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

*** Ten Forward ***

Troy sat in the lounge relaxing, and sipping on his usual Vulcan Tea, something he couldn't completely enjoy while in the Void. He sat near one of the large windows staring out at the stars, which he never fully appreciated until staring out at vast darkness.

"Hey Troy!" came Deiran's voice. Troy looked up to see both Casey and Ti standing next to each other, both with smiles, "Mind if we join you?"

"Not at all, have a seat." Blair motioned with his hands toward the two empty chairs, "So you two unwinding now that were back?"

"That, and planning our wedding" Ti replied

"Ahhh, the wedding. Soon you'll be a condemned man, Deiran. No more flirting with the young Academy graduates, my good friend." Troy joked

"Hey, hey, hey, no getting me in trouble now. Why would I want them, when I have Miran?" Deiran looked at Ti with 'puppy dog eyes', they kissed.

"Alright...rule number one, none of that mushy mushy stuff in front of me, it gets sickening. Comprende?" Troy said sarcastically.

"Just you wait Troy Blair, I suspect you'll probably be this way one day." Deiran commented

"Me? HA! No way, never, not a chance...I'd rather go back to the void" Troy shot back at Casey

"Uh huh, I've seen the way you flirt with Ronni. Any day now your view will change."

"Flirt? No, no, no, my dear friend, that is not flirting it's tormenting. There is a difference. Troy Blair does not do the 'relationship thing', I wouldn't have earned the nickname of Don Juan at the Academy, if I was tied down." Troy stated, with a cocky nod of his head, Deiran laughed out loud.

"I'm really going to enjoy watching you, once you realize I'm right." Derian said in a low drawn out tone, as he leaned across the table.

"Ya whatever." Troy turned his head back to the viewports.

"Troy?" Ti said in a low voice.

"Yes Miran?" answered Troy, turning back to the couple.

"Deiran and I have a special favor to ask of you." The Bajoran looked down at the table, "As is the custom, someone is needed to escort the bride's mother during the ceremony......We were wondering If you would be that person."

"Miran, Deiran; I would be honored to participate in your wedding" Troy replied

"It'll give you practice for your own" Derian said quickly, Blair shot him an evil look

"Thank you Troy," Ti started, "I don't know what I would have done if you said no"

"Don't worry about it, it will be fun" Troy replied, "So when is the date?"

"Soon, definatly before our next mission." remarked Derian

"Well, I'm looking forward to it. Now, if you two will excuse me, I've got some reports to finish up." Troy got out of his seat and headed for the door.

"Have fun!" Derian called out, before he exited Ten Forward.

"The Kid, The Bartender and the Engineer"
by Lieutenant Andrew Hutchcraft

"Well, at least let me buy you a drink?" Hutch asked.

"Okay, I'll accept that." Casey looked at Liam, "I'll take a large grape juice. The real stuff, Liam, not replicated." Casey turned to Hutch, Casey was beaming. Casey just cost Hutch a lot of credits.

"You offered," Casey said in response to Hutch's growl.

The Chief Engineer looked at the very young officer, before brightening his eyes, and putting on the infamous Hutchcraft grin that he had gained a reputation for. Actually, it wasn't the grin that gave Hutchcraft his reputation, but all the other things.

He wasn't your ordinary Engineer, definetly. This has been proven at various times during his career as a starfleet officer. The relationship between Hutchcraft, and the staff at Ten Forward was one of the most established differences between Andrew, and the ordinary Starfleet officer.

For starters, an ordinary Starfleet officer is content with purchasing his or her drinks from the bar, and drinking them as they are prepared by the Staff. They have faith in Liam Sketcher, the australian barman, and his team of skilled barmen.

However, Andrew, being a progressive artist of sorts, is not one to let the preparation of his drink be prepared by such unexciting wine-college-graduates. He wanted something different, to create the unimaginable from the pedestrian liquid (if you call Blood Wine, Champagne and even Romulan Ale (a near-deadly liquid to humans, as almost proven before by Hutchcraft in the past) pedestrian liquids).

That was how a reputation was born. It was followed by several other notable antics of the ex-Security Officer - what waitress on duty would forget the drunken behaviour of Hutchcraft when it was Acting Chief of Security? Or the disastrous vocal performance he gave during the Christmas Party?

Lt. Casey was not an officer that Lt. Hutchcraft tended to socialize with, despite being members of the same band - the Crusaders. Which brought about something ...

"Sketch, one large grape juice, the real thing, put it on my tab, and ..." Hutchcraft thought to himself as he decided on what he was to order "... the ingredients to Hutchcraft special, #14"

Sketcher, the Bartender at Ten Forward, quickly looked at Casey. Casey exchanged a look that suggested 'don't ask me', before Sketcher consulted a small PADD that say behind his bar.

The PADD was one that Hutchcraft had created, specifically for his favourite bartender. Sketcher didn't even want to make any of these concoctions, let alone drink them. Hence, Sketcher only supplied the ingredients, leaving Hutchcraft to make the actual cocktail.

Hutchcraft's parents, incidentally, did not drink. They did supply a lot of coffee at their cafe, though.

"Here you go, gentlemen" stated Sketcher as he handed Deiran a large, tasty fruit-juice, and Hutchcraft three liquids contained within three metal containers, alongside a glass and a spoon (Hutchcraft liked his cocktails stirred, not shaken)

Casey looked at the three metal containers. He dreaded to see what they were, and watched as Hutchcraft poored each into the glass. It was almost ritualistic. Casey was surprised that Hutchcraft hadn't sang a song before the beverage was prepared.

Finally, the fluid was prepared, and Hutchcraft smiled as he took his first sip.

"What is that stuff, Hutch?" asked the young Operations Officer next to Andrew.

Hutchcraft smiled. "Rum & Coke, with a slight hint of Bolian Lemon Juice"

Casey looked slightly surprised. It sounded like such an ordinary drink, certainly not something he expected from the Canadian. "What does it taste like?"

"You can really taste the Lemon Juice ..." Hutchcraft took another sip of the charmingly displayed fluid. He cringed slightly, a result of the sharp taste of Lemon.

It was then that Hutchcraft had remembered the Crusaders. The last time they had played, was back at the Christmas Party, after the event with the Borg (it had also been the day that Hutchcraft, as well as Casey, had been promoted)

"So Casey, when are we next playing? Y'know, the Crusaders" queried the elder, yet less-experienced officer.

Casey shrugged "I don't know yet, my friend. Why don't you ask ..."

Sketcher had overheard the officers, and walked towards them "Whenever, Andy. Without D'tarna Bellen, though, we're a bit small..."

"I miss D'tarna ..." started Casey, but was cut short by Hutchcraft.

"Well, let's find some new members then, Liam" replied Andrew to man that coped with Andrew's behaviours most of the time.

"You know the crew better than I, Andrew ..." Liam pointed out.

"But only Engineering and Security, other than that I know few people here" responded Andrew with a mildly aggresive voice.

"We could train someone up for the job" commented Deiran.

Liam nodded "That's a good idea, Deiran... I'll look into it ..."

Hutchcraft nodded. Casey agreed too. It was a strange idea, but would be a lot of fun. As Sketcher walked away, Hutchcraft moved on to another subject "So Casey, what's this about a marriage between you and ..."

The Ten Forward doors opened, and a Bajoran girl walked in. Casey briefly looked at Hutchcraft. Hutchcraft decided the question could wait, and nodded to Casey "Ne'ermind, I'll talk to you about it later ..."

Hutchcraft briefly looked at the younger female Bajoran, Ti Miran, before sitting back at a table of his own. He found the new Engineer, Ensign Mercury, and say by him. "So how do you like Engineering, Ensign?"

James Donovan

"Wedding Advice"
Ensign Christopher Thomas Ops, USS Galaxy

*** Bridge ***

Chris was tired, but so was everyone else. Almost everyone had over the past couple of days pulled mutiple shifts in every department to some extent. The repairs to the ship where on schedule, due to the damage Starfleet had decided that now was as good as anytime to do some additional upgrades to the Galaxy, most where minor. There a few that were a bit more significant, but nothing really impresive overall. Chris preformed his appointed duty at ops, nothing was really happening that was of interest most of it was daily rotinue operations. His shift was up, all he was waiting for was Ensign Duncan to replace him. Michael had sent a message asking Chris if he would cover for him. Chris said yes at the request of why, Michael said "Chris I have a great medieval program that I am running." Chris really didn't mind it was just be part of the team. The turbolift doors opened and Ensign Duncan stepped, just eight minutes late. Chris had already informed Commander Coe that Ensign Duncan would be a bit late, and that he had agreed to cover for him. The commander accepted it, with the void insident, everyone needed time to recover.

"Thanks for filling in for me Chris." Michael said, as the exchange placed.

"No problem, the holodecks can be great fun." Chris wispered to Ensign Duncan and then headed for the turbo lift.

*** Ten Forward ***

Chris decided that he needed a break himself and headed for ten forward. When he walked the he saw the place was busy, everyone was trying to relax and overcome the ordeal they had all just faced together. Chris walked to the bar and order water, then he saw Lt. Casey and Lt. Ti, Miran sitting together. From what Chris had heard they were suppose to be getting married shortly. He thought about his and Gwyen's wedding on Earth the day had been prefect, expect the usual problems that always seem to arise at weddings. He walked over to see how they where doing with there wedding plans. Chris had experience in this affair, he had watched two his best friends get married. Then he attened a couple will undercover, part of the job, he supposed, but starfleet never the less found them interesting.

"Mind if I join you two for a couple of minutes?" Chris asked, he felt that he was inturding on their private life, but then if they really wanted to be alone there were other places on the ship they could have gone.

"Please join Chris, I understand that you've been married once." Ti said, realiazing and hoping that she had caused a problem. Not to that she was insensitive, she just really hadn't gotten to know him.

"I thought that if you were interested I might be able to offer you some advice, so that your wedding will go off without a hitch, (problem). I have never seen a Bajorian wedding, I have witsnesedd three Romulan weddings, two Klingon weddings and several human weddings. I don't know if any of that will be of any real help, but what I do know in general, might be useful." Chris said taking a drink of water.

They set there looking at Chris, they had joined Troy and then the Chief Engineer had been by and now Chris had stopped to join them. The wedding was certaintly attarching a lot of attention. Prehaps due to the sadness and death that had surrounded them only a short time ago. The thought of happier times had begun to return to the living this day and people were begin to show it, despite the damage the station and the ship still showed.

"Well we have pretty much got the wedding planned out, but thanks for the offer anyway." Lt. Casey said as drank his prume juice.

"I am happy to hear that, but nothing personal against either of you, but that is what me and Gwyen thought the day before our own wedding. We had just forgotten one minor detail, we forgot to order the cake." Chris said, looking at them, then added "Of course we weren't on a starship, but still we had 200 and some guest expecting us to cut the cake."

"Oh my what in the world did you do?" Deiran asked, interupting the story, but almost on que, actually.

"Well I'm glad that you asked, we managed to place an order for the cake, just before the wedding cermony. The cake would be delivered in three hours, special order, special cost. That meant that we had to stall for as much as time as possible. We delayed the ceremony for fifteen minutes, and we managed to delay every chance we got until we were sure the cake was there. We got extremely lucky, that we had brought enough time for the cake to get there and for them to get it in place before are arrival. I have to admit that was once the toughtest things to do, stetch the truth to about five dozen starfleet officers and professors."

"What exactly were those officer anyway?" Deiran asked again on que.

"Well if must know there ranks ranged from ensign to admiral, some where family, others were friends. I tell you that I hope that I never have to go and lie to the captain, for any reason. If don't beleive me try it with a senior officer, it is not the smartest thing to do." Chris as he finished up his water. He figured that it was about time for him to move on and leave the two love birds by themselves. They probably still had some plans that needed fine tuning, that or they realy need sometime by themselves.

"Well if you'll excuse me I think that I should be going, I have some reading to do." Chris said as he got up and prepared to excuse himself. He had just recieved some more minor reports regarding Starbase 84. "Conguradualtions on your upcoming wedding." Chris finished as he walked away leaving them alone again.

"The Dampening"
by Ensign Soushonn Arcas

The search lights scanned the ground in front of where Soushonn had concealed himself. He was infinitely sure he would not be seen but he still had the familiar dry throat and knotted stomach of a stealth mission. As the glow of the lights passed by again, he leapt into action, silently running towards his objective.

Fifteen seconds and the last tri-cobalt device was in place. He enabled the activator and quickly scanned for any perimeter guards. There were several, but all were out of visual range. The coast was clear.

He looked at his chronometer. "The others should be done by now" he thought. He had made his way back to the sheltered spot and waited for ten minutes before deciding that it was time. He procured the detonator and after drawing a quick breath, pressed the charge.

With a deafening blast, the perimeter wall of Maresh Q'ii disintegrated under the force of Soushonn's charge. Alarms began to sound and the voices of the area guards began to call for emergency measures.

Soushonn ran for the new entrance, praying that his stealth equipment would hide him in the low light. He leapt through the flames and scanned the interior. All was as it should be... The strategy would work, he was sure of it. Hearing the approach of several guards, he drew his caltrops and scatterd them across the ground before retreating behind a wall.

As the guards rounded the corner they received Soushonn's ambush. The first ran right into the mess of caltrops before he even saw the hole in the perimeter wall. The device clicked and shot tiny projectiles up and into his boots, immediately penetrating his foot and striking the nerve endings therein. He toppled, paralyzed.

The second stopped himself and raised his weapon but it was too late. An energy net fired from Soushonn's unseen weapon hit him full force and knocked him through the air, pinning him against another segment of the perimeter wall. He passed out from the net's continual electrical feed and hung, pegged down and unable to even fall to the ground.

The third and final of the guards was the fastest to react. He fired his blaster at where Soushonn had been standing just seconds ago, hoping to hit whatever it was that had just taken down his companions. He swore out loud as the beam buried itself in the darkness, drawing a return fire from the black void to it's left.

The guard rolled out of the energy net's way and fired twice more with the weapon set to molecular disruption. Again, no hit. But it was too late.

A soft thud behind the guard was heard moments before he felt himself lifted up into the air by the dorsal folds of his uniform. He tried to yell for reinforcements but a fist knocked hard into the small of his spine, setting off a muscle spasm that almost made him choke.

He heard a voice not belonging to his own race speak to him in the darkness. The language was perfect; the accent was not.

"You're all going to pay for this... "

The guard gasped, then sailed forcably through the air and onto the remaining caltrops, their microscopic needles quickly rendering him immobile and harmless.

Soushonn inserted a new cell in the slot of his own weapon as he continued his jaunt through Maresh Q'ii's interior... He felt the objective wasn't far from his reach... Until he rounded the corner leading into the main area. The two other attack segments hadn't set their charges! He was the only one inside the perimeter!

Soushonn kneeled down into the darkness to think. He should get out now before getting caught. He couldn't possibly capture the entire objective all by himself, could he??? On the other hand, their plans were now compromised... IF he didn't succeed, there wouldn't be a second chance. Retreat would mean defeat.

So he proceeded.

Five guards this time. Varying armaments on their persons, they looked a lot more prepared than the last three. But it wouldn't matter...

Soushonn leapt and swung himself up and over the edge of the roof of a small building inside the perimeter. He positioned himself behind a chimney and aimed his weapon at the guards.

The setting was wide dispersal, the effect: heavy stun.

All five dropped to the ground instantly, knocked unconscious. It was a nice shot...

"I'll take that!" growled a voice from behind Soushonn.

He front rolled and leapt into the air, spinning a full 180° to face his assailant, but his movements were matched.

An immense dark figure slapped the weapon out of his hands in mid-air and grabbed him by the throat as they both landed.

The voice boomed "Sneaking around in the dark isn't very civilized you little insect!"

Soushonn struggled to breathe, his hands grasping at the much larger ones strangling the life out of him... His eyes opened wide as two red globes appeared inches from his face... Two burning red eyes staring into his soul...

"Die"

* * *

He awoke with a start, the perspiration damp in his sheets and hair.

The nightmare...

Again...

He threw the covers off and walked to the sonic shower, his breathing slowing as his consciousness accepted the fact that he was no longer in danger...

"Computer... Time?"

"1200 hours."

He thought...

"Four hours until Beta shift. Less than an hour's sleep... Wonderful."

The nightmare itself was bad enough, but Soushonn wouldn't sleep any more tonight, making for a very, very difficult duty shift tomorrow. He hated normal sonic showers... But a normal sonic shower was all he was going to get.

His quarters didn't house the luxuries of a Senior Officer's quarters. He had the basic living space: A living/working room, bedroom and small bathroom. There were no wonderfully illustrious windows on his ceiling and the decor he had added since his transfer from Sigma Alpha wasn't to his satisfaction. And he wanted water. Refreshing, cool, pure, relaxing water.

He stepped into the device and contemplated setting up an appointment with the Ship's Counsellor, Lieutenant Devlynn Salshyar. After a moment's thought, he discarded the idea... Afraid of what even one counselling session might leak out of his psyche.

"Maybe next time... Not today..."

"Preparations"
by Lieutenant Joerg Sterner
Chief of Security, USS Galaxy

While the repairs on the Galaxy were about to be completed, Joerg still figured out a way to show his respect to the wedding of Lieutenant Ti and Lieutenant Casey. Finally he had an idea. 'A tournament like the ones back in the middle ages.' he thought.

Quickly he wrote a message to everyone on the ship.

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

To: All crew members aboard USS Galaxy
From: Lieutenant Joerg Sterner
Subject: Invitation to tournament

Due to the fact that Lieutenants Ti and Casey are about the have there wedding soon, I want to invite everyone to a middle age style tournament with jousting, hand to hand combat, and archery competitions. This festival will take place on holodeck 2 in two weeks at 1400 hours. Medieval clothes are recommended, but not necessary.

I hope to see all of you there.

Joerg Sterner, Chief of Security

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

After he sent this message, he knew that the next two weeks won't be easy for him. He started right away with the first preparations by modifying some of his personal program. The basic concept for his holo-party was there within a few hours, however he knew that not everyone wanted to fight on this party. So he also had to include some entertaining parts to his program.

He spent most of the first week of preparations with reading and finding possible non-violent attractions. But since he was an expert only on the medieval combat, he had to connect to many databases and even some of his books about the medieval era helped him much.

Meanwhile the Galaxy had departed from Beta 2 and was heading for a new destination, so that the work of the chief of security was not that hard anymore. He even asked some of his security officers to help him creating the holoprogram. Most of them helped him with this task, since they also wanted to have a great party. Some of them wanted to make the best party for the wedding, while others saw this to be a great opportunity to celebrate their successful escape from the Void.

The day of the big party came nearer and nearer, but Joerg saw that there was plenty of time remaining, since the program was nearly completed. He had added a large variety of entertainment, like the jousting and archery competitions, the jugglers and magicians, a small brawl, that would occur beside the main attractions, a large banquette for the guests, and so on. He just wanted this party to be a lasting impression for everyone participating.

The day before, Joerg wanted to try out all his attractions. Therefore he put on his favorite clothes, he also used in his own holoadventures, which made him look like the Sheriff of Nottingham. He was on his way to the holodeck, when he met Lieutenant Hutchcraft.

"Hi Andy." he just greeted his friend from engineering.

"Hello there. I see you are just doing one of your little middle age adventures, aren't you?" Andy replied.

"Kind of. Actually I'm going to test the party program for tomorrow's wedding party."

"I see. Well then take care that nothing happens and we don't have to visit you in sickbay Joe." he said smiling.

"I know, but I'll be careful. Hope to see you tomorrow on the party." Joerg added and headed on to the holodeck.

Once inside the holodeck he started the program and was surrounded by a large court with many people standing to see the main attractions. He started to test the jousting first. He sat on one of the horse, took the lance and the shield and was ready for action.

His opponent was a knight in a shining silver armor. Since he programmed all of the opponents, he knew of this one's weakness. They started to ride, lances pointed at each other and some moments later the silver knight was on the floor. Joerg dismounted from his horse and they both were handed maces. On the ground, this knight was also no match for Joerg and soon he knocked him unconscious. Since these fights were not meant for life and death, he showed mercy and the crowd cheered to him for his deed.

He also tested all the other attractions and in the end came to the conclusion that everything was in perfect order for the party. Completely exhausted he returned to his quarters and was quickly asleep.

On the next day he was very nervous. 'Will everyone enjoy the program?', 'Have I tested everything?', 'Haven't I forgotten anything? were just some of the questions on his mind. Therefore he sent Ensign Mulich to check everything on holodeck 2 again. But as expected he soon returned with good news.

"I checked everything sir. The whole holodeck 2 is in perfect condition and I even double-checked the holo-security. It'll be a perfect party, don't worry." he tried to encourage his superior officer.

Joerg, glad to hear that, thanked him and went back to his quarters. 'Only one hour remaining.' he thought and put on his medieval clothes. He also decided to take one of his favorite swords with him, since he was merely an observer on the party, and not about to fight at all. He looked in the mirror, took a deep breath and left for the holodeck.

He was glad to be the first one to arrive, and upon entering he started the program. All he had now to do was waiting for the guests to arrive, and hope they all have a good time.

"Undue Attention"
by Lt Ti Miran

"Mind if I join you two for a couple of minutes?" Miran looked up at Deiran. He smiled. She motioned the ensign to have a seat.

"Please." This was one drawback to the wedding plans. Miran didn't know what to do with all the attention it drew to her. Everyone that she passed had said something pertaining to the wedding. Most of the time is was just a congradulations. Still, it was attention that she thought undue. She wasn't used to it- that was the biggest part.

Deiran introduced the Ensign as Christopher Thomas, one of his ops officers. She didn't know him. She had always been shy and never tried to make friends but it was strange how many people she knew and could call friend. She guessed that life on a starship wasn't that bad after all.

The ensign mentioned remembering the cake. She wasn't going to worry about the food. Liam was in charge there. She had too many things to worry about as it was. At least she got an escort for Kateli out of the way. Troy was a good friend. She still hadn't asked K'arta. She should have taken care of that already but then again with all that had happened.

She excused herself and let Deiran be with his friends. She went back to her quarters. Sitting at her computer she sent a message asking K'arta to get back to her when she isn't busy. With everything going on Miran didn't know what K'arta was doing when anymore.

Everything was basically taken care of. Alexander Stephin was going to give her away. The Stephin family was happy for her. They were kind of sad that Miran wouldn't be joining their family but that just wasn't meant to be.

"Hey, Bobbie. Come here." The little ferret jumped up on to her lap. The two sat together until it was about time for Miran to leave for her shift.

"Gifts of the Heart"
by Lt. (Jg.) Ronni Morris
Asst. Chief of Science, USS Galaxy

Ronni entered Ten-Forward looking for Miran. Unfortunately, the table she was sitting at was full of other well wishers and people wanting to give advice. She decided to talk to Miran later.

She went to the ship store to try to find a gift for Miran and Deiran. The selection was overwhelming. She pulled up the Bridal list but still couldn't decide on a gift. She wanted the gift to be personal and useful. Suddenly, she got an idea. She ordered a couple of small things from the Store and watched it materialize on the pad.

Rushing back to her quarters, she went over to her little shelf of personal items. Her favorite crystal statue, craved by her sister, was of a Delphinian Quoota, a warrior spearwoman. The Quoota had the spear over her head in a look of triumph. Kra'lana had given it to her when she won the Cochran Award in Engineering.

She carefully wrapped the statue in a Ferengileaf Latnium coated box that she had got at the Store, and put a fanciful ribbon on top. Then, with the handcrafted Bajoran Dula tree paper, symbolizing peace and prophecy, she wrote a note to the couple with Delphinian Colol ink.

"Dearest Friends -

I wish you peace and long life together. May the Prophets watch over you and lead you through a life rich with learning, loving, and prosperity. May your many children grow to be as wise and wonderful as the two of you are!

With love and hope,
Rr'lonni Morris"

She sealed the note with Bajoran honeywax and attached it to the gift. She then sent a message to Miran say that she would be honored to take care of her little animal while they were on their honeymoon.

Right when she had finished, she got the message about the Medival Party on holodeck 2 and she decided she had better change. Fortunately, she still had that dress from her recent Robin Hood adventure on the holodeck.

"Obligations"
by Ensign Christopher Thomas
Ops - USS Galaxy

*** Ensign Thomas' Quarters ***

Chris walked into his quarters after stopping by ten-forward. 'Computer any messages?' 'There is one message from Starfleet Intelligence.' Oh no Chris thought to himself the last time S.I. had called him, Gwyen had perished. What in the universe could they want this time. 'Computer delete message,' he was interested in what they had to say. "Unable to delete message,' the computer responded.

Chris nodded his head that could only mean one thing, they likely had mission they wanted him to go on. He already knew the answer to the question, without even having to think about it.

'Computer what is the time of transmission?' Chris asked, the time would tell him when and mostly where exactly it had come from, standard assumption.

'The message was transmitted at 20:57.' The computer responded.

"Computer who sent the message and where did originate from?' He could have figured out exactly where if he wasn't so tired.

'Unable to comply message is encrypted.'

Chris sat down, annoyed at the message. Then he activated the monitor on his desk. 'Computer display message,' Chris said as he keyed in his old S.I. authorization, there was little point to using his current security level clearance. The message appeared before him to his surprise and disappointment, only one reason existed for it to have worked. Starfleet Intelligence required his services again. He really wasn't interested, but he decided that he should read the message or else someone else might die. Not again, never again, would he let that happen if he had a choice. Activating the message meant he was most likely going somewhere.

'Computer is there a brief available please provided it, because I'll bet that Captain will want to know why I am needing to go somewhere.

* Message Text Only *

From: Starfleet Intelligence
To: Ensign Christopher Kell Thomas,
USS Galaxy - under the command of Captain Robert Edward Lee Price.

Starfleet Intelligence hear by request your services once again.

Mr. Thomas we have need of your talents once again. I am afraid that all I can give you is a mission brief as you requested. For further information you'll have to accept the mission, good luck if you decided to accept this mission.

The objective is to penetrate a Romulan city located on the edge of the border. Once there, your group is to locate and rescue a Federation Starfleet Intelligence Officer with valuable information on the Romulans. His name is Jonathan Thorn your team is to get him out alive at whatever the cost, if you're caught the Federation will deny all knowledge of your whereabouts or activities. The decision is yours to make, but I can tell that this is a time table that you must follow in order to be successful.

* End Message *

Chris sat back in his chair, how many people would be on this mission he wondered. He figured that it couldn't be more than five total. He decided that they could wait until morning after he had some more sleep.

*** O8:00 Captain's Ready Room ***

He had no other choice he would have to get Captain Price's permission to proceed with this mission. He pressed the button requesting entrance.

"Come in," the captain said. He had come earlier to check on the repairs. He was just about to go and relieve the lt. commander. Chris stepped into the room for only the second time.

"Captain may I have a word with you?" Chris asked, the captain sat back down in his cozy chair.

"Of course Ensign."

"Captain last night I received a message from Starfleet Intelligence, they want me to go on a mission for them." Chris said, then added, "may I use your monitor ?" The captain waved his hand at the monitor.

Chris activated it then pulled the information he had seen last from reading and turned it to face the Captain, so he could read it as well.

"They want to seen me and a team on a covert rescue mission, sir. That is why I am being direct and asking for your permission, before I accept. The other thing is that I will need a small team I would estimate five people a maximum. We would need to look like Romulans and speak their language as well." Chris said, for now all he could do was wait for the Captain's response.

Lt. Devlynn Salshyar (Dev)
Chief Counselor, USS Galaxy - NCC-70637

After another lengthy session with Lt. Chiron, Devlynn's mind was absolutely exhausted. She had exercised his senses to the max, he had performed well beyond her expectations. She was amazed at how quickly he was developing. She was also noting that with these workouts her mental muscles were becoming more well tuned. Devlynn looked forward to meeting with him each time. And told him that henceforth, he need only contact her mentally when he needed an appointment.

She fell heavily into bed that evening and was asleep almost instantly. A dream took over her sleep...

She awoke with a start. That was no dream, it was a nightmare. Not even her own. She tried to remember what she could, she could only remember the end. The hands, strapped around her throat. The life seeping from her. The evil in the other creature.

She got up from her bed, called to the computer, "lights, 40%." The intensity increased such that she could see. "Computer, time," Was her next command.

"1200 hours," it responded plainly.

She shook her head. Who's dream was that? Why had she sensed it so intensely. She scanned the crew, such dreams have residual effects that can be found in the mind for several hours, if not for days.

That's how she located Ensign Arcas. She could sense the distress in his mind. She flashed through his mind quickly and she almost thought that he could sense her, but then the thought disapated. She stood, ran through the shower and got dressed.

Ensign Arcas wasn't going to sleep for the rest of the night and neither was she if she didn't talk to him. She headed out the door and headed for the Ensign's quarters.

Chiron arrived in his quarters to find a message blinking happily away on his desk. It was from Sterner, about a medieval games scenario on the Holodeck. Chiron had studied much about that peroid of Earth history, and eagerly awaited the chance to use his weapons skills again.

He hadn't picked up a hand weapon since... since he and Bellen had sparred in the Holodeck just before the Borg incident.

He responded to the message, but didn't mention what character he would take... THAT would be a surprise.

[ The Schizoid Man ]

USS Galaxy: "Prepare to Joust"
by Lt Ti Miran

Brightly colored pavilions stood around the tourney grounds. Destriers whistled challenges. Esquires scurried about running errands for their knights.

Miran would have to thank Sterner for his thoughtfulness. It looked like this was going to be loads of fun. After getting the invitation and between getting wedding plans taken care of, she did some research into the time period to find appropiate clothing. The dresses of the time weren't in line with her taste and she thought them more then a bit uncomfortable but in the spirit of the games she wore one. It was a forest green velvet dress trimmed with gold. The skirt was long and full. The bodice was cut low but not untastefully low and was tight fitting. Her hair was done up in elaborate braids threaded with gold cord. She hadn't let Deiran see the dress- he had to wait until he decided to fulfill his spot in today's events.

He kept from her what his plans were for today as she had. She had warned him that he better be careful in whatever he did. If he got himself hurt, she would kill him herself. She did bring a scarf so that he may wear her color if he so wished. She was greeted by many passersby as she wandered about.

Yes, this was going to be quite interesting. She couldn't wait for the jousts to begin. She started to head towards where she was going to be sitting.

"Obligations part 2"
by: Ensign Thomas Ops- USS Galaxy

*** Captain's Ready Room ***

The captain had clearly expressed his concerns, with why Starfleet Intelligence would call upon him. He thought about for a few minutes and then decided on what he was going to do, that life was now behind him and he was going to try and forget everything about. One day he might wish to return to Starfleet Intelligence, but today was not that day.

"Captain I have considered what you have said to me and I have decided that I think that I can provide Starfleet Intelligence with what they need without going on the mission. A subspace coded message sent back to them including my thoughts should surf ice. I even actually remember someone who is still with them, that would actually be more qualified for this operation than me. You are absolutely right sir." Chris said. "Permission to leave sir?"

"Granted." The captain said.

Chris walked out the captain's ready room and headed for his quarters. He actually felt like an idiot and secondly he felt like he passing up an opportunity to get the answers he so desperately needed. However he had prior obligations and they did not include S.I. at this time. He considered what he was going to do, and decided that seen as how he going to have the time, he might as well continue the work he had done on his senior thesis and work on studying another language.

*** Ensign Thomas' Quarters ****

He walked into his quarters sat down and typed a message and sent it on its way. There that was done, he had told S.I. once and for all that he was done with them they had already cost him too much. A pattern started to appear before every time he got involved with S.I. he end getting into trouble or losing something namely his wife. He decided the best for him to recover now was to limit his friendship with outside of his duty hours. At this moment in time he felt as if he couldn't live with the thought of watching another friend or love one die for that matter. He had made a promise that when he had left S.I. was for good, but now why was he so trouble the decision to take the captains advice and leave well enough all. The answer came to him, because the person who was sent on the mission might never come back and that might be an old friend, something he was running out of very quickly. Before he came aboard the Galaxy he had been informed of three his friends that he had worked with. Though he was beginning to really care of how many died, because he just couldn't care anymore.

*** Bridge Beta Shift ***

Chris reported for his duty shift despite how he felt, feelings did not matter on a Federation starship, while on duty. The shift went the same most of his shift's went without incident and without problems. He had his job to perform and that was it. Chris finished his shift and headed for his quarters.

*** Ensign Thomas's Quarters ***

The more he thought about the message the more reluctant he became, he knew that S.I. had change everything that he had access to upon his leave. Then why if it was a setup would they want him, surely the sender realized that he would not come with anyone but the best Starfleet had to offer on such a mission. He surely wouldn't actual draw a team form the Galaxy, for one the captain would never allow it, two he didn't know how far he could trust them. None this was beginning to make sense, perhaps it had been a trap, now a failed trap. He sent the response to them that was pointless information, things that either side knew.

'Computer anymore messages that come from Starfleet Intelligence, delete them and if the won't delete them put them in a folder a called junk!' Now he hoped that any further messages they he would never hear. Some people might consider it arrogant for him to behave this way, he did not, to hell with logic at this moment. He had been a puppet for S.I. and nothing more, which the idea now was revolting. From this moment on he'd turned his back on the past and was now rushing to embrace the future whatever that might hold.

Then he fell to his knees and started sobbing as he realized that he was giving up on the promise to find the answers for Gwyen's family and for his own well being. He just laid in the middle of the floor crying himself to sleep. It was the first time he had every done that sense he had been beaten to plump by a Klingon in life or death challenge.

Chris woke up the next morning right where he had gone to sleep last night. He was cold from sleeping the which caused him to hurry and get up. He quickly got up and head for the shower, his uniform was a mess. On the way to get into the shower he ran into his desk and stubbed his toe. He limped now to the shower, cursing himself for being such a fool. He couldn't believe what he had done.

He finished up his shower, 'Computer what time is it?' "It is 09:00' the computer responded.

Chris had already decided that he needed something to keep him busy. He had already come with the answer his final thesis had been one developing a computer program that could learn to manage a ships systems more efficiently as it learned. The theory had been sound and that was what had made the paper. He decided that he now had the time to really work on it and that was what he was going to do for however long he could each day. He consider how he was going to go about working on the project. His conclusion, because he only could have some much time a day on a holodeck he would have to use it efficiently. That meant that the rest of calculations would have to be done here in his room and on PADD, with him having to do several of calculations without computer aid.

*** Holodeck 4 ***

He had limited time, chris quickly set to work. Designing the program so that he got a holographic replication he needed. He had brought two PADDs with and paper, which he had replicated. He couldn't keep both PADD's he would have to return one of them after his work. The paper offered the next best solution. Well he figured maybe one day my manuscript on this proceed will be worth something. He set work writing the actual program running complex calculations using the computer and his head, writing his calculations on paper. He needed something else. He had an empty wall to use, 'Computer create me a blackboard over against the south wall and then give me one on wheels.' If any saw this they'd he was teaching class or just plan crazy, they'd be wrong.

He had quickly found a new passion to pour his soul into. This allowed him to forget Gywen's death and the loss he had suffered. He worked thought his given time, which went so quickly. He saved the program under the name 'Data' for in real essences he was trying to build a neural network for a ships computer, to an extent. The irony he realized was that he had found a new way to hid his pain and now hatred. He had managed to change gears, but now where was going. He finished up saved the program and hulled out his notes that he had made. He had used up the ream of paper front and that he had replicated. He would need more along with a book to hold it all. He would at this rate use his room up. One choice he spent the rest of his time before his shift, transferring his notes onto a storage unit.

As he worked frantically he remember a book, that describe him once again, "Moby Dick by Herman Mellvile, about Captain Ahab and his obsession with a great whale, Moby Dick, he called it."

"Sad Times"
by Lt. (jg) K'arta
Assistant Chief of Security USS Galaxy

K'arta and Ronni stood together at the funeral. Captain Price gave a touching eulogy. She and Ronni were headed back to the Galaxy to change out of their dress uniforms when Ronni told her that she was going to finish some projects for her sister. K'arta understood and the duo parted. K'arta headed directly for her quarters where she promptly removed her uniform and dressed in casual clothes. She groaned as she thought of the report she was going to have to write. Sitting down at her computer terminal K'arta quickly wrote down all the details she could remember then saved the file. Leaning back, she was glad to be home; in the correct universe with the correct stars and back on the Galaxy. Station Beta Two was a fine station, but K'arta was happier on the Galaxy, amongst friends.

Stretching, K'arta decided to go to the holodeck. She reached into a drawer and pulled out the program her father had given her. She left her quarters and went to the holodeck.

Stopping just inside the holodeck doors, K'arta slid the chip into the slot in the arch. The computer beeped in acknowledgement when it'd scanned the program.

"Computer, begin program." she stated firmly. *Let's see what Dad gave me.* she thought.

The holodeck gridlines disappeared and were replaced by green meadows bordered by a thick forest. Close to where K'arta was standing was a barn. She turned her head as a soft whinny eminated from the barn. As she approached she could hear the rustling of several horses. She slid the door back just enough to let her through and found an exact replica of the stallion barn at her father's horse farm. Walking down the line of big box stalls, she called to each horse by name.

"Hello there, Cimmaron." she said to a tall bay Thourobred. The horse nickered in answer. In the next stall was a Connemara pony. She stuck her hand into the stall to greet the small stallion and was rewarded with a nuzzle.

Moving on she found the Appaloosa stallion, Chief Thunder, the Quarter Horse, Ranger, a black Arabian named Shetan and a tall Tennessee Walker named Moonlight Ride. There were two empty stalls in the barn. In one she found all the tack for the different stallions. She turned and looked down the line and decided to ride the Tennessee Walker. She grabbed his bridle, saddle and blanket and approached the big horse. At his shoulder, Moonlight Ride stood a good six inches taller than K'arta. He lowered his head so she could put his bridle on, then she proceeded to tack him up.

The other stallions looked on with interest as she led him out of the barn. She slid the door shut again. With a leap, K'arta was astride the huge horse. She stuck her feet in the stirrups and gave him a little squeeze. The big Tennessee walker started out in his characteristic flat-footed, but speedy walk. She kept him at that speed until she spied a trail leading into the

forest. Slowing the gaited stallion down, she guided him onto the trail.

The trail led in a large circle and soon K'arta and her mount were back in the field surrounding the barn. Satisfied with her ride, K'arta dismounted and led her horse back to the barn. She pulled the saddle and bridle off the stallion and sent him back into his stall. She found a bag of carrots in the tack room and fed each of the stallions one of the orange treats.

She sighed as she left the holodeck, ending the program. She returned to her quarters and worked on the report some while eating dinner. Then she slid into bed.

The next morning Ronni woke her up to have breakfast with her sister. K'arta, Ronni, and Kra'lana told bad jokes, funny stories and talked about everything, but one could tell that they were still affected by Captain Zahn's death. K'arta was quiet while the sisters talked, it was a difficult time for both of them and she didn't want to put any more strain on them.

After breakfast, Kra'lana was called to Ops and K'arta and Ronni headed for the Promenade for some shopping. K'arta was amazed to see that most of the shops had been repaired and were back in business. As they walked along, K'arta pointed out where her team had run into trouble with the civilians. A few of the people on the Promenade looked at the Klingon and the Delphinian curiously as they passed, but the two ignored the strange looks.

K'arta and Ronni were getting ready to leave the station for the Galaxy when they spotted Commander Morris. She waved to the two and K'arta and Ronni waved back.

As the Galaxy's doors hissed shut behind the two, K'arta tried to lighten the mood. She punched Ronni lightly in the arm.

"Well, at least you get to look forward to harassing Troy and Derian again. Plus, Miran needs help to prepare for the wedding." she said with a smile.

Ronni returned the smile with a devious look in her eyes. K'arta caught the glint and laughed. Everything was pretty well back to normal on the Galaxy.

A figure appeared through the doors of the holodeck. The armor was a deep black shaded color, light almost appeared to fall into it. The shadow moved to the pavilion where most of the ladies had chosen to sit, bowed to pladge his allegiance, then moved off to the sword-fighting ring.

He was handed a splendid weapon, the blade itself seemed to be made of the same black metal that had forged his armor. The handle was carefully formed to the shape of an eagle's talon. He took a ready stance against his opponent, and prepared to fight.

The other man came at him, sword raised in a furious assault. The Shadowed figure easily sidestepped, and brought the handle of his sword down onto the upper back of his opponent.

The silver man stumbled, but then regained himself. He circled carefully this time, obviously more cautious. The Shadow brought his blade down toward the other, who blocked it. The fight continued for several seconds... parry, thrust, guard... parry... A shattering blow was delivered to the helm of the Shining knight, and he fell to the ground, unconcious. The Dark knight walked over and removed the sword from his fallen enemy's grip, walked back to the pavilion and laid it in front of the Great Ladies seated there, bowing as he did.

Chiron was enjoying himself thouroughly. He always loved the part of the mysterious black knight. He would wait to see who could recognise him first.

Suddenly, there was a presence in his mind. Dev? -+No fair, counselor, you cheated. Please do not reveal me yet.-+ He sent a mental smile, and rose to face his next challenge... one Joerg Sterner.

"Homecoming"
by Ensign Alan Clarence Hewson

"You must be Ensign Boudreau?" Captain Price addressed the woman standing to Alan's left.

"Yes, Captain. Ensign Mélissa Marie Boudreau at your service."

Price nodded then looked at the officer to her immediate right. "That would make you Ensign Hewson then 'mate?"

"Mate?" Alan thought to himself, "That's a new one."

"Yes Sir. I doubt you could get the two of us confused." Alan responded to the captain, managing a slight smile. He really wanted to get to his quarters and unpack his belongings.

"…Lieutenant Hutchcraft has managed to repair most of the Galaxy's damage, but is constantly in need of more bodies to carry out maintenance and repairs. You'll both be a welcome addition." Captain Price concluded.

"Thank you Sir." To his surprise, Ensign Boudreau responded to the captain at the same time that Alan had.

The door swished open as Commander Coe stepped into the room.

"…Excellent. Ensigns, this is Commander JT Coe, the ship's Executive Officer. If you'll each follow him, he'll show you to your quarters." The Captain instructed the new crewmembers. Alan and his new shipmates followed the Commander out the door.

Alan had lived on the USS Galaxy once before. While he was still a child, he and his family had spent two years living aboard the Galaxy in its trial run. His father had helped develop the engines of the Galaxy, and had taught Alan everything there was to know about the Galaxy at that time. Throughout the rest of his life, Alan had dreamed of once again living onboard this magnificent ship. His dream had finally come true.

"Welcome aboard the USS Galaxy. I know that you will enjoy your time serving onboard the Galaxy." Commander Coe told the new officers as he walked them to their quarters. "As you know, we are recovering from our encounter with the Void Cooperative. We're still trying to return to our normal lives, but with the loss of some of our crewmembers, many of us are still mourning their deaths. On a happy note, Lieutenant Deiran Casey and Lieutenant Miran Ti are getting married. You can check the daily news feed for the Galaxy in your quarters for the details." They reached the end of the hallway, and stepped into the turbo-lift. It was a rather tight fit, but everyone managed to get in.

"Deck 17" The lift began moving downward towards it destination after the command by Coe. "All of you have been assigned quarters on Deck 17. You can request a transfer if there is a problem." The turbo-lift came to a halt, as its occupants exited. "Ensign Harris, you have been assigned to room number 11; Ensign McQuire you have number 17; Ensign Hewson, number 25; Ensign Boudreau, 31; and Dr. Tash, number 37. Your belongings have already been delivered to your rooms. If you have any problems, please contact me. Dismissed."

Alan made his way to his newly assigned quarters. As he entered his room, he found his belongings sitting on the floor in orderly fashion. A quick check assured him that everything was there. Being an ensign, Alan's quarters we not very large. He did not have a window, due to the fact that his quarters did not face the outside of the ship. That didn't bother him too much, he knew the stars were out there. He inspected the bathroom, which met his approval. He unpacked his clothes and placed them in the drawers and the closet. Among his luggage were two cases, which held a large assortment of bottles containing many different-intoxicating drinks. He opened the first case, which also held a bottle rack that could be broken down into pieces for storage. He assembled the rack, and began placing his collection of bottles in their respective slots. He came across a bottle of Brazone Wine from Batazed, which he had picked up at Deep Space 5. He removed the cork from the bottle and stepped over to the replicator.

"Computer, glass number 23." An empty wineglass appeared at his command. He filled the glass half way with the blueish-grey wine. He always thought that Brazone Wine was the strangest looking liquid he had seen. The wine tasted bitter as it past his lips, but produced a sweet flavor as he swallowed.

"Home, sweet home." He said out loud as he raised his glass to toast the ship.

Ensign A.C. Hewson- TheFly@why.net

"A Surface Scratched..."
by Ensign Soushonn Arcas
with contributions from Lieutenant Devlynn Salshyar

Standing in the strong illumination of the cosmetic lamp in the washroom of his quarters, Soushonn Arcas looked back up into the mirror. He had never once in his entire life used anything other than the conventional metal blade to shave with, and he didn't plan on changing his habit anytime soon.

He was old-fashioned in his preferences... Mainly due to a mindset he had clung to since early on in life: Anything you grow accustomed to that is designed to make your life easier will only weaken you. Rely on what is guaranteed to you and you'll never be unarmed or defenseless.

It was a lonely philosophy... A difficult one for most people to accept, but Soushonn adhered to it as much as he could.

He remembered all of the times his father had taken pride in his self-reliance when he was a child.

"You could've put that boy's cradle down in the middle of the Ragrundi Waste Forests and he wouldn't have gained any more life experience through it." his father had said, speaking to some close friends...

"Every time I look at him now he looks more like a man and less like a boy. He's probably going to be a terraformer like his uncle. A pioneer. A frontiersman. There's no wildness in all of the galaxy that Soushonn couldn't tame with his own will. Heavens knows that he's basically conqured this ecosystem all by himself"

The voice faded into the blackness, his father's unmistakable laugh echoing into silence and leaving only the dull hum of the illumination device.

He closed his eyes for a moment, breathed out a sigh and looked back into the mirror.

He scrutinized his handiwork. After a year and a half of sporting the trademark Arcas T'mayran 'goatee' he was startled to see how young he looked when clean shaven. Each violet iris scanned his new look over for technical flaws. He couldn't see any, but he decided to make sure he hadn't missed anything by going over his routine once more.

As the blade neared his skin Soushonn jumped at the sound of the doorbell.

He winced, folded the blade into its handle and placed it in the small chest his great grandfather had given to him. With two fingers he wiped away the hairline of weakness that leaked from him and made for the door.

"Come" he spoke with some anxiety as he pulled on his relief uniform's vest.

Devlynn Erskaal Salshyar stood in the frame of the entrance until the soft hiss of the doors had ceased. She moved forward slightly, taking him in visually as she spoke "I hope I'm not intruding."

"Not at all." He answered. "Computer, increase illumination by 20%"

The Counsellor of the Galaxy's long locks of fiery red hair brushed against the sides of the doorway as she entered. Her deep, green eyes betrayed both a feeling of urgent concern and at the same time, a feeling of goodwill. The look one expects to find in a friend's eyes.

"I didn't know if you'd want to see anyone this early in the morning but I sensed that you were feeling distressed... I shared part of a nightmare you had tonight in my sleep. It was terrifying..."

Soushonn cordially pulled up a chair for Miss Salshyar and seated her, then himself sat at the comfortable table over which he had worked out many statistical analysis already.

"Counsellor, I'm actually very glad you came." he brushed the small cut on his face again as he explained. "I was going to book an appointment but I didn't want to disturb you. This is just a minor part of dealing with the goings-on within the Void... It's a sideffect of the losses we suffered..."

"Call me Dev." she noted, "You can always call on me, any time of the night or day. Especially if it is this serious. May I ask if this is a recurring nightmare? I sense that there is more to this than just a reprocussion of the Void."

He thought about it for a split second.

"It's a recurring dream... I just haven't had it in a long time. New wounds, old pain."

She nodded, sensing a sadness about him more than anything else now.

"Is this nightmare part of something that really happened to you? What I experienced felt more like a memory than a dream."

He stretched several muscles to alleviate some of the tension he was feeling and replied. "Yes, it was part of something that happened to me. Long in my past. Before StarFleet. It was a tough time of my life."

"Do you want to talk about it?"

He hesitated for a moment.

"Actually, please don't take this the wrong way, but I'm not ready to deal with those memories again. Not yet."

"Soushonn. I saw... I felt your distress... You can't hide from this, I know you know that. It's in your best interests to share..."

He looked as if lost for words, looking to and for until he simply replied "I know... I want to... But it's not that easy..."

She understood what he meant. She sensed in him an empathic barrier that he had himself created. But it wasn't enough. She could feel that he had suffered a terrible loss in the part of his life that had spawned the nightmare.

She sensed a feeling of emptiness, of solitude. She strengthened herself against the anguish buried in this man's heart and looked at him.

"I'm going to set you up on a regular schedule with me, alright? When you're ready to talk about these memories, we'll talk about them. In the meantime, we're going to work on how this is going to affect you psychologically."

He nodded, fascinated by an imperturbable glimmer in her eyes.

There was something more in Soushonn's mind to be said but he didn't know how to work it into words. He was already beginning to feel comfortable around Devlynn but he was uncertain as to where his past might lead him in the present... Impulse thinking brought him a satisfactory idea:

"Say, Dev, what would you say to discussing this further over breakfast?" he offered.

"A Moment to Remember"
By: Ensign Mélissa Marie Boudreau

Through a shimmer of blue light, Ensign Mélissa Boudreau saw a grey transporter room, her four transporter companions, and a few officers standing by the console. Finally, everything solidified. Mélissa was surprised to see that one of the people who had come to meet the new arrivals was Captain Price. She straightened quickly and hopefully no one noticed.

This was her first time on a Galaxy class starship (other than on the holodeck) and she was already impressed. But her myriad of thoughts would have to wait for a few minutes. The other Ensigns had been introducing themselves.

"You must be Ensign Boudreau?" Lee asked glancing at the short haired engineer.

"Yes Captain. Ensign Mélissa Marie Boudreau at your service." Mélissa was very nervous and hoped that it didn't show too much.

Lee nodded then looked at the officer to her immediate right. "That would make you Ensign Hewson then 'mate?"

Alan nodded and gave a slight smile. "Yes Sir. I doubt you could get the two of us confused."

Everyone seemed to smile at that. "No, I don't suppose I could do that 'mate. I'm glad to have a few more engineers aboard the Galaxy. Lieutenant Hutchcraft has managed to repair most of the Galaxy's damage, but is constantly in need of more bodies to carry out maintenance and repairs. You'll both be a welcome addition."

"Thank you Sir." both engineers managed in unison. Boudreau blushed.

Captain Price grinned. "Maybe I will have trouble telling the two of you apart after all..."

At that point, Commander Coe entered and lead all the Ensigns towards their quarters on Deck 17. All the while he was describing a little about the current events on the Galaxy. Finally, he left Mélissa at her quarters and everybody parted ways.

Mélissa entered her quarters and found her belongings by the door. Immediately, she began to

unpack and try to make the room a little less spartan. So far, she had been able to keep up with the new names but it was getting difficult. There were hardly any French names to speak of so many of the names were new and strange, especially the alien ones. She hoped she could remember all of them when she needed them.

After a while, Mélissa decided to take a little informal tour of the ship. Since she had met very few people so far, she hoped it would be a quiet walk. One thing she had learned so far in Starfleet however is that things never stay quiet for very long. As Ensign Boudreau walked to the turbolift, she decided that she would never forget this day, no matter what came up next.

Amélie

"Joust Kidding"
by Lt. (Jg.) Ronni Morris
Asst. Chief of Science, USS Galaxy

Ronni tied the coned hat to her head and tied the scarf under her chin. After readjusting it for the fifteenth time, she remembered why she didn't wear this hat last time she wore this dress.

She turned and headed out the door. The hat hit the door frame as she was leaving and nearly strangled her. Picking herself up off of the floor and readjusting the hat, she straightened the hat and headed for the turbolift.

As she turned the corner she saw that the turbolift doors were beginning to close. She started to run, forgetting that multiple layers of petticoats make running difficult. Her foot caught the hem and she fell forward and slid half way into the turbolift. Fortunately the doors didn't close on her. Unfortunately the turbolift wasn't empty.

Inside the lift was a woman and two children. The point of her hat was now wedged in between wall panels of the turbolift, about three inches away from a two year old girl. The girl didn't seem over surprised by Ronni's entrance, unlike the woman and the five year old boy, who both stared in shock. The little girl just calmly lifted her foot and kicked Ronni in the side of the head.

Ungracefully, she finally was able to pull herself up. She readjusted the now crumpled hat, and called out the deck for the holodeck party.

At her deck, Ronni exited the turbolift, remembering to duck, and almost tripped over the skirt again. She turned and entered the holodeck. and was pleased that the program had been so well designed.

She was led up the stand and given a position befitting a lady, crumpled hat and all. She enjoyed watching the matches, wishing she was in the fighting, but she had better plans. She carefully pulled out her PADD and implemented the changes she had for the program. When Troy Blair showed up, in his moment of Glory, he would get the pleasure of finding out what it feels like to be a Scotsman in a 'stiff' breeze. "I just hope K'arta is here on time . . . ." she said to herself.

"Logic"
by Ensign Christopher Thomas
Ops - USS Galaxy

*** Ensign Thomas' Quarters ***

Chris woke up the next morning, he felt refreshed and ready to go on life. He got dressed and gathered up his notes. He headed for holodeck 5, which he had resevered for today. He had more work to do and he come up with away to increse his work effort. Loci dictated that he work smarter and more efficently than just working harder physically. He noticed strange sensation as he walked by people, but he thought nothing of it, he was, now he wasn't sure how he felt.

On his way to Holodeck 5 he passed by Dev in the hallway, she was heading somewhere else. He was to busy to say hi to her anyway. Though when they passed Dev got a stange sensation, or more acurate a lack off emotional response from Chris. Though she was aware of his latent talents, she found it odd. He was in a hurry, so she figured that talking to him could wait until later.

*** Holodeck 5 ***

"Computer load program 'Thesis, Thomas' and rename to 'Nerural Network'."

"Program loaded and renamed, you may eneter when ready."

Chris walked into the holodeck, the doors swoshed behind him. A fascinating sound, he thought to himself. He looked at the room he was now standing in, someone might get the impression that it was a school room of some sort, but it wasn't it was a lab. He was going to need help to work on this project, he'd already decided on the most qualified help there was. However he was going to need more room to work.

"Computer increase the width of the room by 30% and the length by 20%." The computer went to work. The adjustment became apperant in a few seconds.

"Computer I want two more rolling blackboards and I want the half of the west also a blackboard."

"Modifactions completed."

Next step was to create the kind of help he had in mind in order to really work on this idea he had developed.

"Computer please create a holographic image of Lt.Commander Data and Dr. Soong. Then pull all available federation information on each and create a personality for each of them."

"It will take sixteen minutes to complete the requested function, due you wish to proceed?" The computer asked him.

"Yes I do, please proceed." Chris said he had already prepared to work with them and he really did need their help in this area.

Chris went back to work. He had this time brought a second PADD, which had replicated, a lot easier than paper was. He sat quitely working the questions, using on his mind and the PADD's to work the computations he needed the computer free to create his request. The next sixteen minutes he worked quietly.

"Programs complete, there will be an 6% margin of error in Data and 20% magin of error in the Dr. Soong, regarding their personality traits." The computer finaly annouced.

They started walking around looking at the chalkboards and the computer terminals that had been created. Both of them spent the next twenty just walking around reading what Chris had placed on the boards and the computers. Chris was fasinated by the sight, he only hoped that the computer had't forgotten to give them the ability to talk to him, or otherwise interaction would be limited do to the complex nature of why he needed their help.

"Young man you've made some mistakes over here with your latest calculations, everthing else does appear to be correct." Dr. Soong said standing by Chris' rolling chalkboard.

"Sir you appear to have the outlays for a positronic brain, is this what you're trying to accomplish?" Data asked as he studied a computer terminal.

"Please call me Chris and to answer your question Data, if I do I was unaware of it, although prehaps on a basic level that might be true. I am attempting to create a program that can learn to better manage power utilization on Federation Starships." Chris said, he knew that this was going to be wierd, but he had come to the decision that is was really the only logical choice he had avalible in order to proceed.

"Then you're not trying to follow in my footsteps, Chris. I figured that with Data have been built and working, other scientist would've already started!" Dr. Soong stated, it as a matter fact, that they should've already tired.

"Actualy they have to some extent, sir, but with the lack of notes to go on, building a positrionic brain is not the easiest thing to accomplish." Chris responded, he really needed to them on track, or else he spend the rest of his time debating with them.

"Gentleman, you are on the USS Galaxy in Holodeck 5, and blunty stated your are both holographic reprsentatins. Yes do have knowledge of who are or, I did that so I'd could readily interact with both you on my work. Dr. Soong my first step is to create a nerual network program that can improve any ship's efficent rating, shipwide. Now if we suceed in doing this, then you can discuss building a new andorid. Although I seriously wonder what Captain Price would think if I built an andorid on his ship." Chris said to them as walked over to shake both of their hands. The picture of the Captain's face seeing or hearing that someone had built an andorid on his ship, would be worth, whatever trouble he got later. Though the thought was increadibly appealing, he would have't to wait for awhile.

"Well then you're taking the right step toward builing a cousin for Data, but you're also right in that you need to finish, this step first. Then I came assume that you need are help in going though these steps." Dr. Soogn said.

"It is to bad that no one has figured how to allow holograms to exist outside of a holodeck. Although we could work on that problem as well, sense we are already here." Data said as he started to work on one the chalkboards.

"Oh yeh I can just see it now, me leaving this holodeck, with you two in tow. Then why stop there I could recincarnate the greatest minds in starfleet history. Sir Issaic Newton, James T. Kirk and who knows how many others. Well ok, power supply being limited, and time, maybe just you two. How long do you think it would take for word to get back to the captain that they saw me walking around with Dr. Soogn and Lt. Commander Data, or either just going out and taking a walk."

"If the Galaxy is anything like the Enterprise then it would only take 3 hour, 8 minutes for word to reach the captain, assuming that enough people saw us and took notice." Data responded. Though the question did not really need an answer.

Chris could't beleive he was even having this discussion, though it present some interesting possiblities. He thought about it for a few minutes and decided that he should go ahead and give it a try, there was after all nothing to lose.

"Mr. Data why don't you go ahead and get started on that idea, why Dr. Soong and I work on my current plan." Chris said, but there were so many unanswered question that where going to needed answering some day.

His time was up, so he saved the program. Then he added a new feature to the program that Data had mentioned to him. He made it so that both Data and Dr. Soong could continue working while he worked outside the holodeck. He could't wait to try taking them outside the holodeck, though already figured that direction would be limited, for he would mostly have to be carring some sort hand unit to start with.

Chris headed for the bridge.

"Arrivals and departures"
by Captain Robert Edward Lee Price

Things were slowly returning to normal on board the Galaxy. After repairs were completed on the Starship, Captain Price said his last good byes to Commander Morris, wishing her the best with her first command and Station Beta Two.

The trip back to the Alpha quadrant was quiet and uneventful, though some how the twinkling stars seemed just a tad more beautiful than before.

Captain Price sat back in his ready room, drinking a steamy cup of Bajoran coffee and reading a manifest of the crew transferees scheduled to arrive on the Galaxy when they rendezvous with the USS Excalibur. Nearly a dozen officers were scheduled to come on board the Galaxy, replacements for those lost in the battle with the Void Cooperative. While reading through the manifest, the communication system chirped.

["Captain. Lieutenant Sterner here sir."]

Placing the padd down for a moment, Lee looks upward, reaching for his mug of coffee. "Go ahead Lieutenant."

["Sir. I was wondering if you'd have a moment to stop by holo-deck two. I am working out the final details for Deiran and Miran's wedding program and I'd like to run them by you to make sure everything fits well."]

A smile finds a resting spot on the Captain's face. With all the recent battles and loss of life on the Galaxy, he was looking forward to participating in a positive event such as this wedding. "Certainly Mr. Sterner. We should be meeting up with the Excalibur in a few minutes. I want to stop by and greet our new crew members in person."

["That would be a change Captain."] Joerg mused.

Lee had to shake his head in silent agreement. His Chief of Security was correct. As Captain of the Starship, he'd often find himself too busy with other duties to personally great new crew members as they arrived. When this opportunity presented itself, Lee decided to take advantage of it. "I suppose you are right Lieutenant. I have been rather preoccupied for the last several crew rotations. Perhaps you'd like to join me in Transporter room one?"

["Sir?"] Sterner asked, surprised by the request.

"I have a couple of security officers coming on board with this group. And Cadet Campbell will be leaving us to finish his last semester at the Academy. I thought you'd like to say good bye 'mate."

Joerg slapped his forehead at the mention of Campbell's name. With all of his excitement and activity getting the wedding holo-novel together, he had completely forgotten his youngest, and sharpest trainee was leaving the ship to return to the Academy. ["Your right Captain. I wouldn't miss it for the world."]

"Very good Lieutenant, I'll see you there in a few minutes then 'mate. Price out."

Lee closed the channel and smiled. Sterner was one of his finest officers on board the Starship. The best Security Chief he'd had the privilege of serving with. Glancing over at his desk computer terminal, he tapped a finger on the screen where he'd put in to have the Lieutenant promoted to Lieutenant Commander. Though it wasn't official yet, he knew it would be approved once he got around to submitting it to Starfleet command. The Captain's requests always were. Deactivating his computer, Lee grabbed the padd with the manifest of new recruits, and his mug of coffee and exited his ready room on route for the Transporter room.

*********

*** Transporter room one ***

Lee entered and Lieutenant Sterner was already standing by, chatting with Chief Jensen. Both men smiled as the Captain walked in.

"G'day gentlemen." Captain Price greeted.

"Wonderful day Captain!" Jensen said happily.

Glancing around, Lee looked for Cadet Campbell, but when he didn't see him, he looked at Sterner. "Where is Campbell?"

Joerg shrugged his shoulders. "I don't know Captain. I haven't seen him since I got here."

A puzzled look formed on the Captains face, but not for long before the corridor doors swooshed open and the Cadet came hastily through, pack slung over one of his shoulders with his gear.

"Sir. Captain. Cadet Christopher Campbell reporting as ordered." Chris practically clicked his heals together as he faced the Captain. Both Jensen and Sterner started to laugh right then.

Lee reached over and placed a hand on the Cadet's shoulder. "Relax 'mate. You're among friends." He said with a smile.

Campbell relaxed slightly, placing his bag down on the floor. "Yes sir."

"Lieutenant Sterner tells me you've been an exemplary officer during your tenure on board the Galaxy Cadet."

"Thank you Captain." Chris said with a hint of pride.

"I just wanted you to know I've requested that Starfleet command assign you to the Galaxy upon your graduation from the Academy. We need fine young officers like your self on board 'mate."

Campbell's smile grew even wider. "Yes Sir!"

From the corner of his eye, Lee could see Joerg's own smile. He knew he not only was expressing his feelings for the Cadet, but his chief of security's as well.

The Comm channel squawked.

"Incoming transmission Captain. The USS Excalibur has arrived." Jensen started. "Ensign Burns is ready to transport over the first of the boarding crew members Sir."

Lee nodded. "Tell Ensign Burns to proceed Chief."

"Aye sir."

Captain Price, Lieutenant Sterner, and Cadet Campbell each turned and faced the transporter pad as it glimmered and shimmied in a glistening shade of baby blue. Five crew men materialized on the pad.

"Welcome aboard the USS Galaxy 'mates. I am your Commanding officer, Captain Price." Lee gave a slight, dignified nod of his head. Jensen, Sterner and Campbell each watched as the new crew members exhibited a range of reactions from stiffening noticeably, or smiling widely. Slowly they each stepped off the transporter pad.

Doctor Tash was the first one to actually speak. "Captain Price. Ensign Jurelle Tash reporting

for duty sir." The Trill officer offered her hand to the Captain.

Lee gazed upon her many spots and couldn't help but remember the last Trill officer he'd had the opportunity to serve with. His former executive officer, Commander Carla Gael, whom died on one of the Galaxy's very first missions. "Pleased to meet you Doctor Tash. I know Doctor Rousseau will be pleased to have another qualified physician on her staff."

"Thank you Sir. I look forward to meeting the Doctor."

Tash stepped to the side slightly and allowed the next person to offer his hand to the Captain.

"Hello Captain. Ensign Jeff McQuire, Sir. Your new Helmsman."

"Welcome aboard 'mate. I know Lieutenant Ti will be grateful to have you on board during these busy times."

"Thank you Captain. I look forward to taking the helm on this great Starship of yours."

"Ours Ensign." The Captain corrected with a friendly wink.

"Hello Sir. Ensign Harris, Quentin Harris. Your new Security officer."

"Yes, Ensign. Allow me to introduce Lieutenant Joerg Sterner, the ship's Chief of Security. You will be reporting directly to him."

"Pleasure to met you Ensign." Sterner said cordially.

"Thank you sir. I look forward to contributing to your fine staff."

Lee smiled and glanced over at the other officers that remained. "You must be Ensign Boudreau?" Lee asked glancing at the short hared engineer.

"Yes Captain. Ensign Mélissa Marie Boudreau at your service."

Lee nodded then looked at the officer to her immediate right. "That would make you Ensign Hewson then 'mate?"

Alan nodded and gave a slight smile. "Yes Sir. I doubt you could get the two of us confused."

Captain Price, Sterner, even Cadet Campbell smiled warmly. "No, I don't suppose I could do that 'mate. I'm glad to have a few more engineers aboard the Galaxy. Lieutenant Hutchcraft has managed to repair most of the Galaxy's damage, but is constantly in need of more bodies to carry out maintenance and repairs. You'll both be a welcome addition."

"Thank you Sir." both engineers managed in unison.

Captain Price grinned. "Maybe I will have trouble telling the two of you apart after all..."

While talking, the corridor doors opened and Commander Coe walked into the transporter room.

"Ah, Commander, just in time. You have our new crew member's room assignments I trust."

"Yes Captain, have them right here." JT held up a padd.

"Excellent. Ensigns, this is Commander JT Coe, the ship's Executive Officer. If you'll each follow him, he'll show you to your quarters."

With a motion of his hand, the new arrivals began walking towards the Commander and the exit.

"Ensign Harris." Joerg called out.

The Ensign stopped and glanced over at the Chief of Security.

"Ensign, once you are settled in, report to my office so we can get you your access codes and equipment. Say at 15:00?"

"Aye sir. That will be fine."

"Great. Dismissed."

The new crew members exited, following Commander Coe. Captain Price and Joerg Sterner turned to face Cadet Campbell.

"Well, looks like it's time 'mate. The Excalibur is waiting to take you back to San Francisco."

"Yes Captain." Chris said as he grabbed his bag and walked onto the transporter pad.

"Be sure to do the Galaxy proud on your final exams 'mate."

"I will Captain." Chris said, standing proudly, but slightly saddened at having to leave the ship.

"And be sure to say hi to Sneezy for me when you get on campus." Joerg called out, referring of course to the instructor with chronic hay fever.

"I'll do that Sir. See you in the fall. Good bye."

"G'day Cadet. The next time I see you, you'll be a Ensign."

A smile formed on Chris' face as the Captain said that. Turning the Captain ordered, "Do it 'mate." In a shimmer of light, Cadet Christopher Isaac Campbell dematerialized off the transporter pad, beginning his journey back to Starfleet Academy.

Captain Price looked over to Joerg and asked, "So 'mate, you had a holo-program you wanted to show me?" Lee took a final sip from his coffee mug.

"Yes sir. I think you're going to like what I've done."

"Well 'mate, lead the way."

Joerg smiled and walked out of the transporter room. Captain Price handed his empty mug to Chief Jensen, then exited right behind the Chief of security on route for holo-deck two.

As the doors swooshed shut, Jensen steps over to the replicator, placing the emptied mug into the receptacle and activating the button. In a shimmer of light, the mug disappears, having been reconstituted back into the replicator matrix.

USS Galaxy
Lt. Deiran Casey
"Morning Routine"

Deiran was just recovering from all the double duty he pulled in the Void. He’d caught up on his sleep and was feeling good. He was working out, as he normally did every morning before breakfast. He worked out religiously and was big for his size. Deiran was modest, when it came to his body, and didn’t take off his shirt or show his strength and toning to everyone.

He worked out the old fashioned way—with a weight machine. This one of course was designed and upgraded with 24th century technology. He also used the holodecks to jog about five miles and ride his bike another five.

He finished his workout, showered, dressed and headed for Ten Forward to have some breakfast. As he was making his way to the local hang out, people were congratulating him on his impending marriage to Ti Miran. He thanked them for their kind words, every one who spoke to him, and finally arrived at Ten Forward.

Some of the crew from Gamma shift were having a night cap, well it was a morning cap to everyone else. He saw his new Ensign, Ensign Thomas, eating a small bite before heading to bed. He walked over to the Ensign’s table.

"Mr. Thomas, may I join you?" Deiran gave him one of his friendly smiles and waited for a reply.

"Please Lieutenant, I would be honored," Thomas replied.

"I wanted to thank you for your gesture yesterday. Miran and I can use all the advice we can get." Deiran stopped, seeing that Thomas was going to reply.

"I have a lot to give, sir."

"Well, we’ll be on this tour together a long time Ensign, so save all the advice for now and give it to me sporadically throughout…okay?"

"Aye, sir."

"Do you mind if I eat with you Chris?"

"No sir, I would enjoy the company."

As Chris said this, Liam greeted Deiran, "Hi Deiran, what will you have this morning?"

"I’ll have a cantaloupe, a large glass of orange juice. Let’s see… some strawberries, a kiwi, a mango and a slice of watermelon."

"Is that it?" Liam asked sarcastically.

"Yep, that’s it for now." Deiran ignored Liam’s sarcasm.

Liam went to fill Deiran’s order.

"So Chris, how do like the Galaxy?"

"She’s a fine ship. Fine Captain. I’m proud to be serving on her, sir."

"She is a fine ship. And she has the best Ops crew in Starfleet. Save the Enterprise, of course!" Deiran loved to brag on his department, they rarely got the attention they deserved.

"Here! here!" Chris responded. A wry smile on his face.

Liam returned with Deiran’s breakfast. As he started eating, Troy came in, saw Casey eating and walked over to the table.

"Hey, Troy, have a seat," Casey invited. "This is Ensign Chris Thomas, my gamma shift Ops officer." Troy and Chris shook hands as Troy took the seat next to Deiran.

"Sure. You know Deiran, you should really eat more, you’re going to waste away with that kind of breakfast," Troy loved kidding around.

"I believe in eating healthy. I’m from Earth, and from a part of the American continent that likes eating healthy. Besides, it keeps me fit and trim."

"Yeah, well you’re going to need to be fit buddy. You have some fierce competition in this Medieval party coming up. We’re all not going to hand the thing over to you, even though it is in your honor," Troy laughed.

"As always my friend I invite fierce competition. I live for it. I have some surprises up my sleeve. I’ve been practicing, in fact I’m practicing today. Not only will I win, I’ll make everyone look like pretenders."

"You sound confident!" Troy blurted out.

"Yeah, well I’m pretty handy with a sword, bow and lance. The Middle Ages is one of my favorite time periods, I grew up learning how to sword fight, to joust and shoot a bow and arrow. I’ll be tough to beat." Deiran was getting a little too cocky. Just living up to expectations, he thought to himself. "Well this sounds interesting, I look forward to seeing you in action Robin Hood," Troy laughed.

"Me too, sir," Chris followed, careful not to laugh at his superior officer.

"Are you going to be in costume?" Troy asked Deiran.

"Yes, when I arrive I’ll be wearing a velvet black tunic and robe and unfortunately black stockings. I don’t know how the men of that day dealt with wearing tights for pants!?" Deiran didn’t like tights, "men don’t wear tights," he said.

"Yeah, well, I’d laugh at the thought Case, but I’ll be in them myself. Have you programmed your armor and heraldry yet?" Troy wondered.

"Yeah, I’ll be in shiny silver armor, made of light allow metals. It allows for protection and fluid movement. My heraldry is red, white and black. Four checks, white on red, a black line diagonal on the shield. A lion in the bottom white check and a gold eagle with spread wings in the top white check. It’s my family’s original heraldry. It’s something I’m very proud of actually. I had a lot of knights in my family. They fought in all the wars of their day and like Casey’s today, they managed to live long." Casey enjoyed answering that question.

"It’s just luck," Troy returned.

"Yeah, the luck of the Irish."

"Your Irish, sir?" Thomas asked.

"Yes, Irish nobility until nobility went the way of the dinosaur. My family fought the Vikings, the Romans, the English. My family have a proud history from the Middle Ages." Casey was proud of his heritage, no matter how outdated it was. He felt it was part of him, a part of his being, his character and personality.

"I’ve never heard you talk about it before, Deiran, why is that?" Troy wondered.

"Never came up in conversation." Casey’s computer alarm went off, "The time is 0715 hours."

"Well, I guess its time to report for Alpha," Troy said as he stood up. "Nice meeting you Chris," Troy said as he left for the bar.

"Get some sleep Ensign, I’ll see you later." Deiran said to the Ensign as he stood up from his seat.

***0720 hours—Main Bridge***

Casey sat at Ops. As always he ran a Level One diag on ship systems. And then checked the ship’s power reserves and secondary power. Then he leaned over and to his right, as he had been doing every morning since being on the Alpha shift.

"Good morning beautiful," Deiran greeted his fiancé with a kiss on the cheek.

"Hi!" Miran responded, that enchanting, gorgeous smile illuminating Miran’s lovely face.

"What are you wearing for the party?" he asked her.

"You’ll find out at the party," she replied, a shy, bashful grin decorating her face.

"Oh, it’s a secret, huh? Well, I look forward to seeing this costume then."

As Deiran finished, he noticed someone standing behind them. Deiran turned around and was met by the Captain’s gaze. He wasn’t mad, he was smiling. "If you two love birds are finished, we’ll start Alpha shift, is that okay?"

Miran turned around to see the entire bridge looking at her and Deiran.

"Sorry sir, we see each other for the first time every day when our shift begins, we usually show up earlier. I was late for breakfast. It’s a little hectic for me now." Deiran leaned back to his own station and started working on the power levels for engineering’s test on the nacelles.

"I was just kidding Lieutenant. You’re the talk of the ship right now, as the captain I have the right to give you some unwarranted attention."

"Yes, sir," Deiran smiled. He looked over his shoulder and noticed the eyes of the crew on him and Miran. This was getting weird. But, Deiran was famous for attracting attention anyway. He kind of liked it. He knew it was making Miran nervous and didn’t react to it.

Harris left the transporter room and followed Commander Coe who was to show him to his quarters.

Harris was the last to be shown his quarters. He entered to find a small but adequte sized quarters.

"Well at least I don't have to share" he said aloud to himself

He started to unpack his things and placed them in draws and around the room.

When he had finished, he found out from the computer that it was 1400 and decided to take a quick shower before he went to see Lt Sterner.

It took him about 30 minutes to have a shower and get dressed again.

He left his room and headed for the Security office. By the time he had found it, it was 1450 so he decided to enter.

He entered to find Sterner sitting at the desk.

"Sir, you wanted to see me"

"Inspection & First Duty"
by Lieutenant Joerg Sterner
Chief of Security, USS Galaxy

Captain Price and Lieutenant Sterner were heading for holodeck 2. While on their way, Joerg started to explain some of the features he already included in the program and some of his ideas, he hadn't programmed yet.

Upon arriving at the holodeck, they both entered and Joerg quickly activated his program. The scene suddenly changed from the yellow grid to the festival view of a middle age tournament. In the background the huge castle could be seen, which indicated that this tournament was being held by a rich and powerful ruler.

Joerg started to show the Captain some of the attraction first hand. He showed him the duel area, where two knight were fighting at the moment they arrived there. They fought each other with brutal and fierce attacks until one of them finally defeated his opponent. Captain Price was quite impressed by the details and the atmosphere his Chief of Security had put into this program.

"I have to congratulate 'mate. The whole place looks very realistic to me."

"Thank you sir." Joerg answered proudly. "It's my favorite time period from Earth's history." he added.

Captain Price nodded appreciating and Joerg continued his tour through his 'world'. They visited numerous attractions and the Captain asked Joerg many questions, which he answered as good as he could. Before they left the holodeck again, Lee asked his last question about the program.

"And what about the holodeck's security protocol?"

Joerg, remembering the incident with his wounded security officers, did not reply directly. Instead he went to one of the nearest knights and challenged him. He was given a sword to defend himself and soon a fight started. Since he didn't want to prove his skills with swords, Joerg only parried the blows from the knight with little effort.

Some moments later the knight made a quick movement and run Joerg through with his blade. The knight withdraw his blade from Joerg's body and was celebrated as winner by the crowd. But Joerg was still standing there and was very much alive.

"You see, I have also included this feature. It does not only prevent any physical harm to the party guest, but if any lethal damage would happen the holo-characters believe they actually have killed this person and are announced the winner for that round." Joerg tried to explain.

"Do that mean a holo-character could win the tournament?" Lee asked.

"It could be possible, but most of these holo-knights are no match for the party guests. After all this should be entertaining and not some kind of bow, sword, or lance fighting training program." Joerg replied smilingly.

Satisfied with their first glance at the program Captain Price and Lieutenant Sterner left the holodeck.

"I would be happy if you could join out little party sir." Joerg tried to invite the Captain again.

"I'll see if I find the time 'mate." Lee answered diplomatically. "But I'm certain it'll be a lot of fun. You've done a wonderful job here Lieutenant."

Joerg was very pleased to hear that from the Captain himself. After he realized that he hasn't answered the Captain a

nd was just standing there smiling, he quickly excused himself and went straight to his office.

************** Security office, 1445 hours **************

Joerg was sitting at his desk and checking with some reports of his, when he remembered his appointment with the new security officer Ensign Harris. Although he already had added him to his duty roster, he still needed one thing to do before Harris arrived.

"Sterner to Mulich." he said after tapping his com-badge.

[Mulich here sir.]

"Ensign, please report to my office at once."

[On my way. Mulich out.]

Joerg thought his idea over again. It was Ensign Mulich, who first introduced him to the ship and now he was about to be the tour guide for yet another Ensign of security. He smiled at this thought. Moments later his door opened and Ensign Harris entered.

"Sir, you wanted to see me" he said, while standing straight.

"At ease Ensign." he said. "Yes, I hope you already found your quarters and had time to take a look at some of this ship's attractions."

"Quarters yes, attractions no sir!" Harris answered.

"Well that's ok, there's plenty of time for that later. Here are your security codes." he said, after he stood up and handed him a PADD.

He also picked up the phaser that was lying on his desk.

"And this is your personal phaser. It is set on stun and unless you're on duty and the situation makes adjustments necessary, it must stay at his setting."

"Yes sir. I know the regulations for handing firearms aboard Federation ships." the answer came from the newly arrived Ensign.

"Well, and there is another th..." he was interrupted by Ensign Mulich, who just entered his office.

"Yes, that's what I was about to say. This is Ensign Mulich." he introduced the two security officers. "He will show you around the ship, explain you how things are handled here, and he'll be your partner for the next four weeks. This means you are in Alpha shift and you'll receive your daily orders from me at 800 hours every morning."

"I understand sir. Thank you sir." and with that the two Ensigns were about to leave the office.

"Oh, one more thing. There will be a wedding party for two of our crew members shortly. I would be happy if you also could attend this party. I'll forward you the invitation." Joerg added before the security officers could leave.

"I think this could be fun." Harris said, just before actually leaving the office.

After he was alone in his office again, Joerg looked up some of his sub-routines from the holo-party again. 'I hope this will be the perfect wedding party for Ti and Casey.' he thought.

Chiron strode over to Joerg, trying to think of how he would initiate combat. He wouldn't talk. Although he still had the capability to talk, he didn't use it due to the fact that he couldn't hear his voice to correct for any errors. He remembered from the dim recesses of one of his favorite Middle ages books that a slap of the gauntlet would be considered a call to battle. Chiron didn't want to hurt the man, but also wanted to show his strength.

He walked over to Joerg, who had his helmet in his hand, removed his gauntlet, then the glove underneath it. He raised the glove and deftly swiped it across Sterner's face.

The cheif security officer, obviously surprised, and possibly thinking it was a hologram he was facing, accepted the challenge by placing his helemt back on his head and entering the ring. They readied themselves, and began the match.

Joerg attacked Chiron by swinging at his side. Chiron moved to block, but Sterner quickly spun his sword in the opposite direction, catching Chiron in a small gap where his armor came together. 'That's a real sword...' Chiron thought as sword just slightly pierced his arm. Chiron was more cautious as he fell back to prepare for the next attack.

This time, Chiron took the initiative, attacking Joerg. He swung low, but Sterner blocked the blow. Chiron smiled behind his helmet, and twisted the grip on his sword. The blade writhed against Joerg's, and the Security Officer's blade flew from his hands. Chiron swung again for the final blow, but the unarmed man rolled out of the way, grabbed his sword, and knocked the dark sword away. Chiron reeled from Joerg's swing, and he took the advantage. Hitting Chiron's legs with the side of his sword, he brought the dark knight to the ground.

Chiron signalled his defeat, and Joerg offered his hand. Chiron took it, and got back to his feet. Chiron couldn't hear his voice, but the thought was quite clear. "Sir Knight, did I injure you?" Chiron thought quickly, then projected his voice into Joerg's head so he would think the knight was speaking to him. ''Tis nothing but a hair-splinter scratch, dear sir. Joerg, you are quite the swordsman.' Joerg seemed confused for a second, but realisation dawned as Chiron removed his helmet.

Joerg shook Chiron's hand. "You led me a good fight too, though, Chiron. It may not be much, but perhaps you should just go to SickBay and have a Dermal Regenerator run over that sword bite I gave you."

Chiron found this telepathic communication with a non-telepath tiring, so he merely nodded, and headed toward the Arch.

"Lousy, or Deadly shot?"
by Lieutenant Andrew Hutchcraft

It was time. The Chief Engineer dreaded each time he had to do this. He picked his implements carefully, studying their effectiveness in every detail. He touched the blade of each instrument, before selecting one that he considered to be the best for the job.

The Canadian then turned around, to face what was ahead. When he would finish, part of him would be gone. Maybe it was for the better, maybe it wasn't. All Hutchcraft knew, was that it had gone on long enough.

"I can't believe I neglected myself this much over the past few days in the Void ..." Hutchcraft muttered, taking the sharp razor to his face.

So busy with his new department, new crew and a mission he was not going to forget quickly, the moustache, beard, sideburns and miscellaneous facial hair that Andrew liked to get down, had grown significantly. He looked shaggy, and he didn't want to look shaggy. It might be alright for the warlike Klingons, but not for the young human it wasn't.

After he shaved off the various facial hair-growth, Hutchcraft looked at his hair. It had grown to about 1 1/2 inches in length. Andrew made sure to nicely style it, and began to look just a little more confident than he did before.

With his looks out of the way, it was time to look towards the festival that his old CO, respected colleague and friend, Joe Sterner, had organised. A Medieval event, complete with knights, bowman, damsels, kings and naturally ugly, smelly peasants.

Personally, Hutchcraft disliked the idea of wearing plate-mail, or green archers uniform. However, he was inspired by the facial hair he had just removed.

For you see, the Klingons were similar to one of the ancient empires of Earth, like many of the races that inhabited the Alpha and Beta Quadrants. The Romulans were similar to the ancient empires of Rome and Greece, the Ferengi the Capitalist western nations, and the Klingons, the vikings, and more importantly, the Mongols.

Hutchcraft smiled, nay, smirked with a fiendish delight. The Mongols under Genghis Khan was a mighty, powerful, *medieval* force. Joerg never said what *kind* of medieval period. He just said it was medieval. Turning up to the festival dressed as a skilled Mongol bowman would unexpected, yet correct for the time.

It would also act in Andrew's favour, since the Mongols had superior bows to the puny Europeans.

So the CEO made his way towards his replicator. Ordering a Mongolian battle outfit was not an easy task - Hutchcraft spent the best part of an hour researching designs, and programming them into the replicator. The Bow was made in the same way, and a quiver of 20 arrows was thrown into the bundle.

Hutchcraft removed his Starfleet Uniform, and became to suit himself up in the uniform. It wasn't as uncomfortable as Hutchcraft expected, in fact he was glad that he picked the idea. A silver-plate-mail suit would be a lot more uncomfortable.

To compliment the mongol clothing he now wore, Hutchcraft added some decorative, yet fearsome, jewelery to himself, making him look just that little more out of place. Finally, he attached the quiver to his back, and wore the bow along his shoulder.

The Lieutenant looked in the mirror. The hair wasn't right. Sure, it looked great on him, but it was unsuitable for the act he was playing. As a result, Hutchcraft created a helmet for himself, which disguised his short, clean hair, making him look just that little bit more realistic.

'Perfect' Andrew thought to himself 'You'd think I was a Klingon ..." Hutchcraft smiled once more, before putting on his best fearsome expression. He felt like laughing at himself.

Finally, it was time to leave his quarters, and make his way to the Festival.

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

Upon entrance, the Mongol was caught in a wonderous visage. Joerg had really put some effort into this one. Even the most minute detail was full of life. The Bowman walked through the festival, and took a good look at what was around him.

Familiar faces walked around, dressed in steel and cloth. Chain and Plate mail chinked around the festival, which pre-renaissance music filled the air. Thia appealed to the more tutored side of Hutchcraft's musical taste - after all, in it's day, this was progressive art.

As the Archer listened, he ran into the festival organiser "Something told me you'd do something like this..."

"Something like what, Joe?" smiled Hutchcraft, trying to sound more like Lieutenant K'arta or one of the other Klingons than himself.

Sterner smiled "Dressing like that, to a medieval festival!" Joe slightly chuckled. He had expected this kind of behaviour from his former Assistant Chief.

"This was the medieval dress for the Mongols, my good man. I am perfectly suited for this era." Hutchcraft laughed.

"Yes, but this is a more ... European festival, there weren't many Asians in Europe at this time" responded Sterner, trying desperately to counteract Andy.

Smiling, knowing that he would end up victorious during this argument, finally stated "Hey, you said nothing about it being European ... I thought it ..."

"Yeah, that's very funny Andy. I presume your entering the Archery tournament" Joe commented, noting the quiver of arrows and bow on the Engineer's person.

Andrew nodded "Where do I sign up ..."

"Over there" Joerg pointed to a target-range, just off the jousting ring. Hutchcraft smiled "Thanks, Joe, I'll see you later, alright?"

"Yeah, okay Hutchcraft, have fun!" replied Sterner, as the noble knight and the savage warrior parted company.

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

After signing up for the Archery tournament, Hutchcraft decided to get some food. Mongol food (if that was what you could call it) was neither on sale, nor did Hutchcraft want it. Instead, Hutchcraft wondered off to a stall maintained by a trio of Greek travellers. Greek food was something Andrew had never tried before, but there was a first time for everything.

He looked at a small price-list, with only two products on sale - Doner Kebabs, and Shish Kebabs. Either way, Hutchcraft got lamb.

"Hmmm, I'll have a Doner Kebab please" looking at a rotating slab of meat in front of a fire. He thanked someone, whoever it was, that the food was replicated.

The trio consisted of one lazy male, and two hard-workers. Hutchcraft guessed that Sterner had made it look like a father, and his two sons.

A piece of bread, which Andrew later learned was called pita bread, contained shavings of lamb, mixed with salad, chilli sauce, and also contained a lemon, tomato quarter and a long, yellow, chilli pepper.

Hutchcraft took one bit of the pepper, and immediately discarded it. It tasted awful. However, the rest of the early-take-away food was feeling and juicy. Hutchcraft stood there, blending into the background (as much as he could, though), while noshing on the greek delegacy in a quick, messy way.

As he did so, a voice was heard beside him "Sterner *has* put some time into this one ..."

Hutchcraft turned. It was Lieutenant Blair. Not someone Hutchcraft had spoken to regularly, in fact not someone knew outside of his profession. He looked at the human. Blair took a step back, as he exchanged expressions with the Mongol. Hutchcraft walked towards him.

"Greetings, friend, would you like some?" Hutchcraft offered a piece of meat from the greasy piece of bread. Blair daringly accepted. "Troy Blair, am I correct?" Hutchcraft asked.

"You got it, and you must be Andrew Hutchcraft" Troy replied, with a smile.

Hutchcraft nodded, and put out a greasy, fat-stained hand "Pleased to meet you"

Blair looked at Hutchcraft briefly, before politely accepting the handshake, immediately rubbing his hand on his leg afterwards. "Same, err, here. You here for the joust?"

"Nah, for the Archery Tournament!" Hutchcraft laughed, comfirming his bow.

Blair smiled "Of course ... that's an interesting outfit"

"I thought so too ...." returned Hutchcraft "Anyhow, I'm going to cheer on Sterner at the jousting tournament, and boo down Mr. Casey"

"But it's in Casey's on"

"So?"

"Why boo him down?"

"Because he saved my life" Hutchcraft turned to Blair, and smiled. Blair looked confused, and shrugged. As he did, they parted company, saying farewell as they did so. Hutchcraft wondered to the tournament, and began to watch the knights joust.

James Donovan

"Funny Hats, Funny costumes"
by Lt Ti Miran

More and more people where filling the holodeck. Ronni walked in and Miran almost lost it. On her head, was a cone with ribbons. She hadn't seen anything so funny. The two of them must have chosen different regions or times during the medievel times. Miran prefered her hair style to that hat.

The men's clothing was funny too. Some where walking around in tights. She did like the men that had already suited up in their armour. The hauberks were a sight to see. They were knee-length coat of linked chain mail with a hood that fit close to the head and neck and long arms that covered the hand like a mitten. Below their hauberks Knights wore chausses, mail leggings that hung from the belt. Leather or quilted linen was worn under the mail to ease the smart of blows that they forgot to block.

The best sight after the destriers and palfreys (the horses), were the falcons being shown off by the falconers. The hooded birds clutched at their leather gauntlets. Each of their jesses had bells to identify the birds. The dark brown eyes of one unhooded bird eyed her and blincked to show the orange yellow of the eyelid. She longed to stroke the dark slate crown but knew the bird would probably take her hand off.

Two knights on fine destriers were ready to joust. Miran took her seat so that she may watch. The knights saluted, leveled their lances and sped down the field at each other. One knight's lance splintered on impact. The other made a well placed hit that just about unhorsed the other had he not been seated well. A chunk of his shield was missing from the other's lance. On the second pass the one who's lance had splintered was unhorsed and he ended up yielding to the other. Now he would have to pay a ransom to the winner. Miran didn't know what the ransoms had been set at. In the ancient times, ransoms could have been anything from gold to weapons to even horses.

Finally Deiran found her. He was suited in his armour. He took her hand and kissed it. He gave her a flirtatious smile.

"M'lady, may I have the honor of carrying your color to triumph on the field today?"

"Flatterer." She tied the forest green ribbon onto his helm and then beckoned him to bow a little so that she could kiss his cheek before he put the battle helm on.

When she returned to her seat she found that Ronni had joined her. Now she could thank her for the beautiful and thoughtful gift.

"Ronni, thank you so much for the beautiful gift. It was really thoughful and I loved the Bajoran letter of peace. Oh, if I have my way Bobbie will be joining us if we go anywhere. She is a sweetie. Thank you for the offer." Then they sat back and watched the jousting continue and chatted about whatever came to mind.

"Message out of Nowhere"
By Dr. Jacqueline Rousseau

The vast space beyond the viewports was, to the visitor, scary. Space travel was a way of life now, but it still seemed that there were few that had what it took to travel in a place where the slightest miscalculation could send you light years off course. The stars could be enemies, cold and heartless, to the lost soul.

None of this applied. Jacqueline had never seen a more beautiful sight than the star-filled display before her.

She was in her quarters after shift, dressed in ANYTHING but the uniform that had become part of her skin in the last few weeks. In this case, it was a simple green tunic and gray slacks.

She had sent a message to her brother, assuaging his very vocal fears. She had yet to send one to her mother, and, for that matter, her mother had yet to send HER one.

Knowing it was just her mother's way, she shook it off.

And, oddly, there was a message from a very old academy friend, one she hadn't heard from in a very long time. And even stranger was the fact that the message was text only.

"Jacqueline,

It's been a while, hasn't it? Six years. I heard about your recent mission, and wanted to make sure you were all right.

I was posted to Outpost 224 after graduation. Sorry about the "Text Only," but it's all we could manage right now. It's truly amazing out here...I have time for my research. Biogenetics, you know. But there is something very interesting--unrelated to any of it--that I've come across. I thought you may like to know.

There've been cases where critically brain-damaged patients have not only recovered basic functions, but the whole working capacity of their brain! And this was without medical aid! They regenerated the damaged brain tissue on their own, and if we find out *how*, it'll be a breakthrough in medical treatments!

I can send you the info. Just ask.

Dr. William R. Blake"

"Will Blake?" It had been a while since she heard that name...a very long while. '"Six years."'

But this information intrigued her...spontaneous human brain tissue regeneration?

She immediately replied.

"Party!!"
By: Ensign Mélissa Marie Boudreau

Mélissa returned to her quarters after a surprisingly uneventful walk. There she found an invitation to a party on the holodeck.

"I love parties!!!!!!" Mélissa exclaimed to herself. Unfortunately, she didn't know enough people to feel comfortable there. At least it was a way to meet people.

She found a particularily beautiful dress in the computer files and replicated it for herself. Mélissa hoped she had found something from the right period.

She put it on and used old fashioned makeup. Finally, she was ready to go. She walked towards the holodeck feeling particularily conspicuous.

Mélissa found the holodeck without too much trouble thanks to her little walk. She stood outside the door and took a deep breath. Eventually, she walked in and saw many people in interesting costumes doing all sorts of interesting things. She walked in quickly, trying not to draw any attention and began to explore.

Amélie

Lt. Devlynn Salshyar (Dev)
Chief Counselor, USS Galaxy - NCC-70637

Dev left the Officer's Mess and headed for her quarters. She had to get that report on Lt. Chiron to the Captain this morning, and she forgot.

On her way back from her quarters, she passed a holodeck. It was empty but a program was running. She stepped in. "Good evening, young lady." She was attacked by an old man. "How are you this evening?" (NOTE: It's morning.) He looked at the other occupant, "Data, look, it's a friend of Chris'."

Devlynn shook her head. "Who are you?" She asked, incredulously. She could tell they were holographs, but still, they confused her.

"I'm Dr. Noonian Soong," said the elderly man. "And this," he pointed to the other, "is Lt. Commander Data." He paused, "or at least a holographic representation."

Dev nodded. She asked, "you mentioned Chris. What does he have to do with this? Where is he?"

They both looked at each other. "This is his simluation. He is constructing something new for the ship. He is gone right now, to see the Captain, I believe." The older man chimed in, right on cue.

"Constructing something?" She mused. "What is he constructing?"

"We are not at liberty to divuldge that information." Data added.

Dev sighed. "Okay, thank you gentlemen." With that, she left the holodeck.

Devlynn headed for the bridge, she could tell that that was where Chris was heading. From her classes at the Academy, she could tell that what chris was designing was a computer programme of some description. That would also explain Data and Soong.

She arrived at the bridge at the same time as Chris. They came in from separate turbolifts. She smiled and said hello. "Chris, I would like to speak with you at some point." He nodded.

She pushed the bell on the Ready Room door. "Enter." Came the response from within.

Dev walked into the Captain's Ready Room as he was sitting himself back down behind his desk. "Counsellor." He said. "How is that report on Lt. Chiron coming 'mate?"

"It's finished. Here it is." She handed him the PADD.

On it was the evaluation of Lt. Chiron, though they had only had a few scheduled appointments with each other, there was a lot she had learned about him.

The evaluation was very favourable. She noted that there was no indication of residual effects from the alien. The tests that Chiron had written were exemplary. He was showing excellent progress on the use of his telepathic abilities.

Her final word, he was prefectly fit for full duty.

Dev stood while the Captain read the report, when he finished he looked up. "Thank you, 'mate." He nodded his head.

"Sir, I would like to talk to you about this," she said, pulling at her uniform. "Do I have to wear this." She smiled at the thought she received from the Captain, "or, can I wear something more comfortable?"

"A Tight Schedule"
by Ensign AC Hewson

Ensign Hewson took another sip of wine as his body went limp in his new bed. With his wine glass in one hand, he propped himself up with his free hand as he read through the daily events on his data PADD.

"Wow, there's a chess tournament in Ten-Forward today," Alan thought sarcastically, "I bet that'll be a lot of fun. Perhaps if I drink enough of this wine, I might be able to enjoy it…" But that was no way to go. Getting drunk on the first day of a new ship assignment wasn't the best way to make an impression. Perhaps tomorrow though…

"What is this?" He wondered as his eye caught the list of holo-deck reservations. The article read: 'Remember Holo-deck 2 is reserved for the entire day today for Deiran and Ti's wedding party. Anyone attending the party must be dressed in Medieval costumes. Activities will include a jousting tournament as well as a dueling tournament. It is too late to sign up for an event, but all are welcomed to attend and watch.' After a quick glance at the ship's clock, Alan realized that the party was about to start. He quickly replicated a suitable costume for the time period.

"Good god…" The reflection in the mirror seemed to mock him as he turned around receiving the whole view of his new look. "Tights! Why the tights? The computer must have sense of humor after all." A rather puffy scarlet colored hat with a long yellow feather sticking straight up out of the brim was the top of the iceberg. He wore a vest (again scarlet) with thin black stripes running horizontal through the material. A golden snake wrapped around a lion decorated the upper left side of the vest. The shoulders were made up of a rather stiff golden material shaped into half circles, which stood up. His "pants" looked like a dark blue skintight swimsuit with golden trim. Underneath all of this he wore a black leotard which revealed almost every inch of his legs.

Still shocked and a little embarrassed about his outfit, Alan made his way to the turbolift. Suddenly, he stopped dead in his tracts. He sprinted (which turned out to be rather uncomfortable in the tights) back down the hall to his room. Alan had forgotten all about a wedding gift. He walked over to his bottle rack to pick out a wine that would serve as a nice present. He chose a traditional Earth wine, a bottle of 2335 Chateau de Tertre. He had to hurry to make it to the party. He ran back down the hall to the turbolift. The doors swished open to reveal a young male Ensign. The Ensign exited the turbolift, and as the doors closed behind Alan he heard the Ensign remark, "Nice legs."

"Oh shut up. Man, this party better be worth it."

"Through New Eyes..."
by Ensign Soushonn Arcas and Lieutenant Devlynn Salshyar

Soushonn smiled as he looked across the table at Counsellor Devlynn Salshyar. He found her words easing the stress out of his mind, actually visualizing his emotional state like an ocean returning to calm after a great storm.

He was about to begin his explanation of the nightmare again but held his tongue as a mess officer arrived at the table, asking if they wanted anything. He looked at Dev, the glance saying 'after you'

"I'll have a Betazoid Seven-Leaf salad, please. Oh," she smiled. "And some orange juice as well. Thank you."

The officer turned to Soushonn. "Hungry?"

He felt a pang of embarassment, usually preferring the comfort of cooking his own meals. He didn't hate replicated food, but his manner was such that allowing anyone else to cook for him was sort of like slacking off on one of his accepted duties. Nevertheless, he had been the one to ask Miss Salshyar to breakfast and it would be both suspicious and ignorant for him not to order anything.

"Yes, thank you, I'm quite hungry. One western style terran cheese omelette from a white-shelled unfertilized chicken egg, lightly garnished with spice, several slices of buttered toast and a glass of cool orange juice if you please." he replied.

The officer gave him an odd look, then shrugged and smiled. "Coming right up!"

Dev muffled a laugh.

"Did I say something I should be embarassed of?" queried Soushonn.

"Not really." she laughed, "Bit of a connoisseur when if comes to food, hmm?"

He raised a brow, not entirely dissimilar from the trademark gesture of interest often displayed by his racial cousins, the Vulcans.

"I cook a lot. People can often serve you something you don't want if you don't give them the exact details of the what it is that you do want.

For instance, a fertilized egg would spoil my entire meal... Why? Even if it is a replicated meal, it symbolizes consuming a creature that never had a chance to defend itself. I make it a policy not to eat anything like I didn't hunt myself. And I only hunt prey when circumstance demands it."

She nodded, amazed at how much sense the explanation was making. "I can sympathize with that. So why is it that you put so much thought into your food?"

"I'm simply maintaining my part of the natural order of things. I eat vegetarian mostly because a plant's lifetime is seasonal and because most plants don't have to be killed to provide you with sustenanace. Plants are the lowest ranking and most abundant item in the food chain, so they're the logical choice for a chief predator to primarily consume, given the choice."

He had obviously decided this after working through all of these justifications for himself... She was reminded of her biological studies credit back in the academy.

"I'm a vegetarian, but I don't think I've ever spent that much time explaining why I made the choice of this diet. Any reason why you uphold the tradition even when it's replicated food?"

Soushonn smiled.

"In the words of a famous historical figure whose name I don't quite remember, "Just because we can do a thing, it does not immediately follow that we must..." Just because one can eat replicated meat without taking a life doesn't mean that it's not breaking the habit.

Whether it's real matter that once lived or an imitation that never did, it still symbolizes the same thing to me. Besides, if I let myself slip out of tradition just because life's made it easy to right now, there's no guarantee that it'll be so easy tomorrow. I'd just as soon eat StarFleet TKLs 24/7 if I didn't enjoy cooking so much."

She shook her head and laughed again.

Their breakfasts arrived and they took turns talking and eating...

"So, care to tell me about the memories that 'spawned' the nightmare? Just as much as you feel comfortable with..." she asked.

"Well" he responded, "Firstly, can you tell me how much of the dream you saw? I can probably translate the situation better if I have a reference frame to work from."

She recalled the nightmare...

"Two hands, strapped around my throat. The life seeping out of me. The evil in whatever it was that was doing this... That's about it."

She shivered involuntarily.

"I'm sorry you had to experience that." he apologized, "I was working towards making life a little easier for myself to bear back on Kuria about eleven years ago. I had a really critical task at hand and had just discovered that I would have to accomplish it all by myself. My backup hadn't been able to assist me and I was all alone on a mission that looked impossible."

"Don't be sorry! You shouldn't feel apologetic for involuntarily sharing part of your history with me, Soushonn. You didn't choose to have that happen to you, you didn't choose to dream about it and you didn't do anything wrong that would require an apology of any kind!"

"Thank you. Sorry for apologizing without a good reason." he mused.

Dev laughed again. She had paid attention to every part of his dictum, though and wasn't through commenting on it...

"You must have been what, fourteen?"

He nodded, grimly.

"I don't know much of Kuria's history at all, but I do know that there was a global uprising against the government some years ago. Is this part of that?"

"This was in the aftermath." he informed her, "The Deadly Reigns Conflict lasted eighteen months and cost over a billion lives, including the life of my father and all of the persons I had ever known on Kuria up to that point. Innocent civilians paid the same price as mercenaries and organized rebels because the government 'didn't have the time or resources' to sift through the populace and weed out the guilty."

"That must've been awful. I'm sorry." she offered.

"Now you're apologizing without need." he smiled, "but I understand your sympathy. There aren't words for this sort of a thing..."

She returned the smile and nodded.

"Anyhow, the aftermath. During the Deadly Reigns, three separate rulers had commanded the government in turn, all of them remorseless scum that had only risen to power through murder and bloodshed.

It was this fact that allowed the rebels on Kuria to win back the government and destr