Posted by Civilian Yavia Crockett (Nurse - Sacred Heart Hospital) in ???? Means Family

Posted by Lieutenant Commander Sharah Fayth (Chief Star Fleet Medical Officer) in ???? Means Family

Posted by Major General Charles Tenkiller (Vice Commandant, Colonial Customs and Defense Agency) in ???? Means Family
Posted by… suppressed (61) by the Post Ghost! 👻
“Sir, we have a problem.” The CCDA agent in the surveillance room on the Orbital Platform squinted at his screen. “Seems like some new arrivals are causing some disruption in the customs queue.”

The Supervising Agent stood up and walked over from his desk. Looking down he studied the scene for a moment. There were four humans, three women of varying ages and one older male, who appeared to be in some kind of argument with the customs agent they were talking to. It was apparently loud enough, judging from the number of people looking at the scene, that is was most certainly ly an issue. The Supervisong Agent set a finger on the comms icon on the desk display and said =/\= Security Team to Customs Intake Twelve asap. =/\= =/\= Copy.=/\= came the immediate response. The SA looked at the agent watching the screen. “Let Command know. We don’t need an incident right now. Tensions are high enough.”

Ten minutes later, a figure in a uniform with lots of rank insignia on his shoulders cut a path through the now-gathered crowd. As they approached, a voice could be heard over the mumbles. “I don’t know what a comm ID is! For the nine hundredth time! Can’t you just tap on that thing in front of you and get what you need? Isn’t that what it’s for?!” “Sir. I am asking you a simple question. I need your comm ID to verify your identity. The facial recognition scan is coming up with someone else besides who you claim to be; and you- unlike literally every other being on this station- has no biometric ID in our system. In fact, sir, I honestly don’t know how in the Nine Hells you even got here because no one can board a passenger ship anywhere in the Federation without* an ID in place!”

Before the man could reply, an authoritative voice cut through the din. “Because, Agent, he boarded a private vessel that picked him and his family up directly from their home; not a terminal. And they haven’t disembarked that vessel since. Scan them and enter them in the system, Agent. Use the name they gave you.” The Agent looked at CCDA Vice-Commander Major General Charles Tenkiller and stammered “Y-y-yessir.” Tenkiller turned and looked at the man and smiled.

“Well hey there, Dad.”

Tenkiller, VC CCDA

Sharah was standing in front of the scrub sink outside the OR. It hadn’t been a terribly complicated operation, just very delicate and a large amount of bone and tissue to treat. The ICU nurses had taken him to recovery and Ilena was cleaning and sterilizing the room. Sharah yanked the red protective gloves off her hands and then pulled the red hooded cap off her head. There was a sudden wash of delighted surprise and joy from many miles above her head. Charles. There was far too many minds between them for her to easily hear the thoughts over the strength of the emotions coming from him. She smiled as she changed out of the surgical scrubs. Whatever it was he would tell them tonight.

The older man- who looked almost identical to the Major General, just with more lines and weathering on his face- turned and looked at Tenkiller and smiled a broad smile as his eyes rimmed with tears. “My son… oh my son my son my son…” he said softly as he took the younger man in a full embrace and held him close. Charles returned the embrace and smiled as he looked past his father. His mother’s dark eyes shed tears and she moved in and joined the hug, as did the two other women. Charles smiled and maneuvered everyone so the hug didn’t crush anyone… especially him. “Dad. Mom. Abby. Mary. Gods above it so good to see you.” They were silent a moment and then the Agent cleared his throat. “General, they are in the system and ready. Sorry about that. I just had never-” and Tenkiller waved him off. “Don’t worry about it, Agent. You did what you were supposed to do. Good job.” He looked back at his family and said “Well… follow me. I’ll give you the tour. Don’t worry about your bags. My team will take them to the house for you.” The two sisters looked at one another and then shrugged and dropped the bags to the deck. Three agents moved and picked them up. Charles smiled and said “Come on in.” and waved them forward.

After a two hour tour of the Orbital Platform, Tenkiller took them to the CCDA Command shuttle bay. He loaded them inside one of the runabouts and took the pilot’s chair for himself. His father sat next to him. “I’ll get us down to the planet surface and then we can head to the house.” His mother leaned forward and said “And then you can introduce us to these two women you told us about, right?” Charles turned to say something, but his sisters started in immediately. “Do they know you have a sweetheart back home? Oh, they are GONNA know.” “If they aren’t Osage, we forbid you from marrying them.” “Two women, Skip? Two??! C’mon… over compensating for anything?” and on and on. Charles just laughed and looked at his dad; who shook his head and crossed his arms on his chest. “You shoulda heard ‘em on the trip out. Like this… but for weeks.” and Charles laughed. “Okay, you two. Shut up and let me fly this thing, alright?” He powered up the craft and lifted them off the deck, slipping out of the bay and into space.

He flew them around the planet for a about an hour, showing them the city and the burgeoning terraforming efforts. Finally he landed at the CCDA Complex and powered down the runabout. A slider was waiting for them, and Charles led them to it. “Inside everybody. Let’s get to the house.” he said. As the last of his family piled into the slider, he took a breath and simply thought Hey… I’m on my way to the house with some folks I want you and V to meet. and he stepped inside as the door closed and the slider moved towards the house.

Tenkiller

It had been a long last 2 hours to an even longer day. Sharah was happily watching the plants in her room glow in the dark. It was calm and peaceful. Yavia was was enjoying a bubble bath and every so often Sharah would laugh at the silly delight she felt. She heard him clearly. It made her feel warm and anchored. He would feel a sensation like a warm brief hug.

“Yavia, Luv?” Sharah walked into her room and peeked in the bathroom. “Charles is on his way and is bringing company he wants us to meet.” Sharah managed to say it with more confidence than she felt.

A few minutes later Charles actually heard her voice in his head. Save me. Yavia is acting like I pumped her full of espressoninfusion units and has insisted she fix my hair.

Sharah

It was about thirty minutes later when a slider came into the driveway. Charles stepped out and looked back in the car. “Wait here a sec. They still don’t know you are here.” He turned and walked to the door, making sure to think the kind of thoughts that made Sharah do everything she could not to hear his mind. He walked in and said loudly “I hope y’all got clothes on. We got company! Come ‘ere!”

Yavia finished twirling one of Sharah’s curls around her fingers when she saw the bright red flush that rose over Sharah’s face. “Oh he’s home!” She laughed as Sharah got even redder. “To your disappointment, we do!” V yelled back up the stairs at him. She took Sharah’s hand and pulled her up. She knew how much Sharah hated meeting new people. It wasn’t that Sharah was antisocial. In fact, Sharah liked people as a general rule, it was just hard for her. “Come on, let’s see what he’s up to now.”

They made their way upstairs. Yavia was surprised they weren’t inside. So she lead the way out the door.

He walked out to the slider and waited for the girls to step outside before he motioned for the occupants to exit the vehicle. First out was a late teen-aged girl with deep reddish brown skin and jet black hair. She was stunningly beautiful, and carried a warmth that washed off her like a tidal wave. Next was a woman a some years older than Charles. She had a look of judgment on her weathered face and her eyes looked over the two women intently. Next came a woman that neither V nor Sharah had ever met.... but Sharah thought she had seen. Or rather, a woman who looked so familiar that it was almost impossible to think she had never met her before. She was a soft, gentle looking woman, with an innate intelligence that shown through her dark eyes like phaser beams. Lastly, a man exited. It was like like looking at Charles thirty years in the future. Weathered, lined skin and graying hair made no difference… it had to be Charles’ father. “Sharah, Yavia… meet my younger sister Mary. My older sister Abigail. My mother Donna Red Corn-Tenkiller. And my dad… Cecil. Mom, Dad, Abby, Mary… these are my partners. Lieutenant Commander Doctor Sharah Fayth and Nurse Yavia Crockett.” He stood back and waited to see who would crack and start laughing first.

Tenkiller

Sharah felt the judgement, but given who they were it wasn’t unexpected. Her gaze studied his mother, she knew she had felt images of her from Charles when he talked about her, but the connection felt more. She couldn’t quite place it for a moment and then she realized, smiling warmly.

Where Sharah was shy and quiet, Yavia was not. She bounded down the stairs and right up to Abigail and hugged the stuffing out of her. “You’re here! TK showed us some of your pottery, it’s gorgeous.” Then she hugged Mary. “You have to tell me how you ever put up with him as a big brother. He tends to try and throw orders around.” Sharah almost laughed, remembering. Yavia moved on to Donna and wrapped her in a hug. “We weren’t expecting you for a few more weeks. I hope you had a good trip.” Then she paused and looked at his father, “Now what are going to do with these two fine gentleman in the house at the same time?” She winked at him before hugging him.

Yavia

Abigail accepted the hug, but her eyes never left Sharah. There was a fire in there that, even for Sharah, was hard to determine if it was a warm one… or a blaze. Mary smiled as Yavia hugged her and she hugged her back. “Are you kidding? He’s the best brother anyone could ask for. Never there, never bugs us, and sends us great presents.” and she laughed. Donna embraced Yavia and smiled deeply. “You are just as Charles described, my dear. It is so nice to meet you.” When she hugged Cecil, he stiffened slightly but patted Yavia on the back twice. “A pleasure.” was all he said, but it seemed genuine enough.

Sharah felt the scrutiny like a forest fire. Sharah worked very hard to keep that balance between sinking into the storms and being present in the moment. She didn’t want to ruin this for Charles or Yavia.

Yavia tried not to looks mischievous at Cecil’s reaction. She liked Donna and Mary immediately. Abigail and Cecil were a bit harder to read. That was okay. Emotions were a tricky thing to interpret. But it was easy to tell they were happy to be there and equally curious. She glanced at Charles and winked.

Abigail walked towards Sharah and stood in front of her. She put her hands on her hips and said “So. You’re the doctor, huh? Chuck says you use some botanicals in your treatments. I would be interested in talking to you about that. He also says you can read minds. Is that true?” Charles looked at Abigail and said “Knock it off, Abby. You know bett-” and Abigail raised a finger and held back towards him, her eyes still locked on Sharah. “Well? Is it?”

Tenkiller Family

Yavia glanced sharply at TK and had to make herself keep still. She didn’t like the way Abigail spoke to Sharah. Sharah had to stand on her own though, no matter how much Yavia wanted to save her the pain. Why couldn’t people leave Sharah in peace? For now all she could do was offer Sharah the equivalent of a empathic blanket.

Yavia

Sharah was grateful for Yavia’s support and Charles’ attempt at interference. She met Abigail’s firey gaze. All Abigail would see in return was a battered fragile soul on the brink of breaking, with an iron will not to give up.

Sharah knew she was being judged. Fairly or not didn’t matter. She was used to it though she wished they would see her and not the illness. Her own people couldn’t even do that, how could she expect them to do so?

Sharah heard the voices, even recognized his grandmother and one or two others. That still weirded her out. “I would be happy to discuss my plants with you.” Sharah felt heart sick as the truth left her lips. She wouldn’t lie, “It is.”

Sharah

There was a sudden flood of affection that washed over Sharah. It came from Abigail, but there was just so much that it couldn’t be just her. Abigail smiled and hugged Sharah close. “Good. I hated being the only one in this family that had to deal with that.” She pulled back and smiled at Sharah. “And you can call me Abby.”

Sharah braced herself as Abigail moved to hug her. It wasn’t that Sharah didn’t hear it all anyway, but the contact brought a forced crystal clear clarity that brought her up out of the storms so that those around her were clearer. The contact was extremely gentle and … well it reminded Sharah of one of the balms she made for cuts. A slight sting and then soothing coolness. The flood of affection made her giddy and an involuntary giggle slipped out before she bit her tongue to stop it. “It’s not for the faint of heart is it? I’m Sharah.”

Mary’s mouth dropped open, as did Charles’. Donna, to her credit, simply smiled and stepped past them. “Close your mouths, dears… you’ll attract flies.” she said and laughed softly. Cecil smiled slightly and began to pull out some bags, but Charles stopped him. “No no, Dad. I got this. Y’all go on in and make yourselves at home. V can show ya your rooms and give you a tour.” and he went to talk to the driver.

Tenkiller

Sharah stood there a moment letting herself adjust to the rhythm before following them inside. She moved toward the bar and began setting out drinks while Yavia played hostess.

Sharah

Yavia grinned. No one had expected that response, but Yavia was grateful for it. She could appreciate Abigail’s flair for dramatics and antics. As TK took over the bags she slipped her hand into the crook of Cecil’s arm. “You just come with me and we’ll get you all settled.” Yavia was graceful and enigmatic without trying, but she was putting on the charm. It was hard not to, she was excited and happy.

The house smelled amazing. Something had been cooking slowly all day on the stove and Yavia had made rolls the night before to go with it. “This is the main floor. Kitchen and bar are over there. The den, which is much cozier than out here, and will fit us all, is on the otherside of the fireplace. Are any of you hungry? Dinner will be ready in about an hour, but we can get you something to hold you over.”

Yavia led them down the stairs. “All the bedrooms are down here.” She stopped at the first door on the left. It was the largest besides TK’s. Yavia opened the door. “Mr. And Mrs. Tenkiller, you’ll be in here. Mary you are right across the hall, and Abigail you are next to her. There are towels in the bathrooms and extra blankets and pillows in the wardrobes. If you need anything, though, just tell us.”

Yavia

Bump

“Donna and Cecil, my dear. We don’t go much for formalities.” Donna said and took Cecil’s arm and walked with him into the bedroom. Mary and Abigail went to their respective rooms as well to see where they’d be staying. Abigail was the first to come out. “Charles Tenkiller. How in the nine blazes did you of all people get a place like this?” and she gave a low, soft whistle. Charles, bringing the bags down, laughed. “I told ya, Abby… I’m really good at what I do.” He dropped off bags in the rooms and then stepped into the hall. “Okay. Y’all get settled and relax a bit. Dinner’ll be on in a bit, and we can all chat and whatnot. Tomorrow, I’m takin’ y’all back up to the platform and showing you around. Then we’ll show ya the city. V and Sharah might even be able to get some time off and come with us. And then tomorrow night, Dad and I’ll grill. Y’all make sides and bread. Sound like a plan?” Mary jumped up and down in excitement, but Abby looked at him with a cocked eyebrow. “You know you don’t get to order us around, little brother. We ain’t your little soldiers, now are we?” Charles’ smile slipped slightly and she stepped towards his sister. Donna started to speak, but Cecil put a hand on her arm. Charles looked down at Abby and said “No, you are not one of my agents. But you are in my home, Abigail. And that means you will give me a certain amount of respect. And while you are here, you are gonna do what I say. This ain’t Pawhuska… and not everyone here is gonna back down from you because they know who you are. Oed can be rough. So listen, learn, and try not to let your mouth write checks your ass can’t cash… got it?”

There was silence for a long moment and then Abigail exhaled slightly. “Ok. Fine. You are right.” and she looked at Donna who gave her a Mom look. Abigail looked back at Charles and said “And I’m sorry for disrespecting your home.” Charles nodded once and then said “Thanks. I appreciate that.” He looked around and said “Go on, y’all. Get freshened up. We’ll meet y’all upstairs.” and everyone turned and went into their rooms and Charles sighed and then went upstairs.

Tenkiller

Sharah had finished setting out drinks on the counter of the bar and had joined Yavia in the kitchen. Yavia had her using a simple metal device to peel, core, and slice apples.

Yavia had gone up the stairs to finish working on dinner. She and Sharah were chatting at the counter discussing Yavia’s last practice. They had their first real game soon. When TK came up the stairs she smiled. “They are lovely. I am absolutely certain Mary and I will get into lots of trouble together. And I will get a smile out of your dad before they leave to go home.” She laughed softly and rolled out a pie crust she had made earlier onto the flour she had sprinkled on the counter. She smiled at him, “You are very happy they are here. I can feel it.”

Yavia

“Happy, yeah. But there are some things I think I might need to iron out with Abby while they are here, thats for sure.” Charles said with a slight shrug.

Yavia nodded, “It will work out. Family can be hard, but it is worth it. Sharah and I can take a walk later if you need some privacy.” She finished placing the pie crusts in the pans. She walked around the counter and kissed him, keeping her hands out of the way. “Want me to make you a drink?” It was impossible for the two empathy to not feel the mild tension that had popped between them, though Yavia wouldn’t hazard a guess as to why, nor did she pry. TK would tell them when he was ready.

Sharah looked up at Charles. “Older siblings. Love them, don’t know what we would do without them, sometimes it goes to their head. It’s our job to keep them in reality.” She grinned. “I wish you could meet Eilah. He won’t get to visit though.” She finished the last apple. Yavia showed her what to do next. Sharah was fascinated with the process of cooking. She had no experience though, but it was something she was taking a delight in learning. Since her run on the Centurion she had bugged them constantly whenever anyone was in the kitchen.

Sharah

“He got posted to the Manhattan, yeah?” Charles asked. “Hell of a ship, from what I hear.” and he grinned. He knew the Manhattan’s Captain. They weren’t friends exactly; but they had a familiarity with one another.

Tenkiller

Yavia took out a cutting board and began to cut potatoes into thin slices and then dropped them into a large cast iron pan with a little oil. “That small bowl, Sharah, sprinkle it over the apples a little at a time and stir them until you’ve used it all.”

Yavia

Sharah picked up the small bowl, it smelled mostly of cinnamon and started sprinkling it over the apples. She nodded, “Yeah. All the way out in the Delta quadrant. I’m happy for him.” Her smiled conveyed her disappointment though. “It’s the kind of assignment he always wanted. He’s always been fascinated by new people and cultures. I miss him though. It’s been a long time since I’ve seen him.” She grinned at him, “But that’s the job.”

Sharah

“Sometimes, yeah…” Charles said and then looked away, seemingly in thought. “So has the great Charkes Tenkiller ever learned how to do any cooking besides grill work?” Abby said as she summited the stairs and walked into the kitchen. Charles took a breath and them said “Yeah. As a matter of fact, I even mastered Granny’s fry bread recipe. So there.” and he stuck his tongue out at her. She looked at him for a moment and then said “You’ll have to prove it before I believe it.” She smiled at Yavia and Sharah and said “Ok. So what can I do to help?” and literally rolled up her sleeves.

Tenkiller

“Ohhh, I love his fry bread. I’m going to get fat eating it.” Yavia chuckled as she fried the potatoes in the cast iron pan that had been her grandmother’s.

Sharah spooned the apples equally into the two pie crusts, by some unspoken direction from Yavia. Then she picked up a knife and began cutting long strips out of rolled out dough on the counter. “Charles cooks for us almost every day. His breakfast sandwiches are one of my favorites.” Sharah bumped Yavia’s hip with a grin. Fry bread and pawpaws would make her fat or diabetic.

Yavia grinned mischievously, “You can keep an eye on Sharah and make sure she doesn’t cut herself making strips for the lattice pie crust.”

“Hey! I haven’t gotten distracted since I got back from the Centurian,” Sharah gave Yavia a disgruntled look even as her eyes lit up at the warmth she felt, “and I’ve done five surgeries this week. I’m the best cutter at Sacred Heart.” She tossed her head, sending her black curls flying and gave Yavia a good stare before looking back at what she was doing.

Yavia tugged on one of Sharah’s curls gently. “Don’t you forget it, either.” She shared a warm look with TK. It warmed her heart to see Sharah express genuine confidence.

Sharah glanced at Charles from the corner of her eye. New found confidence she might have, but she still was never going to be completely comfortable with strangers. Which reminded her of their foolproof way of distracting her when she got overwhelmed. That memory made her flustered and turned her face bright red.

“No, but seriously,” Yavia said to Abby, “the yeast rolls need butter brushed over them and then put into the oven.”

Yavia

“Or you can help me with the pies, Abby. I’ve never done this before, so it will probably take me longer than it should.” The dough was flimsy and easy to tear. Weaving it wasn’t like working with yarn or paper strips, and it stuck to her fingers before she figured put the right amount of water and flour to coat her fingers with.

Sharah

Abby wordlessly moved next to Sharah and began to help her with the crust. Charles watched the three of them work and then silently turned and walked out the back door onto the patio, closing the door behind him. There was a brief flash of anger from him, as if he had been slighted somehow, but it was gone as fast as it appeared.

Sharah wanted to go after him. The anger and hurt were like her own, and she wanted to make him feel better. Sharah knew though that if Charles wanted her or Yavia to come out there with him, he simply had to think it. Instead she reached out gently and wrapped him in a warm hug full of love for a long moment. All the while she worked at placing the dough.

Once he was gone, Abby sighed. “Sorry. He and I don’t always see eye-to-eye. And I’m sure both of y’all can pick up on that.” A whisp of jealousy came from her, like a tendril of smoke from a dying fire, but then it too was gone. “So how did all three of ya end up a thing, hmm? Must be a story.” “Abigail Tenkiller.” came a low, deep male voice. “I done told you. No prying. You go on down and help your Mama get settled.” Abigail looked up at her father, who stood in the open archway between the kitchen and dining room, a look of judgement on his face. “Yes, sir.” She said, and there was a cymbal-crash of embarrassment and shame that erupted from her. She looked at Sharah and Yavia and said “Sorry.” She wiped her hands and hurried down the stairs.

Jealousy was hard, and Abby was hurting too. Sharah could tell. She let it slide past her though. It wasn’t her place to pry. She loved Eilah dearly, but they had their arguments and spats. Some much bigger than others. They had had to work through them on their own. No one could do that for them. Sharah patted Abby’s hand gently, once before she walked away.

Yavia smiled at Abby. Family could be complicated, and Yavia had a feeling Abby was unsure of her position in this new place, and for her own peace of mind needed tk clarify it. And well siblings had a knack for annoying each other. “No problem. Get settled. We’ll have plenty of time to chat.”

Her father watched her go down and then turned and looked at Yavia and Sharah and he smiled a somewhat tired smile. “Now don’t ya go an get me wrong… I do wanna hear that particular tale.” He looked back over his shoulder and scowled slightly before looking back. “But I wanna hear it with all of us around.” He leaned against the archway and smiled. “And I also wanna thank you girls. My boy ain’t never been happier than these past months. He had a rough row to hoe there for a bit… I’m glad to see that it paid off.”

Tenkillers

Yavia liked his smile. Even tired it made him look slightly younger, and TK’s resemblance to his father was even more apparent. She laughed softly. “Oh, we’ll be telling that story several times anyway. My grandmother and Sharah’s parents are visiting sometime. This will just give us a way to figure out the best, most dramatic way to tell it.” She gave him a cheeky grin.

“I don’t know much about when he was in Star Fleet, but he is well liked here,” Yavia said. “Thank you for saying so. He’s an easy man to love.”

Yavia

“Yes, he is.” Sharah laughed, “The nurses have turned him into a mascott for the hospital. There was quite the fight over him between Yavia and our head of physical therapy.” Sharah laughed harder as Yavia flicked water at her from her wet hands.

The raven haired woman sobered some though. “What he went through was inexcusable. Not many have the strength of spirit to continue through that type of adversity. We all have our trials.” Her voice carried heavy knowledge and experience. “If he hadn’t gone through it, he might not have left Star Fleet. And Oed is a better community for having him to watch over us.”

Cecil looked at Sharah and said “I agree… to all of that.” He looked at Yavia and said “Star Fleet did him dirty. I’m sure the good doctor here can fill ya in on it.” He shook his head and sighed. “That boy… joinin’ Star Fleet was one ‘a the proudest moments of his life. Right up there with when the Tribe made him an Elder. Damn shame they treated him like that… and for doin’ his job, no less.” He shook his head as if to clear the thoughts form his head.

Yavia smiled, “He told me about that. He is filled with a great pride and deep love when he speaks of his family and tribe.” Especially when he told her the stories of the Osage. That was a personal memory though.

Sharah let Yavia take over the pies as she buttered and then put the rolls in the oven. She looked up at Cecil, “Would you like a drink? We have just about everything.”

Sharah

Cecil looked around and said “Where did that boy get to? Grab me a beer, if ya would, and one for him, and I’ll go find him. Been a bit since he had a beer with his old man.”

Cecil Tenkiller

Yavia finished working on the lattice. She had been doing it for years and it didn’t take her long.

Yavia

Sharah set the heat proof mits on the counter and wipedbher hands on a towel. She moved behind the bar for the beer. She took a guess that Cecil would like what Charles did. She concentrated for a moment before she handed him the two frosted bottles. “He went outside. He was on the deck, but is walking along the east treeline now.”

Sharah

“Always did like being in the wild.” Cecil said with a smile. “Thank you, darlin’. If y’all excuse me.” and he turned and walked outside.

“I understand the need to listen when nature calls to you.” Sharah smiled, “You’re quite welcome.”

It took a minute or three, but Cecil eventually caught up with Charles. “Hey boy. C’mere. Have a beer with me.” Charles turned and smiled, and walked back towards his dad. Taking the beer, he said “I’m glad y’all could make it, Dad. Really am. How are things back home?” Cecil took a pull from the beer and said “Good.. good. Nuthin’ much changed. And you know thats how folks like it.” and he smiled. “The Shadlows are watching the place for us while we’re here. You remember Becky?” and Charles nodded. “Well, she got herself married to a good guy from Stillwater. Had herself a couple’a kids, and her oldest just got accepted to the Academy. Second one from Pawhuska heading out.” Charles nodded slightly. “Well, I hope he has a good run of it.” he said flatly. Cecil nodded slightly to himself and said “Yeah… me too.” He looked around the yard. “You got yourself a fine place, son.” Charles smiled. “Thanks. I like it.”

Inside, the three Tenkiller women came upstairs. Donna smiled at Sharah and Yavia, a wave of warmth and happiness washing over them. “Hello, ladies. Thank you both so much for allowing us to invade your home. If we get to be too much, just say so and we will get a hotel.” Mary smiled at that. “With a pool!” and Donna shook her head and grinned. “I promise we will find you a pool, okay?” Abigail was noticeably silent.

Tenkillers

“You aren’t invading. You’re family; our home is your home,” Sharah said quietly, but with a depth of warmth that included them all. “You have to stay, but only if you want to. There is plenty of room for everyone.”

“Oh I think I can handle the pool. Oed has a huge recreation center, and it has a pool. But Sacred Heart has a private pool for staff and family. I happen to know the chief of staff. I’m sure she will agree we’re all family and give me passes for you all. Don’t you agree Sharah?”

Sharah flushed and tossed Yavia a look. “Oh I’m sure you can convince the chief of staff to do anything for you.”

Yavia opened the bottom oven and pulled out a roasting pan with a pork loin in it. It had been slow roasting all day. Yavia used a rub made of salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, and onion powder. Then she made a glaze with honey, dijon mustard, garlic, soy sauce, and olive oil. She poured a little of the left over glaze over the pork while she kept it rest. The aroma was mouth watering.

She reset the oven temperature and slid the pies in. Then out of cabinets and drawers she pulled plates, silverware, napkins and such.

Yavia

Sharah walked back from the living room where she had been watering Hope and Charles’ White Snakeroot. They were on a table together by the window. “The men are outside. Do you three want something to drink? Dinner will be ready in a few minutes.” She was feeling incredibly shy and uncertain, but determined to not let it ruin the evening for anyone.

Sharah

Mary said “I almost forgot!” and rushed downstairs. Donna chuckled and Abigail sighed in exasperation. A few seconds later, Mary came back with a stasis box. She set it on the island in the kitchen. “Chuck said you liked this, and its my favorite, too.” Mary said as ahe opened the box. From inside she lifted a large three gallon blue jug. “Paw-paw juice.” she said triumphantly. “AND! I brought three seedlings. Chuck said Sharah likes to garden, so I thougt she might like ‘em.”

Yavia looked at the jug wide-eyed and grinned. “Oh, I knew you and I were going to get along.” She shook her head, “Three seedlings? We won’t see Sharah for days.” She took the jug and put it in the refrigerator and pulled out a pitcher and two glasses. She poured one each for her and Mary. “Anyone else?”

Sharah shook her head. Yavia, is the world coming to an end? You’re sharing paw-paw juice? Yavia’s mental response made Sharah laugh.

Donna walked over to Sharah and stood close to her, but not too close. When she spoke, her words were quiet but filled with warmth and a truly unsettling level of understanding. “You know… my mother was a gifted gardener. She could grow anything. But her favorite was Japanese Maple Trees. She loved the color of the leaves and how the tree would bend and twist to get just the right amount of light. She told me that ’ The truly beautiful things in our lives may grow in ways we never thought of.’” and she smiled while she looked out the window at Charles and Cecil on the far side of the immense back yard. “She also told me that you are very special. And that it was thanks to you and Yavia that Charles found his way back from the dark places. So thank you.”

Sharah smiled. It still bothered her to communicate with Mildred. Her gifts had never worked that way and she’d never heard of such a thing on Betazed. But so much was lost to them. She stared out the window at the two men, “He has weathered a storm that never should have been his to face. At first he didn’t like me at all because of the uniform. Knowing what happened to him, I couldn’t blame him. It makes me ashamed every time I put it on.” She shook her head. Her voice quiet and introspective. “Don’t thank me. That’s all Yavia. She healed him, and they saved me. They still are.”

She rested a hand on Sharah’s shoulder and leaned in and whispered “And I am glad that you could find your way back from the storm. Although I doubt any storm could actually best you. You are much stronger than you realize. And your light is wonderful to see.” She squeezed Sharah’s shoulder and then turned and walked back to the kitchen.

Tenkillers

Sharah turned, flushed, and watched Donna go back into the kitchen with the others. She wasn’t sure what to make of that brief conversation, but it was one she would never forget. Donna was a soothing warm presence.

She followed a moment later. She walked over to Abigail, “I have a few of my medicinal here, at the house. Most are in a special garden at the hospital. I know Charles wants to take you around tomorrow, but I would be happy to take you any time.”

Sharah

Abby looked first at Donna who didn’t say anything, just looked at her as if they were speaking telepathically but weren’t. Abby felt very anxious, with a succulent of animosity… but to whom it was unclear. Donna felt calm, like a leaf floating on a perfectly still pond. Abigail finally looked at Sharah and said “Yes, thank you. I would love to see your collection. Chu-… er, Charles… said you have a greenhouse here as well? I’d love to see it if you have the time.” Mary looked at Donna with a sense of almost fear, but Donna cal.ed ot with a subtle shake of her head.

Tenkillers

“Anytime. I can show you after we eat, if you like.” She looked at Yavia and back to Abby, “It was a surprise from them.” Had Sharah offended her? She’d only offered because Abby had mentioned it earlier. Well, Sharah would have offered anyway. She loved her plants and was always willing to share. Not even for a cure for herself would she offend Charles’ family. What had she done? Well Charles had said his father would be slow to come around. He wanted his son to go home and have children. Perhaps they just didn’t like Charles being involved with aliens. These things she kept quietly to herself, seemingly calm on the outside.

Yavia pulled the rolls out of the oven, put them in a towel lined basket and carried them and several condiments to the table to join the roast and potatoes. She felt the anxiousness and animosity from Abby as easily as Sharah did. Years of hiding how potent her talents really were kept Sharah’s expression and body language passive, but Yavia felt Sharah’s doubt and fear that she’d offended the woman. It was the last thing that Sharah wanted to do. Yavia glanced over at her with a grin. “Sharah, will you go tell those two fine examples of human masculinity,” she fanned herself dramatically, just to make Sharah laugh, “that dinner is ready, and I’m not holding it. They can come eat or fend for themselves.” She knew Sharah didn’t need to go outside to tell them, but it allowed her a moment to step back and breath, instead of hyperfocusing on what ifs.

She looked at Donna, Abby, and Mary. “Well come on and sit down. We’re all really happy you are here,” she led the way into the dinning room.

Yavia

Sharah took the reprieve. “Sure.” She turned and headed out the back door. She followed their essence without looking, approaching with care, so as not to interupt any private conversation they were having.

The two men were walking and talking softly, chuckling every now and then when Charles put a hand on his dad’s shoulder and stopped their walking and turned to look at Sharah as she approached.

“Yavia,” Sharah’s wasn’t going to repeat what Yavia actually said, “says food’s ready.”

Sharah

Charles smiled and said “Well then we better go back. She won’t wait for us.” and he laughed, as did Cecil. They walked to Sharah and Cecil smiled at her and said “Thank ya kindly for lettin’ us stay with y’all. I’m really lookin’ forward to gettin’ ta know ya.”

Sharah shook her head slightly. It wasn’t her place to tell them they could or could not stay. Besides they were Charles’ family, and he had picked this place so there was room for them to visit. Cecil’s smile was infectious though and she smiled back quietly. “There is no letting, you all belong here. Yavia and I are excited to have you all here.”

As they walked back, Cecil looked at Charles. “So that back porch of yours… looks like a good spot for some pickin’ and some grinnin’. You still playin’, boy?” and Charles smiled. “Yessir, I am. Play almost every day, and the girls seem to think it doesn’t sound too bad at all.” “Well then, maybe we should all have a little sing along after supper.” Charles smiled even bigger and said “I thought you’d never ask, Pop.” and the walked through the back door and into the dining room.

Tenkillers

Sharah loved his singing. Yavia more so, but not by much. Sharah chuckled. “Don’t tell Yavia until after dinner. Otherwise she might choke on her food in her haste to get done.”

The table was laden with the pork loin, fried potatoes, greenbean casserole, and fresh yeast rolls. It smelled wonderful, and the smell of warm apple pie was starting to come from the kitchen.

Sharah

Yavia looked up with a warm smile for all three of them and then stayed on Sharah. “Don’t tell me what?” Sharah looked at her innocently and shrugged as she sat down. “Fine keep your secrets,” her hand reached across the table and snagged the jar of apple butter and set it beside her plate. “None for you ‘til you tell.” Sharah’s amusement was palpable to the Deltan woman.

Donna and Cecil laughed softly at the exchange. Mary looked a little confused, but smiled. Abigail simply began serving herself silently, but cast an odd glance at Yavia as the Deltan woman inquired of her partners.

Yavia winked at Mary as if she would explain later.

“Well, help yourselves then.” She started passing dishes and then turned to TK, “You tell me.”

Yavia

Charles took two rolls and immediately his mind filled with images of his last CCDA Command meeting where they spent three and half hours arguing over the cost of coffee in the CCDA mess hall. “Uh-uh. Not happenin’.” He said with a grin and then looked across the table. “Pass the green beans, please.” he said.

Tenkiller

Sharah almost laughed at Yavia’s expression at Charles’ evasiveness. She passed the greenbeans as they were handed to her. She took a roll, salad, helped Yavia serve the pork loin. She was quiet, but she often was.

Sharah

Yavia glared at the two of them, but it didn’t last long before she grinned and started passing and serving. “What would you all like to see and do while you are here. I know Mary wants to go swimming.”

Yavia

Donna looked up and said “Oh, I definitely want to see outside the city. I’ve read a great deal about the comet strike.” and she shook her head. “I cannot imagine the sheer will it took st stay here afterwards.” Cecil chewed for a moment and then, after swallowing, said “I heard there’s all sorts ‘a restaurants and such around. Stuff from all over the galaxy. I wanna try somethin’ I ain’t never had before.” and Mary positively burst with excitement. “YES! I want to try gagh! I heard it’s worms! Worms with teeth!!” and she laughed…

Sharah knew exactly who could help them with that. She would ask Jal’na…

Until Abigail threw down her napkin and stood up. “No.. NO!! I will not be quiet or mind myself anymore!” she yelled. She pointed at Charles and said “You have a responsibility, goddammit! To the Tribe and to our people! And here you sit like it’s just fine that you are with these… these…” and she pointed back and forth between Yavia and Sharah, “… aliens!! We are some of the few hundred percent Osage in existance!! And you are gonna spoil that by screwing around with these two alien s/~ts!” Charles jumped to his feet, mask of rage on his face when Cecil stood up and said, calmly and quietly, “That. Is. ENOUGH.” while holding his hands up for silence. He looked at Charles and said “Sit, my son. This isn’t your fight.” “The hell it isn’t.” Charles said through clenched teeth. “No. I said sit down.” His words were calm and Eben, but the weight of them was palpable. Charles didn’t take his eyes off of Abby, but he sat down; waves of anger boiling off of him like steam from a rupture in the ground. Donna looked at Cecil and sighed, then she looked at Abigail. “Normally, I would scold you for being a racist and a bigot. But… you are a Medicine Woman. So instead of treating you like a daughter who has broken my heart… I will treat you like my student. And as such… you are going to learn.” Donna lifted her glass and took a drink, watching Abigail who had the good sense to be silent. Donna then looked at Yavia and Sharah. Nothing but affection and concern was in her words and heart as she spoke to the two women.

Yavia simply reached out and set a hand on TK’s arm. It was not a restraining action, but one of solidarity and support. Abigail called her a slut, and Yavia simply lifted glass and smiled coldly as she drank. She had certainly been called worse in her time. Yavia wondered what perfect self-righteous Abigail Tenkiller would do if Yavia turned her substantial Deltan charges on her. Wet herself most likely. But thought of that was gone as she realized the amount of distress Sharah was in and she was struggling with it. Which only made Yavia’s anger grow. The only thing bigger than Yavia’s outrageousness was her protective streak.

It was awful and unexpected and there was no way to ignore it or filter it at all. Anger, betrayal, jealousy, heart break, righteousness, shock, disappointment, shame, fear…it was like plasma rifles going off in a crowded concert hall and everything else dies except the horrible sound of weapons fire. It all poured into Sharah, filling her up and washing everything else away. Abby hated her, thought she was alien and strange and manipulative. It was every single horrible thing that had ever been hurled in Sharah’s direction.

“Yavia. Sharah. Abigail is wrong. All of us know this. But where we live does her a disservice. She only knows other members of our Tribe. Non-humans are rare, and that has instilled a sense of…”and she cast a look at Abigail that caused the woman’s face to go red with shame, “… well… racism. Species-ism, I guess is more close to it. Her views are hers, not ours and not the Tribe.” She looked at Charles. “Everyone is proud of you. And no one believes that you are doing us a disservice.” She looked back at Yavia and Sharah. “I always brag to the girls at the diner that my son is so handsome he landed a doctor and a nurse.” and she smiled. “And I show your pictures to them all the time. Everyone thinks you three look very happy together… and that is what matters to us.” She looked back again at Abigail who stood, chest heaving in anger as she glared daggers at Charles.

Donna watche Abigail a moment and then said “Yavia. Sharah. This may sound odd… but I would like to ask a favor of you.” She looked back at the two women and said “Take Abigail with you to the hospital. Show her where you work, the individuals you work with and treat. Make her see that what she thinks of as differences are actually bridges. And that with diversity comes strength. Would you do that? Please?”

Tenkillers

Visitors were not within Yavia’s powers to grant. However, she would not deny Donna’s request, but a response was stopped short by Sharah.

Yavia

Oh Sharah tied, she did, to control what wasn’t hers to control. To keep the swirling emotions from leaking out of her, to let it drown her and only her. It wasn’t to be though…

“Stop.” It came out through gritted teeth, but not anger, simply a bid for control. At the same time everyone in the room was hit by a wave of utter calm and doused in memories that evoked peace and safety. For Yavia it was her grandmother’s voice and perfume as they performed the cha’uud. It was unique for every person in the room.

Her chest heaved and tears leaked out of the corners of her eyes. All that emotion poured into her had to be expressed some how. Then it got quiet as her projected empathy took effect. She looked at Yavia and then Charles. She didn’t mean to do that. She could berate herself later. Right now Charles’ pain was all that mattered.

She stood up, walked around the table to stand between Charles and Yavia. She took his hand, holding it over his shoulder, and taking Yavia’s. Yavia took TK’s other hand. Their circle. Only for them could she be so bold.

She looked at Donna, “I have already offered ro take her and it stands. The offer is open to all of you.” She squeezed their hands and then looked at Abby. “I’m a medicine woman too.” She had no idea where that statement came from, but was certain beyond doubt it was true. Something that happened with Korczak. “Except I didn’t have anyone to teach me, and I falter a lot. So much so that it is a shame I will always carry. I am truly and deeply sorry for whatever it is that we did to offend you so significantly.” She paused for a breath. “Mildred told me I would find kindred souls in you all.” Sharah shook slightly, nerves and attempts to contain the emotions inside of her. It took all her control to be calm and not let the anger seep out through her. It wasn’t hers.

Sharah

Charles squeezed her hand and said “You didn’t do anything, Sharah. Nothing. Abigail is just… she’s so wrapped up in the idea of maintaining a ‘true Osage’ that she has never learned that being Osage isn’t about blood. It’s not genetics. Or ancestry. Or heredity or DNA or land rights or artifacts or dances or anything like that.” He stood up slowly and pulled Yavia and Sharah close to him. He looked at his father… then his mother… then his younger sister… and then Abigail. His whole body resonated with a deep and well-grounded pride that swelled and encompassed the three of them.

Yavia slipped an arm around him, while keeping hold of Sharah’s hand. She took a breath and let go of her anger. This was no way to start a new relationship. His pride was a glorious to feel and her own in him and her love for him and Sharah was reflected back.

Sharah rested against him and focused on that incredible feeling coming from them. It grounded her and helped so much.

“Being Osage… being a member of the Tribe… it’s about feeling, Abigail. It’s about feeling the connection between our brothers and sisters… parents… cousins… grandparents… aunts and uncles… friends… neighbors… loved ones. It’s about being a part of the community that makes us Osage. Not genetics. Yes, Abigail… we are a few of the few Osage who have always married other Osage. But where you think that is a sign if some kind of ‘purity’… I know it’s just a simple thread of fate. Our family has always been in the same place, surrounded by the same people… it makes sense that we have never married outside the Tribe. But that is a result of circumstance… not premeditation. I chose to leave and see the galaxy. But no matter where I was, how far away from my family and my Tribe… I have always been Osage. And I have met many others who I would be proud to call my brothers and sisters in the Tribe. And I know the Tribe would be better for it.”

Cecil smiled at Charles and then looked at Abigail. “That is why Charles is an Elder, daughter. He has always understood that Osage is not just a thing you are born into. It is a choice you make in every action… every relationship. You have never understood that. And that is why you have never been named Shaman. You do not possess the heart of us. And after tonight, I do not know if you even can.” He moved his chin in the direction of the stairs and Abigail flushed dark red as tears sprung to her eyes and she spun and ran… but not down the stairs, but out the door and into the evening shadows.

Yavia’s eyes were compassionate as she watched Abigail run out. It was always hard to know that everyone felt you were wrong when you felt so strongly about something. It didn’t excuse Abby’s behavior, but she knew her pride and feelings were hurt.

Sharah felt bad for Abby, even as her anger, frustration and hurt brought tears to her eyes.

Charles tapped his wrist communicator and said <Tenkiller to Ops. Set eyes on the figure that just left my home. Do not interfere, but keep her under surveillance. Contact Oed Police and have them on standby in case she gets in trouble.> There was a second of silence before a female voice said <Confirmed, General. We have eyes on target and will keep the wolves at bay as needed.> Charles looked at his parents and said “Oed is a wonderful place, and the vast majority of people are really good. But… every place this size has it’s dangers. We’ll keep an eye on her, keep her safe. Promise.”

Tenkillers

Yavia hugged him and then blew out a breath. “Well, now that the awkwardness is out of the way early I think we have all earned desert before supper. Or would some liquid fortification be better?”

Yavia

Sharah kissed his cheek and then Yavia’s. “I need a few minutes. I’m okay, promise.” She glanced at Donna, Cecil, and Mary. “Please excuse me.” She slipped out the back door and to the green house. It was the best place for her to release and let go of everything swirling inside her. Yavia and Charles both knew that, and though she didn’t want to be rude, she would rather let it rage and get out now than later. She wouldn’t leave the green house. She entered, sat down right in the middle of the ground and dug her fingers into the soil.

Sharah

After Sharah left, Cecil exhaled a long breath. He looked at Yavia and said “Girl, I am so sorry about her. D and I knew her… perspective… but honestly we thought she’d be mindful of her manners. Especially in someone else’s home. I’m embarrassed and ashamed.” and he looked at Charles. “Son… I-” and TK held up a gand and smiled at his father. “You have no need to apologize, Pop. You didn’t do it. And she is a grown-ass woman. It’s high time she started acting like it.” He reached down and took his Dad and his Mom’s hands. “We’re okay.” He looked at Mary and grinned. “And I got one sister I am super proud of and happy to see.” Mary smiled at him and said “Love you too.” Donna squeezed his hand and then Mary stood up and said “Excuse me. And don’t let Chuck eat my rolls!” and she turned and walked out of the room towards the stairs. Charles looked at Yavia and said “C’mon. Let’s all eat and the girls’ll be back soon.”

Yavia walked over and stood infront of Cecil. She didn’t touch him, just stared into his eyes. There was a gentle sense of stillness and peace that seemed to ask for permission to settle within him. “You are not to blame. We raise our children, we teach the young, but we are all responsible for our own actions. You have raised wonderful children. Abigail is not a bad person. Her actions are motivated by a deep pride, love, and care for her family and her Tribe. That is not bad, but she still has much to learn. For some of our journeys take much longer than others. Now she must decide how to move forward. We can only wait and see what she does.” Then she hugged him and then Donna. “Come let’s eat. Everything will be fine.”

Yavia

But Mary didn’t go downstairs. She waited until she heard the talking become light and conversational and then she snuck out the front door and went around to the greenhouse.

It was weird, at lest from Sharah’s perspective. Mary was silent. Not just in her movement, but in Sharah’s mind. She wasn’t there. At all. She had been before, but Herr in the greenhouse she seemed to just appear.

Sharah was unable to tell someone or so.ething had arrived. Not herself but the way the song fluttered and swayed as air moved when the door opened, the way the moss felt the pressure of feet that made no sound. Sharah was not aware of these things on a conscious level simply a d acceptance of how life rippled and changed.

The green house was stunning. In the middle was the enormous metal and glass sculpture of hope. Sometimes the water rained, others it misted, and sometimes it simply was damp. Every plant was lush and vibrant, from the smallest seedling to full grown trees. The light of Oed’s moon and al.ost set sun created a dazli g warmth of transition through the prismatic glass. Every surface was green and vibrant. The floor rather than being finished or hard packed during it was covered in soft spri gym turf moss. It was here that Sharah was sitting, hands flexed deeply into the soil.

“Hey. You okay?” she asked softly.

Tenkillers

Sharah was in what appeared to be a deep meditative state. She was, quite willingly on a different level of consciousness. One where instinct and life existed rather than higher order brain processes. What Sharah came to think of as the essential and most prime level of life.

The voice startled her. She opened her eyes. The light hadn’t changed at all. She hadn’t been gone long. She felt no emergency from the house so why were they already coming after her. At the same time it registered that the voice came with no presence at all. Sharah stood quickly with that slightly concerning revelation, before she reminded herself Charles would never let anything happen to her here.

She turned to find Mary standing there. Of course it was Mary. It tugged a little smile to the corner of her lips. She was disappointed to have been interrupted so soon. Everything felt chaotic and out of control inside, and she had a simmering anger and heartache that would spill out in the wrong direction.

She smiled at Mary though. She meant well and Sharah was strange and quirky at the best of times. “You and your brother are very good at sneaking up on people.”

Sharah

Mary looked at Sharah for a long moment with a look if curious intensity. Then, without warning, she reached up and placed her hands on either side of Sharah’s head.

It was like a circuit completed in her head, and there was a bright flas of bluish-green light… and then the hurt and anger that had been fostered with Abigail’s outbursts was simply… gone. Mary let go of her and smiled. “Better? My sister has that effect on people sometimes. My parents excuse it as her just being overly devoted to the Tribe. Personally, I think she’s just a racist bitch.” and she grinned.

Mary Tenkiller

It was an unexpected kindness. It reminded her of Kenzo. It had unexpected consequences for him. She didn’t want her problems to affect Charles’ sister, or anyone else for that matter. Sharah grabbed her hands with a soft squeeze, let go, and gently stepped back. “You are kind, thank you.” It wasn’t quite so simple a solution, but what was left begind was all Sharah. It was a blessed relief, no matter how short lived. It was strange though. The headband gave her relief, the cave did too, but this was very very different, but there was something slightly familiar about it. Sharah couldn’t place what it was.

“Don’t be so hard on her.” Sharah turned to one of the shelves, hands running over the plants as if giving them a physical exam. She would pick up different things and prune/water/feed each one. “Her heart is in the right place even if her methods are abrasive. She’s afraid but unable to admit it. And jealous, strongly so.” Sharah shrugged, “People can’t help how they feel, only how they react to it.”

Sharah

Mary chuckled. “Right. But you can choose not to be a bitch.” and she laughed. She smiled at Sharah and sighed softly, her eyes looking for… something. “You really love my brother a lot, don’t you?” she asked.

Mary Tenkiller

The corner of her mouth twitched slightly at Mary’s agreement. Mary wasn’t wrong, but it wasn’t in Sharah to judge so harshly. Abby could choose to take a different approach, but Sharah understood how difficult it was to temper how emotions affected one’s actions.

Sharah’s onyx gaze met hers as Mary stared at her. Her eyes sparked and her cheeks flushed softly. “I do.” She turned back to a small pot with a very weak looking plant. It was gently anchored to a small stick; she took a small bottle off the shelf with a yellowish purple liquid and gently turned over each leaf and sprayed the concoction on them. “He is a very easy man to love. His is a soul untarnished despite the storms he’s faced.”

Sharah

Mary laughed out loud. “Ha! If’n he heard you say somethin’ like that around him, I bet he’d have a word or two for you.” and she laughed again. “But it is nice to see him happy. He wasn’t… not for a loooooong time. I’m glad he didn’t carry all that weight around forever. It was gonna do him in.”

Sharah knew he carried the scars, but his soul was untarnished. Many who went through what he did would let go of their morals and ethics. She smiled softly. She wasn’t sure Charles would argue with her. He and Yavia knew in a way others didn’t that she saw and felt the universe differently than others. The good and the frightening, the pleasure and the pain. Her comments never diminished what people had been through. “Oed is good for him, and he’s good for all of us. He and Calvin are doing an incredible job.” She remembered how deeply those scars ran and how easy it was for them to be opened. She remembered with vivid detail how Eela’s careless comments wounded him.

Her voice trailed off for a moment as her eyes unfocused and she seemed to be remembering something. Then suddenly, she looked back at Sharah and said “Hey! Did you know Chuck is a quickdraw artist? Like… super fast. Did competitions and everything. Did you know?”

Mary Tenkiller

“No, but I’m not surprised.” She turned and set the plant on a higher shelf and then leaned back against the work bench. “With the arsenal he has it’s more than just a hobby. Of course I’ve seen his Fleet service record. He dared me to read it and find out how he got the name ‘Skip’.”

Sharah

“You’d be surprised if you saw him, I bet.” and she mimicked drawing a gun from her hip and made pew-pew noises. She then stopped and looked at her and smiled. “Ya know… more than a few of the girls back home needed to shove their head in a pail of cold water after seeing him all decked out for a competition. Spurs, boots, gun belt… hat.” and she laughed. “I always teased ‘em, too. Told ‘em I ain’t never seen a woman get so worked up over a guy who finished so fast.” and she eyed Sharah to see her reaction.

Mary Tenkiller

The mention of the hat made her stomach flutter. She couldn’t imagine anyone not needing to cool off seeing him all dressed up. She could see it too. She’d had a good long look at him leaned up against the wall at the PE, shirt, jeans, boots, and that hat pulled down over his eyes. It didn’t take much to add spurs and a gunbelt to the picture. She remembered how he kissed her too. Her pleasant revere was abruptly halted at Mary’s last comment. It made Sharah quite uncomfortable. She understood quite well what Mary was getting at, but Sharah was not comfortable in such discussions. Unlike most Betazoids she was very private about such things. Her childhood made sure of that.

Yavia on the other hand…would give Mary a run for her money. “I think we should go eat before they come looking for us.” She opened the door, the cool evening air, only slightly cooling her cheeks. She waited for Mary and then hurried back inside. She went into the kitchen and washed her hands before joining them back at the table.

Sharah

Mary was grinning as they entered the dining room and she took a seat. Charles looked at her, looked at Sharah, saw the blush on her cheeks and grinned at Yavia. “So… you ladies have a nice chat?” he asked. Donna ignored his inquiry, reaching across the table to take Sharah’s hand. “I’m so sorry. Not for Abby’s words or actions; those are her own shame to bear. I am sorry that you were hurt by them.” and she squeezed Sharah’s hand before letting go.

Tenkillers

Sharah nodded with a soft, “Mmhmm.” She focused on her drink not answering Yavia’s silent inquiry. Oh she had every intention of telling Yavia, later, when she wasn’t so flustered. Yavia would enjoy the mental picture as much as Sharah did.

Yavia flashed a grin back at TK. She focused on Sharah a moment, but Sharah was stubbornly mentally silent. Yavia grinned wider and winked at TK and then gave Mary and curious look.

Yavia

Charles family was very physically demonstrative. It made Sharah feel a bit off balance. She was always so careful about when and who she came into physical cintact with. She wouldn’t change the Tenkillers for anything.

She gave Donna’s hand a gentle reassuring squeeze back before Donna withdrew. “Hurt is the chance you take when you allow yourself to be open to making connections to others. It is a consequence that is far outweighed by the rewards.” She met and held Charles’ gaze for a long moment and then Yavia’s. It spoke volumes. Her expression said it all - having them in her life was worth any consequence she was required to endure. Then she turned quietly back to her food.

Sharah

Mary smiled broadly at Yavia and said “I told Sharah about Chuck’s quick draw expertise. I think it shocked her a bit, is all.” and she smiled and wi ked at Sharah. Charles looked at her through narrowed eyes and said “And just what, exactly, did’ja tell her?” Cecil chuckled and shoved almost an entire roll in mouth and Donna pulled both her lips between her teeth trying not to smile. Mary grinned even bigger and said “What? I just told her that you were superfast on the draw and that a lotta folks found that very… impressive.” and Cecil almost chocked trying not to spit his roll across the table.

Tenkillers (Goving Grief Is A Family Affair)

Sharah focused on her food and did not look at Mary at all. She knew exactly what everyone meant and what they were thinking and what they felt about it. Even the things tangentially related. It made her uncomfortable. It always had, but at least she didn’t go screaming from the room like she had as a child. She glanced across the table at Yavia one brow raising slightly with a mental sigh.

Sharah

All at once Yavia got the whole thing from Sharah. Sharah had been honestly discussing TK’s proficiency with all the different weapons he owned, and Mary had turned it into some much more risque. Sharah was mature and knowledgeable in many ways, but in others she was still very innocent and scared. Yavia admitted though that Sharah’s mental picture of TK all decked out was delicious. She’d have to tell TK to make sure to dress up like that for Sharah some time. Her lovers would both appreciate the effect.

So many comments came across Yavia’s mind, but she didn’t want to send Sharah running for her room either. “That’s because what comes after is the best part and deserves the most attention.”

Yavia

It was Cecil whoanaged to change the subject. Checking down the roll with the last half of his beer, he wiped his mouth and cleared his throat. “So, Boy… you still pickin’ that there guitar of yours?” and his eyes darted to Mary and he said “NO comments!” Mary looked at him with mock indignation, but remained silent.

Charles nodded once and said “Yessir, I am. Me and a couple’a friends even did a show at a club while back. Yavia and Sharah were there, in fact.” Dinna smiled at him and then at the two women. “He always had a talent.” Mary bit her tongue and looked at her brother who looked back with a slightly embarrassed smile and mouthed Stop! silently at her, causing her to put her napkin to her face and try really really hard not to laugh. Cecil shook his head at her, but smiled before saying “Well, maybe you an’ I can do some pickin’ out on that back porch of yours. You up for a little jam session?” Vharles smiled and said “Always up for playin’ with ya, Pa.” The elder Tenkiller nodded once and said “Good. Then y’all eat and then we’ll bust out the strings and see if we can still make your Mamma dance.” Donna smiled broadly and said “Only if Yavia and Sharah join me.”

Tenkillers