Fragments and Omens (Worlds of DS9, Vol. 2) Spoiler

S P O I L E R

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FRAGMENTS AND OMENS

As in "Worlds of Deep Space Nine" book 3, also book 2 contains a more
serious, darker story and a lighter one. But what I especially welcomed
is that after the ugly break up of the Ezri Dax/Julian Bashir
relationship (a decision that, as I said, makes little sense to me and I
also don`t like the way it was written) it has a beautiful love story I
enjoyed a lot. When I read in book 3 that Jake married so suddenly and
quickly I was somewhat worried but I could read that this is certainly
not a relationship mainly based on sexual attraction. I think they have
a lot in common and not only because they are both artists. Jake
certainly matured a lot, especially since "Rising Son". What I was also
glad about is that Jake is still writing. His look at old Bajoran
stories could become very interesting in the context of DS9 Relaunch
whenever they will be made public. I liked Jake and Rena`s discussions,
they also made me think sometimes. I liked the insights into the
"ordinary" life on Bajor and its rich culture. That Rena is Korena from
"The Visitor" is a really nice twist and like Sisko, I am also wondering
what this actually means.

I think the title of this story fits perfectly. It contains several more
character based elements that make you wonder about things to come.
Another one is about a man called Hovath and his wife, who are
presumably the only survivors of a village that was destroyed by an
unknown enemy. To me there is little doubt what frightened them so much:
The woman must have looked like Kira Nerys. My first instinctive
reaction was, this must be the Intendent. But after thinking about it, I
am not so sure about that. Why would she bother with this village and
Hovath`s insights into the wormhole and the Prophets? I assume it is a
Changeling using Kira`s form. It is not one of the stories I am mainly
interested in but I admit, I am somewhat curious to find out who
actually did it and why.

I liked the short chapter about Vaughn and his medical. I think it was a
good idea to point out that Vaughn is hardly a superman and that his
fitness in spite of his age has limits and is not something to be taken
for granted. In this novel within this book more bits and pieces were
mentioned that make me curious if/when we will learn more of his past. I
admit it, I smiled when it was mentioned that Vaughn knows what happened
on Garon II. This is definitely a story I want to read some day. Vaughn
seems to be involved in pretty much every mystery in the Trek universe.
On the one hand, it is sometimes a bit much, but on the other, it is
part of it that makes this character so fascinating so that I am not
really complaining. I chose from the beginning to see this first of all
with a sense of humour. I understand that one day Vaughn will indeed
have to accept that he is no longer physically fit enough in order to be
in active duty, at least the duty he is doing right now. I am sure he
could be able to have a new career in a less physical field, like
teaching or diplomacy, but me personally, I am hoping Vaughn will be
around as Kira`s first officer for many years to come. I just like this
character too much.

What was also interesting to read are the consequences concerning the
Militia and Starfleet concerning the transfer of personnel. Not that I
read anything surprising but nevertheless, it was insightful. I agree,
it is important to revive the post of liaison to the Militia. What I
read about Cenn is very positive and interesting. I am also looking
forward to read more about Vedek Solis who could very well be the next
Kai. It seems he would be a good choice, too. Unfortunately I can`t even
remember if we ever learned something about Asarem`s ex-husband but I
get the feeling from reading this story, he would indeed be the kind of
representative Bajor needs. I certainly like her aide, Theno. He is
capable and funny at the same time.

I enjoyed the family scenes in Sisko`s house a lot and it was nice to
see that baby Rebecca was very much a part of it. I understand very well
that Sisko first of all wants to spend his time with his wife and new
baby now but nevertheless, I am wondering what part he will play in
future in DS9 Relaunch.

It seems it will be a while until I will be able to read more DS9
Relaunch, especially with the new schedule of having one instead of two
mass market paperbacks a month. I just hope, it won`t be too long.

Baerbel Haddrell