Title: All You Can Be  1/5
Series: Beyond limits
Author: Kim Riley a.k.a. MYSIC / Mysticmcknight
Rated: PG-13, but does contain M/M love
Pairing: B/B Mu also G/B and Mu G/B
Summary:  Through a random act, Doctor Bashir meets Captain Bashir,
and discovers that the universe has painted them both as victims, to
be used and abused?but no more! It's time to take a stand and change
the playing field in ways neither would have thought imaginable.
Note: *****Though Sisko did give over the Defiant plans, the 'Punch'
between Sisko and Mirror Bashir never did.*****
Disclaimer: None of these characters belong to me, they belong to
Paramount and the Star Trek world, All I'm doing is taking them 'out
of the closet' and letting them find the true happiness that canon
would not allow
Credit: This story was inspired by the reading of Distant Depths and
Subtlways by Mary Knasinski (mkk2@csd.uwm.edu) Also, I credit Mrs.
Diane Bloomfield for her inspirational work, which I just had to
'borrow' the word 'Jahkim' her Cardassian word for (beloved).
http://members.tripod.com/~Slashgirl/index.html

STORY CAN STAND ALONE

Feedback: Please, I need the encouragement and the input. Email:
mysticmcknight@hotmail.com
Archive:  Ask me first, I'll probably say yes, but would like to know
where my stuff goes; thanks

"All You Can Be"

Over Six-months had passed since he became fully involved in the
twisted, dominating/ subordinate, and secret relationship with Elim
Garak.  It was 03:00 on the Terok Nor station and Captain Julian
Bashir lay naked in his bed sweating and nursing his left cheek, his
so-called 'kiss good-night' from his lover. "Just a reminder who
belongs to who here." Garak managed to say with a smile and a cool
tone after dressing. Then leaned over gave a quick peck on the lips
and exited to head to his own quarters. But not before bidding him his
usual good night "Captain."

The figure on the bed rolled slowly to his side with muffled moans of
pain. //Captain! Captain! I'm not a Captain. That's why he mocks me
so, that's why he uses me the way he does--because he can. Captain! //
A muffled cry of pain escaped the barriers of the pillow. He'd felt a
tear roll down his cheek, not that long ago it would have been more
but he had next to nothing left of tears. //I'm to blame for all this.

Me! Had I not wanted needed, still need--him// another tear fell
downhis injured cheek. Not that long ago he played the game of
superiority and lost, and in doing so lost the remnants of his soul,
and yet? //I am weak! He was right then and he is right now. He said
back on the shuttle just before blowing the regent to hell, "If I go
to your bed a few more times you'd find a way to give me the
station."// A sour laugh came from the pillow. //He was right. Though
now because of his actions, he can come and go around here 'almost'
freely. Almost? if he could go and do anything, he probably would have
killed me by now or--// "Oh God!" a small cry escaped the pillow along
with a small sob.

//What if he's just using me now? just for kicks!?// The painful
thought turned to fear. //What if he does decide that I don't amuse
him anymore or has no need for me?// a laughter bordering on madness
came from his lips as he rolled over on to his back. "Would you be
merciful enough to kill me or let me linger in this existence?"
//without you.//

A Com chirp interrupted the darkness of the room and his soul. It was
Captain O'Brien yelling as always. "Your late, you idiot. Why the hell
aren't you up here with the rest of us? Never Mind. Just get your
sorry ass up here ASAP." Screamed the now in-charge of the Terran
rebel's. "Don't think that just because you are one of our better
pilots that I'm going to keep giving you slack. Get up here NOW!" he
didn't wait for a reply and clicked off.

Julian Bashir laid there. //He never waits for me to reply anymore.
Hell, he doesn't even wait for me to respond in the first place. One
of these days I'll show him. He'll yell and scream over and over
again, and eventually send... No! Look for me, yes, look for me and
I'll have my revenge when he finds me dead.// A crazed snicker escaped
his lips as his face twisted in morbid humor to his thoughts of death.
Then a wave of either reality or sanity came over him and he forced
himself to dress quickly and head for the shuttle bay.

There were six other pilots standing around the shuttle bay laughing
and joking, until he entered. A good sign that you are the topic of
their jest. Bashir ignored them and faced the irritating In-Charge.
"Sorry." He said just over a whisper.

"Jeez, man. What happened to your face?" O'Brien said not able to
dismiss the huge bruise on his left cheek.

"I fell" Bashir replied meekly. Six months ago he would of come off
snippet or sarcastic, but the months of silent abuse and the direct
threat of O'Brien that Julian was expendable if the bad attitude
continued, silenced him. A small-unnoticed shiver came over Bashir
when a flash of the result of that threat reached Garak's ears. The
report said the replicator exploded and that's what caused his
injuries, but it was made to look that way, and even if there was sum
suspicion, Julian agreed to the report. "Don't become expendable."
Garak whispered to him on the medical bed. Julian let people think
that the explosion and the sequent head injury was the result of the
now meek attitude, no one cared enough to question it, and frankly
they liked it, for they didn't like him, but now they could at least
tolerate him.

"Jeez! I can't for the life of me understand how the hell you fly the
way you do and still be the biggest klutz on the damn station."
O'Brien sighed. He looked at the seven pilots. "Down to business." The
other's moved closer to O'Brien attempting to keep their snickering
under control. "Alright, enough of that. Now, I don't need to remind
you to be careful. The "New" regent is just as bad if not worse than
the old one, but with the disorder in their ranks gives us a break.
You have your orders." O'Brien said with authority to the pilots.
"Dismissed. Not you Bashir, Your orders have changed." He said as
Julian turned to move with the others. "Of course you would have known
that had you been on time." The comment was enough to send another
shockwave of snickers from the others as they disappeared to depart
the station.

Captain Julian Bashir stopped in his tracks and looked back at
O'Brien; his look gave away his fear that he was kicked of the
mission. "I'm Sorry I was late, Sir. But?"

"Shut-up and listen!" O'Brien snapped. He smiled a crooked grin seeing
the once arrogant pain in the ass, smart mouth, quite up and looked
down. No, Miles O'Brien didn't like him, but enjoyed to some dark
sinister part of himself that the man finally learned who was in
charge here. "I need you to make a detour and pick up some supplies.
There is a Terrillian freighter due at nova-beta point and you will
meet then, see to it that all is above board and bring back the
supplies. And Damn it!  Make sure that the stuff matches the list. The
last time, we got 100 of one thing when we needed ten and ten of what
we need 100, idiots." He sneered at Bashir. "The list is already
downloaded, Do try to be smarter then they are, if you think you can
manage it."  Again O'Brien didn't wait for a reply; he just turned and
walked away with other things already on his mind.

Bashir arrived at his two-bit shuttle and was doing a last minute
check when he heard that all too familiar dark purr of Garak.
"Julian." He was standing at the doorway of the shuttle smiling.

"You shouldn't be here." He said softly and not harshly either. "If
you get caught here O'Brien will have you restricted to quarters or?"
Bashir said with concern, but didn't get to finish stating it when
Garak held a finger own his lips and Julian fell silent immediately.

"Don't worry so much. It's just that I heard you were picking up
supplies from the Terrillian freighter at nova-beta point, and I would
like you to pick up a few things for me, if that is ok with you?"
Garak smiled along with his gentle tone in his request. Julian thought
for two seconds of replying, but, or no, or why--but only two seconds.
He knew that Garak enjoyed his game and knew damn well that Julian
would agree. What else could he do? Take another beating later after
getting the supplies anyway or run to O'Brien crying on his
'sympathetic shoulder'. Tell him of how he needed to be with Garak
ever since they shared that cell aboard the Last Regents ship, and I
'didn't,' mean to betray anyone! A small smile came to his lips. "Of
course, what do you need." He said softly. Then, his eyes lit up with
a question. "How did you know I was going to pick up supplies from
that particular freighter when I just found out about it myself?"

Garak's smiled broadened. "Why my dear boy, I make it my job to know."
Then the grin seemed to turn cold and fixated. "Here is all you need
give the 'Captain' of the Terrillian ship" he said and produced a data
crystal and handed it to Bashir. "Now, be a good boy and ask no more
questions and do as you're told and all will be well, maybe I'll
reward you for it." His sweet tone was covered with condescending
overtones and was confirmed when he reached up and scruffed Julian's
hair like a pet. Then turned and walked away pleased.

Bashir HIT the button that would close the shuttle hatch. //Reward!//
He growled under his breath from the anger he was feeling. //That's
all it's become now?has it? A REWARD! // "BE a good boy!" he said
mockingly venting his anger to the poor unsuspecting seat he was now
sitting in. The COM chirped, but Bashir's anger incited a quicker
reaction than the person he knew was calling. "I'm leaving now; there
was a flux in the engines so I felt the need to check it out."

"Don't be late, those damn Terillian's get nervous and tend to bolt if
their connections are very late. And I don't think I need to remind
you just how much we NEED those supplies. So get you ass in gear."
O'Brien clicked off, again without any acknowledgment from Bashir.

The depth of space had its rewards of it's own to give Julian. When he
flew in a shuttle or an attack wing, he was free to?be. It took him
nine hours to get to nova-beta point and meet up with the freighter.
He pushed the warp drive and wound up five minutes early, which made
the Captain of the freighter just as nerves as it was if he was late.
Though he didn't push the craft through space because of fear of being
late, he did it to force something under HIS control to feel his
anger; the shuttle was his target. He took the time needed to see to
it the manifest and the supplies going to be loaded matched and took
personal charge of the package the Captain gave him in exchange for
the data crystal. He thought at first he imagined it, but there was no
mistaking the look of lacking respect in someone's eyes, he'd seen it
enough times to know. He saw it again in the Captains eyes as they did
their private transaction.

All was loaded and he was on his way back, not quite as fast as he had
arrived. Julian looked at the stars ahead of him. He then looked at
the package sitting in the seat next to him and shook his head. A
sarcastic snicker came from his lips. //He must think I'm a total
fool!  But I'm not; I know what's in that package and I know what he's
up too.// He smirked at the package. It took him awhile to put the
pieces together but when the news of the conflict between the
Cardassians and their choice of Regent and the Bajorn's back up
already stepping in, he saw it clear as day. The Cardassians wanted
control not only of this section but also all of the sections. It was
a power play and he was the pawn to Garak's bishop. The Cardassians
wanted total control; they didn't want Bajoran's or Klingons, much
less Rebels as partners. No, they wanted all their enemies inline and
under control. Garak's role served in two ways, kill the old Reagent
and make good with the rebels enough to keep tabs on them

"Damn" Julian said with a sigh. "I was the perfect puppet and now my
strings are around my throat" he said with a touch of shame. "Oh, who
gives a fuck about them anyway?" He shouted just because. That was how
he started to feel about the rebels, the Bajorans, Klingons, and even
Cardassians. He was taken from Terra when he was a small child; he
couldn't even remember his so-called homeland even if he wanted to
anymore. His parents long gone and no one gave a damn about him. He
tried to cling to the rebel cause for it was something to believe in,
fight with all his anger and hatred with in him. But the rebel's where
just as bad in someway as anyone else had been toward him. Garak was
no exception to this rule, but for the love of what, Julian needed
him, in his bed, his arms, and his soul. "I am pathetic." He said with
no muster in his tone. "I wonder just why I just don't?" the shuttle
alarm system went crazy.

***************

Doctor Julian Bashir rushed from the turbo lift in response to the
emergency call. "What's the situation?" he inquired looking at Major
Kira.

"An unknown shuttle has just appeared out of the wormhole and it is
registering server damage to the warp core. Its radiation levels are
getting dangerously close to fatal. We can't raise the pilot, but the
life signs are registering human and? well see for your self." She
said and stepped aside so the Doctor could see what see meant.

"Hmm. How long before he's in transporter range?" The Doctor asked
concerned about what he was reading.

"Damn!"  Chief O'Brien swore. He looked up almost apologetically, "I
can't get a lock. There seems to be something blocking the transport
beam. I've already sent out an Ion pulse and it seems to be working on
controlling the leak."

"Are you going to be able to tractor-beam the shuttle in?" Doctor
Bashir inquired, fearing he may have to watch in horror, as someone
died out there with help so close.

"I... I think I can." O'Brien said dancing his hands and fingers over
his console. "Yes!" he exclaimed in triumph. "Shuttle bay three." He
said to the good Doctor.

Doctor Julian Bashir smiled at the competent engineer and headed to
the turbo lift. "Emergency Medical team to Shuttle bay 3, Radiation
precautions, I'm on my way."

By the time Doctor Bashir got to the shuttle bay, the craft was in the

hanger and the engineering crew was doing their job, making it
possible for the medic team to do theirs. All the people were wearing
protective suits. Julian was placing on his when he heard a small
commotion come from a few of the medics over the com badge.  "What's
wrong?" he asked as he slapped his com unit on his chest.

"Doctor? Doctor, you need to get in here and see this for your self."
came a female voice.

"I'll be there in just a minute; I'm just finishing getting the suite
on, Bashir out." And Doctor Bashir rushed finishing putting on the
protective suite. In less then a few minutes he was entering the back
of the shuttle, he could see that his team had already placed the
pilot on a portable covered with the proper protection for transport.

"How are they?" he inquired as he moved in closer. He couldn't see the
faces of his team due to the bad lighting and smoke from the fire
still in the air, and the helmet of the protection suit.

"His condition is critical, but you still need to see this," the nurse
wave for the doctor to come and observe something.

He approached the pilot with a hand out for the medical scanner, as
the nurse undid the protective cover to expose the pilots' face.
Doctor Julian Bashir froze in his step and stared wide-eyed, seeing
what looked like him badly injured laying on the portable. It was a
long minute before the worlds of his nurse broke thru the shock.

"Doctor, do we emergency beam or start moving him now?" the Nurse
inquired rapidly.

Doctor Bashir snapped to work, looking at the readings of the medical
scan. "He's too weak for the risk of emergency beaming, we better
move, have the OR standing by and notify security of the situation and
of our movement so they can evacuate those areas and close them off
till after we check for radiation contamination later." Bashir snapped







as he moved out of the shuttle.

**********

Several hours had passed as Doctor Bashir exited surgery to be greeted
by Captain Sisko, Major Kira, and Lt. Dax. He knew what they wanted to
know and he had some answers, but they would have to wait just a
little longer, he needed something to drink. He moved passed them
tiredly with a smile and got some water from the nurse he sent ahead
of him to get it for him. "Thank you." He said, his throat soar and
voice a little weak.

"Well, Doctor? Is it true?" inquired Sisko, with a hint of impatience
in his voice.

The Doctor turned and smiled. "First off, he is going to be fine.
Second, it's true. After he was stable, I ran a few checks to see if
there was any temporal residue, but I didn't detect any, but the
radiation could have interfered with that. It's going to be awhile
before he wakes up to learn more."

Dax decided to put her burning question to light. "Can you give any
information as to what happened to him from his injuries?"

"He has a lot of burns on his hands, legs; bad bruises and broken
bones that seem to be from an explosion or two, and some radiation
poisoning, but that was minimal. He also suffered some internal
injuries, looked like debris of some sort. I'll have more later when I
can do a more intense examination and analysis of his condition."

Captain Sisko seems to take all the information and makes his
decision. "Doctor, keep us up to date on his condition, and notify me
immediately when he wakes up."  The Doctor nodded his agreement.
"Major, I want you to scan the wormhole for any distortions. My first
suspicion is that he may be from the mirror universe?"

Kira jumped in on that note. "I thought we finally took care of that
problem?"

"Well, we'll find that out soon enough. Dax, help Chief O'Brien with
his investigation of the shuttle. Perhaps we will find out more of
what is happening here. Until then, we'll just keep our notions on
what is happening restricted to ourselves, got it?" The officers
around him nodded in agreement. All but Doctor Bashir exited the
infirmary.

*************

Several more hours had passed when the senior staff gathered for a
meeting on the matter. When Captain Sisko entered the room and sat
down, Doctor Bashir jumped started the meeting.

"I've finished my exam and analysis, including a DNA work up. There
are no signs of enhancements or... evidence of ever having a history 
of
mental retardation." The reference of his own changes made him a bit
uncomfortable, but he pushed on with his professional manors. "This
strongly suggests to me that he is not from this past or this future.
It would be better to say he was my twin, than myself."

"What ya mean by that" O'Brien inquired

"It means Chief, that like twins, we have a great deal in common, but
we are still very different."

"Well, that fits with what I found out," joined Major Kira Nerys. "The
distortions near the wormhole are very slight, but present. The same
type we picked up before. It seems that our 'cap' on the doorway has a
leak in it." Kira said, very unhappy with her discovery.

"Hmmm" was all that Sisko said. "Chief, what about the shuttle?'

"Well, from what I can determine the problem was internal. The haul
had no recent damage from what we know of Cardassian, Klingon, or
Bajoran weapons over there or here. No, from what I can tell, he was
on a supply run and something happened that triggered a reaction that
caused the core to crack. It will be a little while longer before I
can put all the pieces together," finished O'Brien.

"Well, at least we know that it wasn't intentional, that is a relief.
Chief?" he was interrupted by Doctor Bashir who was unaware of his
error.

"Are you sure it was a routine flight?" he asked wanting to be sure
there was no mistake.

"I'm pretty damn sure as I can be right now. All the external damage
is at least several days old, why?"

"Yes, Doctor, why?" Sisko wanted to know what it was that caused his
CMO to forget his protocol.

"Well," he hesitated, a little unsure if he should bring it up. "From
my analysis of his injuries, my guess at the time was... well...that 
he
was escaping on that shuttle." Julian said, trying not to make
mountains out of molehills.

"What brought you to that conclusion" inquired Dax, knowing that
Julian had developed some good instincts over the years.

"Well, there are a lot of injuries, which range from very recent to
about six, seven months ago. The evidence, the nature...." He sighed.
"It indicates abuse. It may not be typical torture, but..."

"Well, I don't know what happened to him," O'Brien jumped in, "But,
from the remnants of the supplies and the lack of outside damage to
cause the accident, I doubt he was in pursuit."

"I can confirm Chief O'Brien's conclusion there. Though the computer
was damaged, the coordinates last set were to what would equal this
station, and it was equally loaded in the auto-pilot, even though it
wasn't engaged," Dax added.

"Hmmm" was all that Bashir could say. "Perhaps it's nothing." He said
to end the inquiry on his thoughts.

"Well, everyone, for now I think we can safely say we have another
visitor from the otherside. I want to know how soon he'll be ready to
go home, and how soon we can get him there." Sisko placed it out to
his staff.


**************

The hour was late. It was 20:00 hours and he still didn't even have
dinner yet, but his desire of being nearby was stronger than eating.
Doctor Bashir knew how awkward the rest of the staff was feeling about
this, and they had every reason. It's not everyday that you double
arrives on the station. Julian laughed to himself at that though, for
they had seen plenty of doubles on this station, to the point it was
almost expected. He continued to look over his medical results of the
exam he gave his twin, and that nagging sensation of what really
caused some of these wounds was still present. He sighed as he sat
back in his chair in his office. //I'll have plenty of time to find
out, for it seems that my twin is going to be here awhile. Between his
injuries and the Chief not knowing how to 'return' him... yes, my twin
was going to be here a while.// A small smile crossed the Doctors
face. //I finally get to see what my life may have been like had I
been normal, no mental defects and no enhancements. Of course his
universe is different, but still...// his thoughts were interrupted by 
a
sound coming from the direction of the biobeds. It was low and sounded
like a whimper. Doctor Bashir went to investigate.

Sweating, slight twitching was coming from the patient in the biobed.
Bashir looked at the readings and then heard the feverish remarks of
his patient, still trapped in his dreams...no, nightmares.

"Pl....Pleaseeees!  Stop!" Just then his twin had cried out. His arms
flailing to stop the attack of what he saw happening in his mind. The
voice grew soft, and began to beg through tears, that were really
falling down his cheeks. "Stop, please stop." The voice grew more
child-like. "I'm sorry, I won't do it again."  Those words and the
reflections stung and froze Doctor Bashir to the quick. He knew from
the bottom of his soul the meaning of what his twin was asking, he
knew all to well, but what his double said next shocked him even more.

"I promise Garak, I won't do it again... please?" only tears and sobs
came then. It was a minute before Doctor Bashir could make himself
move and get the medication to aid his twin's rest. He was numb as he
moved and got the hypospray and administered it. He stared at his
double laying on the biobed, he felt the connection happen that
second, he was being abused, and by...

"I thought you would still be here." Garak said with a warm smile and
realized that not only did he startled the Doctor but some how
frightened him. "Is everything ok?" he asked looking around.

Doctor Bashir nodded his head realizing how he was reacting to Garak.
He shook his head as if he was a little dazed. "I'm ....I'm okay." He
said not too convincingly.

Garak walked in slowly so not to make matters too much worse, but he 
was concerned. He saw that the rumors on the station were true. "So,
it is true? Is he going to be alright?"

The medical question brought Doctor Bashir back to his full senses as 
he looked at the medical readouts again before answering. "Yes. He's
resting better. I had to give him a shot for the fever was 
producing... 
unwanted affects." He stopped and gave a slight smile, and headed to 
his office, knowing Garak would follow.

Garak couldn't help but notice the tension between them as they walked 


into the office. On the desk was a platter of food he brought knowing
that the Doctor had not eaten and probably wouldn't if someone else
didn't take charge of that area. "I heard the rumors and took a guess
that you would not have eaten dinner, so I brought you some." Garak
said, still trying to analyze the Doctors behavior. "Julian?" he said
softly. It was enough to make the Doctor stop staring at his desk and
turn and face him. "What's wrong? The look you gave me when I came in
the room a moment ago... it seemed that I... scared you." He wanted an
answer but was patient, more so with Doctor Julian Bashir than anyone
else. The Good doctor let out a sigh and sat in his seat and sighed
again. Garak knew an answer would follow soon enough.

"You might want to sit for this." He said to Garak. When Garak found
himself a comfortable place and sat down, he sighed again. "I'm
trusting you..." he emphasized the words, "for I don't want this
repeated to anyone   else, okay?" The Doctor looked for the
confirmation he knew he would find from Garak. Once Garak promised, he
continued slowly. "Do... you remember when I told you about my 
father?"

"Yes," Garak replied.

"Well..." he sighed again. "Remember I told you about what... happened 

when I was a child, you know..." it was still hard to talk about. Even 

though he confided to Garak about what happed before, it was still 
hard to talk about. "The abuse." He blurted out.

"Yes." He said gently to sooth the tension in the room.

"Well...  I heard this noise from the other room and went to check on 
him... he was feverish and was responding to something that happened, 
probably recently..." he sighed some more with frustration. It was 
difficult to say it. To say the words that he wanted to share with the 

Cardassian sitting across from him. They had been friends for over six 

years and "thick as thieves" as the saying went. He shared parts of 
himself with Garak that he didn't share with anyone else. O'Brien was 
100% typical human male and didn't like to discuss emotional 
'weakness'. And councilors were for working out problems, but Garak 
was one of his closest and dearest friends, even if he never told him 
that.

"Doctor, what does the one have to do with the other?" Garak 
interrupted his thoughts. During a pause he continued. "Are you saying 

he was, is, being abused by your father even now?"

The Doctor's eyes shot up at him, glad that he figured most of it out, 

but it still needed clarification. "Not our father," Doctor Bashir 
said. The 'our' went unnoticed. "He's being abused by...." He 
stammered 
here. He couldn't even imagine Garak hurting him that way. He looked 
away trying to find the words he knew must come, for he needed to tell 

Garak the truth. "You," is all a soft voice could muster out. The 
mixture of emotions filled his eyes as he looked at Garak, wondering 
how he would take the information.

Garak's eyes widened at the news. Only those who knew how important 
the relationship was to both Garak and Bashir would understand why 
this event, happening in a different universe, was upsetting. Then 
Garak knew why the Doctor looked at him that way in the infirmary a 
moment ago. The need to defend himself seemed to take a sudden hold on 

him and he rushed to interject, "You know I would never..."

"I know. But just the though..." he said shaking his head sadly. "I'm 
not sure how to handle this; I don't even know exactly what's 
happened. But I know that tone, and I know what I heard. I just hope 
he'll trust me enough to talk about it." The young Doctor looked only 
a little optimistic about it.

"Why shouldn't he talk to you, he is you?"

"No. He's not." Bashir interrupted the mistake being made. "He would 
be more like a brother than being me. We have the same basic genes, 
looks, and parentage, like twins at birth... But... he's not me. I can 

relate to him only so much; the rest is still going to be about two 
strangers that look like each other. It took me years to trust anyone 
else, you, about that time in my life. I'm not sure how long it will 
take between him and me, But..." the Doctor let the word linger as his 

eyes went to the floor as his thoughts went inside.

"But?" Garak asked after a long second.

"But... But I do think we 'will' find a connection." The Doctor said 
hopefully.

It was late and Garak knew they both were tired. "I'm sure all will 
work out for the best." He smiled and stood up getting ready to leave. 

"You should definitely eat something, especially if you're going to 
keep one of you medical vigils." Garak's smile first grew even broader 

then dwindled to being more serious. "I'll keep a low profile for a 
while and avoid the Infirmary till I get an 'okay' from you."

"That would be best. It's going to take some time for him to heal and 
adjust to the situation. But lunch?" he piped in. 

"Still on for tomorrow?" Garak asked with anticipation.

"Definitely!" replied the Doctor. "I'm looking to see what new reading 

material you have for me."

"Well, I'll just have to see what I can do not to disappoint you. Good 

night Doctor, and..." his tone gentled with a warm smile. "Don't let 
this upset you too much. Just remember, I'm me." With that though 
planted nicely in the Doctors head he left content that all would be 
well.


**************** (End of Part ONE)


He hurt all over and had one hell of a headache. The last thing he 
remembered was one instrument after another signaling him of its 
failure. Then the explosion, the radiation, the fires, and now... 
nothing. He was lying on his back staring at what sort of looked like 
the old station, but it sounded and felt off. He then noticed the 
console above his head, some sort of medical stuff. Then he noticed he 

was not alone in the room. 

The young woman that walked up to him smiling was unknown to him. 
"Take it easy" she said soothingly.  The outfit she was wearing was 
different than anything he'd seen before. She was human, and yet, they 

didn't wear anything so nice, much less have any sort of uniform. He 
started to sit up and saw just how similar and different the room was 
to the station he knew. Perhaps he got captured again and this is 
another one of their stations and she was a collaborator. Panic 
started to build in him and wanted out of the bed but then his 
condition reminded him he was no match for her and almost fell back 
into the bed, but the woman caught hold and eased him back into it.

"Take it easy, Julian," said a strong voice. Human and familiar but 
couldn't quite place it. The person came closer and he saw a ghost 
wearing a similar outfit but in red. "What the?" he was stunned. The 
figure in red came closer to the side of the bed and smiled. "I take 
it by your reaction that you remember me?"

"Your dead!" he insisted

"Surely Julian, you remember the rumors going around about alternative 

universes?" Captain Benjamin Sisko asked. It was a long time since he 
was there and met this version of his CMO, but he knew the rumor's 
where there and must still be there with all the trouble they had with 

Kira's double and still trying to keep the facts confidential. "Well, 
they are true." He said matter of factly waiting for this man's 
response.

"But, but... their just stories..." he couldn't quite grasp the 
concept 
that the tales of other versions of themselves existed, much less 
existed in what the stories said a prosperous place where humans held 
their own territories and were free. But here standing before him was 
Benjamin Sisko, the man he though long since dead, leaving O'Brien as 
the incharge of the rebels. He didn't like Sisko any better than 
O'Brien, but at least he didn't insult him, maybe punch him once in 
awhile, but never insulted him. 

The one claming to be Sisko stood there patiently letting him think 
about what was being said. He saw just how comfortable he seemed in 
these surroundings, and how the woman did too. It felt too real to be 
a dream, but still... "How do I know?" he was about to ask when Sisko 
interrupted him, already predicting his questions.

"That it's not a trick? To your knowledge can anyone clone another 
humanbeing?" he asked as if knowing the answer.

"No." he smirked. 

"Well then." Sisko said and turned his attention to the doorway 
wanting Julian to see something. The nurse put another pillow under 
his head as he shifted up to see what it was this man wanted him to 
see. His eyes widened even more. "No way!" he said shocked as he saw 
himself. Better hair cut, better health and wearing a blue version of 
the uniform.

"Julian Bashir, may I introduce to you your other self, Doctor Julian 
Bashir." Sisko said formally. He was tired with all the other outside 
problems and wanted to get to the heart of matters as quickly as 
possible. Soon he would have to turn this one over to his Doctor and 
he didn't want to deal with going slow. 

The one that looked like him smiled and said "hello." It sounded like 
him, but the bitterness, anguish, pain, and loneliness that made up 
his being was missing from the one standing before his eyes. 

"Then it is true." He said believing.

"Now, before I let the two of you catch up on old time," Sisko 
quipped, knowing the two never met before, "I would like to know a few 

thing, if I may."

"Sure." Julian said, still not taking his eyes off his counterpart.

"First, what happened that brought you here?" Sisko asked.

"Umm, I really don't know how I got here. I can only tell you I was on 
my way back to the station with supplies and all hell broke out on the
shuttle. I did what I could to maintain the systems and get back to
the station as fast as I could. The last thing I remember is a lot of
fumes, fire and the radiation warnings telling me I would be dead
soon... oh, and the station. The next thing I knew I was... here?
Where exactly is here?"

His counterpart, the Doctor jumped in. "It's the infirmary on DS9, 
um--Terok Nor; there are a lot of differences and we'll go through
some of them later, for now just know that your going to be fine and
rest."

Sisko took his turn and continued asking his questions calmly. "Were
you aware of the device planted in the supplies?"

"Device?" The bedridden Julian asked confused.

"By your reaction, I take not. There was a small low frequency emitter
placed among the supplies that caused the crack in the warp core. It
was designed to force the shuttles warp core to explode, but take it's
time doing it. We've also concluded that your contact didn't want you
to make it back, but get far enough away so not to be blamed for the
incident. When you get back, I'd make new alliances if I were you."
Sisko said.

"Back?" he asked from the bed. Not noticing that only his counterpart
heard the mixed emotions behind the simple but controlled question.

"Yes." He said squarely. "This isn't your universe and we have a very
strict policy of time and universe travel. The good Doctor here tells
me that you're lucky and will survive all your injuries, but will be
fully able to return in about two weeks, but? your shuttle has taken a
lot of damage and my Chief engineer has remarked that if he didn't see
you pilot that "hunk of junk" he wouldn't have believed it. I will
give you a more confirmed time frame in a few days when the chief has
had time to evaluate all the systems. In the mean time do as you told
and relax." He smiled that he was done. All was as he had thought in
regards to the incident, and had plenty of time to ask about the
activities of the alternative universe later. With a nod to his CMO he
left.

Still lying there he saw his double give the woman a look, not mean or
intimidating, but sincere and gentle. She took the hint and left the
two of them alone. "So? You're a doctor?" He asked a little miffed at
the situation unfolding before him.

 A little awkwardly his counterpart laughed. "Yes, yes I am. I want to
discuss your condition." He told his patient warmly.

"This is weird," grinned the bedridden Julian.

"Totally," laughed Doctor Bashir. "I mean, it's not every day you
wake up and have a twin brother," smiling even more. The other Julian
was taken a little off guard by the affectionate wording, the idea of
looking at this... this man as a brother didn't occur to him. But the
idea seemed really appealing.

"Brother, eh? What made you think that?" he asked inflecting that he
liked the idea in his voice.

"Well, since I had more time to think about us, it dawned on me that
we share a lot of similarities, like real twins would, but definitely
different experiences. Plus...." He hesitated looking a tad bashful; 
"I
kinda like the idea, being an only child and all." He smiled his
nervousness and both of them laughed just to break the awkward
tension.

"Well, be straight with me then... brother." He said lying back 
further 
on the propped up pillows, smiling. "I rather direct instead of the 
long dragged out version of things."   

"I think, I can relate." Doctor Bashir chuckled back. "Basically, you 
had suffered only second degree burns, around your face, arms, and 
your hands. The smoke inhalation did cause some minor lung damage, but 

like the burns took well to the treatments. It's really the amount of 
radiation that is keeping you in here. You received a high dosage and 
had you not been given treatment...." He lingered from saying the 
obvious.

"I would have died." He said. Then his smile turned as the thought of 
himself dying anyway had he reached the regular station. He knew he 
was totally disliked, and he really believed they would have let him 
die instead of wasting precious medicine on him. 

"What's wrong?" asked the Doctor.

"Nothing, never mind," replied the bedridden Julian.

In spite of himself the Doctor had to smile at his brother's response. 

It was so like himself that he felt he knew the problem, even though 
he knew he didn't.

"What you smiling at?" snapped Julian.

"Sorry, you sound so like me when I've things on my mind I don't want 
to share." He smiled warmly

That face, warm, caring, and real? for him. Yes, he too was an only 
child only to become and orphan and grew cold with the lack of care 
people gave him. This was real. This was for him. "No, I'm sorry. 
I..." 
he smiled weakly "maybe later, okay?"

"Okay." Doctor Bashir said. "So? I'm a doctor, what do you do for the 
cause... I know about the rebels and stuff, for I got thrown into your 
universe a few years ago."

That knowledge seemed to strike a cord with the non-StarFleet officer
"Did YOU? Kill Odo?" he quickly added in more information to his
question so not to sound accusing. "I mean, there were a lot of rumors
about me doing it, but I know I didn't, but--" he didn't want to say
he used the reputation anyway to get a position with the rebels.

Doctor Bashir's eyes looked downward filled with guilt. "Yes, yes I
did." He said with no conviction.

"Wow!" he heard his brother say. "That must have been some battle, for
I remember him being quick and strong." He smiled up at his victorious
brother, the Doctor.

"Please." He said softly. "I only did what I had too. It's almost as
bad as if I killed our Odo," a strong sense of guilt washing over him.

"Odo! Odo is also here on the station?" he was more shocked, it also
never occurred to him that everyone else he knew had a double here, or
almost everyone, since Sisko was dead in his world.

Doctor Bashir snapped out of his guilt to deal with his brothers'
sudden awareness. He knew he was going to have to become even more
aware of the differences if he would be able to deal with being here
for two weeks or more. "Yes. He's the stations constable." He took in
a breath and let it out slowly. "There are some other significant
differences you need to become aware of."  He took a deep breath and
started.

Doctor Bashir told him everything; whether he was suppose to or not,
he felt he could and did. From the birth of the Federation to the
Bajorans on their side, to the Dominion, Klingons, and the Cardassians
and filled in the main events of what was happening in his universe at
present. He dealt with each fear and paranoia that he suspected would
and did rise at the information. By the end of two and half-hours, his
brother had it all, well almost all. He purposely didn't mention
Garak's presence here on the station. That was something he would wait
to talk about much later. He could see that his brother was not as
fast at some of the concepts as he 'might' be. Then he chided himself
quietly for even thinking that way. Then he noticed that his brother
was tired and he still didn't know what he did for the rebels. He had
done most of the talking, but he could see that for once his audience
didn't mind. The main signal that he had overtaxed his brother was the
big yawn.

"I'm sorry." He said as he tried to suppress another yawn. "Please,
continue. It's, it's really fascinating how we had so much in common
and yet things turned out so different." His sleepy eyes looked up
warmly to his newfound brother.

"I really think I should let you get some sleep now. I just didn't
want you to panic if you saw a Bajoran. Over half my staff is Bajoran,
and believe me they will take excellent care of you." He smiled
confidently. "By the way, I forgot to find out. What do you do for the
rebels?" he asked truly curiously. "I just want to know, and then I
promise it's off to sleep for you."

His tired brother stifled another yawn, eager to continue the
conversation. "I'm a pilot. A pretty good one if I say so my self."

Doctor Bashir smiled proud like a brother would be "I'm not surprised.

Chief O'Brien said that it must have taken a whole hell of a lot of
skill to keep that ship from blowing up and on course." He barley
finished his sentence when he noticed the eyes of his brother widen
with anger.

"O'Brien!" he exclaimed. More would of come had not the all too
familiar voice broke in.

"What's wrong?" O'Brien asked hurrying in at the loud calling of his
name. Then he saw the two Bashir's and took a double take. He had
heard from the meeting, but seeing was believing.

Doctor Bashir was taken off guard. His brother obviously had a real
problem with O'Brien, for the seething anger was pooling in his eyes
when the Chief came closer to the two of them. "Nothing," he said.
"What can I do for you?" he asked quickly, for one, to turn the chiefs
attention away from his brother and two, get this apparently unwelcome
meeting over with.

"I just wanted to see how you were doing." He couldn't but help
staring at the other Julian. Fortunately he was too taken with the
sight of the two of them he overlooked the anger toward him from the
bedridden one. "Since your up, just let me say. You did one hell of a
job maneuvering that junk bucket with it crashing down around you. I
don't thing I would have kept it going more than ten minuets, and
according to your computer logs, it was over a half an hour." O'Brien
smiled his praise. He didn't give it often, but he knew it was earned
after seeing the situation.

Hearing a compliment from all people, O'Brien stunned him. His anger
stilled in his breath. He had to remind himself to breathe. Finally
all he could do was mumble a "thank you."

"Is that all, Chief?" Doctor Bashir asked softly.

O'Brien shook his head yes, noticing that he was interrupting
something. "I'll catch you later, at Quark's maybe?"
This time it was the Doctor that shook his head yes, letting the Chief
leave.

"I'm Sorry, I didn't know he was there and I didn't know?" Doctor
Bashir said to his brother who still looked stunned.

"Quark is alive?" he asked still stunned with the current situation
that still passed. "So, it's definite. If one dies in one world, they
aren't affected in the other." He took a long pause as sadness filled
his eyes. "Quark was my only real?" he let the words drop. "I'm tired
and like to rest now." He said lying down and closing his eyes. He
opened them slightly to feel and see his brother smile as he pulled up
the blanket over him, tucking him in. It felt good to be cared for.
His new brother's smiling face was his last thought as he faded away
to exhaustion.

******************

Doctor Julian Bashir was at the entrance of Quark's when he spotted
Garak just down the way heading back to his shop. He would have
normally just headed in to meet up with O'Brien, but today he found
himself at a crossroad. He felt it inside. He didn't know why it was a
crossroad, but he needed to decide where he rather be at the moment.
It was only seconds when he realized that he was already walking after
Garak. He caught up with Garak inside the tailor shop. That, 'I don't
know why or what I doing feeling', came over him. This time he just
decided to go with the flow. Garak spotted him entering his shop and
greeted him with a warm caring smile, reserved just for him, Bashir
noted.

"Ah, Good doctor. How are you today?" he asked pleasantly surprised to
see him.

"I'm doing okay." He said still unsure of any specific idea on a line
a conversation. He just wanted to be here. "How is business?"

Garak smiled at the Doctors attempt at small talk, but he didn't mind.

He was a little unsure of what brought the young doctor here today,
but if he was looking for company, Garak was more than glad to provide
it. "It's almost closing time. Have you had dinner yet?" he asked
hoping that maybe that was the reason he was here.

"No, I haven't. How about the replimate?"  He chipped in. "Unless
you're in the mood for something different?" not wanting to sound too
forward in the matter.

"There are not a lot of choices for me here unless I cook, and we both
know I don't like to do that too often, not my best trade." He
chuckled, as did Bashir. "How are things going with you and your?" he
let it hang to let the response from Bashir fill in the blank, as he
was finishing his closing of his store.

"Brother." Bashir said proudly. The joy of that thought was glowing
from every pour in his body. "He's great, but sleeping right now. The
radiation is going to take a little time to counter but soon he'll be
up an about. I cant' wait to show him around." He was gleaming at the
prospect.

"An unsuspected source of family is always heart warming. I'm truly
glad for the two of you." Then Garak though about how Bashir's
enthusiasm, though tapered lately, could blind him to other's real
input. "Does he share you thoughts on this reunion?" he asked
carefully not wanting to bring any negativity to a happy moment.

But Bashir only smiled more and replied, "That's what makes him so
great. It's like we really are brothers and we both know it."

 Garak was now truly glad for Bashir. He himself was lonely and knew
that at times so was Bashir. Only a few times had he though of
pursuing Bashir beyond the friendship circle, but humans, even in this
time period had difficulty with same sex relationships. He decided
that Bashir was too naive and would either reject him or become
offended and call off the friendship. As much as he found his young
luncheon and occasional dinner companion attractive, he didn't want to
lose his only real friend over hormones. Besides, he told himself
often that love is not in the bed but in the doing. He made a point to
watch out for Bashir as often as he could. "Well then, after you?"
Garak said to Bashir and the two were off to enjoy dinner.

**************

 The next day was busy in the Infirmary but Doctor Bashir made time to
be with his brother who was progressing well. It was during their
visits that the mix-up's started. Someone would have walked in calling
for Julian and both responded and then both laughed. They knew that if
both were going to spend any more time on this station with less
confusion in their lives, there had to be a few changes. They chatted
on what they could do and found that the Julian Bashir, Captain among
the rebels middle name was just the opposite of what Doctor Bashir's
parents chose for him. They had two names to choose from, both
belonging to his grandfathers, who both never met. In the Doctor's
world their Father won out, and in his brothers their Mother won the
choice of middle names. So it was officially decided that Captain
Julian Justin Bashir would become Justin Julian Bashir. To help with
visual confusion, since they both now looked the same since getting
the same sharp hair cut, and Justin eager to aid his brother, now wore
a full goatee, giving him something in common with Sisko, via the use
of a hair stimulator.

The hour was late and even though his brother now known as Justin was
doing much better and would be on his feet in another day or so,
Julian was in his office keeping his nightly vigil. The red tape never
seemed to end, but since he could do so much so quickly, he found he
could postpone when a crisis came up and not get really behind. He was
in the middle of some report when he looked up knowing something was
wrong, nothing serious but still wrong. He got up to check on his
brother. He saw Justin twitching slightly, a light sweat building on
his brow. He was having a nightmare and Julian knew some of what it
was about. He called to him softly, but realized he hadn't been called
Justin long enough to respond to it, and then touched his shoulder
gently, but it might as well been a hit for the sudden reaction was
the same.

"I didn't mean it, I'm sorry!" he cried out as he bolted up breathing
heavy. It took a few seconds to get his baring. Then Justin (formally
Julian) pretended to act ignorant to the nightmare. He chuckled softly
at being startled. "Sorry. Is something wrong?" trying to push his new
brothers attention from prying. He thought he could hide the guilt and
shame from him, but he should have realized that they were sharing a
bond, whether because of both being lonely inside and only children or
perhaps because they seemed to share a piece of the same soul. Julian
(still Julian) saw it in his eyes, but as he knew he would not have
wanted to have the issue pushed, he did not push it.

"Well, I thought?" he said giving an opening, but saw in his brothers
eyes it wasn't going to be taken now. "Never mind. I didn't mean to
startle you. You should go back to sleep and I'll see you in the
morning." Doctor Bashir eased his brother back to bed and left back to
his office. It was not long that he felt he was being watched and he
smiled. "I told you to get some sleep." He said as he turned seeing
his brother watching him.

"I couldn't sleep." Justin said, finding a place to sit. "I've gotten
more rest in the last few days here than I think I've had in a life
time. I'm not use to it. Besides, I really want to talk to you, but
not here." He paused in thought, and then continued. "Um, how close do
you think this station is to Terok Nor?"

"Why?" Julian asked curiously

"Well, on... my station." He hesitated, thinking that the only thing
that was his on the station was the air he breathed nothing else. "I?
had a place I liked to go when I wanted to just? disappear for a
while."

Julian saw how much he was hoping that this was the case. "I'm not
sure." Is all he could say.

 Justin looked up and sighed. "Do you think?" the question didn't need
to be finished for Julian smiled his agreement to search it out.

Julian lost track of the time for the two of them were padding around
the station, but Justin seemed to know it better than he did, even
with all the changes, the basic layout was the same. They were in the
walls at a crossways and a ladder leading up and down. It was then
that Julian asked his brother, not wanting to doubt him if they were
close.

"Yes, this is it." Justin said excited and stepped on to the ladder
and reaching to the wall. Julian looked and saw the wall.

"It's a wall?" he said, then felt foolish when he saw his brother run
his hand up the seam and found a switch.

"It's here. It's really here." He turned to face his new sibling with
a child's excitement of the adventure.

Julian remembered how he use to feel that way about adventures, and
realized that at this moment when the secret door, over six years in
hiding, was opening that he still could. The area was dark, but Justin
moved in slowly but with confidence. He fumbled the left wall by the
entrance and soon very dim lights came on. The room was not very big,
but large enough for small storage, or a small office. It did look
like someone had used it a long time ago, and some old boxes of
Cardassian stuff was still present.  Julian was quick to check out the
boxes and a bit disappointed to find basic stuff of little value, like
blankest, water, food rations. Then it dawned on him that this was a
hold up shelter for someone. His further inspection was difficult do
to the poor lighting, wondering if Bajorans used this as a hide out.
The difficulty cleared as light started to pour in from the far wall.
It was moving to expose a thick transparent wall with an outstanding
view of the stations' ring and the stars. Justin knew just where the
switch was and now stared out transfixed on the familiar but new view
of his current world. Julian couldn't see any sign of Bajorans ever
being here.

The next thing Julian knew his brother was shifting the boxes around
to form a comfortable place to relax and enjoy the view for the both
of them. Julian moved to sit down next to his brother when the signal
came. The view was magnificent, but Julian didn't want to get too
distracted from the reason they came here... to talk.

"You discovered this place back on your station?' he asked Justin.

"Yeah. There are a lot of times I really don't have things to do, so I
explore. There were some cubbies and this. If you like I'll show you
the cubbies too, if you haven't found them." He snickered "But since
they weren't that difficult to find, most likely you guys have." He
smiled again looking out the window still avoiding the topic in his
mind. "I was only lucky to find this place and since it serves no real
purpose, I decided to keep it for myself." His head dropped down and
his hands twisted attempting to find the courage to bare his soul.
Julian helped him find it by speaking first.

"I was born mentally retarded." He said flatly.

Justin snapped a look of shock and disbelief at the statement. "What!?

"It's true. I was born with mental defects. I know, I know." He said
seeing the next obvious question in his brother's eyes. "I was..." he
hesitated for this was difficult to talk about with others, but if he
couldn't share with his brother, a part of himself, he might as well
just give it up. "I was enhanced." There he said it, but then noticed
that it didn't mean anything to Justin.

He would have to explain it. "I had a full over haul, which is illegal
in the Federation." He said using terms he felt his pilot brother
could understand. "Now, I..." he didn't know what to say, then it came
to him. "I've been given an unfair advantage in the physical and
mental department. In our history, they attempted to create the
'Perfect' being. They had thought at one time they succeeded, until
their 'Perfect' beings tried to take over the world, convinced that
because they were better than the majority they deserved it. It was
determined that along with the enhancements, a large majority of the
time, mental illness occurred on many different levels making them
dangerous in the eyes of the Federation" He took a deep breath and let
the pain flow, only slightly startled by the arm going around his
shoulder. How long he waited for someone to just offer comfort for his
pain and not a slue of prodding and pushing for him to talk. "I wasn't
good enough for my parents..." he was surprised to hear a sob come
from his throat. He was sure he had put this to bed a long time ago.

"It's alright, I understand." He heard the sincere voice of his
brother as he felt a hug. A voice that long ago took on its own
characteristics and no longer sounded so much like his own. "I
understand not being enough." Justin whispered to his sobbing brother
now held deep in his arms. He too started to cry, for the freedom to
release the pain was finally there.

Julian went on to tell his brother about his experiences with the Jem
Hadar, isolation, His being discovered, and even Section 31. He poured
his soul to Justin knowing that he was totally understood every step
of the painful journey. They shared tears and grief over similarities
of loneliness, being an outsider, not feeling good enough. It was
Julian that finally added that it was only most recent years that he
started to feel whole, till section 31 came into play. He noticed the
quiet in Justin's eyes and knew it had to deal with Garak and the
beatings. He was going to push it. He looked, now down at his brother
curled to his chest so many hours later. He was glad he left a note in
his office so no one would panic if they were found missing.

"I think we've proven that we can share ANY thing with each other.
I've told you things that I could be charged with treason, knowing I
can trust you? trust me?" he asked softly. Justin turned his dark eyes

up to see his brother's plea. "I know there is something bad going on
with you and Garak?" Justin's eyes froze with horror on how he knew
that. "Talk to me? Please?" he insisted softly. Justin turned his face
from his brother to the view of the stars but made no attempt to leave
the confines of his brother's embrace.

"It started over six to seven months ago, during the time I was being
held captive by the Alliance on board one of the Regents main ships."
He continued his voice steady but distant, for to be connected to the
story would prevent it from being told. "Garak supposedly made an
attempt on the Regents life and was thrown in the cell with me. After
awhile he was getting real sick from his injuries and the cold. I
found myself starting to take care of him, and then?" the voice
stopped with no sign of emotion, for the dam was up and he was trying
to keep it from breaking or again the story would not be told. With a
small breath the voice came back. "I found to my surprise that I was
attracted to him, I... wanted him. There was a prisoner exchange and I
flatly refused to leave my cell without him. Once back on the station
I tried to be in control of him in a forceful cruel manor, knowing
full well that I already lost my self to him. It didn't take long for
him to assert his will over me. I wanted him too... I..." the voice
cracked slightly.

"Needed him," Julian whispered, knowing that was what he wanted to
say. "As if there was some force around him that draws you to be in
his presence?" now Julian's voice drifted off with the sudden
realization why he knew what he brother was about to say.

His brother broke the embrace to face him. "Julian, I'm a traitor!" he
stated fast so to get it out. He waited to see his brother's reaction,
fearing he'd pushed him away and then he would have been truly alone.

But Julian with a small loving and understanding smile said, "I know."

Then the air became filled with quiet but Justin felt he had to
explain.

"I didn't directly do anything, but I've not done a lot of things?
like speaking up about Garak. Even when he?" his voice finally broke

"Beats you into submission. Exactly what kind of relationship do you
have with him?" Julian asked protectively of his brother.

"Were lovers of a sort." Justin's eyes shifted still unsure of his
brother's acceptance. "But that was how it started, I'm sure when he's
done with me or no longer amused by me he'll..." his voice cracked
again at the thought of the one he desperately needed killing him.
"Well, if he has any mercy for me he'll do it that way." He said
feeling that Julian knew his thoughts. "It would be more cruel and
unusual punishment if he just up and left." He mocked his own words
with laughter to mask the pain of the self-put down.

Julian was not only protective, but also angry, but not at his
brother. "Stop that! You are a valuable person and deserve better that
being treated like that. We both deserve being treated with
respect--and... and" now his voice cracked from the new pain he felt
for his brothers suffering. "And love. Stop feeling that you're not
enough!" he said in an officer's voice, but with sincere passionate
love for his brother. The missing part of his soul.

"But I'm not! That's just the whole point. I have no family, no
friends, everyone on the station hates me, the only reason O'Brien
keeps me around is because I'm a good pilot that hasn't gotten killed
on some of the stupid runs he's sent us on. I'm NOT GOOD ENOUGH, FOR
ANYONE! He shouted. His anger boiled so much that he jumped his own
brother not able to contain it anymore, the dam had broken. The two
struggled around the floor, but Justin was no match for Julian and
simply collapsed into agonized tears.

"I-- I-- I can't even take myself." A maddening laugh came thru his
tears. "I'm not good enough for anyone much less Garak."

The rest of the time the two brothers spent in their secret room was
filled with quite comfort as Julian supported and nurtured his broken
brother. He was seething with anger at the universe for doing this to
Justin, for seeing that the universe was trying to do it to him as
well. He know understood that it was 'not' and unfair advantage he had
received from his parents, but a step up?one that had he not had, he
too would have been broken, and this revelation stirred his anger even
more. He decided then to make a silent vow to himself and his brother.

They would no longer be the Universe's victims and not only be good
enough, but become all that they could be and more. He swore it from
the depths of his soul, even if it meant keeping Justin here, he would
help his brother become whole and give him every advantage he had plus
more if he could.

It wasn't intentional, but they both had fallen asleep in each other's
arms, still hidden away in the secret room. Julian was started awake
when his com badge beeped. "Dax to Bashir? Where are you?" her voice
revealing a tint of concern. Julian hit his com and replied. "I'm
here. What's wrong?"

"I came to the infirmary and found you and your alternate missing. I
asked the computer and it gave me some garbled reply. I was-- never
mind!" she seemed annoyed. "I came to update you and..."

 Bashir interrupted to give her the update on the changes made.
"Justin."

"Excuse me?" Dax asked confused.

"We talked and he is going to use the name Justin while here on the
station. I'll go into it later."

"Ok." Dax was curious, but let the matter drop. "I came to update you
and? Justin, on the time frame of his return back home. We'll be ready
to send him back next week and Captain Sisko has given the okay to
replace the lost supplies."

"Thanks. I'll see you later. I really should get Justin back to the
infirmary; this walk has taken more out of him than I thought." Julian
partially lied to keep any question on their doings from being
discussed.

"That's probably a good idea. Dax out"

"Your not in any trouble are you?" came Justin's sleepy voice. He
looked up at his brother with concern.

"No, not in the least. But? we do need to get you back to the
infirmary." He smiled warmly.

Justin didn't return the smile and looked down to the ground not
wanting to show his face, for he knew he couldn't hide his emotions
from Julian.

"What's wrong?" Julian asked gently.

"I heard." Justin paused. "I go back next week." He took a deep sigh
at the prospect and then tried to meet his brother's gaze with a brave
face. He noticed a glimmer in Julian's eyes that totally indicated
mischief.

"Not necessarily." Julian said. But hushed his brother from pursuing
the obvious line of questioning in his eyes. Together the brothers got
up, locked up and headed back to the infirmary.

Back in the Infirmary, Julian finished getting his brother 'tucked' in
and his treatment up to date as he walked into his office. His mind
was in a whirl of possibilities, but a week was definitely NOT enough
time for any of the potential plans he had in mind. He wanted his
brother well, so lingering sickness was out. No. There was only one
way to stall for time. With an almost sinister smile he turned and
left his office, almost completely unaware of the changes in himself.
The fire that burned in him was new and fierce; that of a loved one
protecting its own. The sinister look was immediately replaced with a
regular warm greeting as soon as he crossed the doorway.


****************** (End of Part TWO)

O'Brien was putting a lot of hours into the heap of junk, as he called
it. But Sisko was reverent about getting the alternate back to his
universe as soon as possible. Though O'Brien's crew was skilled, when
it came to making junk into functional equipment that was O'Brien's
specialty. Of course, being good at it didn't mean he always liked it.

The air was thick with Irish curses and was caught unaware of his
company. When he suddenly realized he was being watched he moved
quickly to see whom it was, but collided with the upper panel he was
exiting out from.

"Son-of-a--." O'Brien yelled.

"Chief! You really should give your vocabulary a rest," teased Julian.

"Let me take a look at that." The good doctor moved over and did a
quick look, no scanner needed, for it was clear it was just a bump.
O'Brien took in a couple of deep breaths so not to take his temper out
on his friend.

"Just what are you doing here?" O'Brien asked finally.

"I heard from Dax that you're going to have this up and running by
next week. Plus, I wanted to see the damage up close for myself. It
might give me some more understanding of some of his more minor
injuries." Said Julian so smoothly; that no one could tell it was a
lie. Even Julian him self was surprised at how easy those words come
out of his mouth, before today it would have been impossible.

"I thought you got a good look when it first docked?" inquired
O'Brien.

"If you recall chief, I was a bit to busy with the life of the pilot
to pay any real attention to the surroundings." He paused. "If it's
inconvenient?"

"Of course it's inconvenient, but--" O'Brien knew the stubborn Doctor
would only come back later and bug him again on the matter. If Julian
thought it was important to the pilot's health, then it probably would
be. "But, go ahead and take a look anyway if you like. But don't touch
anything. Ok?"

"I won't" smiled Julian at the warning from O'Brien. His hands behind
his back he preceded further into the shuttle surveying the situation
as O'Brien went back to work.  Julian kept a low profile as he
maneuvered in and around the shuttle, noticing what O'Brien and his
crew was doing. He was no engineer, but he knew enough to obtain the
desired results. He waited while all but O'Brien and himself left for
their lunch break. He made just enough inquiry to small rather
insignificant areas to keep Miles thinking he was still investigating
the pilot's surroundings.

"Its lunch time Miles, how about we get a bite?" He asked warmly.

"Nah, I've a lot to do." O'Brien replied absently. Then he remembered
why Julian was here and the burning question was did he find anything.

He pulled out of the panel he was working on and looked at his friend.

"By the way, did you find anything?"

"Nothing much." Julian said. "You know, if you don't keep your
strength up Miles, Keiko will never forgive me." He teased.

Just thinking of his wife getting all over Julian's case was amusing,
but then the thought of her getting on his case was not. Lunch was a
good idea after all. "Your right. Besides, I could use a break for
these wires are completely shot. I've had several shocks from them as
it is and the power is off." He grumbled.

Julian's eyes dances at the chief. Anyone looking at Julian would
think he was just amused at the torment his friend was gripping about,

but this was not the case. //Oh, Mile, your wonderful! You just
provided your own explanation as to what is about to occur. Thank you.
Now to get you safely out of here.//

As the two friends moved to exit the shuttle, Julian did a quick and
quiet scan of the area while O'Brien was wiping his face with a towel.

There was no one around but them, he sent the signal. Then they moved
out to the shuttle bay and just past the door when--

"BOOM!"  There suddenly came an explosion just behind them. O'Brien
was thrown into Julian who was thrown into the wall. Neither really
injured moved to the shuttle bay entrance and looked dazed at the now
burning pile of wreckage that was once a shuttle. It was totally
destroyed.

****************

"What the hell happened?" Demanded Sisko, glaring at the two officers
standing before him in his office.

O'Brien still just a little rattled at the thought of how close he
came to going up with that hunk of junk, hesitated with is reply.
"Captain, from what I can tell, it was an accident. The cup-link to
the generator overloaded and exploded."

"That doesn't make any sense Chief. How did the cup-link overload when
the power was to be off on board the shuttle?" Sisko glared. It was
not like O'Brien to make such a basic mistake as leave the power on.

"Sir," jumped in Bashir noticing that O'Brien was about to be raked
over the coals for this.

"Sir, Miles did mention just before we left that he was still
receiving shocks from the repair work even with the power off.
Indicating that there was still a lot of energy free flowing in the
circuitry." Bashir hoped it would be enough. He didn't want his friend
to suffer being accused of something he himself did, but? He let the
thought drop, convinced that this would work. Sisko had to believe it
was an accident.

"Is this true Chief?" asked Sisko, clearly seeing that if this was the
case then he could put his troubling thoughts about his head engineer
out of his head forever.

"Yes, that's true. I hadn't had a chance to locate the source of the
power surges, or file a report on it. I?"

"Let it go for now Chief. Just make sure you include everything in
your report." Sisko ordered, now relieved that it was an accident and
his friend was safe. "I guess we'll just have to find another means of
getting?" he turned to Bashir "Justin?" he asked to make sure he got
the update of the change right. Bashir nodded that it was so. "Getting
Justin home"

"He's going to need a ship if he's going to make it back through that
pinhole of an opening" injected O'Brien. "The only thing I can think
of is give him one of ours."

Julian felt panic rise with in him. If they just gave Justin a
shuttle, he could leave this week. That was not the plan. "What about
the technology difference?" he asked hoping that this was a valid
point.

"You have a point Doctor." Sisko agreed. Julian felt less fear of his
plan failing but made sure that none of this registered on his face.
//All those times with Garak actually paid off// he smiled to himself.

As the Chief and Sisko were debating ideas, the though of Garak gave
him another idea. But first he needed to see what was going to happen
here.

 "As I can see it, Chief," Sisko said, "The only option we have is to
rebuild a duplicate of the rebel shuttle."

"Rebuild!" O'Brien exclaimed. "Sir, that's going to take weeks if not
a couple of months!"

"I know, Chief. But I just can't hand over one of our shuttles with
all the latest StarFleet technology now can I? The man needs a ship
and needs to get back where he belongs. I'm leaving this matter in you
hands Chief, don't let me down." Sisko's mind was made up and the
order given. O'Brien grumbled his acknowledgment of the order and left
to start his almost impossible task.

"Doctor?" Sisko said before Bashir left the room. Julian turned to
meet his commander's inquiry.

"Yes sir?"

"How is Justin Bashir doing?'

"He's doing fine, Sir. The radiation treatment is doing the job and he
should be ready for discharge by the end of the week. Except for some
follow up treatment?" the doctor shrugged to indicate nothing serious
to follow that statement. "Since he'll need a place to stay and
someone to keep him out of trouble, would you mind if he stayed with
me?" Julian asked innocent enough.

"To keep him out of trouble," Sisko mused with a smile. "But Doctor,
whose going to keep you out of trouble?" It had been quite awhile
since he saw the Doctor smile with real delight and humor. It was
strange how his counterpart was having this effect on him. Sisko
himself didn't think he would take too well to meeting himself. "Very
well, Doctor. He's in YOUR custody." Sisko emphasized the word so
Julian knew that if there was a problem, it was his head on the
chopping block.

"Not a problem, Sir" smiled Julian and exited.

************

In the turbo lift, Julian's smile became even broader. Things were
working out great, so far. //Don't get too overconfident or you'll
start making mistakes.// He reminded himself. It was time to move on
to the next part of his plan, which being that he was making it up as
he went, was sure that this next move was the right one. As the turbo
lift let him off on the promenade he went in search of his friend the
tailor.

Garak was working in his shop politely arguing with an Andorian
merchant that the quality of the shipment ordered was not up to
standard and that he would not pay full price for it. Julian waited in
the wings of the shop, pretending to be a customer waiting his turn,
though being fully aware that Garak was winning the argument, of
course. Finally an agreement was made and the merchant left.

"Garak." Julian smiled his amusement of the earlier situation moments
ago.

Garak thoroughly pleased to see Julian in such a good mood returned
the warm smile. "My dear Doctor, what brings you here today?"

"First off," said Julian. "Justin is going to need some civilian
cloths while he's here. Second..."

"Justin being?" Garak asked unsure whom Julian was referring to.

"Oh, it probably hasn't gotten out fully yet." Julian chuckled with
just a bit of embarrassment that he assumed the tailor already knew
everything. "To keep things simple, my twin is taking his middle name
as well as a few minor cosmetic changes."

"I thought your middle name was--"

"It is, but not in the other universe. So, as I was saying. He's going
to need a few outfits. Can you help me with that?"

Garak smiled. "Of course doctor. Are you and he the same size?"

Julian thought about it a moment. "Probably not quite. So, it might be

better if you make just one or two a little big for now."

"As you wish." Garak replied happily, willing to help Julian in
anyway. "What was the second thing you needed?"

Julian was brought back to his original goal for coming here today.
His smile shifted into a nervous one and this piqued the tailor's
interest.

"Doctor?"

"Garak? I was wondering if I could talk to you about something."
Trying to hide his nervousness, but he knew Garak saw it.

"Of course, Doctor. What is it?"

"It's? It's kind of a delicate subject. Could we meet for dinner, say
my quarters?"

Garak was really intrigued now. What was the Doctor up to and just how
important was it; he needed to find out. "Well, I did have some plans
for this evening" Garak lied. "But if it's important?'

"I would really appreciate this Garak. To make it up to you, I'll
cook. Can we say, 20:00 hours then?"

Doctor Julian Bashir offering to cook for him! Now he had to find out
what was going on. "Yes. That would be fine." Replied the tailor
nonchalantly.

Julian smiled with renewed enthusiasm and was exiting his shop with
almost a bounce in his step. //Just what are you up to my good
Doctor?// Garak thought as the air of intrigue and mystery surrounded
him, but he forced himself back to work.

***********

It was 19:55 and Julian was putting the finishing touches on the
table. The setting was simple yet elegant in Cardassian fashion.
Julian took a deep breath as he looked around to find everything was
taken care of and ready for his guest for this evening. He then walked
into his bedroom and into the bathroom for one final check on his
appearance and stopped abruptly facing himself in the mirror,
wondering why it mattered so much. His thoughts stirred toward Justin
and his Garak and for the briefest moment allowed the thought to form
in his mind, when suddenly he felt and overwhelming sense of guilt.
//Oh, Justin. I'm sorry for sedating you tonight. I just wanted to be
sure you would be okay without me, and you being asleep in the
infirmary, was the only idea that gave me any sense of peace. If this
goes well, I'm sure it will more than make up for tonight.// Julian
sighed at his thought and just then the door chime rang. A quick look
in the mirror and another brush of his hair he was off to greet his
guest.

When the door to Dr. Bashir's quarters opened, Garak was more than
delighted to see that Julian had not only decided to cook for the
evening, but dress for it as well. The good doctor was not wearing his
stuffy uniform, but a pair of soft black pants, with a draping long
white shirt of the same soft material. Garak quickly realized that he
was staring at his friend as if he never saw him before and moved in
the door while handing his friend a bottle. The sudden act of being
handed an object was just what Garak needed to distract Julian from
taking any heed of the Cardassian's reaction.

"Well, Doctor. I must say that everything looks splendid," said Garak.

He looked around and noticed the simple Cardassian setting and smiled
at the thought of Dr. Bashir making him, feel at home. Then Garak's
senses took note of something in the air. "It's couldn't be?" he said,
in disbelief.

"It couldn't be what?" asked Julian, concerned that something was
wrong.

"It smells like-- but it couldn't be, could it? It smells like--
Kadarie!" Garak replied, as he turned to face his host. The smile on
Julian's face confirmed that his guess at what was for dinner was
correct. "My dear, Doctor... How in Gul's name did you know I loved
Kadarie?"

Julian couldn't help but laugh at his friend's earnest disbelief the
he was being served his favorite Cardassian food for dinner tonight.
"Garak, we've known each other for years now. During our many lunches,

I have taken the time to put to memory some or your likes and
dislikes." Julian's smile grew wider seeing the twinkle in his
friend's eyes. "Besides," he laughed some more. "It was one of the
easiest meals I could manage, being that cooking is not my forte, like
it is our good Captain."

"Well, I will refrain from my judgment of how it will taste, but? It
smells divine."

"Thank you, Garak. Do you think this Kanar will go well with the
Kadarie?"

"Well," Garak said, while musing over the bottle he had given Bashir
earlier, now seeing it placed on the dinning table. "Had I known that
you were serving Kadarie, I would have made a different selection?"

"I'm sorry; I wasn't sure what I was serving till I decided to make
it."

"It is quite alright, Doctor. Besides, the Kanar my not of been my
first choice, it will do nicely just the same." Garak interjected,
soothing his friends concern over a trivial matter.

"Shall we eat?"

"I am most looking forward to it, Doctor. Shall we?."

************

Garak sat back in his chair, sipping the Kanar, smiling over the
delicious meal he just had. It was not quite like home, but it was a
hundred times better than any replimate could make. He had to give his

good Doctor his due. "My dear, Doctor. If there were to be a cooking
contest, I would not be so quick to discount your talent in this
matter." He smiled and gave a sigh of delight and a full stomach.

"Why thank you, Garak," Julian blushed. He leaned over and gathered up

Garak's plate as well as his own and took them to be recycled. The
last hour and a half had been filled with good food, good Kanar, and a
lot of good small talk, but Julian knew it was now or never. "Garak, I
want to talk to you about something?" said Julian, as he seated
himself back at the dinning table.

"Ah, I was wondering when you would be getting to that?" Garak smiled,
for he knew what ever it was, it was most definitely important and
difficult, for Julian to go to so much trouble to make him feel
comfortable and be in a good mood.

Julian's smile wavered, as his throat became dry. He started to wonder
if this was a good idea or if he could even go through with it. He
then remembered that he blew up a shuttle for Justin, possibly putting
someone in danger had his timing been off. No, he had to help his
brother and the only other one able to understand and aid Justin in
his world was sitting across from him. With a deep sigh and a slight
cough to clear his throat, he began. "Garak, I need your help with
Justin, and I would appreciate it if you would just hear me out before
responding."

  With the request out, Julian noted that the rest was coming out far
more confidant then he believed himself capable. "Justin is," he
stumbled wondering how to put things, then decided direct was best.
"Justin is, one, in love you your counterpart, two, being abused by
your counterpart in some control game, so your counterpart can use him
for information or other activities on the station. Thirdly, Justin is
well aware of his position in the matter and is all too willing to
resolve himself to the matter, this I find unacceptable."  Julian
paused for a moment to see how is friend was taking this, and was
unsure how to read the Cardassian for he sat there unmoving taking in
the information being given as if it had been expected. This nerved
Julian a bit, but he decided to continue but with a zing to see some
reaction from Garak. "If he wants to be with his Garak, being a
traitor to the rebels, that's his choice, I just don't want him to be
a victim anymore? I want?" his voice failed him.

Garak was not that surprised to hear that Justin and his counterpart
shared a relationship of some kind. It was the only thing that made
any sense after Julian told him of the abuse his brother was receiving
from the other Garak on a regular basis. So everything the good Doctor
said he was able to process and still give his undivided attention to
his friend, but the last part about Julian stating that he didn't care
if his brother was a traitor in partnership with his alter ego,
surprised him considerably. "You're condoning his actions of being a
pawn, and betraying the rebels?" Garak asked questionably.

Garak's eyes meet his friend's across the table and he noted that
there was something in them that he never saw before and it came with
such intensity. He didn't understand what he was seeing develop in his
long-term luncheon companion, but this was intriguingly new and
passionate.

"First off, it's not my place to condone what he does in his world.
It's nothing like ours, and he doesn't have what I have?" Julian
stopped. A wave of anger and sympathy filled him as he remembered how
his brother was suffering in his universe.

"Are you ok?" Garak asked gently.

Julian tried to control his emotions, but lost a single tear to the
battle before continuing. "He doesn't think he has any worth besides
being a whipping post. But he's wrong!" Julian exclaimed. Anger now
taking place of pain, Julian became even more determined. "What I
want, Garak is for him to find his value and stop being a pawn. He's
determined to be by his Garak's side, so be it, but he doesn't have to
be his victim anymore."

The sudden flare of rage and protective passion that flew from Bashir
pleased Garak. He always knew the good Doctor had more in him than
simple naive compassions. He could see in Bashir's eyes that Julian
had a plan of some sort and it obviously included him. Questionably,
he raised an eyeridge. "Exactly how do I fit in to his not continuing
to be a victim of his universe?" He asked slowly, wondering just what
did the good Doctor think he could do in this matter.

"Teach him," was all Julian said, flatly, though with his eyes he
penetrated the Cardassian with his determination not to be turned
down.

"Teach him? Teach him what?" Garak replied, with a light evasive
smile.

Julian's eyes narrowed, his lips pressed firmly together at his
discontent of Garak's choice of being evasive where he had been so
direct. "You know what I'm talking about." He said, with a hint of
coolness that caught the Cardassian off guard. "You are the only one I
know that can teach him how to be the best in the deadly game he has
been drawn into. Teach him how to play. Teach him how to survive.
Teach him how to win!"

Julian's last few words came from a part of his soul that Garak never
knew existed, as it revealed itself in the almost deadly seriousness
of his request. Garak was completely taken back from what he
considered all of Dr. Julian Bashir's being, for this was very new. It
was then that Garak understood the strange look in his friends eyes,
the total resolution that he, Dr. Bashir, would do whatever it took to
protect his brother, and help him excel at whatever task was at hand.
He had never seen the doctor like this; but then again, Julian didn't
have any  other siblings either. But this was absurd; the counterpart
was not really his brother, yet? He could see that a strange bond was
present, and the look? that look was strong, determined, and deadly
serious. He never thought it possible that Julian Bashir could cause
him to feel a quiver of fear. //Yes,// he thought to himself, //I
think I like the new you, my dear Doctor.// and finally smiled back at
his friend.

"If I understand what you are asking me, it's going to take some time,
and last I heard Justin was due to depart within the week." Garak
said, calmly, residing that his friend did deserve a more direct
response, to a degree that is.

The deep seriousness in the deep dark eyes of Julian Bashir shifted
downward and to a slight state of guilt. "Didn't you hear?" almost
teasingly. "There was an accident in the shuttle bay, and though NO
one was hurt," he interjected strongly, "Justin's Shuttle was totally
destroyed. Captain Sisko has ordered another one built to its
specification; it could take weeks if not months."  Julian did not
meet Garak's eyes, knowing that his friend must some how know of his
involvement in the occurrence. "So, you see Garak, you have time." He
finished and poured himself another glass of Kanar. //When did I start
to like this stuff? // He asked himself and then brought his attention
back to the matter at hand.

Garak found himself even more stunned that he thought possible. Was he
hearing right? Did his long term friend, known for his compassion, his
gentle nature, his naiveté at the violent world around him, just
suggest that he might have had something to do with blowing up a
shuttle? //Maybe I'm not so sure I like this change in you, // He
thought to himself. He liked Dr. Bashir just the way he was and this
new behavior one was not of his regular character. The thought of his
friend being a changeling again was quickly erased from his mind.
During that time, the Changeling had avoided Garak knowing full well
that the Cardassian would have known the truth. No, this was his
friend, and he was changing right before his eyes. //Oh, my dear,
Doctor, what in Gul's name has happened to bring you to this cold
resolve? // his mind asked while the question was tugging at his
heart. It was then that Garak decided that if he helped Justin to be
the best, that somehow it may release Julian from his vice of
over-protectiveness, or so he was hoping. "Very well, Doctor, but
under one condition and it is NOT up for negotiations."

"What is it?" Julian asked, hoping that it was something he could live
with, for his own sake as well as Justin's.

"I will take him under my tutorage, if he accepts it of course?"

"Of course, continue."

"But EVERTTHING that occurs between a teacher and his student will
remain just that. You will not interfere on ANY level. That includes
asking questions on what occurs. It will be, quite frankly, none of
your business. Do I make myself clear?"

Julian sat back in his chair and released a sigh. He had expected
Garak not to want him apart of the training. He was curious as to what
it might entail, but-- //It's not my world, and your right Garak, I
don't belong in it. // Out loud he gave his consent to the agreement.
"I understand and I accept your terms. I'll talk with Justin tomorrow?
He doesn't know about you yet."

"You have done so much, and made so many plans and arrangements on his
behalf," Garak said carefully not indicate any accusation, "and he
doesn't even know what you're doing?" he finished.

He was surprised to find that not only was his friend going beyond the
bounds of character, he was making drastic judgments on the behalf of
his brother without consulting him. Garak's brow narrowed with concern
over the changes he was witnessing tonight. //Just what is in your
soul tonight, my young friend that you would conjure up such dark
deceptions within your self? // Garak knew there was nothing he could
do at the moment, and decided to take this matter in hand one day at a
time. "Very well, Doctor. I'll leave the introduction of your plan to
you. If he is willing, contact me, and then the three of us will have
a short gathering. After which, the rest will be between him and
myself, understood?" With that said, Garak stood and made his way to
the door. It was late and he felt he could not take anymore of the
radical changes evolving in his friend this night.

"Understood." Said Julian, watching his friend getting ready to
depart. "Garak?"

Garak turned from the door and saw the blushing, sweet smile of his
friend, returned from the darkness as fresh as ever. "Yes?"

"Thank you." Julian whispered, and let his eyes fall as his friend
left with a nod to the appreciation given.

************** (End of Part THREE)

Julian entered the infirmary fully aware of the reception he would be
getting from his brother. He was not disappointed when he saw Justin
sitting in the biobed arms wrapped about himself, with an all too
familiar pout. Julian met his brother's eyes with warmth, "I'm sorry,"
he said sincerely. "You overtaxed yourself the other day, and I wanted
to make sure you got all the needed rest." He knew he would have to
tell his brother the rest of the truth, but here was not the place or
the time. "Am I forgiven?" he asked Justin softly.

Justin's eyes twitched at the sincere manner of his brother. //How am
I supposed to be angry with him? He's the ONLY one who really cares
about me, and strangely understands me.// Justin released his
frustration toward his newfound brother in one big sigh. His lips
curled to form a crooked grin, "Oh, very well." He laughed. "But just
don't do it again, ok?" He met his brother's eyes to see that his
lightness of the situation at hand was not going to lose the
seriousness of the statement just said. He saw that Julian did
understand, and once again become even surer that he did find the
other half of his soul.

"Your treatments are going well, and after a few tests today, I think
I'll be able to release you." Julian informed his brother happily.

"Does that mean I'll get a chance to look around some more?" Justin
inquired with a mischievous look.

"Well, after I get you settled in, by the way, due to lack of
quarters, you're going to be staying with me, is that ok?"

Justin was filling with glee at the prospect of spending more time
with his brother, but his pessimistic nature reminded him it would
only be for a few days. "That would be fine. I think I can manage to
tolerate you for the next few days." Justin replied, trying to be
happy about the idea, but not quite hiding the note of sorrow of his
soon to be departure.

"Oh, didn't I tell you?" Julian interjected with the same mischievous
look his brother had only moments ago. "There was an accident in the
shuttle bay. Thank fully no one was hurt, but your shuttle was totally
destroyed, apparently due to some energy leakage or something. Captain
Sisko has ordered a replica to be built, and that is going to take a
while." His eyes were glowing with delight at the thought of his
brother staying longer than originally thought. Julian was even more
pleased to see his thoughts equally returned in Justin's face. Then
the expected happened.

"Energy leak? How?" The question was innocent enough, for Justin
couldn't believe his luck, but the reaction of his brother shifting
away his eyes and a touch of guilt befall his features, Justin knew
then it was more than a matter of luck. "Julian?" as asked slowly.

"We'll talk later." Julian said, his eyes only meeting his brothers to
confirm that this was not the time or the place for the conversation
that needed to take place. Julian walked over to the medicine cabinet
and retrieved the treatment dose for today. He also gathered a few
empty vials as well, before returning to his brother's side. "I need
to take a few blood samples after your treatment, then I'll get you
discharged after a few test, then it'll be off to our quarters. Then"
stressing the last word, "we'll go and talk, ok?"

Justin shook his acknowledgement and lay back to allow his brother to
do his job. Though neither spoke for the rest of the duration of their
time together in the infirmary, neither felt any distance from one
another. It was accepted that what they wanted to mutually discuss
would have to wait till all the necessities were taken care of. Justin
watched his capable and competent brother, as he went about his task
of healing the sick and injured that came and went from the infirmary.

Justin could not help but smile, his brother was graceful, confident,
and good at what he did. //If only...// Justin sighed. //Stop that!//
He said to himself. //I'm here now and I have an opportunity of a
lifetime.// He gave another quiet sigh. //I may not be deserving of
this, but I'll be damned if I'm going to mess this up with my
self-pity. I'm not going to lose him!// Justin was filled with a sense
of determination, and was taken back at realizing just how long since
he felt that way about anything lately. //Julian, you're going to be
good for me, and I swear I won't let you regret this.// He had to
blink back tears, for he didn't want his brother to be distracted by
another of his emotionally follies. A few more deep breaths and he
controlled them. Justin then thought it best to nap while he waited.

***************

Hours had passed and Justin was now standing in Julian's living room.
He looked around and couldn't help comparing how they were so similar
and yet so different from his own. He reached under the long satin
royal blue shirt that he now wore and adjusted the drawstring of the
matching pants. The cut was loose but very fitting and very well made.

Julian informed him that he had a very talented friend who made the
outfit and as soon as time permitted would be more than glad to make
Justin a few more outfits. The thought of Julian's friends and that
maybe somehow could become his own as well, warmed Justin
significantly. He was stirred from his thoughts by Julian's voice
beckoning him to the bedroom.

"It's not much, but I had the small sitting couch removed and another
bed placed in. It's smaller, but not to worry, I've slept on worse."
Julian grinned. He didn't mind in the slightest of making a simple
sacrifice as bed size for his brother.

"Oh, Julian. This is your room. I'll take the smaller bed, besides,
I'm the guest" Justin retorted warmly.

"Your not a guest, you're more, you're my brother. And besides, I
insist!" The love and concern followed by the playful smile all shined
in Julian's face.

"Julian?" His words cut off by the gestured of his brother's soft
finger on his lips. Justin couldn't help but suppress a quiver as a
tingle danced through his lips with Julian's simple touch.

"It's settled. Knowing us, we could debate this for hours and neither
one of us getting anywhere." Julian smiled bigger seeing that his
brother knew this to be true as well and conceded to the point. "Now,
let's get you settled and go talk, okay?"

Justin nodded his head and moved to unpack the few things his brother
had gotten him for his stay on the station. He was content with the
way things were and saw no point on arguing over something trivial. He
was here with Julian and that was what really mattered. He just
finished putting away the last shirt, when his eyes when to an item
sitting on a shelf across the bedroom. "I can't believe it!" he said,
crossing the room and passing Julian who just returned from the
replicator with two cup's of tea.

"What?"

"It's Kukie!" Justin replied and took a small old stuff bear down from
the shelf and looked at it reminiscently and affectionately.

"You had Kukalaka, too?" Julian asked astonished.

Justin turned to meet his brother's face at the sound of the absurd
name of his newfound companion of old. "Kuka-what?"

"Kukalaka." Julian replied with a touch of child hood pride and
pointed to the bear in his brother's hands.

Justin couldn't help himself and busted up laughing. He saw his
brother's eyes shift with puzzlement and through breaths tried to
explain the humor. "Kukie, Kukalaka?. So similar and so different." He
wiped a tear from his eye from the harsh laughter as he breathed deep
to calm himself. He was pleased that Julian finally saw the humor
behind his brothers laughing and chucked himself.

"I guess we're the only ones who could come up with such strange
names as those for a stuff bear." Still chuckling over the thought he
handed his brother one of the cup's he was holding.

Justin looked at the bear once more fondly and placed it back on the
shelf. "I lost Kukie along time ago, somewhere in the mines." His face
grimaced at the recollection of the past. Subconsciously he sipped on
his tea, and then swallowed hard at the sweet taste.

"I'm sorry; I shouldn't have assumed that you liked Tarlikan tea."

"I do like Tarlikan tea Julian, it's just... This is too sweet for my
taste," Justin replied apologetically toward his brother.

"Similar but different."  Julian's lip pressed together in a knowing
smile and nodded his head to indicate that once again this was to be
an on going understanding between the two brothers. Seconds later
Julian piped in that the problem was easily fixed, and after both
enjoyed a good cup of tea they headed to their secret hiding spot to
talk.

It didn't take long for the two brothers to make themselves
comfortable once again in their dark hidden room. The main door was
closed and the wall open to reveal the beauty of space that shed
enough light to dismiss the use of another light source. The two
brothers found themselves also back into the same position in which
they awoke only a few days ago, in each other's arms, Julian
protectively holding Justin taking in the mystery of the cosmos before
him.

"I can see why you would prefer this spot to any other on the
station." Julian mused. "It's so detached and yet so..."

"Safe." Justin finished. He took a deep sigh wishing that this moment
would last forever. That he and his?brother?would remain together and
safe from the universe at large. But he knew the absurdity of that
thought, but decided to entertain the delusion for as long as he
could. It wasn't going to be long, for he had questions and he knew
Julian had answers he wanted to share. "Did you really do it?"

"Do what?" Julian mused again, coming back from where ever the cosmos
had taken him. "Oh," was all that slipped out as his face turned away
filling with guilt.

Justin reached up and gently turned his brother's face toward him so
he could look in his eyes. "There is NO judgment between us. We accept
each other completely, that is what's at the basis of this bound
between us, is it not?"

Julian saw the wisdom of his brother's words to be true. They did
accept each other unconditionally and he saw that it always would
remain so. His guilt dwindled, for his being would not let it be
dismissed, but in the presence of his brother, Julian knew his actions
were understood. "You are right." He gave a small warm smile, then a
deep sigh. "I needed time to help you, and getting rid of the shuttle
seemed the only way. I was there for hours fussing to make sure no one
was hurt, and no one was!" The need to clarify this point came out
passionately.

"I know the gentleness of your soul, Julian, and understand." Justin
hugged his brother lovingly. After a few moments of the embrace Justin
added, "Do I really appear to be so pathetic?"

It was Julian's turn to cup his brother's chin so they could have
their eye's meet. "YOU are NOT pathetic! The universe around us has
victimized you, like me, only you have had the largest amount, and I
am tired of it! I swore I would put an end to our vulnerable status in
both our universes, and I will!" Julian's word came with such passion
and conviction that it brought tears not only to his own eyes but
Justin's as well. "I have a plan that will give you some of the
advantages in my life, if you're willing that is?"

Justin reached up and wiped the tears, first from his brother's cheek,
letting his fingers linger a moment before wiping his own. "What is
it?"

"Listen carefully and I shall explain."

After Julian had told his entire plan, Justin felt the need to stand
and gently pulled away from his brother's embrace and stood up. His
body seemed to need the physical activity to help process the
idealistic words spoken by Julian. //Was it possible? Can I achieve
such things? And what of this... this... Garak. Can he also help me
the way Julian has suggested?// He paced slowly his eyes glancing
toward Julian's every other minute. //Oh, my dear sweet beautiful
brother. Your conviction of your plan is evident, but mine is not
present. Can I dare myself to believe all you're offering me can
really happen? I could not stand to be a disappointment to you. // He
took several deep breaths' knowing that Julian was still watching him,
patiently. //No! I will not be a disappointment to you, my dear
brother. You are right in that I do not know all that I can be till I
give it my all to try.// He stopped pacing facing the stars and seeing
the universe stretched before him. //Some how you have been as cruel
to him as you have been to me. His conviction for us to stand against
you, while he may have to carry my own in this for a time, but we will
stand together and overcome and rewrite our roles in your cosmic
play.// He straightened his poster to reflect his determination, if
not his total belief of this plan to work, and turned to face Julian.
"I'm with you, all the way!"

Julian stood thrilled to see his brother was in agreement with his
plan. "The arrangements with Garak have already been made. I'll
introduce you and remain long enough for you to get comfortable as
possible under the circumstances. As I said earlier, I promised not to
ask questions or interfere with his methods one you agreed to his
tutoring on this part."

"I understand," replied Justin, a little nervous at meeting Garak,
even if it was not his Garak, it was Garak none the less. "What about
the other part?"

"Well, that's why I took all those blood samples, it'll be a while
before I will have an acceptable answer, but I'm confident that I will
find one."

"You do realize, what you are thinking of doing is illegal?" Justin
asked softly.

"I'm the one who told you that, so of course I know." Julian smiled at
his brother, then noticed Justin's head shift down ward and no longer
met his eyes. "What's wrong?"

"Am... am I, am I really worth it?"

The child like voice of Justin matched his own voice, when not to long
ago, when Julian's own doubts of self worth had overtaken him. Julian
found his answers through the actions of his friends, and, now that he
thought about it, through Garak. Julian walked up to his counter part
and gently, but firmly raised his chin and their eye's met. "YES!
Completely!"  Tears fell once again from the eyes of both men, and to
seal the understanding they embraced, and Julian gave Justin a kiss on
the cheek, but the pull between them was so strong that it quickly and
easily turned to a loving kiss on the lips. "We're not alone anymore,"

Julian whispered and the embrace tightened as their lips met again to
explore another kiss of love.

Justin pulled back slightly, "This is not something brothers do," he
said in a soft needy whisper, before kissing Julian once more
passionately.

"That's because we're more than that," Julian replied as they kissed
even deeper, the passion between them centered in the kiss and no
where else.

 If sacred moments when they occurred in the universe were signified
by some cosmic glory, the moment between the two men would have the
universe active in response, for the bond between them became deeper
and stronger than words could ever reflect. The two became one, and
the universe would have to deal with them as such from now on.


***********************


In the four months that passed since that special moment in their
hide-away, the Bashir brothers almost became legendary on the station.

The uncanny sensation that regular twins may have normally provided
was doubled in the presence of the brothers. It didn't take long
before the residences and the crew could tell the difference between
Julian and Justin out of uniform and at a distance. It was more than
just the facial hair that made Justin different from his loving,
compassionate brother; it was his poster and development of more
controlled mannerisms and a cool gleam in his eyes that set him a part
from Julian. Those who had not witnessed Justin in the company of
Julian would think the man had grown as cold and reserved as a Vulcan
would. This appraisal was not far from the truth, for he seemed to
have gained some mastery over himself and it showed in every movement,
only those who have seen him interacting with Julian and their friends
could tell that the same soul that made the brothers special was fully
intact. Today was such a day as the brothers were ganging up on Mile
O'Brien at the dartboard.

"Ha! Another triple twenty!" Justin exclaimed with a hardy smugness at
the stout Irishman whose jaw was now hanging open.

"Bloody Hell!" Miles gasped and whirled on Julian who was behind him
collecting some latinum from Quark. "I don't know how you did it, but
I would swear that you either switched places or you slipped him some
of that DNA of yours!" He growled.

Julian turned to face his friend and a Cheshire cat smile grew wide on
his face. "First of all Miles, Justin and I have not 'switched' places
and you know that. Second, that DNA remark is not only outrageous but
impossible." He walked over to Justin and split the winnings, still
laughing at Miles frustration of loosing to his brother, again.
"Really Miles, I just don't know what gets into you sometimes." Julian
said, as his eyes met his brothers. Had Miles been paying any real
attention to the brothers he would have caught the steely knowing
glance that occurred seconds before Miles gave a congratulation pat on
Justin's shoulder.

Across the crowded bar of Quark's Garak moved contently and casually.
He headed to the stairs that led to the holosuite in which he had
reserved some time. He stopped at the bottom for a brief second and
glanced toward the Bashir brothers and then headed up. He was not
impressed at first with Justin. When their training began Garak
thought he had overestimated the young man's talent, comparing them
too close to his brother Julian. Garak thought he would have to revise
his entire itinerary and move to a more basic one. He was just about
to do so when Justin came down with the Altarin flue.

Normally this would just have posed as an inconvenience for many, but
as Julian pointed out, it was serious in his brother's case for he
never had the immunity shots that are standard for most humans if they
are traveling in space. This along with the fact that this flue
probably didn't exist in Justin's world and so no basic immunity was
developed only added to his poor turn in health. Julian first had his
brother in the infirmary and then things got worse for the virus
mutated and his brother had to be quarantined. Julian did what he
normally did and held his vigil over his brother, but when Justin was
quarantined, Julian made it clear that NO ONE but him could take care
of him correctly.

After a week, the other doctors had no choice but to back down and let
things take their course. After two weeks of touch and go, Julian
announced that Justin was going to be fine and back to normal in a few
days. It was afterward that Garak noticed the change in Justin, he no
longer struggled with the lessons but began to excel, and soon Garak
found himself the proud mentor with an exceptional protégé'. Today
would be one of the final lessons, for anything else would mean
actually putting things into practice and the time of Justin's
departure was close at hand. Garak gave into a puzzled smile at the
thought of how one thing after another seemed to happen, keeping
Justin here on the station? if he didn't know better? but the thought
of Julian doing such things was ridiculous, right? Garak shook the
thought from his mind and entered the suite.

Of Course, if Garak, really, knew what was going on, he would be
either furious or doubly proud. He knew that the brothers were close,
but didn't know just HOW close. He didn't know that Justin told Julian
everything so Julian could keep his promise and not ask. Garak also
didn't know that he was training two students in the basics, for his
lessons where being passed on from one brother to the next. He didn't
know that Julian was not only capable of being a fast learner, but
more practiced in the art of deception than anyone on the station
would have guessed. He didn't know that Julian and Justin shared more
than looks, but all things. No, he only believed that his student was
the only one to catch the very subtle hint for class to begin, he was
wrong. As if rehearsed a million times over, the brothers went into
motion, Julian distracting their company and Justin convincingly
excusing himself to vanish into the crowd. The brothers worked off
each others cue's with stunning efficiency that their company would
never have a clue to how they were just played, another game, set and
match, station 0 Bashir's all!

Justin moved quietly up the back staircase to the holosuite in which
he knew his 'final exam' was awaiting him, his mind whirled in anxious
activity. The master interrogator would be doing just that,
interrogating him, and if he wanted to score 'points' as it were, he
had to find a way to, one put his interrogator off balance, and to
score really big, take control of the situation. Justin had a plan,
knew it was playing dirty, but his mentor should appreciate it, for
the "ends DO justify the means" was the main lesson learned. Besides,
if it went half as well as he was hoping he could pay his brother back
a portion of what Julian had given him, and he had given him so much?
He braced himself before entering the suite. He knew what was to be
expected, to a degree, and his research on Cardassian interrogations,
thanks to Julian, he knew even more. The Vulcan persona took its place
over the human and he entered the dark room.

He quietly spoke the words that students use to respect their masters
with perfect Cardassian and moved to the lit circle in the center of
the room, and waited. No sign of impatience on his face or in his body
language, for that would have flunked him right then and there. He
closed his eyes though never lessening his awareness of the situation,
but increased it, for his sight could aid him little but sound, smell,
that proved very helpful. He could hear breathing in the far back
corner to his right, and the smell of various Cardassian spices and
fabrics was in the air- it was definitely Garak. Justin remembered the
lesson given, //The best way to take control is to let your captive
think they are in control and make the first move, then size up the
situation and proceed with caution.// His mentor was right, and for a
moment he felt that his entire final would be simply a matter of wills
as to who would break the silence first, but as far as Justin was
concerned, it would either end in a tie or he would win, end of story.

Justin was now able to tell that exactly one hour thirty-four minutes
and seventeen seconds passed with his standing there unmoving and
silent, waiting for his mentor to strike. He could tell that his
mentor was about to end the standoff by the rustle of material of a
person preparing to move and doing so. When he sensed that Garak was
in the lighted area by the sense of his proximity, Justin opened his
eyes. //The games a foot!// He exclaimed to himself.

"Tell me Justin," came the smooth tones of the skilled Cardassian.
"Tell me what you believe is the cause of your good fortune for
staying on the station as long as you have?"

Justin ignored him as if Garak was not even in the room. //It's not
time yet. Patience. Ignore him and he'll have to press, just wait.//
He thought, but nothing registered on his face or in his eyes, unless
Justin wanted too, and now was not the time.

"Don't be like that Justin, you know that you can make this easy for
you if you just tell me what I want to know, for if you don't?" Garak
left the open possibilities linger in the air. //Not a flinch, not a
twitch. Is it because he thinks I won't?? No, he knows I will and
have? well, this is very good. It is almost a pity to force you to
fail, but?// Suddenly Garak stepped in front of Justin and slapped him
hard across the face.

Only Justin's head moved to absorb the harsh hand that stuck his face.

Then he moved it back into place as if it never happened; only the red
mark gave any indication to what just occurred. //Not yet, soon, not
just yet.// He remained unmoved to Garak's presence. //He will either
get more violent or move to making indications and accusations, the
latter being more like him. I best brace for the first and in the
process give him something he thinks he can work with.// In Justin's
mind he smiled, but outwardly he gave the slightest indication of a
deep breath, indicating his body was being prepared for an assault.

Garak noticed the breath and needed to calculate whether it was
intentional or not. He circled his prey several times before speaking
again. "I wonder what your dear, precious, innocently naive brother
would think, if he knew what you've been doing to keep from leaving?"
Garak smiled for he knew this area was a weak point, and was only a
little pleased to see Justin's eyes shift at the statement, but not
the way he hoped. Justin's eyes suddenly seemed like they were
laughing at him, this was not acceptable. "You're not worthy to be his
brother," came the sting.

"And you love him." Replied Justin in turn. "Don't you?" He moved only
his eyes to see Garak's response and forced himself from becoming
arrogant at seeing he scored.

//How dare he!// Garak's mind roared. //How dare he bring up such a
topic, that? that was 'unfair'? But didn't I teach him to go for the
jugular? Then I shouldn't be so angry when he does it, as he just did.

Well, I'm still the teacher and I will show him whose master.//
Garak's eyes gained their control and smiled at Justin. "Ah, what
foolishness are you inventing to sway this conversation?hmm?"

"I thought so." Smirked Justin with a smug smile.

"Thought what?" replied Garak before he realized he just fell for one
of the oldest tricks in the book.

"That you DO love Julian." Justin's face beamed with smug delight,
knowing this would irritate Garak, and this was the point right? "It's
no use to try and deny it now, for any attempts would only look
foolish on your part? No..." he sighed, "No, you had your chance and
you blew it." //Time for the next step.// "Tell me. Elim?" using his
first name to cause more discomfort toward Garak, "How come you've
never told him, pursued him, taken him even? I mean, WE both know how
incredibly naive he is when it comes to such matters," he lied easily
enough. He whirled his last question to Garak by turning and meeting
his eyes and trying to look so much like Julian as he could.
//Score!//

Garak wanted to slap him for saying such stupid things and did so. "I
respect Julian! How dare you cheapen him!" He couldn't resist his
anger and slapped Justin again, having separated the two in him mind a
long time ago. Garak took a deep breath to try and control his temper,
but then he heard Justin's next statement.

"According to Quark, the going price for Julian's bed is up to eight
bars of gold press latinum, and here you could have him for free, what
a--" the words never came, for Justin saw the attack and tumbled to
his left to avoid the Cardassian. Garak was furious and death was in
his eyes, it was time to defuse this matter, now! "I win!" He
exclaimed coolly, and stood but still ready for another assault.

"What?"  The words 'I win' sunk into Garak as he whirled back on
Justin. It took a few moments to gather himself and realize that
Justin said what he did to manipulate the situation, and had done it
very well. Justin indeed did win much too Garak's pleasure and shame.
Then he remembered that Justin had the inside track, as it were,
having a relationship with his alter ego and therefore knew the truth,
others would not have been able to use such a tactic. This brought
some relief to Garak and he was once again in control.

"Excellent!" Garak smiled at his protégé', "Better than I expected,
but then I didn't think you would have stooped so low, but?" he smiled
even more, "You have surpassed most of my expectations, why should
this case be any different. Congratulations."

Justin only gave a formal bow to his mentor and teacher. "You honor
me, sir."

"It is unfortunate that I will not be able to teach you much more, but
you know all that you need to get you in the door with my counter
part. Use this knowledge wisely, and remember, self first, him second,
for I would hate for such good work to go to waste."

Justin could not help but smile at the compliment. "Sir?"

Garak enjoyed Justin's company almost as much as Julian and since the
lesson was over it was all right for the student to speak without
being spoken too. "Yes?"

"It would honor me as well as my brother if you would join us for
dinner this evening, a celebration as it were, would you come?"

Justin's dark eyes pleaded the same way Julian's did, //sigh, those
damn eyes!//  "I would be honored and pleased to join you, what time?"

"19:00, if that's ok?"

"Very well." Garak moved and extended a hand in human friendship to
his protégé', "Congratulations again." After the two men shook hands
Garak left, he had a lot to contemplate, especially being out
maneuvered by a student, and about Julian no less. He wanted to have
this all sorted out before the dinner this evening. He didn't see the
mischievous grin appear on his student's face before the doors to the
holosuite closed behind him.

***********

 The door to the hide-away opened to let Julian Bashir enter. His face
was all a glow with anticipation as his eyes locked with his brother
already there. "Well? How did it go?"

He couldn't control it, his face beamed with triumph, "I won!"

Julian grabbed his brother and gave him a huge hug and a deep kiss,
"Congratulations, I knew you could do it!" then relaxed his hold to
face his brother, "How did you do it?"

"It's not important how it did it, just that I did it."  He beamed at
his brother. "You know, I don't think he has a clue that you're the
one causing all the time delays." Stated Justin to change the subject,
he didn't mean to make his brother feel guilty, but could see that was
the case by the shift of emotion in his brother's eyes.

"As much as I've tried, Sisko and StarFleet are persistent as ever
that you go back. I don't?" the pain and sadness was all to clear in
Julian's soft voice. He felt His brother hug him again, this time
tighter and more comforting. Julian held on tightly, not wanting to
let go ever.

"I don't really want to go back either, but isn't it why I've been
preparing for the last few months? We both knew this was going to
happen, but I have no intentions of leaving you behind!"

Julian looked up at his brother puzzled and pained. "What do you mean?
I can't go with you, I?"

"I didn't mean that." He smiled softly, "Since I've gotten this
wonderful intellect, thanks to you," meeting his brother's eyes to see
Julian blush with pride and a slight touch of shame, very slight. "I
thought that in my situation I would take advantage and learn all the
technical and engineering I could. I found a way that we can
communicate on a fairly regular basis."

Julian's eyes widen with joy, "Really? How?"

Justin then broke the embrace and led Julian to a panel that was now
off the back wall of their room. "After I put in that signal diverter
that I got from Quark, I noticed when installing it, this place has
its own power source, though small. I've just set this up?" he pointed
to a small black box with several data chips plugged in them. "I've
set the device to pick up a special band frequency that will normally
go unnoticed by Ops, and it won't take over the power source from the
diverter? that is if you still want to come here and have everyone
thinking your somewhere else?" he asked teasingly.

Julian chuckled. "That sounds nice, but what good does this do when
you going to be in another universe all together?"

"Faith brother! Besides, I've already looked into that. Between your
research and that of Dax's, I've discovered that with just a touch of
recalculation, that 'hole' between our worlds can be left open enough
for a very fixed signal to fit through. What do you think?"

"I was about to ask you how you got Dax's research, since she's made
point to keep us out of that particular loop, but I know better don't
I?" he laughed as did Justin. "I must admit I was bothered to learn
that they were attempting to seal off the 'leak' once and for all.
It's not that I don't understand it's just?"

"You don't need to tell me, I know. This way, they will think that
they succeeded and like all the other things we share, we'll share
this as well, okay? Oh, I also fixed the device to send the info on
the data chip in these slot," indicating the two slots to the left
marked in green, " and receive in these slots," indicating the ones
marked in red. "This way you don't have to be present and just leave
and pick the messages at your convenience. I also placed a small
backup battery and a marking signal, incase this room go up or
something, this way you can still find the box and stuff."

Julian beamed with pride and love at his brother. "You've thought of
everything! We should set a time schedule. Like once a month, so not
to increase the chances of the signal being detected."

"Sounds good. I'll send you a message as soon as I'm settled and have
my box installed, with all the same back ups, then I'll just have to
look forward a whole month for a reply."

"Not likely, for I'm going to want to know that it worked, and then
wait a month ok?"

"Okay, but? If you need me?"

"Same here." Julian smiled, knowing that it would take more than what
StarFleet had to offer on sealing the doorway, to keep them apart if
the need demanded it. Justin then leaned in and touched his lips to
Julian's. Though they never went beyond kissing, and some light
touching as they slept together at night, he cherished the intimate
contact with this man more than Garak, and knowing Bashir that was
saying something.  When the kiss ended a small panting smile appeared
on both men's faces.

"Oh, by the way, I've invited Garak over for dinner tonight, 19:00
hours, so don't be late. I'll bring you a set of cloths that you can
change into, so you don't have to change at the last minute. You're
still off at 19:00 right?"

"Yeah, but I don't see why I have to change for dinner."

"Hey, it's my dinner party and I make the rules!" smile Justin "I
better get going if I'm going to serve more than replicated stuff."

Julian laughed at his brother's mystery and fuss over the dinner,
"You never complained before about the food!"

Justin stopped just by the exit, "I'm not complaining now, I just want
to do better than that." He gave a mischievous grin and left his
puzzled brother behind.


************** (End of Part FOUR)


It was almost 19:00 hours and Julian was changed in the outfit his
brother brought, and now walked in the midnight blue silk shirt and
white form fitting pants that Garak had made him several weeks ago. He
just turned the corner to his quarters to meet Elim Garak coming
around the other bend. "My dear Doctor, I must say you look most
charming this evening. I didn't realize this was anything more than
just casual."

Julian couldn't help but smile. To see Garak fishing for information
on this dinner arranged by his brother was charming, but not as much
as seeing him fish for a compliment on his own attire. //You do look
exquisite, my friend, // thought Julian looking at the rich dark brown
tunic lightly trimmed with gold and matching pants. "You look very
nice your self, Garak, and thank you," came the proper response of
years of etiquette. They two men reached the door at the same time,
and since it was his quarters, Julian entered first. He was about to
announce that Garak was with him when his eyes fell upon the scene
before him.

Justin was just finishing lighting the candles when he heard the door
open to find both Julian and Garak together. //Perfect!// He turned
and greeted the two men and like a good host escorted them in before
any protest could be spoken. "Garak, would you like to have a seat?"
Justin said, indicating one of the two chairs at the table. When Garak
didn't move, he knew it was time to move to plan - B. He was expecting
this, the two of them wondering why the dinner was only for two,
dozens of candles providing the only light and soft music in the
background. He had hoped they would just get the hint, but no, he knew
how he would act, and so was not surprised to hear Julian's
reactionary question.

"Justin, what? what's going on here?" asked Julian a touch confused
and shy.

"My dear sweet brother and Mentor. This is just my way of paying you
back for all that you've given me." He looked and saw that his
statement would not be enough if he wanted them to have the evening he
envisioned for them. //Forgive me.//  His face turned red with anger,
with a pout that matched any child that didn't get what they wanted.
"The two of you are impossible! Here I am going to all this trouble to
arrange a romantic dinner for you, so the two of you can finally
confess to each other how much you love one another, and all I get is,
what's' this about?"  Justin stormed passed them to the door, still
trying not to show that he was far from mad, but laughter, from the
look of guilt and stunned awareness of the situation. He turned to
face the two special people in his life and continued his charade.
"Eat, don't eat, I don't care. I'm outta here and if you're lucky,
you'll see me in the morning," then stormed his way out the door. He
did his part; the rest was up to them

Justin's feeling might have been a tinged hurt had he not stayed
outside the door long enough to hear the burst of laughter coming from
within. Julian and Garak didn't buy the tantrum in the least, but the
fact that Justin had played cupid and confessor for both men, did
bring a strange awkwardness as well as relief in the room. Julian knew
that Justin wouldn't have placed either one of them in this position
unless he was sure, and that meant the Garak loved him. //Oh, Elim!//
But he was still nervous, for he still didn't hear Garak say it, but
he didn't deny it. He took in a deep breath and moved to the table.
There were two plates with covers to keep the food warm. He kept his
face hidden, for his felt the flush fill his cheeks, especially when
he felt Garak's eyes on him. For a distraction Julian lifted the cover
to find a large bowl of strawberries on his plate. This unexpected
discovery was enough for him to forget his blushing and look at Garak,
puzzled.

"Surly your brother didn't expect you to dine on mere fruit?" The
curiosity got to Garak and he lifted the cover on his plate and found
a bowl of whip cream, and raised and eyeridge.

It was then that Julian saw the whole picture, the typical
strawberries, cream, and? he looked and saw the Champaign, and smile.
//How romantic, just like I would have planned it, had I had the
nerve. But why waste any more time with trivial regrets. That is the
past, and tonight?// he couldn't help but let a sigh of desire pass
his lips as he looked at Garak, now smiling as he too got the point of
this evening. Julian braced a hand on the table as Garak moved closer
to him.

He placed the lid down and reached over to Julian's plate and
retrieved a strawberry and then reached back and brought the bowl of
cream closer. Then he dipped the strawberry in the cream and offered
the tasty morsel to Julian, all awhile letting his eyes take in the
dark beauty before him. He saw the hesitation, but recognized it was
only from nerves, for there was desire in the young man's eyes, and
when the strawberry touched his lips, they parted and took a small
nibble. Then Garak watched as Julian's tongue darted out and slowly
tasting, then licking the cream from the strawberry. He gasped only
slightly when he saw Julian close his eyes and continue to savor the
strawberry slowly, with his tongue and then after a couple of minutes,
devour it, to follow by licking the juice and bits of cream from
Garak's fingers. The sensation was almost overwhelming. //Oh Great
Gull! How I've dreamed of you doing such things as this. Oh, please,
let it be what Justin said is true, and that you love me as I love
you. Even if it were on a fraction as much as I love you, I would
still give you all that I have to offer.//  Garak's heart leaped in
his throat and word's he would never have used flew from his lips with
such ease. "Oh, my Jahkim, how I have longed to love you so."

Julian's eyes snapped open. To hear such loving endearment from him
was almost more than he could take. That this was real, that Garak DID
love him. Fear left him for there was no room in Julian's heart; as it
swelled with his own loving devotion that flew from his soul to his
lips. "Oh my love, I too have waited for such things, and have let
precious time pass with not so much as a word? I'm..."

Garak placed a gentle finger on Julian's soft firm lips. "Be not
sorry, Jahkim, for there is no telling that if this moment had come
any sooner, that it would be as well received as it is this night." To
confirm this point, he leaned in and replaced his finger on Julian's
lips with his own. The kiss was one of deep love, and the moment the
flesh touched, both mouths moved with independent passion. Garak
wrapped his arms around the slender body he so longed to hold and
found himself welcomed.

 Julian's arms were suddenly holding on to Elim tightly, never wanting
to let go. Their mouths worked on overload from the passion each other
fed into the kiss. Then Elim broke the kiss and sent his lips along
Julian's cheek to find his left ear and nibble it. This caused Julian
to gasp in delight and pull Garak's body to him even more. He then
heard Garak's voice whisper in his ear. "I want to make love to you."

"Oh yes, Elim, yes!" Julian reopened, and filled Garak's mouth once
again with his own to enforce his declaration. Before he knew it, he
was up in Garak's arms being carried to the bedroom. //Oh, yes Elim,
take me and love me! I'm yours and have been for so long. Heavens! If
I were a woman, I'd want you child right now. All else be damned, for
my heart belongs to you!// his heart vowed as his love flowed from his
eye to the man carrying him, feeling no division of his soul; Garak
was his mate, Justin his other half?that simple.

 He felt his body being gently laid on the bed, and Garak lay on top
of him. Then he felt cool air as the shirt was opened then where
Garak's lips touched him, a searing fire of pleasure burned. He gently
reached up and undid the facets on the long brown, gold trim tunic his
lover was wearing. Soon, Julian felt the burning throughout his chest,
when the two skins touched and the electricity of passion sparked
between them. Garak started whispering words of love in Cardassian,
//Oh thank heaven I learned the language along with Justin, // Julian
thought, as the words from Garak's lips burned his soul as the touch
of Garak's fingers burned his body with delight.

The two men would lose themselves in creating their new art of making
love with one another. Both were declaring their love for one another
in words and in actions, throughout the night. The fire that burned
that night was so bright and so strong, that both knew it was more
than simple sexual attraction, more than two lonely men filling their
time, it was as if two souls found each other and was now in the
process of forging themselves together. This is how Julian felt, when
he looked at his sleeping lover by his side, and knew in his heart
that Elim did too. Justin good as his word did not return letting the
lovers have their time. //Oh, my dear sweet loving Justin!// He sighed
and smiled basking in his joy. //Thank you! I now truly understand why
you chose to suffer so, just to have a taste of being in Elim's arms,
for now I know I would do the same. Oh, I pray to all that is good and
kind they will let things change for the better for you and your love,
for I do not think I could bare being so happy to know you were not.
WE both deserve this happiness and if we can not find it together than
at least in Garak's  arms..// Just then the computer chimed that it
was time to get up, for Dr. Bashir was due to report to work at 08:00
this morning.

Garak heard the chime and started to stir when he felt warm lips
caressing his own. Instinctively he kissed back knowing it would be
his Jahkim, (his beloved), that greeted him. He reached out and pulled
his love to him and the two men started to make love all over again,
till the computer chimed a half hour later reminding Julian that he
was on duty soon. "It is ok, Jahkim. If I understood our unspoken
words as well as the spoken, we now have a lifetime to make love with
each other, yes?" he smiled seductively.

"Yes!" Julian was so happy he didn't want this moment to end, even
knowing that Garak was right, then he felt strong arms around him and
was about to give in when he felt his body being gently pushed out of
bed. "You? creep!" he sputtered through his laughter from the floor
where Elim had deposited him.

"Jahkim, it would not bold well for you to be late to work, unless you
are prepared to give the reason as to why." Garak replied with a warm
smile, but he did want to know how Julian stood on this matter, and
was glad to see that Julian understood the question as well.

Julian climbed his way back on the bed and on top of Garak with a
strange and serious look in his eyes. "I meant what I said last night.
You are my love, my life, and my heart. Those who can not accept that
will either have to 'get over it' or face me." Then with a deep breath
he took Garak's hand and placed it on his heart, and then his own hand
on Elim's heart, and spoke swift and strong in Cardassian; [I will let
NOTHING or NO ONE come between us, for you are my heart, this I swear
by all that is!]

Garak's eyes widen in astonishment. Not only did his Julian know
Cardassian down to its inflections, he knew the Habation lover's
pledge. In ancient times, such pledge was considered almost the same
as a betrothal, though the only difference was clarification of its
purpose. Garak had to know just how did Julian mean his pledge, like a
true lover, or was there more, he had to know. "Jahkim, do you know of
the meanings behind the oath you just swore to me?" His heart was
racing; the thought of his Julian swearing his love to him, but the
anticipation of his answer had him holding his breath.

"Perhaps I'm not quite as naïve as many would like to think," he
grinned. "My love, I am aware, and though my heart would like to move
faster than the speed of thought, I would not rush that what I know
will come naturally, so for now it is an oath of a lover, but
someday?" he smiled his silent promise, and saw that Garak understood,
and all was well with the world. His eyes never left his lover's as he
spoke up, "computer send message to sick bay that I'm going to be a
few hours late to work. If there is an emergency they can contact me,
but only if there is an emergency. End message."   <Message sent.>
Came the computer, but Julian and Garak didn't hear it, for they were
lost in practicing their art of love.

****************


The next day, Julian was a mixture of emotions. He and his love had
found each other at last, thanks to his brother Justin, but today
Justin was leaving. He would probably never see him again, but they
could stay in touch and share their soul if not their company. To top
it all off, he was being summoned to Captain Sisko's office and not
able to help his brother pack for his trip. Julian knew full well the
reason he was being called before the man in charge, for Julian kept
delaying his arrival time for his shift, that before he knew it, his
shift was over. Then later that night, he avoided Sisko, knowing he
wouldn't find out until today. He spent one last night with his
brother in their room. They made some agreements, and Justin informed
Julian that he wouldn't tell his Garak the full truth about himself or
the room, but it was ok to share the room with Elim here, if he wanted
too. Julian said, that someday he would confess all to Elim, but not
today, or the next day, but soon. They spent the rest of the time,
holding each other in an intimate embrace, and let their kisses linger
and fill them, for they knew their love was different than that they
felt for others, theirs was special, unique, and strong. Julian's mind
came back to the present when he reached Ops. He saw Dax giving him a
teasing look, just like another kid would give if they saw one of
their friends being called into the principles office.

Sisko looked up to see he CMO enter his office. He was a bit surprised
not to see the man ready to grovel for forgiveness at his
transgression. Though he was relieved not to have to deal with the
over emotional reaction he had anticipated, he was unsure if this calm
was to his liking either. "Dr. Bashir, I do believe you know why you
are here? It has come to my attention that you did not report to duty
yesterday, and I for one would like to know what you have to say on
the matter." Sisko's strong voice came over his desk with the full
intent to intimidate, and once again was disappointed not to see his
CMO cringe like he would have not so many months ago. Then it occurred
to him, it has been that long since Julian Bashir acted like a timid
child around him and the thought intrigued him, but first he had to
deal with this infraction.

Julian stood at attention until Captain Sisko gestured him to relax
but not take a seat. Julian was indeed regretful for not showing up
for work, but since there was no emergency, he couldn't feel guilty.
It took a lot of control not to grin from ear to ear, when asked for
his thoughts on the matter. He cleared his throat and began, "I do
respectively apologize for my lack of professionalism and negligence
of my duty and will do everything in my power to see to it that it
doesn't happen again." Then Julian let out a slight breath, his
statement done.

Several months ago, that would have been enough for Ben Sisko, but for
some reason it wasn't today. He almost believed that what Julian just
said was more of a speech for his own benefit than a real apology.
Since nothing serious had occurred and that the doctor's presence was
not required he was not going to push the issue of why, but now, he
was. "That's not good enough mister. I want to know what you found
more important than attending to your duty, and I want to know now."
Demanded Sisko, never once raising his voice, for its deep tones was
usually enough to let others know he was serious.

Julian felt a blush fill his cheeks, but was not ashamed of what
happened with his love, but was still unsure how his commanding
officer was going to take it. //Oh well, if he wants to know, so be
it. Even he won't stop me.// But Julian did feel bad about missing his
shift, for that was who he was, and was sincere that he would do his
best not to do it again, but he was human after all, and didn't think
he was alone in the universe where new love aided in the missed shift
here and there.  "I'm-- I'm" he found it difficult to control his
voice, for he wanted to shout his thoughts, but needed to remain calm.

"I'm afraid that I'd allowed myself to be caught in the passion of new
love," he smiled. He couldn't help it, for his soul was brimming with
joy, and the wide-eyed look that Sisko just gave him for his condor,
was...priceless.

"A new love interest?"

"Well, not new, just finally consummated, that's all." His smile
widened, for he could see the puzzlement fill Sisko's eyes. //Yes sir,
you're going to have to ask.//

"Julian," he said fatherly, "it really isn't my business how you
conduct your personal life, however, if it conflicts with you duties?
I'm sure you see what I'm getting at?" Ben saw Julian shake his head
yes, that it was okay, but the nagging in his stomach wanted the
answer to the unasked question, who is the new love? //It's none of
your business, Ben.// He though to himself. //But, he's never acted
this way before. Oh, yes, he's been like a puppy in heat, but
something is different, and perhaps?// it was enough for him to act
on, and so he did. "Julian, out of concern, may I inquire the name of
this young lady that has made you forget yourself?"

Julian felt the heat in his face again and his heart race just
thinking about Garak. //Close enough, I'll give and I can't wait to
see the expression on you face, but ? slowly, I'll give.// "Umm, it's
a he, not a she." He said softly. He was well rewarded by Sisko's
stunned look on his face and couldn't help but grin some more. "I
really promise, sir, that I won't let myself get that caught up with
Garak again. It, just being our first night together, surely sir, you
can understand?" The sincerity of his regret of lack of attention to
his duty was mixed with a touch of mischief at tormenting his Captain
with the news.


****************

Julian was on his way down to the shuttle bay, smiling all the way.
The image of Sisko stuttering and mumbling and making no sense then
dismissing him was truly priceless He knew he would have to deal with
this, but today he didn't care. He took pride in standing up for his
love, and now? the though of Justin leaving, brought the smile down.
He burst into a run so not one more seconds would be lost between
them. He arrived to see Mile placing the last of the shipment,
approved by Sisko, to help the Rebels in their cause. This was a fine
line for Sisko to be taking, but he for one was not going to make
waves. He saw Justin making the final check on his new, duplicate
shuttle, except it looked brand new compared to the old beat up one
that was long gone.

"Can I give you a hand?"

Justin looked over his shoulder to see his brother and smiled.
"Unfortunately, I did everything either the night before or this
morning. But thank you." He grinned to see the joy in his brother's
face, knowing that he succeeded in giving back for so much he had
received.

"Did you find that package I left for you?"

"Yep, but why can't I open it now?" asked Justin.

This time it was Julian who grinned wide. "It's a surprise and beside,
I think it will be quite clear when you open it, why later is better
than now. Do you have everything?"

"I have everything that I'm capable of taking with me," he said,
leaving the undertone stand between them. This moment was going to be
hard for both of them, but it was what had to be done, and they both
knew it. "Everything IS set," Justin said, letting his words sink into

Julian that their final agreed arrangements were in place.

"Ah, the boisterous, beautiful, Bashir brothers!" called Garak as he
walked into the shuttle bay carrying a dozen packages. "These are for
you from Quark, and myself and some of the ladies that will be forever
ruined by you absence" he teased. Justin took them gracefully and
found what room he could to store them. The shuttle was stuffed, as it
was now, he barely could fit in it himself. He looked out of the hatch
just in time to see Miles bump his head in reaction to the terms of
endearment Garak has used upon entering. He laughed hard. //I wonder
just how much alike this Mile and the other one is? If they are, I may
actually go out of my way to patch things up with him and try to be
his friend.// Just then he heard the chief's com badge peep announcing
that it was time. Justin moved out of the shuttle to say his final
good-byes.

Garak gave him a hug and said he would wait for his 'Jahkim', Julian's
new name, by the exit. O'Brien gave him the once over, for the fifth
time, then shook hands on a friendship made and watch the chief exit,
but not without giving Garak a look of total puzzlement. It was now
time to say goodbye to Julian, and he didn't want to do it and saw
that Julian didn't want to say goodbye either. But?

"You have been the best thing that has ever happened to me, Dr. Julian
Bashir, and don't you forget that."

"As you have been for me. Would you make me a couple of promises?"

"If I can." Justin waited wondering what his brother would request of
him; if it were at all physically possible he would do it.

"First, promise me that you will be all that you can be, including
happy, okay?"

"I will do what I can to fulfill you wishes and mine in this matter."
He replied teasingly, attempting to break the tension and sadness in
the air. "What else?"

Julian lowered his voice, still aware that Garak was near by. "Promise
me that you won't take an innocent life, unless... unless you really
have no choice." His request was earnest, but he wanted his brother to
understand that he did realize what type of world Justin was about to
return to.

Justin met his brother's eyes with a seriousness of devotion. "I
swear, I will find every possible option to prevent that from ever
happening."

So much more wanted to be spoken, but Dax called over the com to let
them know that Captain Sisko would not be too pleased if Justin missed
this 'window' of opportunity. Everything else would have to wait for
the recorded messages they would still be able to share. The brothers
embraced for what they believed would be the last time and it took the
strength of will, given over by Garak, who returned to the room and
pulled them gently apart, and led Julian out of the shuttle bay so it
could lock and Justin could prepare for departure.

"He's going to be okay, Jahkim," Garak said, seeing the tears in his
love's eyes.

"I know, it's just that I'm going to miss him." Then Julian hugged his

Cardassian and planted a small kiss on his lips. "I've got to get to
Ops; I'll see you tonight for dinner if not sooner." Another kiss and
he dashed down the hall to the turbo lift.

In Ops, the DS9 crew was making ready the necessary configurations to
open and then seal the 'door' between the universes. Julian arrived
just as Dax announced all was set and they could begin. Kira contacted
Justin to inform him that all was ready and wished him luck as did all
the other members of Ops. Dax moved to finalize the last bit of
information into a second panel and smiled sympathetically at Julian.
"It's for the best." She said.

"I know," came his quiet reply. When all eyes were on the tiny 
shuttle, heading toward the wormhole, no one noticed Julian lift his 
hand ever so slightly and switch one of the last numbers in Dax's 
calculations and entered it in the computer with a single touch. By 
the time anyone looked back at Julian the deed was long done and he 
moved to stand by Mile and watch the glorious spiral of light and 
color that always occurred when the gate to the prophets opened. //I 
beg you, see him safely home, and watch over him.// Julian prayed, 
whether to the prophets or the universe, it did not matter, only that 
his prayer would be heard and carried out. In a moment and a flash of 
brilliance, Captain Justin, Julian Bashir was gone.


<The End? not by a long shot? >

There are parallel sequels done! 

<Changes> the events of what happens to Captain Julian Justin Bashir 
when he returns to his world, now physically enhanced and trained in 
the Obsidian Order basics techniques, but will things play out as the 
two men had hoped or will turn of events lead to total disaster. 

 <I Don't think so?> the events of what happens between Julian and 
Garak, their now love revealed, when Cardassia abducts Garak with full 

intent of seeing him executed for treason so as to set an example. 
Julian is beside himself for Star Fleet won't get involved and forbids 

him to get involved either, will love conquer all?