"Four Glasses"by Ensign Alan Hewson
"Four Glasses"
by Ensign Alan Hewson
"Drinks for everyone!" That's what Alan heard as the doors to Ten-Forward swished open. Everyone in the room was staring at a young man who stood with his arm around a woman. It appeared he had just finished a speech as everyone simultaneously burst out in cheers. Several crewmates walked over to the officer to shake his hand and pat him on the back. After taking a closer look, he recognized the couple as Lt. Deiran and Ti Casey.
Ten-Forward was abnormally crowded. Every table, seat, and barstool was occupied, leaving new arrivals to standing room only. Alan just stood in the doorway for a moment, taking it all in. A warm sensation came over him as he saw so many faces that had been missing from his life since he was thrown back into the past. These people were his family. It didn't matter if he knew them personally or not, but he now realized how much he cared for his fellow crewmates aboard the Galaxy.
Conversations continued from where they had left off when Deiran had called everyone's attention. Laughter could be heard almost non-stop as anecdotes about adventures that had taken place in the most recent time traveling experience were told. Appearing in the middle of a naked Betazoid wedding, waking up in the middle of the floor at Captain Kirk's trial on the Klingon Homeworld, and trying to explain to Vulcan parents why they had found a Starfleet officer hiding in their son's pet Sehlat cage were just a few of the stories heard that day in Ten-Forward. There were, unfortunately, some tales that ended in sadness and in death. These stories were told in quite tones over a glass of hard liquor. Alan spotted Ensigns Greer Erikson, Mélissa Boudreau, and David Mercury sitting at a table and walked over towards them.
"…And so she goes, 'Specialist, beam me down to Sigma II now!' So the specialist tells her he can't beam her down because everyone is beaming up. Then she places her hand on some kind of dagger she was carrying and growls at him. He just looks…"
"Wait a minute Greer! She growled at him?" Mèlissa asked with a look of disbelief on her face.
"Yeah, that's right. She growled at him. So anyway, he just looks at her at says, 'Certainly I can beam you down!' It was about the funniest thing I've ever seen!" The three of them broke down in laughter at the thought of Ensign K'Eytyanna Samara scaring the pants off of some Transporter Chief by growling at him.
"How's it going boys and girls?" Alan said as he walked up behind Greer. "It sure feels good to be back home!"
"AC! Glad you could join us." David spoke up as he saw his fellow Engineer for the first time since beaming back from the planet. "Why don't you just pull up a chair…" David stopped as he noticed that no seats were available. "Well, nevermind! Just pull up some floor."
"AC, you can have my chair," Greer said as he stood up. "I'll go grab another one. Just watch."
Alan sat down with a puzzled look on his face. The three of them watched as Greer made his way across the crowded room to a table where four men sat. He then semi-yelled "GET OUT OF MY CHAIR, SON!" One of the men quickly stood up and motioned for Greer to take it. With a huge smile on his face, he made his way back to his table, carrying his prize.
"How did you…" David started.
"That, my friends, was our frightened young Transporter Specialist I was telling you about." Greer said as he leaned back against the wall in his newfound seat.
"You know," Mèlissa said as she leaned forward placing her elbows on the table, "I've heard we've all got promotions coming. I heard some senior officers talking about it a few hours ago." They all leaned a little closer to each other, trying to keep from being overheard.
"Really? I mean, are you sure?" Alan's hopes rose to the ceiling.
"Well, I didn't hear our names exactly. But they did mention that there was going to be a lot of promotions in Engineering." Mèlissa's words put his hopes down a little, but the though of a promotion stayed in his mind.
"Thanks a lot! That really helps me!" Greer (a Science Officer) groaned as he crossed his arms.
"Hey, I'm sure everything will workout for the best! Now, why don't we celebrate our return with some Champaign!" Alan pulled a bottle out of thin air and placed it on the table. "Waiter," he called, "Four empty glasses please!"
Chiron had fallen asleep, and was napping quite peacefully, when he was suddenly awakened by a strong feeling of primal rage. Where... who... He thought as his eyes snapped open. He sat bolt upright on his couch, reaching out to identify...
Chiron winced with a stabbing pain to the abdomen. The pain expanded, and he could feel the other conciousness sliding away. The Tamarian quickly threw on a uniform, not even bothering with the rank or comm pin, and charged out into the corridor.
Using the wounded man as a beacon, Chiron quickly led himself just one deck up to Deck 6. He entered the Transporter Room, and found a man who looked to be half human lying on the deckplate, next to some sort of two-headed beast, and sandwiched between a few forcefields. He was bleeding profusely from a few large holes in his abdomen, most likely inflicted by the large horns on one of the foreheads of the creature.
Quickly, Chiron ran to the nearest panel, and entered his Engineering codes to lower the forcefield. He could not call for a Trauma Team, so he set the transporter to beam the two of them to SickBay. It was in the hands of the Doctors, now.
The Schizoid Man
"Emergency"
Written by Lt jg Kahn Nilani USS Galaxy
The Alarm went off.
"Computer End Alarm"
The Alarm turned off as I looked at the clock.
"No, No, No. I wanna die"
As she looked at the clock realising not long before she had to start her shift again. "Oh Well" she thought to her self "I better get up".
As she got her uniform on she walked out of her quarters and headed towards sickbay. As she walked through the door she looked over to the young doctor in the stasis chamber.
"Thank you Nurse" As she recived a Padd off the nurse.
She looked at the current days appointments and noticed Ti Mirians name on it and wonderd why her name would be on the list to see a doctor.
Written by Lt jg Kahn Nilani Assistant Chief Medical Officecr USS Galaxy
"Rest..."
By: Ensign Mélissa Marie Boudreau
Finally, Mélissa could rest. With the return of the rest of the crew to the Galaxy, she could return to her quarters and get a few hours of sleep. Eventually, she got up and realized that life was returning to normal, such as normal was on a starship.
On one fine evening, Mélissa decided to relax a little by going to Ten Forward. It turned out to be an interesting evening... There was an announcement from the Casey's about a baby, and then a story from Ensign Erikson about Ensign Samara. Eventually, Ensign Hewson joined herself, Greer, and David Mercury.
"How's it going boys and girls?" Alan said as he walked up behind Greer. "It sure feels good to be back home!"
"AC! Glad you could join us." David spoke up as he saw his fellow Engineer for the first time since beaming back from the planet. "Why don't you just pull up a chair…" David stopped as he noticed that no seats were available. "Well, nevermind! Just pull up some floor."
"AC, you can have my chair," Greer said as he stood up. "I'll go grab another one. Just watch."
Greer procured himself another chair in a rather comical manner and returned to the table.
"You know," Mélissa said as she leaned forward placing her elbows on the table, "I've heard we've all got promotions coming. I heard some senior officers talking about it a few hours ago." They all leaned a little closer to each other, trying to keep from being overheard.
"Really? I mean, are you sure?" Alan's hopes rose to the ceiling.
"Well, I didn't hear our names exactly. But they did mention that there was going to be a lot of promotions in Engineering." Mélissa didn't really expect a promotion herself but there were always possibilities.
"Thanks a lot! That really helps me!" Greer (a Science Officer) groaned as he crossed his arms.
"Hey, I'm sure everything will workout for the best! Now, why don't we celebrate our return with some Champaign!" Alan pulled a bottle out of thin air and placed it on the table. "Waiter," he called, "Four empty glasses please!"
After drinking a very small glass of the Champagne, Mélissa was ready to go. "Well, everyone, this has all been nice but I have some time booked in holodeck 2 and I intend to use it. See you all later!" She left the room after a small chorus of goodbyes.
A few minutes later, Mélissa entered holodeck 2 and ran her fencing program. "Computer, create a foil for myself and an opponent armed with a foil." A woman slightly taller than herself appeared. The Ensign hadn't done any fencing since she had come on board, but she had prepared her program. Everything was just right and she began the match.
Amélie Aka:
Ensign Mélissa Marie Boudreau
Engineering Officer
USS Galaxy NCC-70637
"Epilog"
by Captain Robert Edward Lee Price
Captain's Log Supplemental:
We are just hours away from sector 001. We set course for Earth immediately after the last of the Galaxy crew and away teams were transported back on board the Starship.
The alien reactor on Sigma II went critical just moments after the last of our people, and Doctor Currie's archeological team, transported up to the ship. The Reactor, evidently cooled by some sort of ionized Beryllium compound, has now totally polluted that planet's atmosphere. Doctor Currie speculates that the reactor's poor condition may have been why the original inhabitants of the planet abandoned this city. Chief Engineer Hutchcraft seems to concur. It was a great loss, however Doctor Currie's entire team is thankful that Ensign Thomas was able to save some of the artifacts from the planet's surface before the reactor exploded.
With Sigma II behind us now, Doctor Curry and her team have asked to be dropped off at Earth. Having contacted Starfleet Command, I'm told that there are a number of new crew transfers awaiting for reassignment to the Galaxy.
*****
Lee deactivated his computer monitor and glanced out the window of his ready room. The ship was proceeding at warp 8, as it had been for the last 48 hours. The Captain was determined to get Doctor Rousseau back to Starfleet Medical as quickly as possible so the delicate brain surgery she required to save her life could be performed by the experts in that field. Doctor Tash had been keeping the Captain posted of Jacqueline's condition. Lee knew all too well, that even if Doctor Rousseau did recover from her head wound, that she'd be in no condition to head up the Medical Department on board the Galaxy.
Leaning back in his chair, Lee pinched the bridge of his nose slightly. Yes, Jacqueline would need to be replaced. But that wasn't what was troubling him. He had just been informed by Lieutenant Hutchcraft, the Ship's Chief Engineer that he too would have to step down from his senior officers position on the Galaxy. When Andrew had told the Captain this, he was still in shock over the whole ordeal at Sigma II. Being thrown back into the past. The civil war. Seeing Ensign K'Trall killed. It was all overwhelming. And while Chief Science Officer Mitchell had insisted that no one from the Galaxy crew had actually traveled backwards through time, it sure did seem real enough to the Captain. His leg was still sore from his injury. K'Trall was still dead. Whether in the past or in some dream induced representation of it really didn't lessen that pain.
["Captain, we are approaching the Sol system sir."] Lieutenant Casey-Ti's voice said through the comm system.
"Very good Lieutenant. Take us out of warp and set course for Earth. I'll be out there in a moment 'mate."
["Aye Captain."] Miran replied before closing the channel.
Pivoting in his chair, Lee watched as the ship fell out of Warp and the Galaxy streaked past the planet Jupiter at impulse speeds.
"Time to review the crew manifest." Lee said to himself, "Promotions need to be made, and assignments altered to fill in the vacant spots."
As the ship cleared the largest planet in the Sol system, Captain Price stood there and watched. While his eyes took in the beauty of their own, home solar system, his thoughts were on the crewmen and women of the premier Galaxy Class Starship. A smile formed on the corners of his mouth as Lee nodded silently to himself. For in the Captain's mind, he knew that he was serving with the best crew in all of Starfleet.
"We are so very proud of you, Tebrianne, dear," Victoria Bancroft said, hugging her daughter.
"Thanks, mum," Tebrianne said, shyly. "All I did was graduate."
"In the top 5 percent of your class," her father added.
Her parents beemed, looking at her in her new uniform with single Ensign's pip on her collar. She looked quite different from them, despite the multihued hair and multi-pierced ears. Tebrianne's ears were pointed, as was the typical racial feature of both Romulans and Vulcans...of which she had the blood of both. George and Victoria were her adopted family, the only family she had ever known.
"Go on," she said, with a wave of her hand. "All it took was studying and hard work."
"We know, and we're very proud of you, dear," Victoria smiled.
"I've got to get going, mum, pop," Tebrianne said. "I'll meet you for supper tonight. I've got to get my things out of the dorm before they auction it off."
"We'll see you tonight dear."
"Cheers!" Tebrianne turned and headed for her Academy dorm room.
The graduation was fabulous. She was an officer in Star Fleet now, but didn't know where she would be posted.
It didn't take long to pack up her belongings. She didn't have much at the Academy, Tebrianne didn't need much. She had some clothes, her guitar, and her father's sabre. She got them stowed for transport to her new ship, whatever that may be.
As she was leaving the Academy grounds to meet her parents, the sun was setting out on the horizon. It was beautiful the way it glinted off the Bay.
"Ensign Tebrianne," a voice called behind her. A familiar voice, obviously, since whoever it was was calling her by her preferred name. She liked her adopted Surname, but it made her feel too...human. "Ensign!"
She turned, and saw Lt. Hawkins rounding the corner.
"'allo, Lieutenant," she said with a grin.
"Hello, Tebrianne," he said. "I just wanted at least one last time to tell you it was a pleasure instructing you here at the academy and I wish you all the luck in the universe in your new assignment."
"Thank you, sir," she said, her strong British dialect contradictory to the expected stoic speech of most Vulcans. "I really enjoyed your class. Most of what I learned about the helm of a Starship was in your class."
"Well, I just wanted to say goodbye before you were off in the stars again."
"Cheers, sir," Tebrianne said with a smile. "Whenever I'm back in this sector, I'll let you know."
"You do that, and I'll take you out for a drink if your duties ever bring you 'round Earth."
"Cheers, sir." Tebrianne waved to him, and trotted down the steps of the Academy.
***
"So, dear," Victoria said, as she, her husband, and her daughter ate dinner. "Do you know where you'll be posted?"
"Do you think they'll assign you to the USS Triumphant II?"
"I don't know, actually," Tebrianne said. "I've heard that the Triumphant is patrolling close to Cardassian space right now. I don't know. I applied for transfer to that one and the Enterprise. I don't know where they'll assign me. I don't think they'll keep me around here for long."
A young waiter approached the table carrying a PADD in his hand.
"Ensign Tebrianne Bancroft?"
"That's me, mate," Tebrianne said. He handed her the PADD.
"Well?" her mother asked as Tebrianne read the information as it displayed on the unit.
"It says here that tomorrow morning, I'm to report to Starbase 1 for my new assignment. I'm to report to Admiral Rames office at 0700."
"That's fabulous, dear," her father said, admiration and love for his daughter clear in his eyes. She would be his second child in Starfleet.
They finished the dinner while remembering the past, Tebrianne growing up, the band, her many different hair styles.
Once the dinner was completed, her parents returned to their hotel room. They would return to London in the morning. Tebrianne went home, well, what passed for home anyway. She would be living in a small furnished apartment until she joined her new ship. Tebrianne undressed, and slid into bed once she got to the apartment. After reading for an hour, she turned the light out and fell asleep.
***
"Destination?"
"Starbase One." Tebrianne handed the transporter officer the PADD she had received last night.
"Okay," he said, handing the PADD back to her. "Step onto the pad, Ensign."
She stepped over onto the transporter pad. Within moments, the world disassembled and reassembled around her.
"Welcome to Starbase One, Ensign Bancroft," an officer said, stepping closer to her. "Is that hair regulation?"
"Yes sir," Tebrianne said. "It is just within regulations, sir."
The officer, a lieutenant, smiled at her. "Okay, the Admiral is waiting for you in his office."
"Thank you, sir," Tebrianne said. She flashed him a quick smile before leaving the Transporter room. She found Admiral Rames office easy enough.
She rang the chime.
"Come."
Stepping through the door, she saw the back of the Admiral's chair as he face out the window.
"Ensign Tebrianne Bancroft reporting, as ordered Admiral."
"You can don't have to call me 'Admiral', Bri." the Admiral said as he swung his chair around.
"Michael?" Tebrianne squealed with excitement.
"Yes, Bri. Admiral Michael J. Bancroft to the rest of the universe, but for you I'm still Michael. Except on formal occasions of course, but this is hardly formal."
I can't believe it's you. How long has it been? Five, six years?"
"Five years, I think. I heard you were in the Academy, but I was busy out on the Nebula. I made it back in two days ago. It was a lovely graduation ceremony, but the best part was your graduation. I'm proud of you, Bri. I want you to know that."
"Thanks, Michael," she said, blushing.
"Have a seat," he said. She did. "So what have you been up to for the last five years?"
They talked for hours, not an Admiral and an Ensign, but a brother and his sister.
"Well," he said, after they finished talking about the time she got her first tattoo. "Fortunately, Starfleet isn't as scrict as it once was or you'd be in trouble there. But anyway, I'm sure you are dying to know where they've decided to send you."
"Actually,...I am," she giggled.
"Well, I know that you requested the Triumphant and the Enterprise, but unfortunately Captain Richards and Captain Picard were late to the punch. Captain Price wants you on the Galaxy."
"The Galaxy? Go on. The new one, the one that was just refit to be bigger and better than the Enterprise D? He wants me on his ship?"
"He noted your progress at the Academy and made a request last year that when you graduated next year, he'd want you on his ship."
"That's great...I've read about Captain Price. From what I've heard, he's a good captain."
"One of the finest in Starfleet, which is why I made sure that's where you'd go."
"You made sure?"
"Not a whole lot," he smiled. "But enough to stop Richards and Picard from fighting over you."
"I guess, thank you would be the appropriate response," she said with a grin.
"Yes, it would," he said with a bigger grin. "Now, unfortunately, I need to get to a meeting. The Galaxy should be in the system now. They should be docking in the next couple hours."
"Thank you, Michael," Tebrianne said, hugging her brother.
"Keep in touch, Bri," he said as he walked toward the door.
"Count on it," she said. "Cheers, Michael."
"Cheers, Little Sister."
Michael and Tebrianne left his office and went in opposite directions. Tebrianne went to where she could watch the USS Galaxy Dock.
"Learning Experience"
By: Lt. jg Thomas
Chris was happy to back on the Galaxy as he was sure everyone else was to, but things were different they'd lost several good officers to Sigma II. He didn't envy that captain who would have to inform the families of those who died. Chris had despite the hardships learned several things while going through this experience.
The first thing that he had learned or actually willing to admit was that he was in love with Dev. Who was the Galaxy's ships counselor and he was willing to admit it to himself and to her. Though as to where their relationship was going to head he couldn't say or predict that he only knew what he knew.
'Computer record the following message'
"Dev, I wanted to apologize for not being around when I should've and leaving Colby in you care. Yes I know that you enjoy having Colby around, but I have asked a great deal from you haven't told you thanks, nor how I feel. I know that words can't express the feelings that I have for you, but I wanted to try.
Dev, will you please join me for breakfast tomorrow morning around 07:00 hours in ten forward as I know that Colby needs his sleep. I think it is time we discussed the future.
Love, Christopher Thomas.
'End message and send to Counselor Salshyar'
I have also learned that I have been promoted to the rank of Lt. (jg) and thus I have earned the right to have more responsibilities, including serving on Beta shift instead of gamma Shift which is one of the toughest shifts to work on, being a human from Earth. I hope that serving as ops officer on Beta shift proves to agree with my body in its older age. When I was younger at the academy and even a year ago I could go without sleep or even with a little sleep longer than I can now. I guess I have gotten accustom to sleeping in regular intervals rather than sleeping whenever time permitted. Speaking of sleep it is time I turned in and got some sleep before tomorrow comes around.
[End Personal log]
With that Chris turned in for some long deserved sleep, as Colby was already a sleep and receiving rapidly from his bout with the flu or something.
Chris Patton
"All Normal"
Things where getting back to normal. Gary was on Gamma watch, the night shift. He hated that. He whished he where the chief helm, and got Alpha watch. He hated sleeping during the day, that was another problem. Now he was at the helm, on Gamma watch, three hours left until Alpha shift. The time took forever. Nothing was happening really, things where returning to normal.
Things where not that bad though, at least he was pioliting what was one of the largest ships in the federation. The Galaxy was still in orbit with Sigma II, as the last crewmembers where beamed aboard.
Lt.Commander Sterner was in the command chair, reading over reports, Ensign Chan was at ops, and Lieuteanant Greer Erikson was at science. The normal Gamma shift crew.
--Four Hours Later--
Gamma watch finally ended. Lieuteant Casey Ti Miran relived him. "Its all yours," he said. She smiled and took the seat. He entered the turbolift, and asked for deck 3, where his quarters where located. He shared his quarters with Ensign Scott from engineering.
Scott was not in the room when Gary arrived. Gary took a quick shower, changed into a black jumpsuit, and left heading for ten forward.
Ten forward was to busy for Gary's tasts. He left heading for a holo-deck. Holo-deck one was open, and he loaded his favorite program.
The glider, went gracefully through the air. He was going over the ocean, when the wind stoped. The gliders nose dipped down, and it went crashing into the water.
Gary came up gasping for breath. His side hurt. "Computer end program," Gary got out. The water on his suite dissaperad as the holo-deck program shut down.
He made his way to sickbay to have one of the doctors check his side out.
She and her staff were already being booked full of appointment for the crew members most effected by the occurances on the planet's surface. She had her own frustrations. All that she risked to attempt to alter the past in Salem, which by luck only had remained shrowded from the captain and the rest of the crew, had failed. Those deaths still occured. She had read the report from the Science department about the theory that they were never really in the past. She had to agree.
She had found herself growing closer to Chris and to Colby. She loved the child like her own. Colby had spent that night in Dev's quarters because Chris was working the late shift and Colby still wasn't healed from the mystery virus that had attacked him on the planet. Colby didn't hit it off well with the Doctor on his first visit.
Devlynn watched out the window in her office, while she reviewed the crew transfers and changes. She could see the familiar scenes of the Sector 001. It was a refreshing change of pace.
On the return trip, Devlynn had had a chance to talk to many of the archaeologists from the planet. She had learned a great deal, and it sparked a desire in her to learn more about archaeology. But that quickly passed when they explained the dirt and grime that one had to wade through in that profession. She concluded that Counselling was much easier on the nails.
As Devlynn turned to return to her quarters and to Colby, who was being entertained by the large telepathic bird housed therein, he entered the room. "Hello Colby." She said to him cheerily. "I thought that you were in my quarters with the bird."
"I was." She said, quickly. "But I wanted to talk to you about something..."
Lt. Devlynn Salshyar
Ten forward was crowded at this time of day.
Couples dining out in tuxedoes and night gowns, senior officers chatting it up before heading for the sack. Few if any, had breakfast at 2300 hours. This was the consequence of serving in the gamma shift.
" The view of earth is quite phenomenal from this part of Ten Forward." Said Janus.
John agreed, it was phenomenal. They were seated on the edge of the room, right where the duranium hull meets the floor. Of course John and Janus has been eating breakfast here for weeks, but they never got to sit this close to space ! Just beyond the glass was the ocean blue planet earth. The heart of the federation. Chan’s hands itched towards the glass that separated Ten Forward and the endless vacuum of space just beyond. " I’ve never seen anything this magnificent."
He still hasn’t gotten used to the idea of serving aboard a Galaxy class vessel, his life-long dream fulfilled.
" I have" Replied the Bolian, arrogant as usual. " Back on Bolarus IX, there use to be this ‘ride’. We sat in a cramp little shuttle and then they would launch us all the way up towards the upper atmosphere. Ooooh… The thrill ! And the sight ! Wonderful !" The blue skinned Bolian exclaimed, wavering his arms to impersonate the arc of a rocket then clapping them together to simulate joy. Chan tried to share his friend’s enthusiasm. " I’m sure that was quite an experience."
" Still, I guess there’s a second time for everything…" Janus grinned, turning his attention to his sausage and eggs breakfast.
He hasn’t changed a bit, thought Chan. They might as well be looking at a pair of morrassian termites and Janus would still find a way to chat it up while bringing up something he did in his childhood. In any case, John has to admit that the planet’s view from Ten Forward was quite spectacular. Unlike anything he witnessed before. It felt as if they were hanging on the edge of the ship, surrounded by space.
"Gamma shift is hard to get used to." Said Chan yawning, his voice faint." However, I still enjoy being on the bridge. In the middle of the action, you know."
" Incredible." Exclaimed the Bolian. "After all my months of hard labor and I’ve never even been there."
" Yes my friend, and if I’m really lucky we might even get attacked by another ship !" They both pondered joyfully at the marvelous possibility.
" If I had half your good fortune." He paused to take a sip from his drink, he told John it was something lt. Hutchcraft made for him in a party awhile back. The beverage’s texture was too similar to a can of Andosian gellychorals to look like anything tasteful. "I might spend tomorrow doing maintenance on some electrohydraulics systems. "
"Ouch… I heard those were a real bore."
"More repetitive exertion than anything. The high ranking engineers depend on us to do the dirty work they’re too arrogant to do themselves you know. " He paused expecting some kind of negative response from John, instead he was greeted with a large frown. It only grew bigger as Janus continued …"That means no EPS node repair, no inertial dampers to maintain, no sir ! None of all that glamorous stuff you read in starfleet technical journals . " He paused, looked around ."You see, they need hard working people like us to keep the ship together." His voice sounded more like a whisper than the outright declaration he is trying to give. " WE are the workhorses of a starship."
John’s frown turned to an outright laugh , he then lowered his voice to mimic his friend’s tone. "Afraid the senior officers might hear you ?"
" I would not do that !"Replied the Bolian, leaning back on his chair and pulling his arms to cross his chest in a gesture of resentment of John’s accusations.
Then they both relaxed and laughed out loud. The sound of their merriment poured across Ten Forward. How this reminded John of the good old academy days !
Then Chan stood up. " Time to go to work."
Janus nodded, he too had to work .
They both walked out of the room, chatting merrily .
"I was." He said, quickly. "But I wanted to talk to you about something..."
Devlynn looked to Colby, seeing the look in his eyes. "What is it Colby?" she asked, worry starting to take its place.
The young boy looked to the ground. "It's... It's... It's about Chris..."
The counselor closed her eyes. She thought about what Colby was about to say. Deep in her heart, she knew what he was about to say. She had been expecting him to say something about this for quite some time now. Even though it pained her, somewhere deep inside, she felt as though it would be good for him to say something about it. She opened her eyes. "Go on..."
"Chris is never... and he... has to work late... never has time..." Colby could barely speak, trying his best not to cry.
Devlynn felt her heart melt and kneeled down so that her eyes were level with Colby's. She saw Colby, with his head still to the floor, look with his eyes into hers. She felt as though she could cry.
Colby was so young to be going through such pains. A teardrop rolled down his cheeks and she put her hands on his shoulders, trying to soothe the young child. "Colby, I know what you're saying, and it's all right."
"It is?" he said with begging eyes.
"Of course it is... Chris can't really... he doesn't have the time to... It's hard to say this Colby, I know. I hate to think of it ending up this way but... Colby, we're going to have to find you another guardian."
Colby looked back to the ground and nodded a little. He felt more tears roll down his cheeks and he sniffled.
Devlynn didn't say anything more, but just embraced Colby. She knew that he was going through a hard time, and that she needed to help him.
"Excuse me.....Sorry!!" yelled Mac, to the startled yeoman as he sped past. He was late and he hated to be late. He was due in the main transporter room to meet an arriving crew member.
"Great." thought Mac, "I get promoted and the my first assignment is to play welcome wagon to an arriving counselor." he chuckled "Worse than that she's probably 60 years old and got the temperament of a Bolian cave shark."
He arrived outside of the transporter room, almost out of breath. The two weeks in sickbay had been terrible. After the second day he was chomping at the bit to get back to duty. But, Doctor Tash was a hard taskmaster. She hadn't even allowed him to get out of bed for his promotion, when Capt. Price and Lt Blair came to give him hi s new pip. He straightened his uniform as he stepped inside. Chief Streb looked to hi s wrist chronometer, as Hunter entered, a slight grin forming on his usually stern features.
"Right on time, Lt." the Chief said with a slight chuckle. "Not now, Chief . Okay?" Mac pleaded.
The Chiefs grin quickly disappeared as the voice of the sending transporter operator signaled the beamup. The familiar sound and shimmering effect of the transporter quickly faded, as Mac straightened his uniform and prepared to meet the new Counselor. What came out of the beam was not what he expected.
"Well, she's better looking that a cave shark." thought Mac as he approached the attractive Ensign and extended his hand. "Counselor Wilson? I'm here to show you to your quarters."
The smile that she returned was probably the most intriguing about the new Counselor. She seemed to brighten up the entire room when she smiled.
"Thank you and what is your name, sir?" she asked, never losing the smile, as she took his hand..
"Lt. McKenzie. Hunter McKenzie, and you can drop the sir unless where working." Mac smiled, the handshake was firm and friendly. "Nice to meet you, Hunter." she replied, still smiling. Hunter turned and motioned to the door, the smirk on Chief Streb's face, brought a stern look from Mac as he walked by.
"This way." he said, moving to the door. The walk to the turbolift was filled with conversation about the ship and its facilities. What did surprise Mac was when she asked about the Holodeck. It appears that the new counselor was an avid jogger.
"I already have several jogging holo-programs set up. I would be more than happy to let you use them until you get situated." Mac offered. Ensign Wilson nodded her agreement as they entered the turbolift.
"Deck 3" stated Mac as the turbolift started. The Turbolift was full of uncomfortable silence, on the short ride to its destination. Mac had a hundred questions on his mind as the lift stopped and the doors slid open. A short walk down the hallway , Mac stopped in front of the junior officer's quarters.
"Well, here you are Ensign." Mac said as he pointed to the door. " If you have any questions, don't hesitate to contact me."
"Thank you, Lt. Have a good day" She said, her smile seemingly increas ing in brightness.
"You too!" replied Mac she entered her room.
As the door closed, Mac started back to the turbolift, a smile playing across his lips.
"Defiantly, better looking than a cave shark." he chuckled.
The shimmering effect of the transporter faded, and Leslie found herself on board the USS Galaxy. She looked around the room. She was going to like serving on a starship.
A junior grade Lieuteanant was waiting for her. "Counselor Wilson, I will show you to your quarters," "Thank you, and what is your name sir?" She asked. "Lieuteanant Hunter McKenzie," "Nice to meet you Hunter," Leslie said, smiling.
She had her single bag on her left shoulder, and she followed Hunter out the door. "Do you know where I can find a holo-deck?" She asked. "Yeah," and he told her what decks they where on. "Thanks," she replied. She wanted to run. She needed to run.
She was finaly out of the acadmey. She really didn't like the uniforms. She just wanted to help people. Rank and everything else didn't matter to her. She knew other people had problems and she just wanted to help them. She knew what it was like.
They entered a turbolift. "Deck 3," The turbolift started. They waited in silence. It didn't take the turbolift long, Deck 3, only being 3 decks away.
"Well here we are Ensign," Hunter said, pointing to a door.
"Thank you Lieuteanant have a good day,"
"You to," he replied.
The doors closed. She threw the bag on the bed. She looked around. The quarters where small but would do. She unpacked her things, and started to decorate the room. Then she saw the computer terminal. She walked over to it.
"Computer any messages?"
"Two messages," the computer responded.
"Play message one,"
"Ensign Wilson, this is Salshyar, report to me as soon as you can,"
The second message was from her parents. It was the a pep talk. Be carfull in space, have a good time, and to make them proud. After it finished she got up. It was time to meet Lieuteanant Salshyar.
He nodded, "I know Dev," he said softly. "But," he added, "Chirs is never around. He's always so busy with the Gamma shift..."
"But he's been transfered to the Beta shift, now that he's been promoted." She said.
"That doesn't make any difference." Colby said, wiping the tears from his eyes. "He never has any time. He's always got one or another project going. He's never in our quarters. Why do you think that I'm always with you." He smiled for the first time since he entered her office.
"Colby." Dev said. "Do you want me to request to be your guardian? You spend most of your time with me now anyway. Besides, I just got another addition to the Counselling staff, that should ease my schedule a little." She added. "Oh, that reminds me, young man. Starting tomorrow, you have to go to school." She saw and felt him pull back from her. "I know that you don't want to. But it's a matter of necessity. You have a choice of being placed with students your own age, or at your academic level. That, my dear, is up to you." She smiled. He didn't.
"I don't want..." She cut him off.
"I know. I wisht that you didn't have to go too, but you do. I'll send a message to Captain Price tomorrow requesting a change in guardianship for you. I will put in a request, but chances are it will be put up for the whole crew to consider. And Chris has ultimate veto."
"What about me." Colby cried.
"Yes, you have a say in this too." Dev said.
She barely finished when Colby added. "I want you as my guardian! You're always around for me!!" He hugged her again.
"It's late Mister!" She chastized half jokingly. "You get back to my quarters, you can stay there tonight. The bird will let you in, as usual, when you ring the bell. I'll have you added to the security protocols for my door tomorrow."
Colby turned to leave, "I'll see you when you get back." He said.
"No you won't. You'll be asleep, right? I have to interview this new Ensign before I come back. Speaking which, here she comes." Dev said as the door swished open. Colby walked out of the room without lifting his head to the woman on the other side of the door.
"Counsellor Salshyar?" She asked. Dev nodded.
"Only one on this ship." She smiled. "And it's Dev." She looked at the Ensign in her uniform, which was obviously uncomfortable. "What are you doing in that rediculous thing?" She asked, grinning at the Ensign. "We don't usually wear them around here. They put the crew on edge. Especially the junior crew. That way no one knows whether you are an Ensign or a Commander. They don't feel threatened."
The young Ensign nodded. "Understood. I hate this thing anyway."
"And so you should!" Dev remarked. "Now, about your posting. You have your choice. I reviewed your Academy record and it was the best I have ever seen. Outside of my own, of course." She grinned at the Ensign again. "Like I said, you have your choice of posting. You don't have to decide right away, of course. You aren't scheduled for active duty for three days. At which point, you will be assuming your post."
Leslie smiled. "Alright." She said. "I have only one question. Where's my office."
Devlynn chuckled and stood. She walked out the door and pointed. "Down there, to the left. Last door." She added. "I hope that you find it to your liking." The Ensign began to walk toward her office door. Devlynn called after her, "you may schedule your own appointments, or you may have the computer, or myself schedule them. I prefer to schedule my own. Many of the Counsellors have the computer do the scheduling, but I find it too impersonal. It is your own choice." Leslie turned and walked into her Office.
"Welcome aboard the U.S.S. Galaxy," Dev said, to no one in particular, as she re-entered her office. The swooshed quietly closed behind her.
Lt. Devlynn Salshyar (Dev)
"Happiness"
Chris had spent several days with Colby visiting the holodeck and gym's to help develop a bond between the two of them. Colby had come into his life when he needed someone. Yes, had spent time with Dev, but it wasn't until this incident that he realized how much he need them to be around. He wanted to spend more time with them and as such had put everything else on hold, more less. He did still stop by to check with Data and Dr. Soong about things, but he wasn't spending as much time on that project, at least not until he and Colby were more like a family than just a guardian and a child.
Chris finished getting dinner prepared as he and Dev where having dinner at his quarters this evening. Colby was visiting with a friend of his that he had found among the other ship's children. Which worked out great for everyone concerned.
He placed the candles on the table, preparing for a romantic evening with Dev. He only could assume that his wife Gwyn would approve of his actions. He was after all trying finally to move on with his life, but never would he or could he forget the first woman he had fell in love with those many years ago. He would never forget her, but it was time for him to move on with his life. He had found Dev a woman that he had come to love and that he would marry someday. His life was looking up for him and that wasn't something that he thought would ever happen to him again, but it had.
Chris Patton
*** Observation Lounge, Starbase 1
Tebrianne watched the the Galaxy as it glided through Space Dock.
"It's beautiful," she said quietly to herself.
"Huh?" a young ensign said.
"It's beautiful, the Galaxy," Tebrianne said, not turning from the window. "She's a beautiful ship."
"Yeah, she is."
After the Galaxy had been secured, Tebrianne turned from the window, an excited gleem in her eye.
The ensign watched her walk away.
*** Transporter Room 2, Starbase 1
"Hello Ensign," the station transporter officer said as Tebrianne entered the transporter room. "Destination?"
"The Galaxy." Tebrianne handed him her PADD.
"Okay, all I need is clearance from the Galaxy."
*** Bridge, USS Galaxy
"Incoming message from the station, sir," Lt. Blair said from his position at tactical. "We're barely back yet, and we've got a bunch of our new crew requesting to come on board."
"By all means," Captain Price said. "Bring them aboard, mate. Bring all incoming transfers to Transporter Room 3."
"Aye, sir," Blair said, as he sent a response to the transporter officer on the station.
Casey-Ti Miran stopped by the tactical station to check the message from the station. Her new helmsman was listed as one of the officers ready to transfer.
"Good," she thought. "Nice to have her aboard early."
*** Transporter Room 2, Starbase 1
Tebrianne stood on the platform waiting for the Warrant Officer at the transporter controls to signal her that the Galaxy was ready for her.
"Okay, we have confirmation, Ensign," he said. "Energizing."
The familiar tingling of the transporter engulfed her, and Tebrianne's surroundings changed. She was aboard the Galaxy, her new home.
"Welcome aboard, Ensign Bancroft," a young bajoran woman said to her. "I'm Lt. Casey, Chief Helmsman aboard the Galaxy." She noticed the young vulcan on the transporter pad had purple, red and blue hair...obviously not your typical vulcan. But, Miran knew from Tebrianne's bio that she was Vulcan and Romulan, so it wasn't quite as shocking as it could have been.
"Thank you, Lieutenant," Tebrianne said, barely able to surpress her grin. "I can't believe I'm here."
"Well, I'm glad you are, Tebrianne," Miran said. "I can show you to your quarters if you'd like. Get settled in and all that."
"That'd be great," Tebrianne said, letting the Lieutenant lead the way out of the transporter room.
-------Erikson's Quaters--------------
Greer had made a number of good friends at the Starfleet Science Facility he had been previously assigned to on Earth, but now he had to begin the process all over again. On the USS Galaxy he found himself with a fine group of officers and was getting to know some of them very well. To Greer's knowledge there weren't any active regular poker games amongst the officers on the Galaxy so he decided to start one himself. Through conversation he had with other members of the crew Greer found a small group who seemed intersted in the prospect of a friendly game or two.
Erikson set up the table and grabbed a few extra chairs from around the room. Considering the limited supply of furniture in his quarters he found himself borrowing chairs from other people. He busily organised the scene before the others arrived. Erikson had been an avid poker player since he began his career in Starfleet. He good in the skill of the game, however, his nonaggressive nature made it easier for his competitors to tell if he is bluffing. Sometimes he was lucky enough to get away with it but he usually needed to rely on the strength of the cards he was delt. Hewson and Chiron had asked for a raincheck until the next game since they were on duty.
The door chime chirped. "Enter" Erikson announced. The doors opened and lieutenants Casey and Blair entered talking away about who would make the better player. The competition had already begun between them.
"Good afternoon sirs" Erikson greeted them.
"Erikson, You can call me Deiran," Casey suggested, "Only off duty though."
"Very well" Erikson responded.
The door chime sounded again, just as the door had closed behind Casey and Blair. "Enter" Erikson said. Mercury entered Erikson's quarters. Samara, who had just finished her shift an hour earlier, followed not long behind him.
Greer began shuffling the cards since he was the host. Samara starred at the players as if her Klingon side was attempting to make a stand and warn those that she was making a stance of her skill at this game.
"Relax a little K'Eytyanna" Greer said whilst he shuffled in an attempt to understand her tense posture. Samara simply looked back at him and smiled. Blair grabbed the chips they were using and began to distribute them to everyone at the table.
"OK folks. The game is five card draw poker and the odds are here to play!" Greer announced as if he was commentating a sporting event. The atmosphere was relaxed except for Samara.
As those present began the game. Jasey began her approach towards the players. She crept slowly towards the table knowing that if Greer saw her he would send her back in the other room.
After Erikson had delt the cards the players each looked at their respective hands. Greer picked up three cards. Samara picked up two. Casey and Blair continued without taking any cards. It was defintiely a stand off between the two of them. David grabbed one card. Everyone was looking at each other hoping to get some indication of their respective positions in the game. Samara's unique poker face gave not the slightest of a suggestion - a Human/Bajoran face with a demeanour of a Klingon - a perfect reflection of her genetic composition.
"Fold" Greer said placing his cards on the table.
"Me too" David followed. The two of them looked at the others hoping that their hands were of more interest than they had found their own.
With one pounce Jasey landed on the table. Samara who had already been tense from the moment she entered to room. She almost jumped out of her seat to take a defensive position but her Klingon reflexes halted as she realised what was going on.
"Jasey get off of the table" Erikson ordered his feline companion to remove her body from the pile of cards that littered the table top.
"Sorry about this"
"So that's you cat Erikson" Blair asked.
"Yes" he replied "I mean yes sir"
"Please keep it in you quarters from now on" he suggested "I wouldn't want the captain to trip over her"
"I have been trying to work out how she gets out but I am at a loss" Erikson replied in a hope that it would redeem him from Jasey's escapades.
"Off the table" Samara said hoping her commanding voice would convince the feline to remove herself. Ignoring her, Jasey continued to walk around the table greeting those she saw.
"Nice cat" David said.
"Thanks, she was a gift from..." but before Erikson could finish his sentence a loud clammour came from the other side of the table. Jasey roared off as if see was being cased by a Talerian hook spider. Samara jumped up and withdrew her d'k'tag ready to skin the little devil who had just scratched her. Preparing to follow in pursuit Blair, Casey, and Mercury had to restrain her from doing the deed.
"Oh great" Greer thought. That cat seemed to invite trouble where ever she followed him. At the Vulcan Science Academy it has been suggested to him to send back to Earth on more than one occaision.
"Be warned Erikson" Samara said in a firey voice "Do not let your animal cross my path again or she will not be so lucky"
-----------An hour later---------------
The game was never ressumed and Greer guests left shortly after. Samara had settled down. Greer was thankful that she wasn't entirely Klingon or Jasey would most certainly be in a new final frontier that had nothing to do with starships.
Casey and Blair suggested a new location for the poker game. Greer had no choice but to agree. But where? Greer began to pack away his cards when he thought about the using the holodeck. What would be appropriate though?
----------Holodeck 3----------------
"Computer, create a poker room from 19th century New Orleans, Earth" Greer said programming a suitable location to play a game of poker. At his request the plain holodeck room turned into a vastly different scene. In the centre of the room was a round table with five chair located on its periphery. The table was the tradition green that has been used by casino for the last few centuries. Looking around the room he noticed the level of detail that the program had included. The doors opened distracting Greer from his concentration on a painting. Casey and Blair walked in.
"Not bad at all" Casey stated "do you mind if I make a suggestion?"
"Sure" Greer answered.
"How about placing the game on a casino on a riverboat of this era. It would certainly add something different to the game."
Greer thought about Casey's suggestion. "Computer, place current room onboard a Mississippi steamboat. Same period of Earth history"
"The ship's name" Blair asked.
"How about Royale" Greer offered.
"Why not" Blair responded.
The three had continued to program the holodeck with multiple images. In an almost surreal style the simulation took on a whole new look from what Greer had initially envisaged. Although the setting was specifically a 19th century Mississippi steamboat the officers included some subtle elements which weren't entirely from the 19th century. Casey and Greer agreed that some music would certainly brighten the atmosphere and programed a jazz band in the background. Jazz as it existed to these two would not make it's scene for approximately another three decades or so in Human music history, however, it didn't really seem too out of place though.
"All set gentlemen" Casey announced.
"I believe so Deiran." Greer replied.
"And no cats this time" Blair said jokingly.
Greer looked at him. "Computer, save Holodeck Program Royale". The computer worked in response to his request. They were now all set for the game. Casey and Blair left the holodeck. Casey had said something about his wife and Blair was saying something which did not appear to be directed for the young science officer to hear.
Greer looked around while the jazz band played in the background. The music wasn't very loud but is certainly was soothing. The location was set but except for the band there wasn't much atmosphere. No life.
"Computer, add people" Greer said.
"Please specify parameters of request" the computer's stoic voice replied.
"Firstly add a crowd appropriate to this era". At that point a group of people appeared all around the casino by the magic of holographic projection. They were dressed in appropriate 19th century atire and seemed to bring 'simulated life' to the simulation.
"Better" Greer thought to himself. "Computer, save program and close" he said as he began to leave the holodeck. Everything was now set for the game now. Greer was pleased and looked forward to the game which had been interrupted earlier and hoped that this would be a regular event for the crew.
Electra finished up her shift in Ten forward and was in a huff. Her first day in her new position and she couldn't believe she had been barely noticed. As she served and wandered around the lounge she had walked slowly past some of the crew who were talking about the "game" tonight. If anyone had been watching her they would have noticed her body language as her head tilted to listen for snippets of the conversation. She moved on but returned with drinks for the table and lingered, smiling and trying desperately to catch the attention of those in the know.
Then came the announcement of an impending joyous event, with drinks for the house. Her thoughts returned to her own loss as a sick feeling crept into her stomach. The nausea pervaded her being. She couldn't slow down, if she thought she could not function, so the memories were pushed to the back of her mind and she carried on. Rapidly she had to move into high gear with what seemed like endless drinks being poured.
"It's a good thing this is synthahol" thought Electra, wondering how a crew would function should any of this be real alcohol. "I must make sure to meet the Chief Science officer. Maybe there is a small spare lab somewhere where I can make my Volourian liquers." Electra had always been fascinated with the multicolored liquers, who's flavors were enhanced by the individuals pallette. She had begun to learn the process for making then in her late teens on Orion, when it became required of her guardian. It became one of her pleasures, the process of mixing and distilling the intricate ingredients.
Her pace didn't let up until things quieted down and the crowds began to dispurse. The group that had mentioned the game had also left and Electra still feeling surprisingly unnoticed for an Orion woman tidied up and handed the next shift over to Carmella her early morning replacement.
She was still in high gear and raced through the corridor heading for her quarters. Entering her small quarters she kicked off her shoes, always preferring the comfort of bare feet and sat down to her computer.
"Computer, is there a gaming house on board the Galaxy?"
"There is no gaming house on board the USS Galaxy" came the austere voice of the computer.
"Is there a group that gather in one of the crewmans quarters for some gaming of some sort... is there something in the schedules indicating this?" frustration was rising in her voice.
"No, there is no indication of a scheduled game of any sort in the online schedules."
"Computer, what are the scheduled programs that will be running in holodeck 1 and 2 for the next 3 days?"
"Holodeck 1 schedule, 0800 ensign Chan has a Vulcan quartet scheduled, 1200 Ensign Barker has an earth rodeo program scheduled, 1600 Ensign Boudreau has scheduled a Betazed picnic, 2200 hours Ensign Erikson has scheduled a mid 1800's New Orleans Riverboat Casino, 0900 .."
"Computer stop." She said, satisfied that she now knew the location and time of this "game" that the group in Ten Forward had been discussing. "Now for the appropriate entrance" she thought grinning. Rising from her seat she stepped quickly to the shower. The warmth of the recycled water eased her frustrations and bathed her in anticipation of the entrance she would make.
Only minutes later she programmed the replicator designing a spectacular gown of the period. A fitted bodice in gold lamé, it clung to her body accentuating every curve as the skirt began fitted over her hips and gently swirled out to soften the entire effect. Electra stood gazing into the mirror as her hair changed color to drape in a beautiful auburn shade down her back. Her eyes needed no enhancement but to her lips she added a hint of ruby again derived from the plant dyes of the time period. Satisfied with her appearance, she smoothed the dress over her abdomen and walked out of her quarters with her shoulders and chest held high.
As she entered the holosuite all eyes in the casino turned to watch this stunning woman, her green skin glistening as she made an unmistakeable entrance... for an uninvited guest.
*****Observation Lounge, Starbase 1*****
Christopher Campbell smiled. The Galaxy had just left warp and was smothly drifting closer to Space Dock.
He had missed the Galaxy, all the fun, the crew and the adventures. It had been long and boring months at the Academy. Basic Starship Engineering with Sneezy. The mere thought of it made Chris shiver.
There was to be no more of that now. He had graduated the Academy (and done quite well, too. Altough he couldn't figure out how he had managed that) and had been reassigned to the Galaxy. The ship's saucer reflected the sunlight for a moment until it changed it's position and slid into Space Dock.
"It's beautiful," someone, a female, said quietly.
"Huh?" Chris looked at her and saw.... a Vulcan, maybe.... with purple hair!?!
"It's beautiful, the Galaxy," she said, not turning from the window to look at him. "She's a beautiful ship," she added.
"Yeah, she is."
"She can't be a Vulcan," he thought. "Purple hair, and she thinks the Galaxy is beautiful..."
Campbell watched her walk away. Not noticing him at all, with her eyes kinda gleeming. He shook his head in confusion and left the observation lounge.
*****Transporter Room 3, USS Galaxy*****
The shimmer faded away and Ensign Campbell looked around and stepped down from the transporter. Transporter Chief Jensen and a security officer were standing by the transporter controls. The security officer, a Lt. jg, nodded at Campbell.
"Follow me and I'll take you to your quarters."
"Thank you, Lt. eh...?"
"Lt. jg Arcas. And you would be?"
"Cadet... I mean, Ensign, Christopher Campbell, sir."
"Oh, and before I forget, Lt. Cmdr Sterner wants to see you in his office 0800 hours. Alright then, Ensign Campbell. This way to your quarters." With that he turned around and left the transporter room.
"Changes"
Captain's Personal Log, Stardate 49709.10:
The worst of this mission appears to be over. The Galaxy is presently orbiting Earth and things are slowly returning back to normal. Doctors Tash and Kahn have seen to it that Jacqueline was safely transported to Starfleet Medical to undergo her brain surgery procedure. The initial prognosis is good, however Commander Rousseau has yet to regain consciousness. I am told that it may be several weeks, to several months before she does.
I spoke to Doctor Tash about assuming the position of Chief Medical Officer on board the Galaxy. She accepted the new post with great enthusiasm and I'm sure she will do a fine job.
I also was forced to find a replacement for Chief Engineer Hutchcraft. In an unfortunate accident, Andrew's father was killed on Earth. In order to attend to the affairs of his surviving family, Lieutenant Hutchcraft has put in for a leave of absence "of unspecified length." Andrew departed this morning, beaming down to his hometown to attend his Father's funeral service. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Lieutenant.
That left the Chief Engineering position vacant. Lieutenant Chiron, being the ranking senior officer in that department and Assistant Chief of Engineering was offered the position. I was sure the Tamarian would do a fine job commanding that department. However, Chiron declined the position, instead preferring to remain as Assistant Chief. Chiron felt uncomfortable being in command of the entire department while he is still adjusting to his hearing loss. I suggested that he should continue his counseling sessions with the ship's staff to help him better adjust.
Since Chiron declined the Chief Engineering position, I felt it was only right to turn to the next senior officer in that department, Lieutenant junior grade David Mercury, rather than contacting Starfleet Command to have an outside replacement sent it. Lieutenant' Mercury has a solid Engineering background and is very dedicated to his work. I'm sure he too should work out nicely at his new position.
Several new crew members have come and gone from the Galaxy during this crew rotation. I will miss those that have left to pursue new challenges, and look forward to meeting those new crew members that have just come on board.
"Computer, end log entry." Captain Price stated.
The Computer acknowledged in the usual tones.
Lee glanced at the stack of padds that had accumulated on his desk. It had been a busy time for the Commanding Officer, filing reports on the Sigma II incident, signing death notifications for the families of crewmen like K'Trall and Enquist.
"I need a break." The Captain said to himself as he deactivated his computer monitor and got up out of his chair.
Walking onto the bridge, the Captain was greeted by a chipper Lieutenant Casey-Ti Miran.
"Hi Captain. I thought you'd like to know that the last of the crew members scheduled to board the Galaxy for this rotation are all safely aboard. We are clear to break orbit whenever you are ready sir."
Lee nodded. "Sounds good 'mate. I believe Starfleet has us scheduled to deliver some medical supplies to Outpost station 27."
Miran nodded, "Yes sir, I have seen the orders."
"Very good. Set course and break orbit when ready Lieutenant. Commander Coe, you have the Con 'mate." Lee said with a smile as he walked to the turbolift.
"Yes Sir." JT replied while shifting seats. "You heard the Captain Lieutenant, we have medical supplies to deliver!" JT said with a hearty grin.
"Aye-Aye Commander." Miran snapped as she saluted stiffly, then turned back to her console and began giggling.
Deiran just shook his head as he sat next to his wife at the Ops station. He was glad that things were finally back to normal on the Starship.
"Tragedy"
Incoming Message for Captain Price......
[I'll take it in my ready room.]
[Captain Price. We regret to inform you that Ensign Tony Grump has been killed in a freak avalanche while in Colorado skiing] says the Starfleet Admiral. [We have already notified his family and thought you should be the first to know on the Galaxy.] continues the Admiral.
[Understood. Price out.]
"Eternal Damnation !"
" What ? " He gasped, his voice was so faint that it was barely audible to the friend that stood next to him.
" Yes ! It’ true !" The Bolian replied.
It sent cosmic shockwaves through ensign Chan’s head. His spine twitched awkwardly , his hands shook incessantly, his heart beat raced through the roof. He had heard ludicrous things before, but this ? This was total blasphemy ! This could not be happening, it’s against all laws of physics ! Chan took a deep breath, as if to clear a nightmare that was haunting him. This could not and should not be taken seriously. However, the bolian would not lie about things of such magnitude. Things of such magnitude should not even be discussed, not to mention joked about ! Chan needed the truth, if he could only tell if his friend was lying or not…
Chan wished he was a Betazoid.
" You’re not lying to me are you ? " Asked Chan, his voice still a whisper.
" Why would I ? Why should I ?" The Bolian sounded convincing.
Chan had to think things over.
Janus wasn’t a good liar, and whenever he’d try to fool Chan. He would always twitch, whether it was his blue skinned neck, or a tiny muscle pull on his jaw. Chan could tell when Janus was lying. Then Chan would threaten not to kid with him. Next, Janus would try to recover from his embarrassment, he’ll make up some shallow excuse about his awful health condition. Chan would laugh at it, then all would be back to normal. They would continue living their precious life of total peace and happy harmony.
But not this time.
The Bolian didn’t twitch, his jaw was unmoving. He just gazed into Chan’s eyes, with unbelievable fierceness.
Terror struck Chan’s face as he realized Janus wasn’t lying.
" Y’y’you’re really not kidding ?" He needed the confirmation, no ! He didn’t want the confirmation. He wanted the bolian to laugh out loud and shout "Gotcha ! Had you going there !" .
But his hopes were flung light years away when the Bolian slowly shook his head . Confirming the dreaded news. For once in young Chan’s life, he was helpless, angry, frustrated, confused and saddened at the same time. Everything he had accomplished in his short career was over ! Everything he had done in his life was garbage. He would not breath the same way ever again. Ten forward food will never taste quite the same. His daily breakfast with Janus will never be as pleasant as before. All will change, his universe will collapse …
Oliver Chan has been transferred aboard the U.S.S Galaxy.
A light...
A large, extremely blurry globe of light...
That's the first thing that came into Soushonn's field of vision as he regained consciousness...
"Wh... Where... " was all he could manage before a spurt of his vital fluids drowned the words in his throat...
"We have to get the fluid out of his lungs before he drowns... "
A few slushing sounds are heard, beeping and buzzing, then several sighs of relief...
"They couldn't even find the peritoneum... That thing probably ate it."
"The colon has severe lascerations here, and is going to need to be reconnected to the small intestine here... The root of the mesentry's torn almost beyond recognition... I think the pancreas is outside the realm of conventional repair as well... "
"With the aorta and inferior vena cava both severed and the heart itself punctured, it's a wonder that he survived the trip here... "
"How'd you wake up!?!"
A small click to Soushonn's immediate right ended his brief operating table experience, the globe of blurry light above him once again fading into blackness...
* * * Six Days Later * * *
"So he's pretty much back to normal, then?" asked Lieutenant Commander Joerg Sterner, nodding towards his waking Beta Shift security officer.
"Normal!?! If he's always an arrogant, reckless, egotistical, half-witted, constantly complaining stick-in-the-mud then SURE he's back to normal!" retorted Dr. Nilani Kahn, who'd apparently spent some time getting to know her patient after his little accident.
"He should be ready for duty by our next assignment, Joerg." noted Jurelle Tash, the ship's new Chief Medical Officer. "But there may be residual effects from the cardiac arrest he suffered... The first parts of the human brain to give out after something like this are usually the higher motor functions, but since Ensign Arcas' anatomy conforms partially to his Rigellan heritage, the effects are somewhat unpredictable... The Rigellan anatomy could respond to a heart attack in any number of ways... I'll have him check in regularly to stay on top of his condition."
"Thanks" replied the Galaxy's Chief of Security, walking over to Soushonn's bio-bedside.
The lower-ranked security officer's eyes focused on the silvery sheets covering him before adjusting to regard Sterner where he stood.
"Joerg! Uhh... I mean Commander... I mean... "
"At ease, Lieutenant," came his reply... "You're not on duty... Yet..."
The two exchanged smiles, Soushonn laughing a little.
"'Lieutenant'? Is this the brain damage kicking in?" asked the bedridden brawler, sounding sarcastic, concerned and a little incredulous all at once.
"Not yet." quipped Joerg, prompting more laughter from Soushonn. "You've been promoted to Assistant Chief and granted the Lieutenant Junior Grade rank... Congratulations!"
"I... Lieutenant Junior Grade!?! I've been in Sickbay twice in the past two months within inches of death all because of my recklessness and I'm being PROMOTED?!?"
Joerg nodded, smiling.
"Wow... More chances for me to get into big trouble." reflected Soushonn, with that talent for sarcasm he'd always had.
"Definitely." laughed Joerg. "But for now, you just get to have the pip... No more running around tackling pointy objects."
"Gee, thanks." replied Soushonn, joining him in laughter.
"Keep it down over there!" yelled Nilani, obviously not a fan of people chortling in her SickBay.
"We've got some shore leave left over, Souse... Use it in good health and we'll see you on the first rotation, alright?"
"Definitely." echoed Soushonn, smiling.
As Joerg left, Soushonn felt strangely needful of something... But he was unsure as to what... He picked up the small crystal box in which sat the black-and-gold circular pip he'd soon wear as a Lieutenant Junior Grade and began to think...
He hadn't been back to Kuria since he'd won the Star Of Eucleydes as an HAF pilot... He'd have to catch a transport there and have someone on the Galaxy pick up Marveilleux's cubs from Starbase 304... They'd probably be a little restless since they'd already been waiting to be picked up since Tuesday... That was, if Silva had kept his word...
He sighed and laid down, secretly wishing he could just snap his fingers and be back home...
*snap*
"Computer relay this message to the USS Galaxy."
Captain Price I am deeply sorry but I will be unable to join the Galaxy's crew before you depart from Earth. I have been asked to testify in the Lieutenant McCarthy Case at the Starfleet Court in San Francisco. I am fully aware of your next mission and I should join you before you reach Outpost 21. The USS Sovereign will be rendezvousing with the Galaxy and this is when I will be joining the crew. Please inform my commanding officer, Lieutenant Blair, and any other personnel that could be affected by my late arrival. Also I have download your recent logs to bring me up to date on past events. I have transported most of my luggage to the Galaxy so I will not have to deal with it later. Captain have a safe voyage and thank you for choosing me to join your ship and crew.
Ensign J.A.Burns
"Computer end message and send to the USS Galaxy."
"Well," John said to himself, "time to go visit Aunt Mary Beth and Pat before I leave and more importantly pick up my ice skates.
************20 minutes later***************
As I arrived in front of Aunt Mary Beth's house I saw her on her knees weeding the flower beds. "John," she said excitedly," It's so good to see you." She ran up to John and gave him a huge hug and a kiss on the cheek. She then got a puzzled look on her face and stated "I thought you were supposed to join the USS Galaxy today. As I opened my mouth to explain to her what had happened her front door open and out came my cousin, Pat.
"John, It's great to see you but why are you still here?" he asked as we hugged each other.
"Well," I said, "Let's go inside so I can make so supper and I will discuss everything while we eat."
Pat and Aunt Mary Beth both agreed and I smiled as we entered the house.
K'Eytyanna walked along the corridor and stopped outside the door she was looking for. Tapping the door panel, she stood straight. The door opened and Lt Hutchcraft looked at her.
"Lt Hutchcraft, I just heard about you leaving the Galaxy, and wanted to tell you something important before you leave." He smiled and said,
"Come in." He walked back into his quarters and she stepped inside, a bit nervous about being in her commanding officer's quarters, even if he would not be for long. She gulped and spoke,
"From the time I came aboard, I found that you were an officer I could look up to with respect. For this, I thank you, and would like to give you a parting gift." As he turned, she handed him a small crest of her Klingon house before saying,
"You will be forever a friend, and I have come to think of you as a brother in my house. If you ever need help from my house, this badge will show that you are an honourable man, who deserves their help." Hutchcraft replied,
"This is a big honour, Lieutenant, and I thank you for it." She smiled before leaving his quarters.
*************************************
Bridge of USS Galaxy ....
Captain Price was finishing up some of Starfleet's paperwork when his combadge chirped as Lt Blair's voice came over the badge,
["Captain Price, we are recieving an subspace message from the Klingon High Council. However, the security coding states that it cannot be read by anyone on board except for Lt jg Samara."]
Captain Price looked up and said,
"Hmmm.. route it through to Lt Samara. If there is anything we should know, I assume she will tell us later. Price out."
*************************************
K'Eytyanna had just walked into her quarters, noticing that her combadge, sitting on the table where she had left it, was chirping. She put it back on and tapped it,
"Lt jg Samara here."
["Lt, there is a subspace message from Klinzhai for you. It has been routed to your quarters for the past five minutes, and comes from the High Council, so they might not be too happy about the wait."]
"Thank you. I'll answer it soon. Samara out." She ordered a glass of tequila from her replicator before walking to her terminal and sitting down, noticing the symbol of the Klingon Empire on screen.
"Computer, I am ready now. Display on screen and record to isolinear chip." The visual image of the Klingon Council Chambers appeared on the screen, with some members of the Council standing around the chair where Chancellor Gowron was sitting. Gowron stood up and walked forwards,
"Ahh, K'Eytyanna, Daughter of K'Mber. You still have fire in you, making us all wait just as you did when you graduated from Starfleet's Academy. Knowing you so well, you will be recording this." She smiled before replying,
"Chancellor, ghIlab ghewmey tIbuSQo'. ( Don't pay attention to insignificant things - literally Don't pay attention to glob flies ) My duties aboard the Galaxy were pressing, and it is not a slight to your honor." He nodded before speaking,
"We want to congratulate you on your recent promotion. You bring great honor on your house."
"Thank you Chancellor, members of the High Council."
"Your house also has some words for you now, so we will direct the channel to them for you. Firstly, I was wondering if you have reconsidered your decision to drop out of the Klingon Defense Forces."
She tried to keep anger in check but failed dismally. Baring her teeth, she growled deeply as she slammed her fist down hard on the table,
"Chancellor, the answer is no. not lay'hA' tlhIngan, ( No Klingon ever breaks his word ) and I have given my word to Starfleet." The Klingons laughed loudly before Gowron spoke,
"K'Eytyanna, you have shown that you do not lack butlh ( gall, literally dirt under fingernails ). Hovmey Davan. (I know you will honor your word - literally you salute the stars )" K'Eytyanna nodded before replying,
"pe'vIl mu'qaDmey tIbach, ( curse well ) Chancellor, members of the High Council." The klingons nodded before the channel switched to what she realised was the main courtyard in her house's compound in the capital. Her uncles, aunts and other relatives were standing around the courtyard. The head of the house, her uncle, stepped forward,
"K'Eytyanna, Daughter of K'Mber, you have done very well aboard the Galaxy. You have proven through your actions that you made a wise decision that has brought honor to you and this house. You are still planning to stay in Starfleet?" She growled deeply before spitting out a particularly nasty curse at him before speaking in Standard,
"I believe you know where you can stick that idea, Uncle." Some of her relatives tried to hide amusement at her near open-defiance as her uncle replied,
"In that case, I am proud of you, K'Eytyanna, and agree totally with you. Hovmey Davan, K'Eytyanna." He nodded to one of the others and the channel closed, the symbol of the Klingon Empire returning to the screen.
Her Klingon side spoke mentally, 'Bajoran, Human, I believe it is time to inform Captain Price of this, considering that it would have been recived here with an aura of mystery.'
*************************************
K'Eytyanna stepped out of the turbolift and onto the bridge. Looking around, she noticed that Captain Price was not there so she walked over to Commander Coe, who was in charge, as she noticed a few officers looking her way. The commander smiled and spoke,
"Lieutenant, Captain Price is in his ready room." She nodded before walking to the door and tapping the panel, hearing a chime inside. When the captain'
s voice called out for her to enter, she walked into the room and let the doors close behind her. Captain Price looked up and said,
"Sit down, Lieutenant. What do you need to speak with me about?" She sat down and put an isolinear chip on the desk.
"I recieved a transmission from Klinzhai, and I wanted to explain what it was about, including the high unnesseccary level of security. Chancellor Gowron is a close friend of my house, due to our house's loyal support during the Civil War with the House of Duras, and wanted to congratulate me on my promotion. He also tried to convince me to leave Starfleet, but I let him know where he can put that idea. The head of my house also congratulated me." Price nodded and she stood up as he said,
"Thank you, Lieutenant. You can go know." She left the room quickly.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Miran walked down to the transporter room to greet her new helmsman. Usually she didn't greet newcomers, but for some reason she had the urge to met this one. She hoped that she didn't let her shyness come over her.
"Welcome aboard, Ensign Bancroft," Miran started when the multi-hued haired new helmsman came onboard. Didn't uniform regulations state that hair had to be of natural coloration or was she getting confused with Earth military regulations she used when flying on the holodeck?
"I am Lt. Casey Ti Miran, Chief Helmsman aboard the Galaxy."
"Thank you, Lieutenant. "I can't believe I'm here."
"Well, I am glad you are, Ensign," Miran said. "I can show you to your quarters if you would like. You can get settled in and all that."
"That'd be great."
*** After Miran showed the new ensign to her quarters, she went back to her own. Deiran wasn't in yet but he promised to go with her to sickbay so she knew he wouldn't be too long.
Miran fished out a PADD from a desk drawer and began to finish the new holodeck program she had been working on. She had a program, in her hands, of a drive-in. Doing research to find out what a movie was, after hearing about Lt Shtik's movie, she became intrigued. She found references to a Drive-in just north of where the Stephin's lived. In fact, she had flown from the airport located next to where the Drive-in once was.
When they restored the airport, they obiviously didn't do anything to the site where the Drive-in was or she would have remembered it. Now, thanks to the modern technology of the holodecks she could recreate the drive-in. She had gathered as much information as she could including some preserved pictures and documents from the ancestors of the Stephin's.
Miran couldn't test it now though. The appointment that Deiran had insisted upon with sickbay was just a short time away. She put the PADD away and changed from her uniform. Deiran wrapped his arms around her, she hadn't heard him come in.
"Hi, honey," Miran greeted him with a kiss.
"Ready to go?" Miran nodded. They walked hand and hand out the door and to sickbay. Miran was edgy and Deiran down-right nervous but he braved it for her.
A nurse showed them to a bio bed to wait for a doctor for the appointment. Miran was ready to leave but she was good and waited for the doctor. They didn't wait all that long before a doctor came up.
John cooked a fabulous meal for his aunt and cousin. Afterward they discussed several topics over dessert and upon finishing all went to their rooms for a good nights rest.
**********Next Morning 07:00hours*************
John said good bye for a final time to his cousin and aunt and headed off to the University of Delaware Ice Rink to get his skates sharpened one last time. Also he wanted to say good bye to his coach who has been coaching hockey since John was a little boy.
**********15 minutes later***************
When John arrived at the Rink he immediately walked over to Brian Cusick, the best at sharpening skates around, and asked him if he could do a quick sharpening. After all he had to be at Starfleet Court at 08:15 hours.
John walked over to players bench and watched the current ice hockey practice. Searching through the people on the ice he finally spotted the person he was looking for, his hockey coach Dean Morris. Dean had coached John when he was little and they have had a great friendship. John called out his name and when Dean spotted the person calling his name he smiled and skated off the ice over to John They shook hands and Dean asked, "How you doing John?"
They continued the conversation for several minutes until John's skates were ready. They said their good-byes and John departed to the Starfleet Court House.
**********18:00hours*********
Having departed the Court House and done with all court duties John headed for Transporter Room 1 so that he could beam aboard the USS Sovereign. Swoosh, the doors opened to Transporter Room 1 and the Lieutenant(jg) manning the console looked up and smiled at me.
"USS Sovereign please" I said.
The Lieutenant(jg) smiled and said "step up to the pad quickly, the Sovereign was ready for departure over an hour ago. Shes been waiting just for you."
"I hope their not mad at me," I mumbled to myself. I stepped up to the pad and I told the Lieutenant(jg) I was ready.
"Energizing" he said and theTransporter shimmered.
*****
As I stepped off the pad a ensign said, "welcome to the Sovereign. We have been awaiting your arrival."
I said, "deepest apologies to the Captain."
He gestured to the door. " If you'll follow me please I will show you to the guest quarters."
After the Ensign made sure I was ok with the quarters, he went off to do his duties and I decided to contact the Galaxy and inform Captain Price that I am on the way.
"Computer record message."
Captain Price, I am glad to inform you that the Sovereign has departed Space dock at Earth and is headed toward the Galaxy to rendezvous. The Sovereign should rendezvous with the Galaxy at about...
"Computer pause message. What is our eta with the Galaxy factoring in the speed of both ships."
"At Warp 8 and Warp 5 eta will be at 05:01 hours tomorrow."
"Computer what is the time?"
"22:35hours."
"Computer continue recording message"
...05:00hours tomorrow. I wish to thank you again for the assignment and offer my apologies for not joining earlier.
Ensign J.A.Burns
"Computer end message and send to the USS Galaxy."
John was very exhausted from being up all day and changed into some sleep ware. He got into bed and said with a yawn "Computer lights out" the room became dark and John was sleeping in a matter of seconds.
By Ensign John Burns/Tactical Officer
"A Full Day"
Leslie awoke early. She had a long day ahead of her. She had six people to see today. She had let the computer make the appointments, she was going to let it do that for the first few weeks.
She picked up the Data PADD by her bed, which was on the small nightstand. She had to see Ensign Jill Brant, from the Science department. She had to see the Ensign at 0900, which was in two hours. She dressed, putting on the starfleet uniform.
She was adjusting to it. She picked up the Data PADD, and took it with her.
She started down the hall, heading for the turbolift. She needed something to eat.
When she arrived, ten-forward was almost empty. A few officers where scattered around the room. She sat down at the bar. "What can I get you?" The waiter asked. "Eggs, and a glass of milk," She replied.
The food and drink arrived a moment later. Leslie enjoyed the meal. She checked the time, 0800. One hour left. She headed back towards the turbolift.
An hour later she was in her office. Ensign Jill Brant sat accross from her, legs crossed. A tear was in her eye. "I just can't belive he's gone. Every time a close my eyes I see him, calling to me." The young Ensign was shaking.
"Its ok, Jill, just relaxy. What is he saying to you?"
"He's saying I should be dead, and he should still be alive. He's blaming me for his death,"
"Jill its not your fault. Your upset, because you weren't there when he died. You have to let your father go, Jill. He want's you to be happy, to enjoy life, and do what you can. Its not your fault Jill, just because you where not there, does not mean that its your fault that he died."
"You're right."
"I think you could use something to relax you, how about a trip to Risa on the holodeck. Relax enjoy yourself."
"I will, thank you Counselor," Jill stood and left the room.
Leslie took a deep breath. Five more to go.
The shuttlecraft landed in the shuttlebay with a clunk, and Lt Kane stepped out and breathed the air. It wasn't any different from the air on any other starbase or starship, but it felt fresher to him somehow. Kane glanced around to see who was around.
"Aahh.. Lieutenant! Welcome back 'mate!" called Captain Price.
Kane shook his hand, and returned the welcome: "It's great to be back, sir. I just hope I fit in in my new department."
"I'm sure you'll be fine. You've already shown your adaptability to new situations, and it will definitely favour you on your home ground."
Price pulled a PADD out of his pocket and offered it to Kane. "Here is your duty roster and the ship's crew list."
Kane waved it away. "I read it on the shuttle sir." Kane couldn't help grinning.
Price thought that Kane was perhaps one of the more organised officers he knew, and put on a look of surprise and put the PADD back in his pocket. Price led Kane off through the ship to his new quarters.
*** Deck 3 ***
"Sir... why the personal reception?" Kane inquired.
"I always want my new crew members to feel at home... even though you're not new." Kane and Price couldn't help grinning. Eventually they reached Kane's quarters. Price showed Kane inside, then silently reminded himself that Kane had been here before.
"There you go Lieutenant. Make yourself at home. See you next shift, 'mate." The Captain said, then left. It was going to be a lot more interesting with Kane on the Bridge now. His advice was always valuable. This crew was just getting better and better.
Lieutenant Kane
[Price to Mercury]
[Mercury here, sir]
[Please report to my ready room]
****************Captain's Ready Room**************
"We have a situation 'mate. I am sure that you have heard about Lt. HutchCraft's father, and his need to step down from Chief of Engineering. Well, Lt. Chiron was next in line to take his place. Unfortunately, the Chiron declined the position for reasons of his own. Instead of looking to Starfleet for a replacement, I feel you desire a shot at the position. How do you feel about that?"
"Sir, I would be honored to serve this ship as Chief Engineer and my only hope is that I prove your decision wise," David said with a smile that covered the room.
"David, you have already proven to me that you are a reliable engineer, I just need you to do what you do best."
"Thank you sir."
"Please review the Engineering duty roster and report back to me, dismissed," the Captain said.
*************************Ten-Forward******************
David walked down the corridor towards Ten-Forward with a stride. David was feeling on top of the world. I am now the Chief of Engineering! Oh my god, I am now the Chief of Engineering! The doors to Ten-Forward openned and David walked towards the bar.
"I can't believe we have been promoted to Lt.Jg. I can't get used to the different pin on my collar." Lt.Jg. Boudreau said as she ran up to congratulate David.
"Melissa I have something to tell you, please sit," David said as he lead her over to a table.
"Is everything alright?" she replied.
"Yeah, I would say so, I have just been promoted to Chief of Engineering. And I would like to inform you that you are now Assistant Chief of Engineering along with Lt. Chiron."
"....." Melissa's mouth dropped.
"Speechless, that the way I like it. I am counting on you and Chiron to be my right and left hands. I am not the most experience officer so it is going to take a lot of work and many mistakes to get through this." David said on a more serious note.
"Yes, sir," Melissa said with a stern voice.
"Hey what happened to David?"
"You are my superior officer and I need to treat that with respect"
"Well then my first order to you is to call me David, I am your friend before I am your superior officer," David smiled.
Daniel L. Josephs
Greer sat in Ten-Forward and found himself staring at the 3-D chess set near the large open windows which looked out into space. He couldn't believe it. Grump was gone. Greer laughed to himself. He cannot remember a single time that he had ever won a game against Grump. The name Grump linked itself automatically to 'grumpy'. For a Vulcan he noticed that Grump did get grumpy. Not in the normal outright Human meaning of grumpy, but just a subtle change in Grump's stoic nature but just enough for those who knew him to notice.
"A penny for your thoughts" Hewson said walking up behind Greer. AC had experienced his share of contemplating loss and could see it in Erikson's face.
"What?" Erikson responded as he became detatched from his thoughts.
"You know. A penny for you thoughts" Hewson restated.
"I could use a couple" Greer replied.
"I am sure the replicator could make a few" Hewson suggested in a somewhat brotherly tone. Greer smiled and actually considered doing just that. He appreciated what Hewson was trying to do.
The two sat there in an uncomfortable silence until Greer stood up. "AC. You'll have to excuse me. There is something I really have to do". Before Hewson could reply the young man was already making his way to leave Ten-Forward. There was something he had to do which AC had indirectly made him think about.
--------Holodeck 2--------
Greer had gone directly from Ten Forward to Holodeck 2. Just as quickly as he had left Ten Forward he entered the holodeck suite.
"Computer, access geographical files and create a simulation of the Somae City, Vulcan"
[Complete]
"Run program"
With that the barren room instantly became a dry and desert-like landscape indicative of that region of Vulcan. Greer found himself in the Vulcan city of Somae City where Grump had been born and where his parents still lived. This would be Greer's way of saying goodbye.
In the near distance was Mt. Tork'el which towered over the city, a dormant volcano whose protrusive nature could be seen for over one hundred kilometers around. There were, not unusually, many Vulcans around him who appeared to be 'enjoying' Vulcan urban life. Dressed in the mediatation robe T'Raal had given him after their graduation, Greer could almost blended into the sea of face except for his Human features which made him conspicuous. He had never been to this part of Vulcan and wondered around familiarising himself with his surrounds.
Greer made his way up to the summit of Mt. Tork'el and look at the massive panorama which confronted him. It was amazing. On a ship in space and the holodeck could still fool his eyes into thinking that he was looking at a landscape. Taking an appropriate stance he began mediatating in a traditional Vulcan style which he had slightly modified. It was a technique he hadn't used since T'Raal taught him at Starfleet Academy. He was rusty but he still remembered. In the solitude of the holodeck he reflected on the situation he was faced with in a hope to attain a level of peace.
After two whole hours of meditation Greer felt a strange calm. He stood up and stretched his relaxed body.
"May you find peace" he said looking over the simulation of Somae City. "Computer, end program."
Colby sat on the floor, his knees to his face. His arms were hugging his legs, which he held onto tightly for no reason in particular. He was tired, wearing only the clothes comfortable enough to suit him in bed. All that he wore was a plain white tee shirt with a pair of soft, cloth shorts that ended about two inches above his knees. They were the perfect clothing for bedtime. Everything that he needed to get a good night's sleep.
Colby looked around the quarters, noting how much larger they were than Chris' quarters. He stared up to the ceiling, trying to guess how high it was. He stared at the cool carpet, trying to think why they would choose this particular color over another. He stared at the blank walls, disgusted at the bland color. He stared at all of Devlynn's trinkets, curiousity welling up deep within him. The urge to take a closer examination of the items was extremely tempting to Colby, but he denied himself the opportunity and didn't dare touch them.
Colby's small bare feet felt even more bare as they touched the carpet. He slightly rocked back and forth, back and forth, back and forth, getting the total feeling of the carpet against his feet. He raised his small hand for a moment, examining it closely, making sure that it wasn't dirty. After satisfying himself, he grabbed a foot in each hand and continued to rock back and forth, looking here and there and everywhere.
Suddenly, the door slid open and Devlynn stood in the doorway. She looked at Colby for a moment with a look of scorn on her face. But, within seconds, she couldn't help but smile widely as she saw the cute child sitting on the floor. "And why aren't you in bed, Colby?" she said, a huge smile prominent on her face.
"I dunno," Colby said, smiling back at the counselor.
At first, the statement suprised the counselor. Normally, Colby's accent was extremely proper and formal. He never spoke as he just had. She felt herself grow somewhat uneasy with this, but Devlynn remembered that Colby was still a very young child, very susceptible to the environment around him. It clicked with her that after spending so much time around the crew of the Galaxy, his accent was just naturally adjusting accordingly. She smiled. He was adjusting just fine to life on the Galaxy. "Young man, you know you have school tomorrow." She knew that she shouldn't smile so, it would just make Colby feel as though she was joking, but she couldn't help herself. He was just too cute, sitting on the floor by himself in that childish manner.
Colby looked up shyly, with his head at an angle. "I know," he said. He rocked back and forth slightly, knowing that he was putting on quite a show for Devlynn. He liked it when people looked at him so, thinking of him as being so cute and shy. That meant that all the attention was on him.
Devlynn walked over beside Colby and took a seat on the floor beside him. She turned her head and looked over to him, seeing the shy smile on his face. "What could be so interesting that it would keep you from going to bed, eh?"
"The walls. The ceiling. The floor. All the neat stuff you have on your shelves." Colby gazed around, noting each object again in his mind. Remembering where each and every thing was.
The counselor pondered his response for a moment. She looked at the walls, the ceiling, the floor, and the trinkets she had collected throughout the years. She thought of how amusing and interesting they would be to such a young child. "Yes, they are very interesting, aren't they?" she said with a sparkle in her eyes.
"Yeah. You've got some neat stuff in here," Colby said, continuing to smile shyly.
"Well... I don't know if my 'stuff' needs sleep, but I know something that does." Devlynn smiled as she spoke.
"What?" Colby said, even though he knew the answer.
"Cute, adorable little boys like you," she said, squeezing him tightly.
Colby looked at Devlynn for a moment, looking her in the eyes. The counselor had such a loving look on her face, smiling greatly. The look of a mother smiling...
The moment faded quickly as Colby suddenly stood up, walked over, and hopped up on the bed, happy as can be. He quickly made his way under the bed sheets and sat up in the bed, looking to Devlynn, giggling and smiling.
The counselor walked over to the bed and sat down beside Colby. She turned towards him and laughed for a moment. She smiled as she saw young Colby finally yawn. He had been through quite a stressful day. She raised her hand and gently ran it through Colby's soft hair. "Tired?" she asked.
Colby nodded slowly, showing obvious exhaustion from the day's activities. As Devlynn ran her hand through his hair again, he lay down, feeling his back relax. He looked up at her and smiled. "Good night Devlynn."
Devlynn saw Colby close his eyes softly. She leaned over and gently kissed him on the forehead. "Good night Colby. Sweet dreams."
Colby smiled slightly, his eyes still closed. Tonight, for the first time in what seemed to be ages, he would have sweet dreams.
...Chirp...Chirp...Chirp...Chirp...
"What the hell?" John said as he jumped out of bed ready to defend himself.
...Chirp...Chirp...
"Computer lights on." He looked around while shading his eyes from the light trying to see who or what that noise was coming from.
...Chirp...Chirp...
John spotted what was chirping and he bursted into laughter.
"Computer dim lights fifty percent."
...Chirp...Chirp...
He reached over for his comm badge laying on the table and tapped it.
"Ensign Burns here."
'Ensign, Captain Blair has requested you see him as soon as possible.'
"Understood. Thank you sir."
"Computer, what is the time?"
'The time is 03:58 hours'
"Hmmm... Computer disable alarm clock. I wonder why Captain Blair wants to see me."
John began to get dressed into his uniform when a thought suddenly struck him. "Oh my God, Captain Blair must be mad at me for arriving late and delaying his ship."
He worried about this for about another minute and decided that this couldn't be the reason Captain Blair wanted him. After all, he thought to himself, "its not like I was late for a recreation reason. I was in Starfleet Court."
He was finished dressing by now and he decided to eat breakfast after he spoke to Captain Blair or maybe he could wait until they rendezvous with the Galaxy in an hour.
"Computer what is the location of Captain Blair?"
'Captain Blair is in his Ready Room.'
John stepped out of his quarters and walked down the hall into the turbolift. "Main Bridge."
John felt slightly nervous about walking onto the bridge of another ship and seeing all of these unknown faces. It would be different on the Galaxy when meeting people because he had read their bios and seen pictures of them. The turbolift stopped and the door swooshed open. He was surprised when of all the people on the bridge only the tactical officer glanced over and looked at him. John walked straight toward the Ready Room staring straight ahead since he was still a bit nervous. He chimed the door and a voice said, "enter."
John entered and walked towards Captain Blair as he was doing some work with the console.
"May I help you?" the Captain of the Sovereign inquired.
Snapping to attention, "Ensign Burns reporting as ordered sir.
'At ease Ensign.'
"Yes sir," as I relaxed a little.
'I have called you down here for several reasons. First the Galaxy increased its speed to Warp factor 7 around 02:00 hours. We believe the Galaxy increased speed due to Outpost 27 being very low on medical supplies. Even with the increase of speed we will still be able to catch up to the Galaxy before Outpost 27 is reached by Her. The new rendezvous time is 09:15 hours.'
'Now I would like to ask a very small favor of you.'
"Yes anything sir," as John was somewhat confused as to what Captain Blair would ask for him to do.
'I would like you to tell Lieutenant Troy Blair, on board the Galaxy, that I said hello and not to worry, someday he will be Captain of his own ship.'
At that moment it struck John for the first time. He did remember that Lieutenant Blair's bio had said the Blair family has held many positions in Starfleet for many generations. John couldn't believe it, Lieutenant Blair was the Chief Tactical Officer and his commanding officer and he is related to Captain Blair.
"Captain Lieutenant Blair is my commanding officer and I will inform him of your message as soon as I see him."
'You will be under a good officer there Ensign.'
"Thank you sir."
'I belive I covered everything I need to tell you,' Captain Blair said. 'Have a good voyage aboard the Galaxy Ensign.'
"Thank you again sir and safe voyages to you and your crew as well."
'Thank you Ensign,' Captain Blair paused for a moment. He continued with, 'dismissed Ensign.'
John walked out of the Ready Room feeling relieved from the nervousness that overcame him ten minutes ago. John headed to Ten-Forward for breakfast having decided their was no way he would be waiting for the Galaxy to eat.
Ensign J.A.Burns,
There were two messages in particular that piqued his interest. One from Devlynn Salshyar... It seems Chris was no longer Colby's guardian, and she wanted him to somewhat mentor Colby in Telepathy. Chiron wasn't so sure about the suggestion, and decided to mark down an appointment with Dev.
The second struck Chiron like a large bulkhead. Hutchcraft had taken a permanent leave, leaving Chiron with the Engineering department. He decided to go up to Captain Price to get his orders. He sent the message to Dev, then left his quarters for the Bridge.
Chiron wasn't too sure about his ability to command... his lack of hearing could cost lives in an emergency, and then there were his telepathic flashes...
Chiron entered a turbolift to find it occupied by a green-skinned Orion woman. She seemed familiar somehow, but he just couldn't place it. He raised his PADD, and typed out a message. [[Hello, Might I inquire to your name?]]
The woman read the message with a slightly puzzled look on her face, but then typed out a response. [[I am Electra... I transfered from Station Beta 2.]]
Images forced their way into Chiron's mind. The execution-style death of Captain Zahn, an echo of a scream ringing through the station...
[[You were Zahn's mate?]]
Electra looked stunned. "How?..." [[How did you know?]]
Chiron wrote down how he had seen the entire execution through the Captain's eyes. He began typing again, [[His last thoughts were of you, madam.]]
She read the message, tears welling up in her eyes. He hated to dredge up old memories. He began to offer consoling feelings to her, but was stopped short by a sudden pain in the back of his skull. His eyes snapped open, and he dropped the PADD.
Another Telepathic sensation. This one was more severe. Sometimes he recieved all of the positive emotions of the ship, sometimes fears and panic... But then there were the rare times when all the pain was funneled to him. His proximity to the widow of someone he had 'died' with must have triggered it. He collapsed to the floor of the lift, eyes still open.
When would this end?
The Schizoid Man
"Home Visits"
Ronni still was careful to avoid Cmdr. Coe. After his chewing her out, he still gave her dirty looks. The only thing that had saved her is that she had been helpful in regaining the USS Galaxy and that she had fixed all the problems that the Ferengi had caused.
She asked for and received permission to visit Earth. It had been a while since she had returned to her stomping grounds and she decided to visit her grandparents, her human father's parents, at their home in Astoria, Oregon. The house was a three story building almost 80 years old. It had that lived in smell and was excitement.
Her grandparent met her at the door and invited her in. She told them of everything that had happened and they were excited for her. They also told her that Kra'lana was on Earth and would be visiting later.
Ronni sat down to a dinner of clam chowder, homemade bread and real butter. She savored every moment. When her time was up, she gave a quick hug and squeeze to both grandparents and headed back to the Galaxy.
***Ten-Forward***
James sat back casually with his glass of champagne, sipping it gently as he gazed out at the passing stars in the backwash of the ship as she cruised through the cosmos. He was seated with several other members of the senior crew at an after mission party.
He watched the others chat it up as Deiran and Ti announced their impending parenthood. Pats on the back and rounds of chamagne made its way around as the two happy newlywed parents-to-be were congratulated.
James was very happy for them, but that was only what appeared on the surface. He was discontent and angry with himself for failing the Away Team and the ship at his duty of command.
Several junior crewmembers died and he couldn't do anything but watch. The site was destroyed, with relative little objects retrieved. He couldn't save the research project he was placed in charge of. Commander Sterner took control of the mission because he couldn't handle it.
These thoughts and more churned through his mind without end.
People talked to him but they seemed so distant. He smiled and nodded at the mouths moving but not to be heard. He was in a world of his own, cut off of communication from the other world.
He saw Dr. Rousseau run, but could not warn her as she was shot down, he dark hair flaring up out of the wound as it penetrated her skull. He watched the blood well up and clot.
James shut his eyes and gripped his glass tight until his knuckles turned white. Images of fellow crew dying or tortured gripped his thoughts.
All week these things visited him. His ineptness as a commanding officer tore at him. Ensign Enquist died under his command, killed by a alarm system of long ago.
"It should've been me!" His thoughts rushed out of his mouth in a loud whisper. He opened his eyes to see if anyone heard. Luckily, they hadn't.
He looked over to Captain Price and Commander Coe, laughing it up over some exotically coloured cocktails.
{How does he handle it?} James watched the two of them in awe. Captain Price had been forced to wait out the agony of unsurety when it came to Jacqueline. His own health failing as a result of a gunshot wound to his thigh, he couldn't have known if he ever was going to get back to his ship.
And James was forced to sit back and watch it all. He was too afraid to go through the portal on his own! He sneered at that thought.
The Galaxy had just left Earth in an attempt to give Dr. Rousseau the best care possible. James never even made it there to see her off. Instead, he worked double-shifts on the Bridge to distract him. He refused to take shore leave either. He felt he didn't deserve it.
He turned his back to stare out the portal. The tracers of the stars being sped past at high warp tantalized him. He felt hi
mself falling into their hypnotic wash as he focussed on them, wishing he were as free as they were.
"Excuse me, is this seat taken?" A voice echoed behind him. He cocked his head to see the familiar blue of sciences and shook his head. The others had left, he guessed. He glanced at a chronometer and had seen that several hours had passed since he had gotten there. His eyes grew wide as he spun his chair around and dropped his now warm champagne down on the table. He looked up to the female who had seated herself to excuse himself.
Counselor Salshyar had returned to seat herself and was gazing intently at James. He did a double-take as he was beginning to stand.
"Uhh....what?" He glanced behind him, but that wasn't what she was staring at. A smile tugged at the edge of her mouth.
"I noticed you seemed to be in thought about something. I've seen that look before." She never took her eyes off James. He was still in half standing position, hands still propped on the table as he lifted himself out of the seat.
"Yes, I was, and it's nothing, counselor. Don;t worry about it." He straightened his vest and began to walk away. Devlynn caught his arm on the way out. James turned down to stare at her hand, then lifted his icy glare to look at her.
"Excuse me? If you don't mind, I have work to do." He pulled his arm away. She stood up and pulled herself around him, blocking his way.
"Have you had a psychological examination lately, Lieutenant?" James stared at her, his mouth dropped slightly in amazement.
"Where did that come from? All I did was stare out a port!" He tried to move around her, but was unsuccessful. He sighed and rolled his eyes.
"For about 6 hours, Lieutenant. Now answer my question." She returned his harsh glare.
"I had one about a year ago, Counselor." He rolled off his tongue in a patronizing manner.
"Then I'd say it's time for your annual checkup, Lt." She held her ground, crossing her arms.
"Is that an order, LIEUTENANT?" He emphasized the rank, making sure it sounded as sarcastic as possible, since she kept calling him that.
"No, but you can either come down voluntarily, or you will be relieved of duty and confined to quarters until you do. Starfleet regulations, LIEUTENANT." She stared straight into his eyes, unwavering in her stance. James saw he wasn't going to get anywhere, so he quit while he was ahead.
"Fine, I'll see you in the morning. I'm going to work." He dropped his gaze and dodged around her, but she caught his arm beforehand.
"No, Mr. Mitchell. You are NOT going to work until you've had that evaluation. When you are ready, come down to Sickbay. The Medical officer in charge will inform me when you arrive. Now you may leave."
She moved out of his way to let him by. This time he didn't move.
"What?! You can't be serious!" He looked into her eyes and saw no emotion there. Just fire and lots of determination.
"I'm dead serious." She waved to a pair of security officers at the bar. "Security, please escort Mr. Mitchell to his quarters and confine him until he decides to report to Sickbay." James couldn't believe his eyes. How could she embarrass him in the middle of a semi-packed Ten-Forward?! Luckily all the Senior officers had left already. At least, the ones he could see right off the bat. The Security officers lined up beside him.
"Fine, COUNSELOR. I'll see you in the morning. Like I said the first time." James turned his gaze to the two security officers.
"Let's go, guys. We've got our 'orders'." He turned to look back one last time at the counselor, and sent her an ugly stare. Shaking his head, he left Ten-Forward to go lock himself in his room.
Lt. James Mitchell
Galaxy Log "Check Up"
"No. You sit back down on that bed" I said as Ti sat back down on the bed.
"Look I don't know why you are scared of me Lt but I am not that mean and nasty"
"That is o.k. Doctor I am sorry" responded Ti.
"Well lay there while I run some test, and I promise the test won't hurt o.k."
I walked over to the bench and picked up a medical tricorder and brang it back over to Ti. I finished the scan.
"Well the baby is in good health and so is the mother. Do you want to know the sex of the baby or do you want it to be a surprise? Well I wont tell you at the moment I will let you make up your mine but now you are free to go."
"Thank you doctor" Was the response I got as they got up to leave
"Think nothing of it's my job" I said as I watched the happy couple leave the Sickbay.
No, Miran didn't want to know the sex of the baby. If Deiran wanted to know he could come back and find out without her. She wanted it to be a surprise.
When they got back to their quarters, Deiran left again not informing her exactly where he was going but siad something about meeting some friends. That was fine with her, she had some things she wanted to do.
Her first action was to send an invite to the crew of the ship to attend the Drive-in. She stated that the holo-adventure would be in Holodeck 3 and explained a little about the set-up. Then she had to decide on a "car". Since she didn't know anything about cars she decided to let Deiran chose.
When she was done, she stopped a moment o think of the future. It wouldn't be too long before she became large and not too long there after the baby would come. Four months ((Bajorans only carry babies for about four and half to five months)) and she would be a mother. It was kind of scary.
Even though she still had plenty of time to chose but she should start thinking about who she wanted as midwife, which doctor would be on stand by as a doctor in case something unseen should happen, and who would attend. It was traditional for the mother's immediate relations to attend the birthing but Miran's family was dead.
She would worry about it closer to time. She then dimmed the lights and laid down to wait for Deiran.
***Day or Two later***
Miran was looking forward to see how many people would attend her little Drive-in. She had finally chose on two movies that the theater had shown together- Volcano and Dante's Peak. Dante's Peak would be the first and Volcano would follow after.
She chose the atmosphere to be warm but not smothering hot unlike the normal climate of the region. ((though this actual night when these movies showed we froze though it was June))
Deiran had picked out an old model car but she couldn't remember the name of it. They got a position in the second row middle, right in front of the resturant. The resturant was open as for the crew to get whatever they want from the replicators. She looked around to the filling lot. Back of the theater she could see the runway lights of the airport starting to come on as the sun began to set. Soon, the movie would start.
She programmed to include instead of previews of other movies to show a greetings and an annoucement about the pending parenthood. She had found though that Deiran had spread the word around pretty good. He was so proud.
Miran and Deiran curled up together to watch the movie as it began. She felt comfortable and safe wrapped in his arms.
*****************************************
Just a few little side comments- Occasionally watching movies at the drive in planes do come in on the runway the intersects with the Drive-in. Watching Speed II we had a plane come in that just added perfectly to the effects.
Enjoy it with a group of people (Or by yourself) when we go we fill the van and take lawnchairs or blankets to sit on. The movie is shown using a radio frequency 88.1
No laughing now when during the sad part of Dante's Peak please.
I hope this is enjoyed. It was done a little in a hurry to make sure it got out so that people could enjoy. I thought we had next week too (That s what you get for not paying real close attention to dates)
And I realize when I sent out the introduction of the Drive-in I confused some people. If you want to go to real drive-in- I'm going home tomorrow They should still be showing, come down (I guess not everyone would be coming down, I"m heading south to get there) and join me.
Kristi
Mélissa had decided to go celebrate her promotion with a chocolate sunday in Ten Forward. After eating, she noticed David Mercury entering the room.
"I can't believe we have been promoted to Lt.Jg. I can't get used to the different pin on my collar." Lt.Jg. Boudreau said as she ran up to congratulate David.
"Melissa I have something to tell you, please sit," David said as he lead her over to a table.
"Is everything alright?" she replied.
"Yeah, I would say so, I have just been promoted to Chief of Engineering. And I would like to inform you that you are now Assistant Chief of Engineering along with Lt. Chiron."
"....." Melissa's mouth dropped.
"Speechless, that's the way I like it. I am counting on you and Chiron to be my right and left hands. I am not the most experienced officer so it is going to take a lot of work and many mistakes to get through this." David said on a more serious note.
"Yes, sir," Melissa said with a stern voice.
"Hey what happened to David?"
"You are my superior officer and I need to treat that with respect."
"Well then my first order to you is to call me David, I am your friend before I am your superior officer," David smiled.
"Whatever you say boss!" Mélissa giggled. "What do you say we get a few people together and go see the drive-in movies?"
David agreed and after rounding up a few friends they headed for holodeck 3. Mélissa had never seen either of the movies before and watched intently. Of course she had to order French Canadian poutine to eat while she was there. It just wouldn't have been the same without it.
Finally, when the movies ended, she excused herself. "Gotta go everyone! I start heading up Gamma shift tomorrow and I need to get some work done. As if that wasn't bad enough I have to totally rearrange my sleep schedule!!!! See you later."
David and her other friends bid her goodbye as she headed for her quarters and the many kilograms of work she had waiting for her.
Amélie Aka:
She's cool, Tebrianne thought to herself after Lt. Casey-Ti had left.
"Computer, play music, Molten Rebar, volume 45 percent," Tebrianne said.
The room filled with with the acidic sounds of Tebrianne's favorite band. She danced around the room, putting her gear away. It had been beamed aboard minutes after she had. Someone had gone ahead and moved it directly to her quarters.
She put up the decorations that she'd had in her dorm at Starfleet Academy: concert memorabilia, postcards, pictures, and a Vulcan incense burner.
"Computer, increase volume to sixty percent."
Tebrianne began a letter to Victoria on a PADD, losing herself in the music.
A young woman stepped through the doorway. Her auditory senses were assaulted by a cacaphony of sounds.
"Excuse me?" she called, before repeating it again louder. She placed a hand on Tebrianne's shoulder and shouted it again.
Tebrianne nearly jumped off her bunk.
"Computer, volume zero!" she called and the sound disappeared. "I'm sorry about that. I didn't mean to...it was just to get my mind settled...I'm really sorry."
"Don't worry about it," the woman said. "I don't mind loud music occassionally, but that was a little too much."
"That was Molten Rebar, they are one of the hottest bands in Britain right now. My mum sent that to me last week."
"They may be fabulous, but they're not really my style. I prefer the classics: Trent Reznor, Stabbing Westward, those guys."
"Oh yeah," Tebrianne said, nodding. "They're really cool. I guess Rebar takes some getting used to. I'm Tebrianne, by the way. Ensign Tebrianne Bancroft."
"I'm Julia. Julia Reynolds, Ensign too. I'm in Engineering."
"Helm," Tebrianne said. "They don't have me on the schedule yet. So, I don't know. I'll probably be on Gamma shift if they give me bridge duty."
"Well, I have a feeling I'll be on Gamma shift," Julia said. "I guess I should get my stuff unpacked, huh?"
"Yeah, that'd be a good idea."
The two women worked quietly for awhile. They chatted about Academy experience, growing up, likes and dislikes. Julia was fascinated by Tebrianne's heritage.
"Growing up in London wasn't that bad," Tebrianne said. "Once I got into my teens, I joined the New Punk scene. I got my first tattoo when I was fourteen. My parents flipped. I got my nose pierced when I was fifteen, and got another tattoo right before going into the Academy, that was the white rose on my hip. My first tattoo was my ankle. Last year, a bunch of people in my Advanced Evasion Techniques class went out and got tattoos together. I got a yin-yang on my shoulder blade."
"That's really neat, Tebrianne," Julia said. "I've never really done anything wild."
"Well, if you're up to it, we're likely to get some shore leave at some point. Maybe we can go out and do something outrageous."
"I'd like that," Julia said. "Now, I really don't want to stop sitting here gabbing, but I need to get some last minute work done before I need to report to Main Engineering."
"That's okay," Tebrianne said. "I wanted to head out to Ten Forward and then I want to talk to Lieutenant Casey-Ti about what she expects of me."
Tebrianne hopped off her bed, and stopped to quick put in her earrings and silver stud.
"See you later, Julia," Tebrianne said from the door.
"Bye, Tebrianne."
Tebrianne made her way through the corridors, hallways, and turbolifts of the Galaxy until she arrived at Ten Forward.
The doors slid open and she stepped through...
"Under Siege !"
A beam struck the bulky hull of the USS Galaxy.
The Bridge shook violently, causing the crew to bounce around on their seats. The bulkheads rambled in protest as the enemy vessel was getting close. The battle stressed crew locked their gaze on the viewscreen. Expecting something violent to spurt out. The image of the enemy ship darted across, the crew's ears engulfed by piercing sounds of phaser fire. The bridge was dark, sinister. Its bulkheads were burnt, the carpet littered with debris, injured crewmen laid helpl
By Ensign Gary Barker
Helmsmen USS Galaxy
Dev was happy to be back aboard the Galaxy. Things would finally be back to normal. She heard reports of the crew members that didn't survive the trip to the Sigma II, they were less than those lost in the Void, which was good. She considered herself lucky, as she and those that she cared about were safe, but as counselor, her heart went out to the families of those that lost.
Chief Counselor USS Galaxy
"Breakfast at 2300"
By Ensign John Chan
Operations Officer U.S.S Galaxy
"Back Aboard Part 2"
By Colby Torwyn
"Pleasant Diversion"
by Lieutenant j.g. Hunter McKenzie
"Coming Aboard"
By Ensign Leslie Wilson
Counselor,USS Galaxy
Devlynn thought about Colby's situation for a long time. "Colby. We're going to have to talk to Chris about this change. I mean, it can't go through if he doesn't agree. And Ambassador Troi might have something to say about it too. We can't just appoint anyone as your guardian you know."
Chief Counselor, USS Galaxy - NCC-70637
By Lt. (jg) Thomas
"The USS Galaxy"
by Ensign Tebrianne Bancroft
"The Game"
by Lt. j.g. Greer Erikson, Science Officer
(with help from Lt. Casey, Lt. Blair, and Lt. j.g. Hewson)
"Uninvited"
By Electra
"Home, sweet home"
by Ensign Christopher Campbell,
Security Officer,
USS Galaxy
by Captain Robert Edward Lee Price
by: Ensign Tony Grump
By Ensign John Chan
Operations Officer U.S.S Galaxy
"Undue Credit?"
by Soushonn Arcas
"Message"
by Lt jg. K'Eytyanna Samara
Ensign K'Eytyanna Samara,
USS Galaxy NCC-70637 Engineering Department
"Helmsman and Doctors"
by Casey-Ti Miran and Deiran Casey
By Ensign Leslie Wilson
Counselor,USS Galaxy
As the shuttlecraft gracely pulled into the U.S.S. Galaxy, currently orbiting Earth, Lt. Nathan Kane breathed a sigh of relief. He had been away from the Galaxy nearly a year now, and was *desperate* to get back into some solid work.
(Julian King - king@fl.net.au)
Helmsman, U.S.S. Galaxy.
"Changes"
"Losing a Friend"
by Lt. j.g. Erikson, Science Officer
"Bed Time"
by Colby Torwyn (with approval by Devlynn :)
Tactical Officer - USS Galaxy
aka Pat Burns
Chiron walked over to his console, and tapped a few buttons. With an unheard twitter, the day's messages appeared on the monitor. Chiron had tied his commbadge into his messaging system to take any vocal messages, convert them into text, and download them to his terminal.
by Lt. Ronni Morris
Asst. Chief of Science, USS Galaxy
"Afterthoughts"
by Lt. James Mitchell
Chief of Science
USS Galaxy
AES
written by Kahn Nilani USS Galaxy
"Drive-in"
Lt Casey Ti Miran
"Pins and Movies"
By: Lt. jg Mélissa Marie Boudreau
Lt. jg Mélissa Marie Boudreau
Assistant Chief Engineering Officer
USS Galaxy NCC-70637
"Settling"
By: Ensign Tebrianne Bancroft
By Ensign John Chan
Ops Officer USS Galaxy