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Chapter 17 - Thirteen

That evening, any number of small scenes played out.

On a transport to Earth, Wesley Crusher sat and daydreamed about Lakeisha. On the Cookie, Majira, Xo and Daniya sat together and played cards, laughing and telling jokes.

A large file, finally completely compiled, went to Geordi. A similar one, also ready, went to Harriet Caul. His file was of all of the close area ships' transporter records, with anyone with a radiation band of less than twenty-one centimeters highlighted. Caul received similar information, but it was for Starfleet Academy and Starfleet Headquarters.

As Doctor Crusher walked to her quarters, she stopped suddenly, realizing something. "Huh," she said to no one. She looked at the jersey, which was in her hands. "I think I understand," she murmured.

When she got to her quarters, she dictated. "Personal log, September fifteenth, 2379. Today I met Commander Madden's cousin, Dana MacKenzie. The conversation turned to the cousin marriage law. Both of them expressed their opinions as to that law's problems. I also observed that they both seemed to be a bit distraught. It is my considered opinion that the law directly affects them." She paused to consider something. "Computer, write a letter."

Ready

"To Dana MacKenzie, Coach of the Black Sheep Team.

Dear Dana,

I want to thank you for your gift, and I'll see when I can wear it out and about. I'll be getting leave pretty soon so I'll be sure to take it with me.

I also found our discussion of Federation law to be rather interesting. All I can say is that an unjust or unfair or poorly drafted law should be challenged. I think that's almost our duty as Federation citizens.

Thanks again.

Best wishes,

Beverly Crusher."

She paused for a breath. "Computer, send letter."

=/\=

Marty walked Mack back to her guest quarters, "Uh, I'm sorry," he finally blurted out. "I'm, I'm sorry for everything."

Mack was about to respond when Geordi spotted them in the hallway. He came over. She commented, "My cousin here tells me you and I are related somehow."

"I'm not sure of the particulars," Geordi admitted. "We're also related to Lieutenant Mike Daniels. Have you met him yet?"

"I haven't," Mack admitted. "I guess we've all got a lot more family than we ever thought."

"There's a botanist, too," Geordi pointed out, "She was here a year ago. Her name is Lilienne Hayes."

"Doesn't ring a bell," Mack admitted. She yawned. "Excuse me! I'd better turn in. G'night Cousin Geordi."

He grinned at her. "See ya."

Marty followed Mack into her guest quarters. "He's nice," she commented. "But he's a little nervous around women, I think."

"Maybe," Marty's eyes were far away. "Mystic, I, uh ...."

"Don't," she said softly, putting two fingers over his mouth. He kissed them. "Damn," she added, "I, uh, this is so difficult. I suspect the best thing, the easiest thing, would be for me to go, much as it pains me."

He bit his lower lip. "I wish I knew the right thing to do, the magic answer to everything. It's not so clear anymore, Black Sheep." He took a breath. "And, uh, I believe that the next thing that'll happen will be a family reunion."