Lieutenant Sterner was sleeping when suddenly the computer waking alarm sounded. Before he went to bed last night he had ordered the computer to wake him at 7:00. This gave him the time to do some rescheduling before the alpha shift began.

While eating his breakfast he remembered the Christmas party and that the Captain told him about the recent promotions in the security department. It was Hutchcraft, Quall, and himself. For the excellent work on their last mission, as the Captain said. Joerg was very proud of his fine officers and couldn't wait to congratulate them. He finished breakfast, put on his uniform, and left his quarters for the security office.

Ensign Taylor welcomed and congratulated him on his entrance to his office. Joerg thanked him, sat down, and checked the time. It was 7:30. He still had some time before the gamma shift ends. So he decided to do the rescheduling first. He thought that it would be a good idea, if the two new Lieutenants would be his new assistant chiefs. But that required, that one of them was about to be moved to beta shift. He decided the best way would simply chose one of them, and he choose Quall. That meant that in beta shift, Lieutenant Quall was responsible for the security aboard the ship, should Joerg not be available, as was Lieutenant Hutchcraft for the gamma shift.

After he changed the duty roster, he sent a copy to Commander Jamson. After that he saw that the gamma shift was over, and so he contacted Hutchcraft and Quall.

"Sterner to Hutchcraft and Quall. Please come to my office immediately."

[Understood. We are on our way.]

While waiting for them, Joerg noticed the gold pin on his desk. He was so busy with the duty roster, he forgot to change his pins. He decided to change them before the two Lieutenants arrive. Just after he laid down the hollow pin on his desk, Hutchcraft and Quall entered.

"Lieutenant Hutchcraft and Quall as ordered sir."

"At ease gentlemen. First I have to congratulate you both on your promotion." Joerg started the conversation.

"Thank you sir."

"But this ain't the only good news for you today."

The two started to look puzzled.

"Sir?" Hutchcraft asked.

"Since you two are now Lieutenants aboard the ship, I have decided you two will be my assistant chiefs. That means you have the responsibility of security in your shifts and once I'm not available, such as when I'm on an away mission. That's why you have been transferred to beta shift, Lieutenant Quall. I hope you can live with that." Joerg explained to them.

"Yes sir. Thank you for your trust in us." Quall answered happily.

"We'll try to do our best sir." Hutchcraft added.

"Well gentlemen that's all for today. Dismissed." Joerg concluded the briefing.

"Thank you sir and congratulation on your own promotion." the two said before leaving the office.

After they left, Joerg turned to his display and checked for new messages. He was looking for some computer data on his security holoprograms, but so far very few had sent them to him. So he decided to "encourage" his staff with a mail.

---- BEGIN MESSAGE ----

TO: All security personal aboard USS Galaxy

FROM: Lieutenant Sterner

SUBJECT: Holoprogram data

THIS MAIL SHOULD ONLY REMIND YOU, THAT YOU SHOULD USE THE SECURITY HOLOPROGRAMS MORE RECENTLY AND SEND IN THE DATA COLLECTED BY THE COMPUTER AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. I HAVEN'T RECEIVED COMPUTER DATA FROM SOME OF YOU THIS WEEK, SO PLEASE SEND THEM IN VERY SOON.

THANKS FOR YOU HELP

Lieutenant Joerg Sterner, Chief of Security, USS Galaxy ---- END MESSAGE ----

After he has written and sent this reminder, Joerg decided to read through his other mails and found an interesting one from Lieutenant Shtik and Blair. They were going to hold a movie night on the holodecks tonight. Joerg always liked movies so he decided that he'll join them and sent an acknowledgment to Lieutenant Blair.

Once this was done, he decided to reserve a holosuite for the next day, as he wanted to improve his skills and hasn't been training his skills for some days now. After that he returned to his duties of reading and writing reports.

Lieutenant Joerg Sterner
Chief of Security - USS Galaxy NCC-70637

After finishing up a routine and uneventful shift on the bridge, Mitchell headed back to his quarters. With his new promotion came many more responsibilities. He didn't mind, as it kept him busy. When word came to him that Lt. Chalmers had transferred off the ship, he felt guilty for not getting the chance to say goodbye. This affects him deeply as he didn't get the chance to say goodbye to his father. In Lt. Chen's instance, he felt sad and happy. He was just getting to know her and he enjoyed working with her. He was happy for her, though. She was promoted to Chief of Operations on the USS Crusader. James had the opportunity to apply for a transfer to the Crusader, but his loyalty lay with the Galaxy. The crew on this ship were friendly and he knew he could trust them with his life. They would all die for each other without question as the last mission proved. At any rate, he felt at home here more than any other ship or post he served previously.

Entering his quarters, he walked to his desk.

"Computer, check messages." He spoke as he got changed into his civvies. The computer whirred through the messages, and found one from Dr. Rousseau reminding him to finish up his physical or she would suspend him from duty. Another one was a reminder to call his mother.

"Damn! I forgot!" Mitchell rushed to his console, half dressed.

"Computer, establish a link to Starfleet Academy Cadet Flight Training School on Mars, please. Extension Commander Mitchell." While waiting for the link to connect, James took the time to put on the new sweater his mother sent him for Christmas.

"Link established. Recipient coming online."

"James! Hi, honey!" An older woman appeared on the screen. She had dark brown hair tied up in a French braid, with a slight hint of grey streaking the sides.

"Hey, mom! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! You look great!"

"Why, thank you dear. I see you're wearing the sweater I sent you?" Her eyes took in the sight of her oldest son. "It looks handsome on you. Have you got a girlfriend, yet?"

James blushed. "Mom, you're still blunt with your thoughts, I see? And no, I don't. I just got on board a couple of months ago, and been quite busy ever since. You wouldn't believe what we went through."

"Well, I hope you tell me about it sometime, son, but I've got a class to teach in 15 minutes, and you caught me in the middle of gathering my notes."

"Before I let you go, Mom, I have to tell you. I got a Promotion!" James lit up as he spoke and so did his mother. Like mother, like son.

"Really? So soon? I'm proud of you, dear. I really am! Are you an Admiral now?" Her eyes twinkled and she winked one of them.

James chuckled. "Not yet, Mom, but at this rate, I will be by the end of the year! No, no, I am a Lieutenant, Junior Grade, now, but I appreciate your faith in me."

"You know I have faith in you, my dear. I know how much you miss not knowing your father. I know you are doing this for him, and that makes me feel wonderful knowing that. James, I really have to go now, I'm sorry. I'll say hi for you to Greg and your brother and sister, Okay? I love you, James."

"I love you, too, Mom. I call you as soon as I can. Bye."

James sat watching the screen even after it went dark. He hadn't talked to his mother in a long time, but it did have an effect on him. She was right. He was driving himself for his father. It almost didn't make sense anymore. Bajor was liberated and that was the driving reason he wanted a command. His father meant everything to him, even though he didn't know him. James was only two when his father was killed on Bajor trying to get him and his mother off-planet before the Cardassians killed them. James had one strong memory of his father, though. He remembered the shock as he looked out of the doorway of the smuggler ship to see his father's personal shuttle come over the treetops, then he saw a flash of light. After it faded he saw his fathers shuttle glowing then dissipate in the air. He still had nightmares of that moment.

Snapping out of his trance, James realized that sitting alone in his quarters wasn't going to make it any easier on him.

"I'm not going to sit here and think about past pains. I think its about time I had some fun." Just as he was walking out the door, he heard his computer beep.

"Incoming message from Lt. Blair."

Walking back to the computer, he scanned the message. It was an invitation to see a movie on the holodeck this evening.

"That sounds like a great idea! Computer, send reply to Lt. Blair that Lt Mitchell accepts the invitation and looks forward to it. Also tell him that I'll bring the popcorn."

"Message sent."

Smiling, Lt. Mitchell headed out of his quarters and to made his way to Ten-Forward.

"I think its time Chief Jensen got me that drink now. He'd better be there this time and not causing any more rifts in time. I don't think I can take any more about time travel for awhile."

Ian Dickson
aka Lt.(jg) James Mitchell, Science Officer, Uss Galaxy
Lt. Shawn O'Malley, Chief Science Officer, USS Crusader
Lt. Tiran Cabrill. Chief Science Officer, Uss Sovereign

"Chief.....how you doing.......you're not planning to play any more tricks on me, are you?" Mitchell said with a smile.

"No....No...of course not" said the Chief, "Congradulations on your promotion....your pips look great. I can tell you are going to move up fast in the Federation ranking system".

"Gee thanks Chief.....How about that drink you offered days ago."

"How bout that....you remembered........Liam.....why don't you go behind the ole counter of yours and fetch us some old 19th century earth whisky." The Chief replied. And with that the Chief and Mitchell talked about the adventure they had just gone through.....The only funny thing was the Mitchell never said anything about the Chiefs promotion.......

Chief Petty Officer 1st Class Thomas Jensen

[Lieutenant Hutchcraft, Quall, can you please come to my office]

"Right away, sir" he replied.

He looked at himself strangely. He didn't quite feel right calling anyone sir, nor having any position of power. It felt nice, he thought. He walked to Sterner's office with a smile on his face. Lieutenant Quall was slightly ahead of him. Hutchcraft decided to keep it that way for the time being. He had nothing personal against Quall, he just didn't want to go around making friends with a fellow officer, a fellow officer in his own department even, that quickly. They arrived at Sterner's officer simultaneously, however.

Sterner was putting down a black pip on his desk. He noticed that his superior had two gold pips. He smiled briefly. It felt strange. When he had arrived, the security department almost felt like a minor part of the ship, managed by only one Lieutenant Junior Grade first-year officer. It was obvious that it wasn't going to be a minor part for much longer.

"Lieutenant Hutchcraft and Quall as ordered sir." came a voice from behind them. Hutchcraft knew the face as one of his fellow Gamma Shift officers, but could not put name to face.

"At ease gentlemen. First I have to congratulate you both on your promotion ..." Sterner said the line very formally. Hutchcraft didn't like that.

" ... But this ain't the only good news for you today." Hutchcraft thought of the possibilities. He regained his infamous grin.

"Sir?" Hutchcraft asked. He was trying to hide his grin, it was only half working.

"Since you two are now Lieutenants aboard the ship, I have decided you two will be my assistant chiefs."

Hutchcraft felt strange. First promotions now this. He felt like he almost commanded the ship. He kept mumbling to himself that he would never go further than Lieutenant Commander in an attempt to degrade himself. In which time, Quall had already made a comment, leaving Hutchcraft to say something. Something like ...

"We'll try to do our best sir." Hutchcraft added. Hutchcraft couldn't believe he had said that. He bit his tongue.

"Well gentlemen that's all for today. Dismissed." Joerg concluded the briefing.

Hutchcraft walked out. "Mail" he said out loud as a medical doctor passed him. The Doctor gave him a weird look before going on his way. Hutchcraft just smiled.

Back at Hutchcraft's quarters, Hutchcraft could see two mails waiting for him. One about a film presentation, another about Sterner's holodeck training. He decided to deal with them now.

To: Troy Blair
Fr: Lt.Jg Hutchcraft
Re: Movie Nights.

Troy,

Sounds ace. What are you planning to play? It's always intrigued me, it was a nice way of demonstrating art, yet it doesn't really exist anymore. How sad.

Andrew Hutchcraft.

To: Ensign Sobra, Ensign Sanchez, Ensign Taylor
Fr: Lt.Jg Hutchcraft
Re: Holodeck Programmes.

I've been positioned as Assistant Chief Security Officer for the Gamma Shift. Since we're going to be bombarded with mail about the Lieutenant's Holodeck programmes, I suggest we have an hour's training with them after the Gamma shift is over, just to keep in working condition. This isn't essential, just advisory. For your own sake, rather than the ships.

Lt.Jg Hutchcraft

Hutchcraft smiled. Maybe we should all call Sterner the Holoman from now on, he thought. He laughed out loud, before making his way to Ten Forward.

On arrival, he saw Liam Sketcher. He grinned at him. Liam gave him a funny look. "I'll have something ..." His mind raced around for races that might make an interesting liquid substance "... err, Klingon."

Liam ducked behind his counter while Hutchcraft thought about what he was ordering ...

The computer informed her of an incoming message. It was Robert's parents. [Merry Christmas, Miran. How are you doing?]

"I am okay. This week has been hard for me. I miss Robert." Ti fought hard against the tears that threatened to form.

[We do too. This is the second Christmas he could not be with us. We should be going. You look tired, get some rest. Bye.]

"Bye"

Ti laid down with the hopes of sleeping but nightmares, not sleep came.

Kristi

The newly promoted officers came one after the other to Ten Forward and celebrated their new rank. Semanka smiled. He remembered his own promotion and the pride he felt, that StarFleet has recognized his fine duties. Long ago it was, but he remembered well, how he had felt: new responsibilities, new charges, and also moments of questioning his own position and capabilities.

And that was one of the reasons Semanka waited in Ten Forward, he wanted to talk to the newly promoted Security Officers Hutchcraft and Quall and discuss their new responsibilities Sterner gave them. Both were capable and promising officers, but they were rather young. "Maybe too young for a commanding position", Semanka thought, but then he remembered the current Chief of Security, Lt. Sterner, who was only 22, who did a splendid job rescuing the Galaxy from the Borg.

Hutchcraft entered, walked straight to Liam and spread around his wondeful charme. He was tellling a joke and all people around him bursted out laughing. Semanka took his glass of ale and went over to Hutchcraft to congratulate. Hutchcrafts eyey twinkled, when he saw Semanka approaching him: "Counselor, today is a glorious day. If I was the Captain I would be afraid about my own job, because the most promising Lt. jg. is ready to challenge what ever stands before him and the commanding chair." Hutchcrafts wide grin gave his comment the right touch.

"Congratulation to you, Lt., your performance on the last Away Team deserves your new position. I heard, that Lt. Sterner has put you in charge of the Beta shift?"

Semanka set a hand at Hutchcrafts shoulder and softly directed him to a nearby table. "Wow, bush drums are active onboard of that ship, eye?"

"Indeed, Lt, rumours spread quickly around, but in this particuliar case Lt. Sterner informed me about his new assignment. It's now up to me to prepare you and Lt.jg. Quall for your new position. I have compiled a couple of training lessons and holo simulations to elaborate your competences."

"Hey, Counselor, come on, why do I need to go to school again?"

Semanka's vioce became stern: "Lt. Hutchcraft, your are now holding a commanding position. You have the responsibility for your action and the actions of your men. It may arrive, and probably sooner than you like, that you have to give unpopular orders, to analyze situations in an instant of time and probably chose decisions, whose consequences can be lethal to your men. Furthermore you must become familiar to StarFleet protocols, writing mission and other reports, filling out request forms, etc."

Hutchcrafts eyes grew bigger and bigger and he murmured: "I didn't know that."

"Hardly anybody, who hasn't coma that far does, Hutchcraft. Rank has its privilieges, but also its duties." Semankas vioce became soft again:"And I'd like to help you and Quall to get to know them as quickly as possible."

Samanka handed him over a PADD: "Here you have the trainings plan. Meet me after your shift on holodeck three for your first lesson."

--- Captains Ready Room ---

"Some tea?" The Captain asked standing in front of the replicator.

Shivok's "Yes, please" and Jamsons "No, thank you Sir" coexisted in a single response. "Computer, hot water, 92 degree celsius." Price knew his Counselors habit to have his own herbs with him. The pot materialized and Price put the steamimg liquid on the table. Shivok picked a couple of herbs out of his pocket, prepared the cup and poured the hot water. Soon after the room was filled with the aroma of saya, the traditional Vulcan tea.

Jamson picked up the discussion: "Sir, the promotions were brought down to the department heads. The promoted officers were given the pipes and their new assignments."

"Very well, mate, I want the new positions settled as soon as possible on my ship."

Shivok spoke up: "Sir, many of the department or subdepartment heads are very young and haven't attended commanding classes at StarFleet, or made commanding experiences on other duty stations. I therefore request we use the next few weeks to train the respective persons, using holo simulations, theoretical courses and personal conversation with you or Cmdr. Jamson."

"Who are you thinking of?"

"Lt Cdr. Coe, Lt. T'Lein, Lt. Sterner and Ltjg. Capizzi. They are all very young and already have big responsibilities. They are next in the command chain of the Galaxy, If you and Cmdr. Jamson get killed. StarFleet is still recovering from the battle at Wolf 359 and officers are needed to man the ships. The Academy accepts and releases officers at a ever younger age and StarFleet puts them into positions, which often surcede their capabilities. For many of the officers the Galaxy is the first assignment, they finished the Academy and find themselves in responsible persons onboard of one of the most reputated star ships in the Federation."

Shivok perceived thoughtful emotions either from Price and Jamson, when he described the current situation in StarFleet. They both also knew about the lack of experienced officers, escpecially captains to rebuild the fleet.

"I'd like to give them the ability to enhance their competences and give them with that more self-confidence. They would be even more effective and efficient in their new positions."

Jamson frowned his fore head: "I still believe practical real time experience is the best commanding practice, but I see your point. When I think back when I got my first command, I wanted to do it right and almost was too engaged in my actions. And the report writing was really killing my guts!"

Price threw in: "I always confused the 'Personal Assingment Sheet' with the 'Personal Assessment Sheet'." "You too?"

Jamson and Price bursted out laughing. Then Price continued: "Yes, I think this is good idea. What areas of education are you thinking of?"

"The areas I foresee are similar to the traditional StarFleet guidelines: communication, tactic, leadership, command chain, administration, xenoscience and personal assessments."

"Very well, do it 'mate."

--- Deck 10 ---

Shivok stood in front of the turbo lift and waited for the cabin. When the door opened, he saw a young human with a big bag he never has seen before. He quickly memorized the reports handed over by StarFleet about new crew member, and identified his opposite as Ltjg. Shane, just before he had the possibility to introduce himself. Shivok felt, that Shane was on some sort of pressure, so he tried to relax the situation and said with a smile:

"Lt.Cmdr Shivok, ships counselor. Welcome aboard Mr. Shane." And he perceived Shanes puzzleness. Shane had to digest two self-contradicting information: a smiling Vulcan and and Vulcan counselor. Not for the first time, Shivok had the impression, that humans will never fully understand the concept of indefinite diversities in indefinite combination, too much they need a well ordered and structured view of the world. There must be invariant constants in their cosmos, fix points of references, piles of truth, which bear the understanding of their existence.

Shane left on deck 8, and Shivok wished him a "Live long and prosper" for his first day on the Galaxy.

Stephane, aka Counselor Shivok

After establishing that nobody was home, Lt. Shane admitted himself into the Majors quarters utilizing his engineering access codes. His first thought upon taking in what he saw was that perhaps the environmental controls had been hosed conceivably causing a change in cabin pressure which might account for the wads of clothing strewn about and the dirty dishes lying in various areas of the Major's suite. I his short experience however, Dyllan had never seen a replicator assemblage damaged by faulty environmental equipment. It looked as if somebody had outright punched the unit. Broken shards of thin transparent aluminum littered the carpeting in front of the replicator. An occasional spark released itself from the conduits which were exposed and hanging loosely throughout the midsection of the main processor.

Dyllan was by trade an Engineer, not a psychotherapist. While he was dang curious about how the damage had occurred, he did his best to set aside his nosy ambitions and just repair the unit. Removing the surrounding access panels proved to be the most difficult portion of the task. Apparently when the unit was damaged the conduits must have superheated just long enough to fuse the outer casing to the bulkhead in a majority of the areas where it was attached. This was certainly going to take the better part of the shift.

LtJg Dyllan Shane
USS Galaxy, Engineering

Mitchell had been talking to Jensen for a while when his gaze fell down to his collar. He noticed something different about it.

"Chief, did you get a promotion?" He asked thoughtfully.

"I thought you'd never ask! What gave it away?" Jensen threw back the last of his whiskey and beckoned to the waiter for another one.

"I noticed you had another pip. I'm not too familiar with the rankings of your class. Sorry."

"That's cool, man. Not too many think so either. I think they think there are only two ranks-Specialist and P.O. I'm a Chief Petty Officer, 1st class, now!" The waiter had just delivered the whiskey when Jensen said this. He turned to serve another table as he deposited his drink, but Jensen stopped him.

"Another, dear sir!" The waiter beckoned to the full glasses on the table. Jensen looked at it, then took it and gulped it down. The waiter sighed and took the glass away.

"Thank God it's synthale, Tom, or you'd be celebrating your promotion with a headache."

"I love the taste of whiskey, Mitch. And by the way, this isn't synthale. Its Jack Daniels. From Earth! I couldn't get drunk off this even if I tried."

James looked shocked.

"Not synthale? Oh, man, so much for my physical getting done today. Dr. Rousseau's gonna kill me! Either that or Dr. Bellen's going to chase me all over the ship too like she did with Deiran."

"Well, lets head down now and get it over with!" Jensen slurred.

"Nah, she can wait a little longer for me. The last time I was there, the Borg attacked! I don't want that to happen again, especially if I've been drinking. Why don't we just take this bottle to the holodeck for the movie tonight? We could sneak it in, have a party afterwards...."

"Sounds like a plan, Mitch, lets go!"

When the waiter arrived with Jensen's next drink, he found that the two officers had left, taking the bottle with them. he was about to report the theft to Liam, when he noticed several credits under the napkin. He smiled and cleaned up the table after them, pocketing the credits.

Ian Dickson
aka Lt.(jg) James Mitchell, Science Officer, Uss Galaxy
Lt. Shawn O'Malley, Chief Science Officer, USS Crusader
Lt. Tiran Cabrill. Chief Science Officer, Uss Sovereign

Deiran looked at his substitute sister. Sometimes he was way too soft on women, and too forgiving. Deiran held out his hand and accepted D’tarna’s truce. He wanted to tell her how terrified he was of sickbays and of medicine, and how running through the corridors of the Galaxy didn’t exactly help that fear. But he decided to bury the past and go on.

"I received a message from Lt. Blair inviting the crew to a movie night. I was planning on going. What about you?" D’tarna, could read his thoughts and changed the subject completely.

"Yeah, I was thinking about it. But, I’d like to know what they’re playing first." Deiran said those words in a melancholy tone. Deiran wasn’t exactly his cheery, likable, huggable self today. D’tarna was wondering why.

"Deiran what’s wrong with you? You seem down, didn't your date go well last night?" D’tarna was showing her empathetic side. "The date went fine, we had a lot of fun, I plan to ask Miran to go out with me again. There's two things bothering me though, D’tarna. Number one, Miran is still in love with another man, a man she can’t have. I can’t go into details about it. But, I want to make her forget all about him and concentrate her feelings on me. That sounds really selfish, doesn’t it?"

"No, it’s sweet. Juvenile jealousy!" D’tarna smiled. Deiran couldn’t smile or laugh. "And number two?" D’tarna asked, waiting for his reply.

"Number two isn’t as important. My father was just promoted to Starfleet Tac Command and my mother is being promoted to Vice Admiral and will be heading the Starfleet Medical Procedure Board. Now, I have two admirals for parents. My mom is okay, but my father just gave me a nice pat on the back and then the first thing out of his mouth was achieving the rank of Lieutenant. The pressure is weighing on me like a ton." Deiran leaned his head down, he kept it lowered for several minutes and then looked up at D’tarna, "The funny thing is I want to be an admiral, I want to experience having that kind of control."

"I knew about your mother, I‘ll be reading a lot of her theories on medical procedures in the coming months," D’tarna replied, "Your father is like in the top ten admirals in Starfleet with that promo isn’t he?" "Actually, to be exact that makes him number 5, only four people above him. It blows me away, he only has to answer to six people in his life: four admirals, the President of the Federation and my mother."

D’tarna laughed really hard at the last one. Deiran loved when she let her trillian side show. They were interrupted by a comm-signal.

[Ensign Freeman to Lt. Casey]

Casey tapped his comm-badge, "Casey here Norm."

[Sir, there’s a secured message coming in with a Starfleet Command frequency requesting you answer it. The message is for you, sir.]

"All right Norm, I’ll take it in my quarters." Casey disconnected the comm with Freeman.

"Well, D’tarna, I hate to complain and run, but duty calls. I’ll talk to you later."

"Bye Deiran."

Casey arrived at his quarters and typed his AC code into the computer. His father appeared on the screen.

"Dad!" Casey was shocked.

"Actually, Lieutenant, this isn’t a social call. You’ll address me as Admiral Casey."

Whoa, Dad’s on the clock, Casey thought to himself. "Yes sir, Admiral. What can I do for you sir?"

"You have a special encryption code don’t you?"

"Yes Admiral," this was weird, Casey thought to himself, addressing his father as Admiral. This was the first time they’d talked to each other as enlisted officers and not father and son.

"How many people could decrypt that code?" Casey’s father seemed mad, Deiran could sense that if it were possible his father would have smoke coming out his ears.

"I would estimate that only I, Dr. Leah Brahms or Lt. Commander Data could do it. And it would take Data at least 2 weeks of non-stop work."

"Lieutenant, I want you to encrypt this message that I’m going to send to you and then send it to the person I address it too. This is classified, do not speak to anyone about its contents. Do you understand Lieutenant?"

"Aye sir."

"I will use your encryption code. Send me a copy of the decryption, priority one. For my eyes only. Also, send a copy to Major Tinian Jeppo and Specialist Karen Davies on Station Beta Two. You will not mention this to anyone, you have access to classified information. If you leak it to anyone but those I’ve mentioned above, you will be court-martialed. Do you understand Lieutenant?"

"Yes sir."

"I will keep in touch with you. Admiral Casey out."

Deiran stared at the Starfleet insignia, completely mystified at what had just taken place. He sent the encryption/decryption code to his father, Jeppo and Davies. And put the whole thing out of his memory. He started to derive a new encryption code, sense he’d have to change his warp drive experiment notes and research immediately. He also made sure that he erased the ship’s copy from the Main Computer.

After searching several decks, there was no sign of Shtik. Before giving up the search, Troy tried the holodecks. Sure enough, there was Shtik getting ready for the movie. Shtik was standing at the holodeck's computer, checking and double checking to make sure the program was right.

"Shtik!"

Shtik's ears perked as he turned to face Troy.

"Ah Troy, I was checking the program for tonight to make sure the detail is exact."

"The more detail the better. Listen, everyone keeps asking me what we are going to see, and I keep having to answer I don't know. So, what are we seeing?!?"

"It's a movie that had great success, along with it's sequels. I believe the classification of it is Science Fiction"

"Alright, so what is the title?"

"Star Wars" Shtik replied raising one eyebrow.

"I've heard of that movie, but I've only seen a little bit of it."

"It is an interesting movie, I think everyone will enjoy it."

"Well then Shtik, I better go tell the others, I'll see you tonight!"

Troy turned and walked out of the holodecks. Troy made his way to the closest computer console, and sent a message telling everyone the movie Shtik has chosen is "Star Wars". It had been a while since he had seen a movie, now would be a good time to see one.

Lieutenant JG Troy Blair
Tactical Officer, USS Galaxy

She was still a little upset that she had let someone know her true feelings. It angered her to show her weakness in front of someone she really didn't know. Deiran was really nice though. She went to ten-forward.

Though she was not fond of alcoholic drinks, even synthol, she did like synthale. She had heard a quote once "Never trust an alcoholic drink made by a religious people." It was the only Bajoran made item they could have, if only rarely.

She took the bright blue drink and found a seat looking out the window. She loved seeing the stars fly by. Ti sat there until shift change.

Kristi

All Starfleet vessels incorporated a lounge of some type where one could go for a drink and some casual conversation. The Galaxy class of course sported the most elaborate of these standard cocktail facilities. Ten Forward was plush by comparison to even a planet side Officers lounge. Dyllan found a table and parked his weary tail. No sooner did his butt hit the seat when an attendant who looked for all the world like a stalk of asparagus arrived to take his pleasure. "I’ll have a Long Island Ice Tea with an extra shot of Vodka." The green jumpsuit-clad server nodded and headed for the cabaret area on the far side of the room.

The stars were astounding streaking past the huge bay windows. If he concentrated he could make out some constellations which made up some of the defining perimeters of the Neutral Zone. Dyllan took a long sip from the libation which had arrived with an efficiency which was apparently the norm. The drink tasted strongly of synthaholic Vodka and Dyllan enjoyed another long draw. As the alcohol worked its way through his gullet scenes from his final days aboard the Starstalker drifted through his mind.

Most of his shipmates had been reassigned to other ships, a few resided planet-side, and several were still recovering in various rehab facilities specific to their wounds. Damage to the ship was such that most of the injuries sustained had consisted of burns in veering degrees. Dyllan had been fortunate in that he had come out virtually unscathed in comparison. It took about 14 hours to completely evacuate the ship. Dyllan had been assigned to assist with keeping the warp core stable until it was certain the everybody had made it to a life pod. The engineering team was able to keep the core stable for exactly 14 hours and 12 minutes before it went critical. There was an escape pod waiting as he dove into it at the last minute but there was not quite enough time to reach maximum clearance before the core went. The result was that the pod had been damaged. The following weeks were endured as he drifted in space, oxygen running thin, heat all but non-existent.

Dyllans pod-mate had been a fellow engineer. Jason Grisham. In order to sustain body heat the two had doubled up in the equivalent of a sleeping bag and remained that way for several weeks sharing each others body heat in order to stay alive in the sub-zero temperature of space. Jason didn’t finish the trip. The cold took him 2 days before they were rescued by the Packled trader ship. The experience had been etched in the back of his mind. The loss of a friend, his inability to have fixed the problem.

Deep thoughts were interrupted by an interloper at Shane’s table. The Vulcan Counselor took a seat next to him.

LtJg Dyllan Shane
USS Galaxy, Engineering

---- BEGIN MESSAGE ----

TO: All security personal aboard USS Galaxy

FROM: Lieutenant Sterner

SUBJECT: Holoprogram data

THIS MAIL SHOULD ONLY REMIND YOU, THAT YOU SHOULD USE THE SECURITY HOLOPROGRAMS MORE RECENTLY AND SEND IN THE DATA COLLECTED BY THE COMPUTER AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. I HAVEN'T RECEIVED COMPUTER DATA FROM SOME OF YOU THIS WEEK, SO PLEASE SEND THEM IN VERY SOON.

THANKS FOR YOU HELP

Lieutenant Joerg Sterner, Chief of Security, USS Galaxy

---- END MESSAGE ----

When he had read the message he then hurried to the holodeck to catch up with the security programs.

K´Bal entered the holodeck and ordered the computer to start the program. "Initiate program security-alpha12."

*Program complete.* answered the computer.

"Start program and create a d'k tahg (Klingon Dagger) for me."

K´Bal suddenly hold a d'k tahg in his hand. "Computer, difficulty level 4. Start program."

K´Bal started on a higher level than his Chief had when he had showed the program earlier because he was confident in his ability in melee combat.

And then a warrior materialized in front of him and started to attack him. They both started to move around, slashing and thrusting at each other, suddenly the hologram made a thrust against K´Bal´s throat only to at the last moment change maneuver and thrust against his stomach, it was only K´Bal´s strength that prevented him from receiving a mortal wound in his stomach, by dropping his d'k tahg and force the holograms arm downwards so the thrust hit him in his leg inst d. The pain from the wound only made him angrier which gave him even more strength, so he grabbed the weaponarm of the hologram and forced it against his opponents throat, giving it a forceful push right into the throat. The hologram dropped to the floor and vanished. K´Bal then looked a little closer at his wound and determined to see the doctor to patch him up. He then limped from the holodeck towards the sickbay, thinking to himself "That program was good but not good enough."

Ambassador Z´beryl, Station Beta 2
Lieutenant (jg) K´esta, Security Officer, USS Sovereign
Ensign K´Bal Sobra, Security Officer, USS Galaxy
Ensign Jacob Stevens, Security Officer, USS Crusader

Many changes had taken place on board the USS Galaxy over the last few weeks. Captain Price had the pleasure of promoting several officers as well as the sadness of saying goodbye to those transferring to other assignments.

Presently, the USS Galaxy was conducting a scientific study of the formation of a class 7 nebula. While the science department was excited over the learning opportunities this assignment offered, Captain Price was quite bored. Having finished making his assignments for the Alpha shift, Lee decided to indulge in some R&R on the holodeck.

Changing out of his duty uniform, Captain Price suited up for a brisk game of Polo. Once dressed, he grabbed his favorite mallet, placed his riding cap on and exited his quarters.

Carefully he walked down the corridors of the Galaxy. His shiny black boots were made for horse back riding, not walking, so he proceeded gingerly with each step. Commander Jamson caught up with him as he approached the turbolift.

"Captain. I see you're getting ready for a visit to the holodeck."

The Captain smiles. "That's right 'mate. Going to see if I can beat Rixx holodeck Polo team this time around."

Jamson thought the name was familiar. "Rixx? Is that Captain Rixx Sir? The Bolian?"

The Captain steps into the turbolift as Jamson follows. "That's right. He's a Polo fan too. I got the program I'm about to run from him last time we were at Starfleet headquarters on Earth. I've yet to beat his holo-team." The Captain paused as the turbolift doors closed.

"Deck eleven." The Captain said as the lift began moving. He then turned to Jamson. "Do you ride Commander?"

Jamson relaxed a moment, letting his arms drop to his side while still holding the duty Padd he was working on. "Yes sir, I love to horse back ride. I have never played Polo before though Sir."

Price nodded. "It's a fun sport. At least it will be once I figure out how to beat Rixx team!"

They both chuckle a moment before the Captain asks, "You wanted to see me about something Commander?"

Referencing the Padd he was holding, Jamson begins. "Yes Sir. I have Lieutenant Coe mining the store on the bridge. The surveying of the nebula has most of the science department busy with collecting data and cataloging the information. Engineering reports that everything is in top shape after their last service cycles. Lieutenant Commander Shivok wanted to let you know that the training simulations for the new officers is proceeding nicely."

The Captain listened at the Commander rattled on. Finally, as the turbolift arrived on deck eleven, the doors opened and the two men stepped out. Commander Jamson continued with his report.

"Security has turned in the new duty roster with assignments for all shifts. Doctor Rousseau reports that all physical exams have been performed except for one sir."

As the Captain and Jamson walked toward the holodeck area, Captain Price turns and asks, "Except for one? Who hasn't reported yet?"

Jamson cleared his throat as they arrived at the holodeck entrance. Captain Price looked at the Commander as Jamson hands the Padd to him. "You Sir. Captain Robert Edward Lee Price."

The Captain glanced at the Padd and read his name off the medical record. He shook his head in disbelief as he smiled. "I must have forgotten with all of the excitement recently."

Jamson nodded. "That's what Doctor Rousseau said when she asked me to let you know you are over due."

Price smiles. "You can tell the Doctor I will report for my exam in about three hours." The Captain activated the holodeck controls making a few adjustments before the massive environmental door opened revealing a grand Polo field. "I want to give Rixx program another crack first 'mate."

"Understood Captain. I'll tell Doctor Rousseau she can be expecting you."

Captain Price nodded at his First Officer before entering the holodeck and mounting on his horse. The pressure doors closed and Commander Jamson returned to his duties on board the USS Galaxy.

"So, what's on the agenda for today?" she asked the empty room as she moved to her computer monitor.

"Computer, display messages for Ensign K'arta."

[Working] came the machine's reply.

Quickly a list of messages was displayed. Two were from the Lt. Sterner, one from Troy Blair, and one from sick-bay. She read the message from sick-bay first. It stated that she was to report to sick-bay for her physical immediatly or be suspended from duty.

"I think they can wait until I've had a bit of breakfast and read the rest of my messages," K'arta told the machine. She walked to the replicator and asked for a cup of hazelnut coffee and two slices of French toast. She walked back to her table and read the rest of her messages. It seemed Lt. Sterner had done some rearranging of the shifts and given promotions. He also wanted his security officers to use the holodeck programs more. K'arta had some free time after her shift and decided to comply with the Lt. and train on his programs even though she would rather test the program her father had given her. The last message intrigued her. It simply stated that a movie would be shown on the holodeck that evening. Unfortunately K'arta was on duty so she couldn't attend. She decided it was time to contact Ti Miran about their ride on the holodeck since it seemed the Bajoran was very shy.

----BEGIN MESSAGE----

To: Ensign Ti Miran

From: Ensign K'arta

Subject: A ride on the holodeck

Miran,
When would be a good time for you and I to go horseback riding? I'm on Beta shift right now. I'd like to go sometime in the next week if it's OK with you.

K'arta

----END MESSAGE----

With that out of the way and breakfast over with, K'arta headed for sick-bay. When she arrived the doctors wasted no time in giving her the physical exam. She was in and out quickly and very happy about that. She walked to the holosuites and reserved a timeslot after her shift. Checking the time K'arta discovered that she still had a few hours before her shift started so she headed for Ten-Forward in hopes to meet a few more people.

"Polo. On the holodeck," Commander Jamson's voice rang in the small confines of her office.

"Thanks for delivering that message, Commander."

"No problem, Doctor," Jamson responded.

"Rousseau out."

'Well,' she thought. 'Three hours from now, the dreaded physical exams will be over, finally.' she smiled slightly. 'I think I hate giving them as much as everyone else hates getting them. Except Ensign Casey...I don't think I could ever despise ANYTHING *that* much!'

She shook her head one last time and turned her attention back to her work.

From the desk of:
Commander Jacqueline E. Rousseau, M.D.

Unable to sleep, Dyllan found himself walking sullen through some miscellaneous corridor on some miscellaneous deck of the huge ship. Mostly he was board. His short conversation with the Vulcan counselor had been entertaining; and he hoped amiable. Mr. Shivok was an unusual fellow by Dyllan’s estimation. There was more to him than just Vulcan. Not that he had ever really met many Vulcans; but Shivok didn’t seem to come off as sterile as expected. He even cracked a joke. At least it seamed to have been a joke, maybe more of a humorous anecdote. Never-the-less perhaps knowing Shivok would prove to be a worthwhile investment.

Turning a corner on level 16 Dyllan decided leave the main hall, opening up a Jeffries tube access panel. The tube was typical, cramped and uncomfortable to the knees. He crawled in and replaced the access panel. If he remembered correctly this tube ran long-ways along the battle section until it met up with the central warp engine access tube. From there he should be able to gain access to either of the nacelles maintenance control area’s. This time of night there would probably be only one officer assigned to both nacelles. His prediction was correct, and Dyllan now found himself in the port nacelle power-flow maintenance chamber.

Releasing the lock allowed access to the mater/anti-mater flow collection chamber and a protective shield popped into existence. Radiant energy filtered through the force field casting an erie glow in the darkened room. The flow chamber crackled as huge pulsation’s of matter impacted with the anti-matter flow stream providing power for the enormous engine. Dyllans skin crawled and a euphoric sensation swept over his body. Being this close to the matter flow was not unlike inhaling nitrous oxide gas. As he closed the distance between him and the force field the euphoric effect intensified. He almost felt as if he were suspended above the deck plate. Vehement vibrations swept out from his mid-section and settled in his fingertips. In a minute or so he had completely lost himself as every nerve in his body radiated with the energy disseminating from the reaction chamber. His mind was clear, his body was exhilarated, his ass was toast!

A voice broke through a moment of complete vivacity. Dyllan swung around slamming his fist on the switch which would close the protective bulkhead separating the reaction chamber from the maintenance control area. A Tamerian sporting Jr. Grade Lt. pips stood on the lower deck. "You are Lt. Shane I assume? I don’t believe we have met. I am Tama Pentl Chiron. You may call me Tama. I wasn’t aware that the duty roster had changed. Are you assigned to monitor this area today?

Blood drained back into his cheeks as the now closed shielded bulkhead deminished the effects of energy exposure. He was embarrassed, but apply intent to recover the situation. Mr. Chiron, pleased to meet you. His arm found its way to Mr. Chiron’s back in a friendly gesture as he conducted the Tamerian towards the door. "I still find myself amazed at the size of this ship, don’t you?"

LtJg Dyllan Shane
USS Galaxy, Engineering

20:30 hours, time for the movie. Troy and Shtik were standing at the holodeck entrance greeting everyone as they came in. A few people even brought some refreshments, such as James bringing popcorn. (Troy was armed to the teeth with all the candy that was common to 20th century cinemas.) It looked to be a promising evening.

As everyone entered, they were stopped by a holo-character, wearing an ushers uniform and holding a flashlight, telling them what theatre the movie was playing in. "Third door on the right" the character kept repeating, pointing with the flashlight in the direction of the door. The theatre the movie was in was enormous, it had the common feature called "stadium seating", with speakers running up the walls. The stairs were carpeted with a dark purple carpet that had intricate little designs on them, green hand rails ran down the center. The staggered seats were covered in a plush purple material with head rests, and could rock a little. Each arm rest even had a cup holder in them. To the front of the theatre was the "big screen" which was slightly curved.

There were a few holo-characters scattered around in the seats, and ushers hurried up and down the stairs checking "tickets". Everyone seemed pleased with the amount of detail Shtik put into the program.

After everyone had their seats, the lights dimmed and the speakers crackled as they came to life. There was brief silence, then the Star Wars theme music filled the air. As words began to scroll across the screen, Troy- along with everyone else- noticed something odd about the picture. It didn't look right, it was..... out of focus.

"FOCUS!.... FOCUS!.... FOCUS!" everyone screamed, and even launched some snack items at the screen. Troy saw a slight smile come over Shtik's face, he did that on purpose.

After a few more volleys of popcorn and candy the screen came into focus, just in time for the opening scene. Troy was enjoying the movie, and happy eating his candy, but about half way through it, a couple of watchers became a little loud. It was Mitchell and Jensen. It was hard to see what they were doing, but they kept passing a bottle between each other. Troy ignored it, until they began to sing odd songs.

"Hey! Down in front! How 'bout a little silence?" One of the Holo- characters yelled.

"Oh, sher mistur. Tha's no problem." Mitchell replied in a slur.

The theatre was silent again, except for the movie's dialogue.

"They're good guys, but I hope whatever they're drinking doesn't make them do something they'd regret" Troy thought to himself as he looked in Mitchell and Jensen's direction.

Lieutenant JG Troy Blair
Tactical Officer, USS Galaxy

Finally, he got up, changed from his robes to his uniform and left his quarters.

Shtik was momentarily startled when Troy Blair appeared in the hallway outside of the holodeck calling his name. He tried to use his body to block what he was doing at the holodeck controls.

"Ah Troy, I was checking the program for tonight to make sure the detail is exact." Shtik was certain that his nervousness would show, however humans weren't prone to the subtlties of vulcan reactions.

"The more detail the better. Listen, everyone keeps asking me what we are going to see, and I keep having to answer I don't know. So what are we seeing?" Troy asked. Shtik relaxed slightly. When he told him about his film selection, Troy went off to notify the rest of the crew and Shtik resumed his work.

The theatre was done up like one of the great old movie houses of the thirties. With plush seats, grand balconies, giant chandeliers and rocco scrollwork everywhere. Built for a time when going to the movies was an all day event. There was a large crowd for this premier of the Galaxy Film Society. Only a couple of crew members found the used chewing gum Shtik had placed under the seats for autenticity. The crowd seemed stunned by the surroundings and it seemed that the grandure would compete for attention with the film. Even the smell and sound of crunching popcorn added to the atmoshphere. But when the lights dimmed and the giant curtain parted, every eye was glued to the screen. Everyone was entranced by the movie (Except for one instance, during one of the more dramatic battles, when someone blurted out that fighting the empire wasn't as tough as fighting the borg. That received some chuckles).

Eventually, the film reached it's climax. In the final scene, the heros were presented in a great hall where they recieved medals for their heroic deeds. When they all turned to face the audience for the final tableau, the crew actually roared with applause. Shtik had never really understood the tendency of humans to applaude for a film. Especially for stars who had been dead for centuries. But he approved of the positive reaction his choice of film was receiving.

Suddenly, everyone froze as the lead hero, Luke, raised his hands and motioned for quiet.

"Excuse me, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Galaxy, I have something to say." Luke announced. Troy snapped a look at Shtik, this was not part of the film. "There is someone among you," Luke said as he stepped out of the screen and became a three dimensional part of the holoprogram, "someone who has proven herself a dedicated officer, a skilled physician and a beautiful woman." On the screen, Princess Leia gave a playful Hrumph of jealosy. Luke continued as he and R2-D2 strolled down the aisle. They stopped in front of Lt. D'tarna Bellen. "Lt. Bellen, it is with all this in mind that Lt. jg Shtik would like to have the honor of asking for your hand in marrage." With that R2 rolled up, opened his dome and presented a large bouquiet of roses. Finally, Shtik turned to look at the wide eyed Lt.

"D'tarna, would you marry me?" Shtik asked raising an eyebrow, "It would be only locial." On the screen, Chewbacca roared.

Lt. JG Kane wasn't really a party animal, and so had skipped most of the Christmas and New Year party in ten-forward, though he did visit the party once.

Kane didn't have anything to do at the moment, so he started to think about their next mission. Why an admiral would choose the Galaxy to transport him to a starbase puzzled him. There were a dozen (or so) closer ships.And why would an admiral divert a starship? A Transport would do just fine. Kane doubted he would get the answers to his questions soon.

Julian King
aka Lt. JG Kane, Assistant Chief Engineer, USS Galaxy
Captain Bondar, CO, USS Sovereign

"Excuse me, Ladies and Gentlemen of the Galaxy, I have something to say. There is someone among you," Luke said as he stepped out of the screen and became a three dimensional part of the holoprogram. Bellen giggled.

Luke continued, "Someone who has proven herself a dedicated officer, a skilled physician and a beautiful woman." On the screen, Princess Leia gave a playful Hrumph of jealosy. 'Somebody's got a crush on Rousseau!' Bellen thought.

Luke, accompanied by R2-D2, strolled down the aisle. They stopped in front of Lt. D'tarna Bellen. "Lt. Bellen, it is with all this in mind that Lt. jg Shtik would like to have the honor of asking for your hand in marrage." With that R2 rolled up, opened his dome and presented a large bouquiet of roses. She listened with utter amazement. Everything else ceased to exist. The movie theater, the hum of the ship's engines-everything accept the holo-characters and Shtik, who now stood nearby showing emotion that only a vulcan could decipher.

Finally, Shtik turned to look at the wide eyed Lt. "D'tarna, would you marry me?" Shtik asked raising an eyebrow, "It would be only logical." On the screen, Chewbacca roared.

Bellen felt like fainting. She beamed a smile of disbelief at Luke who urged her to answer. She grabbed the roses and jumped into Shtik's arms never wanting to leave them. She kissed him, finding that all she could do. Words had disppeared with the theater. The crowd roared once more in unison this time for the two vulcans. Relief, happiness...no. Single emotions couldn't even partially explain what she felt. The one image that stood out in her mind was a picture of the 20th century stone-faced comic Stephen Wright hanging next to one of Buster Keaton.

Lt. Bellen
USS Galaxy

---- BEGIN MESSAGE ----

TO: All security personal aboard USS Galaxy

FROM: Lieutenant Sterner

SUBJECT: Holoprogram data

THIS MAIL SHOULD ONLY REMIND YOU, THAT YOU SHOULD USE THE SECURITY HOLOPROGRAMS MORE RECENTLY AND SEND IN THE DATA COLLECTED BY THE COMPUTER AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. I HAVEN'T RECEIVED COMPUTER DATA FROM SOME OF YOU THIS WEEK, SO PLEASE SEND THEM IN VERY SOON.

THANKS FOR YOU HELP

Lieutenant Joerg Sterner, Chief of Security, USS Galaxy

---- END MESSAGE ----

Ensign Thomas Enquist found the order for Holodeck exercises in his mail. It made sense, and maybe that’s what Thomas needed right now, to blow a fuse or something, on the holocomputer.

He went down to the holodeck, finding it unoccupied for the moment, something unusual with all this training and education, going on.

"Computer: Initiate program security-alpha12."
*Program complete, enter when ready*

"Begin program. Create short sword, and Maine-Gauche, Toledo steel quality." Thomas found the requested weapons, and tested them in his hands. They could have been made for him...

"Computer: Set difficulty level 2. Start program."

Thomas wanted some warm ups, before staging the odds. A warrior, a venetian, by the look of him, came out of the fogs, brandishing what looked like the duplicate armament of Thomas own. They took a stance, and Thomas tried to evaluate the fighting style of his opponent. They circled each other, and Thomas thought. Definitely venetian. Thomas feinted, expecting a certain response, and satisfied with it, he maintained a series of parries, and ripostes, to get warm. "Time for the kill." Thomas found the opponent unchallenging, so he decided to finish him off, and get another opponent. Another feint opened for the Main-Gauche to lock the others sword, and Thomas put the sword in between the second and third rib, thrusting it down to the hilt. The venetian shuddered, and vanished. Thomas grinned to himself. Now for something tougher.

"Computer: Set difficulty level 3. Start program."

This time, a female warrior stepped out of the fog. Her face was obscured the large plumed hat. Thomas frowned, "Shit, this IS an intelligent simulation, it knows I got more difficulties fighting women!" They entered their positions, and Thomas was more concerned than he thought he needed to be, and was steeling himself to end this quickly, no cat-and-mouse game this time. She began her moves, and feints, and Thomas had a hard time, just to fend her off. He shook of the creepy feeling, and began analyze her style instead. Now Thomas was beginning to feel more and more secure, and even started the Viking grin of his. She was good, as it should be on this level, but Thomas was giving cuts and near hit more often receiving. He then made his disarmament maneuver, and got the opening he needed. He prepared to thrust his sword into the chest, as she struggled to disentangle her weapon.

And then, disaster struck. The large feathered hat of hers slid of her head, and Thomas got the first look at her face, and froze. "Nooo!" He stumbled back, releasing her sword. "Svetlana.." She twisted her sword around and pushed it into his chest, past the paralyzed defenses, and everything went black.

Lieutenant Commander Teshir Bajoul, Chief Councelor, USS Sovereign
Lieutenant Svetlana Andropova, Chief Councelor, USS Crusader
Ensign Jack Straker, Computer Engineer, Station Beta 2
Ensign Thomas Enquist, Security Officer, USS Galaxy

He made his way to the mess hall and was about to enter, when he was stopped by Captain Price.

"Lieutenant, I've got a question for you."

"Yes sir?" Troy replied while turning his head.

"Are you related to an Admiral William Blair?"

"Yes I am sir, he's my grandfather. Why do you ask?" Troy was puzzled.

"As you may know we're on our way to Earth, the Admiral has requested the Galaxy transport him to Outpost Station 53."

"Really? why?"

"I don't know, the reason is classified 'mate."

"Sounds interesting. I wonder what it could be?" Troy asked

"It could be anything."

"Well sir, when we make it to Earth would you mind letting me know when my grandfather is on board? I'd appreciate it."

"Sure, no problem Lieutenant. Well, if you'll excuse me I've got other business to attend to."

The Captain turned and continued down the corridor. Troy scratched his head, he wondered why his grandfather wanted the Galaxy, there were many ships that were closer. He knew it wasn't because he was on the Galaxy, there had to be other reasons. His grandfather wouldn't choose a ship, because one of his grandsons or granddaughters was on it. He'd choose it because it fitted the mission that laid ahead. Well, no use in worrying about that now, he'd ask his grandfather as soon as he was on board. Troy shrugged his shoulders and entered the mess hall.

Lieutenant JG Troy Blair
Tactical Officer, USS Galaxy

Joerg was working at his desk, writing a report about the recent encounter with the Borg, when suddenly a computer generated message appeared on his display.

"PROGRAM SECURITY-ALPHA12: EMERGENCY SHUT DOWN ON HOLODECK 3" was written in bold letters on his computer console.

Joerg instantly knew that something terrible has happened on holodeck 3. All his holodeck programs had a security feature once the life of the person running the program should somehow be in danger. First the main program shuts down and then informs the security department of the emergency. Someone must be in danger on holodeck 3, Joerg thought and ran out of the door. Quickly he entered the nearest turbolift and was on his way to the holodeck level.

Some seconds later he arrived at holodeck 3. The doors were completely shut, but he quickly entered his security code to override the holodeck's controls and stormed in. Then he saw Ensign Enquist lying in a puddle of his own blood on the floor of the holodeck. He quickly tapped his communicator.

"Sterner to sickbay."

[Dr. Rousseau here.]

"Doctor, please prepare on of your beds for an emergency. Ensign Enquist has received a serious wound in his chest in a holodeck program."

[Understood. I'll do the necessary preparations.]

After that Joerg tapped his communicator again, to order an emergency transport to sickbay.

"Sterner to transporter room."

[Chief Jensen here.]

"Emergency transport for two to sickbay." Joerg simply ordered.

After that Thomas and Joerg dematerialized, just to reappear seconds later in sickbay. After their arrival doctors and nurses quickly began to scan the Ensign. Joerg just stood there and hoped it was not to late for Thomas Enquist.

While the medical staff was busily trying to save Enquist's life, Captain Price, who was in sickbay for his physical examination, approached Lieutenant Sterner.

"Lieutenant, what happened to Ensign Enquist?" he asked.

"Sir, I don't know for certain. The only thing I know is that his was training with some security training program of mine on holodeck 3. Luckily I included a feature that informs security of an abnormal situation that occurred while running the program. In Ensign Enquist's case, it looks like the safety setting somehow was deactivated." Joerg tried to explain with a sad expression on his face.

"How could this have happened? I want you to find out what caused the malfunction and repair it!" the Captain ordered.

But when he saw the sad and guilty looking Lieutenant, he added "Don't blame yourself 'mate. I'm sure he will survive."

"Thank you sir. I think that as a precaution I shall close holodeck 3 until the reason for the malfunction was found." Joerg said and after the Captain's approval he left sickbay to begin his investigation.

He returned to holodeck 3 and ordered the computer to let nobody in except security and engineering personal on duty. Then he entered the holodeck again. The blood of Ensign Enquist was still on the floor, but Joerg just headed for the computer console at the exit of the holodeck. He accessed the log of the recently used holodeck programs and the appropriate holodecks. He quickly came to the conclusion that the other security officers, who tried his program today, were all running the program on other holodecks than number 3. After that he tapped his comm badge again.

"Sterner to Engineering."

[Capizzi here.]

"I need an engineer here in holodeck 3. I think there is something wrong with the safety system of this one. Please send an engineer here to check it as soon as possible."

[OK, I'll send one right away.]

"You can reach me in my office, if there is anything new. Sterner out." Joerg concluded.

Some minutes later he was in his office again. Just as he sat down in his chair, he remembered that there was to be a movie shown on one of the holodecks that night. He quickly checked, but was relieved that it was not on holodeck 3. Because the movie night was not about to begin soon he decided to go back to work.

He wrote a message to all ship's personal, that holodeck 3 will be unavailable for the time of the investigation and another message to the security personal on the ship, that the training program 'security-alpha12' is not to be used until further notice.

After his shift ended he went back to his quarters to relax and think about the recent events on holodeck 3 before going to the holodeck.

At the appropriate time he was waiting with all the others in front of the holodeck. After the doors opened and everyone entered he was about to start a pleasant evening, that let him forget that day's horrible event.

"Computer"

[beep]

"Begin recording."

[recording in process.] "To Captain Robert E.Lee Price...From Lt. D'tarna Bellen...Subject Wedding...Captain, I don't know if you were at the movie on the holodeck yesterday, but it turns out that Lt.jg Shtik and I will be getting married. We both would be honored if you would attend the wedding and perform the cerimony. Lt. Bellen..Computer, end recording. Send message"

[message sent]

Bellen laid back down. She tossed, turned...still couldn't sleep. She sat up once more, quite annoyed at her over-emotional symbiot. She sighed.

"Computer. Begin recording."

["recording in progress."]

"To Notak and Urta, Vulcan home world. From D'tarna. Hello mother, father. Are you well? Something quite...intriguing has happened recently. Do you remember Shtik? He has proposed marriage and I have accepted. The ceremony will take place soon, on the Galaxy...will you be able to attend? I anticipate your reply. Live long and prosper. D'tarna. Computer, end recording. Send message."

[Message sent]

D'tarna attempted to sleep, once more, to no avail. She got out of bed, walked over to her guitar and began playing a rendition of a vulcan lullaby. She was asleep in no time...

Lt. Bellen
USS Galaxy

Perspiration covered the Captain's face. His Polo game in the holodeck was quite invigorating. "Next time..." He thought. "Next time I'll beat that damn program of yours Rixx."

Dismounting from his horse, Captain Price grabs a towel and dabs it on his face and neck. Once dried off somewhat, the Captain commands, "Computer. Save program and exit." Soon the black and yellow hologrid appears as the exit doors decompress and open.

Captain Price walks to the turbolift, then heads to his quarters to shower and change. He is glad he had received a good work out, but a little disappointed that he had still not defeated Rixx polo team.

Before leaving to report to sickbay for his physical exam with Doctor Rousseau, the Captain decides to check his messages. There is one there of note.

To: Captain Lee Price, C.O. USS Galaxy
From: Fleet Admiral William Blair, StarFleet Command

Captain Price,
I am in need of transport from Earth to Outpost Station 53, near the Romulan Neutral zone. The reason of this transport is classified. I request that the Galaxy be the ship to take me to the outpost. Please come to Earth as quickly as possible.

End Message

Price raised an eyebrow at the word classified. That more than anything had peaked his curiosity.

"Admiral Blair," he said aloud to himself, "I wonder if he is related to Lieutenant Blair in Tactical?"

The Captain's thoughts quickly turned to the science department and the nebula they were currently surveying. He taps his comm badge.

"Captain Price to Lieutenant T'Nevin."

["T'Nevin here Captain. Go ahead."]

"Lieutenant, I am afraid we are going to have to cut the scientific survey of the nebula short. We have received new orders. Please finish up with your current sweeps of readings as quickly as possible."

["Understood Captain. We should be ready in a few minutes."]

"Good. Let the Helmsman know when it's safe to go to Warp. Captain Price out."

Again Captain Price activated his comm badge. "Captain Price to Bridge."

["Coe here Sir."]

"Commander, I have just received new orders from Starfleet. We are to head to Earth and pick up Admiral Blair for transport to Outpost station 53. I'd like to depart as soon as the science team finishes their next sensor sweep."

["Yes Captain. I'll have the Helmsman plot a course. Speed Sir?"]

"Warp 5 Commander. I have to report to medical for an exam. I will be there should you need me."

["Understood Sir. I will inform Commander Jamson when he returns to the bridge. Coe out."]

Glancing at the message on his terminal, the Captain saves it before standing, straightening his duty uniform, and exiting his quarters in route for sickbay and Doctor Rousseau's exam.

"I wonder what that is." she said to no one in particular.

----BEGIN MESSAGE----
TO: Ensign K'arta
FROM: Lt. (jg) Ti Miran
SUBJECT: Holodeck

I'd like to meet with you soon to talk about the holodeck. I'm going to need your help.

Ti
----END MESSAGE----

Ti's message was short, sweet and to the point. K'arta was glad she had gotten a response from the Bajoran. She sent a message in reply.

----BEGIN MESSAGE----

TO: Lt. (jg) Ti Miran
FROM: Ensign K'arta
SUBJECT: Re: Holodeck

How does 01:00 sound? We can meet in my quarters. I know it's late, but I can't think of a better time. I think we're both off duty then.
K'arta
----END MESSAGE----

K'arta was curoius about what Ti needed help with, but figured that she might want to learn some new riding styles. K'arta got dressed and noticed that her bruise was much better than it had been. She was relieved that she didn't have to make another trip to sickbay. She put her hair up and headed out the door to begin her watch.

****K'arta's quarters, 01:00****

Her shift had ended and K'arta was back in her quarters getting a snack when she heard the door chime.

"Come in." she called, knowing it would be Ti. "Hello." she said as the Bajoran entered.

"Hello." Ti answered

. "Would you like anything?" K'arta was trying to be polite, but the suspense was killing her.

"Pyrellian Ginger Tea, please."

K'arta asked the replicator for the tea, chocolate cake and a glass of milk. She handed the tea to Ti and sat down with her cake.

"You said that you wanted my help with something. What?" K'arta questioned.

"Well, I want to surprise someone." Ti answered shyly.

"OK. Can I ask who?"

"I'd rather not say."

"Well, then, what do you want to do?" K'arta had to get all the details. Ti outlined her plan starting with what she all ready had done and finished with the grand finale.

"Hmmm, that sounds fun. I have a few suggestions though." K'arta told what she thought about the plans.

"I have an idea. Let's set it up on the holodeck." Ti finished for the Klinon.

"Sounds good."

The pair headed for Deck 11 to set everything up.

"Ensign K'arta to Captain Price."

[Price here.] The Captain sounded as if he just woke up.

"Captain, can you meet me in holodeck three?"

[Is this necessary, 'mate?]

"Well, it would be interesting, Captain."

[All right, give me some time.]

"Thank you sir. K'arta out."

She felt bad about waking the captain, but she had heard he liked horses. Arriving at the holodeck, she found Miran waiting for her.

"Is everything ready?" K'arta asked her.

"Yes." She nodded smiling.

"Great." K'arta waited until Miran was occupied and asked the computer for another seat.

****Outside the holodeck*****

Casey, Bellen, and Jensen arrived at the holodeck. When they saw each other they looked puzzled.

"OK, D'Tarna, what's the big secret?" Casey asked of her.

"I was under the impression that you sent me a note asking me to meet you here." Bellen answered solemnly.

They both turned to Jensen looking for an explanation. He backed away from their combined gaze.

"Don't look at me. I don't know what is going on." Jensen said.

Suddenly the doors opened. Curious, they all peered inside. Their eyes were greeted by a Wind Dancer from the Parallax Colony. The red, blue, and lime-green checkered face beckoned them inside. They entered and the bubble bobbed in front of them making faces. It didn't lead them to their seats until each had laughed. The path to their seats was illuminated by running lights, the rest of the holodeck was dark. To top it off, the running lights went out.

"Whoa wait a minute! Who turned out the lights?" Jensen exclaimed.

"D'tarna, I'm afraid of the dark." Casey said softly in Bellen's ear.

"What?" He had her confused. He knew she would be confused and started laughing.

"Just kidding."

Then a voice spoke from nowhere. It had an attitude.

"All right, here we go! Two guys and a female Vulcan walk into a dark room--" it began.

"HEY! That's NOT what were here for." A second voice interrupted.

"Well, what are we here for?" the first voice asked.

*SMACK*

"Oh, yeah. Thanks for the reminder."

The holodeck doors opened again. A figure stole in and the Wind Dancer guided it to the extra seat. A spotlight illuminated a ringmaster in the center of the arena.

"Lady and gentlemen: we are proud to present, for your viewing pleasure, the one, the only......WILD WILD WEST SHOW!!!!!" the ringmaster cracked his whip and a spotlight behind them came up. A horse reared and screamed it's challenge in the light. The sharp report of gunfire made them spin back to the arena. Chaos reigned. The madness was led by a rider carrying a flag bearing the Federation insignia. A stage coach followed the flag bearer. A woman in the coach was screaming. Indians followed close behind peppering the stage coach with arrows. One turnedand aimedhis bow at the spectators. Their eyes become saucers as he let the arrow fly. IT passed between Jensen and Captain Price striking the man on the horse behind them. He fell, the arrow lodged in his chest. As Ti entered with her shotgun blazing, Casey fell out of his chair. Her long hair was down for once. She was dressed in leather pants, a plaid shirt, and a Stetson hat. More horses and riders entered. Cowboys with their ropes and guns smoking raced in. A lone calf darted from the melee. One of the cowboys galloped after it with his rope ready. He lassoed and hog-tied the calf right in front onlookers. They sat in amazement. Soon they noticed that most of the riders had guided their animals to one end of the arena.

Through the gate came four matching Appaloosa horses. The rider was wearing a green shirt and leather pants. Guiding the spotted horses was K'arta. She stood with onefoot on each of the two rear horses. Holding the reins in one hand and a bull whip in the other, K'arta galloped her mounts around the arena before pulling them to a stop in front of the small audience. She cracked her whip and the front horses reared. Quickly she separated the reins and let her leading horses go. The appaloosas whirled and galloped away. K'arta guided the horses she was astride in tight figure eights and circles. When the demonstration was finished she again turned toward the audience. The other horses joined her in the center of the arena. With a leap she was astride one of her first horses. She rode with her hands in the air, gripping the saddle with her legs, as her mount raced around the arena. Dropping her hands and grasping the saddlehorn K'arta threw her right leg over the rump of her horse. Her feet hit the ground and sent up a small spray of arena dust. No sooner than her feet hit the ground she was back astride. Again she seemed to dismount at the gallop. This time however, instead of landing back on the horse, she landed on the other side of it. Then she was back aboard her Appaloosa. The spectators watched K'arta's riding antics closely, in suspense about what would happen next. Soon K'arta exited with her mounts.

Ti rode in on a golden Palomino. She would be doing the sharpshooting exhibition of the show. She was armed with a double-barreled shotgun. She fired the antique weapon, hitting her target. She started to do trick shooting. She carefully slid down the side of the beautiful horse. She hit a clay pigeon from her precarious position. An apple appeared on Casey's head. She effectively shot the apple. She did a trick she had found reading about Earth's Annie Oakley. She dismounted the horse; a playing card appeared at the end of the arena. She aimed the gun over her shoulder using a mirror. She shot the card through the heart. The Palomino galloped back to her. She mounted and exited the arena floor.

The ringmaster reappeared in the center of the arena.

"Thank you, lady and gentlemen, for coming to our show. This has been a production of the Galaxy Broadcasting Network. Brought to you by the letters K and T and the number 17, because that's how many people were killed."

The lights went out again and someone clearing their throat could be heard. "Ah-hem. So, did I ever tell you the one about the Bajoran and the Klingon? No? Well, here we go then-" A gunshot interrupted the voice. The second voice was heard saying innocently, "Did I do that?"

Kristi

"Deiran, thanks for coming."

"Sure. What's up?"

"Well," she paused and sighed. "I was wondering..."

"Ya know, D'tarna? You have an evil streak in you!" Joked Deiran. "For god sakes what IS IT?!"

"Would you give me away at my wedding?"

Lt. Bellen
USS Galaxy