The shuttle's computer brought him out of his concentration. “On our present course we will confront a force 5 ion storm at 119 mark 56. Distance .3 light years.”

Duncan looked out the front of the shuttle even though he knew he wouldn't be able to see anything. “Computer, how long to circumvent the ion activity?” He queried.

“Seventeen hours, forty seven minutes and sixteen seconds.” The computer responded.

Almost eighteen hours. MacDermott thought. ”Computer maintain course and speed.”

The shuttle continued on toward the ion storm. MacDermott moved around the small cabin battening down things that were loose. Suddenly the shuttle floor disappeared below him. As he picked him self up off the deck. He thought. That was fast. Again, the shuttle shuttered and fell from underneath him. A panel exploded behind him. The interior of the shuttle filled with smoke. The computer reported. “Warp core is off line.”

“I'm not going to get out of this with the warp drive off line.” He said to no one. MacDermott worked to find a place to land and sit the storm out. “There.”

Sedona III was a small class M planet. Lush and green. MacDermott brought the shuttle around. “20 minutes until we reach orbit.” The shuttle shook as the energy of the ion storm battered the little shuttle.

In a matter of minutes the storm had overtaken the small shuttle. Through the ion activity, MacDermott could make out the planet getting closer. Duncan breathed a sigh of relief. It was the last thing he would remember. An incredibly powerful burst of energy hit the shuttle. The burst fused the impulse engines and severed one of the already useless warp nacelles. The ship lurched and caught MacDermott off guard. His head slammed into the console. He fell from the chair and sprawled on the floor a huge gash on his forehead spurted blood.

Without a pilot or engines the shuttle spiraled toward Sedona III. The front of the shuttle flared with heat as it entered the atmosphere. At that point the computer took control. “Emergency evacuation protocols initiated. If the protocol is not deactivated in the next 20 seconds all occupants will be transported to the nearest safe environment.”

There was no one to hear the computer. MacDermott lay on the floor unconscious; one hand rested on his katana that had fallen from the console. “5…4…3…2…1…Initiating evacuation transport protocol.”

The blue transporter effect took a hold of MacDermott's body and his sword as the shuttle began to come apart around him.

The transporter released MacDermott onto the soft mossy ground of Sedona III. Above him, the shuttle burned in the atmosphere.

ACT 1

The small boy poked at the body with a stick. His straight blond hair fell over his ears. The boy sat back and watched the body breathe slowly. But still it didn't move, except for the rising and falling as it breathed. The small boy soon grew bored of his find and turned to leave when he heard the noise the older ones had warned him about. Slowly the boy turned and saw it. It was about two feet tall and traveled on four legs. The older ones called it a Sepcar. It's mouth opened to hold three rows of razor sharp teeth. It's thick black fur smelled damp and musty. The creature smelled the boy's fear and advanced on it. Neither the creature nor the boy thought anymore of the body that lay close by.

The boy screamed as he backed against a rock. There was no escape from the creature now. He only hoped his screams would bring the elders before it was too late.

The sepcar was only a few feet away from the boy when; the boy noticed the body begin to move. He screamed louder. “HELP ME!”

MacDermott raised his head slowly. It hurt. It hurt badly. He spat out little pieces of moss that were on his lips. He spat the metallic taste of blood out of his mouth.

“HELP ME! PLEASE!” The boy screamed again.

That roused MacDermott. He looked around and saw the creature open it maw to make the boy his dinner. His hand moved and felt the handle of the katana that lay beside. He didn't know why it was there or what he was doing there for that matter. He did know that the boy needed his help. Slowly MacDermott came up behind the creature and in one fast move separated the sepcar's head from its body. As the head fell the razor sharp teeth scratched the boy's arm, instantly drawing blood.

The boy stood shivering in fear as MacDermott came toward him. MacDermott looked worse than the Sepcar as he stood there with blood dried on his face and his arms opened. The boy stepped over the head of the Sepcar to bury his head in the stranger's chest. MacDermott ran his hand through the boy's hair and assured him that everything would be all right. When the boy was calm; Duncan tended to his wounds.

It was then that the two of them heard the cries of a woman piercing the forest. “JAKAR. JAKAR CAN YOU HEAR ME?”

Duncan looked at the boy. “Is that you? Jakar?”

The boy sniffed and nodded. “That's my mother. Odan.”

The boy started to say something else when his mother came around a large rock and saw her son talking to a bloodied, bruised man. She was young and beautiful with brown hair and fair skin. She wore a light white dress that flowed when she walked. Fearing that this unknown man might be dangerous she pulled him away without saying a word.

“Mother, wait. He saved me from the Sepcar and he bandaged my arm.” He said pointing toward his arm that was wrapped in the same blue material that MacDermott wore.

“Is this true?” She asked the stranger.

MacDermott looked at the Sepcar and the katana that lay on the ground next to him. “Yes.”

“What's your name? I want to thank to the man who saved my only son.” She told him.

MacDermott put hand to his head. “I don't know what my name is. I've don't know where I am.”

“You don't know your own name?” She asked not believing him. “Did you fall?”

“I don't know.” He said. “I don't remember anything until I heard your son screaming for help.”

Duncan started to get up off the rock. He shouldn't have. Everything went blurry and started to spin. He put his hand out to balance himself. It didn't help. He started to go down when he felt a strong but soft hand take him and help steady him.

She put his arm around her shoulder and her arm around his waist and for the most part carried him to her home. Jakar followed carrying Duncan's sword clumsily swinging it.

Duncan drifted in and out of consciousness as they walked through the forest. “You can stay in my home until your wounds heal and your memory returns.”

“Commander Ito. How long till we rendezvous with the captain's shuttle?” Costello asked with a smile.

Melora sat up straight and hoped nobody noticed her daydreaming. After looking at her console. A thought of concern passed through her mind. “The captain is overdue to check in.” She said.

“Contact Risa and find out if the captain has left yet.” Amanda ordered.

T'Gerran read the concern on Melora's face. “Aye,”

A moment later the big Klingon said. “Risa reports that the captain left yesterday.”

“Yesterday? The captain's shuttle should be on long range sensors by now.” Costello commented.

Melora looked back at the view screen hiding the worry that began to creep into the edges of her mind. Now what's happened to him? What if he's captured again, or worse, what if he's dead? She forced that thought out of her mind and forced her mind to start looking for MacDermott. “There was that heavy ion storm we caught on sensors 2 days ago. It was in the same direction the captain would have been coming from.”

T'Gerran brought up a display. “The ion storm is at the extreme edge of our sensors. It is dissipating, but it is still an N5.” The Klingon told the bridge crew. An N5 ion storm is near the top of the Nakamita scale of severity. There are only two levels above that. N6 and N7. An N7 storm would produce damage on a system wide scale. An N5 will produce subspace disruptions and make navigation through the area nearly impossible.

Costello turned to the helm. “Set course for the ion storm. Warp 7.”

“Aye.” Kelley said already having the coordinates plotted. The Missouri swung around and flashed into warp.

“ETA 6 hours.” Melora said trying to keep herself busy.

Costello smiled. It silently told Melora not to worry, that they'd find him. “Understood.”

Her husband Derik was a science officer on the Republic. He had put in his request to leave Starfleet so that his wife, son and he could move to the small colony on Sedona III. Odan and Jakar had been here a month already when they received word that the Borg had destroyed the Republic with all hands in their second assault on Earth. Odan fell into a deep depression. If only the Borg had waited another week, if only he'd made his decision a week earlier. If, if, if. After a few weeks she'd come to the conclusion she was wasting herself and the memory of her husband by doing nothing. She took control of her life and never looked back.

She rubbed the communicator under her thumb and made another decision. She removed the communicator from his clothes and hid it among the things in her jewelry box. She returned to the couch with a damp cloth and gently wiped the grime away from his face. She thought to herself. Neither the Borg nor the Dominion will be able to hurt you here. Another feeling crept into her consciousness. A feeling of loneliness. She looked down at him and admired his strong features and handsome face. She looked to the sky and apologized to her husband's spirit for the thoughts she was having, but if she was going to reclaim her life, she was going to reclaim all of, and it had been almost 3 years since she had felt the touch of a man's hand.

ACT 2

The Missouri entered the Sedona system. In the distance the massive ion storm loomed. It's energy flowing in all directions. It was dangerous and beautiful all at the same time. Costello marveled at the power contained in the ion clouds. Then she focused on the duty at hand. She stood up and paced around the bridge. Amanda came to a stop behind Melora. “I want a full sensor sweep of the system.”

Ensign Torbay at the tactical station informed the commander. “That will take 6 days to complete.”

She snapped around and responded a little too harshly. “We will stay as long as it takes. Am I understood?” She respected the Captain, he treated her well. He treated his crew well. Costello hoped to at least find his body for Melora's sake. If he were dead, she'd at least know for sure.

She glared at the young ensign as he stared at the floor. “Yes ma'am.”

“Good, then let's get started.”

“You're awake.” The child said stating the obvious.

Duncan smiled at him. “Yeah, I guess so. Who are you?”

“I'm Jakar. Don't you remember?” The boy asked innocently.

Duncan tried and bits of information came back to him, the smell of the moss, the boy, the Sepcar, and a woman. “I remember pieces.” The image of Duncan beheading the Sepcar came back to him as he saw the sword. “Is that yours?” Duncan asked pointing to the sword.

“No sir. It's yours.” The boy explained as he struggled to hand MacDermott the sword.

Duncan took the sword in his hands. It immediately felt comfortable as he took a defensive stance with it. “It feels like it belongs in my hands. It's a strange feeling.”

The light that was streaming in from the open door was blocked by another figure. Duncan could make out the supple curves of her body as she was silhouetted against the light. “Well it's good to see you up and about.” The faceless voice told MacDermott as she stepped into the room.

“Thank you for helping me.” Duncan said. “My head is still a little sore.”

Odan reached up to adjust the bandage that wrapped around the head of the captain of the Missouri. As a reflex MacDermott brought his hand up. He looked at the woman who helped him. The look in her eyes was calming. He lowered his hands and let her re-bandage his wounds.

Costello fingers rubbed little circles on her temples. The Missouri had been searching for MacDermott's shuttle for over 6 ½ days without as much as an echo. “Anything?” She asked to T'Gerran who'd been hovering over the sensor panel.

“No.” The Klingon responded downheartedly. A second later the computer chirped at him. “Wait. I'm picking up a duranium signal. 347 mark 21. Distance 60 million kilometers.”

Everyone on the bridge perked up at the announcement, especially Melora. Who'd only left the bridge under orders. She knew exactly how Ito felt. Waiting to hear if someone you loved was ever coming back. She cleared her throat. “Helm, match course. Full impulse. Engage.”

The Missouri dipped to the right as she moved toward the piece of debris. Ito brought the sensor display up on the Ops console. She wanted to keep any news to herself. She looked over at T'Gerran whose security console told him of the acquisition of the sensor data. He nodded with a frown. Confirming what she'd seen on the display. The piece of the shuttle was only about 2 meters long. It appeared to be part of one of the nacelles. The Klingon broke the news to the rest of the bridge crew as a tear rolled down her face. The crew was silent.

Costello stood up. “Keep searching.” She ordered as she walked to the Ops station and squatted down next to Ito. “Melora, I'm sorry.”

Melora looked over at her and forced a smile and wiped the tears from her face. Her voice broke as she said. “I know. Thank you.”

MacDermott was sleeping. Odan had made up the spare bedroom for him. He tossed and turned as he slept. The dreams of times and places far away haunted him.

The doors parted and Duncan walked into the room. “Lieutenant Ito, Melora, I was just wondering if you were all right.”

The door from the other room opened and Melora Ito walked out looking anything like but a security officer. She was dressed in a floral print dress, obviously a style from her home in Hawaii. It clung to her body. She had flowers in her hair. She was a vision of beauty. “Duncan,” She whispered. “I'm very happy to see you,” she said.

Her beauty captivated Duncan. He could see that she was attractive, when she was in uniform, but in this dress, she was incredible. Melora walked toward him as MacDermott stood there. Suddenly she was inches away. “Duncan, I have been thinking about this for a long time now.” She kissed the Captain passionately. The Captain of the Missouri kissed her back with the same passion.

The buzzer announced that someone was outside.

“Come.” She said meekly.

Costello entered the room followed by T'Gerran. The big Klingon dwarfed the Commander.

“Melora, it's been a week since we found the segment of the Captain's shuttle. Since then we've found nothing. Not a damned thing.” Costello let her frustration show.

Melora blinked the tears away. “So we're calling off the search?” She asked, already knowing the answer.

“I'm afraid so.” Costello said remorsefully. “Starfleet command has ordered us back to Starbase 325 to pick up crew replacements and reassignment. Melora, I am so sorry. Captain MacDermott was a great, great man.”

The Klingon rumbled. “I too mourn him, but the commander is right. They will sing songs in the great hall to the honor of Captain MacDermott. If they allow humans in Stovokor the Captain will be there with a mug of bloodwine.” T'Gerran said trying to raise her spirits.

Amanda cut her eyes over. She knew that T'Gerran was trying to help, but she knew it wasn't what Melora wanted or needed to hear right now. “There will be a memorial service for the Captain once we reach Starbase 325.” Costello told her.

Melora looked up. “Really?” It seemed the least Starfleet could do after everything MacDermott had done for them. She told herself it was just the shock and suddenness that was making her bitter.

“I need to get back to the bridge.” Costello told her. “If you need any…”

“I'll tell you.” Melora cut her off not entirely on purpose.

“OK.” Costello said as she turned to leave.

T'Gerran turned to follow her. “Tee, wait.” Melora called after him.

Leonheart looked at Costello. The acting Captain turned and nodded to the Klingon, releasing him from his duties. T'Gerran held her as she began to cry.

A few hours later Melora sat alone in MacDermott's quarter. She was going through his things; putting them in boxes to be shipped home. Home. She thought. MacDermott had become such a part of her life she even thought of Scotland as home. She wiped her eyes as she took the broadsword down gently from the wall. It was so heavy she could barely wield it. Ito carefully wrapped the big sword in the tartan that hung on the wall behind the swords. She looked at where the Katana would have hung.

Melora was sitting cross-legged on the bed taking things out of a box Duncan had kept on his dresser. She held the pieces of MacDermott's life in her hands. His academy ring, his ensign's pips, as she reached under his 2 decorations of valor, she noticed the end of an isolinear chip sticking out. Melora picked up the chip, wondering about its contents as she turned the rectangular shape in her fingers. She set the box to one side and walked over to the desk and inserted the chip into the terminal that sat there. An instant later an image of MacDermott appeared on the screen. He was sitting in the same chair that Melora now occupied. He looked sad. Duncan began:

“Melora, if you're seeing this it means you're going though my things; which means I'm dead. I don't want you to be sad. I'll always be with you. I love you more than I can tell you. You are my life. We've been through so much together. I'm going to miss you, I can't think of eternity without you. Please don't be sad.

I made this recording because I felt it coming. I was pushing my luck. Way back when the Missouri took that shot for Gorman, when I went after Gul Dal. If it weren't for Worf, I'd be dead now. Larcano. When I thought I'd lost you; I wanted to die. A part of me did. That's when I made this.

It's sad to think that almost everyone who gets close to me ends up dead. Ian, Dina, Jack and his family, Dad, almost losing you.” Duncan just looked at the screen for a long time. “I love you, Darling. I'll be waiting for you.” The screen returned to the symbol of the Federation.

Melora started to cry again as she stared at the viewer. “I love you too.”

The people in the village stared at Odan and this handsome stranger. Duncan noticed this right away and it lit off a sense of danger. He watched the crowd as they watched him. In the back of his mind he was aware kept track of his surroundings as him and Odan laughed and talked.

Odan stopped in front of a small shop. “I need to stop in here for a few things. I'll just be a few minutes. You can wait out here if you want.”

MacDermott looked up at the twin suns of the Sedona system. The rays felt warm on his face. “I think I will.” He smiled.

Duncan walked around the market place keeping an eye on the door for Odan. He bumped into the back of someone who was a head taller and at least 50 pounds heavier than MacDermott. The man stumbled and then spun around. “Why don't you watch where you are going?” The man snapped.

Duncan looked at the man. “Excuse me. I didn't mean to bump into you.”

The man, Sloane, wouldn't be calmed. He pushed MacDermott back. The Captain of the USS Missouri fell into a cart of mushy fruit. MacDermott looked up. “Listen I don't want any trouble. I said I was sorry.”

“DOESN'T MATTER! Do you know who I am?” He hauled MacDermott up by the tunic. He held him in one hand and brought his fist back to hit MacDermott in the face. “I'll show you, Outsider.” The fist came forward toward MacDermott.

Instinctively MacDermott ducked the punch and grabbed the man's wrist twisting it sharply. The man screamed as his wrist snapped. Duncan spun and caught the side of the man's head with his foot. The man fell to the ground as MacDermott bounced on the balls of his feet, the adrenaline coursing through his veins.

“WHAT ARE YOU DOING?” A female voice said from behind him.

Duncan turned as Odan approached him. “I…” Duncan looked at the man lying on the ground. “I…He attacked me.”

She hurried him along. “Come on. He has a lot of friends. They won't appreciate what you did.”

“But?” He protested.

ACT 3

The Missouri approached the domed shape of Starbase 325. The ship had dropped out of warp at the edge of the system. “We've been cleared for approach.” Melora reported unenthusiastically.

“Very well. Jared, take us in.” Kelley's nimble fingers brought the starship in line with opening space doors. With a press of a button he goosed 120 thousand tonnes of duranium and duraplast forward through the doors.

As the shadow of the space dock swallowed the Missouri so did a feeling of despair; for now they had to say goodbye to one of their own.

The controllers routed the Missouri to her mooring. Past the damaged vessels returning from battles in unnamed systems. Past vessels shiny and new leaving the rear area to go to the front. There was an Akira class vessel that had limped back from her latest skirmish with the Dominion. Black scars on her hull marked where the Jem'Hadar had violated her.

Duncan thought for a moment. “It's none of his business.”

“I know that. That's just the kind of person Sloane is. If he wants something, he keeps going after it until he gets it.” She explained to him.

“Come in.” Came a woman's voice from inside.

Gorman and recognized the voice and entered as soon as the doors parted. Melora was packing some items into a box.

“Commander?” He said quietly.

Melora turned and saw Gorman. When she saw Duncan's friend the emotion started to well up inside her again. She sniffed back a tear. “Captain Gorman, what are you doing here?”

“Call me Shawn. We've known each other too long and this especially is not the time for formality.” Melora noticed he looked sad. “Melora, I'm very sorry, Mac was a good man.”

She forced a smile. “Thanks Shawn. That he was. It's still hard to believe he's gone. I still expect him to walk through that door.” She said as she wrapped her arms around the Special Ops Captain and cried. Gorman held her until her sobs subsided again.

She looked up at him confused. “You never did tell me why you're here.”

Gorman stepped back. “I came to say good-bye to MacDermott and to give the Missouri her new C.O.”

She hadn't thought of that. She didn't like the idea of anyone commanding the Missouri except for Duncan. Melora straightened her uniform. “I thought admirals did that.”

“Normally they do. I called in some markers and Admiral Varvaresos had to attend a conference on Vulcan, so he let me do it.” Gorman explained. “And no, I can't tell you. You can come with me to see Commander Costello though.”

Costello turned half expecting to see MacDermott. Her shoulders visibly slumped with she saw Gorman. She stood and met Gorman and Ito at the edge of the command platform. “Captain Gorman? It's a pleasure to see you again.

“Commander, I'm very to sorry to hear about the loss of Captain MacDermott. He was a good friend, but that's not the only reason I'm here.

“It's not?” Amanda asked skeptically.

Gorman looked around the bridge. “No. I'm also here to transfer command to the new captain of the Missouri.”

“Really?” Amanda didn't sound very enthusiastic about this development.

Gorman snapped to attention and taking their queue from Gorman, Ito and Kelley also snapped to. “Commander Amanda Leann Costello, you are hereby promoted to the rank of Captain with all the duties and responsibilities thereof. Furthermore you are requested and required to take command of USS Missouri NCC-84784-A as of this Stardate. Signed Admiral Thomas Varvaresos Starfleet Command. Commander in chief Morata sector.” Gorman reached up and pinned the forth pip to her collar. “Congratulations Captain Costello.” Gorman shook her hand.

“Thank you, Captain. I hope I'm ready for the big chair full time.”

Gorman took his hand back. “I've read some of your reports. You are. Gorman added. “And Captain. I have a request.”

“Yes?” Amanda answered.

Gorman stood straight and tall. “The crew of the Shadow Horseman and myself would like to take some part in the service for Captain MacDermott. We all owe him our lives. We'd like to do something to say good-bye.”

Amanda admired the loyalty that MacDermott's friends showed him. “Captain Gorman, I couldn't think of anything more appropriate; but I've deferred all decisions to the Captain's memorial service to Commander Ito.” She said with an air of command.

“Shawn, I'd be honored, and I'm sure Duncan would be too, what did you have in mind?” Melora spoke up.

Gorman looked around. “I'm sure there are members of the crew who are going to be pallbearers. Honor guard perhaps?”

“That would be wonderful. Thank you from both of us.” Melora smiled.

Gorman looked down at her and smiled. “It's our pleasure.” Gorman said.

“Very well then, Captain.” Amanda said. “Thank you and I guess we'll see you tomorrow at the service.”

Gorman nodded and Melora escorted him off the bridge. When the two of them were alone Shawn asked. “How are you really doing?”

Melora looked up. Her eyes were dark and empty. “Not so good. Having trouble sleeping, but you don't want to hear all this.”

“I care, Melora, I really do. I consider you and Duncan friends.” Gorman explained.

“Thanks, I know Duncan considered you a friend too.” She said. “And so do I.”

Gorman smiled. “Good. Why don't we have dinner tonight? We can talk. Ok?”

“Ok, maybe I do need to get off the ship for a while.” She said as the doors opened. “See you at the airlock at 1900.”

She watched through the window as the stranger knelt beside her son and explained with his hands the moves he was doing. Odan watched as her son clumsily imitated the moves that MacDermott expertly made.

She looked back at him. “I don't know, human food though.”

Gorman said. “There's a little place on the other side of the station I think you'll like.” He extended his arm.

She interlocked her arm in his. “I'm glad to be off the ship for awhile, it was starting to get to me. Everyone being so nice, offering to take care of me, trying to console me.”

The two of them walked along, Melora was telling Gorman what she knew of MacDermott's life in Starfleet Intelligence. They were passing a crowded noisy bar when they heard a shout. “MELORA! MELORA WAIT!”

She turned in time to see who it was grab her shoulders and kiss her hard. Just as she pushed herself away from this man, he head flinched to one side as Gorman used his thumb to pinch the nerve that runs behind the jawbone. The man squealed in pain. After a second Melora recognized him.

“Shawn wait. Let him go.” She said with a firm hand on Gorman's forearm.

Gorman released his grip. The man rubbed his jaw as he stared at the SpecOps officer. “Who the hell are you?” The stranger asked Gorman with a drunken voice.

“I was about to ask you the same thing, Commander.” Gorman said noticing the pips on his collar.

“Ken, what are you doing here?” Melora asked.

He turned and said. “I'm on assignment for the Federation News Agency. Can you believe it? I'm a war correspondent, with the honorary rank of Lt. Commander. What about you and the giant here?” He said with a thumb pointing at Gorman.

Gorman bristled. “Excuse me?”

Melora put her hand on Gorman's arm again. “Captain Gorman meet Ken Hamilton. Ken meet Captain Gorman.” Emphasizing the word captain to make sure Hamilton got the message.

“SIR.” The commander sloppily snapped to attention. “Begging the Captain's pardon, Sir.”

Gorman decided to make him squirm a little. The little shit deserved it. Gorman hated reporters. All they did was get in the way making his job and his team's job that much harder. “Commander Hamilton, don't move, don't you even breathe, you will stand at attention until I say otherwise. If you so much as twitch, I'll have you writing an exclusive about cleaning waste extractors on a Pakled freighter. Do I make myself clear?”

“YES SIR.”

Gorman smiled, he was enjoying himself. “I'll have one of my officers come and tell you to stand down.”

“YES SIR!”

Gorman and Melora walked off. Hamilton was standing there frozen in the crowded passageway the other people having to walk around him. Gorman smacked his combadge. “Gorman to Mirek.” Gorman said. The irritation put an edge on his voice.

“Mirek here, Sir.”

Gorman smiled. “What are you doing?”

“I was getting ready to go run on the base track.” The voice responded.

Gorman smiled even more. Sometimes things did go his way. “Perfect, stop by that Ferengi bar on the concourse. There's something, I want you to take with you.”

“What is it, Sir?”

Shawn was almost laughing now. “You'll know it when you see it.” He would have loved to have seen Mirek's face when he came across that journalist standing at attention in the middle of the passageway. “And Mirek, run its legs off.”

“Yes Sir.” He said skeptically. “Mirek out.”

“Gorman out.” He looked a Melora, who was looking at him. “Who was that guy?”

“We were friends at the academy.” Was all she said.

Gorman's eyebrow rose. “I had a lot of friends at the academy, I don't kiss them like that.”

“We were good friends.” She said not really wanting to talk about it.

“Oh.”

But she did talk about it. She explained to Gorman how her and Ken had met and had a pretty torrid love affair while they were at the Academy. She was teaching martial arts. He was a journalist. The two of them never talked of marriage, but they were in love. They were until Melora's got tapped for a TDY to Utopia Planitia. Part of her duty was to coordinate security for the Vulcan Ambassador, the late Sarek. He was attending the re-commissioning of the original Missouri. She had been in space dock for over a year undergoing a complete refit. It was there she was introduced to the new captain of the Missouri. A man named Duncan MacDermott.

“After that day my feelings for Ken changed. When I got back to earth I broke it off with Ken and requested starship duty.” She told Shawn finishing her story.

Gorman put his fork down and said. “You uprooted your whole life just on the introduction to MacDermott?”

“Yes.” Was all she said and took a bite of salad.

Gorman shook his head. “He must be more special than I thought. What if it hadn't worked out between the two of you?”

She took a sip of wine. “There was always Special Ops.” She said with a smile.

Gorman laughed, he remembered how angry MacDermott was when he'd offered Melora the position on his team; and how excited she was about it. It gave him an idea. “The offer is still open. The only reason it hasn't been filled yet is the war. There aren't that many qualified people out there. Now with you OPS training, you're even more valuable.”

He saw Melora's face cloud over. “I don't know, Shawn. I don't know if this is the right time.”

Gorman felt bad for even bringing it up. “Melora, of course it isn't the right time, I'm sorry for even bringing it up. It's there if you want it in the future. That's all. No pressure.”

She forced her face into a smile. “Thanks.”

She started to say something else when the waiter brought their food.

ACT 4

The memorial services on the Starbase had become commonplace. More times than not; though there were no bodies in the photon torpedo casings. That was the case with today's service. The glossy black photon casing was on a stand. Draped over the casing was the Federation flag. In the front row of seats sat Melora, on her right sat the new Captain of the Missouri, Amanda Costello, to her right sat Dr. Meyer. Admiral Kelley stood at the podium next to the casket. He began speaking of the tragic losses during war. As the admiral continued, Melora's mind drifted back to Utopia Planitia.

Sarek of Vulcan walked through the passageway to the observation deck. Just ahead of the greatest ambassador in Vulcan history a security team entered the room and fanned out. Ensign Ito stayed near Sarek as he entered the room. Next to her was Sakkath, Sarek's Vulcan attaché. The entourage approached the dais. The Admirals all welcomed Sarek.

The Vulcan said something to Sakkath who in turn addressed the Admirals. “The ambassador would like to meet the new Captain of the Missouri.”

Duncan turned when he heard his name called. He did not offer his hand to the ambassador. MacDermott was aware of the Vulcan's feelings about physical contact. “Ambassador, I am very honored to meet you.” MacDermott said.

“It is I who is honored.” Sarek said. “You have accomplished much in your career. Allow me to introduce my attaché.” Sarek began. “This is she, who is my wife Perrin, my aides Mendrossen and Sakkath.”

MacDermott shook hands with the humans, Perrin and Mendrossen And bowed toward the Vulcan Sakkath.

“I nearly forgot.” Sarek added. “This is my bodyguard, Ensign Ito.” The way he said it. It was like he was reminding everyone that he could still probably kill everyone here with his bare hands. He brought Melora out from behind Mendrossen with a wave of his robed hand. “She has been assigned to guard us from harm at one of the Federation's most secure locations.”

MacDermott was sure he heard sarcasm in Sarek's voice. “It's very nice to meet you, Ensign.” He said as he shook Melora's hand.

“Thank you, Captain. Congratulations on your command.” She said looking at his handsome face and brown eyes. She could still feel his grip as her hand fell back to her side.

“Thank you, Ensign.” MacDermott smiled.

The sound of bagpipes brought Melora back to the present. She watched as two members of Gorman's SpecOps team folded the Federation flag. The other members of Gorman's crew formed an honor guard with the Flag of the Federation in the middle, the banner of the 5th fleet to one side and a replica of the old Scottish national flag on the other. The folded Federation flag was given to Admiral Kelley. The Admiral in turn presented the flag to Melora. Captain Costello had arranged that. As the strains of Amazing Grace waned, T'Gerran, Kelley, Connor O'Roarke and Gorman took positions at the four corners of the casket. With hand held anti-gravs they picked up MacDermott's empty casket and carried it out of the room. Once the casket was gone, people started to whisper amongst themselves. Then people got up and began to work their way past Melora and Costello. They expressed their sorrow at the loss of MacDermott and wished them well in the future. Melora had tears in her eyes as Admiral Kelley approached, followed by his son, Jared. “Commander Ito, I'm very sorry about the loss of Captain MacDermott. Jared told me you two were very close.” Kelley said shaking Melora's hand. “If there is anything I can do for you, please contact me.”

“Thank you, Admiral.” Melora responded. “If everyone will excuse me, it's been a long day.” She began to move through the crowd.

“Of course.” The admiral said graciously.

Melora almost made it the door before she started crying again. Ken Hamilton watched silently as she walked through the door.

Duncan woke suddenly; the pounding in his head woke him from a dream. She was there again, the mysterious woman of his dreams. This time the two of them were on the edge of a lake, behind them were the ruins of a castle. The large stones were broken and covered in moss. They lay in each other's arms as the clouds rolled by.

MacDermott got out of bed and walked over to the washbasin. He splashed cold water on his face and looked in the mirror. Even in the dark room he knew he looked like hell. The reflection in the mirror showed the open window behind him. It was hours before sun up. He turned around to return to his bed, when he saw Odan standing in the doorway. She stood there with her arms folded in front of her. MacDermott couldn't help buy notice the bare leg that showed from between the folds of her robe. When she became aware of his gaze she shifted so her leg was covered.

“I'm sorry. I didn't mean to wake you.” MacDermott said.

She looked at him. “It's all right. I was awake anyway. What's wrong?”

“I had another one of those dreams again.”

“The same woman?” She asked hoping she would take her place in his dreams.

“Yeah. I just wish I knew who she was and why she's always in my mind.” He said sitting on the edge of the bed holding his head in his hands.

She walked up to him and ran her fingers through his hair gently. “It'll be fine.” He looked up at her. She pointed at the middle of his forehead. “The answers to all your questions lie within.” She told him. “Now go back to sleep. The harvest festival is tomorrow.”

“Harvest Festival?” He asked.

She tucked him in motherly. “Yes. It's a celebration of another successful growing season.”

“I'm not sure if I'll be welcome.” He responded.

She walked back to the door. “It'll be fine.”

Melora walked onto the bridge of the Missouri. It was lonely and quiet. She took turn over from the officer of the deck. It didn't take long with them being in space dock. They were going back out on patrol though. She settled into her chair to the left of the command platform and logged into the ship's computer system. Casually, she read through the previous two shift's logs. Nothing. A deuterium leak, which was found and corrected within a few minutes. Melora read through the flight plan. Nothing. A boring patrol route away from the front lines.

Melora thought of her conversation with Gorman the other night. She'd thought of his offer often over the last couple of days. There was nothing holding her here now. Sure, she had friends on board, but there was nothing to keep her here like before. Ito thought of how she uprooted her life to come to MacDermott, now she was going to do it again to get away from the memories of what they could have had. The turbolift doors parted with a swish. Captain Costello walked out of the turbo lift. “Captain on the bridge.” Melora called out.

“Good morning, Commander.” She replied.

“Captain.” Melora responded with a nod.

The doors opened again and T'Gerran and Kelley walked out and took their positions. Kelley quickly entered their flight plan into the navigational computer. T'Gerran brought the sensors online and ran a quick diagnostic of them and the weapons systems. One should never be caught off guard.

Melora thought how she would miss all of them, but her mind was made up. She turned and walked toward the center seat. “Captain, may I see you for a moment?” She said. “In private.” She finished.

Costello raised an eyebrow. “Of course.” She turned to the tactical station. “T'Gerran, you have the conn.”

“Aye, Ma'am.”

The doors to the ready room closed behind them. Costello turned and faced Melora. “What can I do for you, Melora?”

“I'm sorry, Captain. I know this is a bad time.” She handed Costello a pad. “This is my request for transfer.”

Costello took a moment to read over the form. “Special Ops?”

“Yes Ma'am. Captain Gorman told me there was a spot available.”

“I see.” The new captain of the Missouri replied. “May I ask why?” Amanda already knew the answer.

Melora said quietly. “No offense, but I need to move on.”

“This has nothing to do with Captain MacDermott's death?” Costello asked. She knew it did, but didn't dwell on the subject.

Melora responded. “I think you know the answer.”

“Yes I do.” She said lowering her eyes to the floor. “I'll sign the orders and it should be approved by the time we get back. “ Costello said. “A week.”

“Thank you, Amanda.”

Amanda nodded. “I'll miss you, Commander, but good luck.”

“Thank you, Captain. Could we keep this quiet for now?”

Amanda smiled thinly. “Of course.”

The market place at the center of the settlement was crowded with people, tables of food. Over the tables hung lanterns that lit up the night. To one side a small band played as people drank and danced. MacDermott, Odan and the boy, Jakar walked among the people. A man bumped his shoulder into MacDermott as they walked. The man mumbled something that MacDermott couldn't hear. Duncan swiveled his head to look at the man. Odan told him it was an accident and not to be so suspicious of people. “We're here to celebrate and have a good time.” She admonished him with a smile.

Jakar went off to play with the other children. Duncan brought Odan a glass of the dark red wine. “To Odan.” He said. “To the woman who brought me back to health.” Duncan finished with a smile as he raised his glass to her.

She smiled and lowered her eyes to the ground, embarrassed. “Thank you.”

“You're very welcome. Would m'lady like to dance?”

She curtsied. “I'd be honored, Sir.”

Duncan felt a twinge of pain in his head. “Must be the wine.” He thought as he shook off the pain. Duncan put his left arm around Odan and she put her right arm around him. Their other arms up in the air. As they danced around Duncan looked down and watched his feet.

The band started another song. A slow number. Odan's arms went around Duncan's neck as he put his hands on her hips. The two of them swayed to the music.

“Melora.” He said quietly.

Startled she spun around. “Ken, what are you doing here?”

“I was hoping we'd have a chance to talk without Captain Gorman around.” Hamilton said bitterly.

She looked at him. “Ken, I don't think we have anything to talk about anymore.”

T'Gerran couldn't help but hear the exchange between the two of them. He watched out of the corner of his eye as he continued to workout.

“Melora, I haven't stopped thinking about you the last couple of years. My feelings haven't changed.” He said forcefully.

T'Gerran put the weights down when he heard the tone of Hamilton's voice.

“Ken, don't do this. I want to remember to you, as things were, not like this. Not angry.” She said softly.

Hamilton took her by the elbow. His grip startled her. “Let go, Ken.”

“I just want to talk to you. It's been two years. You just up and left me two years ago. Why, because you thought you were in love with that starship captain. Why did you really leave me? I just want to know.”

Melora pulled against his grip. “KEN, LET GO!” She said loudly. The other people in the room stopped and turned at the commotion. T'Gerran rose slowly from the weight to go in defense of his friend. It wasn't necessary. “Let go now, Ken.” She warned him in a low voice.

He didn't hear her or didn't listen. Melora grabbed his wrist with her free hand and twisted. The pain that shot up his arm forced him to release her other arm. Now free, she spun and threw him over her hip in one fluid motion. Melora twisted his arm high behind his back. Dr. Meyer would have to repair the tendons in his shoulder later. Ito's knee fit into the crook of his neck as he lay face down on the floor. Satisfied he wasn't going anywhere; she tapped her combadge. “Ito to security.”

“Security here.”

“Come down to the rec room and escort Commander Hamilton to his quarters.” She ordered.

“Aye Ma'am. Security out.”

She looked down at Hamilton. She felt angry and sorry for him all at the same time. “Ken, I don't ever want to see you again.” She got up and walked out of the rec room.

T'Gerran smiled at Hamilton lying there on the floor as the two security men walked into the room.

ACT 5

“I really love it here.” MacDermott whispered as he held Odan close to him. They were dancing slowly. He was developing feelings for her. Even though the mystery woman still haunted his dreams.

“Good.” She replied and pulled him tighter against her.

As the two of them danced they became aware they were people standing around them. Duncan stopped dancing and faced the two men.

The dour faced men watched the stranger cautiously, before the largest one spoke. “Mr. Sloane would like to see you.” He said it in a tone the Duncan knew better than to refuse.

“I'm busy, right now.” MacDermott said turning back to his date.

The big one reiterated his request with a word. “Now.” He pulled his jacket back to reveal a small phaser.

MacDermott looked back to Odan. “That's a hell of a way to cut in. I always wanted to dance with the girl though.” He said with a shrug. “Who wants to lead boys?”

“They're not playing.” Odan warned him.

MacDermott looked over his shoulder. “Get some wine. I'll be right back.”

Costello sat behind the desk in the spartan ready room. Even though it was hers she was reluctant to decorate it. Amanda had decided to wait until Melora's transfer went through. Just to be considerate of her feelings. She looked at the man across the desk from her standing at attention. Costello saw the bruise on his neck and smiled to herself. Serves him right. She thought to herself. Amanda rubbed the bridge of her nose between her thumb and forefinger before she spoke. “Commander Hamilton. I know that is only an honorary rank. Still there are proper methods of conduct. Trying to forcibly remove a member of my crew is not one of them.” She stood up and walked around the desk. She circled him like a vulture going for a carcass. “You are a guest here and should be treated as such, however if you abuse those privileges, well I wouldn't have blamed her if she'd torn your arm off and beat you with it. Except for when you are actually working, you are confined to quarters for the remainder of your stay with us. You are not to contact Commander Ito in any way, shape or form. IS THAT CLEAR?”

Hamilton responded staring at the floor. “Yes Ma'am.”

“What do you want?” MacDermott asked impatiently.

Sloane looked up at him. “I want to know who you are, and why you are on my planet?”

“Go to hell.”

That remark earned MacDermott a shot in the kidneys. He coughed as he doubled over. He eyes shot over at the man who hit him. “You know I was in an accident and lost my memory.” He said. “Is this because you're jealous of my staying in Odan's house?”

“Oh Odan will be mine when you're gone. Have no doubt of that.” Sloane spat.

MacDermott looked at him. “She doesn't want to be with you. Can't you get that through your thick head?”

“We'll see. I think the real reason you're here is to bring me in. I bet you're working for the federation justice department. They sent you to arrest me.” He said before adding skeptically. “And you had some sort of accident.”

“You're craz”

“Take him out and kill him.” Sloane ordered. “Then bring Odan to me.”

The men responded. “Yes sir.”

“If you touch her Sloane; I'll kill you.” MacDermott threatened.

Sloane ignored the threat as MacDermott was pushed from the room.

Amongst the trees and the foliage the three of them walked. MacDermott followed by the two men. Duncan knew one of them had a phaser. “Stop.” The man with the phaser said as they entered a clearing. The two moons of Sedona III were visible in the sky. “Get down on your knees.” The men were going to kill MacDermott in the classic execution position: a shot to the back of the head while the victim is down on his knees.

Duncan resisted. The other man grabbed his shoulders and started to force him down when the light of the moon was obscured by two Jem'Hadar vessels that flew overhead toward the settlement. Something flashed in Duncan's mind. He recognized those ships.

“What the hell was that?” The man with the phaser asked.

“I don't know.” The other one reported. Duncan sunk down to his knees as the men continued to look up at the sky. In the dark Duncan hefted the branch that lay on the ground in front of him. He turned his head slightly. He could see them two of them in his peripheral vision. They were still looking up.

Time stood still as Duncan slowly stood up again, hiding the branch against his body. The largest man noticed Duncan on his feet again. “On your knees.” He ordered.

“Go to hell.” He said as he spun and hit the one with the phaser across the face with the piece of wood. He was caught off guard. The phaser flew from his grip and his head snapped to one side. He fell to the ground as blood ran from his ears and nose. Before the first one had hit the ground Duncan hit the other with a spin kick in the chest. The man flew back and landed hard on his back. He gasped as the breath was knocked out of his body. As the man tried to regain his breath Duncan scrambled to find the phaser. His hands rummaged through the leaves and the underbrush.

The man got up and pulled a knife from the scabbard on his ankle. “I'm going to enjoy killing you, you sonofabitch.” He advanced toward MacDermott.

MacDermott still rummaged when his hand ran across something that felt man made. It was the phaser. He rolled to his right and fired the phaser just as the man was about to pounce on him. The man never saw it coming. The clearing lit up as phaser fired and the man was simply gone.

Duncan lay there for a moment catching his breath. He could hear explosions in the distance. He got to his feet and ran toward the settlement as fast as he could. The small branches whipped against his face and cut his skin as he ran.

Costello swiveled the command chair around. “What does it say?”

“We are ordered to Sedona III.” Instantly he realized why the name sounded familiar. He glanced toward Melora. She bit her lower lip as she returned his gaze. “The Jem'Hadar have attacked the Federation settlement there. We are ordered to provide aid and protect the settlement from any further attacks.

“Helm. Set course for…”

“Course plotted and laid in, Captain. Warp 9.5, at your command.”

Costello smiled at the helmsman. “Engage.”

At the touch of a button, the Missouri jumped toward the point where her Captain had been lost.

As the sun rose on a new day Duncan's eye caught a reflection. As he pulled the rubble away from his sword he caught sight of Jakar's body. He had been holding the sword when the structure collapsed on him. Duncan touched the boy's throat to feel for a pulse. There was none. MacDermott cried as he uncovered the rest of the corpse. He carried Jakar's body to where the survivors were preparing the dead for burial.

“ODAN, ODAN?” Duncan yelled, hoping to find her alive.

One of the settlers approached him cautiously. “Odan is over here. She is badly hurt. Come with me.” She said.

Duncan followed her. The settlers had set up a hospital in the shell of the schoolhouse. MacDermott found Odan lying on the floor. There weren't enough cots for everyone. She was burned and bloodied. The people there had made her as comfortable as possible. Duncan looked at one of the people working inside. The woman knew what he wanted to know without him having to ask. She simply shook her head no. The tears left streaks down his face as he held her.

“Very good, T'Gerran. I want two teams. T'Gerran, I want you to lead a fully armed security squad and look for Dominion troops. I will lead a team that will go with Dr. Meyer and her med team to the settlement and see what we can do for the survivors.” Costello laid out for the senior staff.

“Captain.” Melora began. “I have to remind you that it's against Starfleet regulations for the commanding officer to beam into a potentially hostile situation.”

Costello thought for a moment. “I had enough trouble thinking of myself as a first officer. You're right though, Commander. Lt. Commander Ito will be leading the other team. Questions?” There were none. “Good. Let's get down there and help those survivors.”

Ito and T'Gerran nodded and headed for the turbolift.

Twenty minutes later Melora and her team materialized on the outskirts of the settlement. Ironically it was the same place that MacDermott had first viewed the destruction of the settlement. She was awed at the level of destruction. She regained her focus and pointed toward the area where the largest group of survivors seemed to be located.

They entered the makeshift hospital. Doctor Meyer immediately broke her team up for triage duties; while Melora contacted the Missouri and reported the situation to the Captain. “…they could use all the building supplies and replicators we can spare. “ She reported.

“Understood. Keep me informed. Missouri out.” Costello said.

Melora wondered through the hospital. She was about to leave when she noticed something that looked familiar. She looked harder and started to walk toward it. She stopped short when she recognized it as MacDermott's sword. “Maybe part of the shuttle soft landed?” She said to herself. Her breathing got faster. She peered around the curtain. A man was holding a woman. She looked, even to Melora's untrained eye, to be in bad shape. “Excuse me, but…”

“Yes? May I help you?” Duncan turned and responded.

Her heart nearly jumped out of her chest when she looked into his brown eyes. “Duncan? It's me.”

His eyes hinted at the recognition he felt. “Duncan? Is that my name? I don't know what my name is. But I've seen you before. In my dreams.”

She knelt down beside and looked at the woman he held in his arms. Melora wondered who she was and why he cared for her so much. “Duncan, you're Captain Duncan MacDermott of Starfleet.” She told him. “You've been missing for over two months.”

Duncan picked up on the way she was looking at Odan. “She saved me. Odan nursed me back to health.”

“Duncan, stay here. I'll be right back.” Melora told him. Then she was off to find Doctor Meyer.

Duncan looked back at Odan. He was confused. The woman of his dreams was real. Odan was here; she was real too. What had she called him? Captain Duncan MacDermott? Yeah, that was it. Odan was barely conscious. “Everything is going to be fine.”

“No it's not.” She coughed. “You belong with them.” Another cough. “I didn't want to be alone anymore.” She sighed. “I'm sorry. I knew. My…pocket.” Her body spasmed. Duncan reached into the pocket of her torn and blackened dress she wore and retrieved the communicator. He rubbed it with his thumb. The shape was familiar. “I'm so sorry…so lonely.”

“Shh, it's all right.” Duncan told her. He brushed the hair back from her face.

“Jakar?” She whispered but she already knew the answer.

Duncan frowned, fighting back the tears.

She coughed again. “He was so young. His whole life.” She coughed hard again.

Meyer pulled the curtain back. “Captain MacDermott? Let me check you out. “ She said, her tricorder in hand.

“No. Help her.” He said still holding her. His eyes pleaded.

Meyer looked to Melora. Ito nodded yes. Meyer ran the tricorder over Odan's body. Meyer looked to Ito. The look in the Doctor's eyes told the whole story. “Captain, there's nothing we can do. If we'd gotten here sooner.” She moved the scanner to MacDermott's head. “You've had a major concussion. There is still has some swelling. That's probably what's affecting your memory. When we get you back to the ship I'll be able to get that swelling down and everything will be fine.” She told him, the last part more for Melora than anything else.

The Doctor disappeared around the curtain again. “Duncan do you know of any other survivors?” Now that he was safe she could get back to the task at hand.

“Sloane.” Duncan said with contempt. “Small building north of the settlement. Another man in a clearing near there. He's hurt.” Duncan reported.

She tapped her communicator. “T'Gerran. It's Melora. There may be survivors north of the settle…”

She stopped when Duncan grabbed her arm. “Sloane is dangerous.”

She stepped around the curtain. “T'Gerran, north of the settlement. And be careful. She knew that T'Gerran would find out about the captain soon enough.

Melora was standing there. When Duncan appeared behind her. “You've been in my dreams.” He told her.

Melora jumped at the sound. “What?”

“My dreams. You've been in my dreams. Every night I see you, but now… I still don't know who you are or who I am. Odan is gone; just now. Would you help me?” He said taking her hand. You're the only person I recognize.”

“Of course, Duncan. I love you.” Melora told him and smiled.

It was the first time Sloane had seen MacDermott in uniform. He was taken aback by his appearance. Quickly he put up a false front of bravado. “What the hell are you doing barging in here like this?”

MacDermott ignored him for the most part until he was right up in Sloane's face. “This is my ship. You don't control anything or anyone.” Duncan told him blatantly flaunting his power.

“Ah Starfleet arrogance.” Sloane began. “I was right about you all along.”

MacDermott was at the brink of losing his control. “You were going to have me killed. You sonofabitch. I wasn't on a secret mission. My shuttle crashed coming back from vacation. I should have left you on Sedona alone. If it weren't for Starfleet you'd be dead. You'd be in that cemetery back on Sedona.” MacDermott turned to leave. “You're a fool.”

Sloane laughed. “I'm a fool? I'm not the one who's risking his life for nothing. At least when I risk my life I get something out of it. The federation is a bunch of fools. It's a miracle you've not been destroyed already...,” he spouted, …like everyone on Sedona. You and your Starfleet couldn't save them.” Sloane finished with a smirk. The dead on Sedona III flashed through MacDermott's mind. Duncan spun and wrapped his hands around Sloane's throat and began to squeeze. MacDermott pushed Sloane back over a table as he choked him. “You don't deserve to be here. A lot of good people died back there, but you didn't. You bastard. You're nothing but a common criminal. Life in a penal colony. You got off lucky. You desecrate their memories.”

Duncan looked in the mirror over the table into his own eyes. He saw the rage, the hate. MacDermott looked down at Sloane, the smugness was replaced with fear as he gasped for breath. Duncan could hear Odan in his mind telling him to stop. He released his grip on Sloane and walked out the door without a word.