"Ensign K'arta to sickbay."

[Go ahead.]

"There is a medical emergency outside holodeck 3."

[What type of injury?]

"A stab wound. The woman is unconsious also."

[Can you bring her to sickbay? We're swamped right now.]

"On my way. K'arta out."

K'arta gingerly picked the woman up and headed for the turbolift. She arrived in sickbay and the woman was quickly taken by a team of nurses.

When Ronni awoke, there was a handsome Nurse standing over her, scanning her.

"So, you're awake." he said.

"I think so." she said. "I was attacked by my holodeck program."

"Well you're not the first. Fortunately K'tara found you. You might have died if you hadn't been brought when you were." said the Nurse.

"I'ld like to meet this K'tara." Ronni said.

"I'll see what the Doctor says, until then, rest." he said.

Ronni laid back down and closed her eyes. "What a day!" she thought.

Lt jg Quall was sitting at the security desk; however this time he was behind it. Many PADDs littered the desk, as he was trying to become updated with latest in security information.

Command was very new to Ryan. It was his first jump in the chain of command. He felt the pips on his collar... and then Assistant Chief of Security! Things seemed to be looking up for me, he thought; and Ryan returned his attention to the duty roster.

There weren't any major problems today... well.... there was one: a lost cat.

Quall tapped the security communication controls.

"Quall to Aaron."

["Yes sir?"] Aaron's low voice replied.

"We've got a report of a lost cat on deck 10. It's name is Tabby. See if you can locate it.", Quall ordered. Wow... his first command order!

["I'm on it, sir."]

"Careful! I think it's armed.", Quall joked. "Security out."

Lt. jg Quall
Assistant Chief of Security
USS Galaxy

"Computer run Ti-Sigma 27." An Arabian stood in front of her. She was now on a vast plain. She vaulted onto the horse and rode off. She began going through basic moves. Here she felt free as the wind blew through her hair. As she rode, she thought that she would have to get K'arta to teach her more of tricks that she wanted to learn.

**Later**

Ti came up with an idea as she walked to her quarters. She wanted to do something special for Casey and Jensen. She decided to invite Bellen because she was close to Casey. She would need to get K'arta's help but it might just work.

She sat down at her table with the calligraphy set she received two years ago from Robert's parents. She very carefully wrote three invitations to meet at Holodeck three. She did not sign the letters. She hoped that they would be intrigued enough in the letters to come and find out who sent them. People rarely used real paper so it would be a mystery. She made her way to their quarters and left the notes without anybody noticing.

Ensign Thomas Enquist felt the sword penetrate his skin, forcing it’s way into his chest. Again and again, the pain never ended. Suddenly, he jerked up, only to find him strapped to a bed. He opened his eyes, trying to locate his whereabouts. A nurse by an analysis computer, looked up. "Ah, so you are awake now, Ensign? How do you feel?"

Thomas groaned. "I don’t know yet. How long have I been here, nurse?"

She looked at a PADD, finding his report. "You’ve been with us for three days now."

Thomas groaned again. "Three days! I got to get back to work! Let me out of this contraption!"

The nurse shook her head. "Oh no you don’t! We have to keep you here for another day or two, for observation. You were close to death. Had it not been for Lieutenant jg Hutchcraft, you would have left us prematurely. " Thomas could feel where the holographic sword entered his chest, it still hurt. "Hey, wait a minute. Aren’t these holo simulations supposed to be harmless?"

She walked over to him, looking agitated. "Yes, they should be, but you and some more security officers apparently managed to hurt yourselves anyway! Why do you ‘macho’ types always invent new ways to hurt yourselves or others!"

Thomas could not believe his ears. More had been hurt in the holodeck! Must be a computer failure. Maybe Jack Straker could find the problem, he was always tapping away on his computer at the Academy. He’s at Station Beta 2, right? Maybe a little message to him could get some results. "Listen, nurse. Could you please give me a Comm. stick, so I can record a message to a friend of mine? I guess you have to untie my hands so I can hold it while I talk."

The nurse leaned forward, smiling. "I am sorry, Ensign, but my orders are to keep you tied down, so that you do not do anything stupid, such as standing up, and leave before you are healed. I am afraid that you have to rely on me to do all the little things for you, such as holding the stick."

She blushed a little, but held up the Comm. stick, to show what stick she meant. Thomas blushed deeper, but started the recording.

Subspace message, Station Beta 2

To: Ensign Jack Straker, engineering officer
From: Ensign Thomas Enquist, security officer

Jack, I am in trouble. I was training a security program on the holodeck, and all went smooth. Then suddenly, the program somehow sensed my aversion to hurt women, and adapted itself. It was hard but I managed until it adapted itself again, taking the face of Svetlana, you know, the PolSci instructor at the Academy. I went inert, and the damn hologram stuck a sword in my chest. If it had not been for a fellow security officer, I could have died! I know you to be a computer Geek, have you ever heard of such a thing happening? I am now hospitalized, completely at the mercy of the nurse, and she will not let me talk any more. Got to go! Call me when you get in again. Tjaba!

***EOM***

Thomas was tired, and his head fell back to the bed after the ordeal. The nurse tucked him in, and downloaded the message to the subspace module.

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

"There. Straight. 10-Jack-Queen-King-Ace."

"Darn, beats my Three of a kind..."

"And my straight... 4-5-6-7-8."

Chiron Smiled all night he had only won one other game. He knew he wasn't good at poker, he just had fun playing it. After all, that's why humans like games so much, isn't it? To have fun?

He swept the tokens his way.

"I don't know about you two, but I feel tired."

"Yeah, 2 hours of poker? Must be some kind of record."

Bellen grimaced as she got up out of the chair.

"I believe it would be wise to stop before we grow weary of the company."

Did Shtik just make a joke? All the Vulcans Chiron had known at the academy were stuck-up and non-emotional. He rather liked Humans because of their emotionality.

"Thank you for playing, and congratulations on your engagement."

The both responded at the same time, "Thank you."

Then they left, and Chiron was left alone. He decided to retire a little early, so he crawled into bed, and quickly fell asleep.

"Hey, small one!"

Chiron turned around. He knew by the voice that it was Kinto, the school bully.

"Yes, I mean you. I think you know why I want to talk to you."

"You want to hurt me."

"Yes, and do you know why?"

"No."

"Because I enjoy it. You always make it interesting!"

Chiron groaned. This had happened before, and he didn't want to go through it again. Today was his turn to read for the class, but if this incedent would be any repeat, he would have to go back home. Chiron stood there and said "Not today, Kinto." and started to walk away. Suddenly Kinto and two of his friends pounced on Chiron, pummeling him with their fists, and kicking him. Chiron started to yell, but a foot planted squarely in his mouth convinced him otherwise. 'I wish these goyaks would burn in a plasma conduit!' He thought.

All of a sudden, The assault stopped. He turned himself over, and saw Kinto running away screaming 'I'm on fire! I'm on fire!' Kinto's friends looked into Chiron's eyes, and they too ran away. Chiron's eyes had turned from a metallic grey color to a firey red. Chiron, drained by the assault and by his fledgeling telepathic abilities passed out, unconcious.

Chiron's eyes snapped open. He had not dreamed that dream for years, why now? Chiron got up, not able to sleep anymore. He went over to the washbasin, and splashed some cold water over his face. Retreiving a towel from one of the drawers, he dryed his face and looked in the mirror.

His eyes were a deep shade of red. He started, and then noticed his hand.

The back of his hand had burn marks that had not been there before.

His hand flew to his communicator.

"Chiron to... Chiron to Doctor Rousseau!"

"Yes, Chiron, what seems to be the problem?"

"I must see you in Sick Bay, I'll be there shortly, Chiron out."

Cutting off any response she may have made, Chiron tapped his comm pin again, and headed out the door to Sick Bay.

Eric Hanson, "The Schizoid Man"
Lt. JG Chiron, Engineer, USS Galaxy [E-Mail]
Lt. JG Varin Reix, Science, Station Beta 2 [E-Mail]
Lt. JG Tal Breno, Science, USS Horizon [E-Mail, IRC]

Admiral Blair, Captain Price and his senior staff all assembled in the executive conference room. As Captain Price glanced around at each member of his staff, he wondered if he should have ordered dress uniforms for the Admiral. Dismissing the thought, Price decides the Admiral seems too concerned with this assignment to worry about such formalities.

Everyone takes their seats, including Captain Price whom surrenders his seat at the head of the table to Admiral Blair. Glancing at the crew, he can tell they are all as curious about this "secret" assignment as he is.

With a friendly nod to his grandson, Lieutenant jg Troy Blair as he sits in his first senior staff meeting with the Galaxy crew, the Admiral begins his presentation.

"Thank you Captain Price, for assembling your staff." The Admiral starts, as he places an isolinear chip into the slot on the table. The view screen behind him illuminates with a graphic. Standing, he continues as he walks near the display panel on the far wall.

"To explain the importance of our current assignment I must regress back to over one hundred years ago. Back before the time of Kittomer. When the Federation was not aligned with the Klingons or the Romulans. If there are any history buffs among us, you may recognize this star chart."

Admiral Blair paused momentarily to survey the crew. Noticing a couple of nods, he continued.

"This is an area near the Romulan Neutral zone. The bases along which fell victim to attacks from a strange, powerful weapon. It was the flagship Enterprise that was sent to investigate. The confrontation ultimately lead to the destruction of a Romulan Bird of Prey that was fitted with a developmental Plasma weapon of incredible power. When the Enterprise destroyed her, she effectively eliminated the prototype."

Admiral Blair deactivates the view screen before turning and taking his seat at the head of the table.

"Until now." Blair looked around the room at the faces of the senior staff. He definitely had everyone's attention.

"A short time ago we were contacted by a Romulan woman, N'Prng. She informed the Federation that the Romulans have been able to reconstruct their research on the plasma cannon and are preparing to go into production on a new prototype."

This was shocking news, the Captain thought, as he interrupted Blair. "Admiral, how is it this woman knows about what must be a very secret project in the Romulan Government? Couldn't this be some kind of trick? Misinformation perhaps?"

Blair shook his head sideways as he smiled slightly. "No Captain. N'Prng is the wife of one of the lead scientists on the project." The Admiral reaches and reactivates the view screen. "We had Starfleet Intelligence check out the woman, and the prototype project. As you can see from these slides, production has already begun."

Captain Price nods. The Admiral had made a believer out of him. Glancing around the room, many of the other officers also began to understand the seriousness of this assignment.

"Admiral. What exactly is our assignment?" It was Lieutenant T'Lein. His Vulcan voice steady and unwavering.

"Yes. We are to head to Outpost station 53 and stand by. This Romulan woman will be crossing the Neutral zone to defect to the Federation. In exchange for asylum, she is going to provide the Federation with the scientific specifications for this new weapon."

A wave of relief swept over the tense crew in the conference room. Captain Price thought, like a lot of them, that the Galaxy was going into Romulan space.

"So once we have recovered this woman, what then Admiral?" Price asked.

"We head back to earth. Our scientists will study the data to determine the Federation's best course of action. I can't stress enough how important this assignment is gentlemen. Starfleet Command needs this information desperately. I have been ordered to make miss N'Prng's defection work at all costs. If things go as planned, this should be a relatively easy assignment. If things don't... well we will just have to cross that bridge when we come to it. Any questions?"

Lieutenant Sterner asked first. "Will you want me to make any special arrangements for our Romulan guest when she arrives Admiral?"

"Yes, Lieutenant...?"

"Lieutenant Sterner Sir. Chief Security Officer on the Galaxy."

"Of course. We need to handle this delicately. I would suggest an armed escort throughout her stay here on the Galaxy. Limit her access to the ship systems and sensitive areas as much as possible. But be kind. We need the information she has on this weapon."

Glancing over at Lieutenant T'Nevin, Admiral Blair asks, "Lieutenant T'Nevin isn't it?"

"Yes Admiral. Chief Science Officer."

"I read in your personnel records that you speak Romulan?"

"Yes Admiral. I am half Romulan."

"Excellent. With your knowledge of science and the Romulan heritage, I expect N'Prng will have much more in common with you than anyone else on the vessel. How are your diplomatic skills Lieutenant?"

"Fine Sir. I..." T'Nevin is cut off by Captain Price.

"Lieutenant T'Nevin would be honored to assist with the Romulan defector Admiral. Are there any other special arrangements that I should know about Sir?" Captain Price's tone conveyed a touch of assertiveness. Just a bit of command presence to remind the Admiral who's ship they are presently on.

"No Captain. You are free to manage your crew as you see fit. I am in command of this mission, but the ship is yours." After a brief pause and grin, the Admiral glanced at Lieutenant Blair, his grandson. "I would like to request that Lieutenant Blair be allowed to act as my aid while I am on board the Galaxy Captain. If it meets your approval?"

Price nodded. His initial thoughts were correct. Admiral Blair did chose the Galaxy because his grandson was stationed on her.

"Of course Admiral. The Lieutenant is at your disposal."

Troy blushed slightly. It was bad enough that his grandfather had requested him at this senior officers meeting, his first one ever. But now he was embarrassing him in front of his colleagues. Troy managed to maintain a tough upper lip. He'd have time to talk to his grandfather later, after the meeting.

Admiral Blair smiled at his grandson. He then returned his attention to the meeting at hand.

"We need to plot a course to Outpost station 53. Starfleet has authorized us to exceed the warp speed limitations for the duration of this assignment. So lets make best speed there."

"Aye Sir." Captain Price acknowledged. "Lieutenant Ti will lay in the course when we adjourn."

The Admiral's attention turned to the lovely Bajoran sitting near the end of the table. He nods at her slightly and smiles.

"Excellent. Let me remind you all, this is a classified assignment. It is not to be discussed with your fellow shipmates."

The Admiral watched as everyone in the room nodded, including Captain Price.

"Very well. You are all dismissed." The Admiral began to get up out of his chair, as he gathered up his notes and computer chips. Lieutenant Blair stood by his side waiting for him to finish, while the rest of the staff exited the conference room.

"When the Admiral is ready Lieutenant, you can show him to his quarters." Captain Price smiled at Troy as he said it.

"Yes sir." he responded blankly as he waited for his grandfather to finish gathering his things. Captain Price nodded then exited.

Everyone quickly assumed their posts on the Bridge.

"Lieutenant Ti. Lay in course for Outpost station 53."

"Course plotted and laid in Captain."

"Do it 'mate. Warp factor 8."

"Aye sir! Warp factor 8."

The engines of the USS Galaxy came to life and soon hurled the starship on it's way to Outpost station 53. Just two days journey at the present speed.

As Lt. T'Lein walked down the corridor, heading for his quarters to do some work on a new Ops duty schedule and some reading on routine Ops protocols, he passed by many familiar faces all of which he had no real relationship, except for the fact that they were fellow crewmates. The young Lt. made no extra effort to involve himself in human social activities such as relationships and he, at present, had no unusual desire to do as such.

*****Lt. T'Lein's Quarters*****

The doors to Lt. T'Lein's quarters, picking up bio readings that had previously been programed and configured into the door control panel for automatic entry upon such readings, automatically opened at his presence. As the Lt. passed over the threshold, the soft voice of the Galaxy computer informed him that he had one new message. The Lt. commanded the computer to route the message to his desktop monitor for visual display.

[Complying], acknowledged the female computer voice.

Turning his head, T'Lein saw the image of his mother, l'Nal, on the monitor.

MESSAGE:
Greetings T'Lein. All is well here on Vulcan. I am, at current, not having any difficulties in my work in the northern region. I am making great progress. I take it you are not encountering difficulties on the USS Galaxy NCC-70637? I understand that your position as chief Operations officer requires a great amount of your time. I am pleased that you have been promoted in such a short amount of time. Your father informed me to tell you he is pleased also. I received his communique from Starfleet Headquarters yesterday.

I do encourage you to perform your duties well and continue your studies of logic. I must end this message now.

When the message ended and the monitor display went back to its original black appearance, T'Lein walked over to the food replicator and ordered a glass of cold egg nog and made his way back over to his work area. There, he reactivated the monitor and began work on the new Ops duty schedule. While working, a distant part of his mind thought about previous years back on Vulcan when he and his mother would go on archeological excavations in differenct regions of the planet. The images somehow made him feel more energized.

"Computer, display names of current Ops personnel on the Galaxy."

[Complying], acknowledged the computer.

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

Normal wasn't something Hutchcraft was acquainted to. Since his first assignment, Hutchcraft's starfleet career, which really didn't total to much for a Junior Grade Lieutenant, had been filled with plenty of activity. His adventures had included running around, waiting for the enemy, guarding enemy soldiers, sabotage, playing music, carrying dead bodies around and being on the brink of insubordination.

However, Hutchcraft's life could not be like this forever. Which had led him to the position he was in. Relatively minor problems, such as breaking up petty brawls and writing reports, had been the only entertainment for the Lieutenant.

Gamma shift ended.

Hutchcraft almost felt like he was working in a 20th century office. He expected to enter his quarters, shouting "HONEY, I'M HOME!" before enjoying an unhealthy, fatty meal and a cold bath.

The Lieutenant had received word that Ensign Enquist was concious again. Andrew decided to take a visit into Sickbay.

Sickbay and the Lieutenant were two things that didn't go well. Usually because when Hutchcraft was there, something was wrong. This time, the Lieutenant's presence wasn't something the medical officers were worried about.

"Lieutenant, I heard you saved my life?" spoke the Ensign. Hutchcraft smiled. The Lieutenant's natural charm and sarcastic flare had suddenly returned to him.

"Yeah ... well ... y'know ... it was either that or get my own head kicked in by one of Sterner's little programmes ..." Hutchcraft grinned. The Ensign smiled back.

"Thank you sir" replied Enquist. "So where are we headed now?" The Ensign seemed keen to get back to work.

"We're heading to Outpost 53 as far as I know. Admiral Blair is aboard" Hutchcraft made his best attempt to look as interested as possible. Enquist could see right through him.

"Just your style, right Lieutenant?" Enquist smiled. The two officers were starting to get to know each other. This wasn't normal for Hutchcraft. Usually he wouldn't get along with someone until he had known them for a while. 'Maybe' Hutchcraft thought to himself 'Maybe I'm just getting old ...' He quickly replied to the Ensign.

"Now, hey, you don't know me. I might love stuff like this" Hutchcraft was in a happy mood, despite the motionless of their current mission.

Lieutenant Bellen had approached the two Security Officers. She didn't seem too pleased about Enquist being so active.

"Come on, Lieutenant, enough visiting, the Ensign needs his rest. He doesn't need Quall, Sterner OR you to go on about security" Bellen spoke cheerfully, but made sure to get her point across. Hutchcraft smirked while he thought of ways to reply ...

"Move it. Be gone" the Lieutenant enjoyed her work just a little too much.

"Sure thing, madam" Andrew saluted the medical officer mockingly, before wandering out of sickbay.

" One, two, three, four....." Coe began doing his daily workout with some simple push-ups. After a few minutes he began to sweat and tire and after completing his 150 push-ups, he slowly stood up and drank from his water bottle which sat on the seat next to him. After taking a rest for a minute, coe left the fairly empty room, smiling at an attractive Ensign as he briefly watched her on the step machine, and began his daily 10 kilometre run around the cargo bays, which were located just down the hallway from the gym, pondering the Galaxy's recent assignment to outpost 53.

**** 2 hours later, Gamma shift, Bridge ****

Coe sat in the command chair looking over the ships reports, science, engineering, tactical, and concealing all looked good. Then Coe came across medical and security. Multiple casualties had occurred during security training on the holodeck. A malfunction of the security protocols on the holodeck's computer system? Coe was alarmed by these reports!

"Coe to Quall." The officer on duty in security answered the hail after a short time.

" Yes Commander?"

" Lt, I have been looking over these casualties reports. Whats going on? Were the safeties turned off?" Coe asked the question, and waited for the answer.

Chris N
AKA: Lt. Johnathon Thomas Coe
Chief Tactical Officer USS Galaxy
NCC-70637
Indentification: Foxtrot delta 769

"Very Well. You are all dismissed." Good the meeting was over. She could get back to her post. She loved being at the helm and hated to be gone when she was supposed to be there. She relieved Ensign Kopitz, who stayed on after her shift.

"Lieutenant Ti, lay in a course for Outpost station 53."

"Course plotted and laid in, Sir."

"Do it 'mate. Warp factor 8."

"Yes Sir! Warp factor 8." They were on their way. It would take them two days granting that they maintained present speed. Ti kept checking and rechecking their course.

***After Shift***

Once Alpha shift ended, Ti headed for the lower decks of the ship. She had heard the ship's teacher had ferrets that needed homes. She wanted one. She had never been to the deck were the teacher lived. She finally found the quarters she was looking for. A woman that looked to be in her mid-twenties answered the door.

"Hi.. um.. I heard that you had ferrets. I was hoping to take one. Oh, I'm Ti Miran." She felt like a fool, but the teacher put her at ease.

"I'm Ambra Trinton. Sure, come in. I have two left, a little girl and a little boy." She led Ti in. She had the ferrets in a box. They were so cute. They were curled up together. Ambra picked one up and passed it to Ti. It wiggled in Ti's grasp. Then it nuzzled up to her.

"She liked you. Here I'll give you instructions on taking care of your new pet. I want to know how she does for you. One other thing, she will hide all shiny objects. Ferrets are superb little thieves." Ambra handed Ti a PADD.

"Thank You." Ti took her new friend back to her own quarters.

"I think I'll name you Bobbie." Bobbie just squeaked at her, wrapped herself around Ti's neck and went to sleep. Ti was really happy and content.

"Well sir, here's your quarters." Troy stated as he held his hand out pointing to the door.

"We're away from everyone else now Troy, you can call me granddad again." The Admiral replied as he entered his quarters.

"Okay" Troy said with a sigh of relief.

The two entered the quarters, the Admiral went to unpack his suitcase and Troy went to get both of them Vulcan tea. After helping his grandfather put his things away, both Troy and his grandfather sat down on one of the sofas. After a few moments of silence, Troy had to ask his grandfather an important question.

"Hey granddad, did you pick the Galaxy for this mission just because I'm stationed on it?"

"Well..." the Admiral paused, "...yes and no"

A look of confusion came over Troy's face.

"I did pick the Galaxy because your on it, but that's not the sole reason. I needed a ship with a dedicated crew, a ship that can handle anything thrown at it, and a ship that ranks among the best in StarFleet."

"Well, what about the Enterprise-E?" Troy's question still wasn't fully answered.

"It's true that the Enterprise would be the best choice, but the Romulans know very little about Sovereign class ships, and we at command would like to keep it that way. So I chose the Galaxy." Troy nodded his head, his question was answered.

"Well, thanks for clarifying that granddad."

"No problem Troy." The Admiral stood up,"Well, we got sometime before I need to make preparations for the defection, why don't we got to Ten Forward?"

"Sounds like a good idea to me, I'll introduce you to some of the crew while we're there."

Troy stood up and followed his grandfather out the door.

Lieutenant JG Troy Blair
Tactical Officer, USS Galaxy

Lt. Quall, who had recovered from his injury well, didn't seem to happy either. Both officers sat in the Security Office.

Quall's comm-badge calmly chirped at him.

[Coe to Quall] Quall quickly answered.

"Yes Commander?"

[Lt, I have been looking over these casualties reports. Whats going on? Were the safeties turned off?] Coe asked the question, and waited for the answer. Quall and Hutchcraft looked at each other. Hutchcraft gave an aggitated look towards the ceiling.

"Hang on, Commander, I'm sure Hutchcraft can tell you all about it" Quall grinned at Hutchcraft.

[Hutchcraft?]

"You don't want to know sir" Hutchcraft was beginning to grow tired of being Lieutenant. Being an Ensign involved cruising around Borg ships mindlessly shooting mutated humanoids. Being Lieutenant involved investigating loud noises in junior-officer's quarters.

[Excuse me, Lieutenant?] Coe did not seem to happy with Hutchcraft's tone.

"Okay, basically there has been a holodeck problem and several accidents have occured. I've already filled in several reports on this, and so have Lieutenant Quall and Sterner" Hutchcraft needed caffiene. Quall could obviously tell, as he walked towards the replicator.

[Thank you Hutchcraft. And if you want to keep your position, show more respect to your superior officer. Coe out]

Hutchcraft began mumbling. Not completely incoherent, the mumbling did seem to have some meaning. Quall appeared with two Bajoran Coffees. Hutchcraft had realised he was not one for foreign drinks. He didn't mind basic Bajoran drinks, however.

"Thanks, Ryan" he smiled as he drank the black liquid. As he started to relax, his comm-badge hailed.

[Lieutenant, a brawl between an engineer and a bartender has started in Ten Forward]

And with that, Hutchcraft found himself walking towards Ten Forward, alongside Ensign Sobra. At least they would have some fun for a little while.

Dead Clare,
aka Ensign Leslie, Special Borg Security Agent, Outpost 77
aka Lt.Jg Andrew Hutchcraft, Assist. Security, USS Galaxy
aka Va'nane Acetone, Civilian Engineer, Station Beta 2
aka Ensign Rick Verner, Security, USS Sovereign

After the meeting with the Admiral, Joerg returned to his office. He was thinking about the details the Admiral had given, and if there wasn't something else, that was yet unrevealed.

Upon his return to his office he noticed, that his report on the holodeck accidents was still to be written, so he started at once. Although the defect of holodeck 4 was not yet found, it should only be a matter of time for the Galaxy's engineers, so he thought.

After the report was complete, he was again thinking about their actual mission. The Admiral said, that the mission shouldn't discussed with the rest of the crew. Joerg on the other hand thought, that at least his two assistants should also be informed. But orders are orders, he thought after a while and continued with his daily work.

Some time before his shift ended, he had an idea, that could solve his problems about the classified mission. He recorded some instructions and advices, that the two assistant chiefs could access, if the situation was that bad and Joerg was away for some reason. He secured the file in the computer and sent a message to each Hutchcraft and Quall. It contained the information that the Galaxy was on their way to Outpost station 53 on a classified mission and that in case of an emergency a file with instructions is available. He included specifically, that under no circumstances the two should access the file in any other case than an emergency.

After that he headed for the holodeck to take his commanding class. He knew that a higher rank would lead to more responsibility, so he found that such classes really were necessary and wasn't complaining. Actually he liked the excitement and thrill of those lessons.

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

Ensign Thomas Enquist was feeling much better. And today, the doctor will let him up! Thomas could not wait to get back to work. He left the sickbay with a relief. Even though the nurses was nice, it’s not a place for a Viking. Thomas thanked them on the way out, and left for his quarters. He checked the duty roster, and noticed that it was not his shift, so he just walked in, thinking of sending a message to the boss. He tossed his phaser on the bed. He then turned to his terminal. He had three messages waiting.

"Computer: Replay messages in priority order."

[Affirmative. Playing messages.]

[Message one]

Intership message

To: Thomas Enquist
From: Joerg Sterner

Welcome back, Ensign. I heard that you got out of the sickbay today. Report to me before our shift begin, so I can fill you in about the current situation.

[Message two]

Subspace message, Station Beta 2

To: Thomas Enquist, security officer
From: Jack Straker, engineering officer

Tom, my friend. Thank you for your message. I have been thinking about your accident with the holodeck program. The only thing I can think off, is that someone, at the last Starbase you attended, downloaded some contaminated files with the mission orders. If you have any other reports of a computer glitch, that may be an accident. But if the holodeck program is the only program to get corrupt, then someone deliberately sabotaged it. This is the worst case scenario, that someone is trying to damage your personnel, before meeting you in person.

If you had been here at Station Beta 2, I would have been able to purge your system from computer viruses and unauthorized programs. By the way, I got a message from Jacob Stevens on the USS Crusader. He really lucked out. Our friend Svetlana ‘Bitsy’ Andropova, is the Chief Counselor onboard! CU L8R. Jack.

[Message three] Intership message

To: Thomas Enquist, Alpha shift
From: K’Bal Sobra, Gamma shift

Greetings. I’ve heard of your fight on the holodeck. Whenever you feel up to it, we can fight a real fight in the holodeck. I think it is safer than a holofight, at least you know what to expect. Feel free to call upon me, when you feel up to it.

Thomas had mixed feelings about his messages. He was delighted to be back in action, but not good enough to fight a real fight yet. The idea about the computer manipulations must be brought forward, but the line about ‘Bitsy’ was disturbing. Hope that the USS Crusader keeps a safe distance from him...

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

He arrived at his quarters and started to settle himself in. With only one of his bags unpacked he decided to skip the unpacking for now. There would be plenty of time to settle in. Locating the computer terminal he sent a message to his old friend Mr. Shtik.

"To LtJg Shtik, from LtJg Dassaut"

"Hey old buddy I finally made on board. The news has it that you are engaged. Well I guess that congratulations are in order! I would like to get together and catch up on old times as your scedule will allow. I here you have an excellent 10 forward. I have not checked in with my CMO yet but will be leaving shortly. Peace and long life"

"Jan"

After sending the message he changed into his fresh uniform to meet the new CMO.

At that moment, the computer com link activated, "Dr. Dassaut to sick bay emergency."

Jan taped his come badge and acknolaged the page. Now what could he be required to be a part of already.

On arrival to sick bay Brent Fisher the nurse on duty met him at the door. I don't know if you have been aware but the holodeck is all mucked up and the safty has malfuntioned. We have had countless security officers injured and now one of our science officers has been injured. It's Lt Morris, she's a Delphinian, she is going to need surgery.

Jan could feel the pain in the room, he quickly located the source in Lt. Morris. The Delphinian anatomy was going to make this more difficult. He looked at the nurse," what is your name?"

"Fisher, Brent Fisher, I'm the head nurse beta shift."

"I'm going to need you to scrub in with me."

Jan went to Ronnie, "Whats your name Lieutenant?"

Ronnie gave her name but it was not understandable to Jan." but you can call me Ronni" she said with a smile.

"Well Ronnie, you've been cut pretty bad, don't you worry, I'll have you fixed up in no time."

Jan activated the stasis field and gently Ronni fell asleep. "I'll need her partially submerged in water to protect her skin durring this and monitor her O2 levels to make sure this colapsed lung is working, if we have to, we will use her gills and bypass the lungs."

At that the Dr. set in to several hours of surgery, patching the lung and repairing the vascular damage from the holodeck blade. It was serious but the science officer would recover.

"Lt., there's been another holodeck accident." K'arta informed him.

"Was anyone badly injured?" Quall asked, concerned.

"One woman was stabbed. I took her to sickbay and I think she'll be all right."

"Which holodeck? I assume it wasn't 4 since it's closed."

"Holodeck 3. Sir, I think all the holodecks should be taken off-line until engineering can take a look at them." K'arta told him.

"I think that's a good idea, Ensign." Quall agreed with her.

"Thank you, sir. Is there anything I can do this shift?" K'arta had been getting bored with the uneventful shifts.

"Well, there was a cat loose, but Ensign Aaron probably has that situation under control." Quall smiled at her.

"I see."

Quall tapped the communication panel. "Security to Engineering."

[Engineering here.]

"We've had another accident involving the holodecks. Please take all of them offline and find out what the problem is."

[A team is on the way now. Engineering out.]

Quall looked up at her. "There isn't much for me to give you today..."

He thought for a second. "Now that i think of it, go to the holodecks and assist the engineering team. See if there is any possible form of sabotage or tampering."

"Right away, sir." K'arta turned and headed for the holodecks...

The Galaxy was well on her way towards the Romulan Neutral Zone and Outpost station 53. Admiral William Blair had adjourned the senior staff briefing several hours ago and Captain Price supposed he was busy catching up with his grandson, Lieutenant Troy Blair.

Taking advantage of the relatively quiet time during the journey, Captain Price retreated to his ready room to catch up on some of the intraship messages.

"Bajoran coffee with cream. Hot." The Captain commanded. A slight whirl and then the steaming mug of coffee appeared. Lee took the mug and carried it back to his desk. Tasting it carefully, he places it down on the table before activating his computer screen.

Several memos print out on his monitor. He scans through the titles, "mostly routine stuff" he thinks. Then he begins to notice the number of holodeck accidents that have been logged in the past few days. Concerned, he taps his comm badge.

"Doctor Rousseau, Captain Price here."

After a moment, Jacqueline replied, ["Go ahead Captain."]

"Doctor, I was reading through the ships logs and I noticed a number of holodeck accidents recently. Do you have any comment?"

Jacqueline took a deep breath to try and calm herself. She didn't want to sound too angry as she explained why so many security personnel had fallen victim to Lieutenant Sterner's security program.

["Actually Captain I was talking to Lieutenant Sterner about that very subject just a short time ago."]

"Lieutenant Sterner? In security?"

["Yes Captain. Virtually all of the holodeck accidents involved his security staff while running some kind of combat training program."]

"I see. So this program deactivates the holodeck safety protocols?"

["That was my thought too Captain, though Lieutenant Sterner assures me that it does not. He has suspended use of the program until the cause of the... malfunction, can be determined."] Jacqueline accented the word malfunction. The touch of sarcasm was noted by the Captain.

"Very well. I'll speak to Sterner about the program and his progress. Thank you Doctor, you've be most helpful."

["My pleasure Captain. Rousseau out."]

Captain Price made a mental note to speak to Sterner about the holodeck problem, and his program, at the next security meeting. Continuing to scan over his messages he came across another one that peaked his curiosity. Reading through it, he learned that Mr. Shtik and D'tarna Bellen had become engaged to be married. D'tarna was asking if Captain Price would perform the ceremony.

A smile rested on Captain Price's face. It would be the first marriage he'd perform since becoming Captain of a starship. He typed up a quick response.

To: Lieutenant D'tarna Bellen
From: Captain Lee Price
Subject: Marriage to Mr. Shtik

Hello D'tarna.

I would be honored to perform the ceremony to unite you and Mr. Shtik. Please keep me posted of your plans so that we can schedule a convenient time and location for the ceremony.

Congratulations.

Captain Robert Edward Lee Price

As he finished typing the message, he transmitted it to Lieutenant Bellen.

Captain Price sat back in his chair and took another sip of his coffee. As he swiveled near the observation port, he gazed out at the passing stars. At first he was happy at the thought of a wedding on board the ship. His revelry soon turned to more immediate concerns as he thought about their present mission. Recovering a Romulan defector from the Neutral zone. Captain Price could only hope the mission would go as smoothly as the Admiral had promised.

"Time will tell." Price said to himself. Gazing at his computer monitor he punches up a tactical display. Noting that the Galaxy should arrive at Outpost station 53 early tomorrow morning, he deactivates the computer screen then finishes his cup of coffee. Standing he walks to the door and enters the Bridge.

Commander Jamson is at his post in the Captain's chair during Beta shift. He looks at the Captain and nods.

"I'll be in my quarters if I'm needed Commander. You have the conn 'mate."

"Aye Sir. Have a good afternoon."

Captain Price smiled at his First officer before entering the turbolift. Glancing around the Bridge, he couldn't help but feel he was serving with the best crew in all of Starfleet. The doors soon closed and Captain Price retired to his personal quarters.

The preliminary reports were certainly not exaggerated; by a long shot. Most of the deck had been effected. First order of business was to shut down incoming power to the entire level and switch to portable back-up's. Ensign K'arta had been assigned to assist. She stood idly by, her hands folded behind her back. There really wasn't much to guard, security speaking. Never-the- less all Starfleet personal were required to poses a rudimentary level of engineering knowledge which Shane intended to utilize. The first order at hand would be to sever the power conduits as they came into the main power grid.

"Ensign, I'm going to need a high-voltage splicer. There is a locker around the corner, could you fetch one for me please? And then you can take a tricorder and try to locate any anomalies in the distribution grid. It will probably take you a spell, but we have to know where to start.

The Ensign nodded and headed off down the corridor."

It's been several hours since the meeting with Admiral Blaire. Jamson was a bit angry with the mission, saving a Romulan? he didn't hate the Romulans but in his Klingon side he couldn't help it and he felt a little hate for them.

Another question came accross his mind, why did the Admiral choose the Galaxy for that mission? there were a few ships that could have done the same job like the Galaxy...although the Galaxy was the best. Was it because Lt.Blaire?

Well orders were orders and Jamson had to follow orders, he was a Starfleet Officer.

Passing in one the corridors he noticed a beautiful human female and his heart started to jump. He looked at her, she looked familiar to him...her name was Morgan something...he couldn't remember the rest. She was the new Helsmen Officer aboard the Galaxy. Suddenly he felt horror..."Could it be? Am I becoming a Human more than a Klingon in my soul?" he turned his look a walked away.

****Jamson's quarters****

Reaching to his quarters he quickly took a shower of cold water. So many problems...but the biggest one was Ensign Morgan...he didn't like his heart to jump whenever he remembered her. He never had such feelings to any Human before. Only Klingons...

After taking a shower he hurried to his computer console and sent a message to Mr.Shivok :

To : Mr.Shivok
From : Commander Jamson
Subject : A meeting

Counselor,

I really have to meet you. As soon as you can.
Lately I unwanted feelings...I think it's love but I'm not sure...I feel that my Human side is killing my Klingon side and I really don't want it to happen. Can I discuss with you about it?

Commander Michael Jamson

Jamson sent the message and the computer replied "Message sent".

Looking at the time Jamson was suprised, he was late for the Beta shift. "I was never late before in my life! another Human effect!" he said as he dressed and head toward the Bridge.

****Bridge****

Jamson was 4 minutes late, but it seems no one really cared about it. He took the Captain's chair and looked at the view screen.

A few minutes later Captain Price entered the Bridge from his ready room. Jamson looks at the Captain and nods.

"I'll be in my quarters if i'm needed Commander. You have the conn 'mate." Price said to Jamson.

"Aye Sir. Have a good afternoon." Jamson replied to Price.

Price smiled and entered the turbolift.

"I really have to speak with Shivok..." Jamson thought to himself.

Commander Michael Jamson
FO/XO
USS Galaxy

TO ENSIGN MORGAN KALRIESEN
FROM LT(JG) TI MIRAN

SUBJECT: Welcome

Welcome to the Galaxy. You will be on duty during Beta shift. Ensign Kopitz will relieve you for Gamma shift. Report to me on the bridge for your first shift when you settle in.

Once Again Welcome

Ti Miran, Lieutenant jg,
Chief Helmsman, USS Galaxy

She sent the message. She needed to get ready for her own shift. She decided to grab breakfast in ten-forward.

Ten-Forward was pretty empty and quiet. She ordered Earth ham and a mixed fruit drink. She sat near the window and gazed at the passing stars. They would be arriving at Outpost 53 during this upcoming shift. She wondered why anyone would turn on their race. Many Bajorans did during the occupation; traitors the whole lot of them.

When she was done, Ti headed for the bridge. "What would today bring?" she thought to herself.

To: Lon Tarnel, USS Galaxy.
From: Arica selic, Star base 674.

I just finished them. There the updated schematics for the ALP.
BTW: How is your New assignment?

Tell me how it worked

Arica

End Message.

Finely Tarnel thought, she had finished it. The last part for there project. The ALP was meant to act autonomously with out help from any Ship. Turning to his work table, he began to install it.

Ensign Lon Tarnel
Engineer -- USS Galaxy NCC-70637
E-Mail: Anthonylp@geocities.com

'There is no time for that, now. I have enhanced and accelerated your telepathy, Chiron.'

Chiron frowned 'Then you have caused all this pain...'

'I am merely helping you to discover what has been imprisoned within your mind, Chiron. Now you must use it to help me.'

'How? WHO ARE YOU??'

'You must be patient and trust me.'

Chiron didn't like it, but suddenly his mind was... frozen...

'Yes... I will help...'

'I will make you great, Chiron...'

Chiron couldn't move, paralyzed by the mind-numbing power that this voice seemed to command...

'I want you to see to it that this mission will fail.'

He wanted to object, fight for his crew, but the slippery voice still had its grip on his thoughts, and in his DreamScape body, his head nodded approval, guided by the soft, yet deadly proddings of his captor.

Eric Hanson, "The Schizoid Man"
Lt. JG Chiron, Engineer, USS Galaxy [E-Mail]
Lt. JG Varin Reix, Science, Station Beta 2 [E-Mail]
Lt. JG Tal Breno, Science, USS Horizon [E-Mail, IRC]
Nurse Tarin K'Thera, USS Horizon [E-Mail, IRC]

"Delphinian, hmm...that must be her." K'arta mumbled to herself. Gamma shift officers were filing into the security office as she left and headed for sickbay to visit Lt. Morris. When K'arta arrived at sickbay, she was greeted by a doctor she didn't recognize. It was Dr. Janar Dassaut, the surgeon who had worked on Ronni.

"Can I help you, Ensign?" He asked, noticing the single pip on her collar.

"I was hoping to see Lt. Morris. I'm K'arta." She smiled, introducing herself.

"I'm Dr. Dassaut, but you can call me Jan. I'll go check if she's awake. I think she's been wanting to meet you." The doctor smiled back at K'arta. He walked away, leaving her standing a little anxious near the entrance of sickbay. He returned shortly.

"Lt. Morris is awake. Right this way, K'arta." Jan led her to Ronni's bed.

Ronni looked up when she saw Dr. Dassaut approaching again with K'arta.

"Hello, Lt. Morris-" K'arta began.

"Please call me Ronni, K'tara." Ronni interrupted her.

"Actually, my name is K'arta, but I've been called worse." K'arta smiled as she spoke.

"Oh, I'm sorry." Ronni apologized sheepishly.

"It's OK. So, I guess you're feeling better?" K'arta asked.

"Much, hopefully I'll be able to get out of here pretty soon." Ronni looked as if she was getting bored.

"That's great. It's a little different to see someone besides a security officer hurt. I think they're starting to work on the holodecks now." K'arta informed her.

"I want to thank you for what you did. If you hadn't found me, I could have died."

"You're welcome, but it is my job to make sure no one is killed on this ship."

K'arta was embarrassed by Ronni's gratitude. "I'd better go so you can get some rest."

"Yes, I guess so." Ronni rolled her eyes to show how bored she was.

"Good night, sleep well. I'll see you later." K'arta nodded to Jan as she left sickbay.

When K'arta left, Ronni accidentally rolled onto her sore side and quickly rolled back. The nurse walked in to check where they had done the operation. As he turned her on her side she said, "So, can I get out of here today?"

He smiled and said "Yes. I just need to remove the BioClasp and check the surgical site."

"You can just say my ribs, it's ok!" she laughed.

A little while later Ronni was pulling on her uniform and heading for the door. As she entered the turbolift, Lt. Jg. Casey was there. "Well," he said, "back among the living?"

"I think so. Do you have time to take someone to lunch, I'm starving!" she said.

"For you Ronni, anything..." he said with his bad boy smile.

Deiran hadn’t had time to do nothing else but work. He had been assigned to coordinate the power distribution during the update of the power conduits and it had proven to be an exhausting task. He, Capizzi and Kane worked on the project for 12 straight hours.

But, it was done, the power conduits were installed and working within normal parameters and it was now time for Deiran to relax. As always, Deiran headed for Ten forward.

"Hey, Liam, how are ya? Give me a Bajoran tea, okay?" Deiran asked as he leaned up against the bar.

"I’m fine Deiran, one Bajoran tea coming up," Liam replied, smiling as he always did.

Deiran sipped his tea and surveyed the room. Admiral Blair and Troy were sitting next to the window looking out into the expanse of space, talking and looking like they were enjoying each other’s company.

Casey picked up his cup of tea and walked to their table.

"Hello, I’m sorry to interrupt, I just wanted to introduce myself," Deiran put out his hand in the Admiral’s direction. Admiral Blair smiled and shook Casey’s hand,"Lt.(JG) Deiran Casey, Assistant Chief of Ops, sir."

"You must be Admiral Casey’s boy?" the Admiral replied.

"Yes, sir. My mother is Vice Admiral Casey."

"Yes, I know your parents quite well Lieutenant, I work closely with them both. Sit down, Lieutenant." The Admiral gestured for Deiran to have a seat.

"I don’t want to intrude, sir. You don’t get to see your grandson that often," Casey truly didn’t want to intrude, he knew how much Troy loved his grandfather.

"Nonsense, your father and I are becoming friends, it’s good to get to know his family. Besides, Troy’s been telling me that you and him have been becoming friends."

Casey was reluctant to sit, but thought it best to oblige the Admiral. "Yes, sir, Troy and I have a lot in common."

Troy smiled at how much of an understatement that was.

"Your father told me I’d meet you. He said that you always made it a point of introducing yourself to superiors and making yourself seen and known. I guess that’s one of the reasons why you were an Ensign for just 2 months? Hey Lt. Casey?" the Admiral smiled at Casey, letting him know that he saw right through him.

"Well, sir, it’s no secret that I don’t plan to be a Lieutenant all my life, but I try to do my duty and get seen and noticed, this is true Admiral."

Admiral Blair was surprised at Casey’s return. Most officers wouldn’t be that honest and up front with an Admiral. The Admiral was beginning to like Deiran.

"You’re definitely a Casey," The Admiral replied and laughed.

"Thank you sir!" Casey respected Admiral Blair, the man reminded him of his own grandfather, who had been retired for about ten years and was now in the government of the Federation.

Casey finished his tea, set the cup on the table and looked Admiral Blair in the eye,"Sir, I would appreciate it if you’d keep me in mind during this mission. If there’s anything I can help you or Troy with, please let me know, I’d be happy to assist you in any way." Casey paused and changed the course of the conversation,"I’ve had a long shift and need some sleep. If you’ll both excuse me I’ll be getting to my quarters. Admiral it’s been a pleasure, I hope we’ll get a chance to talk again sir. Troy, I’ll see you on Beta shift tomorrow."

Casey stood up, his cup in hand, pushed the chair back under the table and walked to the bar. Left the cup on the bar and went to his quarters, he was exhausted.

*** Main Engineering ***

Lieutenant JG Kane had decided to pull an extra shift today, as there was an Admiral on board the ship. He didn't want anything to go wrong.

After finishing work on the power conduits, Kane got a good night's sleep, then pulled two shifts the next morning, Though most of the time was spent checking display panels. Everything nominal. Though slightly boring working two shifts in a row, he felt it was the right thing to do.

At the end of his second shift, Kane left to get some much neededsleep.

*** Personal Quarters ***

Just before Kane got into bed, he decided to write a message to the one person who had given him something major to do the day before.

"Computer? Begin message to Lt. JG Casey"

[Acknowledged.]

"Hi Deiran.. Thanks for the work yesterday... Checking displays gets a bit monotonus sometimes. Thanks."

"Computer? End Message and send."

[Message saved and sent.]

Kane curled up in bed, then turned of the lights and slept.
Lt. JG Kane, Assistant Chief of Engineering, USS Galaxy
Captain Bondar, CO, USS Sovereign.

Coe sat in the command chair as the so far, relatively uninteresting shift, passed slowly by. Coe was reviewing the medical reports for the previous week when an unexpected visitor arrived on the bridge and Coe, with full formalities stood from his chair and spoke loudly as the man stepped from the turbolift.

" Admiral on the bridge." The entire bridge crew for the Gamma shift stood from their posts, many of them straitening their uniforms as they did so. Coe approached the admiral as he waited patiently outside the turbolift, hands behind back.

" Admiral, this is an unexpected pleasure! If we had know of your intended visit, the Captain would have been here himself." The admiral smiled a warm, gentle smile and Coe relaxed, slightly.

" No, Commander, I wanted to see how the Galaxy was at her quietest. Obviously in safe hands." Coe did not smile but kept a blank face before slowly letting a snicker begin to crawl across his mouth.

" Yes Sir, may I give you a tour of the bridge?" Coe extending his arm in a gesture.

" I would like that Commander." The admiral fell into pace with Coe as he began to head toward science station one where Ensign M'obius stood silently at attention, Coe could feel the nervousness in him.

" Admiral this is science station one where many of the ships scientific sensor reading's readings are examined, recently, the science team where busy studying a nebula in sector 080." The admiral nodded his head and paid close attention as Coe explained the specific's of the federation's pride and joy, the Galaxy. He continued walking, his hand expressions amplifying what he said.

"....... the Galaxy is equipt with type XI rapid pulse phasers, situated on both the primary and secondary hull.." Coe was interrupted by Ensign Cole who stood at tactical and Coe looked up to see the young ensign's apologising face.

" Im sorry to interrupt Commander, Admiral, But an urgent message has come through via sub-space, asking for the admiral to contact starfleet headquarters at once." Coe looked thoughtful.

" Very well ensign." He turned to face Admiral Blair and whispered loud enough for only the admiral to hear, leaning forward as he did it. " Admiral, you could contact starfleet from the captains ready room."

" Very well Commader, I want you there to, show me this room."

" Yes Sir." He looked around the bridge, looking for a suitable replacement to take the con whilst Coe was gone.

"Ensign..... M'obius, take the con, I will be back in a few minutes."

" Yes Sir." And with that, Coe led the way into the Captains ready room. Situated just next to the bridge.

**** Captains ready room ****

The doors slid open and Coe stepped into the silent room, followed by the admiral. he pulled out the seat and offered it to the admiral, taking it, the admiral activated the computer terminal on the captains desk. Coe leaned on the back of the chair, observing the admiral.

" Commander, activate the link would you?" The admiral rubbed his forehead as he said it, obviously he was tired.

" Of course Admiral." He turned the laptop to face him and spoke loudly. " Computer, initiate a direct sub-space communications link to starfleet headquarters."

"Authorisation?" The computer asked in it's simple toned voice.

" Lt. Commader Coe, Identification: Foxtrot delta 769." Coe waited for the compliant beep from the computer.

" Establishing." Coe turned the laptop to face the admiral once again and stood at attention behind the admirals chair. After a few seconds the starfleet emblem appeared on the screen and both Coe, and Admiral Blair straightened themselves. Soon the emblem was replaced by the face of rear-admiral Banks the head of starfleet intelligence. Admiral Banks cut right to the chase.

" Admiral, the following information is classified, available to approved personnel only, has this Commander been cleared? "

" Yes sir." Hearing Admiral Blair say that reminded Coe that even most admirals, had to answer to someone. He snickered at the thought.

" Good. Listening posts along our side of the romulan neutral zone have detected unusual amounts of activity by the romulan military. Although this could be just a simple military Excercise, it could also be that they have somehow found out about your mission. either way, it will make your pickup of the subject more complicated, considering the romulans increased attention to that sector. However, your mission objectives remain the same. I am sending the sensor readings picked up from the listening posts for your boys to analyise. Remember this information is classified, release this to approved personnel only. Good Luck. This transmission ends now." The admirals face was replaced by the emblem once again, and Coe stood silent for a minute contemplating the information he had just digested. Soon, the admiral stood from the chair and the two men made their way back onto the bridge, neither speaking as the suspicious stares of the bridge crew focused on them.

" Ensign, ETA on our arrival at outpost 53?" The admiral asked.

" 15 hours sir." The Ensign answered after briefly checking his instruments.

" Very well. Commander, I am going to get some rest before arriving, Im going to need all the energy I can get."

" Very well sir, good night." The admiral nodded his head before stepping into the turbolift. Coe began to make his way to the command chair to resume his watch of the shift but was blocked halfway by Ensign M'obius.

" Sir, could you please tell us a little about our mission?" Coe smiled, anticipating the question, all eyes and ears of the bridge focused on Coe as the bridge fell silent. Coe turned slowly around, still smiling, so as to face the whole bridge crew.

" You will all find out soon enough...."

Chris N
AKA: Lt. Johnathon Thomas Coe
Chief Tactical Officer USS Galaxy
NCC-70637
Indentification: Foxtrot delta 769

The soothing voice of the ships computer awoke Captain Price.

["It is 0600. Time to wake up Captain Price."]

Lee laid in his bed and listened to the message repeat several times before sitting up and stretching.

"Computer. End alarm."

The computer complied with a chirp, as Captain Price walked across his quarters to the bathroom area. As he prepared to shower for today's duties his thoughts were on the current mission.

"We arrive at Outpost station 53 today." He thought.

Several minutes later, after showering, Lee stares at himself in the mirror as he finishes shaving. Splashing some steaming water onto his face, he pauses, the uneasy feeling of butterflies in the pit of his stomach. "I hope all goes as the Admiral has planned." He thinks.

While dressing in his duty uniform, Lee is hailed.

["Good morning Captain."] Lieutenant Commander Coe's voice is cheerful.

"Good morning 'mate. To what do I owe this warm greeting?"

["I thought you'd like to know, we are approaching Outpost station 53."]

The Captain raises an eyebrow slightly. At warp 8, they shouldn't have reached the station until midmorning.

"All ready? What is our present speed Commander?"

["Warp 8.7 Captain. Admiral Blair ordered us to increase speed late last night while you were sleeping."]

A disturbed look crosses the Captain's face. Pausing, he makes a mental note to speak to Admiral Blair about the Galaxy and his command. Coe notices the pause.

["Is everything all right Captain? Do you want me to reduce our speed?"]

"Negative Commander. It's all right 'mate. I'm just not used to being left in the dark on important missions is all. I'll be up shortly. Price out."

The comm channel closed as Captain Price finished getting dressed.

*********

As Captain Price exited the turbolift and walked onto the Bridge the Gamma shift crew were all still in place. Several smiles and nods were thrown the Captain's way. Much better than a few months ago when everyone stiffened and called out "Captain on the Bridge!" Lee thought with a grin.

Having not had his morning coffee, Captain Price headed straight to his ready room. He wanted to get a snack for breakfast and a cup of coffee under his belt before Admiral Blair arrived on the Bridge.

As Lee began to cross the threshold to the ready room, he noticed Lieutenant Commander Coe raising his hand and finger, trying to stop him. He was too late. The doors swished open and Admiral Blair was already sitting at the Captain's desk.

"Admiral! I hadn't expected you to be up this early sir." a surprised Captain Price manages to say.

"You know what they say Lee... the early bird catches the worm. Heh, heh, heh. Actually, I had trouble sleeping last night. Been up for hours."

Captain Price stepped all the way into his ready room, allowing the automated doors to slide shut.

"You should have contacted Doctor Rousseau. I'm sure she could have given you something Admiral."

Admiral Blair placed down his cup of coffee while turning his head slightly, cringing at the thought. "No Doctors Captain. They're always tell me to take it easy. Take time off. Relax. Heck, if I did that all these years, I'd never had made Admiral!"

Lee smiles at the Admiral's comments. Glancing around his office he notes how uncomfortable he is not being seated at his own desk. Feeling some what out of place, the Captain walks over to the replicator.

"Bajoran coffee, Hot with cream."

While Captain Price's mug appears in the replicator Admiral Blair offers to share his crumpets.

"Try these Lee. Crumpets from Risa. They are simply marvelous for breakfast."

With out saying anything, Captain Price picks up one of the pasteries and takes a taste. His expression acknowledging the Admiral's comments as he sits down in one of the chairs normally reserved for his own staff members.

"I told you! Quite a delicacy. I bring them where ever I go."

"Yes. Quite good Admiral." Price replies before taking a sip of his coffee to wash is down. The Captain's expression then grew more serious.

"So Admiral, now that we are at Outpost 53, what are your orders?"

Admiral Blair glanced at Captain Price for a moment. He could sense that the Australian officer was upset at being left in the dark about parts of this mission, but since he didn't say anything, Blair wasn't going to either.

"Your orders are to stand by Captain. The Galaxy is to remain right here until the Romulans contact us sometime today."

"And then?" Captain Price asks as he peers over the edge of his coffee mug while taking another sip.

"And then we will see what happens Captain. If everything goes as planned, a Romulan shuttle will cross the neutral zone with the Rihannsu woman N'Prng. She'll provide us with the information on the plasma cannon in exchange for asylum. Then it's back to Earth for the Galaxy."

"What if the Romulans don't want to let this woman go? What then Admiral?"

Admiral Blair's expression grew annoyed. "That is why I am here Captain. I have been ordered to make this defection work at all costs. If it comes to it, I will make the decision on how the Galaxy is to proceed. Is that understood Captain?"

"Aye Sir." Price manages. He can only hope that all goes well, for 'at all costs' could be a very high price in deed when talking about his ship and crew.

Admiral Blair gives the Captain an evaluator glance before continuing. "Good. Now Captain, I am going to be beaming over to the Outpost station to meet with Commander Harrison."

"I'll be happy to accompany you Admiral." Captain Price adds. The Admiral quickly objects.

"No Captain, I want you to remain on board the Galaxy."

Again Captain Price gives the Admiral a glance, but decides to just nod in acknowledgment. He then responds, "At least take Commander Jamson and Lieutenant Mitchell. I believe Mitchell and Harrison served together on the USS Hood."

"Of course Captain. Those gentlemen are welcome to come. I just need you here right now." After a pause, Admiral Blair added, "I'd like Troy to come too, if that's all right Captain."

Price nodded. If the Admiral wanted Lieutenant Blair to go with him, he wasn't going to object. He is an Admiral after all.

"No problem Admiral. I'll let Lieutenant Coe know so he can have someone cover his shift at Tactical. If you'll excuse me?"

The Admiral nodded as Captain Price exited the ready room to inform Commander Coe of the Admiral's plans.

"Have Commander Jamson, Lieutenant Mitchell and Lieutenant Blair report to the Admiral in Transporter room one at 0800. They are beaming over to Outpost 53 for a tour and to visit with Commander Harrison. Their shifts will need to be covered while they are on the away team."

Lieutenant Commander Coe nodded as the Captain finished. "Understood Captain, I'll see it is taken care of."

"Great 'mate. I'll watch the Captain's chair while your gone." The Captain said with a wink as he sat down. Coe smiled at the comment before leaving to carry out the Captain's orders.

Taking another sip of his coffee, Captain Price looked out the main view screen at Outpost station 53 and the Neutral zone beyond, just hoping everything would go smoothly as planned.

"What gives us the honour of having such a highly ranked Starfleet offical in our lowly establishment" Liam said with a wry smile.

" Just making a tour of the ship to see everything is in order something I like to do every now and then."

"Well why your here I'd like to give you this." He handed the Captain a small chip. "On that is the entire AFL (Australian Football league) Grand Final, which I believe your team,the Sydney Swans, comes up against my team, The all conquering Melbourne Demons."

"Well I'll get around to watching this some time."

"maybe we introduce a few other members of the crew to the game."

"Yeah maybe, well I must be off."

"See Ya Captain."

"See ya 'mate."

The time was now 07:50, and the Lt. was headed for the bridge when he decided to send out a message to the two new ensigns on board. He walked over to his desk and commanded the computer to begin recording:

TO: ENSIGNS TRINKER AND CRAY

FROM: LT. STOVOK T'LEIN

MESSAGE:

Ensigns, I am the chief operations manager and your commanding officer. It would be logical for you both to meet with the assistant operations officer, Lt.jg Casey, to obtain any information you may have concerning operations protocols and duties as they are executed upon this vessel. You both, Lt.jg Casey, and myself will get together in a short period of time for a regularly scheduled meeting that may be helpful in assertaining our current mission and responsibilities. In the meantime, I am sending out an updated shift schedule for your convenience.

Lt. T'Lein
Chief Ops Officer

[End Message]

TO: ALL OPS OFFICERS
FROM: LT. STOVOK T'LEIN

SUB: SHIFT SCHEDULE

LT.JG DEIRAN CASEY: BETA SHIFT (15:30-00:00)

ENSIGN BOAZ TRINKER: GAMMA SHIFT (23:30-08:00)*

ENSIGN DEIMOS CRAY: GAMMA SHIT (23:30-08:00)*

*ENSIGNS, YOU WILL ALTERNATE ON A WEEKLY BASIS WHEREIN ONE OF YOU WILL COVER GAMMA SHIFT FOR THE WEEK WHILE THE OTHER ASSUMES THE POSITION OF RELIEF OFFICER.

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

When his computer came up he noticed a message. When he commanded the computer to play it he saw a familiar face...Janar.

"I have placed a transfer order to join the USS Galaxy. As I have just finished my trauma surgery fellowship on the USS Charleston, I thought I would join you. I have contacted the Captain and have received favorable notice. Hope to be seeing you soon. Janar out"

Janar Dessaut was an old friend of Shtik and D'tarna's from way back to their days at the vulcan science academy. He seemed like the obvious choice as a best man.

He was interupted from his musings, however, when the chime to his door rang.

"Enter." he called. When the door opened, D'tarna stood there for a moment, hesitently, before entering. "D'tarna, I was about to contact you reguarding my choice..." but he was interupted as she held up her hands.

"Sie, the wedding is off." she stated standing away from him. Shtik was stunned.

"That doesn't seem...logical." Shtik stated. D'tarna circled the room nervously, avoiding coming too close to Shtik.

"Do you remember Dr. Lasko from the academy? I received a message from him. He has made a breakthrough on the biofiltration process that I helped him work on during my internship. Now he wants me to return there to help him complete the work for final testing and production. He says that I'm the only one qualified to do the work because I already know it so well. I was flattered, I didn't know how to react." Her voice became soft as she barely whispered. "I accepted."

"I...see." Shtik stammered. They both stood through an awkward silence. So much suddenly changed. So much that was still there. Neither knew how to face this.

"It was an impulse decision, I can still turn it down!" D'tarna said.

Shtik turned and looked at her. Although they stood apart, afraid of the others touch, he reached out with his mind and held her conciousness close. He took a moment to examine her thoughts, her feelings, her love for him.

"As a Vulcan I have very little skill at being noble. And it would be illogical to assume that the problems of two little people would amount to a hill of beans in this crazy mixed up galaxy. But you're a part of Lasko's work, the thing that keeps him going. If that shuttle leaves the bay and you're not on it, you'll regret it. Maybe not today, maybe not tomorrow, but soon and for the rest of your life." A tear rolled down D'tarnas cheek as she forced a smile. She wanted to say that she still loved him, that she'd call every day, that she'd hurry back as soon as she could, but she couldn't. But in their minds they shared all of it. Finally she rushed over and threw her arms around Shtik.

"Besides," he said, voice lowering slightly, trying to joke away the tension, "I hear the holodecks aren't very safe for a wedding right now anyway." Unable to speak, she just kissed him then turned and went out the door quickly. Shtik stood still and quiet for a long moment. He realized his heart was pounding and his hand was shaking.

"Computer, call up terran music, circa 1930's, namely 'As Time Goes By' and play." Shtik said.

"Working." The computer stated as the soft piano ballad began to fill the quarters. Shtik sat and looked back at the photo of his friend Janar still frozen on the screen of his terminal.

"Louie, 'looks like this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship." Shtik said in his best Bogart impersonation.