The woman stood quietly beside the transparent coffin of her husband. The coffin stood in the middle of a small cave. A place where no one came, but she. She leaned over and caressed the coffin, the cold metal pressing against her cheek. "I will always love you, my darling," she whispered. "I promise I will find you again. Our dreams won't die with you." She kissed the coffin, turned and walked back towards the entrance of her husband's secret resting place, now knowing what she had to do.

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

Deep Space 13

After spending several months on patrol and investigation, the USS Alliance was orbiting the DS13 station, allowing her crew to take a well-deserved furlough.

Since they would be in orbit for seven days, Captain Forrester decided to take this time to test all the auxiliary craft on the Alliance. Even though each was a new craft and had been tested before being loaded onto the Alliance, he wasn't taking any chances before going back out again to patrol the Neutral Zone.

DS13 was the Federation's premiere station for sports tournaments along with arts and entertainment events. On this particular day as on most days, there was a full schedule of tournaments, plays, dances and many other activities which would keep anyone entertained for 24 hours straight if so desired.

The Alliance was busily transporting people down as this was the main access to the moon based station which was located mostly underground except for a large domed area which contained the arboretum, science experiments, and places to walk, run or just meditate.

Mira and Simon stood in transporter room one waiting their turn to beam down. The transporter could handle 12 people simultaneously if necessary, but usually six would be transported at one time. Mira and Simon were numbers seven and eight in line.

"So, what do you want to do first?" asked Simon.

"I want to visit some old friends in the Infirmary, then a bit of shopping, then a ballet, then..."

"Whoa! Hold it!" smiled Simon. "Will there be any time for me in there?"

"Of course dear," Mira said squeezing her husband's arm. "We're going to the ballet together and other places as well."

"Ballet?" frowned Simon, not particularly looking forward to sitting through that.

"Oh, you'll love it!" Mira's eyes sparkled with excitement. "This is an anti-gravity ballet. I've heard it's wonderful!"

"Hmmm. Ok, I'll go with you to the ballet if you will go with me to the Parisses Squares' Tournament."

"How many games is that?"

"It's the finals. About two games, I think."

"Two. Ok, that's not too bad."

"Maybe four," he said shyly.

"Four! No way! Unless we go to the holographic art exhibit too."

"Art?"

Mira arched her eyebrow at him.

"Next!" came Audra McKay's voice, alerting them to take their places on the transporter platform.

Mira and Simon stepped up onto the platform along with four others. "All right," said Simon, " deal." Mira smiled as she and her husband dematerialized, wrapped in the shimmering glow of the transporter beam.

They arrived in the main transporter room of DS13, which consisted of 50 transporter pads on a circular platform. Six transporter operators were situated around the large platform and all were busy seeing that all transportations went smoothly.

Along the circular wall were doorways with lighted signs, in alternating languages, posted above each directing visitors to various spots in the complex.

After stepping off the platform, Mira turned to Simon. "Why don't we meet here in four hours. Then we can transport back to our quarters and change for dinner. After that we can catch the ballet and still have time for your Parisses Squares finals, which I believe don't begin until 2400 hours."

"You had all this planned in advanced, didn't you?"

"Of course, dear. Never leave anything to chance," she said with a smile, stepping down off the platform.

"See you here in four hours," Simon said, giving his wife a kiss and then heading off to find the Science Department, while Mira went in search of the Infirmary.

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

The woman checked the coordinates already programmed into the small ship. She knew she would need to be far enough out into space in order for there not to be any residual interference with any bases or ships.

"Let's see, if my intuition is correct, they should be on Deep Space 13 at this time. That is where we would have been if . . . " She shook her head, clearing her thoughts. " I will really have to push it in order to arrive there before they leave. I suspect their ship will not be there for more than one week. Of course, if I'm wrong, they could be anywhere in the Universe! Or nowhere. I can't worry about that now. I have to do this. I owe it to him--to us."

The small ship made it's way out of the orbit of Xanor II and into the far reaches of space, heading for Deep Space 13.

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

Mira and Simon spent the last four hours getting caught up with old friends, shopping, and checking out DS13. Now they were sitting down in one of the classier restaurants on DS13 called 'The Hanging Gardens.'

'The Hanging Gardens' was a large round restaurant with red tables and red velvet chairs with gold trim. Each table contained a lighted candle in a round, red holder. All along the four-meter high ceiling were baskets of hanging plants, some with exotic flowers flowing over the baskets and some with just luscious green flora.

The walls were a holographic representation of a rain forest complete with waterfalls, birds in flight and lakes. One forgot they were underground on a barren moon while they were in 'The Hanging Gardens.'

Mira was dressed in a floor length, loosely flowing emerald green satin gown, gathered at the left shoulder with a silver and diamond sun clasp, and at the waist with a thin silver sash which reached to the hem of the dress. She carried a matching satin shawl that was now draped over the back of her red velvet chair. Her shoes where matching slippers, each with a small diamond sun button on the top.

Simon was dressed in a black suit with a white silk shirt and black bowtie. He leaned across the candle lit table taking Mira's hand in his. "Have I told you how beautiful you look tonight?" he asked, kissing her fingers.

Mira smiled, her eyes glowing, "Yes, but I never get tired of hearing it."

"Your hair looks wonderful too," he said.

"I wore it up like this at our wedding," she said, wondering if he remembered.

"I remember."

Mira gazed around the restaurant, taking in all the scenery. "I love this place," she said. "It's so peaceful and romantic." The soft sounds of falling rain wafted through the restaurant over the soft hum of muted conversations.

A waiter appeared at their table, dressed in a white tuxedo. "Would you like something to drink," he asked.

"Yes, please. I would like a Bajoran Spring Wine," said Mira.

"I'll have a Saurian Brandy," said Simon.

"What? No beer," asked Mira.

"I like something different once in awhile," he said. "Except you, that is."

"Good answer," she smiled.

"Very well, " said their waiter as he turned to get their drinks.

After their drinks were served, they each ordered Plomeek Soup. Mira had Tuwalli Pie with Delavian Chocolate as a dessert. Simon had the Augergine Stew and I'danian Spice Pudding.

After they finished their meal, Simon slowly walked with his arm around Mira, toward the Rotunda where the Anti-grav Ballet was to be performed.

"This is so relaxing," he said, "being here with you and no enemy to fight."

"Yes, isn't is? I feel like all is right with the Universe tonight." She took his arm and squeezed it, snuggling closer to him as they continued their walk. "And I'm sure you will love the ballet," she said.

"Probably just as much as you will enjoy the Squares' Tournament," he answered back. They both laughed, knowing they would enjoy just being in each other's company and not having to worry about anything tonight.

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

The woman transported down to DS13 wearing a floor length dark blue hooded cloak and visor which covered most of her face. With so many aliens arriving, she knew she would not stand out or be noticed by anyone in particular.

Clutching her cloak tighter to herself, she stepped off the platform, making her way to one of the many wall comm units. "Computer, location of Simon McRaney."

"Commander Simon McRaney is currently in the Rotunda. Do you wish communications?"

"An audible sigh escaped her lips. So, he WAS here! Good. "Commander McRaney?" she spoke softly to herself. "He must still be in Starfleet. No communications, computer. Directions to the Rotunda."

As the computer directed her to the Rotunda, the woman patted the pocket on her cloak, making sure it was still there. Then she made her way amongst the crowd, heading toward the Rotunda and Simon McRaney.

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

DS13

The large Rotunda's capacity was 5000. While the station itself kept a relatively small crew, the facilities could accommodate 30,000 visitors, though not overnight.

All around the central stage area were covered benches that reached 50 levels. This Rotunda held many sports tournaments as well as plays, ballets and other forms of entertainment and could quickly be converted to accommodate most any event. It was nearly filled to capacity as more patrons continued to enter the facility.

"I didn't realize so many people loved ballet," remarked Simon, as he and Mira entered the Rotunda to find their seats.

"Are you kidding?" she said. "This ballet company is the finest in the Galaxy. They tour all over. We're lucky they just happened to be here when we were!"

"Hmmm," mumbled Simon, who was already thinking of the Parisses Squares' tournament set to begin an hour after the ballet. "Lucky us," he quipped. Mira gave him a small frown and he quickly smiled back. I'm not getting out of this one, he thought, so I might as well enjoy it.

They took their seats and watched as the seats in the Rotunda filled quickly. Many non-humans---Vulcans, Bajorans, Andorians, Klingons and even a few Ferengi were in attendance.

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

The woman sat across the isle, five levels up from Simon and Mira. She spotted them when they first arrived and had not taken her eyes off them. She's with him, she thought and watched as he put his arm around her and whispered something into her ear. She was hoping he would be alone, but no matter. She watched as Mira smiled when Simon took her hand and kissed it. He looked so handsome in his suit and tie, the woman thought as her eyes filled with tears. She fought them back.

"Not here, not now!" she whispered to herself. I can still do this--I must do this! I will not let our dreams die Simon! Since the couple did not seem to be going anywhere, the woman relaxed somewhat and settled back to watch the ballet.

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

After everyone had entered and the doors to the Rotunda were closed, the ballet began. The rumblings of the crowd slowly died down as the lights dimmed into a darkness so complete it was impossible to see the person sitting next to you.

Mira reached for Simon's hand and squeezed it. Funny, but his being out of her sight, even though next to her, was uncomfortable somehow. It was as if by not being in her sight, he would suddenly disappear. Silly, she thought. Relax and enjoy the show, she silently chided herself.

When the crowd fell totally silent, a low rumble of drums was heard. As the drums suddenly grew in decibels, they were joined by flutes, creating a hypnotizing effect. Soft blue light and smoke filled the bottom of the stage area as the music continued to swell.

Suddenly several small figures began to rise from the smoke and were joined by the sound of tinkling chimes.

As the smoke died out, twelve men and women wearing differently colored skintight body suits with large butterfly wings appeared. Their wings were multicolored and sparkling in the lights and so diaphanous you could see right through them.

The butterflies began to rise in the air, slowly moving their wings, simulating flight. They moved around in a circle in unison, half went upwards while the other half flew downwards. They began turning and flying around and around, up and down, flying, dancing to the music.

"This is wonderful" whispered Mira. "It's like they're real!"

As the music started to slowly fade out, all the butterflies made their way to the bottom and disappeared from view. When the last of the butterflies disappeared so did the music and light. Again, the Rotunda was pitched into total darkness. A round of applause echoed around the facility as everyone began to wonder if this was all there was to it.

It was only a few seconds before another light appeared at the bottom of the stage--a golden light. Harp music began to play as another golden light spotlighted a huge dark blue and gold pair of closed butterfly wings, the light dancing off them.

"That is one huge butterfly!" exclaimed Simon. "It's at least five times as large as the other ones."

The lights went out again and slowly the giant butterfly, whose wings measured at least five meters tall and four meters wide, began to move. The butterfly's wings were outlined in sparkling gold lights. After flying around for a few moments, the person moving the wings appeared outlined in twinkling blue lights.

The woman slowly rose straight up from the floor, fanning her wings out as if to catch the non-existent wind. She stopped in the middle of the air and began to spin around and around, the lights twinkling and sparkling as if catching phaser beams.

She danced in the air--spinning, up and down, around and around--a ballet on the wind. The drums started again as the other smaller butterflies joined the larger one and continued their dance. These too were outlined in lights--each a different color. There were blues, reds, silvers, greens and purple butterflies. The music rose--harps, flutes, and drums creating a cacophony of sound that made you forget all else except the dancing butterflies.

"I don't see how they can do that without slamming into each other," remarked Simon, fascinated by the spectacle.

"You're thinking Parisses Squares, darling," answered Mira, laughing.

The dancing continued until the music began to fade. As it did, the smaller butterflies flew to the ground, alighting softly on their feet while the larger one still flew over their heads.

Blue light and smoke began filling the bottom of the stage. All the butterflies disappeared as they had appeared--in smoke. A few moments later, the large butterfly stopped dancing and slowly began her descent to the bottom of the stage and the sound of one harp. She slowly and gracefully moved her wings as she glided to the bottom. Her wings closed while golden smoke surrounded her like a cocoon, causing her to disappear as the other butterflies had. All light and music suddenly ceased.

The crowd wondered again, if this was the end of the ballet. As the house lights were turned back on, they knew it was and erupted into thunderous applause, each patron rising to their feet.

The whole ballet had taken an hour and a half, although no one noticed more than the passage of a few minutes so enthralling was the show.

"Well?" asked Mira as she and Simon made their way among the crowd to the exit. "Did you enjoy it?"

"I didn't think I would, but yes, I did, very much. You were right," he said smiling.

"Then you're glad you came?"

"Yes. Very much so."

"Good. Then I am sure you will enjoy the art show almost as much," Mira said with a grin.

"Probably so," replied Simon, although he doubted it. A ballet at least had some action in it, while an art show...

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

The woman never took her eyes off of Mira and Simon as she let them get ahead of her and then followed them outside the Rotunda. As she past them she heard them speaking of returning to the Alliance to change clothes. She knew what she would do now. Just a few more minutes and they could leave here, forever.

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

Mira had just finished changing into blue jeans and a light blue Starfleet Academy tee shirt when she received a page from the DS13 computer to report to the Infirmary.

Simon was in blue jeans as well and a short sleeved gray shirt and sneakers. "You go on honey," he said, "I'll meet you at the main entrance to the Rotunda. Don't go in without me or else I'll never find you in that crowd."

"Okay," said Mira. "I shouldn't be too long. I have no idea why they should need me, but you never know about these things." Mira finished dressing by snapping on her comm badge. All Starfleet Personnel were required to wear or carry their communicators with them at all times. "If I don't get there in time for the first game, you go on in without me. I don't want you to miss it."

"I would hate to miss it. It's Mars verses Earth. If Earth gets beat, that's it," said Simon.

"Does that mean you won't want to watch the other games if Earth loses," asked Mira hopefully. She was thinking of taking in a play that was occurring simultaneously as the Parisses Squares Tournament.

"Heck no! That would still leave Coridan and Vulcan in the race. You're not getting out that easily my dear," he said with a smile.

Mira grimaced. "Okay, okay. I'll try my best not to miss the first game. If I see that I can't make it, I'll let you know. See you in a little bit," she said as she kissed him.

"Fair enough," he said.

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

The woman stood near the wall in the Main Transporter Room of DS13 . . . waiting. There she is. He should be following in a few minutes. The woman slowly circled the platform. With all the people transporting in and out, no one paid her any attention. Several minutes later, Simon transported down. Ah yes! There he is! She watched him leave the area and followed him, stopping at one of the comm panels on the wall of the corridor.

"Computer, I request a direct link to Commander Simon McRaney. This is Dr. Montgomery."

"Stand by," came the computer's calm voice. Link established. Proceed with communication."

"Mira?" came Simon's puzzled voice. "You just left. What's wrong?"

She had to take a deep breath. It had been so long since she had actually spoken to him. It was very disconcerting. She cleared her throat. "Simon? Nothing's wrong. I just need you to come to the Main Transporter Room. I want you to meet a friend of mine who is about to leave."

"What? The tournament's just about to begin. Why aren't you using your comm badge anyway?"

"Ah, it's not working properly. This will only take a few minutes. Please. This is important. She's preparing to leave right now."

"All right. I'll be right there. Out."

The woman quickly walked back to the transporter room and waited for him to return. When she saw him come into the room, she ran up to him. "Hello," she said, pulling back her hood and removing her visor.

"Mira? What's all this about? Why are you dressed like that?" he asked, confused. Simon stood in front of a woman who looked and sounded like his wife, yet he knew something was not quite right.

She took him by the arm and pressed a small hypo--which she removed from her inside cloak pocket--into his skin. He barely felt the pressure.

"You like it? My friend Nancy gave it to me. Come. I want you to meet her in her ship."

Feeling the effects of the sedative, Simon willingly went along with the woman.

"Mira, I'm feeling strange," he said.

"You'll be fine, sweetheart. Just come along with me." She led him onto the platform and both were transported into her ship.

"Mira?" began Simon as he started to feel dizzy.

Miranda quickly pressed another hypo into his arm and helped him into the small bed located to the back of her ship. "Sleep, my darling," she said. "We'll be home soon." She bent down and kissed Simon on his lips. He lost consciousness just a few seconds later.

Dr. Miranda Montgomery McRaney, Doctor and Scientist, guided her ship back out into space, back to her facility on Xanor II- and back to her own dimension.

---------------------------

Mira walked into the DS13 Infirmary, expecting to find Dr. Kempton in his office. He wasn't there. She made her way back out into the main patient care area and stopped a passing nurse. "Excuse me, but where can I find Dr. Kempton?"

"He's off duty now. I'm not sure where he is. Would you like me to page him?"

"No. That won't be necessary. But do you know why I was paged to come here? I'm Dr. Mira Montgomery."

"No Doctor, I'm sorry I don't. Perhaps one of the other doctors can help you. They're in the conference lounge, located right down the hall."

"Thank you," said Mira, making her way toward the conference room.

Mira came out from the conference room more puzzled than ever. Neither one of the two doctors there knew why she had been summoned to the Infirmary. There were apparently no emergencies around as everything was quiet.

"Incoming message for Dr. Montgomery," came her comm badge.

"Go ahead," said Mira.

"Comm badge malfunctioning. Met a friend and will miss tournament. You go ahead without me. Will be very late. Don't wait up. Love, Simon. End of message," came the computer's voice.

"Now that's strange," said Mira to herself. "Must be SOME kind of friend for him to miss that tournament. Well, nothing to do for the next two hours but take in that play I wanted to see," she said, still talking to herself as she left the Infirmary heading toward the Auditorium where a new play by a Vulcan playwright would soon begin.

"Hope I'm not too late," said Mira as she hurried away, looking forward to the play.

----------------------

Mira woke at her usual hour of 0500. She slowly opened her eyes and reached over to touch her husband, but instead felt an empty bed. "Simon?" she called, "You up already?" Receiving no answer, she raised up on her elbows and looked around the empty room. Slowly she got out of bed, slipping her feet into her slippers and pulling on her robe.

"Computer, location of Commander Simon McRaney," she called as she made her way to the replicator for her morning cup of coffee. She thought Simon must have risen early and be in the science lab or holodeck.

"Commander Simon McRaney is not aboard the Alliance," came the computer's cool voice.

"Computer, what time did Cmdr. McRaney get into his quarters last night?"

"Commander McRaney has not returned to his quarters since leaving at 2347 hours yesterday."

The cup of coffee stopped short of reaching Mira's lips. "Don't panic Mira," she said to herself, "that probably just means Simon was too drunk to make it back home," she hoped, sitting down at the diningroom table with her coffee.

Ok, now what? She asked herself. "Computer, link with DS13 computer and locate Commander Simon McRaney." Maybe he was still in a bar she reasoned.

"Working. Commander Simon McRaney is not aboard Deep Space 13".

"Did he transport off the station?"

"Affirmative."

"When?"

"Commander McRaney transported off Deep Space 13 at 2359 hours yesterday."

"What was his destination?"

"Unknown."

"Did he leave a message for Dr. Montgomery?"

"Negative."

"Damn! Now I'm worried!" Mira left her nearly full cup of coffee on the table and quickly changed into her work uniform--a black jumpsuit with gray shoulders. She hit her comm badge. "Dr. Montgomery to Lt. Cmdr. Jesse Sanchez".

After a few moments of silence, Mira heard the deep tones of the Australian Chief of Security. "Sanchez here, Doctor. How can I help you?"

"Jesse, I have a problem. Can you come to my quarters immediately?"

"I'm on my way. Sanchez out."

Mira was pacing the floor, hands on hips when Jesse arrived.

"Jesse, Simon has disappeared," she began. "I was supposed to go to the Parisses' Squares Tournament last night at 2400, but was paged to the DS13 Infirmary. When I got there, no one knew of such a page."

"Go on," prompted Jesse.

Mira took another breath and continued. "Then I received a computer message supposedly from Simon saying that he had met a friend and would not be going to the tournament after all. He said for me not to wait up as he expected he would be late getting back to our quarters."

"Supposedly?"

"Yes. It came through the DS13 computer. The message stated that Simon's comm badge was malfuntioning."

"Anything else?" Jesse was taking notes on a padd while Mira talked.

"Yes. The message said for me to go on to the tournament without him. I should have known something was up then, but it just didn't register at the time."

"Why was that?"

"Because Simon knew I didn't want to see the tournament in the first place, but would rather go see a play being held at the same time."

"Did you go to the play?"

"Yes I did. Then I came here and went to sleep. When I woke up this morning and noticed Simon wasn't here, I ordered the computer to locate him and it responded saying that he wasn't on board the Alliance. Then I made a link to the DS13 computer and it informed me that he had transported out at 2359 last night. That is only a few minutes after I left him! I should have known! I should have known!" Mira berated herself, running her hands through her hair, pacing back and forth.

"Mira, calm down. There might be nothing to this at all. Simon is probably somewhere on DS13 or on this ship. It's possible that the computers may have malfunctioned," said Jesse, trying to look for any possible alternative even though he didn't believe what he was saying.

"Jesse, don't give me that crap! I'm not some poor woman who lost her husband! I am a Starfleet Commander and I know when something is wrong."

"Sorry, Mira. I was just trying--"

Mira stopped pacing. "I'm sorry Jesse. I know you're just trying to help, but damn it! I blame myself for not seeing this earlier!"

"Did you try contacting him on your comm badge," Jesse asked, "just on the off chance that--"

"Yes, yes several times, just before you got here. The computer stated he was not on the station or the Alliance. But if his badge was malfunctioning, that's what I would expect it to report. But then the computer reported him to have transported off DS13 at 2359 last night. Now, if his badge was broken--"

"The computer would not have known where he was," finished Jesse.

"Exactly. That's why I know something is wrong. That and the other message I received."

"The one which paged you to the Infirmary?"

"Right."

"Someone sent that message to you. I'm sure I can find out who sent it. Give me a couple of hours to check things out. I'll also send out teams to search DS13 and the Alliance, just in case."

"Okay. Now, what can I do?" Mira asked, not being one who was good at waiting and doing nothing.

"If Simon has been kidnapped, maybe you and he met that person at some time in your past. Someone could be holding a grudge against him or you or both. I want you to record all you can remember about everyone you've met on your trips with Simon. I'll need to check his personal and professional records as well."

"His personal logs?" Mira knew that Simon was a very private person and would not care for anyone to see his personal logs. Not unless it was absolutely necessary.

"Um, yes, I'm afraid so Mira. But I can assure you that I and no one else will see those logs."

"Thanks Jesse. Simon is a very private person and I haven't even taken a peek at his personal logs, even though I have the clearance to do so."

"I understand. I'll check in with you again when I discover something. In the meantime, stay calm and don't worry."

"Right. My husband is missing and I'm not to worry," said Mira, throwing her arms up in frustration.

"I'll inform you as soon as I find out something, Mira. For now, sit tight."

Mira walked Jesse to the door, then went and retrieved a padd from her work station and began recording all she could remember about everyone she and Simon had met since the first day they began seeing each other."

-----------------------------

It had been two hours since Jesse began his investigation and Mira had discovered nothing that could explain Simon's disappearance. No one she or he had met could possibly be responsible.

She jumped to her feet as her door chimed. "Enter!" she shouted. Jesse Sanchez entered, padd in hand.

"Well?" asked Mira. "What did you find out?"

"Sit down, Mira," he began, moving her back to her sofa.

Mira knew that whenever someone said 'sit down' it was bad news. "What is it Jesse?" she asked as she sat down.

The security chief of DS13 and I went over every piece of evidence we could find. At 2253 Simon received a message from someone directing him to go to the main transporter room where he transported out to a ship."

"Who sent the message?"

"Well, that's strange, because according to voice analysis . . . you did."

"What?" Mira shouted. "I never sent him any such message!"

"Yes, I know, but someone sent Simon that message."

"He was kidnapped, wasn't he Jesse?" asked Mira, fear entering her heart. Up until that time she could think maybe he had gone off with a friend or was still in a bar on DS13, but those hopes now vanished.

"I'm afraid it looks that way. But I'll check out that bogus message someone sent you. I'll have more intense scans run on the recording. Don't worry Mira. I'll get to the bottom of this. We'll find Simon." Jesse patted Mira on the shoulder as he stood to leave.

"One more thing. Besides the crew of the Alliance, did Simon know anyone on DS13? Or was he expecting anyone?"

Mira thought for a moment." Just those crew members who transferred here from then Endeavour. Why?"

"We believe he transported off the station with someone . . . a woman." Jesse hesitated to mention this to Mira, because he knew how it would sound--like Simon had run off with another woman. But Jesse knew this was not the case. He knew Mira and Simon well and knew Simon would never leave her--not of his own free will.

"A woman? That doesn't make any sense." Mira got up and followed Jesse to the door. He turned before stepping outside.

"Mira, if this had been anyone else but Simon, well . . . "

"I know Jesse. It would look like he ran off with that woman." Mira chuckled. "It's funny, Jesse, but just now I'm kind of hoping that is just what he did."

Jesse gave her a puzzled look.

"I mean if he did, then he would be safe, now wouldn't he?"

"I'll find him Mira, I promise," said Jesse as he stepped through the doorway.

"I hope I can keep that promise," he said to himself as he walked away.

-------------------------------

Mira turned and headed toward the replicator. "Bajoran Green Tea," she ordered. She knew this would be a long day as she sat at the dining table and wondered what had happened to her husband and where he was now.

A few minutes later Mira's door chimed.

"Enter," she called, getting up from the table.

In came Commander Rebecca Sinclair and Commander Cam MacLaughlin.

"Hi Doctor," said Rebecca. "We've come to wait with you."

"And the first thing we need is comfort food," said Cam, heading for the replicator. "Large Betazoid Chocolate Soufflé," she ordered. "I know you have this programmed," she said to Mira. "And three Red Bajoran Fizz." Cam brought the food and drinks to the table and took a seat beside Mira.

"Here, this will help," she said pushing the chocolate toward Mira.

"Thanks, Cam, Rebecca," said Mira, "I really appreciate this. I feel so helpless!"

"Mira, Jesse's got the engineering staff working on that message sent to Simon. I'm sure Taggert will find out who and where it came from," said Cam.

"Maxine's working on it?" asked Mira, surprised that the Chief Engineer would take the time for this with all her capable engineers who could do the job competently. Taggert and Mira were not exactly best friends, although Mira admired and respected Maxine a great deal. If the truth be known, both secretly liked each other, but would rather die than admit it.

"Yes," said Rebecca, "she insisted, saying she was the best engineer available and would handle it."

"Now that sounds like Maxine," said Mira. "Anyway, I'm glad she's the one working on it. I know she will do a good job and get to the bottom of it."

Mira got up and started pacing the room. "I'm sorry, but I can't sit still for more than a few minutes with all this on my mind," she said, running her hands through her long dark hair.

"That's okay, we understand," said Cam.

"Cam, do you know anything yet?" asked Mira.

"Not much, only the message that was sent to you was sent by the same person who sent Simon his message."

"Do they know who it is yet?"

"No, not exactly."

"What do you mean, 'not exactly'?" Mira could tell Cam was holding something back as the two had known each other for years and were good friends.

"Well, there is no doubt that the voice on Simon's message is" Cam hesitated . . . well, yours."

"Mine? That can't possibly be, Cam It's obviously a fabrication," said Mira, puzzled by this information.

"That's the problem, Mira. It's not a fake, but a real voice and for all intents and purposes, it's your voice. But since that can't be, there must be something more, so I have my team working on it as well as engineering. In fact, I need to get back and see how they're doing. There is something odd about the quantum signature on the recording. It's faint, but I think it's there."

"Quantum signature?" asked Mira. "But that could only mean . . ."

Cam nodded her head. "I'm afraid of the same thing, Mira. If the quantum signature is off, then that means only one thing . . . the voice is not of this universe."

"A parallel universe?" asked Mira. "Oh my God and Prophets!"

********************* Jesse returned to Mira and Simon's quarters several hours after Cam and Rebecca had left. "Mira, we have it confirmed. The voice was from another dimension according to the quantum signature. And from what we have found out about the woman Simon left with . . . she looked exactly like you."

Mira sat heavily down on the sofa, shaking her head. "But that's impossible! We don't have that technology yet! We can't travel between universes. And even if we could, the physical complications would result in illness and death. That was proven when the Enterprise-D was attacked by terrorists using trans-dimensional shifting devices."

"You're right, Mira, WE can't travel between dimensions, but apparently this other Mira can and did. It looks like she came here especially for Simon."

"But Jesse, that means there is no way to find Simon and bring him back!"

Jesse shook his head. "I'm sorry, Mira. But there is nothing we can do. Even if we had the ability to travel between dimensions, there could be multitudes of them and the chances of finding any particular one are . . . "

"Enormous," finished Mira. "Yes, I know. Then I've lost him forever, haven't I Jesse?" she said, her eyes filling with tears. "I've lost him forever then," she said quietly, dropping her head into her hands.

Jesse went to Mira and put his arm around her. "I've asked Cam to come over and be with you, Mira. I wish there was something more I can do."

Mira couldn't speak as she kept shaking her head back and forth, unable to accept the situation.

Jesse quietly left the room and pausing on the outside of the door, he slammed his big fist against the wall, venting his frustration at not being able to find his friend. "Dammit! Dammit! Dammit!" he yelled.

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

"Steady helm," came Captain Margret Fulton's calm voice as she stood on the bridge of her ship, the USS Warrior. "Full impulse."

The Warrior was currently conducting stress test exercises along the Werstra Asteroid Belt. Fulton wanted to test all systems just to be sure her ship and crew would be ready the next time they were called on to fight the Khynah or anyone else who might threaten Federation citizens.

"Status report," she called.

"Helm responding 100%," reported Lt. T'Seri, the Vulcan Ops Manager. "Inertial dampeners at 97% sir."

"Ninety-seven percent?" asked Fulton. "Run a level three diagnostic on the system. We need to be at 100% at all times."

"Yes, sir, running diagnostics."

Captain Margret Fulton wanted her ship and crew in tiptop shape at all times and was frustrated when that wasn't the case. Like all first time Captains, she wanted everything perfect. Soon she would realize that this could not always be the case.

"Weapons check," said Fulton, as she paced around the deck, hands on hips.

"Weapons at 100%," report Lt. Russ Bingham, Tactical Officer.

"Fire torpedoes one and two at the largest asteroid on screen," she ordered, "shields up."

"Shields up and firing torpedoes," responded Bingham. "Shields at 100%, torpedoes functioning normally," he said as both torpedoes impacted the asteroid, completely destroying it, sending smaller pieces of it into the shields of the Warrior.

"Fire all phasers," ordered the Captain.

"Firing phasers. Phasers operating at peak performance," reported Russ as the Warrior's phasers blasted into several of the asteroids, vaporizing them in seconds.

"Good. What's the status on the dampeners?"

"There appears to be a glitch in one of the sub system routines Captain," reported T'Seri. "Engineering will need to repair it."

"Fulton to Engineering."

"Engineering here, Captain. We're already on the dampeners. Should have them at 100% in 20 minutes."

"Good," said Fulton, " continue with repairs and inform me when they are completed."

"Aye sir.

"Not too bad," commented Commander Luz, Abrel, Fulton's Bajoran First Officer.

"But not quite good enough," said Margret.

Luz shook his head, knowing that Captain Margret Fulton would never be entirely pleased with anything. He on the other hand, was easier going. Ninety-seven percent was good enough for him.

Margret Fulton allowed herself to sit in the Captain's seat once all checks had been completed. When the repairs to the dampeners were completed she would set her course to return to DS 13 so her crew could enjoy the rest of the week on leave. She wouldn't mind seeing a few plays herself. She was particularly fond of the Betazoid ones. They held such tremendous emotions and it was good to let herself feel intensely every so often. As Captain she couldn't and wouldn't allow herself to feel things very deeply. It could be dangerous and ineffective if you had to order a crewman to his or her death.

"Captain, we are being hailed by the Alliance."

"On screen," said Margret, getting to her feet standing in front of the large viewscreen, located in front of the helm and ops.

"Captain Fulton," began Captain Marcus Forrester.

"Captain Forrester. Is there a problem?"

"I'm afraid so, Captain. We believe that Commander Simon McRaney was kidnapped at 1159 hours last night. We think he is aboard a ship that is registered to the Daystrome Institute, registration TDC-1.

"Is the ship heading this way?"

"That's the problem, Captain. We don't know where the ship is headed, but we've got all our shuttlecraft and runabouts out on test runs and they are keeping their eyes opened for it. We want you to do the same."

"Of course. Is there any further information on the ship?"

"We believe the ship may be an interdimensional craft. If so, it should leave a unique quantum ion trail, although we haven't found one leaving DS13 yet. Whoever did this covered their tracks well. You may be able to locate a sign of it by recalibrating your sensors."

"Understood. We'll do our best to find this ship Captain. Should I detain it and return it to DS13?"

"Yes, by all means, but no violence. We don't know who or what we're dealing with Margret. Be careful."

"Understood Marcus. Will the Alliance be part of the search teams?"

"Yes. But that ship has a huge head start on us and we don't even know which direction it has taken. Never the less, we'll give it a try. I can't just sit around here doing nothing."

"I understand how you feel, Captain. We'll keep you informed of our progress."

"Margret, Commander McRaney is a valuable officer and I want him back safely."

"So do I Captain. Good luck."

"And to you. Forrester out."

"Calibrate sensors to detect any abnormal quantum ion trails," ordered Fulton, "Search pattern Delta One."

"Search Delta One," stated T'Seri.

Captain Margret Fulton resumed her seat. "Damn! Who would want to kidnap a science officer? She wondered. Margret had met Simon several times and liked him. She hoped he was safe. Dr. Montgomery must be going nuts.

"Anything yet?" she asked.

"Nothing sir. No ships of any kind or any abnormal ion trails," reported Lt. T'Seri.

"Continue search. If that ship is out here, I want to find it."

"Don't' worry, sir, if that ship is anywhere near us, we'll find her," said Commander Luz.

"I like your enthusiasm Abrel. Proceed."

"Aye sir."

************* Once she reached the proper coordinates, Miranda entered a set of instructions into the control panel and the small craft began to vibrate intensely. The view out the main window became brilliantly white, obliterating all space and stars. Within a few seconds the stars and space returned.

************* "Anything, Lieutenant?" asked Captain Margret Fulton as she paced the bridge of the Warrior. "Nothing sir," responded Lt. T'Seri. "Perhaps we're not out far enough," said Commander Luz. "Helm, plot a circular course, search pattern Gamma 36 and engage at warp 3," ordered Fulton. "Aye sir," responded T'Seri. An hour later---- "Captain, we've picked up something on our long range sensors." "What is it?" "A ship, sir. But . . ." Margret jumped from her command chair. That's it! Plot an intercept course. When we get within hailing range, hail them." "Sir! We're detecting an engine overload on that ship," responded Lt. T'Seri. "What? Shields up!' Are they being attacked?" shouted Fulton. "No sir," responded Lt. Bingham. "No other ships within sensor range." "Then what?" asked the Captain. "A massive engine overload, sir! Something like I've never seen before," reported Bingham. Suddenly what appeared to be a massive explosion appeared on their sensors as an energy wake traveled fast toward the Warrior. "Sir! Massive energy wave heading straight---" A massive energy wake suddenly smashed into the Warrior. Captain Fulton was knocked into Commander Luz as both went sprawling to the floor, with Fulton landing on top of Luz. "Massive systems overload!" shouted Bingham, as his control panel sparked and smoked as he struggled to keep his seat. "Ah!" shouted T'Seri as her comm system exploded, the shock wave knocking her out of her chair and onto the floor unconscious. "Emergency procedures," shouted Fulton, picking herself up off of Luz. "Medics to the Bridge, stat! What in the hell happened?" she yelled. "Damage report!" called commander Luz, jumping up to the science station, rubbing his jaw where Fulton's elbow landed when they fell. "Major injuries reported on all decks. Warp engines off line! Life support off line! Comm systems off---" said Bingham. "Unknown energy wave hit us sir," said Luz. "It appeared to come from that ship, but they didn't fire at us. I don't know what it was." "All systems shut down," ordered Fulton. "Engineering, report." "Intership comm systems off line, sir," reported Bingham. "Damn!" said Margret, "What IS working! "Luz, grab a medkit and attend to T'Seri. Lt. Bingham, get down to engineering and see what's going on down there and report ASAP." "Yes, sir," said Russ, jumping up from his station, running for the turbolift, hoping IT was still working! Margret fanned away the smoke and sat at the helm station. "That doesn't make any sense! No ships--no attack--no plasma storms--just that ship!" "Sir, that ship has disappeared. It's no longer on our sensors," reported Luz. "Scan for debris," said Margret. "Something hit that ship and ours!" "No debris of any kind, Captain," reported Luz. "But there is an energy wake traveling away from us and dissipating. "Is it what hit us?" asked the Captain. "I believe so. Although it's strength is rapidly diminishing." "What was it?" "Lt. Bingham to Captain Fulton." "Russ, I see you have the intership comm system working," said Margret. "Report." "Only engineering to bridge comm systems, Captain, everything else is still off line. Engineering reports we were hit by an inter-dimensional energy wake. They think it happened when the ship made a jump into another dimension." "Incredible!" said Margret. "What's engineering's status?" "We have impulse engines only. Warp repairs will take at least four to six hours." "Tell them to get on it," said Margret. "Report back to the Bridge, Russ." "Aye sir, on my way." *************** Several days later, Miranda's craft entered a Xanor II orbit. She guided the craft into the main landing pad where she transported the still unconscious Simon into her quarters. She then erased all records of the trip and left the craft to go to her now husband, Simon. They were finally home.

Miranda tucked the bed covers lovingly around Simon. Next she removed her hypospray and administered the first of many injections which would keep Simon's memories of his former life suppressed until Miranda could convince him that he belonged with her here on Xanor II by bombarding him with memories of her and Simon's lives together in this universe. She would accomplish this by playing a recording of their lives together while he slept and of course, telling him of their lives when he was awake.

She sat by the bed and smoothed his hair. Picking up his hand she kissed it. "I have you back now my love. Finally we are together again."

******************* Several hours after the Warrior was hit by an interdimensional energy wake it limped back to DS 13. It would take several days to get all the damaged systems operational. "I'm sorry Marcus," said Captain Margret Fulton as she sat on the sofa in Forrester's ready room aboard the Alliance. "We arrived too late to intercept that ship." "She had a good head start on us Margret. I'm surprised you located it at all. How's your crew?" "Two with major injuries which required surgery. Twenty-two have minor injuries and are back on duty. The ship took a beating though." "I'll get engineering on the repairs immediately," said Forrester. "Thank you. I'd better get back to my ship now. There's plenty of work to do. Marcus, do you want me to inform Dr. Montgomery of this?" "No, I'll do it." "I know she will be taking leave in order to try and find Commander McRaney?" "Yes." "Let's hope she has better luck than we did," said Margret, feeling like a failure for not bringing back that ship. "I hope she will. You did your best Margret," said Forrester. "We all did." "Thank you sir, but I still can't help but feel like a failure." "I'm afraid, Margret, that this will not be the last time as a Captain you will have that particular feeling," he smiled. Margret smiled, turned and walked out the door. Forrester took a deep breath and hit his comm badge. "Captain Forrester to Dr. Montgomery . . ." ********************

The past week had been a busy one for Mira. She refused to believe there was nothing she could do to find and bring Simon back. So she had put out 'feelers' to everyone she knew in Starfleet to contact her if they had any information regarding interdimensional travel. So far, she had learned little more than she already knew.

While awaiting word from others, she began her own search through Starfleet records. This resulted in little additional information. She even had Cam MacLaughlin making contacts for her as well. Being a science officer, Cam had many contacts in the science department and surely someone would know something. That is, if there was anything to know.

Little did Mira know, but Jesse Sanchez, Maxine Taggert and Rebecca Sinclair had all put out their own 'feelers", trying to find anything that would help Mira find Simon.

Now the Alliance was preparing to leave DS13 and Mira had to make an important decision--to stay aboard the Alliance and continue as CMO, or stay behind to pursue her quest. She had weighed the decision carefully and decided that she could not give her full attention to her duties while searching for Simon. She would take a leave of absence for awhile to give the search her all and then hopefully she and Simon would return to their duties together.

"Dr. Montgomery to Captain Forrester".

"Forrester here, go ahead Doctor."

"Captain, I need to see you. It's very important."

"I've been expecting your call, Doctor. Please come to my quarters at your convenience."

"I'm on my way. Montgomery out."

A few minutes later Mira was explaining her decision to leave to Captain Forrester.

"Sir, I can't help but feel that Starfleet or some other organization has progressed further along in the study of interdimensional travel than is widely known. I need time to discover if I'm right and if I can bring Simon back.

"I thought as much, Doctor. I know you and others have been contacting people in Starfleet Science for this information for the past week. I hope you're correct in your assumption. How much time do you think you'll need?"

"I don't' know for sure, but I feel if I've not found out anything within three months, then there is nothing more to find."

"Three months then. Your leave is approved. I'm sure you have already made arrangement for the Medbay?"

"I've left instructions that Doctor Valorie is to be in charge of Medbay in my absence. I'm sure that she can handle anything which may occur."

"Very well, Doctor . . . Mira. I wish you good luck. And if the Alliance or I can assist you in anyway let me know. I don't wish to lose another good officer."

"Thank you sir. I appreciate that."

Mira left the Captain's quarters, went back to her own, picked up her bags and transported down to DS13. She would begin her search there.

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

The quarters she was given aboard DS13 were small and included a bed, desk, replicator and bathroom. Commander Giovanni offered her a suite, but since rooms were at a premium here (less than 200) she would leave the suites to higher ranking officers and VIPs. Most visitors who came to DS13, did not stay overnight, but came only for a tournament or play then left or either slept aboard their own ships.

"Incoming secured transmission for Dr. Mira Montgomery. Security Code required," spoke the computer.

"Secure transmission? Wondered Mira. "Dr. Mira Montgomery, Security Code, MM 213 dash 112.

"Identity Confirmed," said the computer. "Begin transmission."

"Dr. Montgomery, this is Admiral Jennings. I'm calling in reference to the disappearance of your husband, Commander Simon McRaney."

The Starfleet Science Director. News sure travels fast thought Mira. "Yes, Admiral?"

"Doctor, there may be someone who can help you, but before I give you this information you must understand that everything I say and anything you might discover must remain absolutely confidential for security purposes. I'm sure that as a Starfleet Commander, you will realize the necessity of this. You must under no circumstances discuss what you are to learn with anyone. If Bill McRaney weren't such as old friend of mine, I would not be informing you of this. But I know your record and know that you are an excellent Starfleet officer and will keep all of this confidential."

So Simon's father still has pull in Starfleet, thought Mira. Guess it's true about old Captains never dying. "Yes, of course, Admiral. You have my word as a Starfleet Officer."

"Good. Now in approximately 12 hours, my daughter, Captain Celeste Knight will pick you up at DS13 and transport you to Delcor III. You will find Dr. Richard Stevens there and he will be able to help you with your present problems."

"Dr. Richard Maurice Stevens?" asked Mira, her heart suddenly speeding up at the mention of his name.

"Yes, that's correct. You know him?"

"Yes. We met while I was stationed at Starbase 24, but I thought he was still in the Medical Corps."

"I believe he began his studies in Science shortly after he left Starbase 24. But I'm sure he will be able to explain everything when you arrive."

"Thank you Admiral. I really appreciate your help in this matter."

"I've known Bill McRaney since before he was married. I'm glad to help. It might interest you to know that Captain Forrester and others have contacted me in regards to your situation. It seems you have many friends in Starfleet, Doctor."

Mira smiled. "That's good to know Admiral. Thank you again."

"Good luck, Doctor Montgomery. Jennings out."

Now that was a surprise, thought Mira. And to think that Captain Forrester and others had contacted the Admiral about this. It's good to have friends, she smiled.

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

"Incoming message for Dr. Mira Montgomery," blared the computer in Mira's quarters on DS13. It was 0312 and Mira had just managed to fall asleep.

"Go ahead computer," said Mira, wiping the sleep from her eyes.

"Dr. Montgomery. This is Captain Celeste Knight. I hear you need a ride?"

"Yes, Captain, that's correct."

"Be ready to leave in one hour. I'm docked at Cargo Bay 3."

"One hour?"

"Yes. I have a schedule to keep Doctor."

"Oh, I wasn't complaining, just surprised."

"Fine, one hour then. Out."

"Well, nice to meet you too, Captain Knight," said Mira, still halfway asleep. Getting out of bed, she quickly showered and pulled on her duty uniform, and grabbed herself a cup of coffee from the replicator.

Forty five minutes later Mira stepped into Cargo Bay 3 and was immediately shoved brusquely aside by an irate female Klingon who came storming passed her as she stood searching the bay for Captain Knight.

Mira's eyes followed the Klingon to a tall, shorthaired woman, dressed in gray coveralls, holding a padd. Captain Knight thought Mira.

"Why has my leave been interrupted!" shouted the Klingon.

"I'll talk to you later, Shav'el," said the woman in coveralls. "Now help get these crates loaded and get aboard."

The Klingon stood in front of her snarling.

"Now!" she shouted.

Mira walked up to her after the Klingon stormed away. "Captain Knight, I'm Doctor---"

"Follow me, Doctor," she said, interrupting Mira.

"Yes sir" Mira quipped, even though Captain Knight was not in Starfleet, but was a civilian freighter captain. She would do well in Starfleet thought Mira.

---------------------------

After leaving DS13 and setting their course, Captain Knight went back to Mira's small cabin that contained a bed and bathroom and not much else.

"May I come in, Doctor?" asked Celeste, standing in the doorway. "I'm sorry if I was rude at DS13, but I'm like that while loading and unloading cargo. I like to get business completed before anything else."

"That's perfectly understandable, Captain. I know this was short notice for you."

"While I wasn't planning on stopping by DS13 this soon, I needed to pick up cargo and one of my crew next week anyway."

"I hope I didn't inconvenience you too much."

"Shav'el wasn't too pleased with cutting her leave short, but she'll get over it. Too much leave time for a Klingon isn't good for anyone," she laughed. "But now that we're underway, I can relax. Would you like to see my ship?"

"I'd love to, Captain. From what I've already seen, I'm impressed. This is one of the larger freighters I've seen."

"It's not bad," said Celeste leading the way to the bridge, with Mira following. "Along with ferrying cargo back and forth across the galaxy, I also have a salvage business which requires a rather large cargo bay. That's why the ship is so large."

"When they arrived on the Bridge, Mira asked, "May we speak freely, Captain?" Mira noticed two crewmembers manning the bridge.

"Sure. I trust my crew. I should, I picked all eleven myself."

"Only eleven to run such a large ship?"

"It doesn't take many to run a ship as long as you have a few good engineers--and I have four."

"Where exactly is Delcor III? I've never heard of the planet," said Mira.

"I'm not surprised. There is no reason for anyone to know about it. It's an ice planet way out in the middle of nowhere. I've never been there, but I have heard of it."

"Do you know why I am going there," asked Mira. "I mean, what's on the planet."

"I know there is some sort of outpost there, but I know nothing more. I'm sorry, but Dad didn't give me anymore information than you it seems."

"What's our ETA?"

"If we head straight there with no stops and at maximum warp--which on this ship is 8.6--about seven days. But I need to make a couple of stops first. In which case it will take two to three days longer."

"How much would it take for you not to make those stops, Captain? I'm really on a time budget here."

"It's that important?"

"Yes very. I can't say exactly why, but my husband's life depends on it."

"Hmmm. In that case, I'll forgo the stops, even though it will cost me in bonus credits. The crew won't like it, but I can explain things to them."

"About how important this trip is?"

Celeste laughed. "Not hardly! They respect credits more than anything else. But I CAN explain how it is worth more than credits to have a Starfleet Doctor--a Commander at that-owing us a favor."

"I see. No credits then. I just owe you a favor?"

"Right. Sometimes favors are worth far more than credits."

"Agreed then," said Mira.

"We should have you there in about eight or nine days. We can't travel at maximum warp the whole trip--too hard on the engines."

"That's fine. I understand. And thank you again."

"Hey, I was married at one time myself. He died five years ago."

"I'm sorry to hear that. Was he a freighter captain too?"

"No. He was in Starfleet Security. He was on an undercover mission which failed."

"Is that when you became a freighter captain?"

"No. I was a captain long before that. In fact that's how Bert and I met 14 years ago. I delivered cargo to Starbase 207 where his ship was docked. We married two months later." Celeste smiled at the memory. "How long have you been married, Doctor?"

"Call me Mira, please. I've been married less than two years."

"Ah still newlyweds then. I hope you find what you are looking for on Delcor III, Mira."

"Thank you. So do I."

"Say, you wouldn't happen to play poker, would you?" asked Celeste.

Mira smiled. "Well, I have played it a few times," said Mira.

"Great! We usually have a nightly poker game in the galley. It will be nice to have fresh blood in the game for a change."

"Fresh blood? You sound like a Klingon," said Mira.

Celeste laughed. "Not really. You haven't heard what a Klingon sounds like while playing poker! Or have you?"

"No I haven't. I look forward to the experience."

"I'm sure you do," smiled Celeste. "Now, take at look at these control panels . . . "

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

Having no holodeck in which to exercise, Mira found the large recreation area on the ship served her purposes well. She had just begun her warm up stretches when in walked Shav'el.

Mira ignored the Klingon and continued her Klingon style warm-ups. After the stretches, she went into her Klingon exercises--the same ones she had practiced everyday for years.

"You are not Klingon!" shouted Shav'el. "Why do you use our practice moves!" Shav'el walked closer to Mira, who was hoping she would just leave, but knew she wouldn't. She was looking for a fight. Probably not enough foes to fight on a freighter. Or maybe she just got tired of beating up her crewmates.

"I find them adequate for my purposes," said Mira, in a soft tone of voice.

"Ha! You want to try a real Klingon, instead of the imaginary one you fight?" she asked, standing with hands on her hips, legs spread apart--a fighting stance.

"Not particularly," said Mira. "I don't care to fight, just exercise."

"You are a coward then!" Shav'el shouted.

"Believe what you will," said Mira. Trying to ignore her.

"The Captain has informed us that you are the reason my leave was cut short. And also, why I will not be receiving my expected bonus!"

"I'm sure Captain Knight has also explained the reason why and that it would be advantageous my owing her a favor?"

Mira threw a jab at the air, followed by a kick.

"That does me no good!" she yelled. "What do I care of your husband's life!"

Mira stopped in mid kick. Shav'el should not have mentioned Simon. The frustration of the past several days had come to a head as Mira focused her steely gaze at the Klingon standing in front of her.

"You want a fight? Okay. You've got one!" she shouted, kicking out at Shav'el, catching a stunned Klingon in the chest, knocking her back several steps.

Shav'el smiled at Mira, as she moved closer to her, throwing a punch at Mira's face.

Mira blocked it with her left arm, then palmed Shav'el in the nose with her right hand.

Blood started from Shav'el's nose and Mira felt remorse for just a minute as her doctor's instincts came through.

This was a mistake on Mira's part as Shav'el threw another punch, this time left handed at Mira, which she blocked successfully, but wasn't prepared for the knee to her stomach.

Mira went down hard, landing on her knees, gasping for breath!

Shav'el took no mercy and came at Mira as she was bent over, preparing to kick her, but Mira saw it coming and rolled out of the way, making her way to her feet, while still trying to catch her breath.

Shav'el ran at Mira with both arms outstretched, preparing to grab her by the throat, but Mira quickly grabbed her arm, sidestepping her allowing Shav'el's momentum to carry her past her. A quick kicked to the rear sent Shav'el crashing to the floor with a thud!

Mira now had her breath back and was waiting for Shav'el's next move.

Shav'el came quickly to her feet and rushed again at Mira, kicking at her, which Mira blocked with both hands, backing up at the same time to lessen the force of Shav'el's blows.

Shav'el kicked at Mira again catching Mira in the left ribs, knocking her to the ground once again. Mira spun around and hit the floor hard!

Shav'el came at her, not waiting for her to get back to her feet, grabbing Mira by the neck and pulling her up off the floor.

Mira pulled her arms up between the Klingon's and pushed out, breaking Shav'el's hold.

She struck Shav'el with the flat of her palm.

A quick kick to Shav'el's gut sent her backwards.

Still on her feet, Shav'el came around with a left fist which grazed Mira's cheek.

Shav'el grabbed Mira by the throat, squeezing. Mira could feel her feet leaving the ground as the tall Klingon pulled her off her feet!

Mira took her hands from Shav'el's arms and slammed both palms hard against her ears!

Shav'el screamed, dropping Mira to the floor, and kicking out at her.

Mira grabbed Shav'el's' boot, twisting it, hard!

Shav'el went crashing to the ground, her ankle, twisted, maybe broken.

Mira was wondering what else Shav'el planned to pull on her when she heard a shout from the entranceway--It was Captain Knight.

"Enough!" she shouted, coming up to the two opponents, who were still on the floor.

"What is this?" she asked.

"We . . . were . . . exercising . . . " Mira barely managed to gasp out, through her painful larynx.

"Shav'el?"

Shav'el looked at Mira, wondering why she didn't report her for attacking her. "Yes. Exercising the Klingon way."

"Get cleaned up and back to your station," she ordered Shav'el.

"Doctor?" she asked, looking Mira over, wondering how badly she was hurt. Shav'el was known to pick fights with everyone.

"I'm . . . okay. Just winded," she said as Captain Knight helped her to her feet.

"Good. Then there is no problem here?" Knight looked from Mira to Shav'el.

"No Captain."

"No," said Mira.

"I'll get back to my bridge then." She looked at Shav'el, giving her a frown, then left.

Shav'el walked over to Mira. "You don't fight like a doctor," she said.

"Neither do you," said Mira, wincing at the pain in her ribs and throat.

Shav'el threw her head back and let out a big laugh, then slapped Mira on the back. "Good Klingon humor! I think we will be good friends," she smiled.

Mira just smiled as she and Shav'el made their way out of the recreation area.

"Tomorrow, we do this again, yes?" asked Shav'el.

"Don't . . . think . . . so. Only . . . exercise . . . once . . a month," she lied, rubbing her sore throat and holding her painful ribs.

"Too bad you won't be on the ship that long, then," said Shav'el. "You give a good workout!"

"Thanks," said Mira, wondering if her ribs were broken and how quickly she could limp to her room for a nice hypo of pain medication. She hoped she brought enough!

----------------------------------------------

Delcor III was a barren ice planet. There was no life except for microorganisms and bacteria. The whole planet was white--white ground, white boulders, white mountains, white sky and the temperature never rose above 22 degrees during the hottest part of the day and would fall to an average of 120 degrees below zero at night. Most of the day it stayed around 10 to 20 below zero. Not a place you would care to get caught out in without a coat.

The planet was far from any other planet or star system and of no use to anyone other than the few scientists living there. Their base was situated in a large cave inside one of the many mountains and was quite comfortable as long as the environmental controls were working properly--which they always were thanks to the care of two Starfleet Engineers. A perfect place for interdimensional experiments. Far enough out in space to not cause any dimensional ripples, should they occur.

Mira beamed into the main entrance area of the large facility. Actually it was one large room with computer terminals, desks, monitors and all sorts of other kinds of equipment placed here and there. On the white walls stood many vid screens, some with diagrams and other information on them. Six people were at the desks and screens, busily working. The cavernous room reached at least 20 meters back to a wall with a single door. The ceiling was 12 meters high with large lights suspended from it.

"Ah, Dr. Mira Montgomery! We meet again," said Dr. Richard Stevens, coming from an office to the left, to greet her. "Welcome to my humble and balmy planet."

Dr. Richard Stevens was a fit and trim, 6' 1" tall man with wavy sandy hair that curled around his ears. He wore blue jeans, sneakers and an oversized brightly colored, flower print shirt. Something fit more for the tropics than this frigid ice planet.

Mira put out her hand to shake his, but he bypassed it and gave her a tight hug. "Hello again, Richard. Nice to see you too," she said uncomfortably. "I had no idea you were into science experiments now."

"Yes, yes. My you do look good, Meery. I transferred out of medical into science about a year after our last meeting."

"You mean a year after you got married."

"Um, yes, well that too. Come, come into my office. I know you are in a hurry to discover what I have found out about interdimensional travel, right?" Mira took a good look at Richard's clothes. "Did you resign Starfleet, Richard?"

"No, why? Oh, the clothes? All of us decided right from the start that this planet needed as much color as possible. It makes for a more enjoyable working atmosphere since most of us are pulling one-year assignments. But I'm sure you would know about colors with your metaphysical studies, right?"

Mira was stunned that he remembered her studies from so long ago. At that time she didn't think he even noticed her interests. "Yes. Colors do help make the atmosphere. I guess Admiral Jennings contacted you about my visit?"

"Of course. No one comes out here without his approval . . . and mine," he smiled. "Just leave your bags out here. I will have them taken to your room."

Mira dropped her bags and followed Richard into his office, wishing with all her heart that the top scientist in this field were someone else! What was the Universe trying to tell her now? She wondered. Unfinished business maybe?

Richard's office consisted of a desk, chair and small sofa with a replicator, terminal and vid screen to the right side of his desk. The front wall was transparent. Mira took a seat in the chair in front of his desk.

"The sofa's more comfortable, Meery," he suggested.

"Richard, would you mind not calling me that. I really don't like it. Mira is fine."

"Oh, I'm sorry, of course . . . Mira. Old times you know," he smiled.

"Very old times. Now, what can you tell me about interdimensional travel? Do you know how to do it or not?"

"Well, if I didn't, you've come an awful long way for nothing. And I don't think Admiral Jennings is in the habit of sending people on long trips for nothing."

"Then you've been successful? Traveled interdimensionally?"

"Yes, several times. In fact, you are just in time for our seventh jump. We are planning to launch another ship in just two days."

"Really? That's fascinating! She was expecting this, but still it came as a surprise to hear someone else say it. "Tell me, what have you discovered about traveling in other dimensions."

"Mira, don't you want something to eat or drink first? Or maybe you would like to rest? There is plenty of time for all this after you've rested. I'd love to show you the rest of my facility. I'm rather proud of it," he said with a grin.

"Thank you Richard, but no. I really want to know what you know. The tour can wait."

"Ah, still direct and to the point, aren't you Meer . . . Mira?

"Yes. And you are still evasive."

"Only thinking of your comfort my dear."

"I'm sure your wife would appreciate that, Richard. By the way, where is Kay?

"It's Karen, and we're no longer married. In fact, she hasn't been my wife for six years now."

"Oh, I'm sorry to hear that, Richard." She really was too. But it had taken her several years to reach this point in her life. The point where she finally had released her anger over Richard's leaving her.

"Don't be, I'm not. It was good while it lasted. And we did get two beautiful kids out of it." He picked up a picture in a gold frame and handed it to Mira. "See? That's Kelly and Jason. Cute huh?" he said, a big grin on his face.

Mira took the picture from him. "Yes, beautiful. He looks just like you. I imagine Kelly looks like her mom?"

"Yes. Karen is a very beautiful woman."

"I imagine she is," said Mira, putting the picture back onto the desk.

"That's not why we never made it Mira. I didn't leave you for her."

"Richard, this is not the time to talk about that. In fact, I don't think there will ever be a time to talk about the past . . .our past. For that's just what it is . . .the past. I am here to find my husband, whom I love very much."

"I know you do. If you didn't love him so much you wouldn't be willing to risk your life and career to find him. I can remember a time when your career came before anything or anyone."

"Richard, please!"

"Okay, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to get into all that. It just sorta slipped out. But really, right now it's suppertime around here and I intend to get something to eat. After that I will tell you all you want to know."

"All right. I guess I can't expect to come barging in here disrupting your schedule. Where's the dining area?"

"Good," he said with a smile. "Follow me." Richard got up and went through a door to the back of his office, which opened, into a narrow hallway. At the end of this hallway opened a door into a large rectangular room with one long rectangular table and chairs in the middle of the room. Replicators and counters reached all along the walls.

The walls were covered with holographic representations of Earth landscapes, to offset the stark whiteness of the room. There were ocean scenes, complete with breaking waves and a meadow with running streams.

Three people were already seated and eating at the table. "Crew," began Richard, "this is Dr. Mira Montgomery, an old friend of mine and someone who will be joining in our experiments for awhile."

Mira exchanged greetings with the two men and one woman, whom Richard introduced as Carl, Jack and Rita, and then followed him over to the large replicator. After ordering food and drink, they both sat down at the table, Richard at his usual seat at one end of the table and Mira to his right.

After exchanging pleasantries and chitchat, Mira asked, "So, what have you discovered about other dimensions, Richard? I know that what you have accomplished is much more than is generally known."

"Yes quite a lot more in fact. This is kept secret for obvious reasons. If it were to get out that we know how to travel interdimensionally, well . . . it could be used in all sorts of negative ways."

"Yeah, the Romulans would do anything to acquire our knowledge," said Carl, sipping at a cup of coffee. He was a young man in his early twenties, wearing a bright red and blue shirt and jeans.

"Or the Klingons, for that matter," added Rita, a pretty red head with long curly locks.

"Yes, I can imagine," said Mira, thinking of what they could do with this information, or Prophets forbid, the Khynah!

"We have discovered that each dimension vibrates on its own frequency, not that much different from our own. This is general knowledge. So, all we have had to discover is how to access that frequency enough in order to send a craft there and back. This we have done. We have modulated a subspace field capsule and sent that into another dimension. This probe brought back enough information for us to send a manned ship to three other dimensions and back. Although we have stayed out only a few days at a time--we don't believe that staying longer--even indefinitely--would be a problem."

"This is incredible! What did you find on the manned trips?" asked Mira.

"If what you are asking is what kind of organizations and people exist there, we don't know. We simply didn't venture into any populated areas. This is our next step."

"How did you compensate for the cellular radiation damage?"

"We haven't found any. What you are referring to is the damage brought on by interdimensional shifting that the Enterprise-D encountered. That was the result of direct tissue exposure during the shifting. We have discovered some residual side effects such as dizziness and nausea. But we can compensate for those."

"Interesting. I have to ask you then; will I be able to travel into another dimension and search for Simon?"

"Yes, I believe so, but not by yourself. I will be going with you, along with our chief engineer, Rita.

"What? But I don't know how long this will take. It could be weeks or months before I find Simon! Spending months in a small ship with Richard was something Mira was not looking forward to.

"This is my experiment, Mira. I must go and retrieve data. This will be the first time we will be interacting with beings from another dimension. You don't think I would stay behind do you?"

"No, I suppose not. But what about the Prime Directive?"

"The PD only applies to societies not as advanced as our own. According to our data, the three dimensions we have visited should be almost exactly like our own. In other words, there are duplicates of you and I living there also. The societies should be similar to our own. But of course, we won't know that for sure until we take that trip and see for ourselves."

"What about the spatial dimensions?" asked Mira. "If we leave here on this planet, will be show up on this planet in that other dimension?"

"Yes. The spatial coordinates would be the same. A star system here is located exactly in the same place there. And as far as we can tell, all stars are the same as well. In other words, there are no missing stars in a certain system, or extra ones for that matter."

"When you're finished eating, I'll take you to see my ship."

"I'm finished now," said Mira, anxious to begin.

"Let's get started then." Mira followed Richard back out the hallway through his office to the main room. Turning left out of his office they walked all the way to the back of the main work area entering through the singular doorway. This opened into a room about as large as the main one, but had nothing except a large, sleek, black and silver ship sitting under a set of brilliant lights.

"It's beautiful, Richard," said Mira, taking in the sight of the ship as the lights danced off the shiny craft, causing it to almost glow.

"Yes, she is. I'm rather proud of her myself as I helped design her."

"Really? I'm impressed."

"Care to board her?"

"Very much."

Richard walked up to the side of the ship and touched a panel, causing a doorway to slide open and a ramp to lower. He then gestured Mira ahead and followed her inside.

They entered on deck 3, where equipment and supplies were stored. An open lift was located at the starboard wall and serviced all decks.

Below them on deck 4 were the engines, while deck 2 contained the living quarters, complete with four bedrooms, each containing one bed and storage area. All rooms were identical with soft gray carpeting and light blue walls.

Deck two also contained the kitchen area with a replicator, table and chairs along with storage compartments built into the walls. A vid screen and two computer terminals sat along one wall. One bathroom sat to the back of the deck complete with sonic and water shower. The bridge area was yellow, orange and beige and contained a transporter in the middle of the room, and a sofa, table and chairs to the rear of the cabin.

The living area was furnished in blues and greens while deck 3 was silver and black.

The ship had wings close to its body and was silver blue with black on the tips of the wings and nose. The name, 'Celestial Wind' was written along the side. The top two decks contained windows along the side, along with a large viewer window in the bridge area.

"All the comforts of home," remarked Mira.

"I've prepared very well for these trips. We never know how long we'll be gone.

"Good idea. So, when is the next flight?"

"In two days. I'll need to prep you on how to handle the ship and on other equipment before we leave."

"You finally got your ship, didn't you?"

"I'm surprised you remembered, Mira."

"How could I forget? That's all you talked about for two years--how one day you would have your own ship in which to sail the galaxy."

"As I recall, it was supposed to be the two of us together, sailing the galaxy."

"Yes . . . well. Some things just aren't meant to be."

"I suppose not," Richard said, quietly. After a few awkward minutes of silence, Richard said, "I have some more work to do now, but if you want to get some sleep---"

"No, I'm too wound up to sleep. Show me what I'll need to know about the ship. I can fly most anything."

"Yes, I remember. Okay, if you insist. Let's start with the control panels. They're pretty much standard Starfleet with a few modifications . . ."

It was one o'clock before Mira got into bed. Two hours later, she was still wide-awake, tossing and turning. "Damn! I need to get some sleep! But I don't want to take any meds as they would put me out for more hours than I care to be. Tea. Yes, Valerian Root Tea just might help." Mira got out of bed, put on her warm robe and slippers and trotted out into the kitchen area, heading for the replicators.

No one was in the kitchen as she carried her cup to the table and took a sip. Mira smiled at remembering how she once prescribed this tea for Maxine Taggert. Taggert had taken one sip and refused to touch the stuff again thinking it was much too bitter. It was bitter, but it worked well as a mild sedative.

"Mind if I join you?"

Startled, Mira jumped.

"Sorry, I didn't mean to scare you," said Richard, heading for the replicator. "I couldn't sleep either. Too much on my mind, I suppose."

"Join the club."

Richard ordered hot chocolate and sat beside Mira.

After a few moments of silence, Richard spoke. "Mira, we are going to be spending a lot of time together for the next few weeks, possibly longer, and I think we need to clear the air between us, so to speak."

Mira turned to him. "What do you mean?" although she knew very well as to what he was referring--their long ago relationship which she did not want to talk about, but knew she couldn't avoid. From the moment Admiral Jennings mentioned his name, she knew this conversation would be unavoidable.

"I think you know what I'm talking about. The fact that we never married after being engaged for two years."

"That's all in the past now, Richard. I think it's best left there." Mira took another sip of her tea, trying to ignore him.

"No, it's not. There was no closure, you know that."

"Okay Richard, you want to talk about it? About how we could never find the few minutes it took to get married and then not three months after you left the starbase, I hear that you got married? Is that what you want to talk about? How that said to me that it was not the time limits that prevented us from getting married, but the fact that you didn't want to marry ME!" Mira got up and began to pace. She thought she had put all these feelings behind her years ago. Apparently not, judging by the intensity of her emotions now.

Richard played with his cup, his head down. He knew she was right. "Mira, I'm sorry about that. Not about my getting married, but because I never told you about it. I realize now that while I loved you at the time, I was scared too."

"Scared? Of what? Me? Marriage? What Richard? What was so terrifying that you ran away from me--from us?" Mira suddenly realized that she had been shouting and calmed herself.

"Both. But mainly, I think of . . . you." He got up and faced her. "Mira, I was not a very confident person back then. You were one rank higher than I was and a much better doctor. I was afraid that by marrying you I would lose what little of myself I had left. I couldn't tell you that so I kept making excuses for not getting married and then when I knew the excuses wouldn't last much longer, I left. That's the truth, Mira. Can you understand that at all? You were such a strong woman, doctor, officer that I simply couldn't deal with it. I'm sorry. I've thought about this for years. I've felt guilty over it and wanted to tell you years ago."

"Then why didn't you? You have no idea what I went through after you left! I was devastated Richard! I was in love with you! And then when word came that you had married, well, then the hurt intensified. Not only that, but I had to endure all the pitying looks from my co-workers. Poor Mira! Richard dumped her and ran off to marry a pretty little botanist! I hated you after that. For years I blamed myself for running you off--for not loving you enough--for not spending enough time with you--for . . .for . . .whatever!" Mira threw her arms up in frustration and walked away from him.

"Mira, It wasn't you, it was me. All of it. It took me years to understand that, but I see things clearly now."

Mira turned and faced him again. "Don't you think I know that NOW! Of course it was you, Richard. I know that now, but it took years of guilt and pain to realize that. But tell me, why didn't you contact me after you realized everything? Why didn't you at least have the decency to tell me?" Mira ran her hands through her hair and just stood facing him--waiting.

"I tried many times, but then I thought it might bring up bad memories all over again and I didn't want to mess up your life any more than I already had."

Mira laughed. "Richard. You lost the power to effect my life years ago. I got over it. I continued in my career, and met and married a wonderful man--one who by the way, isn't intimidated by me."

"I know you've done well, Mira. But really, if you've put all of this behind you, would you be this upset now?"

Mira stared at him for a few seconds, not saying anything, then took a deep breath and sat down. After taking a few sips of her now cool tea, she said, "You're right, Richard. I thought all of this was behind me, but you're right--I never had closure. I didn't think seeing you again would be this way. I thought I would feel nothing, but instead all I feel is anger."

"That much is evident," said Richard, smiling as he walked to the replicator and back. "Here, your tea is cold." He placed a hot cup of tea in front of her.

"Thanks. This stuff is bad enough hot, much less cold." The tension broken, Richard laughed, as did Mira. "Relationships are funny things Richard."

"So the counselors tell me."

"You've seen many?"

"Oh yes, too many to count. But they helped me to put things in their proper perspective." He took Mira's hand in his. "I'm really sorry that I hurt you, Mira. I loved you then and still care for you now. You were an important part of my life, and as such will always be a part of me. That's why I will do everything in my power to help you get your husband back."

"Thank you Richard--for that and for the closure. I guess I needed that more than I realized."

"Good. Now I suggest we try and get some sleep. Tomorrow is a big work day for us." He got up, still holding her hand and kissed it and left the room.

Mira took a few more sips of her tea, then carried both her and Richard's cup back to the replicator and pushed the reclamation button. Watching the cups disappear, she realized that, like them, her old relationship with Richard was gone. But also like the cups whose molecules would remain in the replicator to produce something new, Richard would remain in her life and hopefully this would produce a new and better relationship for them both.

Mira turned off the lights and returned to her room to sleep.

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

The next day was spent with Mira familiarizing herself with the controls of the 'Celestial Wind'. Equipment and supplies were loaded and Richard, Mira and Rita all went over their plans for after leaving Delcor III.

They had planned to initiate the search for Simon by having the ship's computer tie into the Intergalactic Personnel Directory and the Starfleet Database using Mira's codes, if they were listed in Starfleet. Richard discovered in the first inter-dimensional trips that the computer codes seem to be similar enough to allow this tie in. These should provide an excellent starting point for their search.

At the end of the long day, all preparations were made and everyone was ready to begin their adventure.

Mira had trouble sleeping again that night but decided to tough it out without heading for the kitchen and tea again. While she felt she and Richard had cleared the air regarding their relationship, she still didn't want to risk another personal conversation the night before their mission.

Richard felt the same way as he lay in his own bed, thinking of the ship and what they might find in the other universes.

Rita was the only one in the kitchen that night, unable to sleep. She was hoping she might find Richard up too. She really wanted some personal time with him before tomorrow. After tonight, she would not have a chance to be alone with him for who knows how long.

Rita has been the chief engineer for the past six months now and while she and Richard had not engaged in any intimate relations, she was still hoping that one day they might. She had been attracted to him from the first moment she saw him. He seemed to like her too, but was more concerned with his work than working at a personal relationship. She knew that he and Dr. Montgomery had been engaged at one time and was worried that he might not have resolved their relationship and that he might even still be in love with her. Her fears were put to rest as Mira appeared to be happily married and Richard, while obviously still attracted to her, didn't seem to want to begin their relationship again--even if he could.

She put her cup of hot chocolate in the replicator, pushed the button and left, heading back to her room and a fitful night's sleep.

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

Precisely at 0900 hours, Mira, Richard and Lieutenant Rita Benji, sat in the 'Celestial Wind', anxious to being their journey.

Mira and Richard sat up front in the pilot's seats while Rita sat behind and to the right of them at the engineering station, monitoring the ship's status. "Everything is set to go," she replied.

"Beginning pre-flight check, said Richard.

"All systems go," replied Mira.

A few minutes later, the Celestial Wind was winding its way far out into space, away from all planets and stars.

"Stevens to control, " began Richard, "initiating interdimensional engines."

"Acknowledged," responded Base Control on Delcor III. "Have a good trip. See you . . . whenever you get back," came Carl's voice.

Richard turned to Mira, "Ready Doctor?"

"Yes, Doctor. Proceed."

Richard initiated the ITD (Inter-Dimensional) engines causing the craft to vibrate.

"Engines functioning normally," reported Rita.

"Here we go people!" said Richard, his pulse racing. A few seconds later the craft was consumed in an intensely bright light, followed by a low humming noise. The vibrations became so intense that they appeared to disappear. At this point, the light began to dim and the humming started to diminish, while the vibrations intensified again. Suddenly all vibrations ceased.

"Systems check," ordered Richard.

"All systems fully operational," reported Rita.

"Everything is fine here," said Mira, getting up and checking the science station, which was located to the left and back of her co-pilot's seat. "Scans normal."

Mira looked out the viewport. "Nothing looks any different," she said, not really knowing what to expect. But she did expect SOMETHING different--blurring, sparklers, something! Suddenly a wave of dizziness swept over her and he caught the back of her seat to steady herself.

"Oh," she said, almost falling.

Richard was quick to his feet, helping her to return to her chair. "We all went through that the first time out," he said. "It'll pass quickly."

"I certainly hope so," said Mira, already feeling some better.

Richard returned to his seat and checked the readings. "According to these readings we're in dimension 001--our first stop."

"Really?" asked Mira, the dizziness receding. Simon could be here, she thought, hoping it was true.

***********

"Shall we begin?" asked Richard, looking at Mira. "Feeling better?"

"Yes. I'm fine now," replied Mira as she activated the comm system to intercept all Federation communications. They would stay where they were and monitor the comm traffic in order to get a 'feel' for dimension 001, to see just how close it was to their own. After two hours they had discovered quite a lot.

"This dimension appears to be pretty much like our own," said Mira, getting up and stretching her muscles.

"Yes. At least we know there IS a Starfleet and at the present time, there is no war going on anywhere. That is very good," said Richard. "Now, Mira, it's up to you."

"Excuse me, Dr. Montgomery," said Rita, "but I was wondering why Commander McRaney was taken in the first place. I mean no offense, but he's not a Captain or security chief or anything like that, so why would anyone want to kidnap a geologist?" Rita had been informed of their mission, but did not know all the particulars.

"The Mira who kidnapped Simon obviously wanted him and nothing else. She came into DS13 and took him very quickly, so she must have known where he was at that precise time."

"Yes," said Richard, "she must be from a dimension very close to ours in order to know that Simon was on DS13 at that time. Or else she had been searching for a very long time."

"Hmmm. I hadn't thought of that," said Mira. "But let's say the first alternative is the correct one--she is from a dimension very close to ours."

"All right. So, she comes here in order to kidnap Simon McRaney. Why?" asked Richard.

"Obviously because she doesn't have one of her own," said Rita. "Or, maybe she lost the one she had?"

"Exactly," said Mira. "Her Simon is dead! That HAS to be it!"

"Then all we have to do is find a universe in which a Simon McRaney is dead who has a wife or girlfriend by the name of Miranda Montgomery," said Richard.

"I hope it's that simple," said Mira, " but somehow I doubt it. I think the Mira who took Simon must be in terrible grief to have done something like this. She thinks she can turn my Simon into her Simon."

"How do we find him then?" asked Rita.

"She would take him somewhere sparsely populated," said Mira. "And of course she would have him sedated."

"How do you know that?" asked Richard.

"Because it's something I would do," she said. "I mean, if I were that grief stricken and unbalanced," she frowned.

Mira sat at the science station terminal. "Computer, link with Intergalactic Personal Directory," she ordered.

"Link established," came the computer's voice. Please input name or names you desire to locate."

"Locate Simon Augustus McRaney and Miranda Sabra Montgomery."

"Working," came the computer's calm voice. "There is no listing for Miranda Sabra Montgomery. Simon Augustus McRaney is listed at Starfleet, USS Antares."

"Hmmm. No listing for me huh?" whispered Mira.

"Let me try something," said Richard, getting up and coming to the science station beside Mira.

"Computer, link with Intergalactic Deceased Personal Directory," he said as Mira glanced at him.

"Link established. Input name or names desired."

"Miranda Sabra Montgomery," said Richard.

"Dr. Miranda Sabra Montgomery McRaney died on Stardate 49803.15 while engaging the Khynah aboard Relay Communications Station #249. She was assigned to the USS Endeavour. For further information on Dr. McRaney, see Starfleet Database or Earth Personnel Database."

"It's kind of unnerving to see yourself listed as dead," said a quiet Mira.

Richard turned to her. "Did you fight the Khynah at that station, Mira?"

"Yes," she said softly as memories she would rather forget came flooding back. "I guess Simon wasn't there to save me this time."

"What happened? We heard little of all the Khynah activities being so far out," asked Rita, wondering if she was alive in this universe.

"My team entered a part of the station and engaged the Khynah. We lost. One of them grabbed me and threw me up against a wall, preparing to shoot me. Just before he could, Simon came in and killed him. I was seconds away from death," she shuddered, wrapping her arms around herself.

Richard wanted to take her in his arms and tell her that he would never let anything hurt her again, but instead said, "I guess this means that the Mira who kidnapped your husband didn't come from this dimension."

"Maybe, " said Mira, " but I need to make sure that this Simon is not MY Simon. We don't know what went on here. That other Mira might have been here and left Simon or any number of possibilities."

"That's not likely," said Richard. There would be no reason for her to come to a dimension where another Simon already exists."

"Still, I need to make sure that this dimension's Simon is not my Simon."

"There's no point in doing that Mira. We would just be wasting our time."

"Then we will waste time!" said Mira, getting angry. "If our positions were reversed, would you leave here without knowing for sure if this was YOUR Karen for instance?"

Richard knew when he was beat. She wasn't going to give in on this one, he knew! Maybe she had a point though. "Okay, it's your mission. Where do we go from here?"

"You send a message to the Antares--to Simon. Tell him you're an old friend of mine and just got back in this sector. If it's my Simon, I will know by his voice and manner. He may already be convinced he's someone else, but I'll know if it's him anyway."

"Okay," said Richard, preparing to send the message.

"The USS Antares is currently out of range for simultaneous communications," said the computer. "You may leave a message to be forwarded."

"Damn!" said Mira. "And we can't use my Starfleet codes to find out where the Antares is either. Not without sending up a red flag, since a dead woman would not be needing codes."

"What about Simon's codes? Do you know them?" asked Rita.

"Yes! I can use his. That might cause confusion if anyone bothered to check, but at least it won't pull up any red flags."

"Good thinking, Rita," said Richard, smiling at her. Rita smiled back, wishing he would compliment her more often.

Mira entered Simon's codes and gained access to the Starfleet Database.

"Computer, location of USS Antares," said Mira.

"The USS Antares is currently located in the Riyares System."

"Now, let's make sure Simon is still on board," said Mira. "Location of Lt. Cmdr. Simon McRaney."

"Lt. Cmdr. Simon McRaney is currently on leave of absence."

"Location," said Mira.

"Unknown," responded the computer.

"That's just great!" said Mira. She thought in silence for a few moments, then nodded. "Locate last known use of credit chip for Lt. Cmdr. Simon McRaney."

"Lt. Cmdr. Simon McRaney's credit chip was last accessed on Stardate 49808.15 on Pandora Prime."

"Great!" said Mira. "Setting a course for Pandora Prime."

"Hold it!" said Richard. "Do you know what Pandora Prime is?"

"No, why? I imagine it's some sort of colony," said Mira.

"It's one of the worst places in the entire Galaxy! At least in our own universe it is."

"What do you mean?"

"I mean it's a prime location for the dregs of the universe. Pirates, smugglers, thieves, all sorts of not very pleasant characters trade there."

"Really? Then what is Simon doing on a planet like that? You see Richard, he could be MY Simon after all. Maybe he went there to try and find a way back to his own dimension."

"You're grasping for straws, Mira. You know that's not likely. But, if that is where you want to go, then that's where we'll go."

"Cheer up Richard," said Mira, "you said you wanted to get to know this universe, didn't you?"

"Yes, but I meant the NICE parts!"

---------------------------------

Pandora Prime was mostly a desert planet with few oceans or rivers. It was dusty and brown with winds constantly blowing the dirt and grit onto and into every living thing. There were few trees or bushes to stop the strong breezes. Oh yes, it was hot and dry most of the time, except for the rainy season which lasted one month each year. During this time the planet was turned into one large mud pie. Not a nice place to live or even visit.

The largest settlement was a town with 175 permanent residents--this number fluctuating frequently as life was not highly valued on the planet.

Pandora's Box was the place to which anyone who had business on Pandora came. It consisted of a hotel with bars, gambling rooms, and one restaurant. Unless you were starving, you really wouldn't want to eat there.

Mira and Richard decided to come in disguises while Rita stayed aboard the 'Wind', monitoring their progress through their comm badges which they kept hidden on their belts. If any real trouble broke out, she would be able to beam them up quickly.

Mira wore skintight, leather pants, a sleeveless leather vest and knee high black boots. She had a knife hidden in her boot, just in case. Black gloves and a short-cropped blond wig completed her ensemble.

Richard wore black jeans, brown boots and brown leather vest with no shirt. He wore a shoulder length black wig and black gloves. They both looked like disreputable characters. In other words, they fit right in.

"Richard, who chose these outfits," asked Mira, feeling uncomfortable showing so much cleavage and curves.

Richard grinned, "I did," he said, looking her over appreciatively.

"I thought so," she sighed.

Mira and Richard transported down into the main lobby of the hotel, which consisted of a long desk sitting to the back of the room, directly across from the entranceway. To the right of the desk was a turbolift with two closed doors to the left. To the left of the entranceway was an opened doorway to one of the many gambling areas and bars in the complex.

"Let's go," said Richard as he headed into the bar and gambling area. The place was filled with many aliens and Terrans. The air was stale with the smell of numerous sweaty bodies, and the laughter was loud. There were Dabo and pool tables, Dom jot tables and many other gambling tables that were unfamiliar to Mira and Richard. The long bar was set to the left of the entranceway. Both walked over to the bar and ordered.

"Earth beer," ordered Mira.

"Klingon Blood Wine," ordered Richard.

The Bajoran male bartender placed their drinks before them and entered the amount in his credit slip. Richard paid with slips of latinum he carried.

"Do you see him?" asked Richard.

Leaning against the bar, Mira quickly glanced over the large, crowded room, searching for a familiar face. "No, not yet. Let's move around the room."

"All right. But be careful. This is a dangerous bunch," whispered Richard.

"I can handle myself," she said, taking her drink and moving away from the bar.

He watched the pair as they entered the bar. The woman looked familiar somehow, although through his bloodshot and bleary eyes, it was a wonder he could see them at all. The man he didn't know. What did they want in this hellhole he wondered.

He poured the last of the whiskey into his glass. When he finished this glass, he would actually have to move in order to get more as this dump didn't have servers. Damn. He had been comfortable sitting here in his own corner of the world--thinking and feeling nothing.

Mira took a good gulp of her beer--her usual way of sipping at her drink didn't seem appropriate here. They made their way through the crowded bar to an empty table against the back wall and sat down. Mira pulled the drink to her lips and looked over the rim of her glass at the room again. She saw no one resembling Simon.

"He's not here," she said, suddenly feeling depressed.

"Are you sure?"

"There's no one who even slightly resembles him."

"Mira, did it ever occur to you that he may not look the same as when you last saw him? If he's in this place, it's a sure bet that he's not at his best, you know. Try looking though different eyes. Try to picture him as someone down on his luck--someone in need of rescuing."

She carefully looked around the room again. There were plenty of men who looked like they needed help, but no one so much as . . ."

"Richard. That man in the corner!" Mira's heart started pounding with excitement.

"Where?"

"The one with the long shaggy hair and beard. He's dressed in jeans, denim jacket and cowboy boots. I think that's Simon."

"Him?" Richard looked at Mira and then back at the stranger. Somehow he couldn't picture Mira with this man. "Okay, let's go see if it's Simon."

The two started to get up when a group of four large, disreputable looking males came over to their table.

"Hey, man. How about sharing your woman with us?" said one. He was a large, muscular bald man dressed in jeans, and a dirty tee shirt. He appeared to be Terran.

"No." stated Richard flatly, trying to press his way past them, hoping they would go away. Another smaller man grabbed Mira, pinning her arms behind her.

"I think your woman likes us," he said, grinning lasciviously at Mira, and sniffing at her hair.

"Listen . . . began Richard.

Mira spoke quickly. "Wait," she said, leaning back against the man suggestively. "I think we can spare a few . . . minutes."

"Oh . . . okay. Whatever you want Babe," said Richard, backing up to his seat. As he was preparing to sit, Mira made her move. She stomped the foot of the man holding her, causing him to loosen his grip. Mira twisted out of his grasp then came up with her right elbow to his face. He released her. She kicked out at another man with her left foot, catching him in his groin. He went down groaning.

Richard meanwhile grabbed the beer mug and smashed it into the nearest guy's face, then flat palmed him in the nose.

The last man came at Richard with a knife, catching him in the right side. Richard went down.

"Richard!" Mira shouted, rushing over to him. Before she could reach him the man turned, swinging the knife at her. As she was watching him, the first man she fought grabbed her from behind again.

"You're coming with us now!" he shouted.

Mira heard the smashing of the bottle on the man's head and felt shards of glass and beer hitting her shoulders as he released her and slid to the ground. She turned around and saw the stranger standing over the man.

The guy with the knife rushed at her and before she could react, the stranger shoved her out of the way, intercepting the man's lunge. They wrestled a few seconds and then the man went down, his own knife protruding from his ribs.

The stranger turned to Mira as he looked around at the other patrons in the bar who had stopped their activities in order to watch the fight.

"We'd better get you and your friend out of here, before more of their friends decide to join in," he said, making his way over to Richard who lay on the floor in a heap.

Mira and the stranger quickly each took Richard's arms and helped him stand.

"I hope you have a fast ship ready," the stranger said.

"I do," said Mira, as others in the room were coming a little too close for comfort. "Rita, three to beam up," she shouted.

As the three materialized on the 'Wind', Rita came running up to them. "What happened? I heard what sounded like a fight."

"It WAS a fight," said Mira. "Richard's hurt. Let's get him to the sofa. I'll need my medkit."

"I'll get it," said Rita, taking the lift down to get Mira's medkit from her room as she and the stranger laid Richard onto the sofa.

"Are you a doctor?" asked the stranger.

"Yes. My name's Mira Montgomery and this is Richard Stevens."

The man didn't hear the last part of her sentence as he stood still, staring down at Mira, watching as she tended to Richard. He slowly stepped back from her, running his hands through his hair. "This can't be! Mira's dead."

Mira looked up at the stranger. "Simon?"

At this moment, Rita came running back into the room with the medkit.

As Mira attended to Richard's wound, Simon stood still just watching her work, his eyes filling with tears. When she finished she stood up and was suddenly enveloped in a very tight hug.

"Oh my God! Mira! It really is you! My darling, my love. What happened? Why did you let me think you were dead? He took her face in his hands and kissed her and kept kissing her until she pulled away, breathless.

"Wait! Stop," she said. "Answer one question, please."

"Anything darling."

"When did Mira die?"

"What? You're Mira. What do you mean?"

"Please Simon. When did Mira die?"

Confused he answered. "On Stardate 49803.15 on Relay Comm Station 249. But that can't be . . . "

"Please, come and sit down and I'll explain everything," she said taking his hand in hers, as Rita now attended to Richard's flesh wound.

"Then, my Mira really is dead," Simon stated flatly, after Mira explained everything. They immediately left Pandora Prime just in case anyone cared to come after them.

"I'm afraid so," she said as she pulled off her wig, shaking her hair out.

Simon looked up at her and smiled. "I'm glad you still have long dark hair. I always loved your . . . I'm sorry, I mean HER hair." He leaned back in his chair, shaking his head.

"This is all so confusing," he said.

"Yes, I know. We hadn't planned on telling you anything," said Mira. "I just wanted to see if you were MY Simon before we moved onto another dimension."

"Simon," said Mira softly, "what happened? Why were you on Pandora Prime? And why ---," she glanced at his disheveled clothing.

"Am I in such a sorry shape?" he finished.

Mira nodded.

"It was Mira's death. Everything died with her on that station. If I'd only been there she would still be alive. I know it!" He took a deep breath, then continued. "Were you on that station in your universe?"

"Yes."

"Did I . . . did Simon save you there?"

Mira knew that to tell this man that his parallel self had indeed saved her life would add to his misery and to his guilt. Knowing that had he been there for his Mira she might still be alive in this universe.

"No," she lied, "it was different in my universe. My team never encountered the Khynah on the station. We got in and rescued several people then returned to the Endeavour. My team was never in any real danger."

"I'm glad. Then maybe it wouldn't have made any difference had I been there."

"It wouldn't have," said Mira, putting her arm around his shoulders. "I'd better check on Richard now," she said, getting up. Thank you for what you did back there."

Simon smiled. "You're welcome. I guess I'm not totally useless after all."

Mira wanted more than anything to take this man in her arms --to kiss him and love him. But this was not her Simon. She must remember that as hard as it would be. Never the less, a quick hug wouldn't hurt anything. She hugged him and then quickly pulled away, before he could respond. It would be too easy to get caught up in emotions right now and that would not be good for either of them.

"Listen, you might want to shower and change clothes," she said. "Rita will show you to your quarters if you like."

"Yes. I think that would be a good idea." He looked down at his dirty, rumpled clothes. "But I left everything I own back on Pandora Prime."

"Oh, no problem. We have a replicator you can use. You don't think this is how I usually dress do you?" she smiled.

"I wouldn't know, but it's not bad, really," he smiled.

"Are you kidding? Not my style. I prefer something less . . ." she quickly glanced down at her exposed bosom, " . . . black."

"Pity," said Simon, looking appreciatively at her figure.

Mira turned quickly away, blushing. "I'll see you later," she called over her shoulder as she headed toward Richard.

Simon slowly awoke to Mira's smiling face bending over him. "Mira, what happened?" "You're finally awake, good. There was an accident in the lab and you were hurt. You've been unconscious for two weeks my love. But you'll be fine now." "What, what lab? What are you talking about, Mira? I was in a shuttlecraft with . . ." Simon's eyes focused more clearly on the woman he at first believed was his wife. "You're not my wife! Where's Mira? he shouted, trying to rise up out of the bed. "Shush, honey. You're not completely healed yet. You will be a little confused at first. Please try and relax sweetheart. "No! My head!" Simon's efforts to get up left him with a terrible headache and extreme dizziness. "You have a head injury Simon. Please be still and I'll explain everything." Having no choice, as he was terribly weak, Simon sank back into his pillows. "Explain," he said weakly. Miranda smoothed the hair from his eyes. "Two weeks ago we were working in the lab when there was an overload in one of the circuits causing an explosion. You were in its wake, which left you with a concussion. But that's not all. You were caught between dimensions for several minutes. You were fazing in and out of this and another dimension. This has caused a neural dimensional displacement in your temporal lobe." "What does that mean?" "It means that for awhile you were living in another dimension--another life. Your memories are probably all mixed up. That's normal for what you have been through and the memories will fade over time. There was also some neural memory loss, which means you may not remember your life here. Hopefully that will return and I'll help you all I can of course." "My memory is fine!" said Simon. "I am Lt. Cmdr. Simon McRaney and my wife is Dr. Mira Montgomery, Chief Medical Officer of the USS Alliance. We are both Starfleet Officers and are on leave at Deep Space 13. Miranda sighed and sadness showed in her eyes. "Sweetheart," Miranda began gently, "those memories are from another dimension. That is not who you are. You are Dr. Simon McRaney, Scientist and I am your wife, Dr. Miranda McRaney of the Daystrome Institute. We are conducting experiments in inter-dimensional travel. Do you remember anything about our life," she asked hopefully. ********

Mira got Richard settled in for the night with a shot of painkillers and a sedative. While his wound was deep, the knife didn't hit any organs and Richard would be fine, if a little sore, for the next two days.

Mira sat in the pilot's chair, her legs pulled up, arms around them, thinking. She was too keyed up to sleep so decided to take this watch for the next six hours at which time, Rita would take over. She noticed how, while Rita appeared to be all business, underneath it all, she was a very emotional woman--one who was deeply in love with Richard. She also knew that Richard had no idea of Rita's feelings.

"Excuse me."

Mira turned around, dropping her feet to the floor and faced a freshly showered and newly dressed Simon. He had replicated himself a pair of blue jeans and short sleeved light blue shirt. Something her own Simon would wear. He still had his long hair, mustache and cowboy boots, however.

"Hi. Well, you certainly look better," said Mira.

"Thanks to your facilities and replicator." The silence between them was awkward. "Could I speak with you for a few moments?" he asked.

"Sure." Mira entered a few instructions into the control panel and got up from her chair. "Let's talk over here, it's more comfortable." She indicated the sitting area where the sofa was located. Mira sat on the sofa and motioned for Simon to sit at the other end.

"This is so strange," he began, "seeing you here, alive."

"Yes, I know the feeling."

"I must admit, I'm curious. What is your life like in your dimension?"

"I was about to ask you the same thing," smiled Mira.

"There's not much to know," said Simon. "I joined Starfleet at 16, graduated four years later. I met Mira on Betazed while my ship was docked there. She was attending medical school. We fell in love and married one year later. We were happily married until . . ."

"Yes. I'm sorry for your loss. Simon and I met while serving aboard the Enterprise. I studied on Betazed, but I didn't meet Simon at that time. Do you have any children?"

"No. Mira and I never had children. Our careers maybe got in the way or, I'm not sure to tell you the truth why we never had children. Do you have children?"

"No. Simon and I have been married less than two years. We haven't really talked about it much. Simon has a grown son by his first marriage though. His name is Parker and he has a daughter so Simon and I are grandparents."

Simon smiled. A son? Who did I . . .I mean, who did Simon marry the first time?"

"She was a geologist he met while at the Academy. Her name was---"

"Sara Henderson?"

"Yes. How did you know?"

"I almost married her myself until I caught her with a friend of mine. She broke my heart. Were she and Simon happily married?"

"For a few years, yes. He said they weren't getting along at the time of her death. He suspected she was having an affair."

"Death?"

"Yes, she died on Coridan II in a mining accident."

"Then I suppose I was lucky in a way to not marry her after all. Is Simon a good husband and father?"

"Oh yes, a wonderful husband, father and grandfather. And a good Starfleet Commander."

"Commander huh? I thought about trying out for Commander, but decided against it. I'm glad I made it at least in one dimension," he laughed.

His laughter sounded so familiar. "Simon's just recently accomplished that feat. Are you're parents still living?"

"No. My father died six years ago of an illness while mother died six months later. I think she died of a broken heart to tell you the truth. They were very close."

"Then you don't have any family?"

"Not any close relatives. Uncles, aunts, cousins, but no one I'm close to. When Mira died, I lost everything, everything," he sighed.

Not knowing what to say, Mira said nothing.

"Mira, take me with you."

"What?" Where?"

"Take me with you to that other universe. The one where Mira's Simon is dead. I have nothing and no one here---no reason to stay---no reason to live!"

"Simon! I can't do that. You belong here, in this universe. There could be untold of complications if you left. You know that!"

"No, there won't be. He shifted in his seat, not wanting to admit his weakness, but having no choice. "I was going to kill myself before you walked into that bar. I was planning on getting into a serious fight and being killed. So you see, I have no future here, Mira. None at all."

Mira looked deep into his eyes and knew he was telling the truth. She couldn't believe what she was hearing. This was not like her Simon at all. But then, HER Simon hadn't lost HER, had he? "Simon, I don't know what to say."

"Say yes. Look, I know that I'm not that other Mira's Simon, but I have to believe that we're similar enough to our other selves to be able to make a living together. It can't be as difficult as being without each other."

"But I don't even know if we can find that universe. What if we can't? What happens to you then? You can't live in a universe where there's already a Simon McRaney."

"Then bring me back here or another universe. I don't care! But at least give me this chance to have Mira again. Please!"

Mira got up off the sofa and began to pace. Simon smiled at her. "My Mira used to pace whenever she had an important decision to make too."

"I'll have to talk with Richard about this. He's in charge of this project."

"Oh, I didn't realize that. I thought you were."

"Yes, well, I'll talk to him tomorrow, but I can't promise anything."

Simon jumped to his feet and embraced her. "Thank you!" He pulled back and was going to kiss her, but she pulled away from him. It was too easy to let her emotions control her. After all, this WAS Simon---sort of.

"I think you had better get some rest. I need to get back to the controls."

"Of course. I am feeling rather fatigued. Goodnight Mira," he smiled. "It's been a long time since I've said that. It feels good."

"Goodnight, swee---Simon." Mira almost fell into the habit of endearments, but luckily caught herself in time.

"Goodnight, my love," Simon whispered under his breath. "Sleep safely."

---------

"Are you crazy!" yelled Richard, the next day after Mira finished telling him of Simon's request.

"Keep your voice down! These walls aren't sound proof . . . are they?" asked Mira. She and Richard were in his quarters.

"No, they aren't. And you know we can't take someone from this universe---"

"Look Richard," said Mira, cutting him off. "I've thought long and hard about this and I agree with Simon. He's going to be out of this universe one way or the other. It makes no difference now."

"How do you know he wasn't just lying about taking his own life?"

"I looked into his eyes. I know."

"How can you say that? You don't know this man, Mira! He is NOT your Simon."

"You don't have to remind me of that, Richard! I KNOW that. But I still agree with him."

"And just how is he going to explain this to his Captain? 'Oh, Captain, I decided to hitch a ride to another dimension with my dead wife's double?'

"He won't have to say anything. He will simply disappear."

"You are not thinking straight on this Mira. Starfleet will send out a search party for him and the bartender on Pandora Prime will say the last time he saw Simon, he was with two surly looking humanoids--a Bajoran woman and Terran male. What if during that search someone should get killed who wouldn't have if he stayed and---"

"Committed suicide?" finished Mira.

"Yes."

"Then he'll send a message to Starfleet, resigning. Simple."

"Simple or not this is my project and I say no."

Mira stiffened. "We're taking him and that's an order, Lieutenant!"

"You're pulling RANK on me? After I agreed to let you come along! I can't believe this!"

"Believe it. End of discussion. After Simon sends his message to Starfleet, I'm setting a course back to our jump point, and then we'll search Dimension 002. And, I do appreciate your letting me come along, Richard, but this is the right thing to do. " Mira turned to leave.

"Yes SIR!" called Richard. After she left he threw his shoes against the wall. "Damn! I knew I should have put in for that Commander training! At least then, she wouldn't outrank me!"

Mira found Simon sitting in the living area at the table composing his resignation letter to Starfleet. "So, how did he take it?" he asked.

"He's fine with it," Mira lied, smiling.

"Right," said Simon, grinning, knowing also when this Mira was not telling the complete truth.

________

It took two days for them to reach their interdimensional jump point. During this time, Richard watched Mira and Simon grow closer together---looking through the holopics which Mira brought with her and both telling of their various lives. Finally they reached their destination. Mira took her seat in the pilot's chair with Richard to her right. Rita was at her regular station while Simon took a seat at the science station, happy to be able to contribute something positive.

"Are you sure you want to continue your search?" whispered Richard.

"What do you mean?" asked Mira.

"It seems you and Simon, I mean THIS Simon have grown close over the last few days. I thought maybe . . . "

"Jealous?"

"No, I'm not," Richard answered, just a little too quickly.

"Then stop asking stupid questions," said Mira. "Dimension 002, locked in," she said.

"System check," ordered Richard.

"All system go," answered Rita.

"Sensors showing no objects within our wave range," said Mira.

"Science station functioning normally," said Simon.

"All right, everyone," said Richard, "here we go."

Richard activated the interdimensional jump and the Celestial Wind began to vibrate as a bright light enveloped the craft as it had on their first trip. After the light faded and the vibrations ceased, Mira checked the sensors.

"Sensors show---"

Suddenly the craft rocked violently from side to side. "What is it?" asked Richard, grabbing his control panel to keep from being thrown out of his seat.

"Are we being attacked?" asked Rita.

"Sensors are off line!" shouted Mira as the craft tumbled over and over and was tossed around like a leaf in the wind. If not for the artificial gravity, all would have been thrown all over the cabin!

Mira was thrown out of her chair, hitting the floor hard. Richard was slammed into the console, injuring his wrist while Simon and Rita managed to hold onto their consoles and remain seated.

The lights flickered off and on and then died completely, leaving the red emergency lights as their only illumination.

The sound of crackling equipment filled the air and the acrid smell of smoke wafted through the cabin as Mira and Richard frantically tried to gain control of the ship.

"Computer, damage report!" shouted Mira when the ship slowed it's tumbling and spinning. Simon left his station to help her up into her seat. The computer was silent.

"Manual override!" she yelled. "We've got to stabilize the ship!"

"I've got it!" said Richard as he managed to hit the inertial dampeners and stop them from being thrown about the cabin.

Mira checked the sensors and looked out the viewport. "What is that!" she yelled, noticing a large brightly lit, red and blue cloud of what looked like smoke.

"It looks like a plasma storm," said Simon.

"Damn! I thought we couldn't land on anything. What went wrong?" asked Mira.

"Nothing went wrong," said Rita. "This is energy. We can't land in any solid area, but this is pure energy and not mass."

"Computer report," said Mira.

"It's off line," said Rita. "Along with most of our systems."

"Science sensors off line," reported Simon. "No wait! I've got one back now. Yes, it's definitely a plasma storm."

"What systems DO we have?" asked Richard.

"Minimal life support and impulse engines--not much else," replied Rita. "We're going to have to land to make repairs and the closest place is Delcor III."

"How long will it take with impulse engines?" asked Mira.

"Years," said Richard, "if we can't get our warp engines back on line."

"I think I can get them working, sir," said Rita, "with help."

"I'll help," said Simon.

"Good," said Mira.

"The only thing is," said Richard, "even if we make it to Delcor III, we don't know what we'll find, if anything. There may not be a base there in this universe."

"Looks like we don't' have much of a choice," said Mira.

"I'm afraid we have a more immediate problem," said Rita.

"What?" asked Richard.

"Our life support is damaged. It appears we have only enough oxygen left for 48 hours."

"Can't you repair it?" asked Mira.

"Not without a transducer coil conduit. It's completely shot."

"Great!" said Mira. "What else?"

A few hours later, Rita and Simon finished their repairs on the warp engines. Unfortunately they were not able to repair the interdimensional Engine as the flux capacitor was fused and needed replacing.

"Great," said Mira, throwing her hands up in frustration. "How are we going to find a part for a ship that probably doesn't exist in this dimension?"

"We don't have to," said Rita, "I can modify a standard capacitor to fit the engine."

"Then I guess our best bet is still to head for Delcor III. Maybe there's some kind of station or base there," said Mira.

"Yes, but that still leaves us with one little problem---the life support system. At maximum warp we will arrive on Delcor III in 27 hours. We only have enough oxygen left for 22 hours," said Richard. That leaves us without oxygen for five hours. Now, I don't know about you, but I can't hold my breath THAT long!"

"Hmmm. I don't suppose you have any stasis chambers aboard?" asked Mira.

"Nope," said Richard.

"Damn! So close." Mira paced the cabin. "Richard, can you make it where when we arrive on Delcor III, the ship can land and open it's doors to allow the intake of oxygen?"

"Yes, but what good will that do if we're all dead five hours before we land?"

"I have an idea . . . " said Mira.

___________

"Incoming unidentified craft, sir," said Lieutenant Rogers.

"Hail them," ordered Commander Richard Stevens.

"No response, sir."

"Lifesigns?"

"Four, but they're faint. Humanoid."

"Very well. When it comes into range, tractor it into Shuttle Bay 3."

"Yes sir."

The 'Celestial Wind' glided to a halt inside of shuttle bay three of the Starfleet Field Base on Delcor III. It was surrounded by armed security guards as the door opened automatically.

"Scans?" asked Commander Stevens.

"All negative," replied Lt. Rogers. "It's safe to enter. Lifesigns are still minimal."

"Let's go," he said entering the craft. Immediately inside the doorway were four bodies. A med team quickly rushed to each individual, scanning with tricorders.

"Commander," said medtech 1," they appear to be in a drug induced coma."

"No signs of attack or struggle, Commander," reported the head of the Security team.

"Get them to the Infirmary and check out their computer logs. We need to know who these people are and where they are from," said Commander Stevens. "We can't afford to take any chances that these people are spies."

"Sir!" yelled medtech 2. "I think you'll want to see this."

Commander Stevens walked over to where the medtech was crouched beside one of the comatose patients.

"What the . . ." he said, looking closely at the face of the patient.

"He looks exactly like you, sir!"

Stevens hesitated for only a moment. "No one is to mention this to anyone until I know what is going on. Cover his face before he is removed and isolate him in the Infirmary. We don't need any more confusion around here right now."

"Yes, sir."

________

One hour later

"So, Doctor Montgomery?" asked Commander Richard Stevens as he stood beside her biobed with a padd in his hand.

Mira was still not free of the heavy dose of melorazine she had administered to herself and the others. It had slowed down their respiratory systems and as a result their consumption of oxygen was greatly decreased allowing them to make the limited supply last long enough to arrive on Delcor III.

"Richard?" she spoke groggily.

"I am Commander Richard Stevens. Can you tell me, Doctor, how you can be Mira Montgomery when she is currently located elsewhere?" If these people were spies, he didn't want to give them any more information than was absolutely necessary, although he knew instinctively that they posed no security risks.

Mira realized that this was not the Richard she knew. Of course! They were still in the other universe. " Where are my friends?" Equally careful with her information, Mira needed to know more about these people before she told them her entire story.

"They are resting comfortably. We checked your craft and have determined that you were sedated to conserve oxygen?"

"That's correct. Our ship was damaged in a plasma storm."

"Doctor, when you and your friends are recovered, I will need to talk with you further."

"Understood."

_______

Mira sat at a large rectangular conference table with Simon, Richard, Rita, Commander Stevens and Lieutenant Rogers two hours later. The melorazine had been flushed from their systems, and all were fine except for a slight feeling of grogginess.

"So, you're telling me that you're from another dimension?" asked Commander Stevens after Mira had determined who they were through her tricorder scans.

"Yes and a quantum signature scan will confirm that." She then went on to explain how Simon had been kidnapped and she was searching for him.

"This is incredible!" said Lt. Rogers. "We're not even close to interdimensional travel!"

"This is our first extended trip," said Richard. "It's still experimental where we come from."

"So, what you need from us is equipment to repair your ship?" asked Commander Stevens.

"Yes. Then we can continue our search," said Mira. "I need to find my husband and return to our own dimension as soon as possible."

"I think we can help you," said Stevens. "And I am hoping that you can help us as well."

"How?" asked Richard, feeling strange talking to himself face to face. Did he really look that old?

"We are currently in a war with the Khynah, Cardassians, and Romulans," began Commander Stevens.

Rita let out an audible gasp.

Commander Stevens glanced at her and continued. "We don't have much data on the Khynah and I'm hoping that you may have more than we do. Am I correct in that assumption?"

"Unfortunately we don't know a whole lot either," said Mira,' "but we have been to their homeworld and did captured a Khynah at one time. Might this help?"

Commander Stevens's eyes lit up. "Yes. That is much more data than we have now."

"Great," said Mira. "Then I suggest while your people help with the repairs of our ship, I will fill you in on the information I have on the Khynah."

"Excellent," said Stevens. "Let's get started, " he said, standing up. Mira and the others stood as well.

"Fine. Tell me Commander," said Mira as they walked together out the door of the conference room, "this base seems to be far away from the Federation and Khynah---too far to effectively launch attacks. So why here?"

"Yes, that's true. Our base is used for intelligence gathering and reconnaissance. We have shuttles out around the clock listening in on all transmissions and tracking any ships that come into this area. We're kind of behind the scenes so to speak."

"Ah," she said. "I'm curious Commander. You mentioned another Mira Montgomery?"

"Yes. Captain Montgomery is in command of the USS Galway."

"A medical ship," said Mira, thinking what it would be like to command an entire ship.

"No. The Galway is not a medical ship, but a battle ship. Our Mira Montgomery is her Captain. When the Romulans joined the Khynah and Cardassians, Starfleet called all command officers into leadership positions as they quickly became scarce. We have been in this war for a little over one year already and have lost many ship's captains. We have science, engineering, security and even medical officers taking command of ships now. So far it's working quite well."

"I'm curious," spoke Simon, who was close behind the two, "do you know of my counterpart?"

"No, I'm sorry I don't. But I could check it out for you," said Stevens. "If it's not classified that is."

"Thank you," said Simon.

"I guess I already know what my other self is doing in your universe," said the Commander, taking a glance back at Richard.

"Yes, " said Mira, "He's a very good scientist and doctor."

"Interesting," said Stevens. "I was always interested in the sciences, but chose command instead.

"Isn't it," said Richard, thinking that he had considered command at one time himself.

___________

Three hours later Mira had filled Commander Stevens in on all the data she had on the Khynah and in return he had his engineers help repair the Celestial Wind.

"Thank you, commander," said Mira. "We will be on our way now. I want to find Simon as soon as possible."

"I understand," said Stevens, "and thank you for the Khynah information. I think it will be helpful to us. I just wish you could stay. We need all the Commanders we can get--and ships."

"I'm afraid the 'Celestial Wind' wouldn't be much help to you, Commander, " said Richard. "She has minimal phaser weapons and no torpedoes."

"And I think that two Mira Montgomerys in one universe is one too many," smiled Mira.

"We could use her anyway, but thank you again. When you leave, watch your sensors carefully. We've had sporadic activity in this area from Khynah scout ships."

"Will do," said Mira, as she headed towards their craft.

------------------------------

"All systems a go," said Rita.

"Good. Let's go then," said Mira as she and Richard guided the ship off planet and away from the area.

"Long range scanners detect nothing," reported Simon.

"Good, just keep an eye out. We don't need anymore damage," said Mira. "Maximum warp."

Several hours later.

"Spatial disturbance at edge of long range scans," reported Simon. "In front and behind us."

"Cloaked ships?" asked Mira.

"Could be," said Simon.

"We're only one hour from our jump point," began Mira, "let's proceed and keep an eye on those disturbances."

"Aye, sir," said Simon, smiling. It felt good to be taking orders again, especially from Mira. Even if she isn't exactly my wife, he thought.

The next hour was filled with tension as the anomalies continued to follow them, gaining steadily. Finally they reached their destination point.

"All right, here we go!" said Mira. "On my mark, drop out of warp, raise shields and begin jump sequence."

"Aye sir," responded Rita.

"Ready," replied Richard.

"Mark!" said Mira.

"Khynah vessel decloaking on the port bow!" shouted Simon.

"Weapons locked on us!"

"Two minutes from jump," said Richard.

"They're preparing to fire!" shouted Simon.

"90 seconds to jump," said Richard.

"Another ship decloaking aft," said Simon. "It's firing!"

"Evasive maneuvers!" shouted Mira.

The first shot just missed the 'Celestial Wind'.

"Thirty seconds to jump."

"Keep it going!" shouted Mira.

"Ten seconds to jump," said Richard.

"Five seconds."

"Both ships firing!" shouted Simon. "Torpedoes on direct line!"

"Hold on!" said Mira.

"Initiating jump engine." The Celestial Wind jumped just as the Khynah's photon torpedoes reached the ship. The first interdimensional energy wake repulsed the torpedoes, sending them back into the Khynah ships, bombarding their shields, weakening them considerably. The second energy wake smashed into the already weakened shields, tearing their ships apart. The resulting explosion sent tons of debris spinning off into space.

Thanks to the crew of the 'Celestial Wind', there were two less Khynah vessels to prey on the people of this universe.

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

"Miranda," I really feel fine. Just a little sluggish is all," said Simon as he ate his breakfast in the small dining room of their apartments on Xanor II.

"There's no hurry, Simon. It's only been two months. Work can wait until you get your strength back," said Miranda, coming to sit beside him at the table.

"I want to return to work--I NEED to return to work. The only thing is, it's hard to move."

"That's because of the heavier gravity," she explained.

"Gravity? Why would that make any difference to me? I've lived here, what seven years now? At least that's what you tell me."

Miranda realized she had made a mistake and must cover for it or else Simon might start to believe he didn't belong here--which, of course, he didn't.

"Ah, it's because you were in bed for over two weeks, sweetheart. Your muscles are still adjusting is all. It will take awhile longer to recuperate."

"I guess you're right. After all, you ARE the doctor." He said with a wink and a smile.

Miranda loved his smile. She knew she had done the right thing by bringing him here to live with her. He was happy and so was she.

"I still insist on going back to work--to the lab, although it still feels strange."

"In what way?"

"My working on interdimensional travel. Somehow it feels . . .wrong. Like I should be doing something else."

"What else do you think you should be doing?"

"I don't' know, something like archaeology or geology. Something like that."

"Honey, those are your hobbies! That's why this doesn't feel right. You want to get back to your hobbies. You will, in time. I wouldn't worry too much about it."

"My hobbies? Maybe you're right then. Work first, hobbies later," he smiled.

Miranda smiled too. She had successfully diverted another potential disaster. But how long would she be able to do this? Simon couldn't stay on the memory-inhibiting drug forever, or else it would damage his brain. Just a little bit longer, she thought. Then he would be so settled into his new life, that the memories, which might come back, would be of no consequence--she hoped.

"I'll help you remember everything, darling," she said, leaning over and kissing him.

He kissed her in return and gave her a hug. Even this doesn't feel quite right, he thought. But I would never let her know that. I wouldn't want to hurt her feelings. She has taken good care of me since my accident, especially since it was my stupidity that destroyed the lab in the first place! At least that's what Miranda said as he didn't remember the accident--didn't remember much of anything about his and Miranda's life together--at least not the way Miranda says it is and was. He remembered a different life--a different Miranda--a Mira. But Miranda assured him that this was part of the accident, where he had temporarily fused into another life--a parallel lifetime. Now he wasn't sure of anything anymore. Except Miranda's love for him and his love for her. But even that . . .

"All right, sweetie," said Miranda, interrupting his thoughts, "We'll go to the lab after breakfast and begin work."

"Good." Maybe I will start to remember what happened, he thought.

____________

"I hope this is the right damn universe this time!" said Mira as the Celestial Wind stopped its' vibrating, coming to rest in yet another universe.

"What? You don't like traveling?" snipped Richard.

"I want to find Simon and get back to my own life," said Mira. "It's been over two months since he disappeared and I'm tired of traveling.

"I'm enjoying myself," said Richard, "and in the process am accumulating tons of interesting data. I could do this for a living!"

"You DO do this for a living, Richard," said Mira, grimacing at his attempt at humor. These past months had strained her sense of humor and he wasn't helping anything.

"Are we detecting any ships or anomalies," asked Mira.

"Nothing on short or long range sensors," replied Simon. "No spatial anomalies either."

"Okay," said Mira," I'm beginning the Starfleet search for Miranda and Simon."

"I'll check the Civilian Personnel and Daystrome Institute files as well," said Richard.

A few minutes later they discovered that both Miranda and Simon McRaney worked at the Daystrome Institute. Neither was in Starfleet, but had been until two years earlier. They were presently located at the Interdimensional Department of the Daystrome Institute on Xanor II.

"Xanor II," said Mira, remembering the time she spent there.

"What? You don't like the place?" asked Richard.

"It's hot, dusty and muddy during the rainy season. Scorching hot days and freezing cold nights. Not much greenery either. Lost of rocks and dirt. Not my favorite place to be," said Mira. "But, it wasn't all bad," she smiled, thinking of the starry nights and poker games she enjoyed with Simon and her friends while there. "Oh, did I mention the increased gravity?"

"Sounds wonderful," said Richard, sarcastically. "By all means let's get there as soon as possible!"

Rita laughed and Richard winked at her, smiling. They had been spending more time together lately and seemed to be growing closer. Mira was glad for Rita and also for Richard. Everyone should have someone to share his or her life with, she thought. And hopefully she would be getting her someone back soon!

"Entering Xanor II coordinates," said Richard. "We should be there in 12 days at maximum warp."

"Twelve days?" said Mira.

"What, tired of my company already?" quipped Richard.

Simon gave him a sour look. Richard ignored him.

"Just in a hurry as if you didn't know," said Mira.

"Mira," began Simon, "I've been thinking that Miranda must have some way of convincing your Simon to stay with her or else he would be trying to find his way back home. He wouldn't simply give up and decide to have a nice life with her. And the longer he's with her, the longer she has to convince him---"

"That he is really HER husband," Mira finished. She nodded, unable to express her fear in words. What is her Simon was already convinced that he belonged here, with her?

"You're right, Mira. I think it would take an awful lot of convincing for me to believe I belonged in a different dimension than my own," said Simon.

"Well, I wouldn't worry too much, Mira, said Richard, "You're pretty hard to forget," he winked.

Simon was doing all he could not to punch Richard out. Mira is NOT your wife, he kept repeating to himself.

The next twelve days were spent in transit, monitoring the comm channels between starships, freighters, starbases and deep space stations along with many games of poker, which seemed to help everyone's mood.

They discovered that this universe was the closest to their own. There was no war at the moment though tensions were high along the Neutral Zone as it was in Dimension 000--which was the designation of their own universe.

Richard discovered that his double also worked at the Institute with Mira and Simon on Xanor II. He was not married and had no children here.

Simon and Miranda in this universe had been married for 12 years but had no children. Rita discovered she was married to a former fiancée and they had one child, a son. During their voyage each had checked on their alternate selves out of simple curiosity and to help pass the time. It also provided invaluable scientific data for Richard to file away in his report.

"Approaching Xanor II," reported Rita as the 'Celestial Wind' finally arrived at Xanor II.

"Should we go in disguise?" asked Richard.

"No," said Mira. "If this is the Miranda we're looking for, she'll know who we are and why we are here. If not, I am sure that she and Simon will be willing to help us find her. Besides, this is a small branch of the Daystrome Institute--I doubt we could get away with disguises as we did on Pandora Prime."

"Darn!" said Richard. "I was hoping to see you in that outfit again," he smiled.

"Richard---" began Simon, not being able to take his humor any longer.

Mira frowned at Simon and he backed down. She gave Richard a frown too. Richard seemed to enjoy taunting Simon, just a little bit every now and then. Unfortunately, he didn't know when to quit!

"The day I wear that thing again is the day I move to Pandora Prime!" she responded.

"They're hailing us,' said Rita.

"I'll handle this," said Mira. " On screen."

"This is the Daystrome Institute, Xanor branch. Identify yourself," said a familiar voice.

"This is the 'Celestial Wind' and I am Commander Mira Montgomery, we request permission to land."

"'Celestial Wind'. Identify yourself again."

"Xanor II, I am Commander Mira Montgomery, a Starfleet Officer and I wish to speak with Dr. Miranda McRaney immediately."

"One moment." After a few minutes of silence, he returned. "Celestial Wind, you have permission to land at the following coordinates. I think we need to talk, Commander."

"And you are?" asked Mira.

"I am Dr. Richard Stevens. Assistant to Doctors Miranda and Simon McRaney."

"Acknowledged Xanor II. We will be landing in two minutes," said Mira. "Celestial Wind, out."

"Rita, I think it would be best if you and Simon remained on board. We'll keep our communicators open to inform you of what's happening. If there is a problem, you take the ship into orbit immediately, and then beam us out if possible."

"Yes sir," said Rita.

Simon did not like the idea of Mira beaming down with only Richard to protect her, but he had no choice in the matter.

"Welcome to Xanor II, Dr. Montgomery," said Dr. Richard Stevens, as he eyed his double. "This is rather a strange feeling to be seeing my own double right in front of me."

"We know the feeling, Dr. Stevens," said Mira.

"Come, let's talk inside," said Dr. Stevens. "The weather here is much too hot for standing around outside."

"Yes, I am familiar with Xanor weather," said Mira.

"Oh?"

"Yes, I was assigned here for six months last year."

"Really? I was here at that time and I don't remember-"

"It's a long story, Doctor. I'll explain everything once we're out of this heat," said Mira.

"Please follow me then," said Dr. Stevens leading them into a cargo area through corridors and finally into his office. "Please, sit. Would you like anything to drink or eat?"

Mira and Richard sat on chairs in front of Dr. Stevens' desk. "No, thank you, Doctor. I'm really anxious to find out if my husband is here," said Mira as she proceeded to explain everything while taking tricorder scans of this Richard. After their last stop, she didn't want to take any chances on him not being who he appeared to be.

"I understand," he said, after listening to Mira's story. "But I'm afraid the only Simon McRaney we have here is the one who is married to the Director of our division--Dr. Miranda Montgomery. Apparently your double, Doctor."

"I see. But are you sure this Simon is the right one?" asked Mira.

"Excuse me?"

"What I mean is . . .is there any possibility that the Simon here is not the man you think he is. Both are exactly the same, physically, as you have observed with your own double and mine. The only difference would be his experiences and memory. We also believe that Miranda kidnapped my Simon because hers might be dead."

"I can assure you that Simon McRaney is still alive. I'm sure we can clear all this up by talking to both Doctors McRaney. Why don't I call her? Simon is presently recovering from a lab accident and may not be up to seeing you, however."

"An accident?" asked Mira.

"Yes, from what I understand--I was not here at the time--Simon was injured when our first attempt at interdimensional travel went awry."

"When was this?" asked Mira.

"About two and a half months ago."

"That's about the same time that my husband was kidnapped. You say you were not here for your first experiment? Is that standard procedure?"

"It is a bit unusual, but Dr. McRaney--Miranda, is not your usual scientist. She and Simon prefer to work alone at times. I am just their assistant and am not required to be present at every test. But I'm sure that the disappearance of your Simon at the same time as the accident is just a coincidence. I mean, he's not dead, after all."

"I don't believe in coincidences," said Mira. "May I see Dr. Miranda McRaney now?"

"Yes, I'm sure she will be able to put your mind at ease about all this."

"Great. Let's go then," said Richard.

Dr. Stevens led them down more corridors into the private sector of the institute, stopping in front of a door. He touched a panel to the right side.

"Yes?" a voice from inside answered.

"Miranda, it's Richard. I have some visitors here who would like to speak with you. It's very important."

"Very well, come in then."

They entered the livingroom containing a long sofa, two chairs, and desk with terminal and a vid screen on one wall. To the back were glass doors leading to a porch area. The moment Miranda saw Mira, her eyes widened just slightly. Although this could have been due to the fact that she had just come face to face with her own double, Mira knew the truth--that this was the woman who kidnapped Simon!

"What?" she asked, confused.

"I know, I felt the same way," said Dr. Stevens. Miranda, please sit and I will explain. These people are from another dimension . . ."

"Obviously," she said, reaching for the sofa to steady herself as she lowered herself down onto a cushion.

"They are looking for Simon, THEIR Simon. He was kidnapped from their universe about two and a half months ago. They are hoping we can help them locate him."

"This is incredible!" said Miranda. "We haven't even made one trip yet!"

"I've explained that to them Miranda. But they wanted to talk to you just the same."

"I'm sorry, but I can't help you," Miranda said tersely "The only Simon here is MY husband. We've been married for over 12 years and I can assure you that he hasn't left this universe."

"Would you mind if I saw him?" asked Mira. "I would like to make one simple test to determine his quantum signature. I'm sure you know it's a painless and perfectly harmless test," she said.

"I'm sorry, but that won't be possible," said Miranda. "Aside from it being unnecessary, my husband was recently injured in a lab accident and I don't want to upset him with all this talk of doubles and such."

"But Miranda, it's just a simple scan," said Dr. Stevens. "It won't take but a minute. Surely you can't--"

Miranda jumped up from the sofa. "I said, NO! I won't have Simon upset this way. He's been through enough! Now, if you would please leave my home."

Mira expected her to react in exactly this way. It was the way she would have reacted had she been in the same situation. But she wasn't going to leave without Simon, no matter what the cost! "I'm afraid I can't do that, Doctor," said Mira. "Not before I see for myself that your Simon is not my Simon."

"Get out of my home!" Miranda screamed, rushing towards the door. "Now!"

Mira grabbed Miranda's arm. "I didn't come all this way just to be thrown out by you!" her frustration showing.

Just then Simon came in from the porch area. "Miranda, what's going on in here? I can here you---" He froze when he spotted Mira. "Mira?"

Both women turned to him, Mira turning lose of Miranda's arm.

When Mira saw this Simon she knew he was her husband. "Simon!" she said, running to him.

"What? I don't understand," he said, looking from Mira to Miranda and back again several times. Somewhere deep down inside him, he suddenly knew the truth! The woman he knew as Miranda was not his wife. This woman standing in front of him now--her hair--her face--everything felt right about her!

"Mira?" he whispered again.

"Yes, darling!" said Mira beaming with joy, her eyes beginning to water. "It's me--your wife. I've come to take you home."

"No!" screamed Miranda, rushing to them "She's lying! She's here to kidnap you from me! Don't believe anything she tells you!" She went to take his arm, but he kept her at bay.

"Wait. Something isn't right here. He looked to both Richards. Is there a way to sort this out?" he asked.

"Yes," they both said in unison. "Doctor . . ." motioned Richard to his double.

"A simple scan of your quantum signature will determine if you belong in this universe."

"Do it," Simon stated. "Now."

Mira pulled out her tricorder from her medkit and performed the scan. It showed what she expected--that this Simon did not belong in this universe.

"His quantum signature is 0.003% off," stated Mira. "He doesn't belong here."

"Liar!" shouted Miranda. "She could have faked the results. I'll do a scan myself!"

"No," said Dr. Stevens. "I will do a scan using my own equipment. I have nothing to gain or lose here."

"Fair enough" said Mira.

"No!" yelled Miranda.

"Why not Miranda?" asked Dr. Stevens. "Don't you trust my results after all these years of working together?" He already knew the truth. He thought it odd that Miranda had sent all the staff on leave for three months, including him and she had been acting strangely since he returned earlier than expected. It was also strange to him that she and Simon would have tried the experiment without him present.

"But . . . " began Miranda.

"No buts, Miranda. I know the truth without running another scan. Simon WAS killed during that experiment, wasn't he? That is why you wouldn't let me see him for weeks afterwards. You knew I would be able to tell the difference. And the computer logs on the craft were not damaged in the explosion, were they? You erased them to keep me from discovering that you had made an interdimensional trip."

"Richard! How can you say that?" Miranda asked, visibly upset.

"Because I know you and Simon and neither of you have been acting the same since the so called lab accident."

"Simon . . . " Miranda looked at him, her eyes filled with fear and pain.

"He's right, isn't he Miranda?" said Simon. "I told you how I remembered things about my life that you tried to persuade me were not really mine. And the fact that I could not remember much about this life--our life together. The injections that you kept giving me. What were those for? To help me forget my real life?"

"Injections?" asked Mira.

"Vitamins. That's all they were," said Miranda. "It was all because of the accident, Simon," she pleaded, still trying to keep up the charade.

"Stop it!" yelled Simon, "Enough! We will do the scan again to make sure I am who I already know I am. And then . . . "

"First things first," said Dr. Stevens. "This way to the lab."

A few minutes later the truth was confirmed. Simon was not in the right universe. Mira hugged him tightly, not wanting to let go.

"But why is it my memories are all confused?" asked Simon.

"I tested your blood too," replied Dr. Stevens, "it shows you have a high level of meskryptin in your system."

"What is that?" asked Simon.

"It's a drug used to treat patients with severe memory pains," said Mira. "It makes them forget their trauma until they are ready to deal with it. Even if this were used because of the accident, you wouldn't have this level in your system. She was trying to make you forget your life--your REAL life."

"Miranda?" asked Simon.

"You don't understand! My Simon died in that accident! I couldn't go on living without him! He was my life!" Miranda broke down in tears and fell into a chair, her head in her hands.

"I understand," said Mira. "But you know what you did was wrong. You denied Simon his rightful life."

"I thought he would truly forget that life and come to love the one we had together--our life."

Obviously this Mira was distraught with grief and in need of some serious counseling. Wonder if this universe has a Counselor Bek? thought Mira.

"Perhaps we can help," said Mira. She tapped her comm badge. "Rita, transport him to these coordinates, please."

In a few seconds Simon materialized in the room.

"Oh my!" said Miranda, standing. "What? Who?"

Simon looked at Miranda. He heard all that had taken place through Mira and Richard's open comm badges. "Miranda, I lost my love too. I've come this far in the hopes that maybe the two of us might build a life together. I had nothing left in my universe. I know the grief you're suffering. I'm going through the same thing. Please," He reached over and took her hand in his and then drew her to him. "I know it won't be exactly the same but---"

"No," she said, holding him, "it won't be. But maybe it will be enough."

------------------

Mira, Simon, Richard and Rita were headed back to their jump point.

"With counseling, I'm sure Miranda will be all right," said Richard.

"Yes. She's a strong woman," said Simon.

"I hope they make it together," said Mira.

"I 'm sure they will," said Rita, looking at Richard. "Some people are just meant to be together."

"Yes," said Mira, safely wrapped in Simon's arms, "that's very true," she smiled, "very true."