Rahel stood on the banks of the lake looking out over the calm waters. It had been her first day off since taking her job, though she had her communicator with her just in case of an emergency that couldn't wait. The air was chilled and a brisk wind blew into her, brushing her blond hair off her face.
As she looked out across the waters of the lake, she had the feeling of being almost lost. She had wanted this posting since it was the only one that offered both her and Logan a place together. It had also brought her a promotion, but there was a sense of defeat. In all the time they'd had to look for her twin sister, they'd failed . . . and she felt as if she was out of options.
But she had to admit to herself that she did like Serenity. It was beautiful . . . and her work was fulfilling, though it wasn't as nearly chaotic as her previous postings had been. Though she also treated many of the civilians of Lake Town, there were periods of time where she wouldn't see a single patient and she honestly didn't like the quiet time. It gave her too much time to think. But she had a feeling that in time, it would change and she would start to see more patients. The Lake Town was still developing its identity, but was becoming something of a tourist attraction, especially the legend of the monster in the lake.
Lost in thoughts of what had happened and dreams of what she wanted encompassed her mind so fully, she didn't sense anyone approaching from behind.
"Kind of peaceful." A male voice commented from behind her.
Rahel turned to see the face of a stranger and the source of the comment. He was dressed in a Starfleet uniform, similar to Rahel's, except for the three gold pips on.
"I assume you are Lieutenant Commander Kahfre?" The man continued, his question making him sound a little unsure. "The Security officer at the space port said she'd seen you heading for the lake."
"And you are?" Rahel replied, providing an answer with a question.
"Commander William Hancock.." The man introduced himself. "...but my friends call me Will."
Suddenly Rahel realised who this man was. He was the CMO for Serenity City, a colleague in arms and for the time being her superior officer.
"I was on my way back to Serenity City and thought I'd call in here and introduce myself." William stated. "Just finished a medical clinic at one of the remote villages up north."
"Rahel Kahfre..." Rahel replied, holding her hand out.
Doctor Hancock shook Rahel's hand, released it and moved towards the edge of the lake, standing next to Rahel looking across the water.
"So how do you like Serenity?" Will asked. "Must seem a little quiet after serving on a starship for so long."
"It's certainly different..." Rahel replied. "... but I keep myself busy..research and stuff."
"I'm glad to see that Starfleet finally managed to find someone to take the position." Will admitted. "I used to get a call a day from the spaceport, only to find it was nothing serious and could have either waited until morning or the patient could easily have come to Serenity City for treatment. At least it will be you who gets woken up at three from now on."
"I hope that doesn't happen too often ?" Rahel stated.
"So do I.." Will replied. "..last time it not only woke me up, but the kids as well."
"You have kids.." Rahel asked. ".. You don't look old enough."
"Two." Will announced proudly. "Twins to be precise, a boy and a girl."
Rahel sensed something from Will, a sense of sadness and loss, but she decided not to pry too deeply, the idea of twin children reminded her of her own past and her lost sister.
"They're my partner's actually. well, one is mine, but that's a story in itself and for another time maybe." William continued. "What about you, do you have any children yet?"
"No..." Rahel replied. "..although my partner does have a daughter. I've never met her myself and Logan doesn't have that much contact with her, but I know that he misses not being there for her. She lives with her mother and the relationship ended a long time ago."
"Speaking of missing, I'd better head back to the spaceport." Will announced. "I'm supposed to be home for dinner."
The two officers left the tranquil setting of the lake shore and headed back towards the town and the space port, continuing their conversation.
back to TOC