the 'Brawl' look, and Quark was reconsidering his decision while he examined his torn jacket and the upturned tables. As he looked at his swiftly disappearing customers and the mess on the floor, Odo and a security team charged in.

"We were told there was a brawl going on." Odo looked around slowly, not noticing Kira's table in the corner. "I see you managed to end it, although I have to admit, I've never seen your customers not come back afterwards. Usually, they tell me it's thirsty work breaking up the bar." Odo's expression was one of smug satisfaction.

"It wasn't a brawl, it was a one-man demolition squad." Quark motioned towards Kira. "Or should that be one-woman?"

Odo glanced at Kira, then looked back at the Ferengi. "Kira did all this? By herself?"

"In around a minute flat. She's drunk, and since I doubt whether Captain Sisko would appreciate his First Officer being unfit for duty, I decided not to serve her any more whiskey."

"And she objected to your decision." Odo nodded sarcastically. "I hope you didn't hurt her, or I might have to charge you with assault."

Quark was set to explode. "ME hurt HER? I'm the one who's damaged! I want to press charges against her: Assault, wilful destruction of private property, loss of earnings, this list goes on!"

Odo watched the little man bounce up and down on his feet in anger, then turned to the security team. Picking out his two smartest fighters, he carefully walked towards Kira's table, and slowly sat opposite her. "Major, I'm going to have to ask you to come with me to the security office. Quark is objecting to what you've done to his bar."

Kira looked steadily at the man before her, then gulped down another whiskey. "Make me."

"I...beg you pardon?" Odo wasn't used to people questioning his 'requests', especially people who knew him.

"You heard me, make me." Kira was defiant.

"Very well." Odo motioned the two other officers forward, a Bajoran and a Human, then watched as Kira stood and promptly decked one of the officers. Odo and the other officer grabbed her arms, and dragged her to security office, with Kira kicking and fighting every step of the way.

Sisko and Shakaar were relaxing over drinks in the captains quarters when Odo called. "Captain, I'm sorry to bother you, but I need you to come down to the security office."

"Any particular reason, Constable?" Sisko didn't want to leave his guest just to be told it was a minor problem.

"I've had to arrest Major Kira. I think you should come down here."

Sisko and Shakaar stood. "Constable, the First Minister and I will be there shortly." Closing the channel, Ben smiled embarrassingly at the Bajoran. "I'm sorry this had to happen during your visit to the station. I'm sure there's an explanation, it's possible Kira is simply--"

"--Is simply terrified about Gul Socrat arriving tomorrow." Shakaar walked into the hall, followed by Ben, who nodded silently. "Captain, did you think that I wouldn't know about what that Cardassian did to Nerys?"

"I didn't know if she had informed you he was coming to the station." Ben didn't know whether to be embarrassed that he'd attempted to lie to the man, or relieved because Shakaar would already understand the situation. "We were only informed late this afternoon, and I haven't seen Kira since."

"Nerys met me at the airlock, but informed me that she was going to be busy tonight. Obviously she wanted to try and deal with this on her own." As the turbolift arrived on the promenade, Shakaar turned to Sisko. "Captain, I'd like you to release Kira into my care, if that's possible. I think the three of us should sit down and talk about the next few days."

"I'll talk to Quark. Knowing him, a few well-chosen words should make him realise Kira isn't entirely responsible." The two men entered the constables office, and a few seconds later, Odo entered through the side door that led to the cell block.

"Captain, Minister, Major Kira has put herself in a very compromising position tonight. She deliberately got drunk at Quark's, and when he refused to serve her anymore, the Major tore the bar apart until Quark gave her more alcohol. She then assaulted one of my security officers, and it's taken me three minutes to actually get her into a cell." Odo watched the man steadily.

"Constable, I have a feeling that that's exactly what Nerys was trying to do. Her pride won't let her request that she be relieved of duty during these talks, but if she gets drunk and works the bar over, then you'll have no choice but to charge her. And that would mean she would be exempt from any official duties while Gul Socrat is here." Shakaar smiled.

"A very good point, Minister. The problem is, I now have a bar-owner demanding he be allowed to press charges against Kira and that she pay him full resitution." Odo liked Shakaar, the man had a forthright manner that the Changeling admired in people.

"How much?" Edon wasn't a big spender, preferring to live a simple life, so he was sure his bank account could stand a little beating.

"Four bars of latinum. Quark has already added up the bill."

"Tell him to send me the bill, I'll pay." Shakaar knew the money would be well spent.

Odo thought about it for a moment then nodded. "I will inform Quark immediately."

"Good." The minister stood. "Is it possible for me to take Nerys back to her quarters now, or do you want to keep her overnight?"

"If she could leave, then I'd let her." Odo led them into the cells and pointed to the unconscious female draped on a bed. "But I don't think Kira's going anywhere tonight."

"Then perhaps we'd better leave her here, and talk about tonight tomorrow?" Shakaar looked inquiringly at Sisko. The Human nodded, Odo turned out the lights again, and the men left quietly.

Nerys groaned and tried to ignore what seemed to be small men with very large hammers beating an energetic tattoo in her spinning head. Sitting up unsteadily, the woman leant against the wall and tried to focus on the room surrounding her. The glare of the cell lights shot through her eyelids. Opening her mouth, she grimaced as nothing more than a croak came out, and tried again. "Odo."

The Changeling was in his office when a red light flashed on. The light was set up to alert him when there was movement in the cells, and today it told him that Kira was awake. Walking into the block, he smiled slightly at the Bajoran's obvious discomfort. "Good morning, Major. How are you today?"

Kira groaned and threw herself back onto the bunk. "I can't remember a thing from last night. Did I do anything I need to apologise for?"

"Not really. You just destroyed the bar, assaulted a security officer, and told me to 'Make you' come to my office." Kira groaned loudly and pulled her pillow over her head as Odo continued. "When we got here, you informed me that you didn't care about your career or what anyone else thought anymore. It took us three minutes to get you into a cell."

"Stop, please." The major stared at the ceiling, sobering up disgustingly fast. "Has Sisko requested my resignation yet?"

"No. When he and Shakaar dropped in last night," Odo paused at an even louder moan from Kira at the mention of her lover, "they decided to leave you here until you sobered up."

"How badly did I break up the bar?" Nerys didn't even want to imagine what her friends must think of her.

"Bad enough for it to cost four bars of latinum." Odo turned off the forcefield, and motioned towards the door. "I'm to escort you to the wardroom immediately. Captain Sisko, First Minister Shakaar, and Lieutenant Commander Dax are waiting for us there."

Kira pulled on her jacket and belt, and stumbled out the door towards the turbolift, with Odo beside her. "You make it sound like a formal hearing."

"It is." Odo felt Kira's eyes on him as they made their way to the wardroom, but he refused to say anymore.

Sisko toyed with a padd as he, Dax, and Shakaar waited for Odo and Kira. The officers were all sitting on one side of the desk, with Sisko in the middle. The Cardassian delegation wasn't due to arrive for another eight hours, and the group was hoping to have this matter dealt with by then. As Odo and Kira entered the room, Sisko stood and put on his most official face. "Major Kira, stand at attention. Constable Odo, please take up position behind her."

Kira swallowed tightly. The room had all the appearance of a charge hearing, and she had a horrible feeling that her actions were being taken far more seriously than she thought they would be. Standing opposite the Captain, she stared out into the stars.

"Major Kira Nerys, last night you brought shame and dishonour upon your friends, the crew of this station, and all Bajoran officers. Your conduct was both deplorable and unbecoming of an officer, and the fact that you deliberately set out on this course of action only makes a bad situation worse." Sisko could see that he was managing to put the fear of god into the young officer, and pressed on. "The charges against you are as follows: Two counts of wilful assault, brawling, drunkenness, and resisting arrest. Do you have anything to say in your defence?"

"No Sir." Kira swayed slightly, her balance still off. Sisko's voice was echoing through her head, and all she wanted to do was lie down and sleep for a year or two. "Anything that happened because of my decision is my own fault."

"Kira, for the Prophets sake, just tell the man what you were thinking!" Shakaar knew that, if there was one thing Kira was good at, it was self-sacrifice. "We know you did this because of Gul Socrat, but you have to say it officially."

"I can't." Nerys' teeth were clenched. She hated the fact that one single solitary Cardassian could still terrify her to drink. The group watched as Kira's expression told them that her pride was at war with her desire for understanding. Finally, the major bowed her head and nodded. "Yes."

Sisko let out a pent up breath. "I accept that as mitigating evidence in your defence. As a penalty, your pay will be docked to the overall value of two bars of latinum over the next ten months, to help cover the costs of the damage you caused Quark." Ben smiled gently. "Sit down Nerys. The five of us are going to talk about last night, and the next few days."

"There's nothing to talk about, sir." Kira sat down gratefully, while Shakaar handed her a glass of water. "I know that my behaviour last night wasn't what you expect from your First Officer, and I promise you it will never happen again."

"Nerys, that's not the point." Shakaar leaned forward intently. "The problem is that it happened at all. You need to start dealing with this, and as much as I hate to say it, I don't think you're going to have much choice but to start now."

"I know." Nerys bowed her head for a moment, then looked at the others. "I'll listen to whatever you have in mind."

"Good." Dax smiled warmly, and reached out to touch Kira's hands. "I think you need to start by telling us as much as you can about what happened between you and Gul Socrat."

The Bajoran nodded, swallowed tightly, and began.

"Deep Space Nine has given us docking clearance, Gul." A very nervous Glin half-turned from the navigation seat, and was glad that all the brooding officer did was nod at him. "Initiating docking procedure. All clear. We are fully docked, sir."

"Excellent. Alert the ambassador that we've arrived, and then inform their Starfleet Captain that we'll be coming aboard immediately." Gul Socrat stood and strode to the door. "The rest of you can have shore leave, except for skeleton crews. Let's show these Bajorans and Humans that we know how to enjoy ourselves as well."

Minutes later, Ambassador Levan and Gul Socrat stepped through the airlock and onto Deep Space Nine, to see Sisko, Shakaar and Kira awaiting them. Ben stepped forward and smiled. "Welcome to Deep Space Nine. I'm Captain Benjamin Sisko, commanding officer of the station, and this is my First Officer, Major Kira Nerys. May I also present the First Minister of Bajor, Minister Shakaar Edon."

"Captain, on behalf of the Detapa council, I'd like to thank you for you welcome." Levan smiled briefly at the Human, then turned to the two Bajorans. "Minister, your reputation precedes you, as a formidable opponent in both battle and at the negotiating table. I look forward to knowing you as a fellow diplomat."

"I look forward to helping Bajor and Cardassia join together as friends instead of enemies." Shakaar shook the ambassador's hand firmly as the man turned to Kira and bowed slightly.

"The indomitable Major Kira. I've heard much about you, mainly from the ex-Gul Dukat. He had the highest respect for you." Levan watched her carefully as Kira bowed back equally shallowly.

"I have the highest respect for Dukat as a fellow soldier. Such words are high praise." Nerys stepped back and motioned towards the corridor. "If you will come this way, I'll show you to your quarters."

"No welcome....Major?" Socrat watched Kira's expression as she stared at him without emotion.

"On behalf of Bajor and the Federation, I welcome you and your crew to the station. We have various facilities aboard the station that your crew are free to use if you wish shore-leave. A transcript of all station regulations will be transmitted to your ship, and we request that your people follow those regulations." Kira's monotone voice was confusing the Gul more and more. "If you'll come this way...?"

"Of course, Major." Ambassador Levan beckoned his two aides forward and looked curiously at the Gul, who was staring at Nerys. "Captain I have to say, I like this colour scheme."

"Being a Bajoran station now, we've tried to make this a more friendly environment for the families living here." Sisko was glancing between Levan and Kira, who was bringing up rear behind Gul Socrat. The woman was keeping an open expression on her face, and it didn't change when they reached the allocated quarters. "We have set these quarters aside for your stay. I hope they will be acceptable?"

"Of course Captain." Levan nodded and smiled, a rather scary experience.

"I would like to extend an invitation for you to attend our banquet tonight in the wardroom, Ambassador." Sisko turned on his most charming smile and wasn't disappointed.

"Of course Captain, we'd be delighted. Shall we say around nineteen hundred?" As Ben nodded, Levan bowed again. "Until then, Captain, Minister."

Watching the Cardassians leave, Sisko turned to Shakaar, who was standing next to the zombie-like Kira. "Let's go." Minutes later, they hurried into the infirmary where Bashir and Dax were waiting. "Okay Julian, turn it off."

Bashir picked up an instrument and turned to Kira as a nurse led the woman to a bio-bed. "This was supposed to be turned off five minutes ago. What held you up?"

"Gul Socrat demanded a personal welcome by Kira." Shakaar stroked his lovers hand gently. "I don't think I've ever seen a more confused Cardassian."

"I'm not surprised." Bashir was concentrating on the small electronic device clipped onto the back of Kira's neck. "A neural inhibitor can have some very strange effects, aside from the extreme docility of the subject." A small click, and he stood up. "It's off. She should start to come out of the stupor now."

"Wha...?" Kira blinked like she'd just woken up, and tried to stand, but fell to the floor as her brain tried to re-adjust. Catching her, Shakaar lifted the woman back onto the bed as Bashir and the nurse began to scan her.

"How much do you remember?" Edon's face showed his concern, as Dax and Sisko looked on anxiously.

"Not much." Nerys closed her eyes. It made it easier to think. "I remember watching them walk through the airlock, and the usual welcome to the station. Then something to do with Socrat, but nothing after that."

"The inhibitor worked well, but I don't want to try it too often." Julian glanced at Sisko sternly. "Once, maybe twice more, but that's it."

"Understood. Will the memories come back?" Ben smiled at Kira encouragingly as she looked at him.

"Within a few hours Nerys should remember everything from this afternoon, but I'd like her to get some sleep before the banquet tonight." Julian finished scanning Kira and nodded to Shakaar. "Minister, she's all yours. Just make sure that she sleeps."

"Don't worry, I'll see to it, if I have to lock her in." The man wrapped an arm around Kira's waist and helped her stand. "I'll see you tonight, Captain."

Sisko nodded and watched the two Bajorans leave then turned to Dax. "Come on Dax. We've got a lot of ground to cover before tonight."

"Socrat, how do you know the major?" Minister Levan relaxed in a chair, and watched the Gul carefully. "You obviously know each other, but she barely acknowledged your existence."

"I met the major when she was a child, and I was a Glin at a refugee camp on Bajor." Socrat was staring at the floor, remembering the past. "You know how I feel about Bajor, about what we gave up because of a few problems. The Major was one of those problems."

"I see." Levan clearly didn't, his expression still confused. "However, I don't care what kind of 'relationship', you used to have with this Bajoran. We are here to continue building a trusting co-existing friendship with our former enemies, and I expect every single officer, including you, to set the highest standard of behaviour while we are here."

"I understand." Socrat leaned back and steepled his fingers. "I assume you want me to sit in on the talks this week?"

"Yes, but only on one condition; That you do not attempt, in any way, to circumvent my work." Levan stood and smiled pleasantly. "I trust you will have no problems fulfilling my request?"

"None at all, Minister." Radon walked to the door, but half-turned before he left. "I can assure you, I will do nothing that will damage Cardassia." Nodding, the man stomped out of the room, leaving Levan to shake his head slowly.

"Nerys, you don't have to do this." Shakaar adjusted his jacket and turned to face the woman sitting on the couch, drink in hand and a determined look on her face. "You can back out any time you want." The evening was to be an informal affair, with Benjamin ordering his crew into civilian dress so as to seem as relaxed as possible in front of their guests.

"I know, but I have to do this, it's important." Kira continued to stare at her drink as the man sat beside her, placing a hand gently on her shoulder. "I remember every detail of what happened this afternoon now, and I think I can survive a few hours with plenty of other people around," she reached out and hugged Shakaar tightly, "Especially you."

Edon laughed and tousled his lovers hair lightly. "I'll be here for as long as you want me to stay." Kissing deeply, they lost themselves in the moment, before Shakaar stood and pulled Kira to her feet, as she brushed straight her light green dress. "You look beautiful."

"You always say that. I think I could wear a brown sack, and you'd tell me I look beautiful." The woman smiled lightly as Shakaar took her arm and they strolled towards Sisko's quarters.

Captain Sisko looked around approvingly at the various groups of Starfleet and Bajoran officers who had chosen to come to the banquet that night. Many of the stations most important Bajorans were present, including Vedek Tolsa, the stations leading monk and most deadly Springball player. He and Kira were constantly vieing over top spot on the stations competition ladder.

"Captain, I must return to Ops." Worf stood before his Captain, and seemed to be faintly pleased with escaping the upcoming party. "My shift starts in a few minutes."

"Of course, Mr Worf." Ben knew the Klingon hated diplomatic functions, and had been looking forward to seeing how he coped. Watching the man stride out of the room, Sisko grinned widely as he saw Edon and Nerys enter, arm in arm, a shy grin on Kira's face, and a broad smile on the man's, like he was simply out for an evenings dinning with a beautiful lady on his arm. Coming over, Ben bowed slightly. "I wasn't sure whether you'd be joining us tonight, Nerys, but I'm glad you have. I'm beginning to think I should put on some music and ask you for a dance."

"Careful Captain," Shakaar glanced at Kira for a moment, "Any more comments like that, and I might begin to think I've got competition." The three people laughed for a moment, and Kira finally lost her shyness.

"I had to come, it's something I need to do." Hearing the door chime behind her, she smiled as Dax and Julian entered the room, with Odo, Chief O'Brien and Keiko not far behind. Dax's eyebrows shot up, and Julian whistled appreciatively as they saw Kira.

"Nerys, you never cease to amaze me." Tucking the woman's hand firmly into hers, Dax led the Bajoran over to a chair, getting them a drink on the way, as the men stood and talked quietly, Keiko joining Kira and Dax.

"How is she?" Julian was concerned about the woman, but she seemed to be holding up well, not least of all because she had all her friends support, especially Shakaar's.

"Kira's still standing, like she always does." Edon sipped his drink, glancing occasionally at the two woman across the room. "But let's see how she is at the end of the night, after Gul Socrat has talked with her." The men had wandered over to the ladies, but the group froze as Gul Socrat and Minister Levan walked in, accompanied by their respective aides, and Socrat's First Officer, Glin Tasop.

"Captain, this station is truly amazing." Levan had spent some time walking around the promenade, enjoying the sights and the bustle of the station's lifestyle. "The last time I was here, things were very different."

"I'm sure they were, Minister." Benjamin motioned towards his officers and nodded. "Please, allow me to introduce my command crew. You already know Major Kira Nerys, and of course, the First Minister of Bajor, Minister Shakaar Edon. My Chief Science officer, Lieutenant-Commander Jadzia Dax, our Chief of Operations, Miles O'Brien and his wife Keiko, Security Chief Odo, and Doctor Julian Bashir, Chief Medical Officer."

"I'm honoured to meet all of you." Levan bowed slightly, as did the others. "I hope that we can all learn to live as neighbours in this corner of the galaxy." Turning, he indicated Socrat and the other officer. "This is Gul Socrat, Commander of the First Order, his First Officer, Glin Tasop, and my two aides, Garad and Fotin."

Socrat was staring at Kira, literally unable to take his eyes off her, and had to be nudged by Levan to bring him back to reality. "Captain, my crew already tell me that they're enjoying shore leave. Apparently your barkeep still has several Cardassian holoprograms from the...before we left, and my crew are very impressed with them."

"I'm glad Quark is providing his usual excellant service." Sisko felt a shiver go up his spine as he imagined what sort of holoprograms a Cardassian might enjoy.

"Dinner is served!" Quark swept into the room, closely followed by several Ferengi waiters carrying plates piled high with various foods from Bajor, Cardassia, and Earth. "Captain, I thought you might want a little of everything, so I brought all types of dishes up."

"Quark, you've outdone yourself again." Ben watched carefully as the waiters carefully put down the plates, then began passing around drinks, as the various people within the room gathered into groups, the Cardassians mainly talking to the Humans rather than Bajorans.

"Captain, can I have a word with you?" Gul Socrat had what passed for a charming Cardassian smile on his face, as he led Sisko to a corner. "I may have the wrong woman, but your Bajoran, she is from Dakhur province isn't she?"

"She's not my Bajoran, and yes, Dakhur is her home, as it is First Minister Shakaar's." Ben's eyes flickered over the mans expression, and he was pleased to see the confusion there. "Gul, Kira is well aware of who you are and that the two of you have...met, several years ago, as are the rest of the command crew. I can't make her speak to you, nor would I wish to."

"Captain, it sounds like you don't like me, even though we've never even met before." Socrat stared at the Human unblinkingly, but wasn't rewarded with a bite, Sisko's voice remaining even and controlled.

"You have spoken out many times against the peace treaty between Bajor and Cardassia, and it's common knowledge that you have publicly stated that you want to present both Kira's head and mine to the Detapa council." Ben looked around the room, then back at the Cardassian.

"Captain Sisko, I am here on a diplomatic mission under the command of Minister Levan." The Gul's eyes were burning with fire as he continued to stare at the man. "Anything between the wench and I is our business. I have no interest in you, only in Cardassia's relationship with Bajor. If you'll excuse me, Captain?" Turning on his heel, the man marched off to a corner and sulked, while Dax wandered over to Benjamin.

"I take it our visitor isn't enjoying his stay?" Jadzia smiled slightly as Ben sighed and nodded.

"He called Nerys a 'wench'." Sisko glanced at Dax and saw her mouth snap shut, as her shoulders began to shake with muffled laughter. "I know, I know. If he calls her that to her face, I don't want to be around for her reaction either."

"We'd better warn Shakaar to keep a close eye on Kira when the talks aren't in progress and she's not on duty, otherwise we could have a very nasty mess on our hands." The two officers made their way over to Kira, who was busy setting up a rematch with Vedek Tolsa, since he'd won the last springball game between them. "Nerys, can we talk to you for a moment?"

Kira looked at Sisko and Dax for a moment, then bowed to the Vedek, before moving away. "I saw you talking to Socrat, Ben. What's he said?"

"This is going to sound like I don't trust you, but from this moment on, I don't want you to talk to Gul Socrat alone at any time. He's made several comments that are deliberately designed to provoke you, and I don't want him to have any chance of doing that." Sisko saw the Bajoran's eyes tighten slightly, but knew she understood.

"Of course. I don't want to talk to him anyway." Kira glanced at the Gul, and saw him watching her intently. Shivering, she looked back at Sisko. "I like this dress, Bareil bought it for me, and Edon likes it too. But now, it doesn't feel comfortable anymore. I wish I'd worn my uniform."

"Nerys, you are a beautiful and elegant lady." Ben was holding her hands tightly, knowing she was upset, but also that there wasn't a lot he could do about it. "Don't ever think you're anything else, not even in uniform. And since the men you care about like to see you like this, then don't let any Cardassian Gul make you feel different."

Nerys shook her head slowly, still unsure of herself, but looked up as an arm snaked around her waist, seeing Shakaar standing beside her.

"Captain, is there a problem?" Edon had been keeping a close eye on who had been approaching his lover, and had already headed off Socrat's First Officer.

"Gul Socrat has informed me that I am to stay out of any discussion he might want to have with Kira. I have no intention of giving him that chance, so I'm putting Kira under guard until Socrat leaves." Sisko saw Kira open her mouth to argue, but raised his hand before she could speak. "That's an order Major. He's threatened you publicly already, so this is a legitimate security decision." Ben noticed that several people were looking their way and stepped back. "You've been here for two hours now Nerys, why don't you go back to your quarters, and I'll see you tomorrow morning in Ops?"

"Alright. But only one security guard, and only when I'm off duty. Okay?" The major looked steadily at her commander, and was rewarded with a nod. "In that case, I'll say goodnight. Edon, I'll see you later."

Sisko beckoned Odo over and waved towards Kira. "Constable, escort the major back to her quarters, and then place a guard on her whenever she's off duty, until Gul Socrat leaves the station."

"I take it anyone but the Gul is permitted to visit her?" The man knew that Kira would hate every minute of the next few days, but it was for her own safety.

"Make sure to check with Kira before allowing them in, that's all." Sisko nodded towards the door. "Goodnight, Major. Try to get some sleep."

"Don't worry sir, Julian's given me a delta-wave inducer for the nightmares. I'll be asleep within the hour." Bowing slightly, the Bajoran smiled slightly as Odo took her arm, and they left.

"Captain, should I be feeling jealous?" Shakaar glanced at the man, and was glad to see a broad grin splitting his face.

"Minister, everyone within the command crew cares about Nerys, and I can tell you that you are a very lucky man." Ben looked firmly at the leader, before they both went back to playing diplomat.

"Minister, the simple fact is that Cardassia has a prior claim on these outposts, and our people colonised them before Bajorans did." The two leaders had swung straight into arguing out the most difficult topics first, knowing they would be the areas to take up the most time. "We should be allowed to re-take control of them."

"And then I end up having to send the Bajoran Militia in against my own people, just like the Federation has had to do with the Maquis." Shakaar shook his head and leaned back in his chair. "I won't risk having a full scale war on my hands just to satisfy your council."

"Minister, the fact is that most of the colonists out there used to be in the resistance, and there is no way they will accept Cardassian rule again." Kira had agreed to help Shakaar and his aide, Shervas Rem, in their talks with the Cardssians as a representitive of the Bajoran military and the Bajoran outposts. "Besides, with the Klingon's take-over of several Cardassian colonies, if we hand our outposts over to you, the Klingons might see that as an open invitation to steal the colonies, thereby giving them a military presence far closer to Bajoran space than I want."

"There is no evidence that the Klingons will venture this far into Cardassian territory, just to take four unimportant colonies." Gul Socrat watched the Bajoran woman opposite him unblinkingly. "We will take good care of the Bajoran colonists at our outposts, trust me."

"Trust you!??" Kira exploded as she slammed her hands on the table and leaned across to glare at the man. "I trust you about as far as I can spit. And I never learnt to spit!"

"Sit down, MAJOR!" Shakaar spoke firmly to the woman and she slowly returned to her seat, still glaring at Socrat. "Minister Levan, the Major has a viable point. I cannot risk the Klingon Empire taking a further interest in this sector, especially with the Bajoran economy still so weak. Aside from all that, I will not hand over the lives of over four million Bajorans into Cardassian rule."

"Then perhaps you are not as serious about these talks as you said you were." Levan stood sharply, and tossed a data padd onto the table. "Here are all the topics I wish to discuss with you during these talks, as well as Cardassia's stand on those topics. I shall be here again in three hours." Finishing, Levan and his aides left, but Socrat stayed behind.

"Minister, I suggest you take a long look at Minister Levan's requests. You will find that they are not so difficult to accede to." The man stood and turned away, but glanced back at Kira for a moment. "Major, perhaps you would join me for lunch, and we could talk about the proposal for joint military operations between Bajor and Cardassia?"

"I am very busy today, but I will keep your suggestion in mind." Kira wanted to punch the smug expression off Socrat's face, but managed to keep her temper under control. Socrat smiled even wider and left, as Nerys leant back in her seat and sighed.

"Mining rights in Bajoran space, full control over the four outposts along the border, unrevokable access to DS9 at all times and a small garrison to be stationed here to assist in guarding the wormhole. Minister, these demands are unacceptable." Shervas was reading through Levan's padd and shaking his head at the words there. "If you agree to this, you'll be known as the man who delivered Bajor, the Wormhole, all Bajorans everywhere, and the Prophets back into slavery." Shervas threw the padd onto the table and looked sternly at Shakaar. "You cannot agree to this."

"I have no intention of agreeing, Shervas." Shakaar was reading the padd himself, and slowly smiled at the requests. "Obviously the Cardassians want to get back the land they lost to the Klingons by taking it from Bajor. Kira, what would happen if I gave these outposts back to Cardassia?"

"You'd be hung in the square of remembrance in the Capitol, and small children would use your name as a swear word. That's just before I'd have to go and kill lots of Cardassians to get the outposts back under Bajoran control." The major spoke firmly as she looked at Shakaar. "I'd also have to place you under arrest for treason."

"That could put our relationship under a great deal of strain." Edon smiled brightly at Kira, and was rewarded with a grin. "Shervas, you and I will have to go over this and compare it to current Bajoran policy. There might be a way we can agree to some of the proposals and at the same time, get something for Bajor in return."

"Like an Orb?" Kira saw the window of opportunity a split second before the others. "If you agree to a minor concession, then perhaps Bajor could reclaim another Orb."

"It is a possibility, Minister." Rem glanced over the proposals again, and pointed at one of them. "This request for the joint military operations with Bajor. If we create a mutual defence pact, then we'll have an excellant case for the return of one, possibly two more Orbs."

"The problem is that the Klingons might not like the idea of Bajor and Cardassia helping each other, and that could create other types of problems." Kira stood and transferred the information from Levan to her own padd. "I'll have to go and see Sisko about this anyway, while you two discuss their demands. I'll be back at fourteen hundred." Opening the door, Kira grimaced at the security guard waiting for her, and she stomped off to Ops.

Shakaar and Shervas grinned at each other, then got down to the serious business of what was and wasn't acceptable to Bajor.

"So how do you feel about Bajor and Cardassia fighting together?" Sisko placed the padd on his desk and watched the young Bajoran sitting in front of him carefully. "Could you work along side the Cardassians?"

"I don't know--yet." Kira gazed openly at her captain. "I've worked with several Cardassians now, including Dukat, and it hasn't been the disaster that I thought it would be. But they were individual people, not groups, or on warships. That might be a bit much yet."

"Then we'll have to make sure that both peoples are eased into this arrangement Nerys." Ben nodded and smiled at his friend. "Tell Shakaar I'll support this plan, and I'm sure that it will receive the full and unhindered support of the Federation. This kind of co-operation can only help Bajors application for membership."

"Save the speech Ben, we still have to sell the Cardassians on the idea. But there is one thing you can assist us with; We're going to use this as a bargaining chip and try to get one, hopefully two, Orbs returned."

Sisko's eyebrows shot up in surprise. "Your First Minister thinks quickly for a man who's only new to politics."

"Edon always learnt fast." Kira grinned cheerfully and stood. "I'll let him know that you'll support the idea, and I'll emphasise the same thing to Minister Levan."

"Kira," the Bajoran turned back from the door, "How are you coping with Gul Socrat?"

"He's invited me to lunch, to discuss the mutual military support program." The woman grimaced. "I've told him I'm too busy."

"If there are any problems, inform me immediately. Dismissed." Sisko watched the officer leave Ops, before returning to his paperwork with a smile on his face.

Shakaar groaned and threw himself onto the couch as he entered Kira's quarters after another days negotiations with Levan. The two ministers had been trying to hammer out a workable arrangement between their two races, a task that was proving extremely difficult.

Kira looked at the man on the settee, and silently handed him a drink before sitting down herself. "You look exhausted."

"Are all negotiations with other people this difficult?" Edon felt Kira's hands begin to gently kneed the tight muscles in his neck, relaxing him slowly. "I feel like I've been in there for a month instead of three days." He sighed. "Even the Federation team wasn't this bad."

"Humans are different, they think they know what's best for all. The Cardassians are scared that one day Bajor will be stronger than they are, and that we'll retaliate against them for the Occupation. So they're trying to keep pace with us, and make sure that whatever we do, they have the same technology." Nerys could feel the muscles loosening up, and smiled slightly as Shakaar leaned back into her.

"You know, you might have something there." Edon was feeling very relaxed, not that he wanted her to stop. "When did you become so smart anyway?"

"You forget that I've been doing this for five years now, and I understand a little better how other races think." Kira sat back as the man turned to face her, and put on her serious lecture face. "Humans, as a general rule, believe that they know what's best for everyone. They'd rather err on the side of caution than go overboard, that's why they have their beloved 'Prime Directive.'"

"The same regulation that stopped them from helping Bajor during the occupation?" Edon grimaced as Kira nodded. "I don't like those kind of rules."

"That regulation also prevented Sisko from having to hunt us down during that incident with the soil reclamators. Ben told the Kai that he couldn't interfere with internal Bajoran affairs by using Starfleet officers to track us down, because of the Prime Directive."

"Well, I suppose they have their place," Edon grudgingly admitted, "But that doesn't mean I have to like it."

"You think they're bad? Try talking to Klingons. They believe in living with honour, and dying in honourable combat, and anything in between is simply to fill up time until they can bring glory upon themselves and their Empire. Trying to talk peace to a Klingon is like trying to discuss ethics with a Ferengi."

"And what's that like?" Shakaar was sitting cross-legged, grinning.

"Terrible, no common ground at all." Kira stood and nodded towards the door. "You'd better go, it's been a long day and you'll need your sleep for tomorrow."

Edon stood and nodded, but before Kira knew what was happening, she was lying flat on the couch, her lover kneeling over her and a smile on his face. "You know, sometimes I sleep better with company than alone."

"I see." Nerys hands had started moving, taking off Shakaar's jacket as his undid her belt. "Well, I can always stand a little company, especially since we've been behaving ourselves ever since you arrived."

Shakaar stood and picked up Kira as she wrapped her arms around his neck, and chuckled. "Computer, secure door and turn off lights."

Socrat strolled along the Promenade, looking specifically for one person--Major Kira Nerys, a young woman who had a lot to answer for, not the least being how she'd escaped from the refugee camp she'd grown up in. Seeing the woman on the top floor of Quark's, Socrat entered through the lower door, and climbed the internal stairs, avoiding the lone security guard watching the upper door. "May I have a seat, Major?" The Cardassian enjoyed the look of surprise on Kira's face as he stood before her, and knew that the guard would pay for her negligence.

"Actually, I'm just on my way back to Ops." Kira stared at the man and stood, but before she could move, his hand was on her shoulder, firmly pushing her back into her seat.

"I was hoping we could talk about the...proposals we have asked of your people." Socrat took the chair opposite Kira's and glanced at the deputy. "Perhaps without your friend present?"

"She stays." Kira nodded at the Bajoran officer, who sat at the next table and glared at the Cardassian's back. "What is there to discuss? Bajor has tentatively agreed to joint exercises between Cardassia and Bajor, provided another two Orbs are returned to Bajor. But we have no intention of handing over those four colonies you want, nor will we agree to allowing Cardassia to set up mining stations within Bajoran space. And the idea that we'd ever allow a Cardassian garrison on a Bajoran station is insane."

"Then since you insist on only holding to the letter of the treaty, and not the spirit, perhaps we should ask that all Bajoran war criminals be handed over to us for trial." Socrat's smug expression grew even wider as he realised Kira had no idea what he was talking about. "You didn't know? I would have thought that the Kai at least would have told you that that was part of the agreement. Cardassia agreed not to pursue the extradition of any of Bajors war criminals, and Bajor agreed to not pursue any Cardassian war criminals."

Kira sat as still as stone, her mind buzzing. She knew that there were aspects of the treaty that Bareil had never told her about, but it had never crossed her mind that this would be one of them. Slowly, her eyes met Socrat's, the fear she felt showing plainly. "I'm on that list."

"I know. So, unless you convince your leader to accept our demands I'm afraid I'm going to have to arrest you for war crimes. And since this is a Starfleet post, all I have to do is prove you killed just one Cardassian civilian, and we have every right to take you back to Cardassia." Socrat stood and made to walk away, but leant down to Kira's ear for a moment. "Of course, if you'd like to...renew our relationship before it comes to that, I can possibly persuade Minister Levan to encourage the council to accept just the one proposal, and to drop all others. After all, either way, we'll be seeing a lot of each other soon." Socrat strolled passed the guard and back towards his quarters, leaving a very shaken Bajoran behind him.

"Would you like another synthale, Major?" Quark appeared at Kira's elbow, saw the expression on her face, and sighed.

"Two bottles of whiskey, Quark. And keep 'em coming." Nerys stared into her glass, and tried to work through what the Cardassian had said without going insane.

Shakaar hummed quietly to himself as he re-read the data padd he was holding, and tried to ignore his aide, who was staring at him intensely. Finally, Shakaar sighed, put down the padd, and stared fixedly at Shervas. "Alright Rem, what's on your mind?"

"Minister, I'm concerned about your private life." The Bajoran didn't quite know how to approach the problems on his mind. "Your relationship with Major Kira could be used to compromise you politically."

"How?" Edon had been expecting this for the last year. His only surprise was that it had taken the man this long to bring it up.

"People might suspect that your impartiality is compromised as far as military and civilian rights are concerned. You could be accused of supporting the military viewpoint if push comes to shove with this idea about joint operations. Many Bajorans won't understand why we should share anything with the Cardassians, let alone help protect their borders."

"I know that there will be problems, but I don't think my love for Nerys will affect anything I decide here." Shakaar sipped his coffee and tried not to remember the previous night, knowing full well that he'd just grin stupidly for the rest of the afternoon if he did. "Besides, I think that the council will approve of these arrangements, especially if we can bring back two more Orbs with us." Hearing the door open, Shakaar smiled as Captain Sisko entered the wardroom. "Captain, how can I help you?"

"I was just wondering how the talks were progressing." Ben sat at the head of the table and steepled his fingers thoughtfully. "After reading all the demands from the Cardassian government, I thought you might like to hear the Federation viewpoint on what they've requested of you."

"Of course." Shakaar leaned back and watched the Human carefully, sensing that something outside of his knowledge was happening.

"The Federation will tolerate a Cardassian garrison on this station, but with two conditions. One, that Bajor fully agrees to the idea and that there are no major objections from anyone else, and two, that the Cardassian government puts their troops under Bajoran and Starfleet jurisdiction."

"They'll never agree to those conditions, Captain." Shervas looked blankly at the man for a moment, then grinned. "What a shame."

"Yes, it is, isn't it?" Sisko nodded slowly. "The Federation also feels that if Bajor wishes to return its colonies to Cardassian control, it would probably be advisable to begin a complete evacuation of them, to prevent the problems we've had with the Maquis."

"And just where do you suggest I put these people, Captain?" Edon shook his head. "Those Bajorans have every right to live there, and I have no intention of giving them up."

"As to the mining," Ben shrugged, "It's your asteroid belt, it's your choice who mines it. We can't stop you allowing Cardassia to mine and sell the ores, but our preliminary scans have shown that you would be giving away a fortune."

"Our scans have shown the same thing. Minister, we can't allow any of these concessions to go through." Shervas stopped as Shakaar put up his hand.

"I'm not going to. Captain, Kira has suggested that if we hand the colonies back to Cardassia, the Klingons might see that as an opportunity to attack, thereby giving them several close bases to Bajoran space which could be used to launch attacks on both Bajor and Cardassia in the future. How seriously does Starfleet view this as a threat?"

Sisko thought for a moment, then nodded slowly. "It's a very real threat indeed, and I have given a lot of thought to the matter. My suggestion is that you don't hand these colonies over, and therefore the Klingon Empire will have no excuse to attack Bajoran space. If they do, then I'm within my rights to help defend you people and those planets as best I can."

"Thank you Captain." Shakaar and the other two men stood as Levan and his three aides swept into the room, taking their place on the opposite side of the table, and the negotiations started again.

Dax stared at Kira in shock, as the Bajoran lay on the Trills couch, a cold towel across her forehead. "He told you WHAT???"

"He told me that if Bajor didn't accept their demands, Socrat would ask for several Bajoran war criminals to be handed over to Cardassia. His other option was that if I cared to visit him, then Bajor's proposal would be accepted without any further problems." Kira sat up and slowly raised her eyes to meet Dax's horrified expression. "I don't know what to do anymore."

"Nerys, you can't give in to this man, not again." Dax sat beside her friend and put an arm around her shoulder. "It's taken you so long to forget about him, you can't walk into this now."

"I might not have a choice. If we don't accept their demands, then I'll be deported as a war criminal, and if we do accept, then Bajor is all but handing itself back into slavery, along with the wormhole and the Prophets." Kira shook her head and gazed at Dax. "Do you have any idea what that would mean to my people, to Shakaar? It'd destroy everything that I've tried to create between Bajor, Cardassia, and the Federation. I can't let that happen." Kira looked steadily at her friend, then dropped her eyes back to the floor.

"Nerys, you cannot, under any circumstances, sleep with this man just on the chance that he MIGHT influence Levan." Jadzia couldn't believe what her friend was suggesting. "He's a Cardassian, who brutally hurt your father, and who took your innocence when you were only eleven years old. If you give in to him, then you'll go back to that place again and none of us want to see you there." Dax was holding Kira's hands tightly, trying to will some of her strength into the worried Bajoran. "Don't do this Nerys, don't let him destroy all you've become, all you've achieved."

"Dax, I have no choice. I'm dammed if I don't, and dammed if I do." Kira stood and gently placed a hand on her friends shoulder, as the Trill looked up at her, shaking her head. "I'm going to find an excuse to break up with Shakaar, and then...I'll do what I have to, to preserve the peace with Cardassia." Just before she left the room, Kira turned and smiled sadly. "One person's life isn't much when you compare it to an entire civilisation's survival."

Dax watched Kira leave, sat for a moment, then marched over to her computer console. "Forgive me, Nerys, but I'll be dammed if I'll let you destroy your life like this. Dax to Sisko."

The Humans deep voice came over the comm line. "Sisko here. What can I do for you, Old man?"

"Benjamin, I'd like to talk to you about...about Kira's leave time next week." The woman held her breath, hoping Sisko would cotton on to the implication.

After a brief silence, his concerned voice came back over the line. "I'll be down right away. Sisko out." Only a few minutes later, the man strode into Dax's quarters, a confused expression on his face. "Now what's this about Kira taking leave next week? I haven't been able to get her to take any time off in months, how did you do it?"

"I didn't, I lied." Dax stood before her friend and spoke quickly. "Socrat spoke to Kira today, and told her that unless Shakaar agreed to all of Cardassia's demands, Cardassia would demand that Bajoran war criminals be handed over to them. If Shakaar does agree, then Cardassia will agree to forget all about the criminal charges against the Bajoran's, and might agree to several of the Bajoran initiatives."

"The hell they will!!" Sisko's voice exploded into the quiet room, and he paced around, wanting to hit something very hard.

"There's more." Dax braced herself. "He also told Kira that there was a third option: If she came to his quarters and gave herself to him freely, then he would encourage Levan to accept Bajor's ideas and the Detapa Council would openly support the mutual co-operation between the two peoples."

Sisko had gazed, horrified, at Dax as she spoke, and as she finally stopped, he sank into a chair, a hand to his temple. The silence grew, until Dax thought she couldn't stand anymore, until Sisko suddenly spoke. "Does Shakaar know about this?"

"No. Kira's planning to sabotage their relationship, so she feels that she isn't betraying him, then she'll go to Socrat." Dax looked down at Sisko angrily. "Benjamin, we have to stop her! She going to destroy her life just on the off chance that Socrat will keep his word. We have to stop her!"

"I'm well aware of that, Dax!" Sisko shot to his feet, pacing around the room again. "What if we tell Shakaar? He definitely has enough influence with Nerys to prevent her from carrying out this lunatic plan."

"We'll have to hurry. I got the impression Kira was going to see him immediately." Dax and Sisko left the room and all but ran towards the wardroom. "If she has gone on to Socrat's quarters, it's going to be harder to stop her going through with it."

"Not really." The captain skidded to a halt, and the two officers casually entered the conference room, to find the two negotiating teams on a short recess. Sisko saw his First Officer trying to blend in with the scenery, and nodded shortly. "Let's go.

Socrat was having a wonderful day. First, he'd managed to talk to Kira, sneaking around the station's security system, and secondly, he was still causing chaos during the conference, and had no intention of stopping until he'd gotten his own way.

Bringing his mind back to the talks, the Gul couldn't help but smile slightly as Kira walked into the wardroom, a sickly expression on her face. "Major, you seem to be ill. Aren't you feeling well?" Socrat couldn't resist the jibe.

"Just a touch of the flu I think, nothing serious." Kira shot the man a look of pure death as she sat down beside Shakaar, who looked at her curiously.

"As I was saying before you came in, Major, I still fail to see why Bajor does not want out assistance with protecting this sector." Levan's measured Cardassian tones were beginning to fracture Shakaar's nerves. "I would have thought that, with the Dominion threat becoming more prevalent, Bajor would welcome our...military offer with welcome arms."

"Minister, six years ago your people were busy slaughtering Bajorans because we refused to allow ourselves to be used as slaves. Now, what makes you think that we would HAPPY about Cardassian troops once again occupying any part of Bajoran space?" The minister was close to the end of his rope, and just about ready to snap. "We will NEVER again submit to an overlord rule again."

"I see." Levan glanced at Socrat, who was still staring at Kira, then looked back at Shakaar. "Minister, there must be some way we can work out a compromise without causing a major incident between our two races."

"Minister, while ever Cardassia refuses to acknowledge Bajor as a separate people no longer under your control, there will be no room for us to work together. When that changes, then we'll have a chance." Shervas spoke quickly, beating his leader to the punch.

Shakaar frowned at his aide slightly, then turned to Levan. "We have had a long day, Minister, and I expect we are both tired. Can I suggest a half hour recess, then a more informal session of talks tonight?" Edon turned on his most charming smile, one that was guaranteed to melt even the hardest hearts, and wasn't disappointed, as Levan grinned and nodded.

"An excellant suggestion, Minister." Shakaar nodded, while Levan, Socrat, and the two other Cardassians moved over to the buffet table and began chatting amiably amongst themselves as the Bajorans stayed seated for a moment and the two men turned to Kira.

"Nerys, what's wrong? You look terrible." Minister Shakaar hadn't seen Kira looking this bad in a very long time. Her face was drawn and pale, and her expression was one of forced cheerfulness that was about as convincing as a wet paper bag. "If you're not well,--"

"Edon, I'm fine. Really." Kira stood but glanced down at Shakaar sadly. "I won't be able to visit you tonight, I've got...other plans."

"Plans?" Shakaar glanced at Shervas as what felt like an iceberg settled in his stomach. "Shervas, could you excuse Kira and I for a moment?" Shakaar waited until his aide had joined the Cardassians at the buffet, then swung back to his friend. "Alright Kira, what's going on?"

"I'm afraid that...you and I..." The woman was finding this tougher than anything else she'd ever done. "I don't want to see you anymore."

Shakaar felt the bottom drop out of his world as he stared at Kira in horror and confusion. "But...but why? Is it something I've said, or done? Is it because I can't get to the station very often, or that I'm the First Minister, or--"

"Shakaar," Kira reached out to hold the man's arm, and tried to ignore the knowing leers from Socrat. "Edon, it's not you, it's me. I just need time to think, to spend on my own. Please don't believe you've done anything wrong. All I need is some time." Kira stepped back and dropped her grip on Shakaar's arm. "Can you understand that?"

"I think so." Shakaar was still confused, but understood that women sometimes needed to spend time apart from their lovers, it seemed to help clear their emotions. "Well, just as long as you're not going to try and shut me out completely. Now, we need to sit down and work out a viable compromise with the Cardassians tonight, because in two days I have to appear at a conference on Bajor."

Kira saw Sisko and Dax walk into the room and quickly led Shakaar over to the other delegates. "Then let's get this under way."

"Minister, can I have a word with you, please?" Sisko smiled at Shakaar and ignored Kira's pleading expression. "In private, if you don't mind."

"Of course. Excuse me, Kira." Edon bowed slightly, and moved to the other end of the room with Sisko and Dax, as Kira, Shervas, and Socrat watched covertly. The two Starfleet officers appeared to speak with the minister for several minutes, before Shakaar held up his hand, stopping Sisko's words, and sank into a chair, a hand over his eyes. Finally, the Bajoran stood and appeared to steady himself on the back of the chair for a moment, before turning back to the main group and walking over to Levan.

"Minister Levan, I'm afraid a situation has come up that requires my immediate attention. However, I will be able to continue these talks at your earliest convenience tomorrow." The Bajoran's expression was one of simmering anger, and Kira had a nasty feeling it was directed at her, since he refused to meet her eyes.

"Of course, Minister. I trust it is nothing serious." Levan was just as confused as everyone else was.

"Nothing that can't be fixed by morning. If you'll excuse us?" As the Cardassians nodded, Shakaar motioned for Kira and Shervas to leave the room before him. In the corridor, Shakaar didn't speak a word, just walked swiftly to Kira's quarters. Entering them, he waited until Kira, Sisko, Dax and Shervas were inside and the door had closed, before pushing Kira onto a chair and leaning towards her.

"What the HELL were you thinking? That is, assuming you were using your brain at the time." Shakaar stared at Kira's face, examining every part as if for the first time. He didn't know whether to be horrified that Kira had tried to destroy what they had, angry that she'd lied to him only minutes before, or incensed that Socrat would try anything so low and base as to rape Kira again.

"I am using my brain, but apparently some people can't keep their mouths shut." Kira glared at Dax and tried to stand, but was pushed back down by Shakaar.

"Just how is your letting yourself be raped using your brain?" Shakaar heard Shervas gasp behind him, and pressed on. "Why would you do this, after all you've been through, all we've been through? Nerys, sacrificing yourself will not force Socrat to keep his side of the bargain."

"Well what do you want me to do? If I don't at least try to find a way out of this, Bajor is going to lose several key officers and officials to a Cardassian execution squad!" Kira pushed Shakaar's arm away, stood, and paced around her room, ignoring the others who were standing like stone. Facing the others, Kira felt like she was the soldier about to go on a death-mission. "I have to at least try."

"We're not arguing that, Kira," Sisko stepped forward slowly, a small smile on his face, "But we don't want to see you destroy yourself like this, and for a cause that might not have any effect on the talks. You have no proof that Socrat will keep his word after he's abused you. And I have no doubt that he will abuse you violently."

"Neither do I," Kira whispered, turning to look out into the stars, as Shervas cleared his throat nervously.

"I appear to unaware of certain developments that have happened today. Could someone please tell me what's going on?" Rem looked inquiringly at Sisko, but it was Dax that spoke.

"Socrat gave Kira three options today: Bajor agrees to the Cardassian options and no other problems occur, or Bajor can refuse and Cardassia will withdraw from the treaty and demand the handover of Bajorans accused of war crimes against Cardassia. Or," Dax took a deep breath, "Kira can sleep with Socrat and Cardassia will agree to Bajor's proposals." Shervas' jaw dropped open as he stared at Kira in shock, while Dax walked over to her Bajoran friend, and slipped an arm around Kira's shoulder. "Nerys, we're concerned about you. We don't want to see you hurt again."

Kira shrugged off Dax's arm, still annoyed and upset. "I know, but I don't know what else to do. He's given me an option, and right now, it's the only option I know of."

"No, it's not." Shakaar walked to Kira's computer console, and typed a short message. "We are going to sort this out right now." Moments later, the door chime rang, and Minister Levan walked into the room. Kira stared at him for a moment, then rounded on Shakaar.

"What are you doing?"

"Sorting this whole mess out." Shakaar's glance warned Kira to keep quiet while he turned to Levan. "Minister, I think you should hear a rather interesting idea that Gul Socrat put to Major Kira today." Speaking quickly the Bajoran outlined the proposals Socrat had made, while Kira glared continuously at the Cardassian.

When Shakaar finished, Levan slowly sat on the couch, not daring to look at Kira. "Major, how do you and Socrat know each other?"

"Twenty years ago he was a new officer at the Dakhur refugee camp, where I was living. Socrat made a habit out of...breaking in the Bajoran girls in the camp." Kira was finding it hard to speak, but knew the man deserved an explanation. "Before my father and I escaped, Socrat got to me, several times. He has very...brutal tastes, in the bedroom, and I've never forgotten what he did, even when I'm with the men I care about." Kira slid down the wall of her quarters and hugged her knees to her chest, not caring what the others thought of her.

Levan looked at the Bajoran woman for a long moment, then walked over and crouched down beside her, gently placing a hand on Kira's shoulder. "Major, I'm not like Gul Socrat, and I never have been. I don't like men who hurt women, and I don't believe that he had any right to hurt you or any other Bajoran either. As far as what he's said to you about encouraging me to accept Bajor's proposals, the only reason I haven't already is that my people expect a certain amount of...reluctance from me, before I yield to what are more than reasonable requests from your First Minister. I intended to accede to the Bajoran proposals tonight, and hand over another Orb immediately, with another to be given back when the mutual operations start. Gul Socrat has been the one encouraging me to hold back and try for more concessions, for the good of the union, he said. Now I understand exactly why." Levan swivelled and looked at Shakaar and Sisko. "Captain, Minister, I can only apologise for what Socrat has done, and ask you to believe that he has done it without my knowledge or permission."

"I've read the Bajoran Intelligence file on you, Minister, and I don't believe you would condone anything like this." Shakaar knelt down with Levan and Kira, and nodded. "But that doesn't solve the problem of what to do about Socrat."

"I'm open to any suggestions you might have, especially you, Major." Levan and Shakaar stood and moved back as Kira got to her feet, feeling a little better. "After all, it was you that he insulted."

"But what?" Sisko looked at the others and silence reigned for several moments, before Kira clicked her fingers and smiled savagely. "Of course, the holosuites."

"I'm sorry?" Sisko gazed confusedly at his friend. "What have the holosuites got to do with this?"

"A few years ago Quark wrote me into a holo-program. Odo and I re-programmed the original, but I'm pretty sure that we also locked down a copy for future use against Quark." Kira punched a few buttons on her console and grinned. "I've found it."

"What's your point?" Dax had a feeling she knew where Kira was going, but was still intrigued.

"Socrat says he wants to spend time with me." The major's grin was even wider now. "Let's give him what he wants."

Quark looked up as Kira, Sisko, Shakaar, and Levan walked into the bar. Slamming his money box shut, the Ferengi glared at Kira. "Major, if you've come for some more whiskey, I'm fresh out." The man indicated a freshly painted banister. "And I've only just finished repairing your last visit."

"Relax Quark, this is just a friendly visit." Kira walked forward, trying to look harmless, but failing miserably. "I just need a favour, that's all."

"How...big a favour?" The troll was intrigued, unconsciously rubbing his ear slowly.

"Quark, I hear that Gul Socrat's crew have broken two of your holosuites since they arrived, and that takings from your regular station patrons are down across the board." Sisko stepped forward, as Shakaar and Levan made themselves comfortable along the bar.

"No more than the usual Cardassian visitors." Quark glanced at the other visitors, and out the door to see Odo and Worf keeping what few people were still on the promenade this late at night, away from the bar. "Alright what's going on?"

"We need to borrow one of your holosuites for a few hours." Levan smiled, and enjoyed the sight of Quark shivering. "We'll be providing our own program."

Walking slowly around behind the bar, Quark poured himself a large drink and sat down, intrigued. "What do you have in mind?"

Socrat wound his way through the patrons in the bar, and climbed the stairs to the second level holosuites. Looking along the narrow corridor, he saw a station maintenance crew busily repairing one of the suites. Walking to another room, he opened it and smirked as he saw Kira standing inside, her arms wrapped around her. Waiting until the door closed behind him before he spoke, Socrat leisurely studied the woman's body. "Well, Major. I assume you've decided to take the only smart decision you can?" Kira seemed to be dressed only in a shirt and pants set.

"I'm here, aren't I?" Kira glared at the man, then turned away. "Computer, start program." A momentary flash blinded Socrat, and when his eyes cleared, he saw his old quarters back in the camp on Bajor, including a bed complete with various restraints and other torture devices.

Looking around, he turned back to Kira and grinned savagely. "I see you've remembered my favourite toys." Reaching over to Kira, he ripped her shirt open down the front, frowning as she didn't resist. "Don't make this easy for me, wench. I like a woman who makes me work for it." As Kira began to struggle, he laughed and tossed her onto the bed, his well-toned strength giving him an easy advantage. Lying on top of her, he forced her arms into the restraints, and clipped them shut. Sitting up, he looked down on her semi-naked body, then reached down and ripped off her pants. "Now, let's see what you've learnt since we last saw each other."

Leaning down, he forced his tongue into her mouth, enjoying her whimpering as she struggled for breath. Tearing off the rest of her clothing, he used part of her shirt to gag her, then picked up a small electric probe, and waved it slowly under the frightened Bajoran's eyes. "Now, where were we when you ran off so rudely all those years ago?"

Three hours later, Socrat was sitting cross legged on the bed, looking studiously at the Bajoran crouched on the floor. Her back showed the lash marks from being whipped, the gashes open and bleeding. Bruises covered her body, as did bites and other cuts, while blood ran down her thighs, since Socrat hadn't been at all gentle when he'd raped Kira. Getting off the bed, he stood over the woman and pulled her hair back until she was looking into his eyes. "Had enough, Major?" The Cardassian spat out her rank through clenched teeth, hating the fact that she even had it.

"I....I need a doctor." Kira whispered and closed her eyes, the pain almost unbearable. "Please, let me go. You've got what you wanted, now you keep your end of the bargain."

"What bargain?" Socrat stepped back and dressed quickly, occasionally throwing the woman a glance. "I don't remember any deal. You came to me freely, and there's not a thing anyone can do about it." Socrat turned back to Kira, and kicked her in the stomach, causing her to fall to the ground, moaning in agony. "You Bajoran scum will eventually learn that you'll never be anything but slaves. Your just moving dirt, to be shot and used as we wish. One day, you and your beloved Federation will realise that Cardassians are your betters, and you will submit to--" Socrat's rantings were interrupted by the hiss of the rooms door opening, and he stood, stunned, as Sisko, Odo, Levan, and....Kira?? entered the room.

Major Kira Nerys, fully dressed in her uniform, and with a phaser securely in her hand, smiled brightly at Socrat, who looked from her to the crumpled figure on the floor in confusion. "Gul Socrat, you are under arrest for attempted blackmail. Please resist arrest, I'd love the chance to take a shot at you." Kira smiled and hefted the phaser meaningfully.

"But...but how can you..?" Looking around, Socrat remembered where he was, and nodded. "A holosuite. It's all a holosuite program." Bowing slightly, the man stared at Kira with unashamed hatred. "Well done Major. You had me completely fooled, even down to the psychology of the programs female. I had no idea that Federation technology was so sophisticated."

"We have a very inventive barkeeper." Odo nodded then motioned towards the open door, and the waiting security detail. "If you'll come this way, Gul?" Odo followed the man out the door, while Kira slowly walked over to her doppleganger and looked at the damage the Cardassian had inflicted on the holo-image.

"I wouldn't have stood a chance." She felt Levan and Sisko move to stand beside her, and glanced at Sisko ruefully. "If this was me..."

"If this were you, I'd have Doctor Bashir in here right now, and Gul Socrat under lock and key for rape, assault, deprivation of liberty, and around ten other charges." Sisko smiled at Kira, then indicated the room. "Do you want to do the honours, or shall I say it?"

"No, I can do this." Nerys took a last look around, then walked to the door. "Computer, end program."

Socrat leaned casually against the wall, and glared at the Bajoran opposite him. He still couldn't believe that he'd been taken in by the holographic replica. Kira, meanwhile, was outside the cell staring in, but thinking very different thoughts to the Cardassian. Hearing the main door open, she looked around and smiled as Sisko, Shakaar, and Levan entered. "Making sure he can't get away, Major?" Levan was feeling jovial. He and Shakaar had just signed a mutual defence pact between their two races, and it would make sure that the Klingons got more than they bargained for in future, should they attack either Cardassia or Bajor.

"I just wanted to make sure he's behind bars." Kira looked back at Socrat angrily. "I'm just one victim, but I can promise that every girl you violated will be avenged. Especially Barana Kel. Do you remember her?"

"There were so many, I can't be expected to remember them all." The man appeared calm, but inside he was chewing himself apart trying to work out how he would get out of the charges against him.

"Oh, of course. I forgot that you spread yourself around." The viciousness was evident in Kira's voice as she walked forward, and Captain Sisko moved slightly closer to the cell in case she lost her temper. "But I remember her. I remember her laughing and playing one day. And I remember watching her throw herself off the top of a building with a rope around her neck the next, because you had...raped her the night before." Kira was close to tears, her voice rising to a deadly pitch. Sisko abandoned all pretence of movement, and placed himself directly between her and the door. "I remember seeing her body when we cut her down, and the damage you'd done. And that night you came for me, and again, and again. I was only one, but I will make sure they are never forgotten." The officer finished and seemed to see Sisko for the first time, glancing around at the others. "I'm sorry."

"Don't apologise." Levan nodded cautiously. "I agree. Socrat, as far as the council is concerned, you are no longer our concern. You will stay here, and be tried by the Bajorans for crimes against them. Whatever sentence they impose will, I'm sure, be more than adequate." Turning, Levan left the room, ignoring the yelling from the man inside the cell while Sisko continued to watch Kira carefully.

"Nerys, come on, it's over." Shakaar gently put an arm around his lovers shoulder and looked deeply into her eyes. "It's over now, he can't hurt you anymore." The man waited until Kira turned away from the cell, and then slowly led her back into the main security office, with Sisko close behind them. Facing the captain, he smiled. "Captain, if you don't require Nerys any longer today, I think it might be wise if she gets some rest."

"I agree." Ben smiled and gazed at Kira steadily. "Major, your testimony will only be required at the trial, so I want you to take some time off, preferably on Bajor and away from anything that even remotely looks like work. Is that understood?"

"Yes sir." Kira seemed to be drained of energy, and leaned in against Shakaar slightly. "I don't know about Bajor, but--"

Shakaar interrupted, "She'll come back to Bajor with me, Captain. I'll make sure that she gets plenty of rest, don't worry." Nodding at Sisko and Odo, Shakaar propelled Kira out the door, and into a turbolift, while Odo smiled fractionally.

"Kira's a lucky woman to have a man who's that devoted to her."

Sisko grinned at the Changeling's words. "You're right there, Constable. Meanwhile, I'd better go see what to do about our guest. I'll leave Socrat in your capable hands Odo." As the Human left, Odo allowed his mind to wander for a few moments about what he could do to the Cardassian, before typing up the security report on the man.

Kira strolled onto the veranda and breathed deeply, enjoying the smell and taste of the fresh Bajoran spring air. She and Shakaar had retired to his farmhouse in Dakhur rather than his government house in the Capitol, since both had wanted to get back to their roots, so to speak. Looking at the fields, Kira couldn't help but smile at the light green shading from the young crops, and knew that, if the weather behaved like it was supposed to, there would be a good harvest in the province that year.

Hearing a small noise behind her, she leant back into Shakaar as he wrapped his arms around her waist and nuzzled her neck seductively. "Good morning. After last night, I didn't think I'd see you before this afternoon."

Edon chuckled softly and hugged Kira back into himself, enjoying the non-perfumed smell of the woman. It was closer to his memories of her from the occupation, a smell unenhanced by soap, or uniforms, or anything non-Bajoran. Turning her to face him, Edon and Nerys kissed deeply for a long time, before pulling back, to find that they were now lying on the veranda. "It seems, for a woman who doesn't want to see me anymore, that you really want me very much."

"I wanted you every second that I was telling you to get out of my life." Kira stretched out next to the man, her head on his shoulder and one arm over his waist. "I never stopped caring about you, but he seemed to have all the cards."

"I know." Shakaar cradled the woman's head against his chest and sighed. "I'm glad you didn't come to the hanging yesterday, it just would have brought up bad memories, not buried them."

Kira muffed quietly. "Those memories will never be buried, Edon," She raised herself up and moved over Shakaar as he grinned up at her, "But you always help me forget." The two people began to kiss, touching each other through their clothes, when two loud fake coughs started. Looking sideways, Kira grinned as she saw Lupaza and Furel standing there, examining the crop fields. Glancing back at Shakaar, Nerys sighed. "There's always something." Getting off the man below her, she stood and smiled. "What's taken you so long, I've been here for four days now?"

"We thought you might need some time to adjust. The case against Socrat has been big news around here." Lupaza and Furel walked into the small cabin, and smiled as they saw the clothing strewn around the open bedroom.

Closing the rooms door, Shakaar saw the grins on their friends faces and waggled his finger. "Quiet, both of you." Boiling some water, he smiled as the two planetside Bajorans began quizzing their friend about the station, and other races. "What were the local press saying about the court case?"

"That this was the most serious trial of a Cardassian since the end of the occupation." Furel skilfully liberated a bottle of Bajoran wine from Shakaar's cupboard and settled in for the long haul. "They were very kind to the victims, even withholding some of the names to protect them."

"Mine wasn't one of them." Kira stole the wine from Furel and tried to pour herself a large drink, but was stopped by Shakaar who gently took the bottle from her and shook his head.

"You were the chief witness for the prosecution, Nerys." Lupaza and Furel exchanged glances. Kira only drank hard when she was having trouble coping with a situation, and this was definitely one of those times. "Aside from that, it was your idea that eventually helped catch him. Using that holoprogram was a stroke of genius." The woman watched her young friend closely, and saw the pain still there. "He's dead Nerys, it's over."

"Is it?" Kira gazed at Lupaza and sniffed quietly. "Is his death going to bring back Kel? Is it going to give me back my innocence?"

Shakaar sat down and placed an arm around Kira's shoulders and gently shushed her, "Easy, Nerys. Don't get worked up over a dead man, you've got a whole life ahead of you to let the memories fade. Let the ghosts rest Kira, it's time to let go." The silence stretched for an eternity, each of them caught in their own thoughts, when Kira suddenly looked up and laughed shakily.

"Look at us! Here we are, talking about Cardassians, and ghosts, and the past, when we should be talking about the future and us. We don't see each other that often now, the last thing we should be doing is sitting around looking miserable." She stood and grinned, "Come on, I'll cook some lunch."

"You will not!!" Furel stood, took the pot from Kira's hands, and gently tapped her on the head with it. "I've tasted you cooking before, and I'd rather have roasted vole than eat it again!" Kira sat down and pretended to be insulted, as the others laughed and the mood lightened until it was just four friends having a reunion.

Later that night, as she and Shakaar relaxed in bed, Kira snuggled into the man beside her and sighed. "It's a pity I have to leave in a few days, there never seems to be enough time to spend on Bajor."

"Then why leave?" Shakaar raised himself up and looked at the woman next to him. "You could transfer to any post you want on Bajor, at almost any rank you want. The diplomatic corp alone would jump at the chance to have you work for them, let alone lecturing at the Bajoran Military Academy. Why not take the opportunity and return to Bajor? Let someone else do the fighting from now on."

"I can't." Kira lay back and stared at the stars outside the opposite window. "I can't leave Ben, and Dax, and Odo to fight it for me, I have to help them. I owe them a lot, if I leave now them I'll feel like I'm deserting them."

"I doubt if they would see it that way. You've worked harder and longer than any other Bajoran officer of your rank, you've earned a rest. From what I've seen of your friends on the station, they would probably say that you deserve to take a break. It wouldn't have to be forever, maybe just a year or so, to let yourself recharge, so to speak." The man saw the idea begin to take shape in his lovers mind, and began to allow himself to hope that she would agree.

"I don't know, maybe." Kira thought for a moment, then dismissed the idea and turned her attention back to Shakaar. "But I've got a few days yet before I have to make a decision, so," her hand trailed down under the sheet, "Let's make the most of it." She giggled as Edon tickled her as the two Bajorans slowly reaffirmed their love for each other.

Kira glanced into Sisko's office for the tenth time in as many minutes and sighed. She'd been wanting to talk to him ever since she'd come on duty, but the man had always seemed to have someone talking to him from Starfleet Command, or the Bajoran government, or some such thing. Finally, Kira saw him close off the latest communication, and lean back in his chair looking very exhausted.

Taking her courage in both hands, Kira marched into the office, and gazed at her commanding officer. "You look tired."

"I just love talking to admirals." Sisko grimaced, then smiled at his First Officer, but a frown slowly crossed his face as the grin wasn't returned. "What's up, Kira?"

The Bajoran sighed and sat down, looking everywhere but at her friend. "I've um...I've decided to request a transfer back to Bajor, to the military academy. I've been offered a lecturing position on Federation politics and inter-galactic diplomacy." Kira finally looked at Sisko and smiled wanly. "I might make that ambassador's post yet."

Ben stared at Kira in shock for several moments, then locked the outer door. "Why? Has something happened here to make you want to leave?" Ben couldn't believe that his most valued officer would just walk away from a posting that she'd fought to keep for so long to keep.

"No, nothing like that, it's just..." Kira paused, stood, walked to the window, and stood looking out into the stars. "Ben, I've been a fighter for over twenty years now, and I'm tired. I'm tired of fighting, tired of living on my wits, tired of always having to keep a phaser and a knife with me in case someone tries to invade my home." She turned to face him, and Sisko saw what seemed to be the face of a different woman. Her expression was lined and drawn, like every battle had etched its mark there, and her eyes were haunted by the sight of too much death, and of seeing family and friends slaughtered before her eyes. "I just want to rest and let someone else do the fighting for once."

"I see." Sisko stood and walked to stand before his friend. "Will you do one thing before you leave?"

"Of course." Kira smiled sadly, and Sisko cheered up just a little.

"Will you help me find a new First Officer, one who you trust and you think I can work with? I need someone who will help Bajor, and help bring it into the Federation, not to mention being able to work with the Cardassians and all the other races we have on the station."

"I think I can help you do that." Kira and Sisko looked at each other silently for a few moments, then Kira nodded sharply. "Well, I'd better contact the Bajoran government and see about that replacement, and then I'll clear up my bar tab with Quark."

"There's no rush Nerys. You don't have to go immediately." Sisko didn't want to say goodbye to Kira, and he certainly didn't want her to feel like she was being forced away from the station.

"Actually there is a rush." Kira tapped a button on Sisko's desk and unlocked the office door. "The next academy intake is in three weeks, and I still have to draft the terms lectures, since this will be a new subject." The woman smiled briefly, "I want you to know that...I wish I could stay longer, but I want a rest. Who knows, I might be back in a years time?"

"You'll always be welcome here, Nerys." Sisko glanced out into Ops then reached out and hugged her tightly. "Don't be a stranger, please."

"I won't." Kira returned the hug just as tightly, then stepped back. "I'll be around, don't worry. I'll have to keep up with current Federation policy and the latest changes within the Alpha and Beta quadrants. Besides, I love the sight of the Wormhole and I couldn't stay away from it forever."

"Alright." Sisko walked back to his desk and nodded. "I'll let you get on with tidying up your affairs and notify Starfleet that there's going to be a change with the Bajoran attaché here. But I want you to come to dinner tomorrow night. You can't leave without letting us give you a farewell party."

"I'll be there, and Major Jitaran is arriving in an hour." Kira winked slyly. "He's my suggestion to replace me, and I think he'll be an excellant officer."

Ben grinned and shook his head. "I should have known you'd already have arranged for another officer. Well, I'll let you meet him at the shuttle and bring him to Ops, but if he's your recommendation then I'm sure he's an excellant officer."

Kira nodded sharply and strode from the office, while Sisko watched. He saw her stop next to Dax and Bashir, who seemed to be having a conference at the centre table, and then the three of them slowly left on the turbolift as Sisko sighed and spun to look out the window.

Kira hugged Miles O'Brien tightly, then very gently took his young son into her arms, and looked down at him, smiling as the boy reached up to try and grab her earring. "Now you grow up to be a big, strong man, okay?" She glanced at the chief and Keiko, "If you ever need anything, or things become too dangerous up here, you'll always be welcome on Bajor."

"We know Nerys. Believe me, the next time the station's evacuated," Keiko reached out and took the child back as he drifted off to sleep, "I'll be turning up on your doorstep until the danger's past."

Kira nodded and picked up her travel bag, slinging it over her shoulder as the computer announced the final boarding call for the shuttle to Bajor. Looking at the assembled people around her, she glanced at the floor then gazed steadily at Sisko. "Request permission to disembark, sir."

Sisko stepped forward until his chest was almost touching Kira's, and shook his head. "I want to say no....but I can't force you to stay when you want to leave. So, with deep regret, permission granted."

Nerys nodded, not trusting the lump in her throat to let her speak, and turned away. But before she could enter the airlock, the Bajoran faced her friends again, "I've arranged to rent a small house in the Capitol, not too big, but large enough to accommodate a few friends who might drop in occasionally." Kira grinned slowly as the others smiled and nodded at her.

"Don't worry, I'm supposed to be spending a few days on Bajor next month to help the science academy with some gamma quadrant plants," Dax reached out and held Kira's hand tightly, "It'll be nice to have a real bed to sleep on."

"I'll make sure of it." Kira pulled her hand from Dax's grasp, and after a last look at the group, stepped into the airlock and walked into the shuttle, not looking around even when she heard the airlock close behind her. Handing her boarding pass to the Bajoran steward, Kira sat in her private room, and watched as the place that had been her home for the last six years slowly began to move out of sight as the shuttle sped towards Bajor.

On the station, the crew watched as the shuttle pushed away from the station and headed to the nearby planet. Turning away from the window, Dax glanced at the others and shook her head. "Benjamin, if you don't mind, I think I'd like to take the rest of the day off."

Sisko's gaze was still fixed on the almost vanished craft. "I'll walk you to Quark's, I think I need a drink as well."

"Drinks are on the house, Captain." A troll-like whisper from behind made them all spin around, to see Quark and Garak standing there. "What can I say, I'll miss her. Kira was a loyal customer, she always paid her bills on time."

"That comment's going to cost you another round of drinks, Quark." Sisko motioned towards the nearby turbolift. "Well people, the station's still here, and we aren't going anywhere just yet. Let's have those drinks."

"Feeling nervous?" Colonel Kira Nerys, Diplomatic Attaché to the Bajoran Military Academy, glanced up and grinned at Shakaar as he leaned casually in the doorway to her office at the Academy. He and their friends from Dakhur had helped her set up house, and the party that her old resistance cell had thrown when Kira moved in had left them with hangovers for all of the next day, since the party had lasted all the day and most of the night.

"Me nervous?" Kira chuckled, betraying the jittery feeling that was lying in the pit of her stomach. "I've only got to get up in front of thirty cadets and explain the intricacies of Federation politics to them, nothing really."

"You'll survive." Shakaar laughed, gently taking her hand, and led her to the doorway of the lecture hall. "I have to get back to the council, but I'll be free for dinner tonight."

"I'd love that." Nerys smiled shyly and kissed Shakaar's cheek. "It'll give us a chance to test that new bed I got yesterday."

"That sounds like fun." Shakaar hugged his lover quickly, as he saw a group of cadets being marched towards the hall. "I'd better go, I'll pick you around seven."

Kira nodded and watched as the man disappeared into the main transporter building, before turning and walking into the lecture hall to begin her new assignment.

Send comments to: dakhur@iinet.net.au I can handle anything you throw at me, I have asbestos skin.