DJMcKinny

Her name was Jenny. The tricorder revealed much about her. She was a human female in her mid-thirties but she looked much older, undoubtedly the result of long term malnutrition. Her skin was dry and scaly....her gums swollen and bleeding. She'd already lost several teeth and many others were so badly decayed they were beyond saving. There was evidence of osteoporosis as well. She presented with a slight fever probably from an intestinal parasite. Her autoimmune system was a grave concern. The markers were nominal. It was surprising she hadn't died of some mundane bacterial infection. Incredibly, there were no signs of organ failure. The acutely underweight woman had managed to scavenge enough food to keep her body functioning although her blood pressure and pulse were both marginally higher than normal. DJ was fairly certain that was due to the stress of her recent capture. But there was much more about Jenny the tricorder could not reveal. So, McKinny started asking questions, slowly and carefully so as not to further alarm her patient. Jenny answered just as slowly and carefully. It seemed as though she wanted to tell her story but was afraid of giving out too much information. She'd been captured by the Breen about seven years earlier. Her parents were killed when their ship was attacked but she and her three year old son survived. She was sent to work in a dilithium mine but she didn't know where. Her young son accompanied her into the mine. What she really wanted now was proper medical treatment for her son, the preteen blonde who remained huddled with the group of stowaways still awaiting their medical evaluations. DJ looked into the woman's beleaguered eyes as they furtively glanced at the boy. "Please. He's sick," she pleaded in a raspy whisper. McKinny studied the boy for a long moment while tamping down a sudden wave of grief and anger.. It was obvious these people had been abused. She couldn't imagine the heartache of the parents as they valiantly struggled to protect and provide for their children. "Don't worry," replied DJ reassuringly. "We'll take care of him." Jenny drew a deep breath or it may have been a sigh of relief. "His name is Kevin. He's ten." DJ personally fetched the boy from the cordoned off area of Sickbay where security personnel guarded the hapless band of stowaways. He kept his eyes fixed on his mother who wordlessly assured him it was okay to take the doctor's hand. A moment later, young Kevin was sitting on the bed next to his mom, watching intently as the nurse started an IV drip to rehydrate her. He was also fascinated by the tricorder and quick to ask questions about the many new sights and sounds he was experiencing. In short, he was mentally alert and that was a very good sign. A quick scan indicated the boy was running a slight fever. His blood pressure was normal but his heart and pulse rates were elevated. There seemed no reason for that other than excitement. A relatively common parasite had taken up residence in his intestines. That was probably causing the fever but it was easily treatable. All in all, young Kevin was in much better condition than his mother. DJ assumed that was because Jenny had routinely given most of her food allotment to the boy. While DJ prepared a dose of Nitazoxanide for both of her patients, she quietly observed them interacting. Jenny was far more tentative than her son. Perhaps that was to be expected. Granted, Kevin had experienced traumas no child should ever have to live through. But it was his mother who had to endure the additional burden of raising a child in slavery, watching helplessly as their masters dictated their fates with no concern for her son's well being, her young boy's future, lost forever. The guilt, although probably misplaced, would surely be formidable. And then other questions came to mind. Exactly how did these pitiful souls sneak onto the station? How long had they been here? Why was it nobody knew about them until now? They had to be resourceful to have survived the Breen but still, Aegis had the most sophisticated security systems available. Apparently, these rawboned stowaways managed to not only circumvent those systems when they first boarded, they evaded detection for a considerable length of time afterward. DJ was sure the powers that be would conduct extensive interviews with the stowaways once they were released from Sickbay. In the meantime, she kept wondering why. Why, after they escaped from the Breen, did these former slaves steal onto Aegis and hide out in the J-tubes? Why didn't they come forward immediately upon arrival and ask for help? Who or what were they afraid of? There was only way to find out. She was going to ask Jenny. DJ only hoped she was ready for the answer.

DJ swore she wouldn't look back.....but she did. Even before the cruise liner left the docking station, she knew it would be impossible not to. She'd expected to find herself on a Starfleet transport, not a high class, civilian cruise ship. Not that she was complaining, but had this been a run of the mill transport, she could have gotten away without taking one, last look at Skyharbor Aegis. As it was, she was seated on the starboard side by a window...not a port hole....a bona fide window. Gilbert was in the seat beside her. He'd been certified "nonviolent" so she would be able to let him out once they went to warp but for now, he remained in his travel crate. She'd spent her last hour on the station walking him to insure there would be no accidents while he was caged. Still, he panted impatiently, waiting for the moment when she would finally open the crate's door. Every seat on the cruise liner had it's own, private view screen. For now, the only images available were those from the ship's onboard cameras. And the only subjects the cameras had to record were the station and the stars surrounding it. So, even is she didn't look out the window, there was no escaping the image of Skyharbor Aegis. The hostess had just finished explaining the "emergency escape protocols" when the Captain's voice came over the comm. He stated that the ship had just passed the station's inner navigation markers and would be going to warp in a couple of minutes. He spoke in a near monotone which indicated he'd given this speech a zillion times before. The Captain then suggested passengers on the starboard side might want to look out their windows for a final glimpse of the twin pylon mammoth called Aegis Those on the port side would have to be content with their view screens. DJ studied the view screen for a few seconds before giving in. She leaned forward a bit and peeked out the window. And there it was, glistening like a beacon in a vast, ebony void. The station's former CMO smiled sadly. She would miss this place and the people, especially those she'd worked with. Since she received her new orders, she often wondered if she would see this place and these people again. That was especially true of Dr. Nicolas Lepage. He'd tagged along with them on Gilbert's final stroll through the dog walk. He'd wanted to escort them to the docking port but DJ wouldn't allow it. They'd said their final good-bye in the privacy of her empty quarters. Suddenly, the ship's warp drive engaged and the station was gone, left behind them in the blink of an eye. The image of Aegis remained on the view screen for a few moments longer before it, too, disappeared, replaced by a menu of movies, games, and assorted programs for the passengers to enjoy during their long voyage. DJ removed her seat belt. Leaning over, she opened the door to Gilbert's crate and helped the hefty Basset onto her lap. He sat quietly, contented to finally be out of the cage. "So, what do you think?" asked DJ, scratching her companion behind his lengthy ears. "Will we ever come this way again?" Gilbert turned to look at her, his tongue hanging limply from his partially open mouth while his deep brown eyes glistened and his tail wagged. DJ smiled at him through misty eyes. "You're right," she whispered, hugging him a bit closer. "There are always possibilities."

Robby hadn't been joking. And there hadn't been a misunderstanding or a miscommunication either. The orders had finally arrived and been confirmed as legitimate. DJ was now in receipt of the official notice from Starfleet Personnel, Medical Division, ordering her to report to her new assignment at Eglin in the Florida Panhandle in ten days. "Ten days," mumbled DJ as she sat in her quarters, the lights dimmed, trying to wrap her brain around all that was going on. She glanced around and shook her head slightly. "It will take ten days just to pack." And that's what she was going to do.....pack up and return to Earth....to a new assignment....a new challenge. She'd decided not to appeal the orders even before they'd arrived. Postings like this came around once in a blue moon. As she told Nick Lepage the day before, she'd be crazy to pass it up. Although, the time table had taken her by surprise. She had expected three or four weeks to get there. She looked down as Gilbert started licking her knee again. It was well past his walk time. DJ smiled at her canine friend as she stood. "Guess we'd better get you out of here before I have something else to clean up." Grabbing the leash off the end table, she headed toward the door where Gilbert was already waiting. As she opened the door and followed him out into the corridor, DJ turned her thoughts to her next move. In the morning, she would make the official announcement to her staff. Command already knew but she would meet with the Captain and Commander Hawke as protocol required. And then....then, she would recruit as many people as she could to help her pack.

Produced by Drs. Nick Lepage and DJ McKinny Nick looked up from his work. He had just been filing reports, a task on which he was at least one week behind. Right now he needed a break from the paperwork. Since all the patients were well cared for by the rest of the medical staff and none was in so critical a condition that they needed a doctor's attention right now he walked over to the replicator to get himself a coffee. As he retrieved the mug he realised that he hadn't seen DJ in a while. She must have been here while he'd been in the labs earlier. Nick shrugged and ordered a second cup of coffee from the computer. He picked it up and walked to DJ's office. Ringing the chime he hoped she would be there. After a moment he heard a voice from within telling him to enter. Stepping through the doorway Nick glanced around the chief's office and smiled as his glance fell on DJ. She smiled back at him but somehow Nick couldn't help but think something was wrong. “I brought you some coffee,” Nick offered, walking up to the desk and putting the mug in front of DJ. She nodded and smiled gratefully. Nick frowned slightly but decided not to ask for the moment. “I wanted to talk to you about a research project I'd like to start. It's about the treatment of Myasthenia gravis with cholinesterase inhibitors. I read an article the other day and I had some ideas I would like to try.” DJ couldn't help but chuckle. At the same time, she wondered if Nick was really interested in another research project. Or, was this a ploy to open a conversation that might lead to her explaining why she'd been holed up in her office for the better part of six hours. It had been almost that long since DJ received the unexpected call from her brother... a call that left her emotions bouncing around like an errant ping pong ball. Robby wanted her to know she was being transferred and it wasn't just any transfer either. It was a plum assignment, on Earth no less....just the type of posting DJ had dreamed of before coming to Aegis. So why did she feel so ambivalent about leaving this aging station stuck so far out in the galaxy it usually took two to three weeks to receive a package from home. The answer came to her even before she'd finished asking herself the question. One of the reasons she'd hate to leave was now slouched in a chair across from her desk, carefully cradling a cup of coffee in both hands. "I'm impressed with your quest for knowledge, Nick," said DJ with a smile. "But when was the last time you saw a patient with Myasthenia gravis?" Nick grinned and looked at his chief for a moment before answering. "To tell you the truth...I never have but you know, it could interest others who treat these patients. I know it's a rare disease but... ah who am I kidding?" He paused and sighed. "I thought you might want to talk. DJ, you've been in here for an eternity. I just...wanted to make sure you're ok." He looked at McKinny, expecting she would tell him to mind his own business but hoping she would tell him at least a bit about what was troubling her. He had no idea what it could be. Having read DJ's file, Nick knew about her past. Maybe today would have been her husband's birthday? Maybe it was their anniversary? Whatever it was, he was sure DJ would feel better if she talked about it instead of locking herself into her office. The CMO leaned back in her chair and grinned. "That's what I thought," she said knowingly. "Your request would have been a little more credible had you chosen a less exotic disease. But I will give you credit for your ingenuity." “My ingenuity's always been my downfall. My excuses are usually so ingenuous that noone ever believes them. Makes me a lousy liar, too.” Lepage smiled and watched his chief, not breaking the silence while she seemed to be considering what exactly to tell him. She took a sip of the coffee and frowned slightly. DJ had always enjoyed the aroma more than the flavor but she couldn't refuse the much needed caffeine. Lepage was right, she'd been in her office for what seemed like an eternity, mulling over her transfer options. She was a little closer to making a decision than she had been when she started but, for the most part, she remained ambivalent. In the meantime, her brain was turning to mush. The caffeine might help solidify it again, at least for an hour or two. So, DJ took another sip of the coffee before setting the mug down on her desk. "I've been thinking," she said slowly. It was the truth. That's about all she'd been doing for the past five or six hours. But now she found herself at a crossroads. Should she tell Lepage what was on her mind or concoct some wild story? Would she continue with the truth or tell a lie? She hadn't received the transfer orders Robby insisted were on their way. They probably wouldn't arrive for another day or two, maybe longer considering the current crisis. What if Robby was wrong? What if the new orders never came? How would it look if she told Lepage she was being transferred back to Earth only to find out it was all a big mistake? DJ smiled at the young physician sitting across from her. "I may be leaving Aegis," she remarked softly. She shook her head slightly as she finished speaking. She hadn't been aware she'd chosen to go with the truth until she heard the words herself. "I haven't received the orders yet," she continued quickly. "Someone tipped me off about them. I've been trying to decide if I should appeal or accept the transfer....if there really is a transfer." Nick had just taken a sip from his coffee. When he heard DJ say she may be leaving the station he choked. It took him a few moments to recover from the news. “Wow...leaving Aegis, huh? I hope they're offering you a good job. You deserve it.” Nick tried to look cheerful but he didn't quite manage. He stared down at the cup in his hand. After a moment he looked back up. “Whatever you decide just make sure you're happy with the decision. Life's too short to be regretting things.” The CMO studied the painting hanging on the wall behind Dr. Lepage. She needed a moment to consider her options. Should she tell him where she was going or wait until the orders actually arrived? She quickly chose option two. "It's a nice assignement," she stated flatly. "But you know how it is.....starting over in a new place. At the same time, I would be crazy to turn this one down." At those last words Nick grinned again. “Which means I'll absolutely have to know whether or not you leave at least two weeks beforehand.” He didn't elaborate, hoping DJ would ask him to explain. "This is probably my brother's warped idea of a joke," chuckled DJ. As she made the remark, she thought back to her conversation with Robby. He hadn't mentioned anything about when she would have to report to Eglin. Then again, her reaction to the transfer news wasn't what Robby expected. He thought DJ would be jumping for joy. He'd been taken aback when she suggested she might appeal the orders. And that was another thing that irked DJ. Wasn't it customary to put out feelers prior to transferring someone of her rank and seniority. She knew that sort of thing happened all the time. On at least two separate occasions, she, herself, had been asked how she thought a particular senior officer might like a transfer to such and such a place. When she replied that she didn't know, she was encouraged to discreetly find out. There was an opening and if so and so was interested, he or she was sure to get the job. But they didn't want to put the name in unless so and so was really interested. DJ was fairly certain no one on her staff had been asked if she would like to transfer to Eglin. Maybe the powers that be went to Robby instead. She decided that was probably what happened. After all, he'd been instrumental in getting her the Aegis assignment in the first place. Still, if they had approached Robby, why didn't he feel her out about it before making a commitment? Her brain started feeling mushy again so DJ quickly reached for the coffee mug and took a long drink. It was almost strong enough to make her hair stand on end. She returned the mug to the desk and looked at Nick Lepage. He was dying for her to ask so she obliged. "So, why the two week notice?" Nick blushed ever so slightly. He wished he'd have a bit more time. “If this is really just a joke I absolutely need to meet your brother. He must have an excellent sense of humour.” He paused and looked around the room. Taking a deep breath he decided to just ask and be prepared for the worst. “I need the two week notice to...well... find an evening when we both have time. I had thought about dinner... just you and I...” Nick started feeling uneasy. He was almost sure DJ would decline his invitation. But, had he not asked her he would probably have regretted it, always wondering what her answer would have been. He tried to interpret DJ's expression. At least she was polite enough to pretend to be considering his invitation seriously. He tried to stop telling himself that DJ would never have dinner with him and waited for her answer instead. “You and my brother have a lot in common," laughed DJ. "But if this is another one of his practical jokes, there is no way you'll ever meet him....because I'll be taking some time off to go home. By the time I get back, Robby will be quite dead." She shook her head slightly, still grinning. Her older brother was one of the biggest teases who ever breathed air, but DJ couldn't believe he would joke about a transfer home. There might be a misunderstanding or a miscommunication of some kind. But she didn't think for a moment that Robby would lead her on about something as important as this. Returning her attention to Lepage, she couldn't help thinking he looked like a little kid who'd just been caught with his hand in the cookie jar. "Dr. Lepage," she said softly, leaning forward in her chair. "I'd like to ask you a question. Why is it I have to receive orders taking me clear across the galaxy before you would invite me to dinner?" She smiled at him mischievously. "I hope you have a nice place in mind because I accept your invitation.....even if the transfer orders never show up." Nick was a bit surprised that DJ accepted his invitation. Granted, they had gotten along well enough all this time but they had just been colleagues. She was his boss and, when he considered her question carefully, he had to admit that this was exactly his problem. How do you ask your boss out for dinner without losing your dignity? Obviously, all one had to do was simply ask. He leaned his elbows on the desk between them and moved forward so that their faces were about 10 inches apart. He looked right into DJ's eyes. “Well, Doctor McKinny, it takes a guy like me some time to pluck up the courage to ask his boss out for dinner. I do admit, though that the timing is more than unfortunate. As for where we'll go... it actually depends on whether you like home cooked.” DJ bit her lip but couldn't suppress the giggle she'd been trying to swallow. "Actually, Dr. Lepage," she replied evenly. "It depends on your definition of home cooked."

"Hey there, girl!" said Robby, grinning from ear to ear. But the grin quickly disappeared once he got a good look at DJ. Before she could say a word, Robby leaned forward, his jovial demeanor replaced by one of deep concern. " "Good night, DJ," he exclaimed. "What on earth happened to you? You look terrible!" From the "Beginning Of The End - Part One" "Gee, Robby," replied DJ sarcastically, "it's good to see you too." She was glad to see him but she was also annoyed....annoyed that he'd caught her at such an awkward moment. She swiveled her chair 180 degrees and reached for a PADD on the credenza behind her desk. Glancing at it, she placed it back where she'd found it and casually picked up another trying to buy a little more time before having to face Robby again. Picking up yet another PADD, DJ turned the chair around and placed it on her desk. She smiled gamely at the image of her older brother, his concern and curiosity clearly evident by the expression on his face. "I'm serious," said Robby. "What's wrong? Have you been crying?" "No," lied DJ. "I just had an awful allergy attack." Robby looked at her skeptically. "I didn't know you had allergies." "Well, now you do," replied DJ quickly. "So, why are you spending a fortune bouncing the comm over a zillion relay stations? Is something wrong?" The thought had just occurred to her. Something must be terribly wrong for Robby to feel it necessary to contact her in real time. Since her arrival on Aegis, all other communication with him had been via comm mail. She found herself staring at him intently while bracing herself for really bad news. She half expected to hear there had been a death in the family. For his part, Robby didn't seem overly upset. He continued staring at his younger sister as though she had two heads. It was apparent he wasn't buying her allergy story. "What is it, Robby," asked DJ, loosing patience. "What's wrong?" Robby leaned back in chair and relaxed a bit but his usual smile was no where to be seen. "There's nothing wrong," he answered calmly. "I just wanted to give you a heads up, that's all." "What is he talking about?" thought DJ silently. "A heads up about what?" She was just about to voice the question when Robby answered it. "You've been transferred," he informed her with a grin. But the grin quickly disappeared when he saw the expression on DJ's face. She closed her eyes and hung her head, Robby's words echoing in her mind. "Transferred?" she thought. "How could they do without even asking me?" DJ knew they didn't need to ask. She went where Starfleet assigned her. But she found herself keenly disappointed that the powers that be were moving her so soon. She was finally settled on Aegis. She felt like she belonged here. Now, they were sending her somewhere else to start all over again. And it had to be those guys in personnel. She'd seen her evaluations from the Aegis Command Staff. They were happy with her. No, some wise acre in San Francisco was responsible for this. "I thought you'd be pleased," said Robby softly. DJ looked at her brother's image in the monitor. "Why did you think that? I told you things were going well here." He shrugged. "Aegis is about as far from home as you can get. You were committed for a year. The time is up. I thought you would be happy to finally get out of there." DJ tried to answer but couldn't find the words. Robby was right. Starfleet guaranteed her a transfer in one year. They'd even put it in writing. But she thought she would have the option to stay. It appeared that wasn't the case otherwise, they would have consulted her before cutting her new orders. "Well you thought wrong," huffed DJ. "Can I appeal this?" Robby nodded. "Sure, but why would you want to appeal it?" He leaned closer to the small view screen. "DJ, they're sending you to Eglin....Eglin in Pensacola... Pensacola as in Florida. You're going to be the Chief Medical Office there. This is a great opportunity for you. Why would you want to appeal it?" Again, DJ stared at her older brother. She hadn't thought it possible they would give her a ground assignment especially a ground assignment on Earth....and in Florida to boot. "Why would I appeal it?" she thought. "This sounds like an offer I can't refuse. But can I bring myself to leave here. How could the year be up already?

DJ smiled. "The pleasure was mine, Captain. And remember...don't overdo it. Or I'll have to report you to your wife." Nick smirked faintly "Doctor, she'll find out about it before you will, knowing her." "Then I'm sure you'll behave. I doubt you want to do battle with her." "I assure you that within the last nine months, I've learned the value of not being a workaholic. And you're right...I don't want to, as you say, battle with her." With that, Captain Ayers turned to leave. He didn't notice the errant tear as it quietly slipped down DJ's cheek. Paraphrased from "Memories of Past Lives" by Captain Ayers and DJ McKinny. DJ remained seated behind her desk, her gaze fixed on the artwork hanging on the wall directly across the room. It was an alien landscape that had come with the office. Although the terrain was unfamiliar to DJ, she found the colors and texture of the painting quite pleasing. So she'd left it where it was when she moved in. She continued staring at it for a few minutes, until she was certain Captain Ayers was safely out of Sickbay and somewhere down the corridor. Only then did she dare glance toward the office door. DJ needed to be alone, at least for a few minutes. Much to her relief, there was no one waiting by the door to see her. "Computer," she whispered. "Close and lock the door." She waited, perplexed, as nothing happened. Apparently, she hadn't been heard. Drawing a deep breath, she repeated the order a bit louder. This time, the office door quietly slid shut. She assumed it was also locked but didn't bother to confirm that. Now, safely ensconced inside her office where she was guaranteed at least a few moments of privacy, DJ allowed the wave of emotions to edge forward and slowly overtake her. It had been months since she'd felt this way. She'd hoped she would never feel this way again. It had been over three years since the murders. Three years since most of the crew of the USS Cairo met their untimely deaths at the hands of a yet undetermined suicide terrorist. Three years since Jack was killed. Yet, at this moment, it seemed like it happened yesterday. She hadn't felt such raw emotions in a very long time. She had even allowed herself to believe that she'd moved beyond this kind of terrible, mind numbing grief. The fact she was now sitting here, paralyzed by such god awful emotions, just added to her misery. She considered it a sign of failure. Until a few minutes ago, DJ had been certain she would never again fall into this pit. It had taken her two years to crawl out of it. She'd sworn she would never look into its depths again. But here she was and worse yet, she'd been taken completely by surprise. DJ couldn't begin to count the times she'd talked to others on Aegis about her tenure on Cairo....about the ship's tragic end and the friends she'd lost. She'd even spoken of Jack several times. It felt good to recall his ever present grin and that mischievous glint in his deep blue eyes. She'd started to, once again, enjoy the memories of the wonderful years they'd had together. Even when she felt that familiar anger and grief creeping up on her, she'd been able to successfully ward it off. This time, she didn't see it coming. One minute, she was talking to Captain Ayers about Fiona, a fellow physician on Cairo. A wonderfully talented and beautiful woman who was madly in love with Nicholas Ayers. In spite of the topic, DJ considered the conversation routine. She didn't feel at all stressed as she shared information about Fiona with the Captain. She still wasn't sure exactly when or where she'd lost control. But she'd definitely lost control. She kept both hands over her mouth for fear someone might hear her sobbing, praying all the while that no one would ring the door chime or try to comm her. And, her prayers were answered. DJ McKinny remained alone with her grief. She cried until there didn't seem to be anymore tears. But she knew there were more where those came from. She knew if she didn't pull herself together, she might have to remain locked in her office for the entire night. And so it was that DJ forced herself to push the darkness back into the recesses of her mind....back to a place where she hoped they would be lost forever. She finally got out of her chair and walked into the small, office lavatory. She made sure she didn't look in the mirror as she furiously wiped away the tears. She really didn't want to see herself right now. She knew the image staring back at her would be even more unsettling. DJ splashed a little water on her face, slowly wiped it away and then left the lavatory still carefully avoiding the mirror. She returned to her desk and stared at the always present stack of PADDs that required her attention. She picked up one of them and glanced at it before sitting down, determined to focus on the work at hand. She had just started to review the data when the comm sounded. "Dr. McKinny," called the disembodied voice. "You have a real time comm from Starfleet Headquarters. I'm putting it through to your office." DJ sat there in stunned silence. A real time comm? She didn't know anyone who could afford that. The part about Starfleet Headquarters had just begun to sink in when Commander Robert Harrison's face appeared on screen before her. She stared at his smiling face in disbelief. Why was her brother calling her....real time no less? "Hey there, girl!" said Robby, grinning from ear to ear. But the grin quickly disappeared once he got a good look at DJ. Before she could say a word, Robby leaned forward, his jovial demeanor replaced by one of deep concern. " "Good night, DJ," he exclaimed. "What on earth happened to you? You look terrible!"

By DJ McKinny and Nick Lepage "So much for catching up on paperwork", thought DJ silently as she watched Commander Hawke sit down beside the Captain's biobed. The CMO was greatly relieved that Hawke had finally calmed down. When she and Ayers's arrived in Sickbay, she'd hovered over the Captain, refusing to leave his side. For a moment, DJ thought they would have to sedate the Commander and physically carry her out of the surgery so they could repair the Captain's punctured lung. Fortunately, it hadn't come to that. Hawke finally listened to reason and voluntarily stepped outside. But from what DJ could tell, she'd remained highly agitated, refusing to allow Dr. Lepage to examine her. The CMO could see the frustration in Nick's eyes as she walked toward them after surgery. Commander Quark was with them which came as no surprise. As Chief of Security, Muon Quark would be all over this situation like white on rice. The Rixian, who'd been discharged from Sickbay just a day earlier, appered to be the perpetrator. He was in another biobed, unconscious and guarded by still more security officers. Nick stepped up beside DJ. "She wouldn't let me come near her," he complained, nodding toward Hawke. As he spoke, Commander Quark walked past them. A moment later, she was standing beside Ethan, resting a hand lighlty on Hawke's shoulder. "And I don't want her interrogated until we know she's okay." continued Lepage. "They're friends," commented DJ while watching the scene unfold. "I don't think Muon will push her too far. But I understand your concern." DJ looked at Lepage and shook her head. "Commander Hawke seems to have taken this very personally. Her behavior was somewhat irrational." "I'll say," remarked Lepage. "What's going on between those two?" DJ studied Ethan Hawke for a moment. Now that she'd been reunited with the Captain, she'd settled down but she was still clearly upset. The CMO couldn't help but notice the way Hawke held and caressed Ayers's hand. There was no doubt Ethan was deeply in love with this man. And they had a very strong mental link as well. "Obviously, they're very close," replied DJ, glancing at Lepage. She decided not to mention the chain the Captain was holding when he arrived in Sickbay. He'd dropped it into Hawke's hand just before she left the surgery. DJ was able to get a good look at it. There was a ring on the chain....a very simple ring. It looked like a wedding band. DJ was beginning to suspect that Ayers and Hawke were more than just close. But maybe it wasn't a wedding ring. Until she knew for certain, there was no point speculating about it with Lepage or anyone else. Besides, there was an unconscious Rixian to be examined not to mention a very uncooperative Commander. "At any rate," continued the CMO. "Please give our Rixian patient a thorough examination. In the meantime, I'll run a couple of quick scans on Hawke while she's answering Muon's questions." Nick Lepage nodded silently and made his way across the room toward the Rixian. DJ picked up her tricorder and a small neural cortical monitor and approached Hawke and Muon. Neither seemed to notice her presence as she began the scans on Commander Hawke while keeping one eye on the biobed's monitors. Captain Ayers was doing quite well. He would make a full recovery. Hawke appeared to be okay physically but mentally and emotionally, she was a wreck. "Now," thought DJ. "How do I get her to rest? If he wakes up and finds her like this, he'll have a heart attack."

DJ hurried from her office, instinctively grabbing a medkit on her way out. Once in Sickbay, she quickly glanced around, looking for someone to accompany her. She happened to make eye contact with Myron Collier and Trina Bostick, both nurses and seasoned veterans of the Aegis medical team. They immediately recognized the expression on DJ's face and rushed toward her. "What's up?" asked Trina quietly. DJ shook her head. "I'm not sure," she replied still moving toward the door. "But Dr. Lepage has been injured. He's on his way here." "Injured?" questioned Myron Collier as he fell in behind DJ and Trina. "What happened?" "I don't know," replied DJ as they stepped into the corridor and trotted toward the nearest turbolift. "He was in one of the transporter rooms with those security officers. He was supposed to follow them into Sickbay but something went wrong." "Is he conscious?" inquired Trina. DJ nodded. "Yes, he's conscious. I spoke to him briefly. He wouldn't go into detail but he's definitely injured. His voice was raspy. He could barely talk." The trio arrived at the turbolift just as the doors swished open. There was Nick Lepage along with Ensign D'Bois from Security. Lepage was noticably pale, breathing hard and craddling his arm. DJ feared he would collapse if he tried to take a step. A moment later, Myron was at Nick's side, a strong arm wrapped around the young doctor's waist. "Man," he mumbled while shaking his head. "You look like something the cat dragged in." DJ popped open her tricorder and immediately scanned Lepage while Trina took Ensign D'Bois off to the side to ask a few questions. Satisfied that Nick had not suffered any life threatening injuries, McKinny nodded to Myron Collier. "Help him into Sickbay. I'll be right there." Nick opened his mouth to speak but DJ put up a hand and stopped him. "Don't talk," she firmly ordered. "Just go with Mr. Collier. You'll have plenty of time to tell us what happened after we relieve some of the swelling to your larynx." Lepage submitted without objection which led DJ to believe that he was in a lot of pain. She watched quietly as Myron led Nick into Sickbay. Then DJ joined Trina and Ensign D'Bois. Taking a quick look over her shoulder to insure Lepage was out of hearing range, DJ fixed her gaze on the young ensign. Pointing down the corridor in Nick's direction, she asked in utter amazement... "What in blue blazes happened to him?"

Commander Robert Harrison removed his feet from the desk and straightend up in the chair. His smile was disarming but DJ had long since learned to ignore her brother's charm. In spite of her teasing, she would be the first to admit that Robby was about as charasmatic as they came. Fortunately, she'd grown up with him so she was somewhat immue to it and Robby knew that. For the most part, he didn't bother trying to schmooze her anymore. "I just received my new orders," said DJ softly. Robby's smile disappeared. "I assumed as much." She hesitated a moment waiting to see if Robby would ask her about the orders but he didn't. He chose instead to let her reveal their content at she saw fit. DJ shrugged her shoulders. "I'm a little disappointed," she continued. "But it could be worse." Robby Harrison leaned forward in the chair and rested his forearms on the desk. He knew DJ would be disappointed but he was encouraged by her last remark. "Where do they want you to go?" he asked, feigning ignorance. DJ smiled gamely. "It's a station assignment," she began slowly. "A place called Sky Harbor Aegis. The name is vaguely familiar but I'm not sure where it is." Harrison nodded and again leaned back in his chair. "It's a huge station," he said quickly. "And it's out there." "How far out?" "They didn't tell you?" "No, so where is it?" "Way out." DJ shook her head in frustration. "And how far is way out?" she demanded. Robby knew his baby sister wasn't going to like the answer but he decided it was best not to tease her any longer. "Aegis is parked near Cardassia," he stated bluntly. It took a couple of seconds for the words to register in DJ's mind. When she finally realized what he'd just said, she stared at him in disbelief. "Cardassia!" she blurted. "They want me to go all the way out to Cardassia?" DJ bolted out of her chair, her anger rising. How dare them even think about sending her to that godforsaken area! She strode across the room and stared out the window at the magnificent view. It's awesome beauty did little to cool her roiling temper. She was so lost in her tumultous thoughts, she didn't hear her brother walk up behind her. It wasn't until he rested his hands on her shoulders that she was aware of his presence. "When do they want you to go?" asked Robby gently. "In what capacity and for how long?" It was the second part of the question that brought DJ back to her senses. There was no promotion involved with this posting but if she accepted the assignment, she would report to Sky Harbor Aegis as their Chief Medical Officer. The fact they were offering her the CMO spot surprised DJ. She'd been on leave for over two years. She found it odd that Starfleet Medical would offer such a position to someone who had been out of the loop for so long. But even more importantly, she was promised, in writing, she would have to stay on Aegis for no more than a year. At that point, she could request reassignment and would be transfered to whatever available position she choose. DJ took a deep breath and forced herself to relax. "I'm sorry, Robby," she said apologetically, still gazing out the window. "I should probably be grateful they offered me a station. I was just hoping for something a little closer to home." "I know." "They're giving me the Chief's position. And I only have to stay for a year." "Did you get that part in writing?" chuckled Robby. DJ nodded. "Yes, and I didn't have to ask for it either. They had everything ready for me. All I have to do is sign on the dotted line." She glanced up at him. "I'm a little surprised about the Chief's spot. I didn't expect that." Robert Harrison stepped beside his sister and wrapped his right arm around her, hugging her close to him. "I'm not surprised," he said confidently, gazing out at the stunning view of San Francisco. "You would have been a CMO long before now if it hadn't been for the accident." He steadfastly refused to even glance at DJ, instead focusing his gaze on the glorious cityscape beyond. He knew she would be frowning. DJ never referred to it as an "accident." The very term annoyed her. She was convinced there was far more to it than that. Robby happened to agree. But he decided over a year ago that it was political suicide to pursue the matter. The report classified it as an accident and that's the term he now used to describe it. Robby chose to keep his opinions to himself. He refused to discuss the incident with anyone, especially with DJ. "They knew you would resign if you were ordered to another ship," continued Robby. "Even if those orders included a promotion and an elevation to CMO." He looked down at her and grinned. "They don't want to loose you." He immediately wished he could take back the words but it was too late. He could only hope he hadn't raised his sister's suspicions. DJ stared at her brother skeptically. She knew Robby really wanted her to stay in Starfleet. He was the one who convinced her to take the extended leave rather than resigning. And he was right about the new orders. She would have walked away had Starfleet sent her to another ship, even if they'd sweetened the assignment with a promotion. But how did Starfleet Medical find out about that? She expressed her choice of assignments only once and that was during a brief meeting with the committee when she was declared fit for duty. She asked for a ground assignment....something fairly close to Earth. She didn't recall ever mentioning her plan to resign if she had to serve another tour on a starship. And she never discussed a station assignement with anybody. The thought suddenly occurred to her that someone may have intervened on her behalf. If so, there was only one person who could have pulled it off. She pulled away from her newly promoted brother and looked at him suspicisiously. Robby looked away just as DJ was about to launch into her interrogation. He knew he'd said too much. She now suspected he'd intervened on her behalf with the Medical Corp and she wanted to force him to admit it. DJ opened her mouth to ask the first question then hesitated. At that moment, she decided to let the matter drop. DJ realized months earlier she was glad she'd taken her brother's advice and remained in Starfleet. She couldn't imagine herself working anywhere else. At the same time, she couldn't imagine ever again serving on a starship. Although she wanted an assignment closer to home, DJ knew she was fortunate to have been offered a station, even if it was on the other side of the galaxy. Her only other option was to resign, something she would do only as a last resort. The assignment to Sky Harbor Aegis was certainly better than resigning. Commander Robert Harrison held his breath. After a few seconds, he decided it was safe to continue the conversation. "When do you have to let them know?" he asked, turning to face his baby sister. DJ shrugged her shoulders. "By the end of the week." "And when would you leave?" "Immediately. Apparently they're working without a Chief right now." Robby hugged her again. "Why don't you sleep on it for a day or two. There's no need to rush into a decision. And if you decide to go, we'll be happy to keep Gilbert. The kids would love to have him." DJ laughed at her brother's generous offer. "Oh, that's just what you and Suzie need. Another dog to go along with the three kids and two puppies you already have." Stepping away from her brother, DJ moved closer to the wall of windows overlooking the city. Her chat with Robby had raised questions about whether or not he had anything do to with her current orders. At the same time, their chat had also done exactly what she'd hoped it would. She was a lot more comfortable with the idea of traipsing across the galaxy to set up shop on Aegis. "I'll probably take it," she said calmly. "It's only for a year. After all I've been through, I can put up with anything for a measly year." Turning around to face Robby, she smiled impishly. "And I'm taking Gilbert with me. I hope the Station's CO won't mind." "What if he does?" asked Robby. DJ shrugged her shoulders and grinned. "I'll pull out a few of my antique medical instruments and threaten him."

DJ McKinny couldn't help but smile as she gazed through the huge picture window. To her right was yet another large window. Together, they offered a magnificent view of San Francisco bay and the Pacific Ocean beyond. Folding her arms in front of her, she looked over her shoulder at her older brother. Recently promoted to the rank of Commander, Robert Harrison was stretched out in his new, soft leather chair, his feet casually propped on top of the dark, cherry wood desk with its high gloss polish. His grin reminded her of a cat who had just swallowed a canary. "I don't know who you had to bribe for this," quipped DJ, "but I'm sure it cost you a fortune." Robby's grin broadened and he shook his head. "No bribes involved," he said lightly. "It was charm....pure, unadulterated charm that got me this office." DJ shook her head. "It couldn't have been that," she snorted. "Everybody knows you don't have any charm." "I reserve my charm for a select few," chuckled Harrison. "And none of my sisters are on the list. Especially you!" They both laughed as DJ returned her attention to the marvelous view. All teasing aside, she knew it wasn't a bribe or charm that got Robby this fifth floor, corner office. It was hard earned and well deserved. So was his promotion. ~~~~****~~~~ Commander Robert Harrison studied his baby sister carefully, paying close attention to her body language. She claimed she'd come by to "check out the new office" but he knew better. DJ may have wanted to see the office but she was really here to discuss the ultimatum from Starfleet. It had been just over two years since the accident that killed his sister's husband along with three quarters of their ship's crew. DJ had been badly hurt. The physical injuries were long healed. The psychological wounds were another matter. Harrision could understand his sister's continued grief over the death of her husband. He was still grieving as well. James McKinny had been Robby's very best friend. They met in high school and went through the Academy together. It was Robby who introduced Jimmy to DJ. He was thrilled when the two announced their engagement. He couldn't have picked a more honorable man for his baby sister to marry. Robby was even best man at the wedding. To this day, he still found it difficult to believe that Jimmy was gone. Jimmy had promised to look after Suzie and the kids should anything happen to Robby. Of course, Robby made a similiar promise to his best friend. How could he not keep an eye on Jimmy's wife. After all, she was Robby's little sister. Of course, Robert Harrison never believed it would come to that. But it did....just over two years ago....a dreadful tragedy that investigators labeled "accidental." Not only did he lose his best friend and brother-in-law, he nearly lost his sister as well. For weeks, DJ was touch and go. But she was tough and stubborn. Robby was confident she would bounce back...all the way back. No one was more surprised than he when she didn't. It took a full year for her to recover physically. She was even cleared by the psychiatrists but her brother had some doubt about her mental state. They had grown close during DJ's long rehabilitation. He had a feeling something was still simmering just below the surface. But whenever he tried to broach the subject, DJ quickly shut down tighter than a drum. Then, about a year ago, came the notice that Starfleet was about to move DJ back onto the active duty list. Robby was astonished when DJ refused to report and threatened to resign. That's when he knew for certain there was a serious problem. He vividly recalled the conversation he had with DJ when she announced she was going to resign. It was more of a screaming match than anything else. She told him flat out that she would never again serve aboard a starship. She would resign before accepting such orders. But even if she was offered a ground assignment, she wasn't ready to return to work just yet. If Starfleet pushed the issue, DJ wouldn't think twice about taking a job in the private sector. DJ finally agreed to Robby's suggestion that she request an extended leave of absence. Hopefully, another year would allow her time to heal emotionally. Then she could make a rational decision about whether or not to stay in Starfleet. To her credit, DJ kept up with the counseling. She also spent more time than ever with family. She really enjoyed being around the nieces and nephews, especially Robby's and Suzie's three kids. They, in turn, thought Aunt DJ was the greatest thing since sliced bread, especially after she gave them the Basset puppies. They were too young to notice the shadows lurking in their Aunt's eyes....shadows that weren't there prior to the accident but now seemed permanent. That guarded, tenuous look worried DJ's parents and siblings. It was especially troubling for Robby. He knew they would never leave until DJ faced her demons head on and he had serious doubts she was willing to do that. But now the time had come. Her personal leave was over. She was back in uniform and Starfleet wanted her on a duty roster....somewhere. DJ made it clear she would rather resign her commission than serve on another starship. Robby was disappointed about that. He strongly felt that DJ needed to get back on the horse that threw her. She needed a line assignment of some kind and he set out to find one. Commander Harrison pulled in a few favors and arranged for Personnel to offer DJ a CMO position on a Starbase. It wasn't a ship, so she couldn't complain about that. Yet, it was a line assignment. This particular base was in deep space...very deep space. What's more, the Medical Personnel Board agreed to put a time limit on the assignment. DJ would be there for no more than a year. There was only one caviat....she had to accept this assignment or resign from Starfleet. His little sister had no idea what went on behind the scenes. Commander Harrison didn't want to think about what would happen if DJ ever found about his involvement. She would certainly kill him and it would be a slow, painful death. One thing was for sure; he had done all he could to keep Dr. DJ McKinny in Starfleet. The final choice was hers to make. ~~~~****~~~~ DJ finally turned around and faced her brother. "This is really nice, Robby," she said sincerely. "Congratulations on the office....and the promotion." "Thanks," replied Harrison, still grinning like the Chesire Cat. "I'm glad you could stop by. I've been eager for you to see it." DJ smiled and clasped her hands in front of her. "As long as I'm here, there's something else I need to talk to you about." Robby casually put his feet on the floor and sat up straight in his new, high back chair. "Sure," he said nonchalantly with only the slightest trace of a grin. He motioned her to one of the chairs in front of his desk. "Sit down...and take a load off your mind."