<<Captains Ready Room>>

"...How much of it did they classify?", Mallory asked.

"Just about all of it.", Epic replied. "Quite frankly, they hardly allowed any information that I couldn't determine myself by simply looking at you."

Eve said nothing. Epic continued.

"So, I'll tell you what I do know.

"You display all the emotional affectations of a skilled medical care provider. You are an efficient and competent officer with an inexhaustible capacity. You show all the qualifications and talents to make you an excellent Asst. Science Chief: Technical. And you can take a full phaser blast, on a `kill' setting, and walk away with only a ruined

uniform."

The last detail Epic mentioned with something between incredulity and accusation. But after saying it, Epics tone softened.

"Eve. I once held a deep suspicion that you were in some way associated with the Borg. Even now, I am not certain that your current condition is not in some way related....." He leaned forward and touched her hand. The unexpected gesture caused her to flinch.

"But, Eve. On board the Nova, you stopped me from making a terrible mistake. You saved Thad Munsons life. You saved little Kaede Kaje's life. And you saved my soul."

She stared at him. It was all Eve could do.

"I never even thanked you for that. But, I do now." He squeezed her hand gently.

"Thank you."

Then, he leaned away from her and let go her hand.

"And welcome aboard. As I said before. It is good to see you again."