"Chief of Security's Log: Stardate 49611.9

After introducing new training methods to my security officers I find some of them already improved their handling with the newly shown weapons. It will be only a matter of time until they all are capable of using these weapons as professional as they now do use their phasers.

Captain Price has informed me, that a delegation of Tholians will shortly arrive at the Galaxy. They will open negotiations for admittance to the Federation of Planets aboard the Galaxy. Captain Price ordered Lieutenant T'Lein and me to modify the V.I.P.s quarters to fit their environmental needs. I will shortly meet with the new Chief Operations Officer to coordinate our efforts.

This could be a very important mission for the Federation, but I don't trust these delegates by now. I'll keep an eye on them while they are aboard."

While ordering the computer to close the current log file, Lieutenant T'Lein entered Joerg's office. Joerg immediately stood up and greeted T'Lein.

"We have no time for this now Mr. Sterner." the vulcan quickly answered Joerg's attempt to be friendly.

"The Tholians will soon arrive here and we'll have to adjust their livings quarters before they arrive."

"I understand." Joerg replied.

"Do you have the specifications for the changes?" Joerg asked.

"It's all in here." T'Lein said and handed him a PADD.

Joerg took it and began to read it. Some moments later he looked up and addressed T'Lein.

"This should be no major problem Lieutenant. I'll order some of my team to begin immediately with the changes. I myself will oversee the process and I also invite you to help my if problems should occur."

"I certainly will be present to help you with the configuration." T'Lein calmly answered.

After that Lieutenant Sterner called some of his personal and ordered them to meet him in front of guest quarters. Both Sterner and T'Lein left the security office and were on their way to the guest quarters. Arriving there some of Joerg's team and some sections officers already awaited them.

T'Lein and Sterner explained the modifications that are necessary for the delegates and the lack of time they have to complete this task. They all started to work at once and T'Lein was pleased with the progress. Some time later Lieutenant T'Lein was called back to the bridge, but he was sure that the preparations will be completed in time.

The time of the meeting with the Tholians came closer and everything seemed to be perfect. Suddenly a thought came to Joerg's mind. 'I have forgotten to change into my dress uniform.' he thought. Quickly he gave some last minutes orders and ran towards the nearest turbo list. While in the lift he checked in his mind, if everything had been prepared for. Relieved that he found nothing he hadn't forgotten, except his dress uniform, he entered his cabin and quickly changed his uniform.

Arriving back at the guest quarters, everything was ready for the delegates. Relaxed, Joerg went off to meet with the other officers at the shuttlebay to wait for the arrival of the V.I.P.s.

Lieutenant junior grade Joerg Sterner
Chief of Security -- USS Galaxy NCC-70637
http://users.aol.com/captprice/galaxy/index.htm

"Greetings Terrans," Coe smirked when he heard the comment, He knew Lt T'Lein would not appreciate the remark. The Tholians stepped of the runabouts ledge and began to walk slowly toward Coe and the rest of the awaiting party. When the Tholians had got a safe distance from the runabout, The ship once again lifted of the Galaxy and returned to the Tholian ship. Captain Price met the Tholians half way and was obiously introducing himself, before giving the " Attention" Command and allowing the head of the Tholian delegation to inspect the rest of the awaiting party. Captain Price arrived at Coe and introduced him to the head Tholian.

" This is Lt Coe, he is chief tactical officer aboard Galaxy and is responsible for handling the ships offensive, and defensive weapons..."

" I KNOW what a tactical officer is Capain Price!" Price seemed taken aback by the arrogance and rudeness of the Tholian. But recovered nonetheless.

" Of course..."

" Lt Coe, I would be greatful if you would show me the ship's tactical command center,"

Coe lied for a response, " I would be happy to." And tried to put on a good face.

The Captain continued to introduce the ships commanding officers before placing Commander Jamson in charge of escorting the Tholian delegation to the waiting guest rooms. Once the Tholians had left the shuttlebay, Price dismissed the Officers. On there way out, Price caught up with Coe.

" Well Jt, it's going to be a hell of a mission!" Coe just smiled.

Chris N
AKA: Lt. Johnathon Thomas Coe
Chief Tactical Officer USS Galaxy

Captain Price looked at the five Tholian Delegates as they stood before him in the shuttle bay. Taking a step forward, he offered his greetings.

"Welcome on board the USS Galaxy. I am Captain Price."

One of the Tholians also steps forward to meet with the Captain.

"Pleased to meet you Captain Price. I am Juraud." The Tholian's universal translator made his voice sound cold and mechanical. "And these are my associates, Yurquib, Olmondi, Myrid, and Bhakaut."

The Tholian pointed to each of his companion delegates. "They all look alike" Captain Price though to himself.

"Allow me to introduce my Senior officers. This is Commander Jamson my first officer. Over here he have Lieutenant Coe, my Chief Tactical Officer,..."

Captain Price was interrupted as one of the Tholian delegates, Bhakaut, interjected his desire to inspect the Galaxy's tactical systems. Lt. Coe politely, accepted.

"As I was saying,... this is my Chief Operations Officer T'Lein, Over here is T'Nevin, my Chief Science officer. Next to him, our Chief medical Officer, Doctor Rousseau." As Captain price is introducing everyone, he gets the distinct feeling that to the Tholians, his crew all looks alike as well!

"Over here the ship's Chief of Counseling, Mr. Shivok. Next to him our newest addition to my Senior staff Ensign Ti. She's the Galaxy's Chief Helmsman. Standing next to her is my Chief of Security, Lieutenant Sterner. He and Lieutenant T'Lein were responsible for making the environmental adjustments to your living quarters as you requested. Finally, this busy fellow is our Chief of Engineering, Lieutenant Capizzi."

Again Captain Price is interrupted by one of the Tholian delegates, this time Olmondi. "I would like to see engineering specifications of USS Galaxy. A Tour would be most appreciated at busy Chief Engineer Lieutenant Capizzi's earliest opportunity."

Steve glanced at the Captain. He enjoyed showing people the ship, and touring his department, as it let him show off his wonderful crew and this fine ship. But he was not sure if it was wise to allow the Tholian's access, or if the Captain would allow it. The Captain blinked slowly, giving the Lieutenant his approval.

"I would be happy to show you the engineering section. Just let me know when you have settled in and are ready for a tour and I will schedule it."

"I am ready now." again the synthetic voice of the translator made it 'feel' as though the crew was facing a delegation on robots on helium. Steve did a double take, not expecting the 'diplomats' from Tholia to want a tour right this instant. Before he had to reply, Juraud interrupted.

"We require nourishment and rest. It is a three Terran day journey to Rigel 7. Chief Engineer Lieutenant Capizzi can schedule a tour for Olmondi during one of those times."

Olmondi turned and looked at the Tholian leader Juraud, then without saying anything stepped back behind him with the others.

"If you would be so kind Captain Price. We would like to inspect the living quarters that Chief Operations Officer T'Lein and Chief of Security Lieutenant Sterner have provided. Our suits are tiresome to wear."

Captain Price nodded in understanding. "Of course Juraud. Lieutenants Sterner and T'Lein, please escort the Delegates to their quarters and show them how to operate the environmental controls."

Both of the Captain's officers nodded in acknowledgment.

"These officers will show you to your quarters. Counselor Shivok will be available should you have any questions or require any assistance." After glancing at the Tholians for a moment with no response, Captain Price adds, "Then that does it. Welcome aboard the Galaxy. I'm sure you should find your trip comfortable."

"Thank You Captain Price."

Lieutenants T'Lein and Sterner lead the Tholian Delegation out of the shuttle bay to show them to their quarters. Captain Price waited until they left before turning to his remaining Senior officers. He smiled as he watched them all physically relax and exhale.

"Thank you 'mates for the 'dog and pony show'. You can change into your regular uniforms if you like." The Captain's words brought smiles to most of the officer's faces. T'Nevin had practically had his jacket collar undone the instant the Captain had spoke the words. "You're all Dismissed."

"Captain. May I have a word with you?" Counselor Shivok said with a concerned look on his face.

"Of course Counselor. What is it?" The Captain and Mr. Shivok waited until the rest of the Senior staff had exited the Shuttle bay before continuing.

"It has to do with the Tholian Delegation. Though it is difficult to pinpoint because of the space suits that they wear, I was picking up strong emotions from one of them."

"What sort of emotions? Curiosity? Eagerness? Anger?"

The half Betazoid, half Vulcan looked at Captain Price as he raised his eyebrow slightly. While true those feelings were all expressed by different Tholians, it was plainly so from the spoken conversation.

"No Captain. Terror. I was sensing one of the Tholian's fears of what is going to happen during this trip."

The Captain's expression changed. "Why would they be afraid? Of us? That makes no sense."

"I agree Captain. But none the less, that is what one of the Delegates was feeling. I will keep a close watch on them while they are on board. It may be nothing, but in the briefing you said you wanted to be kept informed."

"Yes Shivok. You've done well. I will keep it in mind."

The Counselor nodded, then turned to exit the shuttle bay. Captain Price stayed and watched as the Tholian run-a-bout relaunched to return to the Cyonia. Once the shuttle was safely back on the mother ship, Captain Price tapped his comm badge.

"Captain Price to Bridge."

"Lieutenant Kane here Captain." the engineering officer had a tone of authority in his voice as he spoke from the command chair of the bridge for the very first time.

"The Tholian run-a-bout has cleared the shuttle bay and is back aboard the Cyonia. You are clear to set course for the Rigel system. I will be in my quarters if I'm needed. Price out."

"Aye sir." Lieutenant Kane replied before the channel closed. Glancing around the bridge, Kane could see Ensign Casey was at the Ops station, next to Ensign Kopitz at the Helm. "Lay in a course to the Rigel system Ensign."

"Aye Sir." after adjusting a couple of controls on the console, then glancing over to Ensign Casey at the Ops console, Lindsi smiled. "Course plotted and laid in sir."

"Excellent. Engage at warp 5."

The USS Galaxy's warp engine powered up, and soon the Starship was streaking off through the stars, headed for the Rigel system just three days away.

**********

Major Jeppo needed a break. As he sat, alone, in Ten Forward, he rested his eyes by looking out the observation window at the passing stars. He had spent the better part of the day reading over all of the USS Galaxy's mission logs. Having been sent from the Marines to evaluate the possible need for stationing of military troops on board of Starships, Jeppo was beginning to think this was a big waist of his time, and talents. He was aware of the current assignment, transportation of a delegation party from point A to point B. "A Taxi mission" was the term he though of. Reading through the recent mission logs, even the Major had to have doubts as to the need for Marines on a Starfleet Starship. "With the exception of the USS Hydden incident six weeks ago, Which ended in a cluster #$!@, the Galaxy hasn't seen any real action." Jeppo swirled around the last bit of liquid in his glass as he glanced out at the few Starfleet officers in Ten Forward. The last few weeks were long for the Major. It seemed no one wanted him there, so making friends was not coming easy.

*********

As the Warp engines came to life, engineering was a buzz with activity. Lieutenant Chiron had returned from informing Chief Engineer Capizzi about another "Ensign Dana" incident. Chiron couldn't understand what the fuss was about over a bald Deltarian woman. Making his rounds he stopped to check in on the newest member of the Engineering team, Ensign Russell Skye Wadell. Everyone had already gotten used to calling him "Skye", or some times "Skye Pilot", but Chiron preferred to use his proper name when addressing him.

"How are the alignments going Ensign Wadell?" Chiron had a Padd in his hand and it appeared he was taking down completion estimates.

"Everything is proceeding perfectly. I should be finished here in about ten more minutes."

Chiron stopped and gave an approving grin. Wadell, though only an Ensign entered Starfleet academy with over 15 years of Engineering experience working in the civilian market. He was turning out to be one of the best Engineers Chiron had ever had the privilege of working with. "Great! Once you finish that, why don't you take a break? I expect Lieutenant Capizzi will be back here by then. He's sure to have something else he wants done before the shift ends."

"That sounds like a plan Lieutenant." Skye returned to his work as Chiron smiled and continued on his rounds in Engineering.

After changing out of the hideous thing, she sat down in front of her console.

"Computer, display messages."

After a few seconds, the familiar face of her brother popped up, smiling, but visibly tired.

"Hi Jac. I know this took a while, but your message came just before midterms. I’ve been busting my rear to get all my projects in. Otherwise I would have sent word weeks ago. Sorry if you got worried.’

"You’re absolutely right. It’s great to be a Senior. I haven’t had this much fun since Dad let me have the helm on the Montana . . . it was all of ten seconds, but fun anyway.’

"I had lunch with Mom today. She’s been busy lately, and was kind of stressed, but she did mention how happy she was to get a message from you. She asked if you were all right, and so forth. She may not show it, Jac, but I think she’s proud of you. Oh, and congrats to the commander!! I ran into Dr. Crusher and Alyssa Ogawa at Medical after lunch. They said . . actually ordered me to tell you they said ‘Hi’ and ‘Congratulations on your promotion.’

"I know you said you’d try, but don’t worry about it if you can’t make it to the graduation. It’s still months away, and only the Fates know if you’ll be busy.’

"I’d love to keep talking, but I have a practice session in the simulators tomorrow, and I have to go study some. Keep in touch, okay?"

And then, with a wink and a smile, Danny’s face was replaced with the standard Federation emblem.

Jacqueline was in a good mood. Much too good to stay cooped up in her quarters. She decided that a visit to Ten-Forward was in order.

Commander Jacqueline Rousseau, M.D.
Chief Medical Officer, U.S.S. Galaxy

Transportor Chief Jensen

Shivok had received the order to collect as many information on the Tholians as possible and give the team a good referencial background for their negotiations. He'd soon found out that the only reliable information sources were the logs of the legendary NCC-1701, any others were mostly rumour based. His task was to separate fairy tales from facts, a goal, which was not easy to achieve due to the lack of referencing sources. All rumours indicate, that the Tholians were a highly martial race, their prior reason of being is conquest and war, and no contacts between Tholians and any other known race was reported.

Shivok came up with the conclusion, that the Tholians should be addressed "confidatio proviso", or as Samanka has pointed out: "Always keep a phaser in reaching distance." The Federation High Council decided to start with a positive ground estimated towards the Tholians, but not to be too confident and always keep warry. But due to circumstances the first meeting date was missed, and the current visit was the first attempt since then.

In his office Shivok checked again the latest orders from StarFleet and felt sorry he couldn't let Capt. Price know the full details. But the orders were precise and didn't let him any free space. With his statement back in Shuttle Bay he made him at least aware, that not everything with the Tholians was the way it looked....

And he also thought about, that he hasn't told Price the whole truth: It was not only terror he has felt, but also a strong determination and an underlying emotion of superiority, superiority of the Tholians towards the Federation. But all emotions he recieved were fuzzy, partly because of the space suits, but also because of their ability to protect their mental processes.

He thought it might not be the most unwise things to share his thoughts with the only person on board he really trusted. He pressed his commbadge:

"Lt. Samanka from Counselor Shivok!"

[Samanka here!]

"Prabhat, please come to my office, I need to talk with you. Condition 11/4"

After a moment of silence:

[I'm on my way, Samanka out.]

Lt.Cmdr. Shivok
Counselor
USS Galaxy

Coe stepped onto the bridge as the doors of the turbolift swung open. He looked over toward Lt jg Kane who sat in the command chair and realising he was enjoying himself, Coe left him alone and was content to just smile. He walked over toward the tactical station where Ensign Anna Hanley, the new tactical recruit was at the post. As Coe neared the station, Ensign Hanley looked up and greeted him.

" Good Evening Lt."

"Ensign." Coe nodded his head as he said it.

" Im sorry sir but I wasent expecting you to be on the bridge during this shift." Ensign Hannley looked unsure of herself as she said it.

" No Ensign, you are correct, I was just dropping by to make sure everything was alright, is it?"

" Oh..." And she relaxed, "Yes, thankyou sir."

"Very well, I will be, enjoying myself in ten forward if you need me." And with that Coe blink an eye and with a lively step, he headed of toward the social meeting place of the ship.

Chris N
AKA: Lt. Johnathon Thomas Coe
Chief Tactical Officer USS Galaxy

T'Nevin was a bit relieved that the Tholian meeting was soon over. He was also pleased that the Tholians took no particular interest in him. In fact, he began to feel mildly irritated that he even had to come. He had met the Tholians once before, when he was 14, and wasn't interested then.

"Been there, done that, as the Terrans say," he muttered to himself.

He was practically out of his clothes by the time he got to his quarters.

The doors opened and Ensign Vo stood in the doorway.

"Mai," he said with no surprise, and walked to her. "Is there a problem with..." His words were cut short by a hand quickly coming across his face. He turned his head to face her again. She slapped him with the other hand. This time he smiled at her. Her eyes flare and she storms out of the room.

"That's it, sweetheart. Let your frustrations go." T'Nevin whispers to himself as he changes into a more comfortable set of clothing. He walks over and checks his computer.

Messages from:

Ensign K'saol (1)
Susan Darma (4)

He frowns.

Activating the message from K'saol:

To: Lt jg T'Nevin, Foxtrot 639
Re: What I have found
stardate: 49611.6

Lieutenant,

When the tissues were tested by application of the female products, nothing was conclusive. But upon observation of the tissue, I did find that there were carbon/sulfur bridges that actually held the tissue together. A small amount of Pucyyric acid was also discovered. I think this is the biological acid that the parasites use to exit. With your approval, I would like to research this further, even though the threat has ended. Fascinating.

Ensign K'saol, Rho 167

T'Nevin was amused at Ensign K'saol's dedication to a problem whose solving was long overdue. He didn't even think there was a live parasite left to find out about, but he didn't mind her tinkering. Which brought him to his friend on Trill. Dr. Loren Omar. He remembered that when they arrived at Trill, he had just recovered from meditation. The time was 18:42 at Trill. But the message he accessed on Dr. Omar was dated on the same day, but at 18:44. This meant that Dr. Omar was dead, or presumed dead, 2 minutes before the fact, which was in no way possible. A computer glitch? Highly unlikely. He sat back down to his computer which he already downloaded the files from Dr. Omar's work, and observed them, looking for loop holes or "mistakes" like he found with the time.

T'Nevin thought to himself, "I remember Dr. Omar on the Tauratoz. Sometimes he felt extremely stressed about something. There was one project in particular, he worked on by himself. That is what I need to be looking for. Maybe that will shed some light on the subject."

Lt. jg T'Nevin, CSO
USS Galaxy NCC 70637

Ti was glad to be dismissed from the shuttle bay. Since she was not on duty she decided that she would go fly. The only problem she had to worry about now is what type of plane.

Ti wore the late twenth century Air Force flight suit. She decide to start with a tampico and switch to a F-15. She programmed the holodeck to meet with her desired scenerio. She was going to take-off from Scott Air Force Base in Illinois. She liked this particular spot because it was close to where Robert grew up.

She did her pre-flight and was ready to go. Ti got clearance from the tower, increased throttle, and was airborne. Tampicos were one of the harder planes to fly and she loved the adventure, of course the excitement would be in the F-15. She flew south. She wanted to see the beautiful landscape along the Mississippi River.

After an hour had passed, she switched to the Air Force fighter and programmed enemies to go up against. She loved the F-15 because of the high Gs that the plane could accomplish, as while as the manuverability.

After exiting the holodeck, she changed back into regular uniform and headed to ten-forward. She ordered a mixed fruit drink and found an unoccupied table to stare out the window.

Ti Miran
Chief Helmsman

USS Galaxy
Ensign Deiran Casey
Supplement to Tholian's Intro

Deiran could hardly contain the excitement within him. Here he was, only on the Galaxy for a day, and already at Ops and on the bridge. He was at the Ops console running a level 1 diagnostic on the ships senors. He looked up for just a split second and caught the glance of the pretty girl at the helm. Lt.Kane called her Kopitz. His heart started to pound, what was he suppose to do? If he smiled back, he would have to talk to her later and he'd look like a fool. He could defeat ten Klingons in a fight, but something about women did something to Casey in his head. They were the only thing that intimidated him. He finally turned away. He couldn't flirt now, he was on duty.

If Casey was at Ten Forward, maybe he would've smiled back and bought her a drink...maybe.

Casey hadn't met Lt.Kane formally, he hadn't met anyone on the ship formally, but Kane seemed competent. Deiran could tell this was Kane's first time in "the Chair." He could tell because Kane hadn't stopped smiling sense he sat down.

Kane spoke and commanded with confidence. Deiran admired that.

Deiran surveyed the other officers on the bridge, sizing them up. He began reading them all, not with telepathy, but with his heart. You can read a lot about people, just by looking at the eyes, watching their movements. Deiran was a pro at it. He had his own method and was never wrong about anyone. Deiran could see that this crew was ready for anything. Oh, yeah, this was going to be a fun place to serve!

"Chiron to Lt. Capizzi,"

[Capizzi here,]

"Lieutenant, I need to converse, ah, talk, with you right away..."

[I'm kinda busy, Chiron...]

"Yes sir, I understand, sir, I will try to resolve it myself..."

[Thanks, Chiron. Capizzi out.]

"Hmmm, how to handle this with all of the senior officers gone..." Chiron thought. He went over to the Master Situations Monitor, and scanned the readout. "Let's see, Tachyonic Particles, Sub-Space Detection Algorithms...What's this? Something hidden inside the sub-space scan..." Chiron's eyes widened.

"Chiron to Ensign Shtik,"

[Yes sir? Go ahead...]

"Are you scanning the Tholian ship?"

[Yes...]

"Focus your scans on the Sub-Space Domain, please"

[ok...Hmmm, Fascinating.]

"The Tholians are trying to establish a sub-space link with our computers, if I have interpreted these readings right..."

[You have, sir, that's what it looks like...]

"I'll try to contact the Captain, perhaps I can talk to him without Tholian presence."

[Good luck, sir, Captain Price seems to be the kind who would not leave a negotiation..]

"I must try, anyway."

[Yes sir]

"Please don't call me sir, Ensign Shtik, My name is Chiron."

[ok, si...Chiron.]

"Thank you, Chiron out."

"Chiron to Captain Price..."

[Chiron, I'm still in the conference, could this wait?]

"No, sir."

[Very well, What is it?]

"Sir, I would rather talk to you in private."

[Chiron...]

"Sir, it is about the Tholians."

[OK, Chiron, meet me in my Ready Room in ten minutes, alright? But make it quick.]

"Yes sir. Chiron out."

Chiron tapped his communicator, and turned back to the monitor with several burning questions left in his mind.

Eric Hanson (a.k.a. Darmok)
Lake Nebagamon, WI

The delegation has arrived. Joerg looked at them with astonishment. The Captain introduced the delegates to his crew and the visitors quickly wanted to take a closer look at the ship. Joerg was very surprised to see that the Captain allowed them to inspect vital parts of the ship such as Engineering and Tactical. He had his doubts about the Captain's decision, but after he knew what he was doing.

After the introduction some of the delegates wanted to visit their quarters. Since Lieutenant T'Lein and Sterner were responsible for the preparations, Captain Price ordered them to escort their guests to their quarters. Both Lieutenants obeyed the order and motioned their guests to follow them. They lead the V.I.P.s to the nearest turbo lift and explained them how to use it. The delegates asked some questions about the preparations for their cabins, and Sterner and T'Lein answered all.

Arriving at the quarters Joerg asked them to excuse him, but he had some important business at his office. The Tholians understood and he could go back to his work. Meanwhile T'Lein explained them how to adjust the environment in their quarters.

Before going directly to his office, Joerg first went to his quarters and changed back in his regular uniform. Relieved to wear his normal clothes again he shortly arrived at his office. There he ordered the computer to open the log so he could make an entry.

"Chief of Security Log: Stardate 49611.13

The delegates have arrived. They seem very interested in our technology or perhaps how advanced our ship really is. I can only hope that they are really here on a peaceful mission. I'm going to write a note about my concern to the Captain. Perhaps I should order some guards to keep an eye on those delegates, but I'll have to discuss this with the Captain later. For now we are on our way to Rigel 7, as our guests have requested. I can only wonder what they want there."

After closing the log, Joerg wrote a mail to Captain Price, which included his concern for the safety of the ship and the suggestion for more security precautions.

He checked his mails and found that he had one from Ensign Shtik, which was a detailed description of the Rigel 7 planet. He carefully read it but found nothing that he thought would be of any interest for the Tholians. Then he resumed his daily work and hoped he was wrong about the delegates.

Lieutenant junior grade Joerg Sterner
Chief of Security -- USS Galaxy NCC-70637
http://users.aol.com/captprice/galaxy/index.htm

"Sir, I believe you should see this." Kane jumped from his seat and hurried to science station 1. "Lt. jg Chevro...Chiron, called to inform me of the presence of a subspace link, in which the Tholians seem to be attempting to penetrate our computer. I believe I have effectively blocked their attempt, but I should note that we are unfamiliar with the extent of their technologies and this could have simply been a front for some other activity."

"Or a misinterpretation of something harmless. The Captain should be notified immediately." Lt. Kane said, trying to think of a way to get him away from the Tholians.

"I believe Mr. Chiron is attempting to contact the captain, sir." Shtik replied.

Ens. Shtik
Science Officer

She recalled how hard he had laughed when she tried to catch a chicken. All she wanted to do was get a closer look. I showed her how to milk a cow, she got more of the milk on her than in the pail. Most importantly, he taught Ti how to ride a horse. She loved horses from that time on.

Ti was brought back to reality by a voice asking if the other seat was taken. Startled, she looked up into an unknown face. He was in civilian clothes, so she had no idea who it was. She blushed a bright shade of scarlett and answered that the seat was not taken.

Ti Miran
Chief Helmsman

T'Lein walked into Ten-Foreward and headed straight for the bar. It was not ordinary for a Vulcan, but he felt a little fatiqued after assisting with the numerous amount of preparations carried out prior to the Tholian delegations visit aboard the Galaxy.

T'Lein, after ordering his drink, glanced around the room and spotted the new Ensign Ti sitting with a civilian. He observed very closely and saw that the two were engaged in some sort of conversation. T'Lein decided to walk over to the ensign when he found an opportunity...he didn't want to intrude (Vulcans, although not displaying emotions, are mannerable beings). He wanted to speak with the ensign about her post as helmsman and ask if she had any questions or concerns...he only wanted to assist, since helm was his last post...nothing more.

Lt. T'Lein turned back to face the bar, slowly finished his drink, and patiently waited.

Lt.jg Stovok T'Lein
Chief Ops Manager
USS Galaxy NCC-70637

"My name is Thomas.....Thomas Jensen" Jensen Nervously said. "I just arrived here on the Glalaxy a couple of weeks ago. So I am really new. I havn't seen you around here so I just thought I'd stop by to meet you and offer an invitaion to come White Water Rafting on the Holodeck later on tonight. I need a partner and havn't been able to find one....so I thought maybe you would like to give it a go?"

After saying all that Jensen felt really really stupid. "Maybe I said to much to her" he thought. "I probably scared her". He looked over to the Ensign and she smiled and warm smile. He then took a drink of his coffee and waited for her reply.

Chief Jensen

I recall the last conversation I had with my troops, just after coming on board and checking in. Adrianna, my specialist, and Grigg, my closest buddy, were giving me a final Cheers...

"Oh come on, Major, it's not that bad. Starfleet is actually trusting you for an honest opinion", Adrianna says.

"Yeah, after all, it's not like you're being punished or anything", Grigg pipes in, his brown scaly countenance revealing nothing, but ever-present humor in his voice. "You still miss her, don't you?", he adds quietly.

"That's beside the point", I add harshly. "Nothing that good ever really lasts. I was stupid to ever get married. You can't love the Corps and a woman at the same time. It was just a distraction, one that made me soft. And look where it got me. Hell,...", I gesture around me, indicating the ship... "this assignment'll last forever."

"Sir, remember what YOU always say?" Adrianna's a good soldier, but sometimes a real pain in the butt. " 'It could always be worse.' You're always the optimist. I can't believe you're complaining about getting a cushy assignment...". She's roughly shoved out of the picture by Grigg; I can hear her falling against something and furniture hitting the floor.

"Never mind her, Tinian. She's always complaining about something or other. The day she falls in love is the day hell freezes over. Besides, knowing you, you'll go back to being a hardass, ogling every woman on the ship, and just making life miserable for everyone. And you'll be happier than a jackrabbit on a date."

"Uh huh. Yeah. Sure. Right. Stuck on a ship with a bunch of boring scientists and tough-guy wanna-be's carrying pop-guns. I've already aced every security exercise in the holodeck, checked out the excuse for an armoury, and paced the halls of this place until I've memorized the layout. These people are as friendly as Ceti eels. Grigg, what am I really doing here? On a starship?"

A deep breath. "A hundred years ago, there was no question of Marines on a starship. Starfleet was still relatively new, lots of unexplored frontier, and Security was mostly dropouts from other Academy programs. Now, most of the Federation is as familiar as a busy street corner. There's talk about relegating the Corps to a fleet of platoon-sized cruisers. Some talk of disbanding it altogether. Look, my friend, don't worry about it, you'll just go nuts. Just worry about yourself here and now. When you start thinking about politics, it's time to stand down."

Wonderful. Bored out of my mind, with no desire to talk to these wimps. I'm going to have to find some sort of permanent diversion. I just wish Starfleet would have granted my request for Grigg.

Then again, if Karen were with me, maybe I would look soft. Maybe Adrianna is right, there's no room for love AND a military career. But I see these people wandering the halls, holding hands and looking like idiots. How can they do it? Then again, they ARE just ship rats.

I give my head a shake. Snapping back to the present, Ten-Forward seems to be filling up now that we're underway. Maybe I'll stick around, check these kids out, then try that new Klingon exercise program from Lt Commander Worf. Kills time.

Major T Jeppo
Marine Observer
U.S.S. Galaxy

Captain Price sat in his ready room looking up at the officers before him.

"How can that be? We left the Cyonia Starship several hours ago at warp 5. Maybe you should run a level 1 diagnostics on the sensor array. This has to be a false reading." Price couldn’t accept the thought that the Tholians were some how covertly probing the USS Galaxy’s computer system from so many light years away. While technologically on par with the Federation, Price knew they didn’t have that kind of technology

"Aye Captain. I will get to that right way. However I am confident that the sensors are not malfunctioning." Chiron spoke with all the pride of a good engineer.

"There may be another explanation." Lieutenant Coe, the Galaxy’s Chief Tactical officer suggested.

Captain Price turned and looked at the Lieutenant, beckoning him to continue.

"The scans, or emissions, or whatever it is that Lieutenant Chiron has detected, could be coming from a cloaked ship that is also traveling at warp speeds."

A thoughtful look crossed the Captain’s face. "An interesting idea. Let’s still complete the level 1 diagnostic on the sensors. Chiron, be sure to let Chief Engineer Capizzi know what’s going on and coordinate through him. Lieutenant Coe, I want you to work with Chief Science officer T’Nevin on proving, or disproving your theory. I want to know if there is a cloaked ship following us or not."

Lieutenant Chiron nodded to the Captain. He’d be sure to let Capizzi know as soon as he leaves this meeting. Capizzi was presently making preparations for the Tholian delegate’s tour of the Starship.

"Aye Captain." Lieutenant Coe responded.

"Then you have your assignments, unless there is anything else?"

Everyone looked at each other before Joerg Sterner, the Chief of Security stepped forward. "Yes Captain. I wanted to ask if you think it is wise to allow the Tholians so much access to our ship’s systems and databases? They seem to be absorbing the technological information like a sponge soaks up water."

The Captain could tell that the same question was on all of the officers minds. "We have been ordered to make a good impression on the Tholians. They are going to Rigel 7 to strike up an agreement with the Federation of Planets to become a full member. While they may be eager to learn more about us as a people and the technology that we use, I think that is an advantage. The more they get to know us, the more they will trust us, hopefully. Think of it as a diplomatic gesture."

"Still Captain, I think it would be prudent to have escorts with the delegates while they roam the ship."

Captain Price smiles at Lieutenant Coe. "Yes, that is a wise precaution. But remember, the Tholians are our guests here. Make sure your men make them feel welcome."

"Thank you Captain."

"You are all dismissed."

As all of the officers exit the Captain’s ready room, Price glances out of the observation view port at the passing stars. "I wonder if there is a ship out there… following us?"

"Ti. Uh.. Ti Miran. Um I...Um...I'm newer to the ship than that. I don't know about rafting." She did not know what to say to him. She never expected anyone to come up like this to her.

"I think I should perhaps go. I.. uh.. have.. uh.. morning shift on the bridge." Ti made a retreat.

In her quarters, Ti sat down on the bed. He was sweet and all but, she didn't know how to act. She never had friends of any sort for very long as a child. Robert was her first. She hoped she didn't hurt his feelings.

Sure enough, after a few minutes she seems to sputter out a few words, then quickly stands and leaves. He watches her depart, then, clasping his hands on the table, stares hard at the surface with a dark look. I don't know whether to feel sorry for the guy for laugh inwardly.

But like the idiot that I am, I feel sorry for the fool, so I head over to him and, without being invited, sit down. He's a Chief, an engineer of some sort. Without an invitation I introduce myself.

"Howdy, Chief. Jeppo. Major Tinian Jeppo."

His eyes open wide as he sees my rank. "Sir." he says flatly. "Chief Jensen".

No doubt he's uncomfortable as hell. "Accidentally saw you with that young lady there. I wouldn't worry if I were you. She was really intimidated by you. As soon as she gets the courage, I betcha she'll be coming up and buying you a drink."

He shrugs his shoulders. "Yeah, sure Major."

Okay, so he's not the friendliest person here, like the rest of these space jockeys. "Chief, if you ever need to shoot the breeze, let me know. I'm not exactly the most popular person here, and I bet I'll be spending a lot of time in this place."

At that I stand and move back to my seat on the other side, against the wall, where no one can sit behind me. The Chief glances at me, but quickly looks away. As for me, I just nurse my fake booze, watching all the colors and shapes coming in at the end of the shift, and being bored out of my mind.

Coe stood in front of the Captain along with the other officers in the room.

"How can that be? We left the Cyonia Starship several hours ago at warp 5. Maybe you should run a level 1 diagnostics on the sensor array. This has to be a false reading." Coe agreed with the Captain and began to think up other ways that this phenomenon could be possible.

" Captain, there is another possibility, there may be a cloaked ship on a parallel course with us that could be emitting the scan...." The captain and the rest of the officers pondered the theory.

An interesting idea. Let's still complete the level 1 diagnostic on the sensors. Chiron, be sure to let Chief Engineer Capizzi know what's going on and co-ordinate through him. Lieutenant Coe, want you to work with Chief Science officer T'Nevin on proving, or disproving your theory. I want to know if there is a cloaked ship following us or not."

"Aye sir." With that the Captain dismissed them, and the moment Coe was outside the room, he hit his comm badge.

" Coe to T'Nevin." After a moment, Coe heard the reply, and from the sound of the background noise, Coe concluded that T'Nevin was probably enjoying himself.

" Yes Sir?"

" Lt. Im sorry to disturb your evening, but you are going to have to end it, meet me in my office in ten minutes, we have a theory to prove." After a moment Coe heard the answer a dejected

" Yes, sir"

" Good." A with that Coe signed off and began to head toward his office.

Chris N
AKA: Lt. Johnathon Thomas Coe
Chief Tactical Officer USS Galaxy

Joerg was glad the Captain has agreed on an escort for the delegates. While in the turbolift he was thinking of his duty for the rest of the day. Right now he had to schedule the escorts for the visitors, then reading some reports, a counseling session in the evening, and after that he just wanted to relax on the holodeck.

Arriving at his office he began to reschedule the shifts of the security personal, so that there are enough men/women available for both the security of the ship and the escorts for the Tholians. After finishing the schedule he tapped his communicator to call the first two on his "escort list".

"Sterner to Mulich and O'Lindey. Come to my officer immediately."

[On our way Sir.]

While he waited for the two he quickly read another report till the security team arrived.

"Mulich and O'Lindey as ordered Sir." the two announced as they entered the office.

"Ok gentlemen. Since you've probably heard already we have guests aboard. A Tholian delegation has arrived on the Galaxy and we are on our way to Rigel 7 with them now. I arranged that there will be an escort for the delegates each time they go on a tour of the ship. You two have the first shift in front of the delegates quarters. The next shift will relieve you in 6 hours. The schedule is available as a mail I just sent to all security personal. And be careful, this is a very delicate situation. I want you to keep an eye on those delegates, but do not, I repeat, DO NOT be aggressive or hostile against them in any way. You merely should protect our ship from any unauthorized access and the delegate from any possible threat. Is that understood gentlemen?" Joerg finished his speech.

"Yes Sir." the two officers quickly answered him.

"Well, if there isn't anything else you are dismissed." and Joerg turned back to his reports.

The two Ensigns left the office and headed towards the guest quarters. Joerg continued his day as planned and was really relaxed after his holodeck program. Tiredly he soon fell asleep in his quarters.

Lieutenant junior grade Joerg Sterner
Chief of Security -- USS Galaxy NCC-70637
http://users.aol.com/captprice/galaxy/index.htm