A Day In (Part 26 of the Drabble Series)

Rating:                    AC for A

Characters:                Elim Garak

Pairing/s:                 None

Notes:                     Drinking, Depression

Set During: Season 1 Episode 17 “The Forsaken”

           

            It had been common knowledge for the past week that a group of Federation Ambassadors would be touring the station. Garak had decided that it would be prudent to keep a low profile during the visit. However, he wasn’t about to pass up such a good opportunity to gain useful information. It was unfortunate that Julian had been assigned as the ambassadors’ liaison officer. Garak was sure that he could have gained plenty of information from the dear Doctor.

            Instead Garak had opted to not open the shop and remain in his quarters. He sat behind the desk pouring over the computer readouts. He’d managed to hack into the system, but it had taken over an hour to covertly disable all of constable Odo’s security protocols; the man was really quite talented. Unfortunately, he’d found nothing of use so far.

            It was amazing how easy it was to hack into three of the ambassadors’ journals; the Vulcan’s had been a pleasant challenge. Unfortunately, the journals had been filled with useless and often pity information. Just as he was beginning to find so slightly interesting technical, if not ticket to Cardassia, information from the Vulcan’s journal the computer started malfunctioning.

            Garak was just beginning to realize that the main station’s computer must be on the frits when the lights dimmed. His first thought was, finally the light levels are appropriately dimmed. He decided that there was no point in fighting with the computer. He wasn’t about to fix the problem, and it didn’t seem there was anything useful to find anyway.

            Garak stood up and stretched. He hadn’t realized how long it had been since he sat down in front of the computer. He walked over to the replicator and was about to order rokassa juice when he remembered the bottle of kanar he had on the bookshelf.

            He might as well indulge. He wasn’t going anywhere today. Garak retrieved the bottle and an empty glass. It had been a quite some time since he had enjoyed a good glass of kanar. He poured a glass and reflected that it was going to be more difficult than he thought to gain information that would get him home.

            He downed the glass of kanar in one go. Why hadn’t he just wished himself back to Cardassia with the adoration of those in power to boot? He poured another glass and downed it quickly.

            It seemed colder in his quarters than usual. He vaguely wondered if it was the systems malfunctions or his morose mood. It didn’t really matter. He decided to crawl into bed with his kanar. He’d feel much better under the warm blankets.

…

            It wasn’t until the a few days later that Garak heard about Julian’s heroics during the fire. He felt at once proud and angry with the dear Doctor. His abilities and quick thinking were finally beginning to show through. But, what had the man been thinking to put his self in danger like that?

            Garak tried very hard to convince himself that it was because Julian was his best chance at a ticket back to Cardassia that he reacted so strongly to the news. He wasn’t becoming attached to the young, naïve, and beautiful man. He didn’t have friends. He couldn’t afford them, not before his exile and definitely not now. 

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General comments and constructive criticism welcome. Feel free to comment. 

I acknowledge that Elim Garak, Julian Bashir, Cardassia, etc. are the property of either Paramount or CBS, not entirely sure which due to the changes in 2006. The story is however mine, and done solely for entertainment purposes.

COMING SOON:

Station Staging

Trapped (Part 25 of the Drabble Series)

Rating:                    AC for A

Characters:                Elim Garak, wish Julian Bashir,

Pairing/s:                 None

Notes:                     None

Set During: Season 1 Episode 16 “If Wishes Were Horses”

            Garak decided that there was no point in keeping the shop open. There were no customers on the promenade. Almost everyone was obsessed with there own particular variety of wishes, and none of those seemed to be buying clothes.

            Garak locked up the shop and headed for the turbo lift back to his quarters. He noticed that Quark seemed to have no problem with keeping customers. But, the Ferengi was uncharacteristically unhappy about this fact. A further glance explained why. Garak smiled as he noticed that all the customers were winning. It seemed Quark would be better off closing down the bar as well.

            Garak entered the turbo lift that opened before him. There was no one else on board. He hated these lifts they were so small and cramped. He took a careful breath and directed his mind way from the confining space.

            The lift started shaking and stopped. Garak became nervous. He accessed the comm panel. It wasn’t working. He tried to focus and not let his claustrophobia take control of him. The space wasn’t so small after all. He wasn’t…

            He was trapped; trapped in a small confining space with no way to communicate with anyone. His chest was being constricted. He was struggling to breath.

            Garak fought the sensation; tried to get control of the situation, to breath. It was getting worse. He was going to die in here. He fell against the wall and slid down it to the floor.

            His vision was becoming blurred. He wished that the dear Doctor were here now. The Doctor would at least be a comforting presence, even if he didn’t understand why.

            As his vision began to fade to black he felt a warm hand against his forehead. “Garak, stay with me.”

            It was Julian’s voice. Garak opened his eyes to see the young man crouched down beside him looking concerned. Garak’s mind barely registered that this must be an illusion, his wish Julian. He didn’t care.

            Another tremor shook the lift. Garak wished that the tremors would stop. They didn’t. He realized that at least some of what was going on wasn’t being caused by his imagination. He reached up and took the golden hand that was still resting against his forehead.

            “Can’t… breath.” He managed to wheeze.

            “Yes you can. There’s nothing stopping you from breathing.” Julian placed his free hand onto Garak’s chest.

            “To… small. Out… want out.” Garak was struggling to concentrate on Julian and not the small space.

            “Garak, look at me.” Julian’s tone was commanding. “There’s nothing keeping you from breathing. It’s all in your head. So, breath.”

            Garak emitted a strangled wheeze of a laugh. Apparently his wish Julian was more like himself than the real Julian. He focused on the warm, smooth hand in his and shut his eyes.

            “That’s it. Just relax and breathe.” Julian stroked the chest lightly.

            Garak was slowly managing to get himself under control again. He was better able to think with more oxygen reaching his brain. He noticed that the turbo lift had stopped shaking. It would only be a matter of moments before it started moving again. He would be fine.

            The lift jerked and began moving normally again. Garak opened his eyes and stood up. He was embarrassed by his own weakness. Julian vanished as he began to focus on reality and stopped imagining things. 

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General comments and constructive criticism welcome. Feel free to comment. 

I acknowledge that Elim Garak, Julian Bashir, Cardassia, etc. are the property of either Paramount or CBS, not entirely sure which due to the changes in 2006. The story is however mine, and done solely for entertainment purposes.

COMING SOON:

A Day In

Well ... (Part 24 of the Drabble Series)

Rating:                    GA

Characters:                Elim Garak, Julian Bashir, wish Jadzia, 

Pairing/s:                 None

Notes:                     None

Set During: Season 1 Episode 16 “If Wishes Were Horses”

            Garak entered his shop quickly, but didn’t turn on the lights. He watched Julian and the wish Jadzia from the privacy of darkness. If he had needed any proof of Julian’s infatuation this was the proof. He was most disturbed by how Julian’s wish behaved; he thought Julian was less shallow in his tastes.

            Garak couldn’t stand to watch anymore of the pathetic display. He moved to the back room of his shop without turning on the lights. He’d spend a few minutes under the heating blanket to get warmed up; he’d open the shop later.

            He wondered just how long Julian’s infatuation was going to last. Maybe he could use it to his advantage. Teasing valuable information from Julian might be easier with him distracted by a certain Trill.

            Of course, Julian’s wish manifestation presented Garak with more troubling questions. Why was Julian so willing to help him? Why had the young man made such an effort to comfort him during the aphasia incident? What was Julian trying to gain from him?

            Garak continued to think about these problems while he warmed up under the blanket. He had assumed at the time it was because Julian was interested in him. The way he’d reacted during their first meeting suggested that he was attracted to Garak on a subconscious level. The way he’d jumped when his shoulder was touched, Garak would always remember that moment fondly. He was certain that Julian was interested, but not yet ready to realize the interest.

            But, his wish would seem to indicate otherwise. The young man was completely at the mercy of his hormonal attraction to Jadzia. You’d think he was an adolescent. Damn, Jadzia complicated matters.

            What were the possibilities? Julian could still be interest in him, but it seemed unlikely. And, if he wasn’t then there was the possibility that he was trying to use him. But, how? And, to what ends? The third possibility was that Julian really wanted to be his friend.

            Garak pondered that possibility for a moment. He decided that it was the least likely of all the possibilities. No one wanted simply to be his friend. They all sought some type of gain from him.

            But, what could Julian have gained by staying by him while he died? Garak pushed the thought away again. There was no way that this young Starfleet officer was simply looking for a friend. No way.

            Garak felt about as warm as possible given the environmental settings. He pushed all the thoughts away for the time being. He’d open his shop and focus on making a living, even if it was banal. 

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General comments and constructive criticism welcome. Feel free to comment. 

I acknowledge that Elim Garak, Julian Bashir, Cardassia, etc. are the property of either Paramount or CBS, not entirely sure which due to the changes in 2006. The story is however mine, and done solely for entertainment purposes.

COMING SOON:

Trapped

Surprising Revelations Epilogue

Rating:                    EC for S

Characters:                Elim Garak, Julian Bashir

Pairing/s:                 Elim Garak / Julian Bashir

Notes:                     Sex toys, Anal sex 

            Julian awoke slowly the next day. He was still wrapped in and around the sleeping form of Elim, his lover. It was a wonderful experience. He watched the man sleep peacefully for a while before waking him.

            He bent his head and kissed the man gently on the lips. “Good morning.”

            Elim smiled broadly. “Good morning.”

            Julian noticed that he didn’t open his eyes. “Still tired?”

            “No, I slept wonderfully.”

            “So, why aren’t you opening your eyes?” Julian ran a finger down the side of his grey cheek.

            “I’m enjoying the feeling of waking up next to you.” Elim finally opened his eyes and looked at Julian. “Beautiful.”

            “Yes, you are very.” Julian replied with a boyish grin.

            “Do you have to work today?” Elim stretched slightly. “I must say that you’ve made me quite sore.”

            Julian rolled off of Elim. “The feeling is mutual, but it’s worth it. I can’t remember a time that I’ve had more enjoyable sex.”

            Elim smiled. “You’re just saying that.”

            “No I’m…” Julian realized that Elim was teasing him. “I see some things never change.”

            “And, others have changed a lot.” Elim grasped Julian’s hand and laced their fingers together. “You still haven’t answered my question.”

            “Um, work, that’s right.” Julian thought for a second. “Nope, not until later in the evening.”

            “It doesn’t sound like you thought this encounter out very well.” Elim was bemused.

            “Nope, I just got tremendously lucky.” He smiled goofily.

            “Well, in future we should make a point to plan things in advance.”

            “So, you want this to continue then?” Julian’s smile was predatory.

            Garak kissed him firmly. “I would like that very much. But, we’ll have to be careful, or people will discover our relationship.

            Julian accepted this stipulation; he knew that Elim was secretive. He rather liked the idea of having a secret to share with Elim. He supposed that he should continue to call Elim by his family name in public.

            “Elim?” Julian rolled onto his side so that he could see the man’s face.

            “Hmm?” He seemed immensely content at the moment.

            “What did you think of your first time? Did you like everything? What was your favorite? Is there anything that surprised you?” Julian stopped his questioning and waited.

            Elim thought for a bit before answering. “My first time was wonderfully delightful. I enjoyed all of it, but my favorite was I last few times in the shower, only because I felt the most comfortable those times. I wasn’t worried about doing something wrong or hurting you by then. And, your reactions were so lovely. I could tell I was bringing you pleasure.”

            Julian waited a few minutes before prompting for more. “And, did anything surprise you?”

            “A lot of things. But, I think the thing that surprised me the most was your reaction to being penetrated. I never imagined that it could feel that good.” Elim had an almost longing expression on his face.

            “Would you like to try it sometime?” Julian asked as he ran his fingers over the scale pattern of Elim’s chest.

            “I’m interested.” Elim thought for a while. “I’ve heard that it hurts the first time.”

            Julian studied Elim before answering; he didn’t seem concerned about the potential pain. “It can. However, if done right, it won’t be. I know a few ways to help prepare someone for being penetrated for the first time. If you’re really interested, we could start today.”

            “Penetrate me today?” Elim seemed taken aback by the speed.

            “Well, not me.”

            Elim looked at Julian perplexed.

            “Wait a moment and I’ll show you what I mean.” Julian climbed out of bed and went to the replicator.

            “I haven’t agreed to anything yet.” Elim laughed lightly at the young man’s enthusiasm.

            “I know.”

            Julian returned with a small rubber thing that looked like a long skinny plug. He handed the blue piece of ridged yet soft rubber to Elim. He turned it over in his hands thinking before finally looking at Julian for an answer.

            “That’s called a butt plug. Its name explains all really. People wear them for a number of reasons. Some people wear them during sex because they like feeling full the whole time. They’re really designed to be worn at any time, not necessarily during sex. They’re also used for training. That’s what I’m suggesting.” Julian paused to see Elim’s reaction.

            “I think you should explain further.” He looked puzzled and amused.

            “Well, we would start with a small one. Like the one you’re holding. We would work our way up, as you got more comfortable. And, after a certain point you’d be more than ready for me to penetrate you; there’d be no pain to worry about.” Julian concluded.

            “So, I would wear this at all times? Even in public?” Elim looked almost scandalized.

            “Well, not all the time, but you would wear it in public.” Julian answered.

            “That just sounds distasteful.” Elim made a face.

            “It’s not as odd as it sounds. No one will know that you’re wearing it. I’ve done it before. It’s not really distasteful at all.” Julian could understand Elim’s reaction.

            “What if somebody noticed? It’d be very weird. I don’t like the idea of someone knowing that type of intimate information about me.” He looked oddly nervous suddenly.

            “It’s okay if you don’t want to do this. I’m just explaining it to you. You also wouldn’t have to wear one in public. You could wear them on days in or at night or during sex.”

            “It’s not that I’m not interested. I just don’t want to do anything sexual in a public setting.” He was less nervous looking now.

            “Elim, are all Cardassian’s modest or is this a personal trait? You even dress in a very modest way. That robe of yours covered more than your regular clothes.” Julian smiled fondly and resumed running his fingers over Elim’s chest scales.

            Elim sighed happily in response to the touches. “After reaching adulthood, there is a tendency towards modesty, but it varies like anything. I would probably be considered very modest even by Cardassian standards.”

            Julian leaned over and kissed him. “My modest Elim.” 

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General comments and constructive criticism welcome. Feel free to comment. 

I acknowledge that Elim Garak, Julian Bashir, Cardassia, etc. are the property of either Paramount or CBS, not entirely sure which due to the changes in 2006. The story is however mine, and done solely for entertainment purposes.

Elim Dax (Preview)

This is a preview of a story I'm currently writing. I'll post the Drudgery Bit for it once I'm ready to post more than a preview. The story is currently at 6000 words. I'm just showing this small portion as a preview to make up for the lack of Drabbles. I've gotten rather engrossed in this story to the detriment of the Drabble Series.

Rating: AC for A

Note: Deals with the topic of death.

            Julian had just finished his autopsy report on Jadzia’s death when the computer informed him that the Dax symbiont was destabilizing. He rushed into the back surgery room where Dax was awaiting transport back to Trill. Julian looked over the readouts; it wasn’t good. If he didn’t have Dax in a host in the next three hours the symbiont would be dead.

            “Computer, how many non-human life forms are on the station?” he started to pace around the room.

            “There are eight hundred and seventy-two non-human life forms on the station at this time.”

            “Computer, exclude Vulcan, Romulan, Klingon, and Bajoran life forms. Also, exclude Odo. Now, how many life forms are left?” Julian was racking his brain to think of anyone on the station that might be able to accept the symbiont temporarily.

            “One hundred and three life forms meet that criteria.”

            “Of those eliminate any that are known to be incapable of joining with a Trill symbiont. How many are left?” Julian really hoped that the answer wasn’t zero.

            “Fifteen.”

            Julian sighed. “Are any of those fifteen known to be compatible with a Trill Symbiont?”

            “There are no records on file of any of the species represented ever joining with a Trill symbiont.”

            “What species are represented by the fifteen possible candidates?” Julian leaned against the computer console before him.

            “There are nine Ferengi, three Bolians, two Benzites, and one Cardassian.”

            “We can rule out the Benzites due to their need to consume nitrogen in large quantities. We can also rule out the Bolians on account of their biochemical makeup. That leaves us with Ferengi or the one Cardassian on the station.” Julian quickly pulled up files on both the Ferengi and Cardassian body.

            As he looked over the information available, it became apparent that the Ferengi body would be incapable of holding the symbiont. There just wasn’t enough room. Julian closed out the file on Ferengi and began to study everything he had on Cardassian physiology.

            After thirty minutes of studying, Julian could find no evidence to suggest that Garak would be incapable of carrying the Dax symbiont. “Computer, put in a voice transmission to Captain Sisko.”

            “Sisko here.”

            “I’d like you to come to the infirmary right away.” Julian didn’t feel like discussing this over a communications channel.

            “Is it absolutely necessary, Doctor?” Sisko sounded exhausted.

            “I’m afraid so, Captain. It’s about the Dax symbiont.” Julian was feeling tired as well; he replicated a raktajino, double sweet and double strong.

            “I’ll be there shortly. Sisko out.”

… 

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General comments and constructive criticism welcome. Feel free to comment. 

I acknowledge that Elim Garak, Julian Bashir, Cardassia, etc. are the property of either Paramount or CBS, not entirely sure which due to the changes in 2006. The story is however mine, and done solely for entertainment purposes.

COMING SOON:

Elim Dax

His Distraction (Part 23 of the Drabble Series)

Rating: GA  

Set During: Season 1 Episode 16 “If Wishes Were Horses”

            Garak had determined that there were no medical reasons to explain the anomaly of Julian waking him up earlier in the morning. He’d checked the computer to determine if there were any external anomalies that could explain the incident. No had been found. There was no evidence of foul play that he could detect. He decided that he’d have to look for answers as he went about his daily routine.

            The turbo lift doors opened to reveal the Promenade. It was covered in snow and more was coming down. Garak shivered violently. He’d never felt this cold; it might be best to return to his quarters. But, then he would never discover what was happening. He headed off at a brisk pace for his shop. Halfway there the snow suddenly vanished in much the same manner that the Doctor had previously.

            Garak stopped to look around. Odo was nearby. As much as Garak loathed the idea of asking the good constable what was going on, he walked over to him. He put on his amiable shopkeeper smile as he approach.

            “Odo, I don’t suppose you could tell me what’s going on around here? I’ve experienced some rather strange occurrences this morning.” Garak smiled politely.

            “Mr. Garak.” Odo replied with a knowing smirk. “That would explain why the snow suddenly vanished.”

            “Pardon me.” Garak found the comment obscure and irritating. “But, what is that supposed to mean?”

            Odo continued to smirk. “Just that Cardassians hate the cold.”

            Garak didn’t respond. The cold had put him into a foul mood. Still, he knew better than to rise to the constable’s bait. He’d have to curl up under the heating blanket in the back room for a few minutes before opening the shop, otherwise the he’ remain in an unproductive mood.

            “It’s just that it seems that our imaginations are running away with us. Or, I should say your imaginations are running away with you. I have no use for such a thing.” Odo watched closely as his word became clear to Garak.

            “I see.” Garak glanced at the constable. “I was just thinking ‘I wish the snow would go away,’ and it did. Just like that. I suppose this is going to be an interesting day.”

            “If by interesting you mean busy and chaotic, then yes it’s going to be an interesting day.” Odo scoffed and walked away.

            Garak was pondering this new information as he turned and headed towards his shop. He was brought up short by the sight of Doctor Bashir, Jadzia, Jadzia, and the Chief walking down the Promenade towards Jadzia’s lab. One of the Jadzia’s was hang off of the Doctor in a very promiscuous manner. 

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General comments and constructive criticism welcome. Feel free to comment. 

I acknowledge that Elim Garak, Julian Bashir, Cardassia, etc. are the property of either Paramount or CBS, not entirely sure which due to the changes in 2006. The story is however mine, and done solely for entertainment purposes.

COMING SOON:

Well...

Wakeup Call (Part 22 of the Drabble Series)

Rating: MC

Set During: Season 1 Episode 16 “If Wishes Were Horses”

            Garak felt the most wonderful sensation. There were lips working there way up the center of his chest and across his clavicular ridge. He had never been awoken in such a wonderful way. He squirmed as the warm, moist mouth started to slowly work it’s way up his neck ridge, but he didn’t open his eyes.

            “Aren’t you going to wake up this morning, Elim?” He recognized those honey sweet tones.

            Garak’s eyes opened quickly as he realized to whom that voice belonged. It couldn’t be; he must be tricking himself. He sat up slightly and saw the beautiful form of the Doctor sprawled next to him. He quickly sank back down, perplexed.

            “What’s wrong?” Julian kissed his mouth gently. “You just went rigid.”

            “What are you doing Doctor?” Garak tried to keep himself under control.

            “Doctor? You never call me Doctor in bed.” Julian glanced at him with concern.

            “Whatever game you’re playing at, please stop.” Garak was trying not to get angry, or panics, or give into his desire to let whatever was happening continue. “How did you learn my given name?”

            Julian started to pout. “What do you mean, how do I know your name?”

            Julian got up a stomped off towards the bathroom. He never got there. He got about halfway across the room and vanished. Garak all but jumped out of bed.

            “Doctor?” His voice contained a note of dismay.

            Garak took a second to recover his wits, before deciding what to do. Something very strange was happening, and he needed to find out what. He couldn’t believe that the dear Doctor would behave like that towards him for any reason.

            “Computer, locate Doctor Bashir.” Garak asked the computer.

            “Doctor Bashir is in Operations.”

            Garak relaxed a fraction. At least he was right to think that the Doctor had not just been in his quarters do those things to him. His mind strayed to those wonderful sensations.

            He stopped his reminiscing. “You need to concentrate. Yes, you’ve solved one mystery. But, that still leaves quite a few unanswered questions. So, concentrate.” 

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General comments and constructive criticism welcome. Feel free to comment. 

I acknowledge that Elim Garak, Julian Bashir, Cardassia, etc. are the property of either Paramount or CBS, not entirely sure which due to the changes in 2006. The story is however mine, and done solely for entertainment purposes.

COMING SOON:

His Distraction

Cross-Cultural (Part 21 of the Drabble Series)

Rating: MC

Set During: Season 1 Episode 15 “Progress”

            “That’s true, but you’re talking about two very different times. At the time this play was written many people were physically scarred. And, women weren’t well educated. They were presented with these romantic ideas and sheltered from the reality of the world. They were naïve and easy prey for the likes of Erik.” Julian looked triumphant.

            “The mask doesn’t make sense, even in that context. He’s clearly disowned the society that treated him so poorly. Why would he use a mask? He’s clearly not trying to fit into the society.” Garak’s rebuttal caught Julian by surprise.

            Julian took a bite of his soup to give him time to think. Garak sipped his rokassa juice. He enjoyed watching the man think, his face was so transparent.

            “He wears the mask because he’s ashamed of himself. He may have attempted to shun society, but he’s still a man. He still desires love and caring. He knows his appearance will prevent him from ever gaining that love.” Julian replies thoughtfully.

            “What about the Persian then? It would seem that he at least was able to show kindness to Erik, even while knowing who and what he was, a monster.” Garak challenged.

            “Erik wasn’t a monster. That’s the whole point of the book. That’s why in the end he’s able to sacrifice his own happiness for the one person he truly cared about. It’s society that was the monster.” Julian couldn’t believe that Garak had missed the whole point of the story.

            “But, Doctor, he was a monster. The Persian understood that, yet he still didn’t hate the man. I found the Persian to be the only other interesting character in the book. Although, it’s beyond me to understand how he overlooked Erik’s faults. Still, in the end, he was able to put aside his feelings and do what he knew was right.”

            “Garak, I don’t see how you can call Erik a monster. Just because he didn’t look the same as everybody…”

            Garak cut him off. “He’s not a monster because of how he looks. He’s a monster because of what he did. He defied the state on numerous occasions. He put his wants and desires before duty.”

            “Are you actually suggesting that he should have been loyal to people that treated him like an animal? Garak the whole point of this book is to show how it’s the wrongs of society that made Erik act as he did. In the end, he was a good person though. When he was shown just a small amount of kindness he was able to do what was right. It’s society and the state that was the monster.” Julian was dumbfounded by Garak’s inability to understand the point.

            “A very human view point. I found the ending to be utterly ridiculous and unbelievable. The author would have us believe that a brilliant and resourceful man with no scruples as regards to laws and society would because of one tiny act of kindness completely change his ways. Really, it’s optimistic to the point of reckless, Doctor.”

            “This book’s a statement on societies need to change. It showed that often society creates its own problems, that by changing our prejudices we can make a better world.” Julian argued passionately.

            “If you say so, Doctor. We will just have to agree to disagree.”  Garak finished his drink and sat the cup down. “I’d like to thank you for a very entertaining lunch. Perhaps we can do it again sometime.”

            “I think I’d like that. Perhaps we can find other works of literature to exchange?” Julian smiled roguishly.

            “I’m sure we can.” Garak smiled as he stood up. He bowed his head slightly before heading back to his shop. 

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General comments and constructive criticism welcome. Feel free to comment. 

I acknowledge that Elim Garak, Julian Bashir, Cardassia, etc. are the property of either Paramount or CBS, not entirely sure which due to the changes in 2006. The story is however mine, and done solely for entertainment purposes.

COMING SOON:

Wakeup Call

Life and Fiction (Part 20 of the Drabble Series)

Rating: MC

Set During: Season 1 Episode 15 “Progress”

            “Well, it seems to me that the Major is learning what it means to be in charge. It isn’t easy. You have to deal with all sorts of uncomfortable problems. Sometimes you even have to do things that you hate.” Garak replied.

            “Yes, but what does that have to do with Leroux’s The Phantom of the Opera?” Julian was trying to follow Garak’s reasoning and failing.

            “In the beginning of the book the managers find themselves in a similar position. They’ve worked hard to gain the power over the opera house, and to their dismay they discover a series of difficulties is all that they’ve inherited.” Garak presented this view with a look on his face that suggested it was fait accompli.

            “So, you’re suggesting that the managers are a metaphor for the state?” Julian looked at him with amazement.

            “I said no such thing, I simply pointed out that what you were telling me in regards to Major Kira reminded me of the book.” Garak grinned cleverly.

            “Well, what did you think of the book?” Julian asked eagerly.

            “Overall, I found the story to be superficial.” Garak replied. “Most of the other characters were hardly believable. Take Christine for example, hopelessly naïve and of poor intellect.”

            Julian’s face fell. “Well, was there anything about the story that you liked?”

            “I found the main character, Erik, to be very fascinating. It’s really to bad that the author insisted on giving the character physical scars, and a mask as well.” Garak scoffed at this last idea.

            “That’s one of the beauties of the story. The scars are a physical representation of the pain of his past, and the mask is an attempt to escape from that pain, to fit in.” Julian argued passionately.

            Garak watched and listened with interest. The Doctor was a very engaging and alluring companion. He’d have to arouse his passions more frequently, if only to indulge his own secret desires. It was really too bad that the man seemed uninterested in other types of engaging passions.

            “Precisely, it’s easy, and too obvious. Very few people have scars to show such pain. The pain is hidden, or expresses itself in more subtle ways.” Garak took a bite of his stew.

            “It sounds like you are well acquainted with such pain.” Julian replied seriously. “I guess as a spy you would be.” He added on a much lighter note.

            “Really Doctor, you of all people know better than to believe the rumors that fly on this station. I was simply pointing out a fact. Take the Bajorans, most of them experienced some type of horror during the occupation, but they’re mostly without visible scars.” 

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General comments and constructive criticism welcome. Feel free to comment. 

I acknowledge that Elim Garak, Julian Bashir, Cardassia, etc. are the property of either Paramount or CBS, not entirely sure which due to the changes in 2006. The story is however mine, and done solely for entertainment purposes.

COMING SOON:

Cross-Cultural

Lunch Again (Part 19 of the Drabble Series)

Rating: MC

Set During: Season 1 Episode 15 “Progress”

            Garak looked up from the display he was preparing when he heard the doors to his shop open. It figured that he would have his first customer for the day right before he had planned to leave for lunch. He broke into a genuine grin when he discovered that it was the dear Doctor.

            “How may I help you, Doctor?” Garak gestured to the shop. “A new suit perhaps?”

            “Oh, no, actually I figured I’d stop by and see if you were ready for lunch.” Julian glanced around at the displays.

            “As a matter of fact, I was just about to close up the shop.” Garak gestured towards the door.

            They both walked out of the shop. Julian waited patiently as Garak turned on the closed sign, locked the doors, and input a security code. Garak for his part observed Julian’s slightly ruffled appearance.

            “You seem out of sorts.” Garak commented carefully. “I hope everything is okay.”

            “Oh, yes.” Julian was surprised at Garak’s perceptiveness. “Just some stuff with work.”

            They walk off in the direction of the Replimate at a leisurely pace.

            “I hope we aren’t facing another station wide medical problem. I must say that the last one was quite unpleasant enough.” Garak chuckled lightly. “No offence, but if I’m never in your infirmary again it will be to soon.”

            “Yes.” Julian felt a little awkward thinking about the events that had brought Garak there previously. “But, it did lead to my finding a nice lunch companion.”

            Garak smiled his banal smile to hide his sudden discomfort. “That it did.”

            They lapsed into silence as they entered the queue for the replicator. Garak reflected on the idea that he might actually have found a friend. It was unexpected and rather frightening. It had been a long time since he could call someone friend. The Doctor was just supposed to be a way to get back to Cardassia, nothing else.

            “What would you like for lunch?” They had reached the replicator.

            Garak responded automatically. “Rokassa juice and ratamba stew.”

            “And, I’ll have tarkalean tea, double sweet, and plomeek soup with basil.” Julian picked up the tray of food that materialized. “The captain put me on to the addition of basil. It’s very good.”

            “Perhaps I’ll try it sometime.” Garak sat down at their usual table.

            Julian joined him and paused Garak his food. “Well, I for one am quite hungry. I skipped dinner last night, just didn’t feel much like eating.”

            “Why Doctor, I don’t have to tell you that’s bad for your health.” Garak chastises the young man teasingly.

            “Yes, but on some occasions unavoidable.” Julian answered and his previous ruffled demeanor returned slightly.

            “This wouldn’t have something to do with what was bothering you earlier, would it?” Garak wondered whether there was useful information here.

            “If you must know, yes. It does.” Julian stabbed at his food, but didn’t actually take a bite. “I’d rather not talk about it really.”

            “But, it’s clearly bothering you.” Garak decided it was best to use a bit of misdirection. “Perhaps you should talk to someone about it, Lieutenant Commander Dax perhaps? It could help.”

            “Maybe, I’ve already talked to Commander Sisko.” Julian ate and brooded for a bit.

            Garak sat quietly and sipped his rokassa juice. He could see the Doctor’s thoughts flash across the man’s beautifully unadorned face. If he waited just a bit longer he’d have the Doctor talking.

            “It’s just that emergency I got called away for yesterday.” Julian sat his fork down. “Major Kira has been forced to remove some Bajorans against their will. She’s really struggling with the assignment. Part of her understands and part of her feels like an occupier. She may loose her commission over this if she doesn’t figure things out soon.”

            “I see.” The information wasn’t useful, time to distract the man from his worries. “Actually, that reminds me of the book you loaned me.”

            “How?” Julian was interested. 

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General comments and constructive criticism welcome. Feel free to comment. 

I acknowledge that Elim Garak, Julian Bashir, Cardassia, etc. are the property of either Paramount or CBS, not entirely sure which due to the changes in 2006. The story is however mine, and done solely for entertainment purposes.

COMING SOON:

Life and Fiction

Retelling (Part 18 of the Drabble Series)

Rating: MC

Set After: Season 1 Episode 14 “The Storyteller”

&

Set During: Season 1 Episode 15 “Progress”

             Garak was sitting across the table from Doctor Bashir, watching and listening intently. The man was animatedly telling him about a recent adventure he and Chief O’Brien had on Bajor. He found the way the Doctor told the story much more interesting than the story itself.

            “So, you never figured out what this thing that was terrorizing the village was?” Garak asked the right question at the right time.

            Julian smiled excitedly; glad to have an interested audience for a change. “Well, yes and no. But, I’ll get to that shortly. As I was saying, the Chief didn’t like the way the villagers were treating him, so he went back to the house. And, I walked in a short while later just in time to rescue him from an assassination attempt.”

            “Really? Why would any of the villagers want to kill the man they perceived as their savior?” Garak suspected the answer, but wanted to let the Doctor think he was revealing something surprising.

            “How do you know it was a villager?” Julian looked at him suspiciously. “Have you already heard about the events?”

            “No, I assumed that you would have mentioned any other strangers in the village by now if there where any.” Garak replied casually.

            “Oh, yes, well.” Julian recollected his thoughts. “It was a young man. He’d been the apprentice to the storyteller and was supposed to take his place. He didn’t take kindly to being shoved aside and replaced by the Chief.”

            “I suppose not.” Garak agreed.

            “Anyway, we got to talking to him after the attempt had ended. He explained that the Dal’Rok was created by a part of an orb. That it was the physical incarnation of the villagers’ fears. The storyteller just directs the villager; focuses their energy on uniting against their fears. I thought it was all rather fascinating.”

            “It does sound rather mysterious.” Garak suspected he knew where this story led. “So, did the Chief manage to save the villagers?”

            “No, but it wasn’t for lack of trying. In the end, I managed to convince the apprentice to take over for the Chief. It was he that managed to save the village.” Julian took a bit of his food.

            “And, you and the Chief were free to return to the station, a job well done.”

            “I guess so. I tell you Garak; it was amazing to experience, like something right out of Shakespeare’s The Tempest.”

            “Shakespeare, Doctor?” Garak was about to take a bit of food, but Julian’s reference interested him.

            “Sisko to Doctor Bashir.”

            Julian tapped the communicator on his chest. “Bashir here.”

            “Doctor your needed on run at pad C. Bring a medical kit. You’re headed to Jeraddo’s fifth moon. Sisko out.”

            Julian stood as he addressed Garak. “It seems our lunch is to be cut very short. Shall I make it up to you tomorrow?”

            “It would be my pleasure, Doctor. Until then.” Garak stood and bowed his head slightly. 

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General comments and constructive criticism welcome. Feel free to comment. 

I acknowledge that Elim Garak, Julian Bashir, Cardassia, etc. are the property of either Paramount or CBS, not entirely sure which due to the changes in 2006. The story is however mine, and done solely for entertainment purposes.

COMING SOON:

Lunch Again