Mitchell and Specialist Langman were working on a chemical analysis of organic material from the nebula when the call came in.

[Lt Mitchell, report to transporter room 3 at 08:00 hours. You are to accompany Admiral Blair to Outpost 53 to meet with Commander Harrison.]

+tap+ "Aye, sir" Mitchell was surprised by this turn of events. After the runin he had had with Commander Jamson, he thought he would be doomed to lab work for the rest of his tour on the Galaxy, or at least until he was transferred. This was his redeeming chance! Getting up and excusing himself, he left the lab and headed for his quarters to change.

"Commander Harrison? I haven't seen him in awhile. He rose through the ranks quite fast. I guess being a good tactical officer has its merits." Mitchell shrugged and entered his quarters.

***1 hour later***

James Mitchell left his quarters wearing his best dress uniform. He had pressed it for almost an hour. He wanted to impress the Admiral and Harrison. James wasn't sure what he was being called on for, but he'd be damned if he didn't do the best job an officer could. Thinking back to his days on the Hood, he wondered if Commander Harrison would recognize him. They weren't good friends on the Hood, but they had known each other in passing.

Coming to the transporter room, he arrived early. Walking in he saw Commander Jamson standing next to the transporter console, discussing something with the Transporter officer that he couldn't quite hear. Standing behind him was the new officer, that rumor had being he was the Admiral's son. Walking up to him, he introduced himself.

"Excuse me, I'm Lt. Mitchell, and your name is....?"

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

Ensign Helms looked up from the PROG PADD to see that there were 15 minutes left before Gamma shift started and he would be required on the bridge.

Time to get crackin’, he mumbled to himself as he set down the PADD, Can’t have Miran thinking I’m a schmuck.

Computer, end program. and raise lights. With that the desk he’s been working at became once-again a normal, starfleet issue workspace in a normal starfleet, well organized room rather than the field desk at the 1990’2 era TOP-GUN naval installation.

Mabye installing the holo-nodules wasn’t such a good idea he thought to himself as he looked at his power consumption ratios, he’d have to answer for those to someone.

5 minutes later he was ready to go, spit-shine polished and shaven, thinking, wow! have I already been here for two weeks? It seemed only yesterday that he was flying circles around wet-behind-the-ears, hot-shot wannabe pilots out of the academy and now he was on the Galaxy as just another Ensign, albeit a damn good one if he did say so himself.

You’d better proove yourself and the family right, show them you deserve your rank he said to his reflection. You don’t want to be an ensign forever, again!

With that he exited his quarters.

In the turbolift he straightened his uniform, tugging, and squirming until it looked right then said Main Bridge.

Here we go again, I don’t know half the people on the bridge crew, but I do sure as heck know how to pilot a starship. he thought Better just stick to the process until I know how it goes around here.

[Main Bridge] the computer said in its’ distinctly feminine voice.

Thank’s mam. he mumbled. Here we go.

"Computer, time to start of gamma shift?"

[Five Minutes]

The turbolift door opened and he strolled out, ready to perform his duty, noticing how efficiently quiet the bridge was, he hadn’t really had the time to meet the captain, and once again he probably wouldn’t because of shift differences, but he hoped to get to know everyone, mabye even become friends with them.

He stood quietly, waiting for the shift change, and wondered what would happen next.

Liam Sketcher had become used to Hutchcraft's little querks, and as such was always prepared for another sarcastic comments and odd orders. However his newest 'creation' made even Liam wonder.

".... but anyways, you mix the Herbal Tea with the Coffee, add that green stuff of yours, plus that strange brown stuff, what was it called?" Hutchcraft was sitting at the bar with a variety of drinks, plus one empty glass. Liam was still dreading what Hutchcraft was gonna try.

"It's called Baileys, Andrew" Liam replied. He could clearly tell that Hutchcraft didn't have a clue what he was doing.

"Yeah, anyways, the Baileys, Orange Juice, and this Klingon stuff all in this one glass. And I assure you it's the most tasty drink you've ever tried" Hutchcraft's usual high-induced ramble had been tripled.

"Okay, Lieutenant" Sketcher humoured "Let's see it then"

Liam did not actually want to see the deadly concoction, but thought it would be fun to see Hutchcraft go through his usual bizarre routines. In Hutchcraft's records it had stated that Hutchcraft was .... different. Now Sketcher had a pretty good idea why.

"Okay Liam, what do you think?" the Lieutenant showed the Bartender a strange looking brown mixture, slightly creamy in texture and still fuming from the mix. A layer of foam was at the top.

"I think it looks wonderful, Andrew. Why don't you taste it?" Sketcher was trying to keep a straight face. Since the event at the Christmas party, Hutchcraft had ordered the worst drinks possible from his menu, asked for non-existant drinks, and attempted to convince Liam that certain drinks were more than just drinks. Sketcher really didn't think Hutchcraft could do this one.

"Sure thing, Liam" Hutchcraft put his lips towards the sickly looking substance. A disgusting blend of incompatible flavours filled his tastebuds. However, Hutchcraft could not stop now. He continued to consume the foul drink.

"How's it taste, Lieutenant?" Liam asked. He could no longer keep the straight face. He was smiling hard.

"It's very good, my friend" Despite Hutchcraft's comment, he really did not feel well. "Excuse me, Liam, I'm not feeling ..."

Before Hutchcraft could finish his sentence, he collapsed on the bar. Sketcher looked worried. No one had done that before. He then realised that no one had mixed so many odd drinks together. He quickly told one of his bartenders to pick up the Lieutenant and take him to Sickbay.

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

Jamson was sleeping, dreaming...when his comm badge beeped and the voice of Lt.Commander Coe came through "Commander, the Captain wants you to report to Admiral Blaire in Transporter room one at 0800 hours. You will beam to Outpost 53 for a tour and to visit with Commander Harrison."

Jamson was barely awake "Ohh...what time is it Coe?"

"0730 hours Sir" Coe said.

"And who...who are the other away team members?" Jamson tried to get up.

"Admiral Blaire, Lt.Blaire and Lt.Mitchell." Coe reported.

"Very well, I'll be there...thank you Coe...Jamson out." Jamson thanked Coe for the awake call.

In the shower Jamson had to ask himself a few questions...what Lt.Mitchell has to do in outpost 53? how is he related to the visit with Commander Harrison? and while in that subject, why did the Captain didn't go? very strange...that Admiral...since he got here...Jamson didn't like him.

After the shower Jamson dressed up, took his lucky knife and headed toward the doors when he suddenly remembered "I've got to check my messages..." so he quickly hurried to the Computer console and said "Computer display Messages" but the computer replied with "There are no current messages".

"No current messages...?" Jamson was really disappointed, he really expected a message from Mr.Shivok, the ship's Counselor.

"Well...never mind!" Jamson felt anger and exited his quarters heading to Transporter room one.

On his way Jamson had a lot to think about the current events and thoughts he had. He was really bothered about the new Ops Officer Morgan. He couldn't stop thinking about her, he tried really hard...but nothing. Passing through one of the corridors on his way to Transporter room one, he saw her again...his heart jumped and he stared at her. She returned a look and he snapped himself out of it as soon as he could and continued walking lke nothing happened. "That was close..." he thought to himself "If she was a Klingon, she would kick me for looking at her like that...a hint for the mating ritual." Jamson smiled and bumped into an Officer.

"Excuse me...I'm sorry..." Jamson said and suprised to see Lt.Blair.

"It's ok Commander...are you on your way to Transport room one?" Blair asked the Commander.

"Yes I am" Jamson answered.

"Good, so am I. Let's go." Blair said and continued marching.

"Ok..." Jamson said and joined Blair thinking of him as the Admiral's grandson.

****Transporter Room1****

A few minutes after Blair and Jamson arrived Lt.Mitchell entered the room and spoke to Lt.Blair. Afterwards he approached to Jamson.

"Hi Commander, listen "I'm really nervous about this mission, I really don't know anything about it...there are rumors about the Outpost and the Neutral Zone but I really don't know. Can you tell me anything about the mission?" Mitchell asked Jamson.

Jamson wasn't really listening to Mitchell as he tapped a few buttons on the transporter console "Mitchell...I have a question.." Jamson asked Mitchell.

"Go ahead, ask." Mitchell said.

"Why were you picked to this mission? I hope you're not offended..." Jamson was curious to know.

"Well...I served with Commander Harrison aboard the USS Hood. We have some coporate memories together...if you know what I mean." Mitchell smiled.

"I understand." Jamson returned a smile to Mitchell and they both saw the Admiral enters the room.

"Here we go...." Jamson said while he stares at the Admiral.

Commander Michael Jamson
FO/XO
USS Galaxy

The excitement of finally being on a ship! She'd worked hard for this. The two years on G117 were finally beginning to seem more like a bad dream than a reality.

"Computer, what time is it?" Morgan inquired. "The time is 15:30 hours." The mechanical voice of the computer intoned.

Half an hour left before she had to be on the bridge. Time for one last cup of coffee before she left. "Computer, one cup of capuchino sweet with extra whip. And put through any commuiques to my terminal." Morgan requested. Taking the steaming mug over to her desk she looked through her mail.

She had several communiques. One was a party invitation. "Hmm, a party."

Morgan hadn't been getting out much during her off duty hours and decided to attend.

"Computer, send message to Ensign Sherman Helms."

"Begin message." The computer intoned.

"To Ensign Helms from Ensign Kalriesen. Regarding party on holodeck, I shall be able to attend. Thank you for the invitation."

"Computer. End message and send to Ensign Helms."

"Message sent." The computer replied.

One of the letters was from her old starfleet buddy Tony Bigliano. Morgan read his letter with mixed emotions. While at they were at the academy they were inseparable. They had even applied to the same ship. Back then they had some big plans for their lives in Starfleet. Well, so much for being together, Morgan thought.

Just then the alarm went off and she had to report for duty. Checking herself in the mirror one last time, she headed out the door.

---The bridge---

Morgan stepped off the lift and headed for the helm.

"Ensign Kalriesen here to relieve you sir." She announced to her superior Ti, Miran.

"Very well ensign, the helm is yours. It should be a quiet shift." The lieutenant said.

"Yes sir, have a good evening sir." Morgan replied as she eased herself into the helmsmans seat.

"Ensign." Began Lieutenant Ti with a slight smile on her lips.

"Yes sir." Morgan replied.

"I know your name by now. No need to keep announcing yourself to me."

"Uh, sorry sir, I guess I'm still functioning in academy mode. It won't happen again." Morgan replied sheepishly.

"It is now 0700. It is now 0700.."

"Computer, shut up!"

She really needed to do something about the volume of that alarm...

She was in sickbay, working through papers and trying to clear sickbay of the remaining security officers.

She had not yet had the chance to introduce herself to the new member of her staff. They were all so busy with the recent emergency that introductions were not exactly foremost on anyone's mind.

She knew she had to at least brief the young lieutenant on protocol and what she expected out of her medical team.

TO: LT. JG. DASSAUT, M.D.
FROM: COMMANDER JACQUELINE ROUSSEAU, M.D.
SUBJECT: FORMAL WELCOMING

I know the recent holodeck crisis prevented our meeting. I applaud your skill in handling emergencies. You proved invaluable to Medical.

I would like for you to meet me at 1430 tomorrow in my office for a briefing in policy and the working routine.

END MESSAGE

"Good morning, Cmdr, I thank you for accepting my invitation."

Jamson entered Shivoks quarter, looked around and finally said: "I'm pleased to come by, since it was me to call you for a meeting, even that early in the morning."

Shivok gently directed Jamson at the large octagonal table. It was prepared for breakfast.

"Please have a seat and share the breakfeast with me. We could use this occasion to talk over your situation in a more comfortable way."

Jamson gladly accepted, since he didn't have the chance to eat much after the workout. Shivoks invitation for 0630 puzzled his normal daily start.

Shivoks replicator produced the desired meals: a cereal for Shivok, and a ... well, a something a human being raised in a Klingon world normally takes for breakfeast. 'At least, it is not living' Shivok thought when he brought Jamson his plate.

While they were eating Shivok told Jamson the latest crew status, and Jamson informed Shivok about the situation on the holodecks and Sickbay. The came to dicuss the current mission.

Shivok said: "Admiral Blair is convinced, that he is doing the right thing. He is fully persuaded the Romulans are re-developing their weapon. And he thinks the USS Galaxy is the only ship to solve the problem...."

"But?"

"But I don't know, if the admiral is right."

The Klingon in Jamson was shocked about the obvious insubordinance against a superior, the Human heard his own doubts in Shivoks words.

"Hmmm, the Romulans very silent for more than half a year, our sensors didn't read any unsual activities. Except of the ones Admiral Blair has shown us."

"Right," Shivok broke in, "and the second unusual thing is the Romulan deserter. Our perception of the Romulans may be troubled, but we can't deny their fanatic loyality towards their Empire. A Romulan rather dies than betray the Empire."

"Romulans don't have honor. They slay civilians and killed millions of innocent people!"

"Right, as did the Klingons in earlyer days, and the Vulcans, and the humans, and almost all other known civilizations. But that's not the point. Loyality to a superior power doesn't mean honorful action."

"A thinking being must know, when an action is honorful, and when not. Honor is more important than loyality."

"Yes, for you, Michael. But Romulans have a different mind set about honor than you do, or I do. Your intensive contact with Klingons has brought in traditional Klingon values into your perspective of the world. You think of the Klingon version of honor, the Romulans see honor in loyality."

Jamson thought about Shivoks words.

"And, why the Galaxy? Sure, she is a great ship and a great crew, but why her? She was barely brought back into normal condition at Starbase, and there were some changes and recent reorganizations in the crew."

Jamson frowned his forehead: "You think of a problem?"

"No, I'm just counting the facts. From an tactical point of view, it would certainly have made sense to send a small scout ship or a cloaked ship first, so I think there must be another reason, why the Galaxy was chosen: his grand son, Lt. Troy Blair. I don't know his role in the play, but I think he certainly does have one."

"You gave me many more questions this morning, although I hoped you could help me solve some of mine." Jamson sighed.

"But we haven't arrived to your questions yet. The mail you have sent wasn't precise enough to give you an answer." Shivok smiled.

Jamson smiled back. "Yeah, you're right. I was emotionaly aroused and my mail was probably not very informative."

"So if you want to talk over your situation, please go ahead."

Stephane
aka, Counselor Shivok, USS Galaxy
email: counselor.ki-allad@datacomm.ch

"Excuse me, I'm Lt. Mitchell, and your name is....?"

Troy looked up to see Mitchell looking at him.

"Troy Blair"

"Aren't you the Admiral's son?" Mitchell asked

"I'm his grandson, but not his son"

"Oh, well pleased to meet you Troy"

"Likewise"

At that time Admiral Blair entered the transporter room, and everyone took their places on the pad.

"Here we go...." Jamson said while he stares at the Admiral.

Everything went blue, once it cleared the team found it self on Outpost Station 53.

"Well," The Admiral said, "let's go to Commander Harrison's office"

Everyone stepped off the pad and followed the Ensign who guided them to the Commander's office.

*** Commander Harrison's Office***

"I trust that your journey went well Admiral?" Harrison stated, as the away team entered the room.

"It did, Commander" The Admiral responded.

Everyone took a seat, then the Admiral got to business. "Before you show me around the station, I was wondering if you have noticed the increase in Romulan Military activity?"

"Yes we have sir, does it have anything to do with your mission?" the Commander had a worried look on his face.

"My men at intelligence thinks it may be the case, but they think it may also be routine exercises. Whatever the case is, I need you to track any ships you detect. And notify the Galaxy of any ships spotted crossing the neutral zone. No matter how small it is." said the Admiral, as he slightly leaned back in his chair.

"In your opinion, what do you think the Romulan ships are doing Commander?" Commander Jamson asked.

"Well....it doesn't look like exercises to me. The ships we've detected are constantly sweeping the area with their sensors. They travel in search and destroy type formations, then break off and go into different parts of the sector. And any communications we intercept are in code, my communication boys are deciphering them as we speak."

"What about the number of ships?" Jamson continued

"For the past two days, we've detected multiple ships, sometimes as little as three, some times as much as ten."

"Types?" the Admiral asked

"Mostly Warbirds, yesterday we detected a couple of D'deridex class battle crusiers but they left the sector later the sameday. But today, about three hours before the Galaxy arrived, all the ships we were tracking... disappeared" Commander Harrison said

"What?" a look of concern came over the Admirals face.

"They either cloaked, or left the sector. We've been doing our best since then to find any signs of cloaked ships, so far we've got nothing."

"Well Commander, make your people pull double shifts if you have to. It's imperative that nothing, I mean nothing ,interferes with this defection! It has to work at all costs!" The Admiral retorted with a solemn look on his face.

"Aye sir, I'll do everything in my power to make it happen" Harrison replied.

"Good, now that that's out of the way, how about a tour?" The Admiral asked

"My assistant, Lieutenant Commander Coseliga is waiting for you outside my office Admiral. He'll gladly show you around!"

Everyone got up and headed for the door, Troy stayed in the office for a second.

"Commander?"

"Yes Lieutenant?" Harrison replied as he looked up at Troy.

"I was wondering, if I could look at any of the information your people gathered during the investigation of the destruction of the USS Reprise?"

"You must be Troy. I knew I would hear from you sooner or later."

The Commander reached in his desk and pulled out a PADD from one of the drawers. He instantly handed it to Troy.

"That's all the information we gathered, and the conclusion we made. Don't worry about giving it back, I've got an extra copy."

"Thank you sir, I don't know what to say. I....."

Harrison cut him off, "I'd do the same if I was in your position Lieutenant. I hope it's what you were looking for"

Troy smiled, saluted the Commander and walked out of the office to join the tour.

Lieutenant JG Troy Blair
Tactical Officer, USS Galaxy

Ryan recalled a few days ago when he and Hutchcraft were conversing about their new positions, and how the executive officer demanded a report.

Quall smiled as he remembered deflecting the heat to Hutchcraft... not to be mean or anything, but it was his duty shift. Anyways, he had helped fill out the report with him.

Now, alone in the office, he wished for something to happen... anything! Even a stray cat! Quall chuckled to himself... Ensign Aaron had looked incredibly funny after his run in with that cat.

After his shift had ended, and Hutchcraft had reported in, Quall decided that he required some sleep. Ten Forward did entice him though, but in the end the calls of slumber overruled.

Lt. jg Quall
Assistant Chief of Security
USS Galaxy

She had a message from Ensign Helms about a party on the Holodeck. She wondered when it would be since the holodecks were shut down for an indeterminable time. She decided that it was one party that she didn't need to be at. She still was not comfortable at social gatherings.

She changed from her uniform into civilian clothes. During that time Bobbie took off with her comm badge. It was shiny and Bobbie loved to take off with shiny things and hide them. She got down on her hands and knees trying to convice Bobbie to come out from under the couch.

"Crazy ferret," she muttered. When she finally retrieved her comm badge, she sat down to do review the schedule. It seemed like it was working all right. She hadn't recieved any complaints yet. She decided to lay down and try to get some sleep.

ENSIGN HELMS TO CREW OF GALAXY:

ASI WAS UNAWARE OF THE INTERESTING TENDENCIES OF THE HOLODECK, THE POST-GAMMA SHIFT PARTY HAS BEEN MOVED TO TEN-FORWARD AS IT CAN ACCOMODATE A LARGE GROUP OF PEOPLE WITH LITTLE ADVANCED PREPARATION.

PLEASE RSVP: sherman@thehelm.com

Ensign Paran
Security
USS Galaxy

She started up the Ops holo station program and ran through some tests. Communications worked flawlessly. Weapons control was a little sluggish for her tastes, and shield monitoring needed revamping. She, in frustration, hit the control panel and the system shorted.

Ronni sat down and started reprogramming, adding redundant power relays and redundant imagers. She worked and slept in the lab. They had just arrived at Outpost 53 about 10 hours ago she was wondering if they were going to be given shore leave.

She tested the Ops holo station program again and it worked much better.She decided that it was time for a test. She brushed her hair and splashed water on her face and arms.

"Computer - Record message for Lt. JG. Deiran Casey."

[Proceed]

"Lt. Casey, how would you like to help me test something. I need a real Ops officer to give my new design a shake down and to give me your honest opinion. Until Lt. T'Nevin gives me a set shift, I'm free to be here whenever you're available. Thanks! Ronni." she said. "Computer - Send message."

"Computer - Duplicate the message just sent, replacing Lt. Casey's name with Ensign Trinker's and send message."

[Messages sent]

Shaking the cobwebs out of her head she decided that it was time for food. She tapped her comm badge "Lt. Morris to Ensign K'arta."

"K'arta here"

"Do you want to meet me for dinner at Ten Forward?" Ronni said hopefully.

Kane was working overtime and as fast as possible to prove to Captain Price that he was capable of the position of Chief Engineer that had been allocated to him. While he was happy being promoted due to Lt. JG Capizzi's transferral, it was a forced promotion, not one he had earned. He would stand up to the job.

Julian King

STARFLEET INTERSHIP SOCIAL NETWORK
PARTY NOTIFICATION:
TO: CREW OF USS GALAXY
FROM: ENSN S. HELMS (sherman@thehelm.com)

message follows:

Just wanted to post this so as to clear up the questions everyone seems to be sending me:

(1) the party is no longer on the holodeck, it is in ten-forward.
(2) Yes all of you are invited.
(3) Yes, that includes everyone.
(4) Yes, I have recieved a lot of response.
(5) The party is post-gamma shift.
(6) It's going to happen as soon as I get all the RSVP's

HOPE THIS CLEARS UP A LOT OF THE CONFUSION,

ENSIGN SHERMAN HELMS (HELM DEPT.)

Commander Harrison began leading Admiral William Blair and the away team on a tour of the Outpost station.

Being but a small Neutral zone monitoring station, Outpost 53 was not very large. Commander Jamson had whispered to Lieutenant Mitchell while walking on the tour that he'd not like to be posted on such a small station. Mitchell agreed, but did so with caution, not wanting to hurt the feelings of his friend and one time shipmate, Commander Harrison.

Harrison spoke with great pride as he described areas of his station and introduced Admiral Blair to his crew members. It was all pretty routine, until one of his own men approached to interrupt.

"Excuse me Commander. You said to notify you immediately of any new activity near the Romulan Neutral Zone."

"Yes, of course. What is it Ensign?" Harrison asked. Admiral Blair and the rest of the landing party listening closely.

"We have picked up a small craft, possibly a shuttle headed on an intercept course. If it holds course and speed it will enter the Neutral zone in two minutes."

"Understood Ensign. Keep tracking it and inform me of any changes in it's course or speed." Harrison orders.

"Aye Sir." the Ensign nods before returning to his post.

"Well, it looks like it's time to end this fine tour Commander." Admiral Blair says in a relaxed voice. Jamson, Mitchell and even Troy notice that Admiral Blair seems almost relieved at the news.

"Of course Admiral. I am glad you we able to indulge my request to come on board. We don't get many Admirals out this way. It was a honor having you on board Sir."

Admiral Blair smiles and nods. He then turns to Commander Jamson. "Commander, if you'll arrange for our immediate transport back to the Galaxy?"

Jamson nods. "Yes Admiral." He then contacts the Galaxy on his comm badge. A few seconds later the four men are transported back onboard the Starship.

"We should get to the bridge." The Admiral starts. "I'm sure Captain Price will want his best men up there when we contact this Romulan woman." The Admiral places his hand on Troy's shoulder as he says it, squeezing gently. Again the Lieutenant is slightly embarrassed by his grandfather's show of affection, but simply smiles and exits the transporter room with the other officers.

*********

A short time later, the four men exit the turbolift and step onto the Bridge. Everyone is busy monitoring their stations. It's obvious that the Galaxy crew have all ready been made awayre of the Romulan shuttle's presence.

"Admiral, I trust the tour of the Outpost station went well?" Captain Price asks.

"Yes, a fine station. Has the Shuttle crossed into Federation space yet Captain?"

"It's entering the Neutral zone now Admiral. It will take less than a minute to cross over into our space."

"I see. Excellent." The Admiral placed his hands behind his back and began pacing around behind the tactical arch. Lieutenant Blair stood near Lieutenant Commander Coe at the Tactical station, watching the progress of the Romulan shuttle on the sensors.

Lieutenant Mitchell walked over to the Science stations and watched the monitors there. Lieutenant T'Nevin had already set up Tachion emitters to scan for cloaked ships.

"Captain, I have the Shuttle craft within visual range." Lieutenant Ti said over her shoulder.

"On screen Lieutenant."

The view screen displayed the small shuttle as it flew closer and closer to the Federation side of the Neutral Zone.

"Captain, the shuttle has now entered Federation space." Lieutenant Commander Coe relayed from the tactical station.

The Captain was about to respond, when Admiral Blair jumped in. "Excellent. Let's go out and meet her."

All of the officers on the bridge looked at the Admiral, then back to Captain Price. The Australian just nodded back, giving his approval.

A short time later, the USS Galaxy had intercepted the Romulan shuttle craft.

"Hail the shuttle Commander." Price ordered.

Lieutenant Commander Coe opened a channel. The Romulan woman appeared on the main view screen.

"Greetings. I am Lee Price, Captain of the Federation Starship Galaxy. We have been expecting you."

"I am ri'nanov N'Prng. Where is Admiral Blair?" The woman was lovely, but rude.

Captain Price looked over to the Admiral. He brought his hands out from behind his back as he made his way down the ramp to stand next to Captain Price. "I am here N'Prng. Jolan'tru and welcome to the Federation."

N'Prng smiled at the Admiral. "Jolan'tru Admiral Blair. I am ready to come on board now."

"Release your controls. This ships guidance system will land your craft safely in the shuttle bay."

"Understood Admiral Blair. The controls are now yours."

"We will see each other shortly in the shuttle bay. Have a safe landing."

"Jolan'tru Admiral."

The Admiral looked over to Captain Price as the channel closed. "We need to get down to the shuttle bay Captain."

"Agreed Admiral. Lieutenant, guide the shuttle craft into the main shuttle bay. Once on board take us back to orbit Outpost station 53."

"Aye Captain." Lieutenant Ti was easily able to guide the shuttle craft into the main shuttle bay.

Admiral Blair and his grandson, Lieutenant Blair accompanied Captain Price and Lieutenant Sterner to the main shuttle bay. When the force field was reestablished and the main hangar repressurized, they stepped out onto the deck.

With a hiss, the shuttle crafts drop door opened. Like a giant clam, it lowered to the ground. Pressurized gasses swirling in the air. Finally, the Romulan woman, ri'nanov N'Prng walked down the ramp of the Rihannsu shuttle. Everyone present couldn't help but notice the surprise she was carrying.

ri'nanov N'Prng, the Romulan defector, was pregant.

When his shift was over, Shtik made his way to the Ten-forward lounge. Sitting at the bar, he was quickly greeted by the bartender.

"Hello, You're Lt. Shtik aren't you?" The bartender said, tackfully avoiding physical contact with the vulcan. "I'm Liam Sketcher, I've heard about you, but I don't believe we've ever officially met."

"Greetings." Shtik said simply.

"Shtik. Is that short for something?" Liam asked trying to draw the vulcan into a conversation. Shtik raised an eyebrow.

"Have you ever known a vulcan to abreviate anything." Liam pause for a moment.

"I've never known a vulcan to crack a joke before either. Especially one aimed at himself." Shtik simply raised both eyebrows in acknowedgement. "But I definately approve. That deserves a drink. What can I get for you?"

"Nothing, thank you. I am simply here in the hopes of meeting a past aquaintance." Shtik said.

"You got it. Just call if you change your mind." Liam left Shtik. After only a short while, Janar Dassaut arrived and approached Shtik.

"It's about time I caught up with you, Buddy. How have you been?" Janar said sitting next to Shtik.

"It is pleasent to see you again as well, Janar." Shtik stated.

"So, uhm, the medical department isn't very big. And, uh...word kind of travels fast and, well, I heard what happened with D'tarn. How are you holding up?" Janar asked. Shtik turned to Janar with the vulcan equivilent of surprise.

"If you are refering to any emotional upheval that I may be experiencing due to recent events I should point out that I am not encountering any ill effects. As you know all to well, I am a vulcan I have no emotions to hinder me." Janar raised an eyebrow back at Shtik mocking him.

"As you know all to well, I am a betazoid and I know better." Janar stated back.

"I often question the logic in the association of a vulcan and a betazoid." Shtik moaned.

"You love it and you know it." Janar said laughing. Shtik sighed. "So how's that Bogart impersonation coming along?"

"I am a vulcan, I do not do impersonations." Shtik said.

"Oh yes you do." Janar said.

"No, I do not."

"Yes, you do."

"No, I do not."

"Yes, you do."

"Yes, I do."

"No, you do not"

"Very well, I will accept your analysis." Shtik stated.

Janar paused before replying, "You know I let you get away with that don't you?"

"I don't believe that you do." Shtik replied.

"Yes, I do." Janar returned.

"No, you do not."

And the evening went on...

Since no-one else had had a look at the holodecks yet, Lt. JG Kane, Chief Engineer, took it upon himself to have a look.

*** Holodeck 3 ***

Lieutenant Kane was standing outside the entrance to Holodeck 3.

"Computer. Open the last security program that was used that resulted in a crew injury, then run and immediately pause."

"Working... Request granted. Holodeck 3 program initialised. Enter when ready."

Kane entered Holodeck 3.

As Kane entered, he saw a medieval battle scene on earth. He immediately pulled off a wall panel and access the computer.

.....Half an hour later....

After a sweaty half hour Kane was surprised at his findings. He couldn't be sure, but he needed the Captain's opinion (or at least a more senior ranking crew's) on his findings.

"Kane to Captain Price?"

"Price here. What is it, Lieutenant?" replied Captain Price. He was obviously in his ready room.

"Sir, I need you, or someone else more senior to me, to come down and take a look at my findings in holodeck 3. I have discovered what might be the source of the recent injuries."

"What exactly have you found?" came the Captain's voice.

"A computer error or virus, I can't be more specific at the current time, forcibly inhibits the safety program when a fatal injury could occur. It doesn't seem to affect small thing, like falling overboard on a ship, but more in the handling of weapons. Whatever it is, it looks deliberate."

"I'll try and be there as soon as I can. If not, I'll send someone else. Price out."

Kane waited in the holodeck. *My God!* He thought to himself. *There could be a saboteur aboard.*

Julian King

While the Captain and Admiral were away down in the shuttle bay meeting with the Romulan woman, n'Prng, the bridge of the Galaxy was silent...only the hum of the engines down in engineering could be heard. T'Lein coordinated all the information coming through to the ops console and ran a few diagnostics on some of the ship's vital system (he, as well as others, knew the captain would want the ship in top operational capacity during the current mission).

After the diags and routine operations duties, Lt. T'Lein decided to send out a message to all ops personnel informing them of a meeting tonight on the Arboretum. He decided that it would be logical to go over ops protocols while there was a little free time on everyone's hands. Besides, he wanted everyone to know their duties and roles in case the Galaxy had a sudden run-in with the Romulans. He recorded the message and sent it out:

MESSAGE: All ops personnel are to report to the Arboretum at 20:00. Lt.jg Casey, Ensign Freeman can fill in at ops until you return. I will inform her of the topics we discuss at a later time. Please don't be late.

[End message.]

After sending the message, Lt. T'Lein decided to access the Library Computer Access and Retrieval System (LCARRS) to see if there was anything on file about the Romulan woman, n'Prng. As he accessed the system, he wondered why such a woman would take the risk of crossing the Neutral Zone and requesting a Federation asylum.

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

Admiral Blair, Captain Price, Lieutenant Sterner and the security team, even Troy looked at the Romulan woman as she walked down the shuttle ramp and onto the flight deck. She was not only pregnant, she looked to be very far along.

"ri'nanov N'Prng, I trust your journey went well?" Admiral Blair said in an attempt to mask everyone's surprise, including his own.

N'Prng nods. "Yes, a very smooth trip. Exactly as I had predicted Admiral." The Rihannsu woman stood at the base of the shuttle in front of Admiral Blair and the rest of the men. As she glances about, her eyes finally rest on William's waiting for introductions.

The Admiral obliges. "ri'nanov N'Prng, allow me to introduce Captain Lee Price. This ship, the Galaxy, is under his command."

Captain Price takes a small step forward. He's still shocked at learning this Romulan defector is a pregnant woman. Extending his hand, "Pleased to meet you mam."

N'Prng smiles slightly. "Ah yes, Captain Price, 'The General'. Romulan intelligence has a file on you."

Captain Price cringes noticeably as she references the nick name given to him at Starfleet academy because of the famous Civil war general his father chose to name him after. "You shouldn't believe everything you read mam." He says solemnly.

"I don't Captain. Of that you can be quite assured." Her tone was slightly cold, almost bitter.

The Admiral quickly interjected. "This fine young man here is my grandson, Troy Blair. He just was promoted to Lieutenant. I am very proud of him. ri'nanov N'Prng. Say hello son."

Again a cringe of embarrassment flushes Troy as his grandfather carries on in front of his superior officer. He manages to smile and offer his hand to the woman. "Pleased to meet you ri'nanov."

"You may call me N'Prng." She says flatly. After shaking the Lieutenant's hand she steps forward. Admiral Blair and Captain Price step out of the way slightly as she looks over their shoulder at Lieutenant Sterner and his security team. They are standing by informally, but at the ready none the less. After an evaluatory glance, the woman turns and faces Admiral Blair.

"Admiral, I have fulfilled my part of the agreement. I am here. May we now continue our negotiations..." N'Prng pauses as her Romulan eyes glance back to the security personnel. "...in private?"

"Yes of course N'Prng. Come, we can convene in the Captain's conference room. The Captain can arrange to have food and drink brought into there." The Admiral extends his hand out in a gesture for N'Prng to follow him. Captain Price nods to Lieutenant Sterner. He and his security team follow behind the Admiral and the Romulan woman as they exit the shuttle bay. Captain Price and Lieutenant Blair watch as they exit.

"Captain, I had no idea N'Prng was pregnant, did you Sir?" Troy asks. "No 'mate, that's a definite surprise to me." Captain Price sighs. "I'm afraid this may complicate things a bit more."

"Your probably right Captain, her husband will surely go looking for her, after all she's pregnant with his child." Troy responded.

"He may already have, that would explain the increase in Romulan Military activity."

"I think as a precaution, we should monitor all communications going to and from the Galaxy" Troy blurted out.

"Good idea 'mate" Price said as he looked in Troy's direction. "Put Lieutenant Casey on it. He's probably looking for something to do anyways." Price answered with a grin.

"I'll let him know directly Captain."

"Well, at least it appears your grandfather's mission was a success. All that's left now is to return them to earth. Could have been worse. Much worse." Captain Price smiles as he finishes patting Troy on the back as they prepare to exit the shuttle bay behind the security team and the Admiral.

*********

"May I get you anything to drink N'Prng?" The Admiral said in his usual diplomatic tone.

"Just water thank you."

William filled her cup from the glass pitcher that sat on the conference room table. Other than the food and drinks on the table, no one else was present in the huge room.

"There you go. Why don't you tell me a little about yourself N'Prng. Starfleet briefed me quickly before I was sent out here, but our files are not as... detailed as your own. I believe a successful negotiation must first start by knowing the people whom you are dealing with."

N'Prng took the glass in both hands and gently sipped from it. Her eyes peering over at the Admiral the whole time. Romulan eyes. She was evaluating an adversary. Finally, she lowered the glass.

"I am ri'nanov N'Prng. My husband is Fvillha H'Rid. Director of the plasma-based molecular implosion field project. A brilliant man. For years his studies have been based upon the lost works of the original scientists from a hundred years earlier. He'd never had much recognition, or success until now."

"I see." Admiral Blair says as he sits back in his seat, forming a steeple with his hands and index fingers. "Is that why you wish to leave him? Because of his sudden fame and success?"

"You know nothing of the Rihannsu Admiral. I enjoyed H'Rid's fame. His success elevated us to another plane of prestige and power."

"Then why are you doing this?" Admiral Blair didn't understand. N'Prng was speaking with such pride about her husband's accomplishments. He was at a loss in finding her motives for doing this.

"We began attending parties. Social gatherings, with high powered government officials. One was even held at the Prateor's personnal estate. There, while mingling with the bureaucrats, I learned of the true purpose for my husbands work. A weapon so powerful, the Romulan Empire could destroy all that opposed them in this quadrant. This plasma cannon project, is a first strike weapon system. Its' sole purpose, to lead the Empire to victory in conquering the entire quadrant, the entire galaxy. "

"Yes. Starfleet briefed me on the potential such a weapon would posses. But you speak with such pride about your Rihannsu heritage. Why wouldn't you want the Empire to expand and succeed?"

N'Prng's eyes narrowed. "At what price Admiral? Billions would be killed in such a war. Entire planetary systems destroyed. History has always been a valued teaching in my family. We remember what war is like. I will not be part of a premeditated action to bring on such a war."

"I understand. You are a brave woman for taking such a stand. Did you bring the information on your husband's work N'Prng?" The Admiral felt bad for asking, but he needed to get things back to the issue at hand.

"I have brought them. However, they are all encrypted. Once our negotiations are completed, I will give you the decryption codes." N'Prng showed Admiral Blair numerous colored isolinear chips, which she then returned to her pocket.

Admiral Blair was a little surprised by N'Prng's comment. He had thought the negotiation was complete. "I am afraid I do not understand N'Prng. What is there left to negotiate? In exchange for your safe asylum in the Federation, you will provide the information on your husband's research."

With the smile only a Romulan can muster, N'Prng looked directly at the Admiral. "No Admiral. In exchange for my husband's research, Starfleet will provide me with safe asylum in the Federation AND will perform an abortion. I no longer wish to carry the eri'hfirch of Fvillha H'Rid."

Admiral Blair's mouth dropped partly. N'Prng had just landed a bomb shell.

*********

"Captain, what's taking so long? They have been in there for hours?" Jamson was concerned naturally. He was referring to Admiral Blair and the Rihannsu woman. They'd been in a closed doors meeting all of this time.

"I don't know 'mate. But I am sure Admiral Blair will let us know as soon as the meeting is over."

Another hour past. Captain Price was growing concerned. The Galaxy was still in orbit around Outpost station 53. Everything up to this point had gone smoothly, but he felt the longer they remained this close to Romulan space, the greater the likely hood of something going wrong.

"Captain. I am detecting a Romulan Warbird decloaking just on the Romulan side of the Neutral Zone." It was Mr. Shtik at science station one. He was monitoring the Tachion emitters that T'Nevin had set up earlier.

"Signal Yellow alert 'mate. Hail them."

The klaxon softly began to wail in the back ground as the ships alert status lights flashed yellow. A few moments later the Romulan Warbird Commander was on the main view screen.

"This is Commander G'Hal of the Romulan Warbird B'Yton. We have traced an escaped Rihannsu shuttle craft through the Neutral zone and to your present coordinates. You will return the shuttle, and it's occupant at once!"

"This is Captain Lee Price of the Federation Starship Galaxy. What claim do you have over this 'escaped' shuttle?'"

Captain Price's comment angered the Romulan Commander. "It is a Rihannsu shuttle craft. It was stolen by ri'nanov N'Prng, a criminal of the Romulan Empire. She is to be returned to Romulus to be tried and punished for her crime. You will cooperate with the extradition or face the consequences."

"I will take your extradition request into consideration. Allow me time to contact my superiors for advisement. Would that be acceptable Commander G'Hal?"

The Romulan Commander muted the channel as he turned to his subcommander to talk. After a moment, the channel opened again.

"We will give you one Earth hour to make your decision Captain Price. Commander G'Hal out." The channel closed.

"I need to speak to Admiral Blair about this. Commander Jamson, you have the Conn."

As the Captain began to exit the bridge in route for the conference room and Admiral Blair, Jamson responded, "Aye Captain."

*********

Captain Price approached the conference room. Lieutenant Sterner and his security team stood out side in the corridor guarding the entrance.

"Captain Price. Hi Sir." Sterner said. He and his men had been guarding the Romulan woman for hours now.

"As you were Lieutenant. I need to speak to Admiral Blair."

"As you wish Captain." Sterner activated the conference room doors and Captain Price stepped inside.

"Captain Price. What excellent timing." The Admiral looked tired, but also glad for the diversion. He soon noticed the look on the Captain's face.

"Admiral, we have just made contact with a Romulan Warbird. They are demanding the return of the shuttle craft and it's occupant." Captain Price directed his comments to the Admiral, purposely leaving N'Prng out of the conversation.

The Romulan woman wouldn't have any part of that. "What Ship Captain?"

Admiral Blair gave the Captain a look telling him to answer.

"The B'Yton."

"That's is Commander G'Hal's ship. One of the Prateor's finest flagships. You can be assured more ships will appear shortly Admiral. So you see, you must grant my request. You are running out of time."

Captain Price was confused, having come into the middle of the negotiations. "What request Admiral?"

This time, N'Prng cut off the Admiral's response to answer for herself. "In exchange for my husbands research, I request asylum in the Federation AND an abortion."

Captain Price's eyes widened. Abortion was unheard of in the 24th century. Technology had advanced to the point where unwanted pregnancies simply did not happen. He stood there in silence for a moment.

"You are wasting time gentlemen. Once the eri'hfirch of Fvillha H'Rid has been aborted, the Romulan Empire will no longer have a claim on me."

"Mam, Commander G'Hal claims you have stolen the Rihannsu shuttle craft. That you are a thief and requests your extradition on those grounds."

N'Prng laughs. "I own that shuttle craft Captain. G'Hal is stalling for time. Probably to allow his reinforcements to arrive. You will perform the abortion Admiral, or your mission will fail."

Captain Price looked at Admiral William Blair. The hours of negotiations had taken it's toll on him. He looked tired and worried.

"Captain Price, notify your medical staff to prepare to abort ri'nanov N'Prng's unborn baby."

"But Admiral!" Captain Price exclaims, he is promptly cut off by Blair.

"No Buts Captain, that is an order! Also have your helmsman plot a course back to Earth. We will leave immediately. I want to get the ship deeper into Federation space as quickly as possible, before Commander G'Hal's enforcements arrive."

Sitting at the head of the conference table, ri'nanov N'Prng flashes her Romulan teeth in a smile. She had managed to win her negotiation with the Admiral. The information must be critical to the Federation for him to so easily concede.

Admiral Blair begins to exit the conference room. As the doors swoosh open, Captain Price grabs his arm and swings him around. Sterner and the rest of his security team can't help but over hear.

"Admiral. This is wrong. It goes against everything Starfleet and the Federation represents. The very mission of the vessel, 'to seek out new life and civilizations'. How can you even consider performing such an operation? It is wrong and I will not allow it. Not on my ship."

Admiral Blair became furious. "How dare you speak to me in such a tone Price! I am an Admiral. You have your orders. Inform sickbay to prepare for the abortion at once. Do you understand Captain? And I mean now!"

Captain Price released the Admiral's arm in a slow display of disgust. He stood there stunned for a moment. He had failed to get through to the Admiral. His superior officer. He was right. The chain of command dictated that a Captain is to follow orders from his superiors without question. But Lee's conscious simply would not allow him to do so in this case.

"No Sir. I will not carry out your orders. I will not have an innocent, defenseless child murdered for a potential political gain. I am sorry Admiral."

"Then you are relieved of your command Price!" Admiral Blair glanced over to Lieutenant Sterner. "Lieutenant, effective immediately I am assuming command of this vessel. Escort Captain Price to the Brig."

Each of the security officers looked at the Lieutenant. They had all overheard the conversation in the hall. Glancing at Captain Price, the Chief of Security felt very badly for what he was about to do.

"If you'll come with me Sir." Sterner said with a hint of remorse in his voice as he motioned down the corridor.

Captain Price went with Sterner without saying a word. Only glancing at the Admiral as he walks past.

*********

Jamson sat in the Captain's chair on the Bridge. The ship was still under yellow alert. He sat there looking out the view screen at the neutral zone. Knowing good and well that the Romulan Warbird B'Yton was waiting just beyond the other side. When Admiral Blair's hail came through, it surprised him.

"Admiral Blair to Bridge."

"Commander Jamson here Admiral. How can I help you?"

"Captain Price has been relieved of duty. I have assumed command of the Galaxy. You will plot a course back to Earth and leave immediately. Warp factor 7."

"But Admiral, that will leave Outpost Station 53 unguarded and there is a Warbird waiting in the area." Jamson questions, some what shocked that the Captain had been relieved of duty.

"Is everyone on this Starship insubordinate?!" Blair says through clenched teeth. "That is an order Commander. I will be on the Bridge shortly. First I must stop by Sickbay. Admiral Blair out."

The Channel closed. Some what shaken, as was the rest of the Bridge crew, Commander Jamson turns to the Helm. "Helmsman, plot a course back to Earth. Warp seven."

"Course laid in Sir." Ensign Kolrami replies.

"Engage."

The Starship streaks off back towards Earth, leaving Outpost Station 53 unguarded from the Romulans. Meanwhile, Admiral Blair and the Romulan defector, N'Prng, make their way to Sickbay to have her unborn baby, the eri'hfirch of Fvillha H'Rid, aborted.

Dear Crew Members

I'd like to first welcome all the new players on board and congratulate those of you, who have received their well earned promotions.

I've been on this Starship since its starting and play the part of the Counselor onboard. It's only about 4 months ago, but I have received more than 1'000 mails just dealing with the USS Galaxy! This number per se speaks about the vitality of this SIM...

We have come to a state now, where everything gets smoother and smoother. All technical problems are resolved, the mails come through and arrive at the right place. The characters know each other better and start to feel "home" in their positions.

So do I. As the Counselor of this virtual ship I think it's my job to look for the crews mood in general. I'm not only talking about the characters mood, but also about the "mood" of the SIM. I analyzed the mood and I like to share my insights with you.

1) It's a big SIM. I've lost the control about the actual number, but it must be about ... 20? NPC's not included. There are a lot of people to talk to and I guess new players have some trouble to come along with. I think it would be helpful, if they have a kind of godfather, when they enter the SIM. An experienced player to take care of him/her in the first few weeks, until he/she is familiar with the crew.

2) All of us have to struggle with the conflict of dynamic or static interaction between the characters, when we write our stories. Being too dynamic often means playing the others part and, with that, breaking a Role Playing Game rule. Being too static often means acting with his character by himself (in the holodeck or with a NPC) or self communication (thinking processes or writing emails).

The SIM is like a starship and the dynamic of the story development can be seen as the speed of its flight through the galaxy. I have no suggestion how to control the speed of the USS Galaxy, but I know I like, when it accelerates, when characters talk to each other instead of mailing, when characters interact with each other instead of single holodeck adventures and expose themselves with others in an interesting way.

3) To over exaggerate the analogy of the SIM to a starship: the direction of the SIM is like the region in space, it is discovering on its journey. And it is solely navigated by fantasy, so fantasy is explicitly allowed! Each story writer gives the ship a new order where to fly next. And a couple of contradicting orders in a row can produce a big confusion to the poor navigation computer, and therefore for the current story line.

By joining this SIM, all agree that the Captain is the one onboard, who can take full control of the navigation, if the situation requires so. And that his First Officer has the same right in case of the Captain's absence. But a situation, where the Captain has to make use of his right, is most probably not a desirable one. So it's in the SIM's best interest NOT to get in such a situation. And there are a couple of things, which could prevent such a situation to become reality:

* The USS Galaxy is a Federation Starship. A RPC has his duties onboard, as he is part in the command line. All of us know from various Star Trek shows, that the command line is a very important aspect in the Federation daily life. To break out, one needs to have a good reason. Barclay would never tell Picard about his findings, he'd rather tell Geordi first. And Geordi most often talked to Data first, before bothering his Captain. The same should also be true for the SIM.

* All member of this crew have complied themselves to the Star Trek Universe, more or less. Star Trek leaves a lot of room for all sort of fantasies, but there are also a lot of "facts" from TV shows, movies, books, etc. These facts unfold a rich and prospering universe with a specific set of givens: Warpdrive, StarFleet, Klingons, Vulcan, etc.. Many aspects of this universe are only mentioned and leave enough space for interpretation and own thoughts. But there are also clear and precise facts about powers and behavior of alien races, technology, politics, etc. There are no invincible heroes, which kick the Romulans in the back all by themselves, no "everything-doing" device quickly made after an Ensigns theoretical plans (except maybe Wesley Crushers ;-)). And Q normally doesn't care too much about the Federation, either. Leave the superheroes to other SIM's and develop your character on the roots, what all of us know.

* Each piece you add to the SIM offers an indefinite number of possible reactions from others. Don't expect, it is the one, you think of, when you write yours! Be flexible and always have alternatives in mind for your character, if there is no reaction at all.

This is what I'd wanted to tell you as the Counselor of the USS Galaxy.

Live long and prosper

Stephane
Aka Shivok, Counselor, USS Galaxy

Ensign Helms was sitting in his quarters, preparing for the party in ten-forward when he received word that the Captain had been put in the bridge for failure to comply with Admiral Blair's orders, he hadn't any idea what the orders might have been, being only an ensign and off-shift at the time, but he had the feeling that he might not want to throw a party when the crew might blow up in lieu of current events.

"Computer, open social posting database and record message to crew."

["Opened, begin message."] said the computer

"Due to unforseen circumstances, I have decided to cancel the party, I'll probably reschedule it for sometime soon, but for now it's probably not the best idea. Computer end message and post."

"Message posted."

I'd better find out what's going on before I go on shift." he mumbled to himself, "no better place than ten-forward for getting the scoop."

'Chiron, what happened??'

'I... I had a dream... of when I first discovered my telepathy... I pictured a plasma conduit...'

'These ARE plasma burns, Chiron...'

'My... they saw my eyes... ran away...'

Rousseau looked at Chiron's eyes, and almost immediately, seemed uncomfortable. 'Chiron, your eyes... they're red...'

Then it happened. Rousseau started to cry out in pain, her face seemed to be burning! A Med tech ran over to the Doctor and tried to help her. Chiron sat there in horror. He had not intended to hurt her...

'Doctor... Jaqueline... I'm sorry! My eyes...'

Another nurse started to walk over to Chiron, but Chiron stopped him, saying 'NO! Come no where near me! I have no cont ........AAAAAHHHHHHH'

Chiron grabbed the sides of his head and fell to the ground, writhing 'NO! NOOOOOOOO!'

Evidently, the nurse had called security, and they quickly subdued Chiron as the nurse pressed a hypo to the Tamarian's skin. Chiron fell silent, and they placed him on a biobed.

Chiron dove back into the Dreamscape again... unwillingly. 'What is happening?' he cried out. 'I have called you, Chiron...' The voice came from the dark.

The Tamarian decided that he probably wasn't gonna like this...

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

**In Quarters**

Maybe Janar was being a little antisocial this noon but never the less he decided to have lunch in his quarters alone. He was feeling a little down after the news of the now called off wedding. He had known both Shtick and Bellan for many years, had studied with them, had even mind melded with them once. It was more than a casual friendship and now the pain of separation and postponement. He had felt the shock and pain when D’tarna had told Shtik of her pending transfer. Now ;he just needed time alone to collect his thoughts and prepare for his meeting with Dr. Rousseau. Jan was not much on taking advantage of his status but he was grateful to have his own quarters now. It was 2:10, he had eaten only a portion of the soup and sandwich in front of him. With a last swallow of altair water he got up and prepared for his 2:30 meeting.

Just before leaving he tried to remember what it was the CMO’s file had said, she liked something- what was it? Strawberries - that’s it!

"Computer, strawberries, 250 grams, in a stasis cooler." Jan picked up the package and headed for sickbay.

**Dr. Rousseau’s office**

Jan knocked on the office wall at exactly 2:30.

"Come in" came a voice from behind the desk.

Dr. Rousseau got up from her desk and extended her hand. "I’m Dr. Jacqueline Rousseau, but you can call me Jacqueline."

"Janar Dassaut" he replied, "my friends call me Jan. I’ve never been much for titles."

At that he handed her the small package under his arm. "I have heard you like strawberries." He smiled and had just a small twinkle in his eye. "Oh, trying to suck up to the boss eh?"

Without missing a beat Jan replied, " A little sucking up never hurt anyone and is a great way to meet the boss, seriously, it is a Betazed custom to bring a gift. I hope you don’t mind?"

Returning the smile she said it was a perfect start.

"Now a little business. First let me thank you in person for your help yesterday with Ronni. I like an officer that can adapt quickly."

"I have decided to give you your choice of either beta or gamma shift. You will be the medical officer in charge of that shift."

"If I have my choice I’ll take the gamma shift." He replied. "I would also like to attempt a program that I started on the Charleston."

"Oh yes, the emergency shuttle evac program. I take it you want to implement a similar curriculum here?"

"I’m flattered you’ve heard of it, yes I would. What is your opinion?"

"I think it could work but I’ll need more information."

Jan handed her two small discs. "Here all the programs and the holosimulations for training. It is set up for myself, two nurses and four paramedics."

"Let me take a look at your programs an we can discuss it next week," she said, "that will give you a chance to look at the crew list and choose your team."

"That was easier than I thought." He said.

"Why, didn’t you read me when you came in?"

"I avoid using some of my abilities when they are not necessary. I have learned that humans become very uncomfortable without their cloak of secrecy"

"Too true Dr. And thank you for the strawberries, your research on that part of me was accurate."

"Thank you, I’ll plan on starting my shift this evening. Normally I would have asked for a tour but under the circumstances that would be a little redundant." Again he flashed a warm smile.

As he left, he felt less of the loss and more at home. It was now time to see 10 forward or as they used to say, Now comes Miller Time!

Janar Dassaut
Flight Surgeon
USS Galaxy

TO: ENSIGN SHERMAN HELMS
FROM: ENSIGN PARAN CHANOR (sls6@aber.ac.uk)
RE: PARTY

Ensign Helms. I would like to attend the party at ten forward that you are organising. Could you please give me more details about when it will be held.

After finishing the post he then checked the duty roster. He was pleasantly suprised to find that he was on it and had been posted to Gamma shift from 00:00 to 08:00. He recalled that the party was to be held after Gamma shift.

*Great, I'll be in uniform still and I'll be tired. Ah well, can't have it all.* he thought. After checking the roster, he decided to check up the crew manifests of the other officers on Gamma shift with him. However, before he could start, yellow alert sounded. At first, he was unsure of what to do, but then he realised he should contact the head of security and see if he was needed. He taped his combadge.

"Ensign Paran to Lt. Sterner"

[Sterner] "Go ahead Ensign."

"Sir, since we've just gone to yellow alert, do you need my help?"

Steven
AKA Ensign Paran Chanor

When Joerg returned to his office in the morning he was informed, that the Galaxy would arrive shortly at Outpost 53. Being present at the meeting with the Admiral he knew, that if everything went fine, the Galaxy will have an important guest soon. He quickly checked which guest quarter should be prepared and gave the order to do so at once. He also knew that a security team will be required to escort and guard the defector aboard the Galaxy. He decided that the Ensigns Enquist and O'Lindey should do this job in Alpha shift, so he contacted them.

"Sterner to Enquist and O'Lindey. Report to my office in two hours. Sterner out."

After that he wrote a messages to both his assistant chiefs to inform them, that an important person will come aboard the Galaxy soon, and that they shall arrange a security team for their shifts to escort and guard that guest.

After sending the messages he continued his daily work till the two Ensigns entered his office.

"Ensign Enquist and Ensign O'Lindey as ordered sir." they announced after entering his office.

"Well gentlemen. We'll soon arrive at the Outpost, where we'll take aboard an important guest. The details about this guest are classified. All you two have to do is escort and guard our guest once on the ship." Joerg explained.

"What do you mean with 'guard'? From who and why?" O'Lindey asked.

"That is classified. All I can say is that our guest will be transported back to Earth and shouldn't be harmed in any way. It is critical for the whole Federation that this person arrives safely at Earth." Joerg does his best to explain.

"If there isn't anything else, we'll meet in three hours in the main shuttle bay. Dismissed." Joerg ended the meeting.

For the next few hours everything went fine and Joerg hoped that it would stay that way. Then he was informed by the bridge that the guest was about to arrive and he went to meet his security team in the shuttle bay.

Before the shuttle entered the shuttle bay, Joerg informed the Captain and the Admiral that all security precautions have been taken and that a guest quarter was ready for the guest.

Then the shuttle came and landed safely in the hangar. Out of the ship a romulan woman emerged, who was obviously pregnant. Everyone, except the two security Ensigns, was surprised about that fact. The two Ensigns of course didn't know what to expect and kept their calm faces.

The Admiral introduced the woman to the few members of the crew, who were present. After that the female romulan wanted to discuss the terms of her defection with the Admiral in private. So Joerg and his security officers escorted them both to the Captain's conference room and guarded the entrance. Enquist and O'Lindey looked very confused, as if they couldn't understand why a romulan woman can be so important for the Federation, but they knew that their Chief had orders, not to tell anyone anything about that woman, so they didn't ask.

After some hours of waiting, Joerg started to ask himself what the two could possibly discuss that long. He knew of the secret weapon the husband of this woman tried to develop, and that her defection could possibly save billions of lifes, but he still wondered what the price for this defection may be.

Then suddenly yellow alert sounded and moments later his communicator chirped.

[Ensign Paran to Lieutenant Sterner.]

"Go ahead Ensign." Joerg replied.

[Sir, since we've just gone to yellow alert, do you need my help?]

"At the moment I don't need your help Ensign. Relax now for your shift and then contact Lieutenant Hutchcraft, who will give you your instructions for your shift." Joerg tried to calm down the Ensign.

[Well, thank you sir. Paran out.]

Joerg knew that Paran was new on this ship and that he tried his best to fit into the team, but there was no obvious emergency situation here.

Some moments later the Captain arrived to talk to the Admiral. Joerg opened the door and let him in. 'Must have to do with the yellow alert' he thought. Some time later the Admiral and the Captain exited the room, when the Captain turned against Blair and the two argued about an abortion. The Admiral, having been opposed by the Captain, suddenly turned to Joerg, informing him that he assumes command of the ship and that the Captain is to be put into the brig.

Joerg was too shocked by the Admiral's actions to reply anything, he just asked the Captain to accompany him. Before they left, Joerg ordered his security officers to escort both the Admiral and the romulan woman wherever they were going until relieved by the next shift's security team.

While Sterner and Price were riding in the turbo lift, Joerg found him to be very quiet and sad. He must have had his reasons to oppose the Admiral, Joerg thought.

When they arrived at security, Joerg showed the Captain the way to the brig and asked him to enter one cell. Before closing the cell with a forcefield he talked to the Captain.

"I'm very sorry to do this now sir." Joerg sadly said.

"Don't be 'mate. What I did was my own decision. What you do now is an order by an superior officer, which you have to follow or else you'll end up here like me." the Captain replied ironically.

"Well sir, that doesn't make this easier for me." Joerg admitted.

"Some ordered are not easy to follow Lieutenant, but that's the Chain of Command." Lee said.

"If you need anything sir, just call me. I'm right in the next room." Joerg added with a little smile on his face.

"Thank you Lieutenant. But for now I don't need anything."

After that Joerg pressed the button next to the door and a forcefield appeared to close the cell with the Captain. Joerg left the brig and entered his office to write the report about the Captain's actions and the Admiral's orders.

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

Lt. T'Lein sat at the ops console on the bridge when the message from Admiral Blair came over the comm system, "I have relieved Captain Price of duty, I am now in command of the ship..." T'Lein did not find logic in why the admiral had relieved the captain of duty. Outpost 53 had been left defenseless against the Romulans and, at present, the Galaxy was on Yellow Alert status. The Lt. hoped that the outpost could defend themselves if the Romulans attempted an onboard assault.

The Galaxy was on a course heading back to Earth and the Admiral was not on the bridge. Commander Jamson was in command and, as he sat in the captian's chair, he had a look of confusion on his face. Lt. T'Lein contemplated whether or not he should say anything to the commander and, after a while, decided not to, because Commander Jamson looked like he was in deep thought.

Lt. T'Lein considered it logical to put the ops personnel meeting planned for tonight off until a better time arose. He quickly sent out a new message to all ops personnel informing them of the change, as the ship filled with a confused crew sped back to Earth at Warp Factor 7.

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

Ensign Thomas Enquist was happy to be working again, but baby sitting a pregnant Romulan VIP, and a Federation Admiral to boot? Now this Admiral assumed command of the ship, and the Romulan VIP were escorted to sickbay, for an abortion! Ensign O’Lindey looked as shaken as Thomas felt, but orders are orders.

"This way, Admiral, this way to the sickbay." The admiral and the Romulan VIP just nodded, and followed. Admiral Blair suddenly tapped his combadge.

"Admiral Blair to Bridge."

[Commander Jamson here Admiral. How can I help you?]

"Captain Price has been relieved of duty. I have assumed command of the Galaxy. You will plot a course back to Earth and leave immediately. Warp factor 7."

[But Admiral, that will leave Outpost Station 53 unguarded and there is a Warbird waiting in the area.] Commander Jamson sounded shocked, and Enquist cast a look at O’Lindey, who looked pale.

"Is everyone on this Starship insubordinate?!" Blair says through clenched teeth. "That is an order Commander. I will be on the Bridge shortly. First I must stop by Sickbay. Admiral Blair out."

He turned on the poor security officers. "Now do YOU also have problems with following orders?"

"No, sir!" They both replied in chorus, their voices slightly quavering.

"Good, can we proceed now?" Blair was upset, and the Romulan woman was smirking at his outburst, but said nothing.

"Just follow me, Sir!" Enquist led the way to the turbolift. Those few they met on the way was quickly discouraged to loiter in the corridor, as the VIP party marched on.

Ensign O’Lindey cleared his throat. "Admiral, should we tell sickbay that we are coming?"

Admiral Blair just shot him a killing glare, and the poor security officer decided to be silent.

"I'll notify the sickbay of our arrival, sir." Ensign Enquist did not look at the flustered Admiral, but tapped his badge.

"Sickbay from Ensign Enquist."

[Sickbay, Doctor Rousseau here. What is the problem?]

"Doctor, I am arriving with Admiral Blair and the Romulan VIP. There seems to be a medical emergency at hand, more information on arrival."

[Tell me the nature of the emergency, Ensign.] She sounded irritated at the security officer’s secrecy.

"I’m sorry, doctor, I cannot tell you that on an open channel. We will arrive within 10 minutes, Enquist out"

Enquist wondered if he gone to far, but he thought that it was a sensitive matter, so the good doctor had to wait for further information. "Well done, Ensign. Good of you not to spread the news about the abortion. It’s restricted information." Admiral Blair seemed a bit calmer now. "Yes, sir, I understand. Sir" Enquist relaxed a little too.

They arrived at the turbolift and ordered it to sickbay. They quickly stepped out of the turbolift, and entered the sickbay, where a impatient doctor stood waiting for them...

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

Part 1 :

Jamson and Shivok were eating breakfeast and discussing the current mission. Jamson was really looking forward to tell Shivok about his own problems and soon the Commander mentioned Shivok about his own problems.

"So if you want to talk over your situation, please go ahead." Shivok smiled.

"Well...yesterday...I was walking down in one of the corridors when suddenly I noticed a beautiful human female. I stared at her and I felt my heart...it was jumping all over my body...and then I started to feel strange...I never had this kind of feeling before..." Jamson looked at Shivok.

"Commander, I believe that humans call this strange feeling...love." Shivok replied.

"Love? could this be true? I never felt this before...I only heard of it...am I becoming more Human then Klingon...?" Jamson stared at the floor.

"Michael, first of all there is no shame in showing your feelings and sharing them with others. Secondly, you are not a Klingon! you are Human, and as far as I know you are supposed to feel this 'strange' feeling every day. Many Humans find that love is quite an amazing event." Shivok answered.

"Then why didn't I felt this before?" Jamson tried to understand his new situation.

Shivok looked at him "Michael, you had no interests with Humans before, you had Klingons friends and you used to live in a Klingon enviorment. It is possible that you only discovered this feeling after you made contacts with Humans and adjusted your life according to the Human life style."

"I see..." Jamson looked suprised "Shivok...what is love?"

End of part 1

Part 2 :

****Outpost 53 - Commander Harrison's Office****

Jamson didn't really listen to the conversation between the Admiral and the Commander. He didn't liked the Admiral very much but still Admiral Blaire was his superior officer. Harrison spoke about the situation around the station in the neutral zone in the last few days before the Galaxy arrived.

Jamson asked the Commander for his opinion in this matter and Harrison replied that the Romulans were scanning the sector with their ships.

"What about the number of ships?" Jamson was curious to know about the situation, maybe the Romulans knew about the plan...maybe it was a trap.

Harriosn replied with the number of 3 to 10 ships and most of them were Warbirds, it looked like the Romulans did knew about the mission.

Reviewing the Commander's office, it was a bit small for an office but again...the outpost was not very big.

Jamson's thought were interruped by Admiral Blaire's voice "It has to work at all costs!" The Admiral screamed at Harrison, he was obsessed.

Well anyway after the little meeting was over, the Admiral insisted on a little tour around and everyone joined Lt.Commander Coseliga outside the office for the up coming tour.

After a while Commander Harrison lead the away team all over the station.

"I wouldn't want to be posted on such a small place..." Jamson whispered Mitchell as they all walked.

Harrison was very proud when he described the area around the station and introduced Admiral Blaire to his crew members.

Suddenly an Ensign approached Commander Harrison and the away team and reported on a shuttle that will cross the neutral zone in 2 minutes.

"Well, it looks like it's time to end this fine tour Commander." the Admiral said relieved.

"Of course Admiral. I am glad you were able to indulge my request to come on board. We don't get many Admirals out this way. It was a honor having you on board Sir." Harrison answered.

The Admiral nods toward Harrison and turned his look to Jamson "Commander Jamson, if you'll arrange for our immediate transport back to the Galaxy?"

"Yes Sir." Jamson nods and press his comm badge "Transport room 1, four to beam up." and in a few seconds all the four were back on the Galaxy.

End of part 2

Part 3 :

****Bridge****

All the four men returned to the Bridge, everyone were busy monitoring the Romulan Shuttle.

A few minutes later the Shuttle was already on her way to the main shuttle bay. Captain Price, Lt.Sterner, Admiral Blaire and his grandson Lt.Blaire were on there way to the main shuttle bay.

"I don't like this..." Jamson said.

"What is it that you don't like Commander?" Coe asked Jamson.

"Everything is too quiet...how is it possible that a small shuttle could pass between so many Romulan Warbirds without getting caught? something isn't right...better keep your fingers ready for some action, I can feel it." Jamson replied.

****Bridge, 2 hours later****

"Captain, what's taking so long? they have been in there for hours" Jamson was concerned about the Admiral and the Romulan female that were in the conference room for a long time

"I don't know 'mate. But I'm sure Admiral Blaire will let us know as soon as them meeting is over." Price answered.

Another hour passed and the Captain looked concerned. Jamson still felt that something was not right.

"Captain. I am detecting a Romulan Warbird decloaking just on the Romulan side of the neutral zone." Mr.Shtik reported.

"I knew it..." Jamson thought as the Captain ordered on Yello alert. "Hail them" the Captain said and a few seconds later the image of the Romulan Commander appeared on the main viewscreen.

"This is Commander G'Hal of the Romulan Warbird B'Yton. We have traced an escaped Rihannsu shuttle craft through the neutral zone and to your present coordinates. You will return the shuttle, and it's occupant at once!" The Romulan Commander looked a little angry.

The Captain responded and the Romulan Commander got even more upset, He wanted the Rihannsu women to be trialed back at Romulus.

"Allow me to contact my superiors for advisement. Would that be acceptable Commander G'Hal?" Price asked the Romulan Commander.

For a few moments Commander G'Hal muted the channel and turned to consult his subcommander.

"We will give you one earth hour to make your decision Captain Price. Commander G'Hal out."

The Captain got up "I need to speak with Admiral Blaire about this. Commander Jamson, you have the Conn."

"Yes Sir." Jamson responded and continued seating in his own chair.

"Romulans..." Jamson thought to himself "They have not Honor..."

****20 minutes later****

"What's the situation Coe?" Jamson addressed Lt.Commander Coe "Nothing Sir, everything is still the same."

The voice of Admiral Baire came through the comm' system "Admiral Blaire to Bridge."

"Commander Jamson here Admiral. Hoe can I help you?"

"Captain Price has been relieved of duty. I have assumed command of the Galaxy. You will plot a course back to Earth. Warp factor 7." The Admiral ordered.

"But Admiral, that will leave Outpost 53 unguarded and there is a Warbird waiting in the area." Jamson was shocked to hear the news.

The Admiral screamed "Is everyone on this Starship insubordinate?! This is an order Commander. I will be on the Bridge shortly, first I must stop at sickbay. Admiral Blaire out."

All the crew on the Bridge was shocked includng Jamson. "Helmsman, plot a course back to Earth...Warp 7." Jamson fell into his chair "Engage."

"Could this be true? did Captain Price was really relieved of duty? it's impossible..." Jamson couldn't believe it.

"Sir, like you said we are leaving the Outpost unguarded! we can't do that!" Coe said to Jamson.

"Coe...It was the Admiral's orders..." Jamson tried to find an excuse.

"It's not the Admiral's ship!" Coe replied.

Jamson got up and headed toward the turbolift "Mr.Coe, you have the Conn. I'l be in sickbay discussing with the 'ADMIRAL'."

"Sir?" Coe addressed Jamson but the Commander didn't answer.

On his Jamson felt the anger inside him...he could feel that in a while nothing could stop him from getting wild, it was his Klingon side.

"Damn Admiral! damn it!" Jamson said and punched a computer panel that was located in one of the corridors.

"I should have know...It must be that Romulan Female!" Jamson said and kicked the broken panel.

****Sickbay****

Jamson entered the room like a storm, he quickly located the Admiral near one of the Bio beds and approached him.

"Commander Jamson, I thought you were suppose to be on the Bridge!" The Admiral said angrily.

"Admiral! I demand...." Jamson noticed the Rihannsu pregnet women.

"So... this is the Romulan female..." Jamson looked at her.

"Commander, I asked you a question! why aren't you on the Bridge?" The Admiral insisted to know.

"Sir, I demand to know why Captain Price was relieved of duty." Jamson was a little rude.

"Captain Price refused to continue the mission. Now you will get back to the Bridge." The Admiral ordered Jamson.

"Sir, Captain Price would not refuse to continue the mission just like that. There must be a reason behind this." Jamson tried to get an answer.

"Commander! you will return to your station on the Bridge, now." The Admiral started to get angry.

"Sir, we have left Outpost 53 unprotected while there is a Warbird in the area...and then Captain Price was relieved of duty...I need to know what...." Jamson tried to speak.

"You need to know nothing Commander! now get back to the Bridge before I'll..." The Admiral's voice was interrupted by the Romulan female's laugh.

"If you were a Male I would have..." Jamson approached the Romulan female.

"Commander! one more step and you will be ending your career in Starfleet right here!" Admiral Blaire screamed at Jamson.

"Sir! I will not...!"

"Commander Jamson! one more word and you will join Captain Price in the Brig! the discussion is over! now get back to the Bridge! " Blaire shouted at Jamson and Jamson just stood there and stared at Blaire's eyes.

"Now Commander! do you understand?!" the Admiral was mad.

"YES SIR!" Jamson replied and took a last look at the Romulan female and then, he exited sickbay heading toward the Brig.

"I must do something..."

Commander Michael Jamson
FO/XO
USS Galaxy

Lt. Mitchell thought back on the events of the past few hours. After being chosen to accompany the away team to Outpost 53, he was puzzled about the secrecy going on about the ship. Hardly getting the chance to speak with Commander Jamson, he had beamed down to the station for a tour. At his meeting with Commander Harrison, he finally had learned of the mission the Galaxy was on. They were to pick up a Romulan defector and bring her to an as yet unknown destination to retrieve data accrued during his/her previous stay in their once loved homeland. He was curious why a Romulan would permanently leave, and why they would steal information for Starfleet and the Federation of all people. They were their sworn enemies, but the Peace Treaty between the two powers and the formation of the Neutral Zone kept each other at bay. This defector, if carrying important information, could very well destroy that very treaty and start a new war. It was nervous enough being near the Neutral Zone as it is.

Soon after the team had beamed down, a messenger had interrupted their tour to inform them that an alien vessel had appeared out of the Zone. Before getting the chance to speak with Commander Harrison, James was ordered to beam back to the ship to await the vessel. As soon as they returned, Commander Jamson ordered all personnel to return to their posts. To James surprise, Jamson ordered him to the bridge. As soon as they arrived, James was ordered to Science station 2 to analyze sensor readings from the now known Romulan shuttle. The bridge was ablur with activity. Admiral Blair was in conversation with Captain Price when the transmission came through from the shuttle. When the image of the Romulan female came on screen, everyone hushed. The Admiral and Captain Price went throught the normal procedural greeting and invited the defector on board. Everything was still a mystery though; their conversation was limited and short. As they arranged for the shuttle to dock on the ship, the two men and Lt. Blair left to welcome their "guest".

About a half hour had passed when Captain Price returned to the bridge stating to Commander Jamson that the Admiral and the Romulan were behind closed doors in the Conference Room. Jamson was naturally curious as to the nature of the visit, but the Captain insisted he knew about as much as he did. Hours passed. After much agitation and slightly nervous glances at the viewscreen, the crew began to get restless, as did the Captain. Commander Jamson noticed this and voiced his irritations. The Captain was equally irritated, but kept it to himself. He reminded Commander Jamson that the Admiral would let him know as soon as possible.

Another hour passed. The crew was on edge. There was tension in the air as members gave each other that look. They were all wondering when the Romulans would show up. Suddenly, James heard Mr. Shtik's console next to him beep. Going to it, he assisted the Lt. in analyzing the data being received from the Tachyon emitters that Lt. T'Nevin had set up earlier. As the information came through, Shtik recognized the emissions as power curves of the Romulan cloaking devices. As he was about to speak up, the ship decloaked.

Seeing the danger, Captain Price ordered yellow alert. Klaxons ringing in the background, communications with the Romulan were established. The Captain attempted to speak diplomatically, but the Romulan Commander wouldn't listen. He only wanted the female defector. After inferring a threat, he gave the Captain one hour to return her, or pay the consequence. He then cut transmission in usual Romulan style. Captian Price set a grim look, looked at the chronometer and left the Bridge to Commander Jamson. He had decided to speak with the Admiral and get some answers.

After assisting Mr. Shtik with the sensors and watching the Warbird, Commander Jamson asked on the status of the Romulans. Answering him back that there was no change, James noticed that the Commander had the look of a man's hands tied and is about to be fed to the lions. James avoided him.

Twenty minutes later, Admiral Blair's voice came through the comm system. Acknowledging him, Commander Jamson replied. Blair was blunt and to the point. You could hear the anger in his voice. He was the lion. He had relieved the Captain and thrown him in the brig. The crew was shocked and Commander Jamson spoke for them. The Admiral had ordered the return of the Galaxy to Earth and leave the outpost undefended! As Jamson reminded him of this, Admiral Blair flew into a rage, threatening more dismissals. Admiral Blair cut off the transmission. Angry, with hands rolled into tight balls, Commander Jamson ordered the course change through clenched teeth. The helmsman spoke up, but Jamson cut him off. Getting up, Jamson left the bridge to Lt. Coe and left to "speak" with the Admiral. Or so he says. Walking into the turbolift, Jamson spun around and told the computer his destination-Sickbay. The last thing James saw as the lift doors closed were Jamson eyes. They were cold, staring, and glazed over. They were the look of a man about to kill.

As the doors closed, the crew were in a hush. Suddenly they all broke out talking.

"Alright!" Lt Coe yelled out over the din, "Enough!" The crew hushed instantly.

"Now, listen up. We are all going to do our jobs. Commander Jamson is going to find out what is going on and I'm sure he'll let us know. Now, before Admiral Blair catches wind of what's being said up here and throws us in the brig, I suggest we keep it to ourselves and not spread rumours. I want to know what's going on as much as you, but we'll know soon enough. Now back to work."

Coe sat back down. James was shocked still but sat down anyways. Staring at the viewscreen, he wondered if he was going to be witness to the first shot fired in a new war with the Romulans. He couldn't help but be afraid of Admiral Blair and his actions.

"Computer, record message." Deiran Casey was exhausted but even exhaustion didn’t phase him, he was a man driven, and if that drive drove him to the extreme then so be it.

"Ronni, I will be happy to assist you in any way I can. Let me know the details of your experiment and when you’ll be working on it and I’ll be there. It would be best for me if we worked on it during Gamma shift."

"Computer, address message to Lt.(JG) Ronni Morris and send."

After sending the message Deiran checked his uniform in his mirror, making sure it was in top condition and looked like an officer’s uniform should and then commanded the computer to turn down the lights and left for Ten Forward.

When Casey arrived at Ten Forward he went to the bar and started a conversation with his ol’ buddy Liam,"Hey, man! I should be able to practice next week. I have several assignments that I’m working on that’s taking time away from my leisure time and can’t get out of it. But, I wanted to let you know I’ll be free next week to devote time to practice."

"Sounds good Deiran, I’ll let everyone else know," Liam replied with a smile,"who should we get to replace D’tarna?" Liam asked. "I’ll leave that up to you," Deiran replied in a dry, caustic tone. Liam could see that was a touchy subject, and could see how hurt Deiran was over D’tarna’s transfer.

Liam thought it wise to change the subject,"Your girl is over there, she seems kind of lonely."

That sparked Deiran up. He looked and saw Miran sitting at the table and looking out into space, almost as if she was in deep thought or in a trance.

"You want anything to drink?" Liam asked.

"Yeah, a yellow rada tree juice, no syrup."

"Coming right up." Yellow Rada Tree Juice was one of the most rare juices in the quadrant, but it could be duplicated and when it was the flavor wasn’t as tangy sweet, but it was still good. "Liam, make that two."

Deiran turned around to see that Liam had already anticipated the request and prepared two. Casey picked them up, thanked Liam for his service and walked to Miran’s table.

"Hi gorgeous, I’ve got a great juice here for you, care to try it?" Deiran looked down at Miran, smiling from one ear to the other. "Sure, what is it?" Miran smiled back, her face actually lit up when she saw him.

"It’s a Yellow Rada Tree Juice drink, I’m not sure where it’s from but I first had one on Risa, it’s one of my favorites."

Miran took a sip, a bit hesitantly. "Mmmmmm, that is good."

"I’ve never met anyone who didn’t like that drink, even Vulcans like it."

Miran laughed at that comment.

"How was your shift?" Deiran asked.

"Haven’t you heard?" Miran was taken back by the fact Deiran didn’t seem to know what had taken place in the last few hours.

"Heard? Heard what?" Deiran had been sleeping for the last seven hours.

"The Captain’s in the brig!"

That hit Deiran like a Nausican punch in the face.

"What for?" Deiran asked.

"Going against Admiral Blair’s orders."

"What were the orders?"

"To tell Dr. Rousseau to perform an abortion."

Deiran’s face turned blood red,"AN ABORTION!" the entire room looked at Deiran, his yell disturbed them all. Deiran wanted to swear, kick the table, punch the wall. Anything to take his aggressive anger out, to let it vent. But he was in the presence of a lady and contained himself, it was a hard thing to do.

"Why in the world would the Admiral order an abortion?" Deiran asked, still disgusted but quieter this time.

"Nobody really knows except the Admiral, Captain Price, Troy and that Romulan woman."

"I’ll have to have a talk with Troy. I may stand against the Admiral on this one, there’s no way I’m standing around and watching while an innocent life is snatched away by some insignificant order from a holier-than-thou Admiral! You with me?"

Miran was nervous and hesitant, not sure what she wanted to do,"I’ll think about it."

She stopped that sentence and started another conversation,"Shouldn’t you be on the bridge, isn’t it your shift?"

"Yes, but the Ops department is having a meeting in a couple of hours and Ensign Freeman asked if he could take the whole shift. He hasn’t seen much action lately, so I thought it would be the best thing. He deserves some time on the bridge anyway. I’ve been working so hard, I don’t think I’ve slept more than four hours a night in the last month, although I did get seven last night."

"Are you doing okay? How’s Bobbie?" Deiran hoped he remembered the ferret’s name.

"She’s a little rascal. She hid my comm badge this morning."

Deiran laughed,"I told you, I warned you about them."

"She’s so cute though!" Miran said this with a baby-like voice, almost melting at how cute the little rat was.

"I can’t be late for my meeting, I’ll see you later. We’ll make plans for another date soon, is that okay?"

Miran shook her head yes, she was drinking her juice. Without thinking Deiran kissed Miran on the cheek, it was a reflex, after it was done he didn’t know what to say. It was innocent enough, but it was the first time they’d had any intimate contact. Deiran didn’t want to confront it and decided to pretend to ignore it, he said goodbye again and left Ten Forward for the Arboretum.

Deiran paced the pathways of the Arboretum, he was early, by an hour and a half. Lt. T’Lein said not to be late. He spent the whole time thinking about the faux paus with Miran, he hoped she wasn’t offended, he actually wanted to kiss her the first time he saw her. But, he just couldn’t stop the butterflies in his stomach, would she call it all off over a sweet, innocent peck on the cheek and panic or would she welcome his affections?

Only time and Miran could answer his question.

[at the helm]

Ensign Helms sat at the helm, patiently guiding the Galaxy on what seemed to be normal opperations, except that they weren't normal, the captain was in the brig, and somebody else was sitting in his chair.

What the hell am I supposed to do? Dissobey orders? Go up against an admiral? My God, he'd already been demoted once, and now within the first month of his duty on the Galaxy his captain is thrown in the brig. I guess they were right about that party not being a good idea. I'd better find out what I can about this whole thing before I get my head chopped off.

[In Ensign Helms Quarters]

"Mabye I can find out something from my old pals at the Mars Base" he thought to himself "They always know everything."

"Computer, open a com channel to Mars, Utopia Planitia Shipyards, Spacecraft Design Division, Test Pilots Officers Quarters, Commander "Ace" Downs."

"Channel open, onscreen"

The face of a bedraggled officer with blondw hair and blue eyes appeared on the viewscreen.

"Ace here, who's calling?" said Commander "Ace" Downs

"It's shermdog ace, how ya doin?"

"Lieutenant Helms! what a surprise, what can I do for you?"

"It's Ensign now sir."

"Yeah, nasty buisness that, all because of someone thinking higher of you than starfleet."

"I need to ask you a favor. . ."

"Anything for the best helmsman in the quadrant, I owe you my life dammit!"

"Well I'm on the galaxy and up until a couple of hours ago, everything was great, then we pick up this admiral and everything goes to hell: I have to cancel my party, we pick up some romulan, then the captain gets thrown in the brig. I need you to find out about this romulan woman, what she's doing here, and why she's so important plus what she has to do with the Romulan crusers my commanding officer just left in our wake. Can Do?" he said in a rapid fire staccaco.

"I think I can pull rank and get you the information, the question is what are you going to do with it?"

"I don't know but let's just say I'll use it to keep my neck out of the hangman's noose."

"Fine I'll do it, but be careful Helms, The Galaxy could blow up over this. Watch your back!"

"I will sir, ace a greenie for me."

"Piece of cake shermdog. Downs out."

"Connection Terminated." said the computer.

What am I going to do now? thought Ensign Helms.

"When do our reinforcements arrive?" Commander G'Hal spat out at his sub commander.

"About 20 minutes Riov G'Hal" Fewso, the anxious Sub- Commander returned.

"What ships are they?"

"The Warbirds Ra'Kholh and S'Harien, sir"

"Mnek'nra" G'Hal muttered while staring at the viewscreen.

The hour given to the Federation was almost up, as soon as the reinforcements arrived the attack could begin. Commander G'Hal motioned to his sub commander to open a ship wide channel.

"We have been cleared by the Prateor to take any action necessary to return ri'nanov N'Prng back to Rihannsu space" the Commander spoke in a low Romulan tone.

"As you know she is a traitor to the glorious Empire, and must be brought to justice. Currently we are waiting for the Warbirds Ra'Kholh and S'Harien to provide back up for us. Once they arrive we can cross the Neutral Zone and teach the lloan'na not to harbor criminals of the Empire. I have faith that you, my crew, will bring victory to the Prateor and the Empire." With a snap of his fingers the channel was ended. All that could be done now was to wait.

Once N'Prng was discovered missing, H'Rid convinced the government to have the military search for her. It was rumored that N'Prng had copied information about the cannon and planned to use it in exchange for asylum, but it hasn't been proven. At first no one knew where N'Prng went, every border was searched but nothing was found. Then, the military intercepted a communiqué from N'Prng to her parents saying good bye. The source was immediately traced to a shuttle near the Neutral Zone, heading toward Lloan'na space. The Warbird B'Yton was sent to intercept the shuttle however it was too late, for N'Prng had already crossed the Neutral Zone.

"Sir..." Fewso continued, "Commander L'Sarz of the Ra'kholh wishes to speak with you"

"ssuaj-ha" The view screen instantly changed to Commander L'Sarz's image.

"Jolan'tru G'Hal" says L'Sarz.

"Jolan'tru" G'Hal answered.

Commander L'Sarz added, "We're about ten minutes from your coordinates. I wanted to let you know that we have orders from the Prateor to make sure we bring N'Prng back alive. It doesn't matter how many humans we kill, as long as we make sure not to hurt N'Prng"

"au'e. I'll relay the message to my crew."

The channel was quickly killed, they didn't want the Federation to overhear their plans. The B'Yton waited anxiously, it had been a while since her crew had fought a battle against the Federation, everyone looked forward to it again.

*** Ten Minutes Later***

"Sir, Ra'Kholh and S'Harien are in formation with us and are decloaking now."

"Very well, how much longer does the Federation have?" G'Hal inquired.

"Times up sir."

"Hmm... hail the Galaxy." G'Hal decided to give them one last chance.

The communications officer tried hailing, but there was no response.

"Sir, it appears the Galaxy has left the sector." The officer said

"Hnaeu!" The commander screamed. Grasping the arms on his chair tightly, the commander continued, "Very well..... plot a course to the Federation Outpost, bring us with in weapons range and open fire. Hopefully the Galaxy will return to help the station."

The bridge crew shook their heads in agreement.

"Hna'h! (Engage)" G'Hal commanded.

Captain Price sat on the bench at the far side of the cell. He was still stunned by Admiral Blair's actions. Ordering the abortion of ri'nanov N'Prng's child in order to secure intelligence information on the Romulan Empire. An uncomfortable lump formed in the Captain's stomach as he thought about it. Not because he had violated the chain of command by refusing to carry out the Admiral's orders, but because, now, in the Brig, he was completely helpless to stop the murder of an innocent new life. The defenseless baby of the Romulan woman. Lee stared out at the force field securing the entrance to his cell. A single tear rolled down his cheek. He had failed.

*********

The Warbirds Ra'Kholh and S'Harien soon joined the B'Yton. Commander G'Hal ordered the two vessels into formation behind his own ship, before they all cloaked and proceeded across the Neutral zone. Their target Outpost 53.

On the Outpost station, a very concerned Commander Harrison is informed of the impending attack.

"Commander, two more Warbirds have appeared on the Romulan side of the neutral zone!" Ensign Ho's voice was excited, quivering slightly.

"Monitor them. What are they doing?" Harrison asks.

"It looks like they are falling into formation behind the Warbird B'Yton. They..." The Ensign paused for a moment. "Sir? I've lost them. They must have cloaked!"

A look of disbelief and fear embraces Commander Harrison's face. "Battle stations!" he orders before adding, "Prepare to send out a general distress call on all frequencies the moment we establish contact with any Romulan ship on this side of the neutral zone."

"Aye Commander." The Ensign responds. The look in the Commander's eyes frightens the young officer. It's a look he'd known before. The look of someone who knows they are about to be caught up in a battle they can't possibly win. At least not alone.

**********

"Take up attack positions, here, here and here." The Romulan Commander, G'Hal said in hushed tones. The Warbirds were rigged for silent running as they slowly drifted within 10,000 kilometers of the Outpost station.

"Have Commander L'Sarz and the Ra'kholh hold position here. The S'Harien should stay here." G'Hal looks over to his sub-commander, Fewso, and asks, "Who commands the S'Harien?"

Fewso crosses his arm across his chest and bows slightly before addressing his superior officer's question. A Romulan show of respect. "Sub-Commander K'Plum Commander."

G'Hal nods. "Mnek'nra." He grunts softly.

A whisper comes from Centurion Jhadd as he monitors the tactical station at the center console of the Warbird. "Commander. We are in position."

G'Hal glances out the main view screen at the Federation Outpost station. It is no match for his force of Warbirds, and he knows it. His Romulan eyes narrow as he realizes his goal is not to destroy such an easy target, but to attack it, and hopefully, draw the USS Galaxy back to this sector of space.

"Set weapons to half yield. Target their weapon systems and defenses. Do not destroy the target. I want the humans to cry out to their comrades for help." G'Hal's tone was not as hushed as before. An evil smile twists onto his Romulan cheeks as he gives the order.

"Open fire."

*********

"Sir! three Romulan Warbirds decloaking about our perimeter! Standard triangular envelopment formation..."

Before the Ensign could finish, Commander Harrison yells, "Shields!" The protective screens are raised just in the nick of time before the first volley rocks the small Outpost monitoring station.

"They are firing. Sending out the general distress signal Commander." The Ensign transmits on all frequencies, requesting immediate assistance in defending the Station from attack.

While addressed to all Federation ships, Commander Harrison knows it is actually the USS Galaxy that is the closest Starship in the area. Before she abandoned them. "Send a direct hail to the USS Galaxy Ensign. Inform them we are under attack and request immediate assistance."

Another volley of disrupter fire rocks the tiny Outpost station, staggering everyone in Operations. The young Ensign clutches the console to steady himself before replying, "Aye Aye Commander! Sending message now."

Using a Federation distress priority channel, Ensign Ho sends out the distress message to the USS Galaxy, asking them for their help.

They were currently on their way back to Earth. She hoped to have some shore-leave on Earth. Thoughts of everything passed through her head. It was wrong to have an abortion. Didn't that Romulan know how precious life is? In Hutet only one in ten children lived to adulthood. Most babies died after being born if they were ever born. None of her siblings survived the labor camp. Her oldest brother in the camp was killed by the Cardassians; her other brothers and sister died of Orkett's disease. It was not sensible to kill an innocent.

Deiran came up to her offering a fruit drink. It was really good. She had never had anything like it. Deiran was so sweet. He asked her about Bobbie. She could tell he didn't like ferrets. He got up to leave, kissed her on the cheek, and left. The kissed surprised her. Ti put a hand up to her cheek. It surprised her but it well... felt good to be cared for again. The last two years were like hell without Robert. She decided it was time she tryed to sleep.

She did sleep for about two hours. The nightmares were still there though not as intense as before. All the sleep did for her was give her a headache. She went to sickbay to get something for her head. As she walked in, the doctor looked up. She froze. She felt the blood drain from her face and the horror rise. Robert was there. The black hair, the blue eyes, he was there. HE came towards her. Ti screamed.

"You're dead. By the prophets you're dead." She noticed then he was a bit shorter and had not quite the same nose and eye shape as Robert. She turned and ran. She went back to her quarters and crawled into the closet, where she was hidden, and cried.

"Computer, compose message to Liam Sketcher." She said.

[Proceed.] the computer stated.

"Liam, I would like to be in the poker tournament. When will it take place? It sounds like a lot of fun. Computer, end message and send."

[message sent] the computer responded.

"Computer, compose message to Lt.jg Ronni Morris." K'arta had to reply to Ronni too.

[Proceed] the computer replied again.

"Ronni, I've entered the tournament like you asked me too. I hope you're good! Computer, end message and send." K'arta smiled. She hadn't played poker for a while. It would be a fun time.

Ensign K'arta--Security Officer--USS Galaxy
Lt. Commander Shea Lorran--Security Chief--USS Freedom

"Is there something I can do for you, Admiral?"

Admiral Blair wasted no time getting to the point. "Doctor, it is the wish of this woman that you perform an abortion. Please perpare your medical staff."

Jacqueline could not move or speak for two whole seconds, and when she finally did, she could only sputter out the words.

"An abortion? Sir, abortions are no longer ALLOWED in the Federation! It goes against every oath a doctor has taken!"

"Does that INCLUDE your oath to Starfleet, Doctor?! It is vital to the survival of the Federation that you perform this procedure, and..." His voice dropped lower, the tone sounding positively furious. "...it is a direct order."

"I refuse to perform the procedure, Admiral. My first duty is NOT to Starfleet. It is to my patients, my beliefs, and my principles, and even if it is a direct order from the head of starfleet medical, the C in C or the president of the Federation, I will not perform this abortion!!!"

"Doctor, if you do not perform this procedure, you will no longer HAVE a career!" "and neither will the rest of this ship," he added quietly.

Jacqueline could feel that she was inching towards completely losing that horrible temper of hers. She took a few steadying breaths before answering.

"Sir, if you ask anyone in here, I SINCERELY DOUBT any of them would do this. It is both morally and ethically wrong, and my entire staff knows, respects, and BELIVES that. Starfleet be damned."

Sickbay fell silent for an uneasy moment, and remained that way as the tension took hold of the entire room, not even broken as Troy Blair walked in...