Yssa was born into the Bajoran resistance during the height of the Occupation of Bajor by the Cardassians in 2349. Her parents were co leaders of their cell and taught their children everything they knew. She was the third of four children. In 2358 her parents were killed during a failed attack on a Cardassian mining operation which led to their rebel camp being uncovered. Yssa gathered all the young children and hid further up into the hills as she heard the sounds of the attack... the death screams of those she called family continues to ring in her ears.
She was able to elude capture for a few weeks but eventually the Cardassians caught up with them. Herding them to Gallitep where she experienced first hand the hell that was within that fence. Daily she watched as people were taken away never to be seen again. True to her calling she continued to attend to all the children of the camp.... becoming their teacher, mother, friend and protector, which didn't help her baby brother who died of illness while in captivity which devastated her. During her time in the camp she met and became close to a fellow Bajoran. But his time planet side was limited for he spent most of his time on Terok Nor. Eventually in 2366 after months of planning they were able to escape, though it tore at her heart to leave their people and planet behind.
Once safely within Federation borders, she was able to move forward with her life. As luck would have it she was accepted into Starfleet Academy where she was joined by her love. Their romance continued through the Academy until they were separated due to assignments. She graduated from the Academy at the top of her class and had her pick of any assignment. For her first she chose the USS Pegasus, where she garnered much respect.
She served on various ships of the line during the Dominion War, serving with distinction and valour. The end of the war had her rethinking her life and career... a bit listless. She accepted a position as a teacher, embracing fully the new direction her career was taking. |
