"Preparations"
by Lieutenant Troy Blair
Tactical Officer, USS Galaxy

*** First Officer's Conference Room ***

Troy sat at the conference table, waiting for Commander Coe to begin. He had never been in the XO's conference room, it wasn't that much different than the main conference room. Troy's mind began to wonder, but was quickly brought back by Commander Coe's voice.

" Thank you for coming people." Coe said this as he sat at his seat.

" I have asked you to come today to discuss certain issue's regarding the upcoming docking at Station Beta two. As you all are probably aware, the Galaxy will be responsible for the safety and well being of the station whilst STB2 brings their shields offline to reprogram the modulation levels. Which means we must be completely prepared to handle any possible threat that could arise. Remember, STB2 is on the frontier of explored federation space. Meaning ANYTHING could happen out there. We would be without assistance for sometime due to the fact that the closest starbase is 2 days away at maximum warp. So, I want to be prepared." Coe finished what he was saying and handed out a pile of PADDs to the officers in the room. Before he continued.

" Lt. Blair. As usual the tactical issue will be handled by you. I want you to read up on, and prepare for a conflict with all known alien vessels which could pose a threat whilst we are stationed in the beta quadrant. Coordinate your actions with OPS to gain the maximum amount of strength this ship can put forward if the time arises. Run simulations on the holodeck, the usual package. You know whats needed. " Blair nodded his head seriously.

" And contact the tactical officer of station beta two and coordinate-discuss possible threats with him, her understood?" Coe looked intently at Blair.

" Yes Sir." Blair nodded.

" Great. Now, Miss Morris, Your next............"

As Commander Coe went into the other assignments, Troy began to think about what he was just told. There was a lot to be done to prepare for any possible conflicts, and he was up to the challenge.

After the meeting, Troy returned to his office to begin his task. The first thing he did was pull up, on the computer, a list of all known hostiles in the Beta Quadrant, and their ship specs. There were quite a few, but the technical specifications of their ships, and their standard tactics should make them no match for the Galaxy, Troy thought.. Hopefully, they wouldn't have to find out if his hunch is correct.

The next thing Troy did was to contact the Strategic Operations Officer for SB2, a Lieutenant Matthew Cohen. His intentions were to obtain a more specific list of hostiles that SB2 has encountered recently.

" Computer, establish contact with Lieutenant Matthew Cohen of Station Beta 2. Use a priority channel."

" Affirmative " The computer answered. After a few minutes, the Federation insignia was replaced with a man's face.

" Lieutenant Cohen? " Troy asked

" This is him. How can I help you?" came the reply

" Lieutenant, I'm Troy Blair, Chief Tactical Officer for the Galaxy. I was contacting you, because I was wondering if you could provide me with a list of hostiles your station has encountered. So that I can prepare for any possible conflicts, in hopes of defending the station better."

" Well, I'm afraid I can't really be that much help for you. I've only been on the station a couple of months. But, I can tell you some of the incidents I've encountered since I've been here."

" Anything you can provide me with will be greatly appreciated."

" Ok, well here it goes.... Immediately prior to my arrival here, there was some trouble from a changeling. We've also been briefly attacked by Klingons, and later, Romulans after an incident concerning a Romulan Ambassador. And recently, there was a problem with our Captain, XO and CMO on Yiridia. That's about all I know of."

" Well, I don't think we really have to worry about the Klingons, since they re-allied themselves with us. The Romulans, we may have to watch for a little. But the changeling is what concerns me the most. If there's one, then there's bound to be another at sometime, plus you never know when a few Jem' Hadar ships will decide to show up. Never can be too careful when it comes to....The Dominion"

" I know exactly what you mean. I've taken measures to lookout for future changelings, and any Dominion ships in the area. If there's anything else I find out, I'll be sure to pass the information along to you."

" Thank you, you've been a great help to me" Troy said

" No problem, I'll be looking forward to your arrival. Cohen out."

Troy leaned back in his chair, rubbing his forehead with his hand. There probably won't be a problem out in the Beta Quadrant, but after hearing about the changeling he became concerned. You can never tell when The Dominion is going to pop up, or how strong it's forces are going to be. But one things for sure, he was ready to fight The Dominion to the death if they showed up. He owed it to his father for what they did to him and his crew. He got out of his chair, and headed toward the holodeck to run some drills. He had to prepare.

*** Holodeck 2 ***

" Computer, run Tactical Simulation Alpha 7. Use standard Galaxy class ship, against two Jem'Hadar Battleships."

The black and yellow grid was replaced with a controlled chaotic bridge. The red alert klaxon was going off, sparks were flying and some bodies were scattered around. A thin layer of smoke made it difficult to see clearly. After quickly assessing the situation, Troy began his counter attack.

" What's the distance between us and those ships?" The holographic captain asked.

" About 200 kilometers and closing " Troy responded

" Are they in weapons range?"

" Just barely, sir" Troy looked down at his arch. The Captain returned his attention to the front. Apparently the starship was running from the Jem'Hadar ships. There wasn't much to be done in this type of situation, except continue the present course. But then, the computer threw out a surprise.

" Captain, I'm detecting another Jem' Hadar ship on an intercept course off our Starboard Bow." An Ops officer yelled out

"He's trying to cut us off. Tactical what can we do?" asked the Captain.

"It's risky sir, but lets come about and head straight for the two ships behind us." The captain stared at Troy. "Sir, it's our only chance"

"Very well, Helm come about, head straight at the two pursuing ships."

"Aye sir."

The bridge leaned a little as the giant starship came about. It was now on a direct course at the two Jem'Hadar ships. Troy watched as the two ships got bigger and bigger on the view screen. He waited with his finger on the fire button. One of the ships let loose with a volley of phaser fire, which struck the Galaxy vessel, causing it to shake violently. Troy watched his readouts, 200 kilometers, 150, 100, 50, 25.... at 25 he fired a full volley of Photon Torpedoes and yelled for Helm to break hard to Port.

The red streaks screamed toward the closest ship, barely giving it enough time to react, then slammed into it's hull causing a ripple effect of explosions, and finally one enoroumus explosion killing the ship and it's crew. There were now two battleships left, one in front of them (badly damaged from the explosion of it's 'wingman') and the other directly behind them. With a quick turn of the Galaxy vessel, Troy was able to let loose another volley of torpedoes, causing the death of the second ship ahead of them. Which now left one target, that was firing everything it had at the Galaxy vessel.

The giant starship rocked from side to side as it took hits, trying to regain it's speed. Which dawned on Troy as a mistake, whenever your ship is trying to regain speed while a pursuing ship is closing in, you don't continue to speed up, you come to a complete stop. (A tactic his grandfather used successfully a number of times.) After a brief explanation to the Captain, the Galaxy vessel went to all stop, allowing the battleship to fly by at a high speed. Giving Troy a clear shot. He took the shot and severely damaged the battleship, but did not destroy it. Both ships were heavily damaged and could no longer fight. They drifted around, facing each other.

" Computer, end program"

" Too easy " Troy thought, " The real thing is going to be more difficult than this"

Two ensigns walked past the holosuites, taking a quiet evening stroll. Various doors were marked as in use or vacant, but they paid them no heed, ignoring the soft sounds audible through the various portals... until they reached the last. Their passage by the door was met with a loud thump, sending both scurrying, not wanting to know what had hit the door on the other side, or what that infernal racket was...

* * * * * * * *

Matthew Cohen was singing. Unremarkable enough in and of itself. The fact that the hebrew dialect the song was in, and the song itself for that matter, had not been heard in fifteen hundred years was just another of the lieutenant's quirks.

He was also swinging a war-hammer, striding through a battlefield striking out at various races in Byzantine uniforms, though the vast majority were Klingons. Dressed in medieval attire and wielding the weapon, he was joyfully belting out a Khazarian war song while he took out his various frustrations on the holographic foes, twirling the long shaft of the hammer in his gloved hands, feeling the burned flesh still beneath. It would be some time before he was physically normal again, and even longer before he would be emotionally normal.

Ops had not been so stressful, the truth be told. As he'd argued to Seles - He was fully capable of upgrading his own station, and had managed it with little problems. It was the little things, though... the lack of foresight to expect a response to spying on the Rihannsu ship. The constant warfare between himself and the Ops officer. And above it all.... his growing concern that something was wrong with his family. It had been nearly three months since his last message from his parents. Something had to give.

At that moment, another Klingon broke from the melee, charging at him. Matthew banished the thoughts of the world outside the environment, and once more the battle was joined on the shores of the Volga.

Lieutenant Matthew Cohen
Station Beta 2 Strategic Operations Officer
teej@txdirect.net

With the Romulan embassy, Seinor Ambassador Kale tr'Herrian sat and brooded, he had heard nothing from the Ghost so far. He sighed and poured him self a glass of ale, that was the down side about the espionage business, demanding constant status reports was bad practice, especialy with freelancers. No Doubt the Ghost was out there burrowing through Federation computer security, soon he would have his data and the federation would know the folly of of messing with the Rhiannsu.

......... From an obscure terminal somewere in the residential section of Beta 2 a lone figure operated a touch pad. The Ghost slowly and with infinite care wormed her way through the Federation computer security Who ever was working on computer security for this place was good, to Good, the Feds on this station were more concerend with computer security than most others she had seen, though if half the things she herd about this place were true she could see why. Patiently her work continued.........

Salvine sat reviewing the medical logs again, no one had come into Sickbay needing assistance and Commander Morris had not responded to his haiil yet but that was perfectly understandable....with the Galaxy coming and all the projects she had to coordinate it was a wonder she had time to sleep.

"Emergency Transport arrival in Main Sickbay." the computer informed him.

Salvine rushed out of his office and saw Ramone lying on a bio-bed. Instinctively he grabbed a tricorder and ran it over him. His isoplaimine levels were ten times the norm, that meant he was in telepathic overload but he would have to have had......

The tricorder registered massive amounts of hydophine in his system.....the exact drug needed to increase betazoids telepathic range and strenght. Grabbing a hypospray he inserted the counter agent into the bottom and injected Ramone with it. Slowly his isoplamine levels began to return to normal.

~He might even benefit from having his telepathy blocked for a couple of hours. It will help him rest.~

Salvine loaded another hypospray with tagit 4, which would completely dull his telepathic abilities for sixteen hours, and then gave him a sedative. What he needed right now was uninterrupted rest.

"Computer, inform me the moment Lt.Pescadeiro awakends."

"Salvine to Kilan. Please report to the Infirmary."

"I am on my way."

~I have you now "father"~ Salvine thought.

Salvine returned to his office to investigate what exactly it was that his father had given Ramone.

"Computer display the record of Lt.Pescadeiro's last visit to Sickbay."

The text appeared on the screen and according to this he recieved the counteragent to hydrophine which would have lowered his isoplamine levels to lower than normal, exactly what he wanted. Instead his father gave him something to increase his isoplamine levels ten fold, effectively sending him into telepathic shock.

"The USS Galaxy arrives at Station Beta Two"
by Captain Robert Edward Lee Price

It was several hours into Alpha shift when the USS Galaxy neared Station Beta Two.

"Captain, I'm picking up the Federation identification beacon now. We are entering Station Beta Two's sector of space." Lieutenant Ti said over her shoulder from the Helm. She looked beautiful sitting there. Still glowing since becoming engaged to Lieutenant Deiran Casey, acting Chief of Operations on the Galaxy who was sitting directly adjacent to her station.

"Very good Lieutenant." Captain Price began as he stood up from the Captain's chair. "Drop us out of warp and proceed at one quarter impulse."

Ti nods, "Aye Sir." as she pivots back around and prepares to carry out the Captain's orders.

"One quarter impulse Captain?"

Lee turns around and faces the Galaxy's Chief Tactical Officer, Lieutenant Blair. "Isn't that rather... slow sir?"

Lee smiles at the Lieutenant. "Aye. But reading through Captain Zahn's records I see he has a severe dislike for Starship commanders that buzz the station 'mate."

Blair smiles. "Then I guess that would be the prudent thing to do then Captain."

"Glad you agree Lieutenant."

Captain Price turns and watches as the Galaxy drops out of warp. Station Beta Two can be seen in the distance on the main view screen. Lee glances over to his First officer, Commander Coe.

"You have the Conn Commander." As the Captain says it he walks over to his ready room, exiting the bridge.

Commander Coe changes seats as he watches the Captain exit. This is the second time since he'd become Executive Officer of the Galaxy that Captain Price had broken Starfleet protocol and left him to command the docking of the Galaxy class Starship.

"Incoming message Commander." Lieutenant Blair called out from the Tactical station. "It's Lieutenant Seles from Station Beta Two."

Coe nodded. "On screen Lieutenant."

Blair tapped a few buttons and the image of the half Klingon Chief of Operations of Station Beta Two appeared on the main view screen.

["USS Galaxy, welcome to Station Beta Two. We have been expecting you."] Seles tone was professional, yet at the same time friendly as well. Troy smiled at her.

"Thank you. I am Commander Coe, First officer of the Galaxy. I will be in charge of the docking procedures toda

y."

Lieutenant Seles raised an eyebrow, as it is normally the Captain of a Starship that commands when a ship docks or departs from a Federation Starbase, but she didn't bother pressing the issue, letting her facial expression speak for itself.

["Very good Commander. Please proceed to Docking bay five. It has been prepped for your arrival."]

Coe nodded. "Understood. Thank you Station Beta Two. Proceeding to Docking bay five."

["Captain Zahn had asked to speak with your Captain upon arrival. Is he available?"] Again Lieutenant Seles used her eyes to relay more of a message than her words alone could carry. She was curious why the Captain wasn't handling the docking himself, but wasn't going to come out and ask directly.

"Yes, you can patch Captain Zahn through at any time. Captain Price is standing by in his ready room as we speak."

["I see. I will let Captain Zahn know you've arrived. I'm sure he will wish to speak to your Captain. You are cleared to dock on bay five whenever you are ready Commander. Station Beta Two out."]

As the channel closed, the screen returned with the giant image of the Federation space station. Commander Coe glanced around the bridge at the Alpha shift crew as they prepared to dock the Galaxy for a second time under his command.

*****

Lee stood in his ready room sipping a cup of Bajoran coffee and cream. He watched as the Galaxy slowly drifted closer to the massive, Yridian built, space station. It was an elegant design, not like anything built by the Federation. Starfleet had always opted for functionality over artistic expression. Station Beta Two was more than just an island in space. It was a work of art. Captain Price enjoyed the moment as he took in the sights, as if admiring a great painting by one of the masters.

["Captain, incoming transmission from Station Beta Two. It's Captain Zahn sir."]

Lee took another sip from his ceramic mug as he moved over to his desk. He sat and reached for the monitor with one hand.

"I'll take it in here Lieutenant Blair."

The image of Captain Joseph Zahn snapped onto the monitor.

"Captain Zahn, it's a pleasure to meet you 'mate." Lee said with a smile. His Ausy accent coming through in full.

["Welcome to Station Beta Two Captain Price. I'm glad we will be able to be of service to your ship."] Zahn was wearing his glasses initially, but as he greeted the Captain of the Galaxy, he reached and began to remove them.

"I understand we get to return the favor while your engineers perform modifications to the Station's shielding systems as well. A bit of 'tit for tat' wouldn't you say 'mate?"

Joseph smiled. It was the first time he had met the Australian Captain, known through out the Federation as "The General", because of his full name, Robert Edward Lee Price. He had heard how charming and down to earth Price could be, but this was the first time he had experienced Lee's charms first hand. He was glad to see it was true. ["You could say that. We have been planning these modifications for some time know. But we were unable to carry them out until a Starship could be stationed here long enough to offer us the protection needed while our defenses are down."]

Lee smiled back. Captain Zahn's personnel records said that he was somewhat introverted. He was happy to see that didn't appear to be the case at all. Joseph seemed quite friendly.

"Outstanding. I know that several of my officers are looking forward to shore leave and a tour of your facilities there Captain. I believe my Chief Engineer and Operations Manager have been working with your people to facilitate the repairs to the Ship."

["Yes. Chief Engineer Hanson and my First Officer, Commander Morris have been making the arrangements. I'm sure everything will proceed as scheduled."]

"Commander Morris, that would be Lieutenant Morris' older sister I presume." Lee said with a grin.

Zahn nodded. ["Yes. Kra'lana is quite excited at having her sister here to visit."] After a slight pause, Joseph continued. ["Which reminds me. I'd like to invite you and your Senior Staff to dine here tonight as guests of Station Beta Two."]

Lee blinked once. "That sounds wonderful Captain. Thank you." He thought for a moment than asked, "Do I need to make them wear their dress uniforms?"

["I'm going to make mine wear theirs. You can do what you like Captain."] Joseph leaned back and crossed his arms playfully, as if saying "you'd better..." without speaking the words.

Lee winced. "Okay, I'll get all dolled up then. I'm sure they will hate me for it, but I'll just blame you..." A smile burst out on Captain Price's face.

["That's okay. I'm telling my men it was your idea."] Zahn smiled as well, lowering his arms. ["Take care of your ship Captain. I'll expect you and your staff as my guests at 16:00 hours?"]

"That will be perfect Captain. I will look forward to it. Captain Price out." Lee deactivated his monitor and sat back for a moment. He picked up his cup of coffee and took another sip. Gazing out the observation portal, Lee could see the Galaxy was slowly using the thrusters to glide into final docking position. Commander Coe had done an excellent job docking at Starbase 123 a few days earlier. His first ever real life docking of a Starship. This was going to be easier on the Commander.

Lee sat back and enjoyed the view out of his observation window. He was trying to think exactly how he would break the news to his senior staff that full dress uniforms would be required for the dinner this evening at Station Beta Two.

Tolan arrived outside of Tatalia’s quarters. He pushed the doorbell and waited for a response.

“Enter,” Tatalia said. The door slid open in front of Tolan. He stepped through and the door slid shut behind him. “Hi Tolan, thanks for coming by,” Tatalia’s voice came from the bedroom. “I’ll be right there.” A few seconds later, Tatalia exited her bedroom, finishing wrapping her hair into a bun.

“May I ask why you invited me here?” Tolan asked as Tatalia proceeded to the replicator.

“Can I get you anything?” Tatalia asked politely.

“No thank you,” Tolan said. He waited patiently for Tatalia to answer his first question.

“Orange juice,” Tatalia told the replicator. A tall glass of orange juice shimmered into existence. Tatalia took a sip and turned back to Tolan. “The reason I asked you here is I have a business offer. Interested?”

Tolan raised his eyebrow, “What kind of offer?”

“At dinner with Ibor last night, he asked if we would be interested in opening a small business with him. I thought you might be interested in joining our little group. We are going to have to grow Earth almonds some where. After we have enough we are going to start making and selling Horchata. What do you think?” Tatalia put the empty juice glass into the replicator and it shimmered back to the nothingness it had come from.

“A very interesting idea,” Tolan said. “A homemade Earth drink may catch on. I will help if you think I am needed.”

“The more the merrier Tolan,” Tatalia said. She walked over to the door. “Come on almost time for our shift.” Tolan and Tatalia left her quarters and headed for the Promenade.

* * * *

Tatalia and Tolan entered the security office. Tim was already waiting for them. The trio signed in with the duty officer and holstered their phasers.

Chief Dawner entered the office as the trio was signing in. “Good morning Alpha-One,” he said pleasantly.

“Good morning, sir,” the trio replied.

“I have some news for you before you begin your patrol. With the arrival of the USS Galaxy in a few hours we have to double our shifts. You will be on Alpha and Beta shift with one hour between them for lunch. Hope you three had a good breakfast,” Dawner said and entered his office.

“Double duty just wonderful,” Tim said sarcastically.

“It is a reasonable precaution. With the increase of personal on board security should be increased to meet the demands,” Tolan said.

“Spoken like a Vulcan,” Tim muttered.

“We have a job to perform,” Tatalia said. “If Dawner assigns us double duty, we'll take it. Now lets go do our job.”

Tim and Tolan nodded in acknowledgment and the trio moved down the Promenade starting their normal patrol.

V: "Arrival"

***Main Operations***

Lt. Seles had stayed up all night upgrading the cloaking detection system. She was running through the diagnostics when her OPS console beeped. A Galaxy class starship had appeared on her sensors. She tapped the comm button on her panel and hailed the USS Galaxy. A few seconds later she could see the bridge crew.

"USS Galaxy, welcome to Station Beta Two. We have been expecting you."

[Thank you. I am Commander Coe, First officer of the Galaxy. I will be in charge of the docking procedures today.]

Interesting. Wonder where the Captain is. Hopefully Coe knows how to do this. The last thing the station needed was ANOTHER docking bay accident. Katarina felt fortunate that Captain Zahn hadn't thrown her in the brig yet over recent events. Yet.

"Very good Commander. Please proceed to Docking bay five. It has been prepped for your arrival."

The First Officer nodded. [Understood. Thank you Station Beta Two. Proceeding to Docking bay five.]

"Captain Zahn had asked to speak with your Captain upon arrival. Is he available?"

[Yes, you can patch Captain Zahn through at any time. Captain Price is standing by in his ready room as we speak.]

"I see. I will let Captain Zahn know you've arrived. I'm sure he will wish to speak to your Captain. You are cleared to dock on bay five whenever you are ready Commander. Station Beta Two out."

Katarina involuntarily held her breath as she monitored the docking procedures. Please, no more accidents. She had repaired two shuttle bays and one docking bay since she had been on the station and didn't want to repair anymore. She breathed a sigh of relief when the Galaxy docked safely and she tapped the comm button again.

"Seles to Captain Zahn."

[Zahn here, go ahead.]

"Sir, the USS Galaxy has arrived."

[Understood. Zahn out.]

* * * * * *

Katarina was reviewing the upcoming work schedule for the shield modifications when her console beeped. She switched to her comm panel and scrolled through her messages. She made a face at the first one. Dress uniforms. Ugh. Her frown deepened at the second one. Ramone was in Sickbay. She hoped that it wasn't serious because Lt. JG Pescadeiro was supposed to be in charge of the shield remodulation project. Katarina called for a relief Ops officer and left for Sickbay.

Lt. Seles, Chief Operations Officer Station Beta Two

Ramone woke up laying on a biobed in sickbay. The first thing he noticed was that he wasn't hearing very much telepathically. That's strange, he usually had to block it out himself, but this was not his doing. How long had he been here? How long was he unconscious?

Then Dr. Salvine was there. Scanning him with his tricorder. Ramone tried to use his telepathic abilities on the doctor, but that didn't seem to work. What did he do to me? He could just barely feel the doctor was in the room. If he didn't see him, he doubted that he'd realize the doctor was even there.

"You're going to be okay. You went into telepathic overload. I've given you a telepathy inhibitor. Right now you need rest."

Ramone struggled with that. "Doctor, how long have I been here? How long was I unconscious? What caused the overload?"

Dr. Salvine looked at him for a moment before answering. "You've been here for just over 4 hours, and you've been unconscious since your arrival. It looks like Dr. Kilan gave you something to increase your telepathic abilities instead of what he was supposed to give you. I have countered that and also given you an inhibitor. It will suppress all telepathic powers for some time so you can regain your strength."

Just then the sickbay doors hissed open and in walks Lt. Seles.

Reading over Grigg's answer Jalal thinks to himself. Glad that the lieutenant told me what he knew about the humans. With some quick work the Chief sets up the new duty rotation. Standing up he walks into the front office of security and hands a PADD to Ensign Ramos.

"Please have that posted to all security personnel. This new rotation begins with alpha shift today. And holds until farther notice. If any want anything changed have them talk to me. Thanks Ensign."

"No problem Chief. I'll have this posted right now. How's your arm doing?"

"The sickbay is very good here. It's really not that bad now. A day or so having the bandages changed and it'll be fine."

"Glad to here that."

Heading back into his office Jalal gently sits down behind his desk. Tapping a few keys on his desk he puts up a listing of equipment. Wonder which would be the best for viewing the bays? I guess I'll need to talk with the Hanson about my idea. His thoughts are interupped by Ensign Ramos tapping the door frame. As Jalal looks up Ramos says.

"Chief, the Galaxy is here and docking."

"Thank you. Have Section Adoni transported to the docking bay. No one goes on the Galaxy, who's not crew either at the station or the ship." Jalal tells him.

"Does section Adoni change equipment for this duty?"

"No, the mark IV rifles and combat armor will be alright. I'd rather they have and not use it. Then to possibly need it and not have it. Use the mobile sections during the shifts we can spare them easier."

"Consider it done Chief." The ensign says then leaves for his own desk.

"Computer record this message." Jalal tells the computer.

To: Lt. Sterner, Chief of security, Galaxy
From: CPO Dawner, Chief of security, Beta2

I'd like to welcome you to Beta 2 lieutenant. I hope you enjoy all the station's different offerings. I have assigned a security section to guard the docking bay while the Galaxy is here. Please don't take this as me believing your crew cannnot protect the ship. When we can get a chance I'd like to discuss with you about augmenting these guards with some of your security personnel. Again welcome to Beta 2.

CPO, Jalal Dawner

Salvine had made Ramone comfortable and went back to his office to check his messages.

~Full dress uniform huh? I hate those damn things~ he thought to himself as he saw the message to the senior officers.

But at the moment that wasn't his main priority....his father had never showed up and had been ignoring his hails for the last four hours. When the doors whised open salvine turned hoping to see his father but instead was greeted by Lt.Seles.

He went to greet her, Ramone needed his rest at the moment and not to be bothered by work.

"What's the matter with him?" she questioned. At this point she noticed he was asleep and opted to get her information through the doctor.

"My dear father gave him a drug that sent him into telepathic overload when Ramone asked for something to dull his telepathic senses. I have given him an inhibtor and when it wears off I am going to keep his telepathic senses dulled. These visions he was having were not normal."

Seles's demeanour remained professional but at the same time there was an air of concern about her. "Do you know when he can return to duty?" she questioned.

"I want to run some tests tomorrow and after that he can go on restricted duty tomorrow and depending on the results of the tests we will see."

"And your father?"

"He was supposed to be here four hours ago and Commander Morris was supposed to be here over four hours ago....people must have forgotten how to get here."

Seles did not like that answer.

"Computer transport Dr.Kilan to Sickbay."

A second later a shocked Dr.Kilan materialized before them.

"A Walk on the Promenade"

Ensign Shanika, helmsman and part-time lifeguard, was doing one of the things she really liked to do: teaching kids how to swim.

"Kerri, get your tummy up! Llia, big armstrokes! Good job! Now who wants to go off the diving board?"

A chorus of "Meeeeee!!"s were heard. The kids crowded around the diving board and each took their turn jumping into the pool. Finally, swim class was over and all the children went to where their parents were standing with towels outstretched. Shanika picked up all the kickboards, showered and changed back into her Starfleet uniform. She had just barely gathered up all her stuff and closed up the pool area when the computer announced:

"We are now docked at Station Beta 2."

Shanika went up to the observation lounge for a few minutes, but the whole area was so crowded with other personnel and passengers trying to get a glimpse of the station that there was no space right next to the window.

{{Hmm. Well.}} Shanika thought to herself. {{What do I do with myself now?}} She didn't dare go back to her quarters, Terris was likely to be there and would harass her as usual. She decided to go for a walk on the promenade. That was one good thing about stations; there were always interesting things to see and hear on the promenade. She walked back to her quarters, pausing at the door and hoping Terris wasn't right behind it. She entered carefully, gratefully noticing that Terris was in the sonic shower and was therefore unable to bother her. As quickly as possible, she grabbed a pad and pencil from her desk and quietly left the room. No need to push her luck. No one even noticed her as she proceeded to the airlock and left the ship. She stationed herself on a bench in the middle of the promenade, pulled out her pencil and began to sketch....

Appointment with Ash Terra. Dr. Salvine vs Kilian Dress Uniforms for dinner

Kra'lana swore, again, as the multiphasic oscillator arced, again, and singed another hole in her uniform. This was a bad time for the power relays to go down to this junction. The USS Galaxy should be docking in about . . ., make that docked 20 minutes ago, and the Clinic was supposed to open tomorrow. The medical supplies had been 'hijacked' and she had a splitting headache. Infrustration she finally threw down the oscillator and stood up. "I'm the Executive Officer of this station. I just have to have Engineering come and do this!" she said out loud to herself.

Shaking her head, she finally realised that the obnoxious noise she was hearing wasn't inside her head, it was from the computer. First was from someone named Ash Terra who wanted to speak with her. She quickly set up an appointment for tomorrow morning. Next was a series of messages from Dr. Salvine, the CMO, who said it was urgent. The next was about a dress dinner with the Senior staff. Apparently Captain Price was a stickler for protocol and wanted dress uniforms at dinner. The last was from Reix apologizing for having to leave their date early. Kra'lana just smiled. She quickly washed her hands and straighten her dirty and stained uniform. She headed for sickbay.

On her way there, she thought she saw a familar face. Suddenly she heard, " *"^^^ - ^*!+ :~* " All sound and foot traffic stopped at the sound of the high pitched speech of Delphinians when used in air. Kra'lana ran toward her sister Ronni and hugged her.

"Ronni, I'm so glad you're here!" Kra'lana said.

Right then, a Klingon woman walked up. Ronni turned and said, "This is my best friend and mutual trouble maker, K'arta." The Klingon woman smiled and grasped Kra'lana's forearm.

"Ka'pla Commander." said the Klingon woman in the Security Uniform.

"Ka'pla Lieutenant. Please call me Kra'lana. " she said with a smile. "Please join me, I'm on my way to sickbay to visit with the CMO."

K'arta followed along and said, "Didn't you used to be the Chief Medical Officer onboard the station?"

"Yes. The current Chief is Dr. Salvine. He's a very good doctor and very resourceful." Kra'lana said.

Ronni piped in and said, "So, why is the Executive Officer of the Premier Space Station in this quadrant dress so slovenly?"

Trying to look very dignified, Commander Morris said, "Because we are very short staffed and I've been trying to get a power conduit to function correctly in the soon to be opened Promenade Clinic. Frankly, I'm not very good at it. That is why I'm giving you an order to look at it."

By then, they had arrived at sickbay. Kra'lana said, "Things are always quiet here. Dr. Salvine always has things in control. As the door of the sickbay opened the three women heard loud shouting from inside. Apparrently Dr. Salvine and Dr. Kilian were having a rather heated discussion.

=/\= Lt Grigg =/\=

Grigg beat the rush caused by the arrival of the Galaxy by having a meal early, then enjoying a quick snooze before reporting to work. Alpha shift had just started, and Grigg noticed on his PADD the shift changes and the guard locations. With nothing left to do before the Bravo and Gamma shifts, he took to wandering the upper levels of the promenade. The number of hoomans more than doubled once the great ship arrived. Pausing at a window, Grigg admired the massive curves, the grand, sweeping lines, and the overall graceful appearance of the U.S.S. Galaxy. Briefly he felt a little homesick and missed hopping between the stars. He thought of his next upcoming posting to Utopia Planitia as a Marine Instructor, in little more than a few months.

Idly strolling, he was fascinated by even more colors and shapes hoomans came in. He took to leaning against the rail, just watching. One woman sat at a bench along one wall and started sketching, looking around, soaking in the scene. Spotting the Selaiian on the upper level, her eyes opened wide for a moment. Grigg wasn't sure what he should do, so he waved, a gesture he'd seen others do. After a moment, she smiled and waved back. 'No doubt', Grigg thought, 'that she'd never seen a Selaiian before.' He wanted to make it a point to wander down there and talk to her.

Kilan stood in front of Seles and Salvine, surprised to be in Sickbay.

"What is the meaning of transporting me here?" Kilan demanded.

"I paged you four hours ago and you said you were on your way. What happened to that?"

"I got distracted." Kilan said nonchalantly, this whole incident was nothing to him.

Salvine'e eyes burned with rage, assaulting him was one thing but when he began to use the crew of this station for his little games, that was another thing entirely.

"LISTEN TO ME!!!! YOU ARE NEVER EVER GOING TO PRACTICE MEDICINE ON THIS STATION OR ANYWHERE ELSE EVER AGAIN!!!!!!"

Kilan laughed, he actually laughed. This was all a big joke to the man.

"DO YOU THINK THIS IS FUNNY!!! I DON"T SEE ANYONE ELSE LAUGHING!!!!"

Commander Morris and two other officers entered at this point. Salvine was fired up and it did not look like he was going to cool off anytime soon.

"Hold it." Dr.Morris interjected.

"Dr.Kilan wait in Dr.Salvine' office." Morris instructed but it was not a suggestion it was an order.

"Now what was all that about?" she questioned.

"Ramone came in here asking for something to dull his telepathic senses so my father gives him something to heightn them to a very dangerous level."

V: "Retribution - Part 2"

Lt. Seles quietly observed the conversation between Doctors Salvine and Kilan. She didn't really know what was going on except for the fact that Kilan had attacked one of her officers. And that was unacceptable. Katarina tapped her comm badge. "Seles to Security. Please send someone to Sickbay. Seles out."

A few minutes later, Commander Morris, her sister, and a Klingon woman arrived in Sickbay. Seeing that the situation was under control, Katarina went to the back of the Infirmary to find Ramone. She spotted him on a biobed and walked over to him.

"How are you doing, Ramone?"

He looked a little groggy, but said, "Dr. Salvine treated me and he said I would be okay. He wants to keep me under observation and put me on restricted duty."

Seles nodded. "Rest up while you can. We won't be starting on the shield remodulation until the Galaxy repairs are finished anyways."

Ramone looked a little relieved. He had been wanting to work on the shields for months now and he didn't want to let the opportunity slip away. Seles said goodbye to Ramone and stopped by the CMO's office on her way out. She saw Dr. Kilan making himself comfortable in Salvine's chair with his feet up on the desk. Katarina entered the office and said in a calm voice, "Stay away from Lt. Pescadeiro or I will have you thrown in the brig." With that said, she left Sickbay to return to Ops.

Lt. Seles, Chief Operations Officer Station Beta Two

"The Fixings"
By Captain Joseph Zahn, Commanding Officer, Station Beta Two

Captain Joseph Zahn stood with Electra and Given Teer in the Officer's Mess Hall aboard Station Beta Two. The dining area would be the site of a convergence of sorts. Two Senior Staffs from two Starfleet operations would meet and eat together tonight. Joseph was wearing his open jacket uniform feeling unusally nervous. Electra suprovised her staff as they set up a traditional buffet of local and sesonal faire.

"I must thank you for helping me cater this event Miss Electra," the Mess Hall Cook said with a smile, "I am only a staff of one and I don't nearly have the food supply or connections you do."

Electra smiled back, "It's no trouble at all Given. I know how much you dispise using replicated materials. Luckily a Yridian freighter brought in some wonderful spring crops from the homeworld yesterday. I do hope the Galaxy crew enjoy Yridian food. It's not everyday starship crews get real food," the seductive Orion woman said.

"Very true. I remember my days on the Merrimac. It was a rare occassion we had a entire real meal. I guess there are advantages to living on a space station," Joseph added.

"Indeed Captain," Given said moving to help the staff.

Captain Zahn looked over at Electra, "I need to go back to my quarters to change into my dress uniform for the dinner." He leaned over and kissed her green cheek. "I'll see you latter," she said as he walked out into the corridor and into the turbolift.

"Permission Granted"
By: Dr. Jacqueline Rousseau

Chiron started to use telepathy again, but then thought the better of it. Jacquenine quickly typed something else in.

He took a deep breath, then began again.

{May I take a portion of my leave on the station?}

It took Jacqueline a few moments to process the different form of communication, and then a few more moments to think about it.

He nodded, adding a quick {Thank you,} then turned on his heel and walked out of sickbay.

She couldn't remember the last time she'd gotten some time away from the ship. It seemed like there was always some sort of emergency that kept her back in sickbay. At the end of her shift, Jacqueline had gone back to her quarters to slip into civilian clothing and pack a few things into a small pack.

She strolled to the transporter room, then took her place on the pads. Then, after giving the order, she felt the transporter take hold and the world fade away.

Dress uniforms... The bane of every Starfleet officers' existence. Some whisper that they were created by some sadistic Admiral just to let the underlings suffer... more imaginative lines say that they were made to prepare men for the possibility of having to go undercover as a woman...

Varin disliked them no matter what their intent was, and stood in front of his mirror trying to get it straightened out perfectly. All this fuss... did it honor the crew of the Galaxy any more if they wore these.... things... instead of regular uniforms? Zahn had told him it was Price's Idea... Figures... Visiting starship captains always seem to want to be honored like a hero when coming back to port...

Well... if they had been in such a battle that the Shuttle bay doors had been blown off, that would certainly warrant some kind of recognition.

The gentle chime in his quarters struck twice as a warning that there was five minutes unntil the dinner began... Varin hated to be late.

Ash was pacing outside the XO door when she got the news "Tomorrow morning!!" She screamed "That'll be too late!!" Ash paused mid-sentence her tone changed suddenly. "Actually that's ok."

She could *feel* Ghost in her mind, but there was someone else calling her. This felt strange, although it had happened many times to Ash while meditating. Her father had said something along time ago about her mother being a telepath. She ignored the mind calling her even though it was so powerful it almost made her faint.

Her hand moved to her comm badge "Ash to Morgath and Russ."

[Morgath, here]

"Morgath can you get my phaser, the sword and it's sheath which is hanging on my wall, and the PADD on my bedside table."

[Ok, I don't want to know why do I?]

"No."

[Morgath out]

[Russ, here what did you want?]

"You know this station better than anyone I know I need to discuss some things with you."

[Alright, I'm on my way.]

Russ and Morgath soon arrived. Morgath handed her what she asked for. "Thanks Morgath."

Ash deftly attached the sword and it's sheath to her back, placed the phaser and PADD in her side ho

lster.

"Russ, I'm thinking Ghost would defiantly be in the civilian quarters"

"Deck 43-51." Russ informed her.

"Alright, now which one of those is the least populated?"

"Deck 49," Morgath answered that question "they had a few problems there."

Ash smiled "Ok, now where can you get me access to a computer?"

Russ smiled "My room.....Deck 49." Ash smiled back and took two steps toward the turbolift, when her legs gave out from under her. Russ caught her before she hit the ground.

"Ash are you ok?" Ash stood herself up from Russ arms. She shook her head something, no someone was calling her but she pushed it again into the back of her head "Yeah I'm fine. Listen some thing bad is coming guys I can feel it. Go to the promenade and warn security. Tell them that the hacker won't be obvious it will be real discrete. This I have to do by myself."

"Ash.." Russ started but Ash but her index finger on his lips.

"Please..." Russ nodded. Ash close her eyes and searched out for Ghost with her mind. Ash opened her eyes gave him a weak smile, turned and ran down the corridor weaving through the shadows making her way towards the turbolift. She knew exactly where Ghost was.

"God's speed..."

"Whoa Ash! I have to get these materials to the Captain. Morgath, go with her. " Morgath nods his head and follows Ash down the corridor.

"Alright Invincible, beam the cargo to bay 13." The cargo chief said.

The crates of materials is beamed off to the station and leaves the cargo hold of the Invincible quite empty. "Tomin, I'm going to see the Captain of the station. Hold down the fort."

"I will sir."

As Russ is walking to the turbolift, he sees the USS Galaxy dock with the station. "On second thought, I'll go see the Galaxy." Russ heads off to where the Galaxy has docked.

As Russ arrives, the crew of the ship are disembarking. He looks around, trying to find someone he has known since his Academy days. He spots the Captain coming off. "Captain Lee Price. Haven't seen you in ages." Captain Price stopped to see who was talking to him. "Who are you, 'mate?"

"Why, Lee, you don't remeber me? Always the flamboyant one of our class. It's me, Russ Falkland."

Captain Price's eyes widen at the site of his good friend from the Academy days. "Russ Falkland, haven't seen you in what seem's like eternity, 'mate. Didn't hardley recognize you. What've you been up to since leaving the Academy? Still looking for a job, 'mate?" Price's eyes show the humor that he is hinting at.

"No, not anymore. Got rid of that requirement a long time ago. I own my own cargo frieghter and I make a fairly good living. Some of that stuff in the cargo bay are things that I delivered. It looks like your keeping busy yourself."

"Yea, I am 'mate. Being the Captain is pretty hard. Especially a Galaxy class ship. Well, I'll see you later, Russ. I gotta go talk to Captain Zahn. "

"Alright, Lee. See ya around. " Russ watches as Lee Price walks off.

Cohen's reflection met him in the mirror. Black boots polished, check. Black slacks pressed, check. Grey dicky beneath, check. Black gloves (his own choice, to keep his burned hands hidden), check. Red tunic....

The red tunic remained on the bed, commbadge, pips and all. It... Even after returning to Starfleet, the uniform felt wrong. A dress uniform more so. Somehow, it was more a symbol of what he'd been than anything else, a symbol of the acceptance of someone as a Starfleet officer and the sacred trust that went with it.

Of course, there was the nagging feeling that he could perhaps get out of dinner if he didn't wear it. He'd have been much happier, honestly, with being informed that the dinner would be a formal affair, and he'd have worn the black jacket he loved so much. Though.... he had as much a chance of getting out of it as he would by informing the captain that the dinner violated his dietary laws, somehow doubting that the Service would distribute a separate set of china and flatware for his use (in accordance with the laws of Kashrut, of course), even if Electra provided the proper food. Oh well.

On went the red dress tunic. Fastening the last few inches of cloth, he turned to the humming box by the replicator.

"Makh'sheva, /*Timed setting. Prepare a meal at random from Cohen's database, and store for replication upon my return.*/" And then he was on his way, to do his duty.

--So, Lt, what can I do for you?--

Chiron started to use telepathy again, but then thought the better of it. the Doctor quickly typed something else in.

--If it's easier for you to transmit your thoughts telepathically, I won't mind.--

He took a deep breath, then began again.

{May I take a portion of my leave on the station?}

Chiron saw the Doctor struggling to digest the information... Telepathy was so fast and intense... She handed him the PADD.

--I don't see why not. Just be careful. I think I may take some time off and explore Beta Two myself, but if your headaches and pain come back, I'll be there as soon as I can, no matter where I am.--

Chiron nodded, sent a {Thank you} then turned to head for the station.

Still not forgetting the ordeal of being stuck in a transporter for a week... or was it longer?... Chiron bypassed the Transporter Room, and headed for the airlocks.

***Station Beta 2, Promenade***

Chiron loved life on a starship, but it was always refreshing to have a new environment to explore. He wandered along the promenade, taking in the breathtaking vista of the Yridian archetecture.

As he was looking around, he stopped walking. He sensed the mind of someone who had studied science... 'Probably the Cheif of Science here,' He thought. 'His name... Varin Reix... on his way to.... No, I shouldn't probe minds without permission.'

Controlling his telepathy was going to be hard, now that it was so powerful, but he felt that it would happen in time. He still got some headaches from time to time, but even those were getting better. Doctor Rousseau had been quite understanding... especially after he had decimated her medical staff. He suddenly looked up. He knew how to repay her.

After Seles had left, Morris had succesfully managed to calm Salvine down.

"Now, I realize your upset but acting irrational is going to get you no where." she calmly expalined to him....she knew he was hearing her but he didn't want to.

He threw up his hands in the air. "I am tired of him Kra'll....er.....Commander, and I think it is time he left the station."

"I.......oh god the dinner is in a short time." Both officers were going to be late and that was not going to make the captain very happy.

"Morris to Security. You have a prisoner coming your way. Keep a close eye on him he is a crafty one."

"Acknowledged Commander."

"Computer, beam Dr.Kilan to security, cell alpha 1."

A shocked Dr.Kilan was torn away from his son's office and placed in the brig.

"We can deal with him later, right now both of us have to get ready to go to this dinner."

With that they both left to get ready in a record amount of time.

Ash and Morgath crept through the corridor. Ash stopped and turned around looking at Morgath she said "Sorry morgath but.." she swung and knocked Morgath clear out.

She ran further down the corridor and turned around the corner to knock straight into three Security officers.

Moments later in Beta2 brig.

"I need to talk to Lt. Jack Stracker. It's of the upmost importance!! Tell him a password. Jack-in-the-box."

The Vulcan that she was talking to continued to stare at her. "Alright, if he can spare you the time. Tolan to Jack Stracker"

[Jack Stracker here.]

"I have a young woman here in the brig who would like to speak to you."

[Is that so?]

"She told me to tell you a password. Jack-in-the-box......."

USS Galaxy
Lt. Deiran Casey
"Dress Uni’s"

Deiran stood in front of his mirror, making sure his dress uniform was in perfect condition. This was his first official dinner as acting Chief Ops, and he wasn’t about to let the crew of Beta 2 outshine him in any way. Deiran loved the way different crews were competitive with each other. But, from what the others were saying they were all nice and didn’t seem to care about competition. Deiran thought this would be a nice change of pace.

Deiran checked his hair one more time.

[You are three minutes late to meet Lt. Ti Miran.] the annoying computer voice reminded him.

Deiran ran out of his room and to the turbolift. He was on deck 4 in minutes.

When the transporter room doors opened, Miran was standing in front of the transporter console, not real happy about him being late. He walked up to her and said,"Sorry, honey, I was in front of the mirror primping and lost track of time."

Miran laughed at him. He was so honest and charming at the same time.

"Shall we go?" he asked Miran.

"Yes. I’m ready."

"Put us right at the door of the Mess Hall. Okay Chief?" Deiran said.

"Aye sir, will do," Chief Jensen punched in the coordinates of the Mess Hall entrance. "All set sir," he told them.

Deiran looked at his future wife, very few women could make a dress uniform look great, but Lieutenant Ti Miran pulled it off, she looked awesome,"Miran, you look beautiful in that uniform. It’s the first time I’ve seen you in it."

"You’re just blinded by love, I look horrible!"

They both stepped on the transporter pad. "Energize," Deiran said. And seconds later they turned into little blue molecules, going through the transporter buffer, through the transporter array and re-materializing at the entrance of the Mess Hall.

"Ladies first," Deiran said, and waited for Miran to enter the room.

As they walked in, they surveyed the room. It was decorated in a Yridian style, nice china on the table. All in all the quintessential Strarfleet banquet setting. They remained standing and waited for everyone to arrive. They were ten minutes early. As always, Deiran Casey was punctual.

"Excuse me Miran," Casey said, and tapped his comm badge,"Ensign Freeman, have you contacted Beta 2’s Ops officer on duty yet?"

[Aye sir, everything you wanted has been specified to the Ops department on Beta 2. Is there anything else sir?]

"Nope, that’s it Freeman. Casey out."

Casey was silent for a few seconds and looked at Miran. "I am marrying the most gorgeous helmsman in all of Starfleet," Casey was showering his fiancé with compliments. He couldn’t take his eyes off her in her dress uniform. He thought she looked superb. There wasn’t one other person in the room who could match her appearance, or at least that’s what Deiran thought.

They sat at a table near the entrance and waited until all the other officers were present.

"This should be a pretty, run of the mill dinner. I heard that we’ll have actual food, real, non-replicated carbon-based food!" Casey laughed.

"I’d eat a real crate, if it wasn’t replicated," Troy Blair said as seriously as he could, sneaking up behind the couple as they sat in their chairs.

"What maniac wouldn’t?" Deiran shot back at him and laughed at Troy’s reaction. He had a "who me?" look on his face.

Troy sat next to Deiran.

As he sat down, a half-Klingon woman entered the room. "Whoa, that’s the best looking Klingon woman I’ve ever seen!" Troy exclaimed.

"Not bad!" Deiran said, almost whispering.

"Troy, don’t point women out to Deiran please!?" Miran asked, half-joking.

"Sure, Miran. Well, you haven’t even taken vows and the ol’ ball in chain is already locked on and she’s thrown away the key," Troy laughed.

Miran gave Troy a look that would’ve burned Troy’s eyebrows if it was possible.

"Yea, I swallowed the key on the first date," Deiran laughed with Miran.

Troy immediately changed the subject. "Who is she? Do you know her?" Troy was acting like his usual, girl-chasing, flirting, infatuated self.

"It’s not enough you have to torment Ronni and K’arta, you have to torment Lieutenant Katarina Seles too?"

"Yea, when she looks like that, I do!"

"FYI, she’s the Chief Ops Officer, I’ll be working with her closely. I can set up a date if you want?" Deiran smiled. "Common’…I dare ya buddy."

"Let me think about it." Troy tried to look like he was thinking.

After reading the notice about the formal dinner, Jalal thinks to himself. Dinner with formal dress uniforms. Never been to one of these before. But it gives me a chance to actually wear my dress uniform. Damn, I need to go and get it. Just as he stands up, a section walks into the front office escorting a human female.

Walking into the front, Jalal asks. "What's up guys?"

"She ran into us as we came around a corner on deck 49. She had knocked out a man named Morgath."

"Alright, put her in the third cell. How about this Morgath?"

"I had him taken to the infirmary."

"We'll need a report from him about what happened. Go ahead and take her to the brig." Jalal tells the section leader. The ensign at the desk says.

"Chief, doctor Kilan is being transported to the first brig cell. We got a warning that he's tricky. I've downloaded it all on to your desk."

"Nothing all day then it all hits at once. Tricky you say. Well, I've got a answer for that. " Jalal steps back into his office. Opening a drawer he takes something from it. Then he turns and walks back into the brig area. Tapping in his code, the field of cell one goes down.

"Doctor, you get to be my first field test of my new...item." He locks one end of a long rope looking device to one end of the bunk and the other to the doctor's right arm.

"You can't hoo k me to the bed. Take this off!!" Kilan yells at the Orexian.

"Watch me. You can move around and get to everything. I tested it on myself first." With that said Jalal leaves returning the force field to it's place. Going into his office, Jalal pulls up the report on Kilan. Just as he starts, he glances at the timepiece on his deck ans suddenly remembers the dinner. Tapping a few keys, he calls nurse Blla. As her face appears on the screen in his desk, he says.

"Blla I know your off duty, but could you do me a large favor?"

"Depends on what it is."

"Could you go to my quarters and take out my dress uniform and bring it to main security?" Jalal asks politlely.

"Sure, my quarters aren't that far away from yours. I'll just need your door codes to get in."

"Hang on just a second." Jalal with a couple of key strokes unlocks his door. "It's open now."

"I'm on my way then. See you in a few." Blla says unhooking the connection.

++++++++++

Walking into Main security, Blla goes into Jalal's office. "I told you I'd only be a few." Handing him his dress uniform she turns around and closes the office door. Jalal quick changes his clothes and puts his regular one into the bag.

"Are you done?" Blla calls over her shoulder. Hearing his reply she turns around looking at the uniform. "I think you look better in your court clothes, but this is alright too. Hang on a second." She moves next to him and fixes a loose hair from Jalal's braid. "There you, perfect. What time is this thing your going to?"

"If I don't hurry, I'm going to be late. Thanks for the favor." Leaning over he gives her a light kiss. Then ducks out of the office, heading for this dinner.

Shaking her head, Blla thinks. Once I wish he'd do that and Not leave the room right afterwards. Maybe I'll have to do something about that. With a evil grin she leaves the office taking the regular uniform with her.

Chiron was on his way to a small shop, when an announcement caught his eye. Beta 2 Ops needed a shuttle pilot to test out some sheild modifications.

This was his chance to redeem himself. He looked at the name at the bottom, and set off to ops to try to find this Lt. Seles.

***Beta 2 Ops***

Chiron tapped the shoulder of the Klingon woman operating the station. She jumped slightly at the sudden touch, but then quickly regained her compsure. 'May I help you?'

Chiron cocked his head, then raised his PADD. After tapping it, he handed it to Seles. --My name is Chiron, I am the Assistant Cheif of Engineering on Galaxy, and I would like to pilot the shuttle you need. The reason for the PADD is my lack of hearing... I am currently deaf.--

Chiron looked at her intently, waiting for her response, and after she read it, she handed it back.

Liam was in Ten Forward at the bar pondering something " Computer where is the Captain?" "Captain Price is in Holodeck One" "Compose message" the computer beeped to notify him that the computer was ready":

"Captain Price, I have just recieved the latest AFL hightlight reel and game of the week from my friend on earth and I was wondering if you would like to watch it with me in the near future. Yours, Liam

P.S. If there is anyone on B2 who would like to watch this or on the Galaxy for that matter they are invited too."

"Computer send to Captain Price"

the computer beeped again and Liam turned around to serve another customer

"What'll it be?"

"Arriving at Beta 2"
by Lieutenant Joerg Sterner

After the meeting with Commander Coe and the other department heads, Joerg was left with the task of developing a defense strategy for both the Station and the Galaxy. He returned to his office and shortly after that was contacted by the Captain.

[Captain Price to Lieutenant Sterner.]

"Sterner here Captain."

[G'day Lieutenant. Chiron is being released from sickbay for inactive duty. I would like to arrange for an armed security guard escort to accompany Chiron at all times.]

"Aye sir. Will those be standing orders until the hearing Captain?"

[They stand for now Lieutenant. I want to hear back from the Counseling department on Chiron's profile since being separated from that alien. If it comes back as positive, I may rescind the order 'mate.]

"Very good Captain. I'll assign someone at once. Sterner out."

A short check with the duty roster and Joerg tapped his comm badge.

"Sterner to Enquist."

[Enquist here sir.]

"Ensign I have a task for you. Lieutenant Chiron has been released from sickbay and I want you to keep an eye on him during your duty shift. Just be sure to carry a phaser all the times, just in case."

[Understood. Enquist out.]

After finishing this conversion he wrote a message to both his assistant chiefs that they also need to arrange for an escort. He also suggested Ensign Chandler and Ensign Sanchez for this job, but the final decision was theirs.

Upon sending this message Joerg accessed the security files on Station Beta 2, for the task the Commander had given him. He worked on some holoprograms to accomplish this task. These programs included surprise attacks by different species on the station and his security team had to repel those attacks in a given time.

Till the arrival at Beta 2 all security staff had to use those programs every day and in the end their performance had increased in some degree.

The Galaxy was on her final approach to the station and Joerg busily evaluating the results when suddenly two new messages arrived at his terminal. The first one was from the Captain regarding a dinner for the senior staff of both the Galaxy and Beta 2. Captain Price ordered them all to wear full dress uniform.

The second message was from the Chief of Security from the station.

To: Lt. Sterner, Chief of security, Galaxy
From: CPO Dawner, Chief of security, Beta2

I'd like to welcome you to Beta 2 Lieutenant. I hope you enjoy all the station's different offerings. I have assigned a security section to guard the docking bay while the Galaxy is here. Please don't take this as me believing your crew cannot protect the ship. When we can get a chance I'd like to discuss with you about augmenting these guards with some of your security personnel. Again welcome to Beta 2.

CPO, Jalal Dawner

After reading this, Joerg quickly wrote a reply to the message.

To: CPO Dawner, Chief of Security, Station Beta 2
From: Lt. Sterner, Chief of Security, USS Galaxy

Thank you for your warm welcome Chief. Since we both will certainly meet at the dinner tonight, perhaps we can talk about the specific security measures afterwards. Another thing that I have to tell you before we dock is that one of our crew members, Lieutenant Chiron, recently had an encounter with an alien entity, which caused the death of several of our crew. Until the complete innocence of Lieutenant Chiron could be proven, I have a member of my security staff escort him all the time. Perhaps you could also send one of your team to escort them on the station.

Thanks

Lieutenant Joerg Sterner, Chief of Security USS Galaxy

After sending this message he once again checked with the crew manifest and duty roster of the Station's personal. He was especially fond of a certain Ensign Conner, who was like him interested in hand-to-hand combat. He hoped that he would meet her sooner or later.

**************** After docking at Beta 2, 1710 hours ****************

Joerg was in his quarters adjusting his full dress uniform for the last time. He didn't really hate to wear this one, but it felt a little bit uncomfortable. Finally he finished looking at the mirror and left for the transporter room, when he met a familiar face in the turbolift.

"Hi Andy." he just said to the Chief of Engineering.

"Hi Joe. I only hope this dinner will not last forever." Lieutenant Hutchcraft replied while looking down on his dress uniform.

The two continued to talk about the station and the repairs on the Galaxy while they went to be transported aboard Beta 2.

V: "Busy Day"

On her way back to Ops, Lt. Seles saw Lt. Cmdr. Hanson in the corridors and waved at him.

"Hi Katarina."

"Hi Tom. Thanks for having Lt. Straker run the security check on the computers." Seles knew that if there were any computer hackers around, Straker would find them.

"No problem."

Katarina turned to leave when she remembered something else she wanted to ask the Chief Engineer. "I got a call from my mom on Qo'noS. I guess the Klingon Internal Security Dept. tracked a computer pirate to Beta 2. I guess he stole some specifications on some holographic communication devices. Goes by the name of Jack-in-the-box. Know anything about it?"

Lt. Cmdr. Hanson shook his head. "Nope. Sorry. I gotta go now. See you later at dinner."

* * * * * *

Lt. Seles was standing at her OPS station running some routine diagnostics when someone tapped her on the shoulder. It startled her and she turned quickly to face a Tamarian. Odd...why doesn't he say anything. "May I help you?"

Chiron cocked his head, then raised his PADD. After tapping it, he handed it to Seles. --My name is Chiron, I am the Assistant Cheif of Engineering on Galaxy, and I would like to pilot the shuttle you need. The reason for the PADD is my lack of hearing... I am currently deaf.--

Interesting. Well, Chief Winston had wanted Ensign Pesquil to pilot the shuttle but she had been injured on the away mission to the Badlands. And Katarina wasn't all that anxious to do it herself. She tapped out a response and handed it to Lt. Chiron. --You do realize that this is a volunteer assignment, don't you? Would you be willing to make the engineering modifications to the shuttle as well? I would like to test phaser and disruptor fire if possible.--

Chiron read her response and nodded. Katarina took the PADD and continued typing. --We are testing our new redirective shielding system. The shields are designed to redirect phaser or disruptor fire back to the Threat ship and through its shields. You realize that you might take heavy hull and shield damage to your shuttle? You still want to do it?--

Chiron nodded again. Okay... She tapped some more on the PADD. --Please report to Chief Winston, our Shuttle Commander. He has set aside an old shuttle for the testing. Let me know when you have finished the shuttle modifications.--

* * * * * * *

Lt. Seles in dress uniform entered the Mess Hall for dinner with the Galaxy crew. She spotted Matthew on one side of the room and decided to try to stay clear of him for the evening. She didn't want to start a fight at dinner. As she turned to get some bloodwine, Lt. Cohen walked over to her and said hello. So much for that idea.

"Hello, Matthew." After an uncomfortable silence, she said, "So have you met any of the Galaxy crew yet?" He shook his head and at that moment a young couple walked over to them and introduced themselves.

"Hi, I am Lt. Deiran Casey and this is Lt. Ti Miran. I am Chief Ops on the Galaxy and Miran is Chief Helmsman."

Katarina smiled and said, "Nice to meet you. I'm Lt. Katarina Seles, Chief Ops and this is Lt. Matthew Cohen, our Strategic Operations Officer. I guess we will be working together over the next few days."

They chatted and Katarina noticed that there was someone staring at her. Hmm...It couldn't be because I'm half Klingon. I know they have a half Klingon officer on the Galaxy so that should be nothing new.

Katarina put it out of her mind and asked Deiran if he knew her friend Stephanie Chen. "Hmm...she wasn't on the Galaxy for very long...kinda quiet?"

"Yup, that's her."

Lt. Seles, Chief Operations Officer Station Beta Two

" An invitation to dinner."
By Commander Coe

**** First officers quarters, USS Galaxy ****

Coe eyed himself in the mirror. He made a minor adjustment to his uniform and was soon satisfied that it was straight and looking good. Next he combed his hair, doing it as he softly whistled an old klingon tune that Commander Jamson had taught him.

He looked in the mirror again. His good looks and athletic body were a gift from his father. He placed the 3 solid gold pips on his collar and for the last time, checked that his dress uniform was up to standard, before heading out the door on his way to meet Captain Price.

**** Entrance to air lock adjoining SB2 and Galaxy ****

" Hi Mate!" Captain Price said in a friendly tone as Coe neared the air lock.

" Evening Sir." Coe replied politly. Captain Price motioned forward and was soon climbing through the hatch that joined the Galaxy and SB2. The two officers exited the hatch and got their first view of the space station. A young ensign stood waiting for the duo.

" Captain Price and Commander Coe. Please follow me." Coe was impressed that the Ensign already knew his name. The ensign led the two officers through the cargo bay, where, Coe noticed, 3 freighter ships were currently being loaded with exotic foods and plants.

They entered a turbolift and were soon heading toward the stations main dining room where the two senior staffs would meet for the first time...

**** Captains dining room ****

" Captain Zahn, this is my first officer Commander Coe." Captain Price said. Coe was not sure but he felt that in Price's words, as he introduced the galaxy's senior staff, was a touch of pride. Coe shook hands with the Captain before excusing himself from the two Captains conversation. He noticed many other officers in the room that he did not know.

" Well, now is as good a time as any..." Coe said softly to himself. He approached a young Lt who did not seem to be engrossed in converstation. Perhaps he could discuss strategy.

" Hi. Im Commander Coe, first officer of the Galaxy." He intorduced himself formaly.

" Lt Seles." She smiled the response.

" So Lt, whats your specialty?" Coe added with a hint of cheek....

Chris N
AKA: .Commander Johnathon Thomas Coe
First Officer, USS Galaxy Email Sim NCC-70637
Indentification: Foxtrot delta 769

"Meetings"
written by Ensign K'arta, Security Officer

Ronni, K'arta, and Ensign Harris were relaxing after their shifts in Ten Forward when K'arta noticed Captain Price enter. He received his drink from Liam then turned and surveyed the room. He spotted the trio and Ronni motioned him over.

The captain joined them at the table. Harris looked as if he was about to be forced to eat gagh, the Klingon delicacy. Ronni and K'arta shared a smile about that and continued talking to the captain.

Captain Price was suprised to learn of their conversation topic, Deiran and Miran's engagement. K'arta was happy that the two had finally gotten together.

Ronni and K'arta were having a good time teasing Harris. His nervousness wasn't something that was new to them, but they had grown out of it. In time he would too. The captain looked as if he was several light years away while they were teasing Harris.

"Is everything okay Captain?" Ronni asked.

Price smiled at Ronni. "Fine Lieutenant. Just thinking of all the things that need to get done is all."

"You need to relax more Captain." K'arta explained. "Our last few missions have been quite hectic. It's times like these when one should rest and enjoy life!" Harris gave the half-Klingon a dumbfounded look, like he couldn't believe that she had given the CAPTAIN advice on how to relax. K'arta just smiled and raised her mug to her friends as a signal to drink to relaxation. They clinked their glasses together and drank.

"Good advice Lieutenant. I'll have to keep that in mind." Lee responded then looked over at Ensign Harris. "You don't speak very much, do you Ensign?"

Michael looked like he'd just gone on stage in front of thousands of people stark naked. He sputtered an answer and looked to the two women for help. That was all it took to cause the three to laugh. As he realized that he was being picked on he didn't look to happy.

"Don't worry Ensign. Once you make Lieutenant, you'll realize how much fun it is entertaining new officers." Captain Price reassured him.

Michael finally smiled. "Yes sir. I'll look forward to that."

The four talked for a while longer and Harris began to relax in the presence of the captain.

* * * * *

After the Galaxy docked at Station Beta Two, it wasn't too long before Ronni hunted K'arta down again. She arrived at the Klingon's quarters right before K'arta's alarm was due to go off.

"Geez, Ronni. What are you doing here?" K'arta said rubbing her eyes.

"Come on! Get up, lazy. I want you to meet my sister." She said poking K'arta in the ribs.

"Go away. I'm trying to sleep." K'arta tried to brush her friend off. Just then her alarm rang. She shut it off and glared at the Delphinian. Ronni just smiled.

"Give me a minute to get dressed." K'arta finally acquiesed.

She grabbed her gold uniform and went to the bathroom to get dressed. She returned to find Ronni looking at one of her pictures.

"Who's this?" Ronni asked, holding up the frame.

"That's my horse Sandstorm." K'arta said proudly. "I still have to take you riding on the holodeck don't I?" she added.

"Yes you do, but first you have to meet my sister." Ronni set the picture back on the table and grabbed K'arta's arm and led her out of the room.

They arrived in the bustle of a typical space station. K'arta fell a little behind Ronni as she took in some of the sights. All of a sudden she heard the high pitched voice of her Delphinian friend. She looked ahead to see Ronni hugging another Delphinian. The Klingon approached as the two disengaged.

Ronni turned to introduce K'arta. "This is my best friend and mutual trouble maker, K'arta."

"Qa'pla Commander." K'arta smiled as she grasped the Commander's forearm. She could see the family resemblance in Ronni's sister.

"Qa'pla Lieutenant. Please call me Kra'lana. " she said with a smile. "Please join me, I'm on my way to sickbay to visit with the CMO."

"Didn't you used to be the Chief Medical Officer on board the station?" K'arta asked, trying to remember.

"Yes. The current Chief is Dr. Salvine. He's a very good doctor and very resourceful." Kra'lana answered.

Ronni piped in and said, "So, why is the Executive Officer of the Premier Space Station in this quadrant dress so slovenly?"

K'arta smiled at Ronni's teasing of her older sister. Commander Morris attempted to regain her dignified composure to answer her younger sibling.

The trio arrived at sickbay and heard a rather loud argument. Kra'lana informed them that sickbay was usually fairly quiet. They entered to find two doctors having words. K'arta stood back and watched the commander handle the situation. She noticed another Klingon woman who left shortly after the trio arrived. K'arta watched with curiosity as the situation was diffused and one of the doctors was transported to the brig.

They left sickbay and K'arta glanced at her chronometer. Her shift would begin soon.

"Unfortunately, I must go. My shift starts in 20 minutes. It was very nice meeting you, Kra'lana." K'arta felt a little wierd calling a superior officer by her first name, but decided that it was okay. "See you later, Ronni." K'arta said in parting.

"Find me after your shift. Let's do something tonight, OK?" Ronni said as K'arta was turning to go.

"Sure. Will do. See you!" K'arta said over her shoulder. She headed for an area where she could transport back to the ship with no difficulty.

Lt. Chanor was pulling another Gamma shift on the Galaxy, whilst all the senior officers where out in full dress uniform eating. He'd heard that there was going to be real food, something he'd not had in ages, and would have liked to have gone. However, he wasn't ranked enough and spent the entire shift filling out reports and making sure everything was in order. Lt. Quall was checking on a couple fighting down on deck 8 at the moment, Ensign Taylor was with Lt. Chiron, and that left Ensign Sanchez with him in security.

He spent a few moments relaxing, then got down to the next matter, leaving a note for lieutenant Sterner.

------------------------------------------------------
To: Lieutenant Sterner, Chief of Security
From: Lieutenant JG Paran Chanor, Assistant Chief Gamma Shift
Re:

Sir,

With the ship docked at Station Beta 2, will any of the security arrangements change? The current situation is that the stations shields will be down for some weeks whilst the refit is done, and that means the Galaxy is the main defence of the station. If so, will any security officers from the Galaxy be posted to the Station to augment it if any hostile force is encountered, or will the reverse be true, so that the Galaxy has enough security to deal with any threat from external forces before they reach the station? Thanks.

---------------------------------------------------------

He finished up his message, reread it. Realised it was a bit blunt, and so liked it, and sent it off.

Lt. JG Paran Chanor - USS Galaxy

Chiron turned to leave. Lt. Seles had been very kind to him, even after he had scared her a tad... Spooked Klingons are usually the ones to get you dead. He thought about the mission Seles had outlined. An older shuttle, redirective fire that would pass through his shields, injuring himself. It didn't sound like the ultimate mission, but someone had to do it. This station was on the edge of Federation space, and they needed some new technologies.

As the Tamarian headed down toward the shuttle bays, he sensed a mind that was concentrating on on his position. Chiron turned, and saw Ensign Enquist watching him from the second promenade level. Evidently Galaxy Security was still a little leary of him. He proceeded to the turbolift, tapped the panel, and the lift carried him through the bowels of the station to the main shuttle bays.

***CPO Winston's Office***

"Well, if ya ask me, the whole mission is bloody risky... Ah, hell, that's right, ya can't hear me..."

Winston grabbed a nearby PADD.

--What are your qualifications, young man?--

-+I am Assistant Cheif Engineering officer of the USS Galaxy, and I have completed Starfleet level 5 shuttle piloting skills.+-

--Why aren't you a helmsman, boy? That's great! Any problems I should know about?--

Chiron drew a deep breath before typing again.

-+I am currently undergoing psychiatric evaluation after an alien being entered my mind and took over.+- Chiron was about to hand over the PADD, then he quickly added something else.

-+I am the one who caused the damage to Galaxy's Shuttle bay doors.+-

Winston looked over the PADD, and then grimaced when he came to the part about the bay doors. --Well... you've got the marksmanship for the project... How long before you're back in active duty?--

-+It shouldn't be more than a day or two. Do I have the Shuttle cheif's permission?+-

Varin entered the room where everyone was assembling for the dinner. Some familiar, some not... He noticed a human and a Bajoran sitting on the opposite side of the table, smiling, and holding each others' hand. ::Must be married... or about to be...:: Then he saw the Captain of the Galaxy. He leaned over to a Galaxy crew member sitting next to him, 'I was told your Captain Price wanted us to dress up...' He looked at the man's collar, 'Lieutenant...'

"Hutchcraft, sir, Andrew Hutchcraft, Cheif Engineer... and I was told your Captain Zahn wanted us to dress up."

'Ah, the deception of captains... How long have you been Chief of Engineering? You don't seem like the engineering type.'

"Only a few weeks, I used to be the Chief of Security."

'Quite a job change...'

"May I ask your name, sir?"

'Certainly, I am Varin Reix, Chief Science Officer... Well... looks like someone proposed a toast, and far be it from me to go against a toast...' Varin rose his glass, then took a drink. Perhaps this won't be so bad after all...

'Anyway, Andrew... How has the Galaxy been treating you?'

Stepping onto the lift, Jalal turns waiting for the doors to close. "Deck 35 please."

"On the way, Chief." the computer voice replies.

It's still strange talking to thin air. Would you Stop itching arm. I shouldn't complain Cohen was burned worst then I was. And now this doctor is going to learn about my two fingers being able to grow back. Why doctor's are Soo interested in that I'll never understand.

As the lift stops and the doors open Jalal steps out. Walking up to the enterance he waits for a second. Taking a deep breath, slowly letting it out he steps past the door into the dining room. Glancing slowly around he notices two groupings of people. For a second he waits, then moves towards the group of people he knows.

"Lieutants." Jalal says as he comes up to Lt. Cohen and Seles. "How are things going?"

USS Galaxy: "Visiting friends"

Ensign Thomas Enquist was happy to be able to see his friend, Jack Straker. Now that the Galaxy has docked, he went to his superior officer to ask for a few hours shore leave.

Thomas entered the Security center and walked up to the boss. "Sir, I request a few hours shore leave to meet a friend of mine, a resident of this station."

Joerg Sterner looked up to see one of his junior officers standing in attention, with an eager expression on his face. "At ease. So, who’s this friend of yours?"

Thomas relaxed and answered with a smile. "He is a computer engineer on this station. His name is Jack Straker, and he is a Lieutenant jg. We are friends since we were at the Academy together. I have challenged him on a game, and wants to make sure that he takes it."

Joerg Smiled. "Yes, I’ve heard about him since we arrived. Isn’t he a little strange?"

Thomas shrugged. "Yeah, some consider him offensive and driveling, but he as excellent computer technician, and he may be a little… eccentric."

Joerg laughed, "Well, that’s what I heard to. Ok, You got four hours leave, to meet your friend, but be back to finish the reports by tomorrow, You can waste your time with your friends when your chores are done."

Thomas snapped off a salute. "Thank you sir, I will."

He left the room, and went to his quarters to pick up his duffel bag. He then walked to the causeway, leading into the station. He walked up to the security guard with the Shore Patrol badge on him. "Hold it, Ens Enquist, aren’t you on duty today?"

Thomas smiled. "Check your log, friend. You will find that I has four hours of shore leave to waste away with the inhabitants on the station."

The Duty Guard looked into his console. "Hmm. I don’t know how you pulled it of, but if you’re not back here within the stipulated time, I’m going to find you and drag you back onboard. And say hello to any nice girls for me. They will need something better after meting with you."

Thomas laughed. "In your dreams, sport. I will be warning them from you!"

Thomas laughed all the way into the station.

Well inside, he did not know where to go. He decided to look for a terminal. "Computer, locate Lieutenant jg Jack Straker, Engineer."

The computer beeped a happy tune. [Lieutenant jg Jack Straker is currently in his quarters. Follow these instructions to his room.] The computer displayed a map of the station and marked the way to deck 34. Thomas memorized them, a strolled away with a happy smile.

The station was a strange mix of new and old. There seemed to have been extensive damage on the station, and the repair has just been finished. In the corridors and by the various shops and stores, lots of strange races mingled. Thomas wished he brought his phaser with him, but he followed the regulations strictly. ‘No side arms when not on duty’. He walked pass the hawkers and steered his way toward the main turbolift section, no meaning to risk a lesser used lift. Suddenly, a woman’s scream echoed down a side passage.

Thomas looked in, and saw two big brutes manhandling a human female in through a door to a warehouse. Thomas looked around, to see if there were a security officer on duty, but there were no one around. Thomas made a quick decision, he was going to help the poor woman. Thomas sprinted into the side passage, and dropped his duffel bag outside the door.

He burst in, and found himself surrounded by a team of Romulans in civilian clothes, they held their disruptors aimed at him. "Welcome, officer. We have been waiting for you."

Thomas reacted by throwing himself at the door, but it was closed behind him.

"Take care of him, we have some use of this one." The romulans obeyed their leader, and fired their disruptors on him.

The world went dark……..

"Formal Affair"
Lieutenant Troy Blair
Chief Tactical Officer, USS Galaxy

*** Troy's Quarters ***

'Geez...these things must have been designed by a Romulan bent on choking Starfleet to death!' Troy thought as he put on the tunic to his dress uniform. Looking at himself in the mirror, he made a few last second adjustments and headed out the door.

As he walked through the corridors, on his way to the airlock, he noticed that everyone was staring at him. At first he thought it must be the dress uniform, since the crew hardly gets a chance to wear them, he ignored it and stepped into the turbolift.

About half way into the trip up, Troy realized that he wasn't alone in the turbolift, and that the other occupant was staring at him.

"What?!?!" Troy exclaimed throwing his hands out in front of him

"Nothing sir.... are you ok?" the Petty Officer asked

"Yes I'm ok, well except for the fact that everyone keeps staring at me!" His mind began to race with thoughts of something he forgot to do, but he couldn't figure out what.

"Oh..ok, just checking." she said. The trip continued with silence, until Troy noticed the Officer was still staring at him.

"WHAT IS IT?!? Is there something I overlooked?" He felt like he was going crazy.

"No sir...well sir, you look like you're about to pass out or something. Here look" the Petty Officer stated as she produced a mirror and handed it to Troy.

Troy noticed that all the color had left his face, and his eyes were practically bulging out. He had heard that dress uniforms were annoying and slightly choked it's victims, but he had no idea they made you look like this. He handed the mirror back to the young lady traveling with him, and tried to adjust his collar with little success. He was about to try again, but the turbolift stopped on his floor. As he approached the airlock, he saw Captain Price waiting next to it.

"Are you ok 'mate?" Price inquired

"Yes sir, except for the fact that I'm slowly dying by this thing" Troy said still adjusting his collar.

"Your collar is too tight 'mate. Here let me show you a trick I learned along time ago." Price began to adjust Troy's collar, instantly he felt the color come back.

"Thank you sir, I can breathe again! I'll see you at the dinner" Troy said while stepping through the airlock

"See you there Lieutenant"

*** Officers Mess Hall ***

Once Troy stepped through the door, he instantly scanned the room for anyone he knew. He found Deiran and Miran setting next to each other at the table, engaged in a conversation. He headed in their direction

"This should be a pretty, run of the mill dinner. I heard that we’ll have actual food, real, non-replicated carbon-based food!" Casey laughed.

"I’d eat a real crate, if it wasn’t replicated," Troy said as seriously as he could, sneaking up behind the couple as they sat in their chairs.

"What maniac wouldn’t?" Deiran shot back at him and laughed at Troy’s reaction. He had a "who me?" look on his face.

Troy sat next to Deiran.

As he sat down, a half-Klingon woman entered the room. "Whoa, that’s the best looking Klingon woman I’ve ever seen!" Troy exclaimed.

"Not bad!" Deiran said, almost whispering.

"Troy, don’t point women out to Deiran please!?" Miran asked, half-joking.

"Sure, Miran. Well, you haven’t even taken vows and the ol’ ball in chain is already locked on and she’s thrown away the key," Troy laughed.

Miran gave Troy a look that would’ve burned Troy’s eyebrows if it was possible.

"Yea, I swallowed the key on the first date," Deiran laughed with Miran.

Troy immediately changed the subject. "Who is she? Do you know her?" Troy was acting like his usual, girl-chasing, flirting, infatuated self.

"It’s not enough you have to torment Ronni and K’arta, you have to torment Lieutenant Katarina Seles too?"

"Yea, when she looks like that, I do!"

"FYI, she’s the Chief Ops Officer, I’ll be working with her closely. I can set up a date if you want?" Deiran smiled. "Common’…I dare ya buddy."

"Let me think about it." Troy tried to look like he was thinking. Of course he didn't have to think about it, his mind was already made up the second Deiran suggested it. He began to look at Lieutenant Seles, actually more like stare at the Lieutenant. (If Ronni was there she probably would have slapped him for drooling.)

"Good thing Klingons aren't telepaths..." Troy whispered to himself, but was still loud enough for others to hear.

"You got that right Troy" Deiran commented, "Tell you what, I'm going to go talk to her right now"

"Wait a minute...I can...Hey! Deiran...." Casey was already next to the half Klingon talking to her. There was nothing more Troy could do.

"Great...now she's going to think I'm some young teenager who doesn't have the guts to speak for myself." Troy shrugged it off and decided to thank Deiran later, if it went well.

"All Your Eggs in One Basket"
by Cmdr. Kra'lana Morris

As Dr. Salvine headed to his quarters, Commander Morris turned to Lt. K'arta and Lt. Morris. "I'm sorry, but I have to run too to get ready for this dinner. If you're looking for a good place to go,

I would recommend Club Spectrum or the Latnium Palace. Have fun!!"

***************************************************

Kra'lana turned and hurried to her quarters. The dinner was to begin in about 15 minutes. She hurried and showered and got dressed in her dress uniform. She was still shocked by the red of Command rather than her Blue for Sciences. She had worn the Blue for her entire Starfleet carreer, but this also felt right.

She hurried down to the party, still thinking about Dr. Kilan. He was up to someting more than just giving the wrong medication to someone. But what . . . . .

As she entered the party, she saw Captain Zahn talking with Captain Price and Commander Coe. She walked toward the group and put on her best smile.

Captain Zahn smiled and said, "I wasn't sure you were coming. Captain Price, I would like to introduce you to my first officer, Commander Morris. Commander, this is Captain Price and Commander Coe."

Both of the USS Galaxy officers shook her hand and said hello. "I am pleased to meet you. I hope my sister, Lt. Morris hasn't given you too much trouble."

Commander Coe spoke up and said jokingly , "Nothing that we can't handle."

When it came time to be seated, Kra'lana found herself seated next to Varin Reix, and across the table from Dr. Jacqueline Rousseau.

"Dr. Rousseau, I have to say that I am very impressed with your Neurological studies and findings. I studied them while I was at Science Center Sarek. "

The conversation continued and it was wonderful. The only thing that was bothering Kra'lana was Dr. Kilan and what he was up to and the danger of the two sets senior officers being all together in one place . . .

"People Old & New"
by Lieutenant Andrew Hutchcraft

Waking up from his slumber, Hutchcraft remembered what had been planned for today. The USS Galaxy had finally arrived at Station Beta 2. Andrew was very excited. He had never been on a starbase before, at least not physically. He usually stayed on board the vessel.

The journey had been a long one, with several stops along the way. Hutchcraft got up, and opened his closet. The dreaded Dress Uniform sat there, waiting to be worn.

Like all self-respecting officers, Hutchcraft hated the Uniform. Yet it did seem to make a change from the uniform he usually wore. He added the uniform to his body, and prepared for the day ahead of him

---------------

After walking only a small distance away from his quarters, Hutchcraft rang the door bell of a former mentor. The door was answered by his previous Commanding Officer.

"Hey Andy, do come in!" came the voice of the Austrian. Hutchcraft smiled at Joerg, and entered the room.

"You ready yet, Joe?" he asked, still getting to grips with the large, open spaces that came with Senior Officer quarters.

Joe neatened himself up a little bit more "Almost, Andy. You looking forward to your first senior-officer dinner?"

Hutchcraft thought for a moment ... "Not really" came an apathetic reply.

"Thought now" smiled Sterner. The Chief Security Officer finished neatening himself. "Shall we leave for the Station, Hutch?" he asked.

"I've been on this ship since the Borg incident .... please, let's go ..." Andrew quickly replied.

Hutchcraft and Sterner then left the room, and made their way to the transporter room.

---------------

The room was full of them. Men and Women in horrid, dress uniforms. At least duty uniforms looked slightly nicer than the dress. Andrew looked around. A lot of the people in the room he already recognized. Some of them were even friends. A few were almost the oppos ite.

The other officers were an interesting looking bunch. Trills, Delpharians, Half-Klingons .... many strange races. One in particular stood out. Hutchcraft could not figure out what type of race it was.

"What kind of creature is that?" Hutchcraft muttered to Sterner.

"That's an Orexian, Andrew. Stay on the right side of him. In other words, do not get drunk. Myself or K'arta or Paran will let you go if you do something like that here. He probably won't" answered Sterner. Hutchcraft was suddenly filled with a mild fear for the creature. Though getting drunk on a space-station probably had it's upside. The bartenders probably don't have too much ethics, unlike the one on the USS Galaxy.

Hutchcraft took a seat by Sterner and a Trill Science Officer. Andy had met few Trills before. One had been Shtik's near-wife, D'tarna. Though she really did not count, being half-Vulcan.

The Trill motioned towards him "I was told your Captain Price wanted us to dress up... Lieutenant"

The Trill made a look at Andrew's rank. Hutchcraft could clearly see the Trill's. Lieutenant Commander. He swallowed any saliva in his mouth. "Hutchcraft, sir, Andrew Hutchcraft, Chief Engineer... and I was told your Captain Zahn wanted us to dress up." Hutchcraft responded. 'Dress up .. heheh' thought Hutchcraft to himself.

"Ah, the deception of captains..." continued the Trill "How long have you been Chief of Engineering? You don't seem like the engineering type."

Hutchcraft laughed inside his head. Engineering type ... Hutchcraft was barely the Starfleet type. "Only a few weeks, I used to be the Chief of Security."

Sterner made a look to him, and smiled. The Trill was quite talkative "Quite a "job change...'

Hutchcraft nodded "May I ask your name, sir?"

"Certainly, I am Varin Reix, Chief Science Officer... Well... looks like someone proposed a toast, and far be it from me to go against a toast..." Varin rose his glass, then took a drink. Hutchcraft did the same. He felt sick ... any wine-like drink was not for Hutchcraft's tongue. But it just didn't seem right drinking whiskey at such a senior event. Nor would orange juice or any ale.

"Anyway, Andrew... How has the Galaxy been treating you?" spoke Varin.

"Not bad ... it's my first ship. I came here as an Ensign, about six months ago. I think between myself, Blair ..." Hutchcraft moved his head towards the Chief Tactical Officer, and then to Casey and Ti... "... and the to-be-weds we've broken a few promtion records"

Varin nodded. "So how long were you Chief Security Officer" he asked, inquisitively.

Hutchcraft slightly panicked. He had slightly lied about that one fact. "About a week" he answered, truthfully. He grinned. "In fact, I was on duty when Lieutenant Chiron smashed through the shuttle bay door"

Varin laughed. "That is not a smart thing to do, breaking through a shuttle bay door"

Hutchcraft chuckled, and sipped some more of the sickly-sweet wine that was in his hand. "Well he was possessed by an alien at the time ... he is fine now, by the way. He's deaf though, at least for the moment. He's my Assistant Chief, you know?"

"Sounds appropriate..." commented Varin "So who is Chief Security Officer, usually?"

Turning his head to the Austrian next to him, Hutchcraft replied "Lieutenant Sterner..."

Joerg moved his head to Hutchcraft and Varin. "You say something, Andy?" queried the Lieutenant.

"Yeah, Joe. Lieutenant Joerg Sterner, meet Lieutenant Commander Varin Reix" As Hutchcraft spoke, the officers shoke hands.

"Reix, where have I heard that name... I remember there being a Captain with a similar name ..." Joe thought our loud.

Varin shrugged. "No one I know, Lieutenant..."

The dinner continued, and Hutchcraft seemed to enjoy the small, select social occasion. As the officers talked, Andrew focused on the other officers. He was still worried about the huge Orexian officer. He made a note to not cross the officers path. If he was to cause trouble, he would stay out of Security's way.

Hutchcraft took another sip from the foul liquid, and continued with the evening.

Captain Elitia, CO of the USS Sovereign Sim
Lt.Hutchcraft, USS Galaxy

"First Course"
Written By Captain Joseph Zahn Commanding Officer, Station Beta Two

Joseph stood with Kra'lana in the Mess Hall. Mister Teer and Electra had done a beautiful job with decorating and preparing the meal. Captain Zahn and Commander Morris were both wearing their dress uniforms. Joseph's uniform was adorned with a few rustic-looking medals. He didn't like wearing them. It felt like putting them out on display. He wore his sqaure-shaped glasses, trying to go for a sophistacated look. It was Electra's idea. The Orion Froom walked by holding a platter of hor'dours.

"Thank you," Kra'lana said grabbing a Yridian sauce cracker.

Captain Zahn smiled as he watched the blue-skinned woman inhale the oval shaped creamy appatizer. She finshed the bite and looked up at Joseph.

"I'm sorry. It's just with working on the Promenade clinic I haven't gotten a chance to sit down and have a real meal. I'm really starved. I haven't eaten a bite at all today," she said.

Joseph broke his silence, "Don't apologize Kra'lana. I understand completely. At least now we can sit down to a terrific meal, even though it is with a bunch of strangers."

She nodded thoughtfully and noticed Joseph's medals out of the corner of her eye, "Captain, what did you . . ."

Just then Captain Edward Price of the USS Galaxy approached the duo holding a glass of Tula Berry Wine. "Good evenin' Cap'n Zahn!" the Aussie said with a bright smile. Morris paused what she was saying as Zahn held out his hand. "Good evening to you Captain Price. Welcome to Station Beta Two. I'd like to introduce to you Commander Kra'lana Morris, Ronni's sister."

"Pleasure," she said shaking his brusqe hand.

"Captain Zahn, this is my first officer Commander Coe," Price said standing next to his right-hand-man.

"Nice to meet you Commander," Joseph replied, "I hope the Galaxy will enjoy it's five week stay here aboard Station Beta Two. I am sure we will be great assets to each other both," he said politely.

"Indeed 'mate!"

Suddenly a large chime sounded from the center of the room. It was the Mess Hall Cook Given Teer holding a Ornanian chime-bell. "Dinner is ready! Please take your seats at the table. You'll be enjoying a wonderful Yridian tossed salad and a traditional Yridian buffet with a few Terran seasonal items thrown in for good measure. The main course will be served a la buffet. Enjoy!"

Matthew Cohen sighed from across the room.

The officers began to be seated at the long elabrolately decorated table. Given intercepted Lieutenant Cohen, the Strategic Operations Officer, before he took his seat. "Don't think I forgot you Lieutenant. Miss Electra informed me of your preference. I took the liberity of preparing a Kosher meal for you."

Cohen cracked a half-smile, "Thank you very much Mister Teer."

"Guess Who's Coming to Dinner"
by Jonathan Hanover

Lt. Clay dreadded putting on his dress uniform. He had no problem with the senior staff of the Galaxy eating dinner, but why did they have to eat with him? The uniform looked like a skirt. Sure, he hadn't been on the station for long, but this wasn't the look he wanted everyone to remember. Martin would repel of the side of the cliff, but he wasn't going to wear a skirt.

Lt. Clay finally finished dressing and headed towards the dinner. He heard some guy yell "Nice legs!" and turned around to teach him a lesson. Unfortunatly, he found this person to be more than a foot taller than him. Clay turned around and headed for the dinner.

Jonathan Hanover

Varin turned from Hutchcraft, the conversation appearing to be over. He began to eat, then sensed the presence of someone near him. He turned to his left, and found that Kra'lana took a seat right next to him. ::She even looks good in her Dress Uniform:: he noted.

'Well, Ms. Morris, It seems that we got our dinner after all.' He looked across the table, and subtly pointed to another woman, apparently Delphinian, too. 'Your sister?'

She swallowed her food, "Yes, her name is Rr'lonni... would you like to meet her?"

'Of course.'

USS Galaxy
Lt. Deiran Casey
"Introductions"

Deiran and Miran got up from their chairs and started for Lt. Seles. Deiran liked that Miran was jealous and protective of him and smiled as he thought of it.

"Lieutenant Seles?" Deiran asked as he walked up to her.

"Yes, Lt. Casey, right?" Seles asked.

"Yes, Chief Ops on the Galaxy and this is Lt. Ti Miran, my fiancé, she’s the Chief Helmsman on the Galaxy."

"Nice to meet you both. Do you know my friend Stephanie Chen, she was an Ops officer on the Galaxy?"

"Quiet girl, shy, hardly ever speaks?" Casey replied.

"Yep, that’s her."

"Yes, I only knew her for a short time. I believe she transferred to the Crusader."

Deiran noticed that Katarina was noticing Troy staring at her.

"Lieutenant that man staring at you, happens to be Lt. Troy Blair, he’s the Chief Tactical Officer on the Galaxy. He’s very attracted to you, he wanted me to fix you up with him on a date while we’re visiting your station. Would you be interested?"

Lt. Seles didn’t respond right away, she looked in Troy’s direction and then back at Ti and Casey.

"And whatever you do don’t talk to Ronni Morris or K’arta about Troy. They have a jaded view of him. He’s a nice guy actually. Besides one little date couldn’t hurt, right?"

Lt. Seles smiled at Deiran,"It all depends on what kind of date it is Lt. Casey."

As Lt. Seles responded a bell rang, ricocheting through the room and commanding everyone’s attention. Everyone looked in the direction of the Chef, his name was Teer.

Dinner was ready he said, and the officers took their seats. Miran and Deiran sat next to one another. Lt. Seles sat across from them. Hutchcraft and Sterner were just a few chairs down. Troy wanted to sit next to Deiran, but was beaten to the chair by Commander Morris. Instead, he took the seat next to Lt. Seles.

Deiran smiled. He knew Troy would eventually get his nerve back and talk to her. Not that he ever lost it.

Deiran liked joking with him. Deiran knew Troy could ask her out himself, but Casey always loved to rib Troy. It was fun.

Deiran didn’t feel like talking about duty or repairs and for some reason was too quiet during dinner. Something wasn’t right. It wasn’t the officers or anything, the Beta 2 staff were good at their jobs and nice people. It was the station.

Deiran had almost a sixth sense and could feel when something wasn’t quite right. He could sense it in the atmosphere. Everything was fine in the Mess Hall. Outside of the Mess Hall…was what concerned Deiran.

This station was on the outer reaches of known space, and a dangerous place. Deiran just couldn’t put his finger on what was bothering him. But, something was wrong and he knew that whatever it was, ‘it’ was coming… like when you’re in the eye of a hurricane and just beginning to come out of it. An eerie quiet and then…

Deiran tried to enjoy the first real food he’d had since visiting his parents on Earth months ago. But, his premonitions wouldn’t subside. And so he sat at the table in silence, eating his Yridian salad, drinking his Vulcan tea and staring at his future bride...and waited for the inevitable.

"Close encounters of a different kind"
by Captain Robert Edward Lee Price

The Yridian feast Captain Joseph Zahn had prepared for the visiting Galaxy crew was thoroughly enjoyed by all.

Captain Price was introduced to the Station's senior staff, and was doubly pleased to meet Commander Kra'lana Morris, First officer to Captain Zahn and the sister of the Galaxy's own Lieutenant Rr'lonii Morris. The two Delphinian sisters sat next to each other and didn't stop talking for barely a minute all through the festive meal.

Lee had the opportunity to meet many of Zahn's staff. Lieutenant Commander Tom Hansen, the Chief Engineer in charge of the repairs to the Galaxy's main shuttle bay doors. Lieutenant Cohen the Station's Strategic Operations Officer. Lieutenant Katrarina

Seles, Chief Operations Officer, and many, many more.

"I must say Captain, you seem to 'ave a very competent staff here 'mate." Lee said as he raised his glass in a toast. "I'm sure the Galaxy will be in good 'ands while she's here."

Zahn smiled as he raised his own cup, as did everyone else at the table before drinking. As Joseph finished, he looked across the table at Price.

"Thank you Captain. If you'd like, I can arrange to take you on a quick tour of our facility." Joseph was beaming with pride. It was easy to tell he was fond of his station and wanted to take this opportunity to show it off.

"A walk about? That sounds lovely 'mate." Price said as he leans back patting his stomach lightly. "It'll help work off a few of the pounds that wonderful feast must 'ave given me." Lee said with a grin.

Patting the corners of his mouth with his napkin, Zahn began to get up. "Great, I'll take you myself Captain. Any of your staff that wishes to come are more than welcome. Though I know many of you are anxious to get to your shore leave."

Many nods circled the table as some officers excused themselves, in a rush to get to the Dabbo tables no doubt. Some decided to take Captain Zahn up on the offer and joined the tour.

"Well, just follow me and I'll talk as we walk. I think better that way." Joseph says with a grin.

"Know what you mean 'mate." Price replies as he walks stride for stride with Captain Zahn. Hands folded behind his back. All of the officers looked rather spiffy in their full dress uniforms.

"We might as well begin with the construction of this station. It's a Yridian design, constructed in 23..."

******

"And here we enter one of the most expansive areas of the entire station aside from the docking bays, the main promenade. Three full stories of shops and stores that make up the social and economic center for this sector." Zahn was full of enthusiasm as he shared the history of the space station with Price and the other officers that accompanied them. It was a breath taking site. As Joseph stepped aside to let Lee and the other officers have a good look, a tall, somewhat lanky woman wearing a pink chiffon dress, and festooned with jewelry came waltzing over.

"Joseph! Oh Joseph! My, aren't we handsome today honey? Oooh, whoo! Looking good Captain!" Dee Dee DuBois said with a huge smile as she tossed the long end of her long white scarf across her neck. As she did, her eyes caught Captain Price. Dee Dee's eyes grew wide, showing off her long, meticulous eye lashes.

"And who pray tell is this gorgeous hunk of a man Joseph? You must introduce us."

Zahn looked like he was trying real hard not to smile, but wasn't succeeding. "This is Captain Lee Price, Commander of the USS Galaxy. Captain, this is Dee Dee DuBios, one of our more distinguished traders here on the Station."

"Pleased to meet you ma'am." Lee said with a sincere smile as he took Dee Dee's hand and kissed it gently.

Fanning herself rapidly with her other hand, she declared, "Beat still my little heart. But then I always go weak in the knees over a man in uniform darling. Are those padded shoulders Captain?" Dee Dee reached up and squeezed Lee's broad shoulders lightly. "Oh my! That is all you. Forgive me Captain." She said with a grin.

Captain Zahn appeared to be looking away, and though Lee couldn't be sure, he appeared to be trying to suppress a chuckle. Some of the other Station officers were not being as successful.

Lee reached and adjusted his uniform jacket. "No 'arm done ma'am. Good as new."

"That accent! My, my, my, my MY! You certainly are the charmer Captain. It's no wonder why you are in command of that big Starship. You could command me to do anything your little heart desired... How could a girl refuse your charms?" Dee Dee pinched Price's cheek flirtatiously. Lee couldn't help but to get a bit flustered. His face turning a bright shade of red.

"He even looks good when he's blushing!" Dee Dee exclaims as she slaps Joseph in his arm to get his attention. Zahn turned back to face the pair. Before he could say anything, Miss DuBios added.

"Well, I could stand here and chit chat all day, but I have a meeting to attend to with a client." Turning Dee Dee made eye contact with Captain Price. "But I do hope we will run into each other again Captain."

Lee cleared his throat, some of his normal coloring returning, slowly. "I'll look forward to that Miss DuBios."

"Oh, PLEASE... call me Dee Dee... you're allowed!"

"okay, Miss Dee Dee. G'day ma'am."

Dee Dee smiled as she turned to Zahn. "He's just too much! Bye Bye sugar. Kisses everyone..." Miss Dee Dee began walking off with a slightly extra bounce to her step as she began whistling cheerfully until she disappeared in the promenade crowd.

Lee glanced over to Captain Zahn. "Interesting character that Miss DuBios."

Joseph just began to laugh. He couldn't take it any more. "Lee, there is something I think you should know about Dee Dee...."

As the two Captains walked on into the promenade, several officers began exchanging slips of latinum. Something about a bet... One thing was certain, everyone was in a very, very jovial mood that evening.

V: "Dinner"

Deiran noticed that Katarina was noticing Troy staring at her.

"Lieutenant that man staring at you, happens to be Lt. Troy Blair, he's the Chief Tactical Officer on the Galaxy. He's very attracted to you, he wanted me to fix you up with him on a date while we're visiting your station. Would you be interested?"

Blunt isn't he. Katarina looked over Deiran's shoulder at Lt. Blair. Looks kinda young. He's probably just curious about Klingon women.

"And whatever you do don't talk to Ronni Morris or K'arta about Troy. They have a jaded view of him. He's a nice guy actually. Besides one little date couldn't hurt, right?"

Katarina would most certainly speak with Lieutenants Morris and K'arta before going anywhere near Lt. Blair. Lt. Seles smiled at Deiran,"It all depends on what kind of date it is Lt. Casey."

Just then the dinner bell rang and Lt. Seles slipped away from the group quietly to get a refill of bloodwine. She reminded herself to thank Electra. The Orion woman had provided a small barrel of the awful tasting refreshment. It didn't look like anyone was going to help her drink it so she scooped out another mug. Can't let this go to waste. When she turned around, a Starfleet commander came up to her and introduced himself.

" Hi. Im Commander Coe, first officer of the Galaxy."

" Lt Seles," she replied with a smile.

" So Lt, whats your specialty?"

"I am Chief of Operations. Nice docking by the way, sir."

Cmdr. Coe smiled and said, "Yes, I heard you had some trouble with your docking bays recently so I didn't want to show off or anything."

At that moment, Chief Dawner walked up to them and Katarina introduced Cmdr. Coe to Beta Two's Chief of Security.

Lt. Seles, Chief Operations Officer Station Beta Two

"Conversations"
Lieutenant Troy Blair
Chief Tactical Officer, USS Galaxy

Troy watched as Deiran talked to Lieutenant Seles, she glanced in his direction then turned back to Deiran. Apparently what Troy thought earlier was true. He turned his attention away from the two in hopes of lessening the blow.

As he looked around the room, he saw Lieutenant Cohen, who he had talked to before arriving at the station. Troy got up from his chair and approached the Lieutenant.

"Lieutenant Cohen...it's a pleasure to finally meet you in person" Troy said, coming up behind the Lieutenant.

"Ahhh...Lieutenant Blair, I was wonder when we would finally meet. So, how do you like the station so far?" Cohen asked

"It's interesting. I'll bet life here is even more intriguing." Troy stated, still keeping an eye in the direction of Deiran and the Half- Klingon

"Yup, it does have it's moments. Will you be touring the station later?" Cohen smiled.

"I'm not sure, perhaps later when I have enough time." Troy replied

Before either could speak another word, a loud chime like noise sounded getting everyone's attention. Apparently dinner was ready. Troy made his way back to the table, he was about to take a seat next to Deiran to find out what Katarina said, when a Delphinian looking similar to Ronni sat in Troy's seat. He was about to ask the lady if she would mind moving, when he saw the number of pips on her tunic. The only seat left open was one next to Lieutenant Seles, he straightened his uniform and took the seat.

He gave a slight nod to Deiran, then spoke... "Hello, Lieutenant Seles; I'm Troy Blair...."

Commander Morris was in seventh heaven. Varin on her left, Ronni on her right, and Dr. Rousseau right across from her. She talked with everyone, non-stop.

Lt. Morris was just as excited. She looked all around, but she didn't see her former mentor, Karen Davies. She had to laugh at Troy because Mr. Sauve and Sophisticated looked like he he was a recent reject from the Tyrell IV Mental Complexes. During the conversation, the Klingon woman that Troy was babbling too, said that she was Lt. Seles, Chief of Operations.

Ronni said, "So you're the one working on the new shield modification?"

"That's right. We're working on a new re-directive shield design." Lt. Seles said, obviously a little proud, meaning it was 'her baby'. Ronni knew how that was.

"Would you like some assistance? I designed the new shields for the USS Galaxy after the Borg attack on Earth and I would love a project more interesting than the one my sister wants me to work on, some Promenade Clinic. I'm like Karen Davies, I'm a Practical Sciences Officer and I would love to do it."

Dr.Salvine rushed to his quarters. There was little time to get ready thanks to his father and he was in no position or mood to meet new people. It was a very bad night plus tomorrow the clinic was opening and that would bring its share of troubles.

After a quick shower and throwing on of his dress uniform, he surveyed himself in the mirror.

~Not bad for a seven minute run. Maybe I do work best under pressure.~ With one last brush through his hair he headed for the Mess Hall.

*********Mess Hall**************

Salvine entered the Mess Hall and saw that the officers had already begun to sit down and Kra'llana was already there. ~Geez, she's even faster then I am~

Surveying the room he decided to take a seat next to Dr.Rousseau. They might be working together over the next few days so this would probably be a good oppurtuinty to get to know each other.

"Hello Dr.Rousseau. I am Dr.Verin Salvine, Chief Medical Officer of Beta Two. I must say I am very impressed with your work on the Galaxy."

Salvine waited for the woman to respond but his mind remained on his father, what was he up to. Giving Ramone the wrong medicine was obviously part of a bigger plan.....but what.

Damn, that's too sweet for me. Jalal thinks after sipping from his wine glass. Putting down the wine glass, he takes his water glass instead. Glancing around, one of the Galaxy crew catches his eye. Hooman emotions are so readable sometimes. Jalal thinks to himself with a silent laugh. Like he needs to be afraid of me. Unless of course, he does something illegal.

Turning to the couple near him. "Forgive me I'm not very good at this sort of thing. But let me introduce myself. I'm the Chief of Security, Jalal Dawner. Mostly people just call me Jalal. Did I understand that the two of you will be getting married? Then let me give you my best wishes. May your futures together be both long and happy."

V: "Dinner - Part 2"

After getting some more bloodwine and some food, Lt. Seles looked around for a place to sit. She was trying to avoid Matthew and no sooner than she sat down her recent admirer sat down next to her. Just my luck. Lt. Blair looked nervous but decided to introduce himself. "Hello, Lieutenant Seles, I'm Troy Blair."

Katarina couldn't help but smile and replied, "Yes, Lt. Casey mentioned you earlier."

Troy's face turned red and it was all she could do not to laugh. The tactical officer seemed pleasant enough but he had probably been out in space too long. Katarina would have to tell him about the little club on the station that Lt. Grigg had discovered. She was trying to think of what to say next when Lt. Morris rescued her.

Ronni said, "So you're the one working on the new shield modification?"

"That's right. We're working on a new re-directive shield design."

"Would you like some assistance? I designed the new shields for the USS Galaxy after the Borg attack on Earth and I would love a project more interesting than the one my sister wants me to work on, some Promenade Clinic. I'm like Karen Davies, I'm a Practical Sciences Officer and I would love to do it."

"Yes, I would appreciate your help very much. We actually have two shields projects going on - the redirective shielding system and the shield remodulation to use against the Borg. Lt. Chiron has volunteered to be the test pilot. It will be interesting to see if it actually works."

Katarina was a little concerned about Lt. Chiron. Chief Dawner had told her earlier that he might be mentally unstable. She didn't need someone like that shooting at the station and wondered if Chiron had a death wish. She put it out of her mind for the time being and turned back to Lt. Morris.

"Oh, you should probably help your sister with the Clinic. She has been trying to get that project done for a looooooooong time. About as long as I have been trying to get the shield modifications done." Lt. Morris just smiled. Katarina reminded herself to get the gossip on Lt. Blair from her sometime.

Lt. Seles, Chief Operations Officer Station Beta Two

Ramone, went on shift as usual in Ops. He was working away just like any other day, but that feeling of something being wrong, just wouldn't go away. It wasn't powerful like before, he guessed that the inhibitor the doctor had given him was still in his system.

All of a sudden, a priority 1 message came in:

'USS Republic has engaged Borg cube,' give the coordinates,'freighter Firefly rammed and heavily damaged Borg ship. Borg regenerating. Republic may require assistance. Returning maximum speed Beta 2. Freighter Grogers Dream.'"

Ramone looked at the message, checking for it's authentication and finding it authentic, Ramone tapped his comm-badge:

"Ops to Captain Zahn and Cmdr Morris"

[Zahn here, Morris here, go ahead]

"Captain and Commander, I apologize for interrupting your dinner, but you are needed in Ops. It is a matter of extreme importance. I might be a good idea to bring Captain Price and his first officer as well. This involves everyone."

[Understood, we're on our way.]

Ramone cut the channel. The Captain didn't sound happy that his dinner had been interrupted. But if the borg was less than an hour away, we had better be ready. He started doing long range scans of the coordinates the freighter had given. Seeing that the Republic had engaged the cut and was in a damaged condition already, they didn't stand much of a chance once the borg cube had regenerated and restored power. Seeing the freighter disengage from the battle and heading back to the station was a good sign.

Ramone ran a few testson his redirective shield programs just to be sure that they were ready and in working order should they be needed.

Just then Captain Zahn, Cmdr Morris and their party showed up in Ops.

[What's the problem?] Captain zahn asked.

Ramone showed him the priority message from the freighter and then showed him the scans of the area in question.

"Orders, Captain?"

"Object Unknown"
Written by Captain Joseph Zahn Commanding Officer, Station Beta Two

"And this brings us to our last stop," Joseph said finshing his grand tour of Station Beta Two, "The observation area is one of the most popula

r spots with travelers and visitors. As you can see, it gives a wonderful view of the nearby Uliplite Nebula. Doesn't it feel like you're almost inside of the nebula? Outside of the adjacent windows you can see the many ships arriving and departing from the station's lower docking area. We'll take a few moments for the Galaxy crew to look around before we go back to the dining hall for desert," Zahn said.

The group spilt up into smaller groups and went off exploring the observation deck of Station Beta Two. Joseph noticed Katarina intentially standing alone watching a Ferengi ship go to warp. "You were very popular at dinner Miss Seles. Enjoy the attention?" he said walking up to his favorite Klingon.

She moved her head up, looking to find the face from which the voice came. "Captain," she stated looking at Joseph, "Yeah, I guess I was getting some rather interesting glances in the Mess Hall. Nothing I'm not used to, of course, since I know seeing someone with a Klingon background in a Starfleet uniform is unusal."

"Somehow I don't think they were staring at you just because you are half Klingon, Lieutenant," Captain Zahn said hintingly with a smirk.

Before Katarina could respond Lieutenant Blair walked up to the Human and Klingon. "Good evening," he greeted. Seles remembered the Lieutenant from eariler in the evening. "Captain, this is Lieutenant Blair, the Chief Tactical Officer aboard the Galaxy," she said introducing the two.

"Nice to meet you Lieutenant," Joseph said shaking his hand. Lieutenant Blair paused before he said anything else. The trio glazingly stared out of the window at a strange-looking shuttle. The Ferengi ship had long gone to warp minutes ago. There were no ships outside of the vast space around Beta 2, except for a small oval spacemass about as large as three biobeds. It was hard to clearly see it from all the way up at Deck One, but it was brown with some type of lit decorative symbols.

"I don't remember that ship from my starship identification classes back at the academy. Is it Yridian?" Troy asked looking a Katarina. She stood in silence for a moment surveying the ship. It was unknown to her too. It didn't match any ships