Disclaimer: You know the drill, Paramount owns all of the characters I am gonna write about, give or take one or two.

Feedback: Well, this is my very first attempt at any kind of writing, so please be kind. I'll accept any criticism or praise, just send your comments to bum1@erols.com

Note: This story takes place two years after the episode Children of Time.  Also, I made Kira a Colonel, because hey, she deserves it!  I'm not sure if that is the rank that comes after a Major, but it sounded good so...=0).
***************************************************


Family Ties

   " Our Love will stand tall as the trees, our love will spread wide as the seas. Our love will shine bright in the night, like the stars above. And we'll always be together. Our love, will stand tall as the trees, our love will be for the whole world to see. Our love will change people's wrongs to right. And we'll never doubt, cause we'll always have each other"

                                     Mary J Blige

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

Prologue

   The old man sat in the transport accompanied by his small son.  He ruffled the boys hair affectionately, and not for the first time pondered on what he would say to his daughter.  The young boy looked at his father and smiled.  A look of anticipation in his bright eyes.  This would be his first trip off his home planet of Bajor and he was excited.

   " Dad, tell me again, what is she like?"  The boy asked again for the thousandth time.

   " Well Tola, she is smart, beautiful, brave, and a very important person on the station.  I have no doubt that you'll like her."  The old man replied whole heartedly.  He was also looking forward to meeting the woman that he had never known, never been able to hold in his arms to comfort her from nightmares, but things were gonna change he knew, in only a matter of days.
   
   The transport docked to the station and he saw the other people get up to get their belongings.  He picked up his bag and took the boy by the hand, " C'mon Tola, it is time to see your sister."

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

Part 1

Kira Nerys awoke that morning with a fluttering in her heart and stomach.  She was nervous, very nervous.  She slid out of bed and went directly to the bathroom.  *Relax Nerys, it is only your wedding day.  You love this man, and want to spend the rest of your life with him.* she repeated over and over again in her mind.  Just then she heard a stirring and looked back to the bed where her lover was slowly taking his humanoid form.  She walked back to the bedroom and kissed him lightly on the cheek.

   " Nervous Odo?"  she inquired softly.  The changeling reached up and pulled her to sit down next to him.

   " Nervous?  Why should I be nervous?  I am about to marry the most beautiful woman on the station, why should I be nervous?"  Teased Odo in return.  Nerys smiled and kissed him again, this time fully on the lips.  Odo returned her gesture with such passion that it took her breath away.  Odo suddenly pulled away from her and looked seriously into her eyes.

   " Nerys, if you are having second thoughts, we can postpone this.  I've waited seven years for this a few more won't matter."  Odo whispered gently.

   " Prophets no Odo.  I love you with all my heart and want to be joined to you for life, but I am scared that something will go wrong.  It is just my paranoid side.  Seven years, has it really been that long?"  Kira laughed.

   In fact it had been seven years.  However, for the first five, Nerys didn't even know that Odo had feelings for her.  Then on one mission, she had learned the truth.  At first she was stunned and confused.  Then she was angry for having been kept in the dark.  Then she realised that she had feelings for Odo too.  Their relationship started out slow, with a few dinners here and there, but gradually, it blossomed into more than Odo, or Nerys, for that matter could ever hope for.  Then two months ago, Odo had asked Nerys to marry him, and she gladly accepted.  The others had been so happy for them.  Even though neither had any family to break the good news to, they felt the reaction from their friends more than made up for their relations, or lack thereof.  Kira was broken out of her thoughts by Odo's grunt.

   " What are you grunting for?"  Kira smiled.

" Well, it wouldn't have been so many years if a certain someone hadn't been blind as a Tiberian bat!"

   Kira laughed and hit him playfully on the arm.  She then took his face in her hands and looked into his wonderful, electric, ice-blue eyes.  " Odo, you make me so happy.  I can't imagine how I went so long without you." Kira said through tears.

   " Now, now, don't cry.  This is a happy day, I'll not have you shedding any tears," Odo retorted as he began to kiss away her salty tears, and made a trail down her neck, " This is the happiest day of my life, and I promise you Nerys, you'll never have to live another day alone again as long as you live.  Now, I have some last minute plans to check on, and you have to start getting ready, or you'll miss our appointment in the temple."
   And with that, Odo formed himself his uniform and left their quarters, but not before turning to look at his future bride with a reassuring gaze, " I'll see you in three hours my love."  Kira sighed.  She had to be the luckiest woman in the universe.


   Benjamin Sisko and Jadzia Dax were in Quarks helping prepare for the reception, when they saw a small old man and young boy walk into the bar.  Ben eyed the old man suspiciously.  He had a shock of red hair as did the boy.  He was about to approach them when he saw Quark gesture the pair over.

   " Ben, you haven't listened to a word that I've been saying have you?" an all too familiar voice stated emphatically.  Sisko smiled embarrassed and looked at his younger officer.

   " I'm sorry old man, what were you saying?"

   " I was saying that I'm glad this is finally taking place!  I've been waiting for this for a long time."

   " That makes two of us old man.  I'm glad Odo and Kira have found happiness, they deserve it."  Ben smiled wistfully.

   " Just out of curiosity what were you thinking of?"  Dax inquired.

   Sisko gestured to the pair, now talking to Quark.  " There is something familiar about that man, don't you think?  He reminds me of someone, I just can't think of who."

   Dax looked over at the pair and was dissecting the man with her gaze.  He was old, that was easily distinguishable.  He had bright auburn hair which surprised Dax because this man was no spring chicken.  He had dark eyes and a stooped posture, he was a very small man.  Then Dax's gaze swivelled to the man's companion, a boy of five or six.  He looked exactly like his father, with the same red hair and dark eyes.  Then it clicked in her mind who the pair reminded her of.

   " Ben, don't they look like a certain fiery first officer who is going to be married today?"  Dax teased lightly. " They must be relatives, coming for the ceremony."

   " I don't think so old man.  I distinctly remember Nerys saying she had no living relatives, distant or close.  These two look like they could be her father and son, I think this is a coincidence."  Ben shrugged as he returned to his work of blowing up balloons.


   Quark noticed the pair as soon as they walked in.  He waved them over to the bar, and began studying the two.  They wore very tattered clothes, and the boy looked far to small and skinny.  The bag the man carried looked far to heavy and Quark became curious as to what was inside.

   " Hello, my name is Jara Nolem, and this is my son Tola. We were wondering if you had any information on the wedding that is to take place today."  The man inquired politely enough.

   " Why does it interest you?" asked the barkeep suspiciously.  Then he looked into the man's eyes and something in his mind clicked.  " Wait a minute, are you a relative of the Colonel?  Yes you must be you look just alike.  Well, this is going to be quite a surprise for the major. She didn't think any of her relatives were living, let alone they would be coming to her wedding.  I'll tell you what, the reception is to be held here, I'll save you a space at the First Minister's table, and then you can talk to her. The wedding is scheduled for thirteen hundred hours today at the temple."
   The man bowed in appreciation and left the bar talking to his son.  He didn't know what had possessed him to do a favour for this stranger.  *I must be getting soft* thought the Ferengi as he bustled off for last minute preparations.


   Nerys jumped at the sound of her door chime.  She had just gotten out of the shower and was in her robe.  

   " Come in."  was all she said as she was greeted with a smile from Dax.

   " Hi, I just came to help you get ready, I know I am a little early, but I thought that it would be nice to be able not to rush for a change." she laughed as she walked into the bedroom.

   " Thank you for all your help, and I don't mean, just with the wedding, I mean in everything."  Kira smiled as she hugged her friend.  Both the women simultaneously began crying, and then laughing, and then crying again.  They carried on this way for at least half an hour before Dax stood up and began to search for the joining dress.

   " Aha, here it is."  Dax said as she pulled out the dress from the closet.  It was a beautiful flowing green dress, very simple, yet very elegant.  Dax let out a low whistle as she thought again how beautiful her friend would look in the dress that Garak had personally made from scratch.  " Well, lets do your hair and make-up first." Dax said as she led her friend to the vanity table.  
   Kira had let her hair grown a bit longer in the past year, it fell just above her jawline, much as it had when she first arrived.  Dax combed it back and started putting her auburn tresses in curlers.  When she was finished, she began putting on some light make-up.  Nerys seemed fidgety and finally Dax stopped what she was doing and looked at her friend.

   " Nerys, is something wrong?  You haven't been able to sit still since I got here."

   " I don't know.  I mean, I love Odo with all my heart, and I know he feels the same about me, but ever since I woke up this morning, I've had this feeling that something is going to go wrong.  I don't know, it's probably nothing, but I can't stop thinking about it."  Kira answered truthfully.

   " Nerys, this is just a case of cold feet.  Nothing is going to go wrong, Ben and I have seen to that, it is going to be beautiful, don't worry!"  Dax reassured her friend.

   Nerys nodded and looked at herself in the mirror."  I think we should finish, the ceremony is in twenty minutes, and I still have curlers in my hair."  Kira chuckled.

   The two women finally finished with their primping and Nerys changed into her dress.  As she emerged, Dax smiled and tears began to fall.  Her friend looked beautiful.  The green complimented her hair, which was now set in bouncy curls.  The dress flowed to the ground and swished as she walked.  The dress fit perfectly, it accentuated all the right areas, without looking cheap.  * I am going to have to compliment Garak on his work.* Dax thought to herself.

   " Jadzia, don't you dare start crying.  I am gonna start soon, and we don't have time for any last minute touch-ups." Nerys said, her voice already choking up.  Jadzia wiped her eyes and the two left the room arm in arm.


   " Garak, this is the most uncomfortable piece of clothing I've ever had to wear." Odo complained in his usual gruff tone he used with the plain simple tailor.

   " As I've stated before constable, you could have very well formed one of these joining suits yourself, considering your powers."  Garak retorted a bit smugly.

   " And I've told you that I wanted something authentic, something I could keep in remembrance."  The constable replied hotly.

   " Alright, alright.  There is nothing I can do about the itching, it is Kafka wool you know.  You really should calm down Constable, all this stress can't be good for you."

   Just then Quark entered dressed in another one of his loud Ferengi suits, one that Odo had never seen.

   " Quark, I'm touched, you dressed up all for me."  Odo teased.

   " Don't flatter yourself constable, I just had to look my best for my customers, your marriage had nothing to do with it, so you can wipe that smug grin off your face."  Quark shot back good-naturedly.  " Now I suggest you get to the temple or you'll miss your own joining." 

   The men walked out of the shop onto the promenade and saw that it was crowded with people wanting to see the ceremony of two of the most important people on the station.  Some of the people nodded in encouragement, while others looked on in disgust.  He and Kira had received several threats from people opposing the joining, but he wasn't going to let anything spoil this day.

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

Part 2

   As Sisko stepped into the side room of the temple he was greeted by his beautiful First Officer.  He smiled appreciatively and wondered if Odo knew how lucky he was, and then he chuckled to himself, of course he did, this was Odo he was thinking of.

   " Ben, thank Prophets, I didn't think you would ever get here. "  Kira breathed a sigh of relief.  Since Kira had no father, she had asked Sisko to give her away.  Ben had gladly accepted.  He had come to care for Kira in a paternal way.  He knew how hard it had been for Kira to ask him.  She had been stuttering before she finally came out and asked him.  He had been speechless, and his eyes flooded with tears before he accepted.  Now he was grateful he had.  There had been a time when he hadn't trust this woman standing before him, but after all their years together, he trusted her explicitly.  He knew she felt the same way.

   " Well Nerys, it's time.  Are you ready?"  Sisko inquired as he gently took his first officer by her elbow.  She merely nodded an affirmative and the two set out down the aisle.

   Sisko recognised many faces sitting in the temple, but many he didn't.  He saw Shakaar and noted that he looked sad.  He didn't know the circumstances of the separation, but he knew that it had been mutual, why then was the man looking so dismal?  Sisko pondered this as his eyes swept over the rest of the crowd.  He saw some Vedeks from Bariel's, Kira's former lover, order.  He also recognised Mullibok, an old Bajoran man that Nerys had befriended during her first year at this post.  He hear a slight sniffling and glanced at over at the source.  Jadzia Dax sat beside Julian and the entire O'Brien clan, shamelessly crying.  But it was the sight of the old Bajoran man and child that disturbed him the most.  He had an odd feeling that they were up to no good, and would have had them removed, but he didn't want to ruin Nerys' wedding so he simply pushed these thoughts aside.  
   When they finally reached the front of the temple, he saw Odo watching the pair approach through tear-filled eyes.  He knew that Odo had been waiting for Nerys for a long time.  He gently handed Kira's arm to Odo and watched as the ceremony proceeded, noticing that all eyes in the temple were moist, including his own.

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

Part 3

   Odo was chatting amicably with Jadzia Dax when he heard his bride grunt in surprise.  He looked in the direction of his wife's gaze and saw Lwaxana Troi enter the bar dressed in a tight, bright purple dress.  She was trailed by her ever-watchful servant Mr. Homm.  Odo actually liked the man.  Although many found the imposing man's silence uncomfortable, Odo came to value it.

   " Oh, come now Colonel, don't be so surprised, I couldn't stay away from my dear friend's wedding."  Lwaxana said brightly as she approached the table.

   " I thought you were on some mission or something.  Also, I would greatly appreciate it if you would stay out of my mind, now if you'll excuse me, I have something to attend to."  And with that, Nerys left the table and approached the First Minister, who was looking downcast, and was definitely drunk.

   " Odo, I do wish you would try to calm her down, she is a bit excitable isn't she?"  Lwaxana turned to Odo unperturbed by the harsh words.

   " I'm sorry for her outburst, I will talk to her, now ambassador, sit down and tell me about little Ian."  Odo gestured to the Ambassador.  He meant every word of what he just said.  He'd come to greatly respect and admire the woman and didn't like the way Nerys had upbraided his friend.


   " Edon, is something wrong?"  Nerys asked tentatively as she approached her old friend.  As he turned around she was surprised at the pain and hurt etched into every line of his handsome face.

   " Of course not.  What could be wrong?  The best thing that ever happened to me just got married to another man, why should something be wrong."  Shakaar replied bitterly.  The venom in his words surprised her and she stepped back in surprise.

   " Edon, what are you talking about?  Do I need to get you back to your quarters?  You are really drunk, what have you been drinking?"  Nerys demanded as she snatched his glass away and sniffed its contents.  " This is Dakhurian Whiskey, you know what this does to you."  Admonished Kira angrily.
   Suddenly Shakaar seized both her hands and put them to his lips.  " Forgive me Nerys, I am a little drunk, but I meant what I said.  I guess I had to lose you to know what you meant to me.  I guess I should retire to my room before I do something embarrassing."  With that Shakaar staggered off to his quarters leaving behind a very confused Nerys.
   She looked back to Odo and saw his icy gaze fixed on her and the retreating Minister.  He caught her eye and turned back to the Ambassador, and then left the table heading out the door.  *Prophets, he thinks there is something going on between me and Edon*  Nerys thought to herself.  She rapidly followed Odo out of the door and finally found him staring out of their favourite window in a remote section of the station, the very place he had proposed to her.

   " Odo is there something wrong?"  Nerys asked as she noticed his body tense and stiffen

   " If you don't mind _Colonel_ I'd like to be alone, I'm sure you have more pressing engagements, say with a certain Bajoran male."  Odo replied rancidly.

   Nerys blanched at his use of her title and started to turn away, but she wasn't going to give up this fight.  " Odo damn you!!!  You don't even know what happened, and here you are accusing me!!  You don't trust me do you?? Well, I want to know why you married me.  A marriage is built on trust and you have none in me.  I will not live like this."  Kira yelled through tears, her chest heaving with fury.

   Odo turned around and saw Nerys, _his_ Nerys crying as she sank to the floor putting her face in her hands.  The thought of causing her pain was too much.  He rushed over to her and gathered her in his arms.  Nerys clung to his neck and was sobbing uncontrollably.

   " I do trust you, I love you, and I'm sorry.  You are right, I am wrong.  But every time I see you with Shakaar, I get jealous.  I know you two are friends but, he makes me uncomfortable."  Odo whispered in her hair.

   Nerys broke out of his embrace and looked in his eyes, " Now you know how I feel about Ambassador Troi."  Kira laughed tiredly.  Odo bent down and kissed Nerys passionately on the lips.

   " I suggest we go back to our party before people start wondering where we are."  Odo said as he helped Kira to her feet.


   Jara saw the couple enter the bar and knew that he must make his move before she left on her honeymoon.  He grabbed Tola by the hand and moved to intercept the couple.  He saw Nerys pick up a glass of champagne as she passed a table.

   " Kira Nerys, I must speak with you immediately."  Jara's soft voice pleaded.  Kira turned to face him, a look of wonderment apparent on her expressive face.  But when she looked into those dark eyes, her eyes, realisation clicked, and she knew that feeling in her gut this morning had been justifiable.  She dropped the glass, and suddenly the world became dark as memories of her childhood flooded back.

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

Part 4

   " Nerys, come here, I have someone I want you to meet."  Nerys followed her mother's beckoning hand and sat on her lap.  Nerys meanwhile gazed at the handsome man in front of her.  He was young, a lot younger than her mother, and he had long red hair, like hers.  The man kneeled down and peered curiously at the small child.

   " Oh prophets Lonera, she is beautiful, a little small perhaps, but she is beautiful."  the strange man said as he tried to pick up the girl.  However, Nerys resisted.  She didn't like the man.  She didn't like the way her mother held hands with him, or the way they gazed at each other.  Despite her resistance the man still managed to hold the squirming child and shower kisses on her face.

   " Nerys, stop it child.  This is Jara Nolem, a special friend, be nice."  Her mother commanded in a defeated tone.  Recently, her mother had become very weak as a result of the constant food-deprivation.  She had three sons and a daughter to look after, and every morsel went to them, except when Nerys refused to eat because of the hungriness in her mother's eyes.

   " I want Daddy!"  the child whimpered.  The long-haired man seemed to blanche at the remark, and he set the child down in her Mother's care.

   " Well, I am leaving tomorrow. I want you and our daughter to come."  The man said desperately.

   " Nolem, I can't leave this place.  I have a husband and three sons, and I won't abandon them."  the woman stated simply.

   " You weren't thinking of your family four years ago, were you?"  The man exclaimed bitterly.  Her Mother let out a strangled cry as his remark hit home.  Then she began to weep uncontrollably.  

   " Go away!! You make my Mommy cry!"  The child screamed with all her strength.  Her mother stiffened as she heard a scuffle at the door.

   " Lonera, Nerys, are you all right? I heard a scream and I..."  Her father abruptly stopped his inquiries as he saw the other man.  Nerys looked into her mother's face and saw guilt and extreme sadness.  She looked in her father's and saw anger.

   " I should have known you'd be here.  Lonera has been extremely happy lately."  Her father thundered sarcastically.

   " Jolar, please, he just wanted to see his daughter before he left again."  Her mother pleaded.  Then it hit Nerys like a brick.  They were talking about her!  Her father wasn't her father.  Suddenly memories of Cardassian remarks about her mother and Nerys came to her.  The looks of the other Bajorans when Kira was with her mother.  Her brother's and father's blonde hair and blue eyes.  Kira looked at Jara and knew that what they were saying was true.  This man with her hair and eyes was her father, and he wanted to take her away.

   " Well, he's seen her and he can leave now.  I won't have this filth in my home any longer."  Kira's father? spat.  Before Nerys knew what was happening, Jolar grabbed Nolem by the arm and threw him out of their small hut.  Kira saw Nolem's retreating back and was glad he was gone.  She thought that was the last she would see of this strange man, but it wasn't, no she would meet up with him sixteen years later.
************************************************************

Part 5

   " Nerys, how do you feel?"  Kira awoke from her troubling memories in the infirmary at the sound of her husband's concerned voice.

   " Odo, where is he?"  Odo put an arm around Kira's back and helped her in a sitting position.  Nerys looked into her husband's eyes and saw the worry.  " I'm fine, I just need to know where he is."

   " Sisko took him to one of the holding cells to question him.  Don't worry, you won't have to see him again if you don't want to, but I need to know who he is."

   " His name is Jara Nolem, and he's my father."

   " But I thought you said your father died."  Odo prompted

   " He did, but Jara is my biological father.  Odo can you take me to our quarters? I'd feel a lot more comfortable telling this story there."

   " Of course.  Julian told me that when you awoke, it would be alright as long as you don't stress yourself to badly."  With that Odo scooped his wife in his arms and walked back to their quarters to hear his wife's story.


   Sisko paced the length of the cell before coming to stop in front of the suspicious old man.  Julian and Dax had taken the young boy for some food while he personally escorted the man to security.  He already learned the man's name was Jara Nolem and he was here to see his daughter, Kira Nerys.

   " I'm sorry.  I have a hard time believing your story.  Nerys told me her father was dead."  Sisko said

   " And he is, at least the man she knew as her father.  I am her biological father.  You see Captain, Her mother Lonera and I were involved for quite a while.  She was a married woman with three sons, but she was very unhappy.  I was part of a resistance cell that used to go to the camps to recruit more members.  That is how I originally met her.  We had an affair, but her husband found out and I knew it was time to leave.  I came back three years later and that's when I found out about Nerys.  I wanted to take them with me, but her mother couldn't leave her family."  Jara explained calmly  " I saw Nerys again about twelve years ago, after her so-called father died, but she wanted nothing to do with me."

   " Well, the only question is, why are you here?  Evidently, the Colonel doesn't want you here, so why did you come here, and on her wedding day no less."  Sisko stated firmly

   " That is simple Captain.  I am dying.  I have a hereditary disease that affects the muscular system called Livan Syndrome.  I will be dead in about two months and I have a small child, Tola.  His mother died giving birth and I have no other living relatives, and I wanted Nerys to take care of her brother.  I know it's asking a lot, but Nerys has no other living relatives besides Tola and I, even if she won't acknowledge me, I was hoping she would accept her brother."

   Sisko whistled loudly and released the filed around the cell.  He believed this man was telling the truth, and he wanted to help him.  He seemed sincere and Sisko felt a stab of sympathy for Jara's small son.

   " Well, I'll try and help you any way I can, but I don't know if it will be enough."  Sisko sighed.  An indeed, he didn't know if it would be enough.


   " My, he does have an appetite."  Julian laughed affectionately.

   " I'll say, this is his third helping of Hasparat, and he doesn't seem to be slowing down."  Dax replied.

   The young boy only grunted, and the two Officers smiled.  When the boy was finally finished Julian decided it was time to play doctor.

   " So Tola, how old are you?"  Julian asked.

   " I just turned five a week ago."  Tola replied proudly

   " Oh, you are growing up!!  And can you remember when you had your last meal?"  The boy seemed to be deep in thought when he replied that it had been three days, if they didn't count the jumja stick that he had today.  The doctor looked concern and was about to contact Sisko when he appeared.

   " Sir, I must speak to you, this boy is five, and extremely under-weight. Also, he says his last meal was three days ago, this is unacceptable..."  The doctor was stopped as Sisko held up his hand in silence.

   " That will be all doctor.  I will consult with you another time.  Right now, I am taking this boy back to his father so he can go to sleep.  There will be a briefing tomorrow at 0600 hours, one which Kira will not be informed of."  And with that Sisko led the small boy along the Promenade, leaving two very confused officers behind.

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

Part 6

   Nerys was already undressed and in her night-gown when Odo appeared at the bedroom door with some hot tea.  He saw that she had been crying and suddenly he had the urge to go to the man who was causing this pain and wipe him out of existence.  However, his wife needed him, and he walked slowly into the room setting the cup on the table and sitting on the bed beside his wife pulling her in an embrace.  She had already told him of her memories of the man when she was three, but she still had another part of the story to tell and he knew this was causing the most pain.

   " Nerys, if you don't want to continue, I understand."

   " No, This is something I have to do."   Kira replied, her eyes already clouding over in memory


   Nerys finished placing the last of the dirt over her father's lifeless body when she heard a rustle in the bushes behind her.  She turned to look face a man she never thought she'd see again.

   " What are you doing here you worthless old man!"  Kira spat.

   " Please, you have to help me.  I need to get out of this region, it's not safe for me."  the man pleaded in futility.

   " If you don't get out of here, I'll kill you!  Leave now!"

   " Please, I am begging you."  But the man saw it was futile and scurried behind the bushes.  Before he ran off down the hill he turned and said, " Nerys, that was my mother's name.  Just remember you still have a father, a real father, who loves you despite your refusal to help.  I always have loved you and always will."


   " Odo, remember how I told you my father died fighting the Cardassians?"  When Odo nodded she went on.  " Well there had been a surge in Cardassian raids on small farming villages, so we set up operatives in the regions, and the rest of us stayed in the caves.  My father was one of those operatives.  We were working with another Resistance cell and Jara was also sent as an operative.  I hadn't spoken to him, but I know he and my father had exchanged a few words, to say the least!"
   " Well, my father died because he was pleading with the Cardassians not to burn down their crops, it was their livelihood.  However, a fight soon broke out and the entire village joined in, except Jara.  I learned my father began fighting two Cardassians because they were beating on Jara.  My father came to help, and as soon as Jara got the chance, he ran, leaving my father to be shot by those bastards."

   Kira could hardly talk now as the tears welled up in her large eyes.  Odo acutely felt her pain and tried to comfort her, but it was no use.  He handed her the tea he prepared and she gulped it gratefully before continuing.

   " He came to me as I was burying my father and asked me to help him escape!  I wouldn't do it, and he left.  I later learned that he had sneaked off-world and was living on a farming colony.  He left his world and his people because he was a coward, and I can't and won't forgive him for that!"  Suddenly all the rage she had been holding in her since her father's death poured out.  She cried for hours until fully drained, she crumpled in Odo's arms.  He gently laid her under the covers and slipped beside her.  She moaned in her sleep and he turned to embrace her and saw the pain in her beautiful face.  *He will pay for this* Odo vowed before falling off to sleep himself.

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

Part 7

   " Alright people, I didn't call you here for no reason."  Sisko said as he gazed at his bleary-eyed officers.  He knew that they'd been out celebrating.  After Kira fainted, Odo insisted that the party continue.

   " As you know, Kira had some difficulties after she came face to face with a man known as Jara Nolem."  The others nodded in acknowledgement.  "  This man is Kira's father>"  Sisko finished with out preamble.

   " Kira's father? Her Father is dead, she told me so herself."  O'Brien blurted out.

   " Not exactly chief."  For the first time, the brooding figure of the First Minister spoke up.  Sisko had specifically called Shakaar to the meeting.  As a friend of Kira, he would undoubtedly have some advice on how to approach Kira.  " Jara is her biological father."  Shakaar then proceeded to relate the circumstances involving Kira's "father's" death.  No one spoke for a while, then Worf broke the silence.

   " With all due respect sir, these are tragic circumstances, but I don't see the need for a meeting. Surely..."  Worf broke off in midsentence as he saw Sisko's hand shoot up in a gesture of silence.

   " Patience Mr. Worf.  As you know, Jara brought with him a young boy, this is Kira's brother.  Jara is dying and he wants her to care for the boy after his death.  This is why I called the meeting.  I need to know what you think she'll do."

   There was a stunned silence as the news sunk in.  He looked one by one at his crewmates' faces and waited for their responses.

   " Sir, I know she hates this man, but surely she wouldn't let her own flesh and blood go to an orphanage."  O'Brien blurted out.

   " I agree with the Chief, she may have some animosity towards this man, but this boy is her brother."  Dax concurred.

   The general sentiment of the crew was the same.  However, it was Shakaar who brought up the subject of Jara Nolem.  He turned to Bashir and looked into the younger man's eyes.

   " You say this man is dying?  Are you at liberty to tell us the circumstances?"

   Bashir cleared his throat and went into a detailed explanation.  " Jara is suffering from a genetic disease called Livan Syndrome.  It affects the muscular system. It is a progressive disease that only affects minor muscles such as fingers and toes, but eventually it gets to the heart.  The only thing I can't figure out is why he waited so long to get treatment.  This disease can be cured if it is treated early enough.  His medical records clearly state that he knew about the disease three years ago.  The only conclusion I can draw is he wanted to die."

   Shakaar shook his head in disbelief.  This action was mirrored by the rest of the senior staff.  " Well, the death of her father nearly destroyed her.  I don't know how she'll react when she learns of Jara's condition.  I suggest you all keep a close eye on Nerys.  She'll pretend she is fine, but I know her, and no matter how much she hates this man, he is her father and she will be distraught."  Shakaar finally managed.

   "  How much longer does Jara have to live?"  Dax asked Julian.

   " I'd give him two weeks, and even that's being generous.  I suggest we tell Nerys immediately so the news will have time to sink in."  Bashir responded gloomily.

   " Agreed.  I'll drop by their quarters now and tell her.  Dismissed."  Sisko ordered as he prepared himself to tell his first officer about her father.



   Nerys awoke to the comforting form of Odo at her back.  He had reverted to his gelatinous state and was curved to the contours of her body.  Odo sensed Nerys' movement and formed his usual humanoid body and not-yet-complete face.  She turned around to face him and traced her fingers along his jawline and lips.  He gently kissed her fingertips and pulled her to his chest.

   " How are you doing love?"  He asked gently, concern and worry creeping into his voice.

   " I'm better now that I'm in your arms."  she murmured as she snuggled closer to her husband.

   " Are you sure?  You had a very fitful sleep."

   Nerys glanced around the room and noticed that all the pillows and most of the blankets were on the floor.  She chuckled and was about to respond when Odo's combadge beeped.  He sighed and reached over to the night table to grab it.

   " Odo here."

   " Constable, I am coming over to discuss something of importance.  I'll be there in five minutes.  Sisko out."

   " I'll give you three guesses as to what this important matter is."  Nerys said as her face darkened.  She slipped out of bed and put her robe on.  She ran some fingers through her hair and sat heavily on a chair waiting for Odo to form his uniform.  When he did so, they walked out into the living room waiting for Sisko.  The door com beeped two minutes later.

  " Come."  Odo called.

   Sisko stepped in the room with a resigned look on his face.  He took a deep breathe and relayed the events that had happened when the couple returned to their quarters last night, complete with all the details concerning Jara's condition and his wish.  He looked at Kira and saw that her face was devoid of any emotion.  There was a cold look in her eyes that chilled him to his very core.

   " Well, I have some work in Ops, until further notice, you are both relieved of duty.  I think you have some things to discuss."  With that, Sisko left the couple, glad that the worst of his part was complete. Now all he had to do was wait.



   " Nerys, say something."  Odo prodded.  He looked at his wife and concern was evident on his face.  This was not like Kira.  *I wish she would scream or cry, or even hit me, anything other than this silence.*  Odo thought to himself.

   " I'm hungry."  Was all she said as she went to the replicator and ordered some Bajoran cuisine.  She sat down at the table and began to eat.

   " Is that all you can say?  You just learned you have a brother!  Your father..."  But he was cut off in midsentence by Kira's scream.

   " That man is not my father!  Don't you ever call him my father."  Kira proceeded to swipe all the contents on the table to the floor as she ran into their bedroom, locking the door behind her.  Odo stood dumbfounded as he looked at the breakfast spread on the floor.  There had been something in her voice that stopped him dead in his tracks.  He had never heard her scream like that.  He knew she needed to be alone so he quelled his instinct to ooze through the cracks in the door.  He picked up the contents on the floor and proceeded out of their quarters.  He was going to see the man who started all this, he was going to see Jara Nolem.



   Nerys awoke several hours later and wiped the tears that had still been streaming down her cheeks.  She had been dreaming about her father, again.  She got up and began to make the bed.  When she was finished, she sat on the edge.  *Prophets, I wonder what Odo thought of that.*  Kira mused silently to her self.  She knew her husband was probably confused.  *I need to apologize*.  She knew that Odo had deserved what she did, but she was so angry, and still was.  However, all her hours alone had proved productive.  She had made up her mind about the young boy.  Now all she needed to do was talk to Odo and to her...to Jara.

   " Computer, location of Constable Odo."

   " Constable Odo is on level fourteen, in Jara Nolem's quarters."

   " Well, at least I can tell them when they're together."  Nerys sighed as she headed for the shower.



   Odo waited pensively as he waited for the door to Jara's quarters to open.  When they finally did, it was all he could do not to give a startled gasp.  He wasn't prepared for the man to look like Kira.  He hadn't really seen Jara at the party because after Nerys had fainted his attention was turned solely upon her.  The man had the same red hair and the same eyes that Odo always lost himself in.

   " Come in, come in.  I have been expecting you."  Jara said as he gestured for Odo to enter.  Odo looked around the sparse quarters that had been provided for Jara for the duration of his stay.  He saw the little boy, Tola playing on the floor with a small wooden figurine.  When he saw Odo, the young boy leapt up and ran to him.

   " Hi, I am Tola."  Odo chuckled as he reflected how forthright the small boy was, just like his older sister.

   " Hello, I am Constable Odo, your uh sister's husband." 

   " I know!  I was at the wedding.  She was crying, didn't she want to marry you?"  the boy asked in all innocence.

   " Tola, why don't you go into your room, the Constable and I have some things to discuss."  Reluctantly Tola went to the door of his room and disappeared.

   " So Mr. Odo, I take it Nerys knows about the situation?"

   " Yes, and she didn't take it too well.  I just wanted to meet you, to see why she hates you so much."  As soon as he said it, he regretted it.  A pained expression came over the man's face, and he sat down on a chair.  " I'm sorry, I shouldn't have said that."

   " No, you're just telling the truth.  Well, I guess I should ask you since you'll have to live with her decision.  Would you be willing to take my son in?"

   There was an uncomfortable silence as Odo pondered the question.  Even though he'd only known the boy for a few minutes, he already had a strong affection for him.  Maybe it was his resemblance to his sister, but Odo felt it was more.   

   " Yes, I would."  Odo said shortly.  " But first, I need to know why you want to die?"  Confusion crossed the old man's face as he wondered what Odo was talking about, then it dawned on him.

   " I see you have accessed my medical files.  Well, it's very simple.  I lived in a farming community.  I am no farmer.  I knew I couldn't return to Bajor because I don't deserve it.  I left my world in cowardice, and I don't have the right to return simply because the oppressors are gone.  However, I wanted my son to know this world.  The world of his ancestors.  When I learned I had this disease, I thought the Prophets were sending me a gift.  Here was a chance for my son to know his world, and his sister.  I know Nerys hates me, and I'm not saying she's wrong, but I just want her to give Tola a chance.  He is a very bright young man who deserves a better life than an orphan on some obscure farming colony."  the man sighed fighting back tears.

   Suddenly, Odo had a keen respect for this man who was willing to make the ultimate sacrifice for his son.  This was not the man that Odo had been expecting.  He almost liked the man.

   " I want you to know that I'll do everything in my power to help Tola.  I am very fond of him already, and I'm sure Nerys will accept the boy, it is her brother after-all."  Odo said gently.  Just then the door com sounded and Odo was surprised to hear his wife's voice.

   " Come in, come in."  Jara called as he realised who was at the door.  Nerys entered and walked stiffly to her husband's side.  She grabbed his hand for support and took a deep breath before telling Jara her answer.

   " I have thought about it, and I have decided that I will take Tola in.  He doesn't deserve to suffer because he has some old fool for a father.  I understand you have a week or two to live, and I know that you'll want to spend some time with Tola.  Just contact me when you want me to pick him up."  With that, Nerys turned on her heels, and left the room, letting go of Odo's hand.

   When she left, Odo glanced at Jara.  He seemed pained, but at the same time, he looked happy.  He knew this was because Kira would accept the care of the boy.  Odo didn't know what to say and was slightly embarrassed at Kira's calm clinical detachment from the situation.  She hadn't even asked to meet the boy, and this worried Odo.

   " Jara, if you don't mind, I would like to invite Tola over for dinner tonight.  I expect he'll want to see the place where he'll be living and meet his sister."  Jara nodded and Odo left the room, in search of his wife.

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

Part 8

   Nerys wandered aimlessly and didn't know where she was heading until she strode up to the door of the First Minister.  She nodded at two of Odo's deputies who were guarding the door.  Shakaar opened the door and glanced worriedly down into his friend's face.  He pulled her into a hug and sat her down on the couch.

   " Well Edon, I guess you know about the uh, situation."

" Of course I do Nerys.  I am sorry."

   " Sorry for what?  Sorry that this coward is my father?  Sorry that he is dying?  Sorry that he wants me to take care of his child?  What exactly are you sorry for?"  Kira seethed.  " Oh, I'm sorry Edon, I didn't mean to...I know that you are my friend and only trying to help."

   " Nerys, it's alright.  So, what are you going to do, about the boy?"

   " It looks as if my home is going to have a new addition.  I've decided to take care of the boy, Tola.  Prophets I don't know what I'm getting myself into, but somehow, it seemed right, he is my...brother."

   " Well, I'm glad that you decided to take him in.  I know that you hate your...this man, but Tola shouldn't suffer, and I'm glad you realised that."

   Nerys looked into her handsome friend's face and saw that he was genuinely pleased.  She smiled at him as she rose to the door.

" Thank you Edon, for being here when I needed you.  I'll never forget it."  Nerys whispered as she hugged her friend.

   " No problem Nerys, I'll always be here for you."  Shakaar whispered as Kira strode out of the door.



   When Nerys returned to her quarters, she saw Odo in one of the vacant rooms in their home.  She chuckled in amusement as she saw her husband taking measurements.

   " I take it this will be Tola's room."  Nerys said amused.  Odo smiled at her as he crossed the room and embraced her.

   " If you have no objections."

   " No, this room will be perfect.  We'll have to get him a bed, and some toys and maybe an alter and..."  She stopped as her husband let out a rolling laugh.  She began to laugh as well

   " Nerys, I'm glad you are excited about this.  I hope you don't mind, but I've invited Tola over for dinner tonight at 1800 hours."

   " No, I don't mind.  It's about time I met my brother."

   Odo knew how hard it had been for her to acknowledge that.  He hugged her even closer and kissed the top of her head.  She gazed into his eyes and a smile crept over her face.

   " You know Odo, with all the confusion last night, we didn't exactly have time for a traditional wedding night."  Confusion crept over Odo's face.

   " What are you talking about?"  Odo asked bemused.

   " Oh, it's much better if I show you husband."  Kira said archly as she led her Odo to their bedroom.

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

Part 9

   Nerys was frantic as she searched for something to wear.  Odo stood in the doorway slightly amused at his wife's nervousness.  He had just put the finishing touches on the dinner that was soon to follow.

   " Honey, I don't understand what you are so nervous about.  He is a five year old boy, I doubt he'll notice what you are wearing."  Nerys glanced up at her husband's teasing smile and laughed.

   " I guess you're right."  She finally settled on loose fitting flower dress that Odo had given her for her last birthday.  She looked beautiful in it.  The dress brought out the colour of her hair and eyes.  It was Odo's favourite.

   " Well, it's time for me to go pick him up, I'll be back in about five minutes."  Odo said as he walked out of the door, leaving a very nervous Kira Nerys.



   When the door to Jara's quarters slid open, he was greeted by Tola.  The boy was cleaned up and wore some thin pants and a shirt.  He smiled as he saw Odo and hugged his legs.

   " C'mon, lets go, I want to see my rissa."  Odo knew that Rissa was a Bajoran endearment, much like the human sister.
Odo grabbed the boy's hand as they headed toward Odo's quarters.



   As soon as they entered they were met by a smiling Nerys.  She kneeled down to face Tola.

   " Hello little one, I'm your sister."  Nerys was surprised when the boy leapt into her arms and began sobbing softly.  Nerys, taken aback by the boy's reaction, began crying as well.  The two sat for a long time holding each other and crying.  They probably would have stayed like that, had it not been for Odo's polite interruption.

   " Hey you two, I didn't cook a great dinner so you two could cry all night."  Both Nerys and Tola laughed and broke apart.  However, they continued to hold hands as they approached the dinner table.  Tola inhaled deeply and smiled.

   The whole night was a success.  Jara was right.  Tola was a very bright young man indeed.  He knew virtually all about Bajor, Nerys, Odo, the station, and the federation.  Both Nerys and Odo were surprised at the extent of Tola's knowledge.  
   After dinner, Nerys showed Tola where he would be living.  The young man's eyes lit up in delight.  He ran around the room and back to Nerys giving her a bear hug.  After about two hours of hugging and crying, Odo took Tola back to his quarters.

" Thank you for the dinner y'linn."  The boy whispered as he ran to his father.  Odo nodded to the old man and left the room before either could see the tears in Odo's eyes.  Y'linn was the Bajoran term for older brother, Odo finally felt his life was complete.  He had a family.

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

Part 10

   A week and a half later, Nerys was notified by Julian that Jara Nolem was dead due to heart failure.  She was aware that several feelings were running through her body.  She was relieved that this man was dead, but at the same time, she was sad.  Not for herself, at least that's what she told herself.  For Tola.  Jara had been a good father to Tola.  Odo had explained his talk to Jara with his wife and she understood his reasons for refusing medical treatment.
   His last wishes were to be buried on the farming colony.  Kira felt it wasn't right and pulled some strings and had him buried on Bajor.  Not for herself of course, or him, but for Tola.
   When Kira had picked up Tola from the infirmary, she saw that he was doing his best not to cry in front of the medical staff that had been trying to console him.  The minute he saw Nerys though, he burst into tears and ran to her.  Nerys picked him up and carried him back to their quarters and on to his room.  Since the last time he had been there, the room was changed drastically.  There was a bed, two chairs, one an antique Bajoran rocking chair which she sat down on, two bureaux and a bin filled with toys.
   She sat rocking him for two hours before he finally fell asleep.  She tucked him into bed, and left the room.
   Now two weeks later, she sat in her room, watching the holo-message that Jara had left her.  The old man smiled tiredly before he began his speech.

   " Nerys, my little t'sija, I know that I haven't been the best father, or the best Bajoran, but I want you to know that I always have and always will love you.   The thought of you was the only thing that kept me going for all those years of killing.  And then when I met you again, I was so happy!  I know that what I did to Kira... your father was wrong, and I have hated myself for it ever since.  I also know that my actions were those of a coward, and I don't expect you to forgive me.  I just want to let you know that I am very proud of you, and I know that your mother and...father would be too.  Please take care of Tola, he really loves you, and I know that you love him, your husband told me so.  As for Odo, keep that one Nerys.  He's a good man and he loves you with all his heart.  I know that he'll take care of you and Tola.  Well, I have already taken enough of your time, goodbye Nerys, t'sija, I love you."

   Kira stared through tear-filled eyes as her father's image disappeared from the screen.  She began wiping her eyes when she heard a little voice behind her.

   " C'mon rissa, you promised to show me how to play springball."  the voice called impatiently.

   " Alright, alright, I'm coming."  With that, Nerys took her brother by the hand and left her, their, quarters.

                          The end.


   I hope you liked it, I know it's not the best, but I was thinking of making this the first story of a saga about Kira and her little brother, and of course Odo.  Please let me know what you think, you can reach me at bum1@erols.com