"What's that smell"
by Jurelle Tash

Jurelle was taking a walk along the lower crew decks following the dinner with the Deltan ambassedor. It had been a classically boring starfleet affair with little to distinguish it except for the fact that it was the first of these affairs Jurelle had attended as a part of the senior staff. She had been looking forward to meeting the Deltan Ambassador, if only to say she had met a great diplomat, but also because Deltans were an interesting race of people.

Jurelle had met a number of Deltans in past lifetimes and knew them to be a particularly attractive race. She knew, as anyone who had done 'An introduction to Alpha quadrant species' at the academy did, that Deltans produced a pheromone making them irrisistable to other humanoids unless these pheromones were controlled chemically or naturally by the Deltan themselves. As Jurelle understood it though, a Deltans natural abilities to control their pheromones was impaired when under external stressors. Jurelle had been looking forward to an interesting evening, should any heated discussion ensue, but nothing untoward occurred over the course of the evening. In fact, apart from a few adoring glances from some of the female officers, it appeared that the Ambassador was totally in control of his pheromonal abilities.

Jurelle had been somewhat dissapointed at the normality of it all and had left soon after dessert to avoid the after dinner conversation that inevitably followed one of these affairs. She was now strolling around the lower crew decks where there were few people about at this time of day to disturb her thoughts.

She was soon lost in her thoughts about Gentaal, a Deltan she had known, many years, and lifetimes ago. Shavert Tash, the first Tash host had known the Deltan and spent some of his life on the beautiful forested 'Seyalia', the Deltan homeworld. Shavert, a poet, had considered Gentaal his muse, and much of his work was about her and her world.

Jurelle quickened her pace, she was becoming melancholy, an aspect about herself she found distasteful and even frightening. She hadn't been joined long enough to have learnt to distance herself from the feelings and memories of past hosts and her current strategy to deal with these situations was distraction. She made her way to a tubo-lift, to the holodeck, to wear herself out physically in raquet-ball practice. Lt Casey had mentioned his intrest in playing with her one day soon and she had the feeling she would need all the practice she could get.

Lt JG Jurelle Tash
CMO USS Galaxy

"Mystery Guest Part I"
by Lt jg K'Eytyanna Samara
---------------------------

K'Eytyanna walked in her quarters and went straight to her terminal to recieve the live subspace call from her house on Klinzhai. Tapping a button, the screen flashed on with the Klingon Empire's crest before her uncle appeared on the screen. She smiled before speaking,

"Greetings, Uncle. To what do I owe this welcome call?"

"rut yIHmey ghom Hoch, and this is one such time for me. I have news that may cause you some grief, and for that, I apologize. The facility that you entrusted to care for your pet, D'Akana, has finally decided that it cannot hold responsibility for D'Akana anymore. At the moment, he is staying in the House complex, but I am afraid we cannot keep him here for long and will have to put him down."

She gasped and grabbed the desk hard with her hands to keep herself steady. She bared her teeth as she spoke,

"Uncle, you cannot do that. If you just give me some time, I will find some way that will not involve hurting D'Akana."

Her uncle sighed before saying,

"You have one standard Federation day to find a suitable arrangement. ghIj qet jaghmeyjaj, K'Eytyanna. ( May your enemies run with fear, K'Eytyanna. ) House T'Mok out." She spun around and put her head in her hands.

Her Klingon side snarled in anger, (Why? Why? Why? That damn place said they would keep him as long as needed. D'Akana isn't that bad really.)

Her Bajoran side spoke up,

(Face it, Klingon. D'Akana is an undisciplined critter who absolutely detests anyone trying to force him into doing what he doesn't want.)

(Shut up, stupid Bajoran. Just because you wanted a Bajoran pet doesn't mean me and Human should suffer. Anyway, any of the ones you suggested wouldn't last five minutes on Klinzhai.)

(I suppose so, but you could have picked a more quieter one.)

(Human picked him, not me, so there.)

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

A few hours later, a message was recieved on the Klingon homeworld, requesting the immediate transfer of D'Akana to the USS Galaxy, explaining that he would be transported from there to his final destination.

A stasis crate arrived very shortly after aboard a Klingon freighter, that would pass by the Federation outpost designated as Outpost station 27.

----------------------------------------------------------------------
Lt jg K'Eytyanna Samara, USS Galaxy NCC-70637 Engineering Department

"After School Fun"
by Colby Torwyn

Colby had his small bookbag slung over his shoulder as he ran, full speed to his quarters. When he arrived, he was wheezing slightly. He stood still for a second and the door slid open, slowly but surely.

He ran inside the bedroom and tossed the bookbag on the far side of the bed. He instantly threw off his shirt and slipped on the same red tank top from the few nights before. He quickly kicked off his pants, shoes, and socks and slipped on a comfortable pair of cloth shorts and his new sandals. Within a minute, he was in and out of the bathroom, water splashed on his face and his hat on his head. He jogged up to the door and waited for it to open. As soon as there was enough space, he dashed out and headed straight for Devlynn's office.

Colby was in and out of the turbolift as quick as possible and ran down the hallway, full blast. He dodged several adults and arrived at the doors of Devlynn's office. When they opened, he made a mad dash towards Dev, who was sitting at her desk, and quickly hopped up on her lap. She let out an audible 'oomph' as he landed.

"Nice to see you too," she said. "What's the rush?"

Colby just smiled. "Nothing. Just wanted to run here."

"Just wanted to run?" Devlynn asked, trying to sound interested. Her attention was really focused to the PADD on her desk.

"Yeah." Colby was still gaining his breath from his mad dash through the ship.

"Ohh, I see." She smiled brightly. "I also see that you changed clothes again today."

"Yup," he said, beaming with pride.

Devlynn was proud that Colby had found a way that he could express his independance and difference from the other children. It made him so happy to just wear his simple tank top and sandals. When he was happy, She was happy. She cocked her head to one side out of exhaustion and began to massage Colby's bare shoulders with her hands. "Ugh," she moaned, "it's been a long day."

"Yup," Colby said again, agreeing.

"A long hard day," Devlynn said again. Her day had been overloaded with appointments and such. Alot for one person to do, counselor or not.

Colby giggled a little as Devlynn countinued to massage his little shoulders. He leaned back and rested his head on Dev's chest. He looked upwards at her; she looked down in turn. "Devlynn?" he asked quietly.

"Yes?" Dev said in a soft tone.

"Can I ask you something?"

"Why certainly dear. You can ask me anything," she replied as she continued to rub Colby's shoulders.

Colby looked up with longing eyes. "Can I call you Momma?"

"Coming Down"
by Lt. (jg) Alan Hewson
with inadvertent contributions by Lt. (jg) Greer Erickson

Sleep. It is perhaps the most important word to an engineer. While some officers will complain about missing one night’s sleep of eight hours, engineers are happy to get four or five. However, this mission provided much needed rest for the weary slaves, and Alan was fast asleep when the alarm went off.

“Uhhhg….unng….” That was the best Alan could manage as he awoke from his dream. “Good lord….Computer, what time is it?” Rolling over in his bed, Alan felt his leg begin to cramp. He quickly extended his legs, trying to easy the tension.

“The time is now 07:30.” The somewhat comforting voice of the computer announced.

“Sooo,” A huge yawn escaped before he could finish the sentence “why did you wake me up?” He was quite surprised when the computer actually responded.

“Lt. (jg) Hewson requested a 07:30 wake-up alarm.” Then it struck him: he was on Alpha shift nowadays. Kicking the sheets off, he began to prepare for another day of work.

***** 25 minutes later *****

The door swished open revealing the busy scene of Gamma shift exchanging duties with their counterparts on Alpha. Engineering had gone through some major changes since their last mission. The biggest was the loss of Lt. Hutchcraft. Alan had really enjoyed talking to Hutch. Many people thought Andrew was quite the strange fellow, and perhaps he was. The complexity of his ever-changing moods was a variable to be delt with everyday. The devastating loss of his father had been too much for the man. Now his precious engines were in the hands of Lt. (jg) David Mercury.

It was quite a shock to AC when he learned that his friend had been promoted to Chief Engineer. One would think that Chiron was the most likely person to get the job. He had turned it down however because of his inability to communicate with the rest of the crew easily (or at least that’s what Alan thought). Mèlissa was bumped up to Asst. Chief Engineer, and Alan had been moved up to Alpha shift. The only thing that mattered to Alan was the second pip he now wore on his collar. It didn’t make him feel that he was better than anyone else, it was a matter of pride. He wasn’t looking to climb the command ladder like some people, a.k.a. Lt. Derian Casey.

If there was one person AC couldn’t stand, it was Derian. Now he had put up with some smart arses before, but Casey took the prize for the most revolting. Never before had AC seen someone so power hungry. The worst part was Derian was so young. It was surprising that he could walk through the corridor with a head that large. If there was a commanding officers butt that needed to be kissed, Casey was there.

Lately, Derian thought he would “walk among the lower beings” by joining the poker games that Alan’s friend Greer Erikssen had setup. No doubt Mr. Casey was looking forward to destroying his opponents so that he could receive the award as the best poker player on the ship. True, Derian did win his fair share of hands, but by now means was he a god of poker.

One night on the holodeck, Derian was on a huge winning streak. The holographic generated crowd was singing his praises on the Riverboat Royale, as the last hand of the night was delt. Alan had hoped to defeat the young punk, but the cards he received did not allow that to happen. However, in the end Greer beat out Casey’s three Kings with a Straight Flush. After the game was over, Greer and Alan had stopped by Ten-Forward to have a few drinks to celebrate the victory.

Alan just shook his head and smiled as he picked up the daily itinerary for Alpha Shift. It was the usual schedule, but one thing stood out. An Ensign John Prescott had proposed a way to decrease the hull-stress by 5% while in Warp. It sounded good, but AC doubted it would work. Even if it did, the efficiency of the engines would go down by about 3%. These numbers sounded low, but the slightest change could mean major re-haul time on the warp core. He made a mental note to talk to Prescott in the next few days.

"The Last Hand"
by Lt. (JG) Greer Erikson, Science Officer
[with contributions by Lt. (JG) Hewson]

======Simluation: Riverboat Royale, Holodeck 3======

It was the usual Thursday night poker game. The Riverboat Royale was busy with life like the social phenomenon from Earth's late 20th century known as 'peak-hour' - real and simulated. AC had finally made it to a game now that Greer was temporarily on the Beta shift and they were joined by several of the crew. Lt. Casey seemd to be having a run of serindipidous fortune that night. It wasn't that he had a winning hand every single game, more that he was practicing a well-known poker technique known as bluffing.

Greer was worried that AC would end up saying something to Casey. Older and more seasoned than Casey he seemed to resent this young man who was eager in his journey to higher levels of the command chain. He hoped that they would be civil if not compatible in the same holodeck suite. All seemingly went well on the simulation and it was fun. Everyone was in 19th century costume and the anachronistic jazz band almost seemed perfectly appropriate. It almost felt as if they were indeed on a riverboat cruising the Mississippi during 19th century Earth.

"I'll see you 20 and raise you 30" Casey said with an overwhelming amount of confidence.

"To bluff or not to bluff?" AC thought trying to comprehend whether or not the Lieutenant was indeed utilising a bluff tactical. "A what the Hell, I'll see that 50."

Greer felt the contempt in the room and was feeling a little uncomfortable with it. He looked at his hand and felt comfortable with continuing the hand. Afterall he had a Straight Flush - what fortune. He hadn't had much luck most of the evening and trying to ascertain whether or not his friend AC could refrain from communicating his thoughts were almost as intense as concentrating on the entire lateral sensor array during an ion storm - thoughts here, thoughts there, thoughts appearing everywhere.

"Good chance that I can win, good chance I can win, good chance I can win" he continued to think to himself. He couldn't tell if Casey was bluffing but at that moment he didn't care.

"I'll match that folks and raise you an additional 50" Greer said. The players looked at him in dibelief. He had been all too quiet most of the evening and his sudden expression of confidence seemed out of character.

"That's too rich for me" Chan said said putting down his hand on the table. "It's not real money but I don't have enough chips."

"I know what you mean" Greer replied looking at the remaining patch of green space where his bundle of gold and silver coloured chips had slowly vanished from a run of bad hands. He had just used the last of his chips. He had considered bluffing but was to sincere in nature to do so. Not saying he wouldn't do it because the most unexpected and be the most effective!

"I'll match that" Burns said handing in the appropriate amount of chips. He was new to the Galaxy and the simulation, and most of the players had no idea what to expect from him.

When it came to the crunch, each person put there hand down. Burns had three-of-a-kind (jacks), Alan had two pairs of tens, Chan's hand remained on the table unturned, Greer had a straight flush. The four of them awaited for Casey to reveal his hand. Slowly, as if to savour the suspense, he present the others with his hand revealing a three-of-a-kind (kings).

"I don't believe it. I . . . .won!" Greer said in utter disbelief. He enjoyed the game but winning was a secondary element for him.

"Well done Greer" Casey said.

"Thanks Casey"

========Ten Forward===========

AC felt he needed to celebrate with Greer the old-fashioned way - with a drink. Greer began to feel a little uncomfortable with the attention but was still happy from his last hand effort on the Royale.

"A drink for my friend here" AC said to the waiter.

"A macchiato" Greer suggested to the waiter. Greer never really developed a taste for synthohol or alcohol so he prefered to drink his usual.

"No that won't do" AC said interjecting his opinion into the conversation. "bring us some ale my good man."

AC seemed to be in a state of elation and wanted to celebrate. Greer, as his friend, wasn't going to rob him of that experience. The two finished a few ales and headed bac

k to AC's quarters.

===========AC's Quarters===========

It seems that the 'party moved'to AC's quarters. AC removed a flask of a deep blue liquid from his cabinet.

"Romulan ale?" Greer said. "Syntheholic Romulan ale I hope."

"Na, the real stuff" AC replied.

=======Several hours later, Beta shift=====

Greer sat at Science Station I looking at his console with an agonising hangover. "I am never going to trust anything that blue ever again" he thought "Bolians, Andorrians, and Delphinians and other blue-hued species are an expection."

"Erikson are you alright?" Lieutenant McKenzie asked.

"He sir, fine" he said trying to appear as if the meer utterings of words from his mouth didn't nauseate him.

John practically ran back to his quarters to grab his hockey equipment. He arrived at his quarters and quickly undressed out of his uniform and then put on some comfortable clothes.

He wondered if Ensign Campbell was any good. John didn't want to totally dominate so he decided to take it easy until he discovered how skilled Ensign Campbell was. After all John had been playing most of his life and had won many championships. He looked over at the trophies that were on the table. He really needed to find a place to put them but, now was not the time.

John finished changing his clothes and grabbed his hockey bag which held his pads. Grabbing two of his hockey sticks he headed off towards Holodeck Two. As he was walking to Holodeck Two many crewmen walked by him giving him some funny looks. John figured that they were thinking, "What is in that bag?" and "What are those stick like things he is carrying?"

Finally somebody stopped him and asked, "Umm, excuse me Ensign but, what are those sticks for?" John looked at the young woman, noticing that she was a junior grade lieutenant and also he found something peculiar about her. John told her that he was headed to the Holodeck for a game of icehockey.

He then explained a little about how you play hockey and the basic fundamentals of the game. She seemed very interested so John asked her if she would like to join him and Ensign Campbell for a game.

"I'm sorry Ensign but I have some duties to attend to but, perhaps another time." "I would be honored if you joined us for a game some time Lt(jg)........?"

"Samara" she said finishing my sentence.

"Oh, and I am Ensign John Burns." "It was a honor to meet you Ensign but I have some duties I need to attend to now." "Ok Lt(jg) I'll make sure to contact you the next time we play." "Thank you Ensign." and with that I once again headed to the Holodeck.

***********Holodeck Two***********

Upon arriving at Holodeck Two I noticed that a program was already started. "Computer, what program is running."

"Burns Hockey 3 is currently running."

This was John's latest program that he had made, featuring some of the greatest players that have ever played ice hockey. As John entered he arrived in the locker room which was completely empty. Figuring that Campbell had already gotten out on the ice John suited up as fast as possible.

John finished putting his pads on and slipped into his New York Rangers jersey. When he was young he liked the Rangers because of the way the uniform looked. He chuckled at the thought and grabbed his stick and headed to the ice.

He reached the player's bench and looked out onto the ice. He saw some of the great players that were warming up. A few hello's came from Mark Messier, Gordie Howe, and hockey's all time leader Wayne Gretzky. He then heard someone say "There you are Ensign Burns." Campbell approached John as he said "Hello Ensign Campbell."

"Just call me Chris" he said. "And John or Burnsie is good for me." "Well...Burnsie I hope you didn't mind me using your program I...." "No not at all" John interjected. "Let's play some hockey."

We decided to play on the same team this time. The game started and since John was center he took the face-off against Wayne Gretzky. John won the face-off and the puck slid to Ray Bourque. Bourque passed to Chris who then deaked out Bobby Orr and Paul Coffey, two top notch defenseman. This impressed John and he thought that they would be a good match for each other.

Chris then dropped the puck to Brian Leetch who in turn faked a shot and passed to John. John looked left and right looking for an open man. Seeing Chris break for the net John made a beautiful pass. The red light went on, the siren buzzed, and the crowd roared. Chris had sent a rocket shot right between the legs of the goalie, Bernie Parent.

When the game ended we had won 7 to 6 in overtime. As we undressed in the locker room John told Chris about his run in with Lt.(jg) Samara. Chris said that he would enjoy another player and that they should definitely include her in their next hockey game. Chris congratulated John on the depth of his program but, Chris had some recommendations and some other great players to add to it.

John and Chris agreed to play another game sometime. Since their time in the Holodeck had run out they said goodbye to each other and they both went to their quarters for a sonic shower.

Ensign J.A.Burns aka Pat Burns

The Captain hadn't been too impressed with Dev's bringing Colby to the Ambassador's banquet. But there had been little mention of it during the actual proceedings. Which was good. But Dev had noticed that morning, that the Captain was among the list of her appointments, which meant that she was going to get a talking to. Much like she might give to her own child.

The Captain hadn't jumped up and down, nor did he turn red in the face. Which was good. He simply asked her why she thought it necessary to bring Colby to the dinner. She explained the circumstances, such as they were. And the Captain accepted them. Though she didn't think that he truly understood her motives behind not wanting to leave Colby with anyone other than the Tamarian Engineer, Chiron.

After the Captain, an Ensign with accusations for an adultering husband, a lieutenant with nightmares, two other lieutenants with various complaints for their seniors and several other officers followed. It had been a rough day. Her staff mirrored her sentiments.

Sitting at her computer, reading a detailed study of two Trill symbiants that were been traced through their relationships, from host to host, and even to each other on more than one istance, she barely heard Colby enter her office.

"Oomph!" She groaned as her landed soundly in her lap. The kid had to go on a diet if he was going to do that again, period. "Nice to see you too," she said finally. "What's the rush?"

Colby just smiled. "Nothing. Just wanted to run here."

"Just wanted to run?" Devlynn asked, trying to sound interested. Though her attention was still with the study on her desk. Colby grabbed the PADD and flipped it across the room. He grinned at Dev. She smiled at his innocence.

"Yeah." Colby was still gaining his breath from his mad dash through the ship.

"Ohh, I see." She smiled brightly. "I also see that you changed clothes again today."

"Yup," he said, beaming with pride.

Devlynn was proud that Colby had found a constructive way that he could express his independance and difference from the other children. She cocked her head to one side out of exhaustion and, totally subconsciously, began to massage Colby's bare shoulders with her hands. "Ugh," she moaned, "it's been a long day."

"Yup," Colby said again, agreeing.

"A long hard day," Devlynn said again. Her day had been overloaded with appointments and such. Alot for one person to do, counselor or not.

Colby giggled a little as Devlynn countinued to massage his little shoulders. He leaned back and rested his head on Dev's chest. He looked upwards at her; she looked down in turn. "Devlynn?" he asked quietly. "Can I ask you something?"

"Why certainly dear. You can ask me anything," she replied as she continued to rub Colby's shoulders.

Colby looked up with longing eyes. "Can I call you Momma?"

Dev's head snapped up. She looked at Colby, trying to see what he was thinking. She hadn't expected this from him, certainly not this fast. The birds and the bees she could have handled without any problem, but this was different, there was no textbook that told you how to deal with this type of a situation.

Devlynn had to carefully plan what she was going to say. She wanted to say yes, and of course she would, but she couldn't allow him to believe that she was trying to take the place of his mother. She couldn't say no, and nor did she want to, because it would leave him feeling rejected and unwanted.

She thought of the boy as her own child. She had already begun refering to him as her 'son' and not just Colby. One of the other counselors had made this observation earlier in the week. She hadn't noticed before. Already he was starting to take over her office. There were letters that he had written to her, pictures and even a test, pinned to the walls.

She turned again and looked deep into the child that sat, staring up at her from within her lap. "Yes, Colby. You may." She smiled. "But, Colby, I want you to know that I'm not trying to take the place of your mother. I want you to know that. You will be Colby Torwyn so long as you choose to remain Colby Torwyn." She smiled.

He blinked twice. Taking in what she had said. "Cool." He said simply. "Thanks Momma!"

"Colby?" Devlynn asked of the boy as he looked at her smiling.

"Yeah?" He asked in return.

"Can you get off of me for a minute, I can't feel my legs." She grinned at him. He leapt off of her, she knew that there was no use in trying to get back to work, besides it was late and her appointments for the day were finished. "Come on, kid. We're going home." She said toying with him she pulled on his ear.

As they cleared the confines of the Counseling offices, she put her studies to work. She had been going over the deck layout of the ship during her time off. "Race ya!" She called as she tore off away from the stunned child.

He let out a mischevious laugh and flew after her.

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

Chiron handed command of Engineering over to the Gamma Chief, and left the cavern-like room, headed for Devlynn's quarters. He wanted to see if Colby was back home.

The Tamarian turned down a corridor, and bumped squarely into Devlynn Salshyar. As the two collapsed to the floor, Colby ran onto the scene, stopped, and began laughing.

'Devlynn...' Chiron sent telepathically, 'Why are we on the floor?'

The Schizoid Man

"The Wait"
By Lt. (jg) Thomas

The diplomatic affair was occurring and all the senior officers where in attendance. Lt. Morris had been asked to replace Commander Coe during the dinner. Chris had never really meet Lt. Morris beyond knowing that she was a science officer. Chris studied his read outs on at ops, he noted an unusual power surge in Holodeck 3. He quickly scanned the area and checked the sensors to verify that nothing was wrong.

The sensors showed there was a minor power surge, however no program was running at the time. He checked the information against of internal sensors to make sure that there wasn't a problem. Chris came to the conclusion that it was nothing more than a minor power surge, and made notes on it for engineering to look into as soon as possible.

He remembered attending Klingon function which involved several large kegs of Bloodwine and other Klingon drinks. He disliked them as he had to always remember to take medication and not drink as much as fast as other Klingons. Which was sometimes embarrassing to say the least. He had to always be on his toes, as his primary suspect to watch for where any Duras supporters and other new potential threats to the Federation. Living with Klingons was more and more exciting than living among Romulans. The Klingons knew who to through parties, which the Romulans did not most likely to their ancient Vulcan connection. Though no Romulan would ever admit to being related to a Vulcan in specific details. Chris was no stranger to attending high level functions, though most of these from his past where he had to act the part he was playing. When doing so for the time that he did he became a good actor and pretending to listen if it wasn't important, or smiling and complimenting someone, who was worthy of such compliments. He suspected that he could still walk right into the dinner, and no one would know that he was there. Unfortunately in order to even try a trick like this he would have need the functions to occur when he didn't have bridge as he had perfected a replica of himself. (ha, ha) The problem even if he put together another AHE unit, one the attachment was easy to spot without doing some work and two inactivity was limited to the database information. Meaning that if Lt. Morris decided to engage him in conversation the program may or may not know how to responded.

The problem was then how to create an interactive program with sufficient data to responded to inquires. He could see himself sitting on the bridge, while he was attending the dinner with the Ambassador. He wonder what the captain would say if he knew that one of his officer had figured out away to be in two place at once. Without begin a Q, or something similar. He had pulled similar ruses on both the Klingons and the Romulans, however the job to so was simple enough, and he didn't have to contend with telepaths ease dropping on his thoughts or lack of thoughts. He wondered what was occurring on the bridge, but at the same time he wonder what was occurring in 10-forward? He enjoyed the evening.

Chris Patton

"Reporting for Duty"
by Ensign Tebrianne

Tebrianne watched from her bed as Julia left for duty, again. Tebrianne sighed as the door slid shut.

"As much as I say it's going to be fun to not have to work here," Tebrianne said to herself, "I think I'll go crazy first."

Tebrianne slid off the bed and padded over to the small closet in her bare feet and nightshirt. She pulled her guitar out of the closet, and returned to her bed.

She rested the instrument across her lap. Tebrianne's hands started moving, slowly at first. Gliding across the strings, her fingers playing out the song she felt inside her. Eyes closed, Tebrianne felt the hushed, unamplified music as it came out of the instrument.

After thirty minutes of losing herself in her music. Tebrianne finally stopped. She smiled to herself, and slowly got off the bed and put her guitar away.

"Computer, record message for Lieutenant Casey-Ti Miran," Tebrianne said.

"Message to Lt. Casey Ti ready."

"Lieutenant, I am Ensign Tebrianne. I came onboard back as the Galaxy stopped over at earth. I am part of your department, but you probably already knew that. I have not seen my name listed on the duty roster yet, and wanted to let you know that I'm here and ready to work wherever you need me. Also, congradulations on the upcoming addition to your family. I look forward to hearing from your and serving under your leadership. Ensign Tebrianne out."

Tebrianne decided it was time to do something productive. She stepped into the small bathroom she and Julia shared and quickly undressed, cleaned up, and got into her duty uniform.

Tebrianne left her quarters and headed towards Ten Forward.

***

Tebrianne slid into a chair after ordering a fruit juice. She played the song she was working on in her quarters over in her head. It was nice. Not her usual style, but she really liked it. This one had a more classical feel to it.

Tebrianne took a sip of her drink and jotted a few notes into her PADD.

"Relief"
by Lt. Ronni Morris
Asst. Chief of Science, USS Galaxy

The shift was almost over. Ronni released the grip on the arm of the Captain's chair and realized that she had cracked it in two places. She would have to get that fixed right away.

She was relieved that everything had gone well. She hadn't crashed or destroyed the ship, and her scans of the Modok nebula had gone well. She had previously reconfigured the sensors to check for variadiotion energy and fluctuations on the ionantic fields. It was her attempt to find a suitable world for Lord Mudd and his crew. Harry had recently contacted her via her mother, and he said they were looking for a class L planet. One that would be inhospitable for most humanoids, but would work for him and his androids. Besides, the information she gathered could be sent back to Starfleet.

As she was switching places with her Shift counterpart, she went over to check the scans. Lt (Jg.) Thomas was more silent than normal. He was running a level two diagnostic of the redundant ODN relays. Boring work, but he seemed engrossed in it.

"So, how is the diagnostic going?" she said lightly.

He just looked at her and didn't say a word. He then turned back to the diagnostic. 'Fine!' she said to herself. 'Be that way.' she thought.

"Have a good day!" she said sarcastically as she headed for the turbolift. 'Well at least my first shift at the conn is over. "I need a good meal and a lot of sleep." she said to herself. "Now, where's K'arta?"

"Ambassador's away team compliment"
by Captain Robert Edward Lee Price

The two days it took to travel to the Dronegar-Rhomboid Sector passed very quickly. The Warp seven speed of the Galaxy no doubt helped in that regard.

Captain's Log, Stardate 49709.22:

The Galaxy is nearing it's destination, the Dronegar Rhomboid Sector. The Galaxy should be dropping out of warp as we approach the planetary systems in preparation for establishing a standard, planetary orbit around Dronegar. Ambassador Lorn and an away team will be prepared to beam down to the surface to open the negotiations for peace. Ambassador Lorn and his companion, mister J'naii are standing by on the bridge as we begin making preparations in anticipation of our arrival.

*****

"So Ambassador," Captain Price began as he looked at Lorn standing by with his hands stowed safely inside his sleeves, "before we arrive, we need to determine who will be accompanying you to the planet surface."

Lorn nodded. "That would be a good use of our time Captain." The Ambassador agreed before continuing, "mister J'naii will naturally be accompanying me. The Exaltii government would not allow me to have come otherwise."

Lee nodded as he looked at the large framed mister J'naii. "I don't see any problem there 'mate. But I was actually referring to personnel from the Galaxy. Additional security officers, a medical officer, etceteras."

"I would prefer not to bring down a large party when we beam down Captain." Ambassador Lorn began, "I do not want to appear threatening to the Rhomboid by having too large of a presence from the Federation."

Lee nodded. "I understand that Ambassador, however Starfleet made it clear that we are not to take unnecessary risks with your life 'mate. The Dronegar-Rhomboid have been warring for centuries. I am afraid I must insist on a full team of armed security officers beam down to accompany you."

Lorn could see the Captain was not going to be swayed on this point. The Deltan supposed that had something to do with Captain Price' recent experiences with loosing personnel under his command. Reluctantly, he agreed. "Very well Captain, you must do what you think is best. I will work with whatever away team you deem necessary."

"Bonzer 'mate." Lee said with a grin. Reaching over he picked up a padd and handed it to his first officer.

"What's this Captain?" Commander Coe asked as he flipped the padd around to look at it.

"It's the away team that will accompany Ambassador Lorn and mister J'naii to Dronegar when we arrive. Look it over quickly and tell me what you think 'mate."

JT began reading the names aloud. "Commander Coe to lead the Galaxy away team, Lieutenant Commander Joerg Sterner, Lieutenant' Soushonn Arcas and Ensign Christopher I. Campbell to provide security for the team, Doctor Kahn Nilani from Medical, and Counselor Leslie Wilson." JT stopped and glanced up at the Captain, "That's a full house Captain, six Galaxy crew members plus the Ambassador and mister J'naii."

"Aye." Captain Price agreed, "Do you think three security officers will be adequate protection 'mate? We could send down another team in a second transport."

"More men might be a good idea sir, however Chief Sterner and these men you've chosen are all very competent at their jobs Captain. I think they should be able to handle it with out too much difficulty. Besides, we will be in orbit should anything happen... we can have a team standing by on alert status just in case we need to send them down on a moments notice."

"I don't think that will be necessary," Ambassador Lorn explained, "for if the Dronegar were not sincere in their desire to end hostilities, they would never of called upon the Federation to help them mediate peace with their Rhomboid neighbors."

"And the Rhomboid?" Captain Price reminded, "What is to prevent them from causing trouble?"

"While it is true that the Rhomboid are a stubborn people, they are not stupid Captain. They do not posses the technology to quickly assemble an interplanetary assault from their home world of Rhomboid to lash out at Dronegar with any expediency. I am sure we should be safe while on Dronegar at these talks. Whether they are successful or not remains to be scene, but I am quite certain the Rhomboid will not attack us under a flag of truce. It is not there way."

"That is good to know Ambassador." Captain Price said solemnly. "Commander Coe, can you contact the people on that list and get them ready for the away team mission right away."

"Aye Captain. I'll do it at once." Coe replied. As he turned, he paused to ask, "How long before we will be in position to beam down Captain?"

Lee glanced over to the Helm. "How about it 'mate? When will we be in orbit around Dronegar?"

Lieutenant Casey-Ti checked her console and then pivoted to address the Captain. She was about to speak, but took a long pause as she tried to fight off a series of sneezes. She was unsuccessful.

"Bless you Lieutenant." Captain Price consoled.

"Thank you Captain. Sorry about that." Miran said with a little blush in her Bajoran cheeks. "We should be entering the Dronegar-Rhomboid Sector within ten minutes. Once we drop out of warp, it should take us another thirty five minutes to enter planetary orbit around Dronegar sir."

"There you go Commander. The Away team should be ready to beam down with Ambassador Lorn and mister J'naii in one hour 'mate."

"Aye sir, I will let the others know Captain." JT said before glancing at Ambassador Lorn and mister J'naii. "I will meet you gentlemen in Transporter room one in sixty minutes?"

"We will be there Commander." Ambassador Lorn said with a slight bow, still holding his hands cozily inside his billowy shirt sleeves.

With a nod, Commander Coe exited the bridge to go and inform the other away team members to prepare for their upcoming mission.

"The Lucky Star"
by Ensign James M. Kagitingan

"You look a bit pale there, eh? Bub?!" the grizzly freighter captain bellowed at the young ensign.

"I'm fine. I think I just spent a little more time than I should have at Fat Albert's last night. At least I had the good sense to stay away from the 'green' stuff."

The freighter captain laughed heartily. "But tha 'green' stuff is tha best. If ya asks me: It's Green? It's goood!" the burly man declared.

James groaned. The day was only getting BETTER and BETTER. This was THE day that every young boy, girl and 1st year cadet had always waited for - the first day of one's first assignment as an active starfleet officer.

After the short leave after graduation, Kagitingan found himself being shuttled from an outpost to transfer points and back to another outpost. This process was starting to become a familiar one and James wondered if Starfleet actually had a billet for him. The waiting was almost unbearable as one day quickly turned into three and before long James had already spent a week in some god-forsaken outpost.

And today Ensign Kagitingan woke up to find a score of Klingons hammering his head with their mugs. Or so it seemed. James had worst head ache across the Federation. Having showered and had his customary two cups of java, James was just about to start feeling human again. The fresh starfleet graduate checked in with the outpost's central command only to find out the shuttle that was supposed to ferry him to the was mysteriously "re-appropriated". It took a bit of cajoling and half of last night's dabo table winnings to convince a PADD-pusher on the station to be resourceful enough to get the young Ensign passage to the Galaxy. The best anyone could come up with was to ride aboard an independent freighter owned by one Old Harry.

James looked over to his travelling companion. After leaving the outpost James had the choice of being strapped in the cargo area with the payload or be strapped in an uncomfortable seat designed by a Klingon masochist-chiropractor. James really wished he had chosen the former.

"Eyy... Eyy!!! Eyyy, Commander! Are ya listening ta me? !"

"You know it's a bit cold in here and its making me a bit woozy," James said as he yawned. The young ensign hugged an old starfleet officer 'bomber jacket' closer to himself .

"Aye, commander. With me alls alone ta pilot and commandeer this ship of mine, got no time ta fix 'em life sport controls. Have ta be here on the bridge, ya know, minding tha store. Never know if there be any Dumonion ships out here just waiting ta hijack my precious cargo. Won't do no good on my record ta lose a fine young starfleet commander!"

In Old Harry's book there were only two kinds of starfleet officers: 'Captains' those who commanded their own ship and 'Commanders' everybody else in starfleet. And for the duration of this trip, James was known as 'Bub' or 'Commander'.

"Oh, of course. Old Harry... mind if I hop over down and take a look at those controls for you?"

"Shuu-orre!!! And then I can tell all the bubs down on tha station that I gots me a real-life starfleet commander ta do some 'special' upgrades!!"

"Ummm... sure, of course! " James replied, anxious to get off the 'bridge'.

==========

Removing the panel off the main environmental controls, James expected a tangled-mass of circuits. This was indeed an old ship but Ensign Kagitingan was suprised that Lucky Star's captain was telling the truth. It seemed that no one really bothered to fiddle with the environmental controls. Everything was covered with a layer of dust, the controls and circuits untouched from the time the ship was last refit.

Too bad he didnt have an engineering tricorder. It's just as well, James thought. At least the manual calibration would take just enough time to keep himself busy. James scrounged around for a tool kit and settled down to work on the life support system.

After replacing some degraded control modules and securing a few that had been jostled loose over the years, James held a hand over a ventilation port. Hmmm... a little to warm. James took off the leather 'bomber jacket' and sat on the deck looking thoughtfully up at the granite-gray ceiling. Ensign Kagitingan was no engineering wizard but he was competent, even good, at most ship board tasks. Routine maintenance and minor repairs to the Lucky Star's life support system were no real challenge. James took his time, dreading his return to the 'bridge' and back into the company of Old Harry.

Calibrating didnt take much mental effort and James' thoughts drifted elsewhere. His recent graduation from the Academy and his successful completion of supplemental training were more than enough to make his heart to swell with pride. James just prayed he wasn't cursed with that special brand of hubris that afflicted many a Starfleet officer. Delusions of grandeur, believing that solely through one's actions one could save the galaxy and what not. The scary thing was that some people actually got away with it. He vowed to purge himself of any such compulsions and feelings.

Lost in thought, Ensign Kagitingan flipped a small control module in his fingers,. No wonder these circuits managed to survive this long without routine maintenance; the design and manufacture of the modules were clearly Klingon despite the casing.

The final exercises at the academy proved to be more enlightening than he initially thought. Those moments of helpessness brought him to a realization. During one simulation, most of his best efforts proved to be useless. He even felt a twinge of jealousy. His fellow trainees had come up with the brilliant plans. James failed in his attempts to bring the cadets together into a cohesive team. He had began to doubt his belief that he would be fit for any command duty. He felt unappreciated, without purpose - the other two cadets probably couldn't have done any worse even if he wasn't there. I guess instructor programmed it that way, James shrugged inwardly. He supposed the biggest lesson during the simulation wasn't how to save a doomed starship. Perhaps team work, acknowledging other noteworthy contributions to the effort and making a choice despite the apparent futility of the situation were more important than one's self and one persons efforts.

The freighter's intercomm system buzzed and crackled along with Old Harry's hoarse voice. "Eyy, Commander. Ya done down there ? We aren't too far from your ship, bub."

" Almost done...", James replied as he finished mirco-scrubbing the deposits that had accumulated between modules and the hard-wiring of the ship.

=========

While the Lucky Star plodded towards the rendeszvous point with the Galaxy, James still found time to clean up, shower and change into a fresh set of starfleet regulation

The ensign was in for another small surprise to find out that the Old Harry's replicators actually produced great cup of strong, black coffee. He only hoped that the java on the Galaxy would taste half as good as Old Harry's. Nestling a cup of coffee in both hands, James re-entered the 'bridge'.

"Did I ever tell you about tha time I ran a mission for Starfleet Intelligence?" Old Harry asked. Without waiting for a reply the tramp freighter pilot proceed to tell his tall tale. James tuned out and switched to another mental subspace channel. An eternity of a half-hour later, the unique shape of a Federation starship came into view.

"Ahh... there she is, bub. Tha Yew-Ess-Ess Galaxy."

James toggled a few switches and opened a channel. "This is Ensign James Kagitingan, aboard... " James resisted to the urge to say Tramp Freighter but decided to be gracious, "... the independent Freighter Lucky Star. Requesting clearance to come aboard."

"Ensign Ka-gee-TING-on. We were expecting you aboard the shuttle Volga."

"Affirmative, Galaxy. My transport was 're-appropriated'"

"Lucky Star, Please hold your position while we confirm."

The half-minute it took for the Galaxy to confirm the transfer and transport oders gave Ensign Kagitingan time to Lucky Star's skipper and wish him the best. Old Harry had one last bit of advice before making his final fare-thee-wells which he whispered for fear of 'Domunion' spy devices. The young Ensign nodded, stood up and collected his belongings. James slung his jacket under his arm and gripped the handle of his suitcase.

"Galaxy to independent freighter Lucky Star. We have a transporter lock on your position. Ready when you are, Ensign."

"Acknowledged, Galaxy... Energize."

"Pride And Prejudice"
USS Galaxy
Lt. Deiran Casey

Casey had two hours before the banquet with Ambassador Lorn. He decided to use them wisely. Miran was spending most of her time sleeping. He tapped his comm badge.

"Miran, I just wanted to let you know that I’ll be in the gym if you need me."

[Okay, thanks honey. Your adoring wife out.] he could hear Miran giggle over the comm right before she tapped her comm badge to discontinue the conversation.

Casey smiled. He loved her so much. She always found a way to invigorate him with her love and make him feel special.

He had some clothes stored at the gym. When he arrived, he changed into his Racquetball attire and met Lt. Tash.

"Hi Jurelle, how was your day?’ Casey asked.

"I’ve had better, way too many sick people on this ship," Tash said jokingly.

"Well, I’m sorry to hear about your day, playing racquetball with me isn’t going to make your day any better. Prepare for a good butt kicking!" Casey laughed at the thought of Jurelle running rampid trying to catch up to the ball.

Jurelle was kind of a tomboy, you’d have to be blind to not notice she was a gorgeous tomboy. He loved Miran, but there was no harm in looking and admiring another woman’s beauty.

Both of them stepped inside the court.

"I’ll let you serve, ladies and tomboy’s first." Casey loved kidding with Jurelle. It infuriated her and made her lose her concentration during the game. Just little things. Casey was a master at manipulation and psychology, he knew how to pull people’s buttons. Which was why they hated him so much.

Jealousy is a despicable sin in the heart of humanity.

He did enjoy racquetball, although there wasn’t a sport he didn’t like, except maybe hockey, he preferred the hard ground to ice. Although ice skating suited him, he was the iceman after all.

Jurelle smacked the ball hard sending it ricocheting off the wall and at Casey at about 120 mph. A great serve, Casey was impressed. He ran hard jumped and met the ball right before it got past him, he smacked it with his racket sending it back at Jurelle even faster than her serve.

Jurelle’s first thought was, "Duck!"

But, she was tough and just managed to return the ball, falling hard on the court.

Deiran was loving this game with Jurelle. He knew that the more he ribbed her, the harder she played and the more competition he received. Casey had to be this way, sometimes it was a curse being so good at everything you did. Casey marked it up to good genes.

This volleying went on for a few more times until finally Jurelle missed.

Casey was pleasantly surprised at how well Jurelle played. She was good.

First game was 15-5, Deiran.

Second game 15- 14 Jurelle.

Third game was 18-16 Deiran.

After the game they both sat on a bench right outside the court. Towel in hand. They were wiping the sweat off there bodies, that seemed to be pouring from every gland in them.

"Well, you play good for a doctor. You’re in better shape than I thought!" Casey laughed.

"I think that’s a compliment?" Jurelle returned, a mean, "watch it buddy" stare in her eyes.

"Thanks for the game. Are we still on for Monday?" Casey asked.

"Yes, I look forward to running you all over the court next time." She laughed. Like she could do that to Deiran. He was too good.

"Hey, I look forward to it. Thanks for the game Jurelle, see ya tonight. Hopefully you’ll smell better."

"Yeah, you too Deiran," Jurelle said as she held her fingers to her nose.

*** officer’s lounge, deck 8 ***

With the banquet in Ten Forward tonight, most of the officers were going to the officers lounge. The last thing Electra needed was a busy Ten Forward, she was already pressed for time.

Casey walked up to the replicators in the lounge and asked for Fruit Juice. He took the cold glass of juice and didn’t wait to swallow the liquid but poured it down his throat, he was thirsty.

He turned around and almost ran over a pretty brunette. He excused himself, the picture of a perfect gentleman, which he was, and made sure the lady was okay. There was something familiar about this young woman.

"Leslie? Leslie Wilson?" Deiran asked, hardly believing it was her.

"Yes, hello Deiran, nice to see you again." Leslie said, showing a shy smile.

"I heard you were on board, I’ve been so busy I didn’t have a chance to say hello. How are things, you finally graduated from the Academy uh?" Deiran said, smiling. He remembered a shy, young girl at the academy. But, this was a woman before him.

"Yes, thanks to you and some long nights studying. But, my senior year, I took your advice and used your study habits and did very well. Your looking great Deiran, your a man now." Leslie smiled at Deiran, she still liked him a little.

"Thank you Leslie, you’ve turned into a stunning woman. It’s too bad I let you get away." Deiran smiled, he loved using his charm on women, something he found difficult to do as a teen. It had come easy now since he met Miran.

Deiran met Leslie when they were in a Chemistry class together at the academy. Leslie needed a study partner. Deiran was the smartest, brightest guy in the class and so she asked him to help her. They started talking. They found out then that they had jogging in common. And every morning before breakfast they would jog together around the Academy’s garden.

One morning Deiran surprised Leslie by asking her out on a date. And that’s how the relationship started. It lasted for a while. It ended when Deiran graduated. He knew that he couldn’t carry on a long distance relationship. But, they parted friends. Deiran remembered his days with Leslie very well. Leslie was proud to know Deiran. At the time, the most popular guy at the Academy, Deiran graduated first in his class, the class of 2372. Deiran was also proud to know Leslie, part of her rubbed off on him. Her selflessness and virtue became a part of Deiran.

They were both better people for knowing each other. The time they spent together helped both of them grow.

They both sat at a table that looked out to the stars. They began to catch up on old times. The jokes she played on Deiran, the parties, the dates, the kissing. They relived all of it.

"I wanted to congratulate you and Lt. Casey-Ti on your child. I’m so happy for you both," Leslie said with a smile, but there was a little bit of pain in her voice, that Leslie choked back from Deiran. She remembered the times she fantasized about being his wife. A fantasy that another woman was living. She was not quite over him. Was he over her? Even though he was married.

"Thank you." Deiran stopped, looked at Leslie in the eyes and he knew, like he was reading her thoughts. "It was hard for me to leave you behind Leslie, you were the first girl I ever loved. You’ll always have a place in my heart, never forget that. But, I can only love you as a friend. Miran means too much to me."

Tears began to fall down Leslie’s cheeks as Deiran spoke. "I know Deiran, I am happy for you. I’m happy to see you happy. I want to be friends. I’ve missed you in my life."

"Well, we always have jogging, right? Why don’t we start jogging in the mornings again? We can start a new phase in our relationship, a friendship. How does that sound?" Deiran needed as many friends as he could get.

"I would like that."

"Let’s start tomorrow morning, okay?" Deiran said as he got up to leave. "I’ll see you at the arboretum at 0600 hours, that okay?"

"Sounds good," Leslie said as she smiled.

*** Ten Forward, 1800 hours ***

The banquet was just about over. For some reason it seemed that Deiran was the only one talking to the Ambassador. Hey if the others wanted to stay right where they were and get nowhere, fine, it’s there lives. It was prejudice, he could see it in everyone’s eyes but the Captain and Commander Coe. Casey was just misunderstood. Casey had a destiny, and anything he could do to quicken that destiny he would do and do to the fullest extent. He was a man who had more pressure on him than anyone knew or cared to know.

Casey had to be an Admiral. Not maybe, he had to be an Admiral, he had to continue the family tradition. It had been bred into him, if he didn’t accomplish this he would be practically disowned by his family, and his place in Casey history would be marred forever.

So, Deiran listened to the Ambassadors stories, did his best to make the man comfortable. There was no harm in that.

*** Holodeck 3, 2000 hours ***

Casino Royale. Grear had done a great job in the programming.

He came here right after the banquet. Got in a game immediately.

He won four straight hands. Hewson was beginning to get jealous. Deiran could tell Hewson didn’t like him. Deiran never did anything to this man. Let him be petty as far as Deiran was concerned. He wasn’t changing for anybody.

In the last hand of the night, Casey did his best bluffing. He looked at Blair, who seemed to be studying the atomic cell structure of his cards.

"Hey Blair, are you going to conduct experiments with those cards or are you going to meet my 50?" Casey said with a smile.

"Okay, I’ll meet your fifty and raise it by another 50." Troy was getting eager.

"Fine, no problem, I’ll meet your fifty," Deiran said and threw the chips into the pile in the middle of the table.

The jazz band was kicking. It was creating perfect atmosphere for the game. Casey was really having fun.

Erikson was staring at Casey trying to figure out what Deiran was doing. Casey had been beating everyone with inferior hands and it was getting on everyone’s nerves. Erikson thought he’d call Casey’s bluff. After all he had a straight flush, the odds were against Casey beating him.

"I’ll meet your 50 Deiran, and yours Blair and raise by 20."

Hewson matched Erikson’s bet.

"Well, that puts me out, no more chips left," Chan said as he placed his cards on the table.

Everyone placed their cards on the table. Casey was the last one to do so.

He smiled, a grin that said, "Suckers!" Even to the last he was bluffing.

"Good game Grear, well done," Casey said as he placed his three of a kind on the table.

Grear won the hand and a hefty amount of chips.

"I hate to leave such good company. Especially you AC, I know how much you love me, but I have a pregnant wife to get home to. I’m tired also, been a long day. Thanks for the game."

He left the Holodeck and caught a turbolift to his quarters.

He was surprised to see the Counselor.

"Hello Dev, your up late. How are you this evening?" Casey asked.

"Fine thanks Deiran. You look exhausted. Are you okay?" Dev asked in her usual way. Casey thought she was going to pull out a pad and start taking notes.

"Yes I’m fine. I pulled an 8 hour shift, played racquetball with Dr. Tash, attended the banquet tonight as you know, and just left from playing poker with some friends in the holodeck. And I have to get up at 0600 tomorrow to go jogging with Counselor Wilson."

"Sounds like your keeping yourself busy. Where is Miran in all of this?" Dev asked, concerned for the Chief Ops Officer.

"She and I are fine Dev. We’re in love more now than we were when we were married. I spend all day with her, I take care of her at night. Frankly she’s been tired a lot lately and so she’s been resting. I’ve had a lot of energy and need a way to get it out of me. I always make time for Miran, she has priority in my life. And so does my child." Deiran was sounding a little defensive, Dev noted this.

"I’ll make an appointment for you with me for say 1700 hours on Sunday? We should discuss this more."

"Thank you Counselor but I’m fine." Deiran said politely.

Dev told the turbolift to stop. It stopped cold. She turned to Deiran and looked him straight in the eye, "Deiran, if you keep your feelings inside like this your going to have a nervous breakdown. You need my help, I can read your thoughts you know? I’m a Betazoid. I want to help you, but you won’t let me. Your concerned, nervous…maybe even scared of the fact your going to be a father soon. You need to deal with those feelings, Deiran or it’s going to eat you up inside."

"Thank you Dev for your concern. But, I don’t fear anything! Never have… never will! I’ll deal with fatherhood on my own terms. I know you mean well, but I can’t deal with my feelings in the normal way. Casey’s don’t talk about their feelings to doctors, they just deal with them and move on. My great-great grandfather was like that all the way to me. I’m dealing with this by keeping myself occupied, venting my energy. And I feel great."

Dev was quiet for a moment and said, "No all your doing is running from your feelings!" She stopped and told the turbolift to continue. Dev exited, saying good night and then turned around, "I’ll expect you at 1700 hours in my office. I can order you there you know?" She smiled and started for her quarters.

*** Casey Quarters ***

"Miran, I’m home!" Deiran said to an empty room as he entered. "Miran? Miran?" he called out as he searched the rooms.

"Computer, locate Lt. Casey-Ti Miran."

[Lt. Casey-Ti Miran is on Holodeck 1]

"She didn’t tell me she was going there." Casey left his quarters, entered the first turbolift and proceeded to holodeck 1.

*** Holodeck 1***

Casey entered the holodeck and found his wife asleep in a carriage. "Computer, pause program."

Everything stopped, froze in place. Deiran climbed into the carriage, sat next to Miran. He woke her up. "Hi gorgeous, or should I say sleeping beauty? Mind if I join you?"

Miran smiled and kissed him. "No not at all. It’s good to see you." Miran moved close to Deiran, resting her head on his chest. He put her arms around her. They looked like their bodies were glued together, they were so close.

"Computer, continue program." Everything resumed, Deiran gave the computers some commands. He turned the program to night, added a few lights and turned it into a romantic rendezvous. "Driver, continue please."

Deiran and Miran enjoyed each other’s company. Talking about the baby, about their lives, their own love and enjoyed the cool night air of the park. The park resembled Central Park of New York, but it was cleaner and safer than the real thing. It was a vastly different program from what Miran had been running. But, she didn’t mind, she was with her man, in his arms, on a romantic carriage ride. Totally unexpected, totally on a whim, Deiran had managed to make Miran feel special. He didn’t even mention the fact she had fallen asleep.

She couldn’t sleep now.

"Confused Matters"
Lt Casey Ti Miran

Miran sighed. She left Deiran's dinner on its place at the table. He was gone again. He really confused her. He was never around and she felt like he was putting a wedge between them. Then he would do something like the other night on the holodeck and make it feel as if nothing was wrong.

She tried to be brave but sometimes she felt that he didn't want this baby. She tried to tell herself that it was her imagination, that nothing was wrong and it was just her.

She understood that he needed to have a life away from her but it still hurt that he never around, never included her in his fun. Miran wished that this baby wasn't coming now but at a later time when Deiran was ready to accept his growing family.

"Oh baby, I love you," she whispered with a hand feeling the kicks of an active baby. Miran needed to talk to Dr Kahn. She was always tired. She would go later.

Before she left to go to Ten-Forward, to sit in her chair in front of the windows, something she hadn't done it a while, she sat down to answer the communique she recieved from Ensign Bancroft. Miran smiled to herself once again thinking about the interesting ensign.

TO: ENSIGN BANCROFT
FROM: LT CASEY TI

SUBJECT: Shift Rotation

As requested in your letter, I am writing to inform you of your assignment to Gamma shift. This is effective immediately.

Lt Casey Ti Miran, Chief Helmsman

Then she left her quarters for Ten-Forward. One of the waiters brought her a mixed fruit drink and she let herself

get lost into the stars that she so dearly loved. A single tear slid down her cheek.

By Lt. Chiron & Counselor Salshyar USS Galaxy - NCC-70637

'Devlynn...' Chiron sent telepathically, 'Why are we on the floor?'

'Chiron, what are you doing here?' Dev said as she rose and brushed herself off. The Tamarian engineer was a long way from his quarters. She reached and gave Chiron her hand as Colby came running up from behind them. He stopped to see what had happened.

'I was on my way to visit Colby.' He returned in her head.

She let go of his hand. He nearly hit the floor again. A mischevious grin playing across her face. 'You're just using him to get to me, aren't you?' She paused. 'Come on now, admit it!'

The Tamarian cocked his head to one side. Obviously confused. Dev laughed and smiled, 'it was a joke honey.' She shook her head slightly. 'Engineers,' she projected, rolling her eyes visibly. He poked at her shoulder. She grinned.

Colby, tired of watching them, bolted, "Ha ha!" He screamed. "I'm gonna beat you Momma!"

Chiron's head twisted to the side. Colby, though not yet a telepath used enough mental power with his vocal speech for Chiron to be able to pick up what he was saying. 'Momma?' Chiron queried inside Dev's head.

Dev beamed. 'Yeah, he asked me if he could call me Momma!' She replied.

'Great!' Chiron echoed her sentiments.

'Now,' she said stepping away from the Tamarian, 'we've gotta beat him to my quarters...' She smiled as she began to run down the corridor.

Stunned the Tamarian hesitated a minute before he ran after the Betazoid counselor. He caught up quickly. Chiron eassily passed Dev, and closed in on Colby. As he approached the child, he bent over, and scooped Colby into his arms. Colby squealed with laughter, and Dev rounded the corner, huffing and puffing.

Dev sighed as she sank against the wall beside Chiron and Colby. 'I guess I'm a little out of shape. Too many case studies,' she grinned at the two of them, niether one was listening. They scrambled around on the ground.

She sighed, still out of breath, and walked over them, toward her quarters. Colby was in good hands, and besides. This way, she would win the race!

Chiron and Colby entered the room slightly after Dev, acknowledging the fact that she had, although through slightly improper means, won the race.

"I'm hungry," Colby said.

"Well, there's a surprise." She said. Grasping her chest in a dramatic fashion. 'Would you like to join us?' She asked of the Engineer.

'What is for dinner?' He asked Dev.

'I don't know...' she said. Looking at Colby.

"Spaghetti!" He said aloud. It was good that Colby, though not telepathic, was close enough that he could sense what Chiron was saying to him. His Betazoid senses were well developed for his age. It made communication between the three of them that much easier.

'Spaghetti it is, then.' Dev repeated.

Chiron had never tried "spaghetti". He had seen in listed several times in the replicator menus, but never cared to sample it.

He nodded, then sent specifically to Dev, 'I have never eaten a spaghetti before. What is it like?'

'Spaghetti?' Dev said a smile playing over her face. 'It's a recipe that originated on Earth a few thousand years ago. It's made with a sauce, in this case vegetarian, on top of noodles.'

Chiron cocked his head to one side. Not fully understand. 'Just wait, you'll see.' She said.

Devlynn walked over to the replicator, and spoke her commands. Three steaming plates of a stringy whitish substance covered in a thick red sauce materialised on the small platform.

Colby grabbed one of the plates, spiriting it off to the table, while Dev attempted to take the other two plates. Chiron hurried over, taking one of the platters, and they joined Colby at the table.

Colby was finished in record time and gone into his room. He brought all manner of trinkit while the two adults ate their food. Pausing to comment on this or that. Laughing every now and again. After he had totally destroyed his room looking for things to show off, he started the fashion show. This took some time. They were finished eating long before it was over.

When it was done, Colby colapsed on the couch, exhausted. 'Poor little guy.' Chiron said as he and Dev conversed.

'What do you mean?' She asked.

'Taken from his family at such a young age, moved on the ship already. He's led a heck of a life for one so small.'

'He's a very strong child, you know.' Dev returned.

'I can see that.' The Engineer said.

A quiet alarm went off in the bedroom. 'If you'll excuse me, that's Colby's chronometre, it's time he be in bed.' She smiled. She scooped up the small form and placed him in bed. She covered him up and moved back out into the living room.

Chiron was standing. 'Well, thank you for dinner.' He said as she approached him.

'You are welcome.' She said. 'May I walk you back to your quarters?' She asked.

'Why?' He said, somewhat confused.

'I have someone to see afterward. Colby will be alright here until then. The doors are programmed not to let him out and the bird can contact me in case of an emergency.' Chiron glanced at the telepathic bird that he had sensed throughout the entire time he spent in Dev's quarters. It made him slightly nervous.

'Very well.' He said. They left for his quarters.

'Good night,' she said finally as they arrived at the doors to the Assistant Chief of Engineering's quarters.

'Good night Dev,' he said as the door swished closed. She sighed. This had been a very strange few weeks.

She headed off toward the front of the mammoth vessel called Galaxy. "Ten Foreward." She said to the Turbolift computer.

In a moment she was outside the doors of Ten Foreward. She left the holodeck and entered the large room. It was bascially empty but for a few people off of Beta shift that hadn't gone to be yet. She had been talking to Deiran Casey the night before, after the banquet for the Ambassador. They had an appointment in a few days.

But now, Miran was the object of her thoughts. Dev saw the bajoran Helmsman sitting her in chair, staring out into the stars. She didn't hear anything as Dev approached. "May I join you Lt.?" She asked as she got close enough.

Miran jumped visibly. "I'm sorry, I didn't hear you come up Counselor." She said as she turned to look at her.

Dev saw the stains from the tears on Miran's face. Dev sat and pulled her chair around so that she could face Miran. "How are things going Miran?" She asked.

"Very well Counselor." Miran said.

"Don't mind my being so frank, but I don't think that's the whole truth Lieutenant." The counselor said.

"Counselor, with all due respect, I'm doing... fine." The final word caught in her throat. She choked it out with a sob.

"Miran," she looked her in the eye. "What's wrong?" She gave her one of those, 'you tell me or I'll find out for myself' looks.

"It's Deiran!" She gushed. She flopped forward onto the Counselor's shoulder. Sobbing quietly.

"Mystery Guest Part II"
by Lt jg K'Eytyanna Samara
---------------------------

K'Eytyanna checked her chronometer every five minutes, anxious to finish her duty shift so that she could quietly beam D'Akana aboard.

Finally, end-of-duty shift came up and she stayed back like she had planned. Waiting ten minutes, she activated the pre-set signal she had setup and smiled when the signals coming back made it look like one of the personal transporters was malfunctioning, something that wouldn't take very long to fix though. Sliding down the ladder, she walked up to Lt Boudreau and handed them a PADD before saying,

"I was running a test and these results came back. Even though I should have finished shift already, I'll check in on it since it won't take long." Melissa nodded and she grabbed a transporter repair-kit before leaving.

Stepping into an empty turbolift, she ordered,

"Deck 14, Personal Transporter 5."

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

Stepping into the transporter room, she breathed a sigh of relief when she found it empty. Walking upto the console, she tapped her combadge,

"Lt jg Samara to Bridge."

[This is Lt Sterner. What's up, Lieutenant?]

"Just wanted to inform you that I found a glitch in Personal Transporter 5 and am going to have to take it and its sensors offline for awhile, plus one of the external emitters just for safety. Don't want anyone beaming through the same emitter and having this one scramble the pattern."

[Acknowledged. Bridge out.] Quickly, she typed in the commands to put the console into non-secured mode before turning to the terminals behind her. Just as effortlessly, she routed control of one of the Stardrive section's transporter emitters to her control.

"D'Akana, won't be much longer now. Locking onto co-ordinates, synchronising biofilter for your species now and initiating transport."

She activated the transporters and a large stasis chamber appeared on the pad. Walking over to it, she wiped the frost off the glass window and looked inside to see her pet targ sleeping soundly. After checking the life-sign panels, she went back to the console and beamed the chamber directly to her quarters after waiting for the pattern buffer cooldown and reset to finish.

Opening up the transporter console, she removed the isolinear chips that store the record of the console's transports and slipped in two blank ones before throwing the incriminating ones onto the transporter pads. Hitting some more buttons after closing up the panel, she set the transporter to beam them into space and disengaged the annular confinement beam, causing them to disperse in space in a form that guaranteed no one could ever read the data again.

Tapping her combadge again as she put the transporter plus emitter array back into active mode, she spoke,

"Lt jg Samara to Bridge, Personal Transporter 5 is fixed and ready for use at anytime."

She recieved an acknowledgement and left the room, a grin on her face as she headed to her quarters and ready to welcome aboard the unknown stowaway, subconsciously skipping in happiness.

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

K'Eytyanna burst into her quarters and quickly hurried over to the stasis chamber. Tapping some of the buttons, she went to the replicator and ordered a non-synteholic Scotch while the chamber slowly prepared itself to wake up its sleeping occupant.

The chamber spoke with a thick Klingon accent,

[Stasis chamber ready for paitent awakening. Initiating warming cycle. Estimated time to full awakening at five standard Federation minutes.]

Putting her drink down, she opened up a side panel and retrieved a set of Starfleet-style isolinear chips. Selecting one, she slipped it into her computer terminal and ordered the computer to display the data, which turned out to be fairly extensive medical information on targs. Removing the chip, she went throught the rest to find Federation replicator records of twenty-one meals for a well-balanced targ diet plus some other essential items, legal documents stating that K'Eytyanna was the sole guardian of D'Akana since no one else wanted to, and a personal message for her from her uncle.

She heard a loud beep before the chamber spoke,

[Paitent is ready to awaken. Final authorization needed to awaken.]

"Stasis chamber, awaken your paitent." A light changed from a blue color to green, followed by a soft hiss, and D'Akana's eyes opened up. K'Eytyanna rushed over to him and lifted him out of the chamber before carrying him over to her bed. He rubbed his nose into her arm and grunted happily as she lay down on the bed next to him.

She rubbed him on the snout,

"Bet you're a hungry targ after that journey. Sorry about that, but it was the easiest way. I'll get you something to eat." Walking into the main chamber, she put the replicator chip into her replicator and spoke,

"Computer, read in replicator record Targ Supplement 1 on chip and replicate it."

[Reading... Acknowledged.] A few seconds later, a large glass container full of what looked like a mix of raw meat, some sort of thick green liquid and vegetables appeared. Pulling it out, she put it on the table as she scratched her chin,

"How in hell are you going to eat from that?" He walked over to her and sat at her feet, rubbing against her.

"Computer, list items on the chip inside replicator."

[Targ Supplements 1 thru 21, targ-sized mattress with surround, targ- sized feeding bowl, collection of multi-colored balls, targ hygenie products.]

"That's it. Computer, replicate targ-sized feeding bowl." Quickly, a large and quite deep blue-coloured bowl, complete with four supports jutting out from the top so it wouldn't tip, appeared in the replicator phase transition chamber. D'Akana started wagging his tail when he saw his feeding bowl and started bumping against K'Eytyanna.

"Easy, boy." She carried the bowl and container into the bathroom, where she emptied the container into his bowl, filling it about two-thirds. D'Akana quickly poked his nose in and started ravenously devouring it.

Moving back into the main section, she shook her head at the sound coming from the bathroom.

"Computer, try replicating the targ-sized bed. I don't reckon it will fit though."

[Size specification conforms to phase transition chamber.] The replicator hummed with power and delivered a rolled up foam mattress plus four plastic-coated steel rectangular sheets and four corner supports to form the surround with. By the time D'Akana had finished his meal, his bed was setup and some balls plus a litter tray were waiting in a corner out of the way.

He walked out and headed straight to his bed. By the time K'Eytyanna turned, he had closed his eyes, tired after the long journey.

----------------------------------------------------------------------
Lt jg K'Eytyanna Samara, USS Galaxy NCC-70637 Engineering Department

"Dinner"
by Lt. Ronni Morris
Asst. Chief of Science, USS Galaxy

K'arta and Ronni entered Ten Forward looking for fun. There weren't any empty tables, but at one of the tables was a young Ensign working at a PADD. Ronni walked up and said, "Ensign, the Captain wants to see you an the Bridge. Right away!!"

The Ensign quickly started to gather her things when K'arta elbowed Ronni in the ribs. They both started to laugh. The Ensign looked up questioningly.

Ronni said, "I'm joking Ensign. I'm Lt. Ronni Morris and this is Lt. (Jg.) K'arta. We really just wanted to know if we could sit at your table. As you can see, " she said looking around, "the place is kind of crowded!!"

The Ensign thought about it for about five seconds, and then sitting back down slowly said, Maybe, but it'll cost you a drink."

Ronni and K'arta laughed and said in unison, "Done!!"

The young Ensign reached across the table as the two women sat down and said, "I'm Ensign Tebrianne, Helm. I just was transferred here."

"Welcome aboard." said K'arta. Ronni was signalling for the harried waiter and when he got there, Ronni ordered Qwu'litaak with Violi Sauce and a Romulan Ale. K'arta ordered a Roasted Vupak with Vulcan Spice Rice and a Bloodwine, and Tebrianne ordered Fettucini Alfredo and a Synthale.

The three women talked for a couple of hours before deciding to do K'arta's program on the holodeck. They rode horses, Ensign Tebrianne was a much better rider than Ronni was. Ronni held on for dear life most of the time, but they had a great time.

"Dinner II"
by Lt. Ronni Morris

The three women talked for a couple of hours before deciding to do K'arta's program on the holodeck. They rode horses, Ensign Tebrianne was a much better rider than Ronni was. Ronni held on for dear life most of the time, but they had a great time.

Tebrianne wheeled her dun towards a hill rising to the left. She rode the horse ha

rd up the hill, its hooves pounding into the ground, churning up grass and dirt. She very nearly squealed with delight.

Ronni and K'arta caught up as Tebrianne reigned her mount to a stop. She waited, silhouetted on the hill, for them to catch up.

"This is great," she said. "I haven't been riding for about four years. It all comes back after a few minutes in the saddle, though. You haven't been around horses much, have you, Ronni," Tebrianne said with a smile. "But as long as you're having fun out here, it doesn't really matter."

***

When they'd finished the ride and were making their way out of the holodeck, Tebrianne went over everything in her head.

"Thank you," she said, "for this. It was great. I had a lot of fun. Do you do this often?"

"All the time," Ronni joked. "Doesn't it show?"

All three giggled, as Ronni mimed falling off a horse.

"Thank you for everything," Tebrianne said. "Now I need to go get some sleep. I have to work finally. Gamma shift."

Tebrianne waved, multihued hair bouncing, as she started moving down the corridor. She got back to her quarters and crawled into bed...time to readjust her body clock.

"Its a big GALAXY out there!!"
by Ensign Felicia 'CAT' Khatroweena

*** Crew Quarters aboard USS Valiant ***

"Well, CAT, What can you tell about the creature?"

"Very little Captain. Besides the obvious - silicoid base structure, no life signs, no apparent cause of death. There is very little I can report about the creature."

"Anything else?"

"With out that uniform, you are really gorgeous Captain James T Kirk."

"Well you are the Doct...... CAT, CAT. ENSIGN KHATROWEENA will you wake up.

Who says I am asleep, who is saying those things. (SPLASH)

And the return to reality is not a kind one. When I get hold of that Blair and his engine room hooch I am going to tear him apart. The thudding of my heart adds to the cacophony of noise that is thumping into my brain. The cold water has pulled back the comfortable black sheets of sleep and thrown me screaming into unforgiving ice-cold hands of reality.

"Thanksss Torrri, I am awake. I just want to make you feel rrreally guilty, You scrrrewwed up my chance with him."

"Who?"

"Kirrrk"

"Not your famous Admiral friend again. I can't really see what you see in a man that has been dead for almost one hundred years."

Tori Vewson, Class of 72, Engineering, Ensign - aboard the USS VALIANT. Friend and fellow Starfleet Graduate. Great with machines, can make a warp core do some amazing things, but she has not got a romantic bone in her body. Hmmm, maybe I could transplant some in her. Does not help being dumped by her boyfriend on Terra.

"He mmmay be dead, but you have got to admmmit it would be fun."

"If all the logs are true, he spent more time in bed with women, than he did on the bridge. But I don't want to go on about it any more, I have some good news."

"Asss good asss KIRRRK."

"CAT!!"

"Go on."

"The transfers have come through. I've got the new Melbourne and guess where you are going?"

If the last few days have anything to go by, I probably got the 'USS Trash Can.'

"I haaave nno ideea, Torrri. Wherrre?"

"Guess!!"

"Torrri, I haaave a splitting headache. Thisss betterrr be rrreeeally good."

"Better than KIRK!"

I half stumbled and fell out of bed. As a fully qualified doctor with multiple qualifications for most of the races common in the Federation, you would think I would learn the 'evils' of alcohol. No Way, one of the few ways to get that buzz and still be legal, syntha-hol just does not cut it. Being a doctor, I knew how to handle the hangover. Large glass of water (deal with the de-hydration), big glass of orange juice (replenish vitamin C.) A couple of psuedo-endorphins (deal with the ache) and eye drops (give that wide awake, I'm ready for the day look.) Presto chango, No one knows I have done anything but go over medical texts last night.

"You were with Blair last night huh??!"

"None of yourrr bussinessss!!"

"So are you gonna guess or what?"

"Ok, Ok, Ok - Ummm, Look Torrri will you jussst tell meeee!"

"Spoilsport, you have got the GALAXY"

"RRRight Torrri, Like I would get the GALAXY, that is like sssaying I got the ENTERRRPRRRISE."

A PADD is shoved under my nose and to my dis-believing eyes my name has the word 'GALAXY' next to it. I grabbed the PADD from her hand and started looking through the orders. Yep, no doubt about it - KHATROWEENA, ENSIGN Felicia, (DOCTOR) - USS GALAXY. Effective this date 47909.02. I'm on the GALAXY. It's just not possible, me on the GALAXY. That is as close as getting the ENTERPRISE as you can get. Oh WOW!!!

"So Miss Doubting Puss??"

She knows I hate that!!

"Well?"

"Ok, OK - What timmme isss it?"

"Almost time for Alpha shift. In fact you have only a few minutes to get ready."

"Thank you, I lovvve you asss well."

"See you in the Lounge after shift"

*** Sickbay aboard the Valiant ***

"Good morning, Doctor"

"Good morrrning, Doctorrr"

Chief Medical Officer Lance Dorn has gotten all formal on me. Something is up!

"I saw the crew transfers this morning, I want to congratulate you on your assignment. And to say that you are going to be sorely missed here on the Valiant. Your skills and knowledge have been a valuable asset here on board."

What DOMINION member would want to take the place of Dorn, that can be the only reason he is like this.

"I just want to add one thing, if I seemed a bit harsh on you over the last year it is because I see a potential in you that I have only seen in a few people. I also see someone that is wasting that potential. I think your posting on the GALAXY is going to be the only way for you to fully use all of it. I have re-assigned the roster for today and tomorrow. Use the time to say good bye. I know how hard it can be sometimes. And again, CONGRATULATIONS."

Compared to the back slapping and hugging for the next few minutes that I received from the Medical Staff, the thing that got me was Dorn's speech. I never knew he really felt that way.

*** 2 days later, Captain's Ready Room aboard the Valiant ***

"Ensign Khatroweena, your shuttle leaves in 10 minutes. I don't think you should be late, do you.

"No Sirrr"

"Ensign, Captain Price is a good man, we were at the academy together and served our first cruise on the same vessel. One thing, before you go. While on board the GALAXY, do your utmost and he will do his best to look after you. If you could, send regards from an old friend, tell him that old Stonewall Jackson is still keeping an eye on the GENERAL. You now have less than 10 minutes to get to your shuttle, Ensign."

*** 36 hours later, Approaching the GALAXY ***

"Ensign, approaching the GALAXY now"

I have been looking at the GALAXY on the sensors for half an hour. It's looking through the shuttle's forward windows that the immense size of the GALAXY class vessel hits you. One of the sleekest and dare I say it 'sexiest' vessels that exists. A dream of any officer, to serve on such a vessel, such an important vessel.

"Ensign, Wake Up"

I come out of my reverie as a pair of fingers is snapped in front of my face. I feel a little stupid as I turn to face the shuttle pilot.

"Ensign, Have you finished looking? I have to make my approach now. You have been looking at the GALAXY for 20 minutes."

"Sorrry, I did not rrrealise the timmme."

"Not to worry Ensign, it happens to everybody. Even old spacehounds who have seen it a thousand times react the same way sometimes."

The closer we got the Main Shuttle Bay the less the ship looked like a ship and took on the scale of a natural feature, like looking at a mountain range, I felt very small.

A huge floating city, with over a thousand people on board. As the shuttle entered the bay, there was activity as supplies, equipment and anything else that is required to turn the ship into a self contained worldlet. The shuttles ferrying the items that could not be transported, people milling about, doing what needed to be done. All this just seemed insignificant to the size of the ship itself.

"Ensign, You have it bad"

"Havvve what?"

"Wunderlust"

"Ohh!"

"Good Luck on your assignment."

"Thanx."

As I exited the shuttle, I could feel a shiver go up and down my spine and my tail was almost ram rod straight up. As part Caitan, it is hard to hide many of my emotions, my tail has a habit of giving it away. I really must have looked a sight, a dumbstruck ensign with her tail at high looking at everything going on like a three year old child in a zoo.

"You are a new one."

"Parrrdon, what?"

"Lt Erikson, Greer Erikson and you are?"

"Ensign Khatrrroweeeena, uh Felisssia, Hi."

"Welcome aboard the GALAXY."

"Thanx, Umm, Could you tell mmmee howw to get to Sssickbay"

"That's easy Ensign, Nearest Turbo Lift, Say 'Sickbay.' and there you are."

"Thanx again."

"No problem."

Oh what a fool I must have looked liked asking on how to get to Sickbay. The ride to Sickbay seemed to take an eternity. It felt like a dream and any moment I was going to get woken up. Finally, the turbo lift doors opened up onto the Medical Department of the GALAXY.

As I entered I saw my new CO, a TRILL. I wonder what it is like to have two brains doing the thinking. What happens when the two have a disagreement? Do they decide never to talk to each other again? As I was about to report myself for duty...

"Chief Medical Officer Tash, good to see you. Sorry that I can't greet you properly but I am a little busy at the moment. Why don't you settle into your quarters and report back here in two hours. Then everything can be done properly."

After inquiring to the computer the location of my quarters, I began to unpack and decided that I would rest for the two hours. It had been a hectic few days and rest was what I required. I got the computer to buzz after ninety minutes. I could feel that my life was about to change and for the better.

"Cards with Faces"
by Ensign Burns

John had taken a sonic shower and had put on a fresh uniform. He was very sore from his hockey game with Ensign Chris Campbell. John had played well and so did Chris. They had beat the other team 7 to 6 in overtime; a dramatic victory. John had scored the final and winning goal with a fabulous pass from Chris. John had scored two goals and one assist throughout the game while Chris had a hat trick and one assist. John couldn't wait until their next match where they would play on opposite teams against each other.

John replicated a cold pink lemonade and sat down in front of the console. "Computer, are their any messages."

'There is one message from Lt.(jg) Erikson.'

"Computer play message."

Ensign Burns, I am happy to hear that you are interested in joining are poker games. We will be playing tonight in Holodeck Three at 19:00 hours. Your are welcome to come and join us.

Lt.(jg) Erikson

'End of message'

Realizing that the game had already started, John left for Holodeck Three to see if he could still join the game.

************Holodeck 3*************

When John arrived he realized he was on a ship on a river. Their was a band and several tables with players at them. It was a nice touch having music and the setting of a boat.

"Ensign Burns, I presume." someone called out from one of the tables. John walked over and introduced himself, "Hi I'm Ensign John Burns and you can call me John or Burnsie."

"Alright then Burnsie, it's nice to meet you I'm Lt.(jg) Greer Erikson and Greer is good for me." The others at the table introduced themselves to John and they asked John to take a seat.

John sat down, was given some chips and then the cards were dealt out. John knew that none of the other players would know his style and he also knew that he didn't know the style of the other players. He decided to make tonight a learning experience or in other words to learn the others styles of play.

John played the whole night exactly the opposite of how he usually plays so it would throw everyone off in future games.

John was great at showing no emotion in his face. It was the thing he does best in poker. However, he stuck to his plan and during the game he made as many faces as possible. He was making out pretty well even with the different strategy. In fact he almost had the exact amount of chips at the end of the game as he had in the beginning.

At one point in the game John thought he had it won with three jacks but, Greer pulled through with a straight flush.

When the night finally came to an end John said good bye to his new poker friends and headed off to his quarters. When he reached his quarters he put on some sleep attire and crawled into bed. John immediately fell asleep as he was exhausted from his long day of fun.

Ensign J.A.Burns\Tactical Dept. aka Pat Burns

"Mutiny after supper"
by Civilian Electra

Puffed up pride exuded from Electra's very being. The dinner had been a great success and as she watched the two Deltans depart the room, she thought " the only thing that could have made this evening better is if I could have been that young Deltan ensign". She smiled to herself and chuckled under her breath "well, there will be many opportunities."

She turned to watch the waiters now sitting in a corner themselves relaxing.

"What are you doing? Your shift isn't over and we still have to get this place back to normal. Get back to work!" She had been pushing hard all day and now at the end of this exhausting day she pushed once too often.

"Not likely... Ms manager, we are on a break and you'd be wise to take one yourself before the entire staff leave you to work alone.

"This is not a time for breaks. When the work is done and Ten Forward looks as it should for the next shift to relax and enjoy... then and only then can you take a break." Electra was barely able to contain her anger as she spoke. The look on the faces of her staff were that of shear disgust. They continued to sit and turned themselves away from her gaze. "I did say get back to work! Do you all wish to be fired?"

Two of the waiters F'lar and Deame turned to once again face the irate manager of Ten Forward. Both males quietly stood and began to walk away as Electra's face turned a deep shade of green with anger. Her protests went unheard by F'lar and Deame and as she continued to fume two other waiters got up and quietly left the lounge.

Electra rushed over to the bar, where Hargen and ( ) the bartender stood. In her flustered state she was prepared to let into Hargen as well, but before she had a chance to...

"Electra" said Hargen the calm Elasian chef spoke softly to the harsh expression on Electra's face. "If you don't attempt to befriend or at least tone down your attitude with your staff, You will be in charge of a lounge that is devoid of staff and therefore devoid of customers." His appeal went to the core of the sensuous business woman. She is first and foremost a business woman.

Her composure returned as she spoke with slow deliberate words. "Hargen, would you please request the return of my staff. You can tell them that they may return after a 15 min. brake and complete the tasks assigned to them. I will not take action or notify the Captain of their insubordination this time. But if it happens again they may be assured there WILL be reprecussions." She turned and left Ten Forward herself carefully leaving room for the mutinous staff to return unheeded.

Upon reflection Electra thought how fortunate it was that this had happened after the Captain and Ambassador had departed...

&&&&&&

As the days went by and the USS Galaxy neared the Dronegar Rhomboid Sector, the staff, though still disgruntled with Electra's brusque style of management, were now working as a unit. THey had been working together for a long time before Electra had made her appearance and despite her, they would carry on to maintain the Ten Forward lounge.

"The Cover-up pt. 1"
by Lt. Thomas

Chris was in a hurry to depart the dinner, it had been a lovely dinner. He wasn't going to push his luck in 10-forward and get caught by someone. He knew time was the enemy, once the dinner started to break up he left for his quarters. He walked out and reached his quarters uninterrupted by anyone. He had successfully pulled off the ruse.

***

Chris listened to Lt. Morris, but was running a level 1 diagnostic which required his full concentration. He would send a letter of apologize to her, explaining his lack off response to her question. He felt that she deserved a response, he didn't intend be rude, but he was running some additional complex calculations. Plus there was the documents that he had received had spent his free time working on them since he got them. There was over 300 pages that he had decode and there was questions about if there wasn't hidden information that he had have to go through to get the answers he needed.

Chris Patton

*** Bridge -- Beta Shift **

As Lt. Nathan Kane made his way onto the Bridge for the first time in several months (nearly a year now), he got several big grins from the crew that knew he had been with the Galaxy before. He went over and sat down at helm; a different position from what he was used to (in Engineering). But he decided that he liked it.

"Hey Nathan!" called a voice from behind him. Kane turned around to see his old friend, Commander Coe.

"Afternoon sir." replied Kane, respectfully.

"Kane your forgetting... call me JT. I may be your superior, but I'm also your friend."

Kane relaxed immediately. He'd been away from the galaxy so long that he really *had* forgotton about his and JT's frendship.

Kane spent a few more minutes talking to Coe and the rest of the crew, briefly catching up on the situation at hand, and the major events in his absence (he'd already read the official report; he wanted a more personal view). Eventually Kane stopped talking and got down to work.

After 20 mins, Kane got bored of sitting at a panel looking at the readouts and checking them to 4 decimal accuracy. He took the automatic computer-controlled orbital program offline and took manual control of the Galaxy. No-one even seemed to notice, which made Kane feel even better. He knew that this was one of Coe's last shifts before he beamed down with the away team. Kane wanted to go with the away team, but was still settling in. Maybe next time...

-------
Lieutenant Kane
(Julian King - king@fl.net.au)
Helmsman, U.S.S. Galaxy.

"Problems In Paradise"
USS Galaxy
Lt. Deiran Casey

At 0530 the computer set the alarm off for Deiran to wake up. Deiran shot out of bed and straight into the sonic shower. He was dressed in his jogging shorts and T-shirt, hair combed and ready for a good 3 to 10 mile jog, depending on how good of shape Leslie was in.

Just before he left, he kissed Miran on the cheek as she slept. She didn’t even stir.

*** Arboretum ***

Deiran was five minutes early. He stood at the entrance and waited for Leslie. As he stood there he began to search his heart. He didn’t have any feelings for Leslie, at least not romantically, Leslie was kind of a sister figure now, in fact if Leslie had blonde hair she’d be Alexa.

No his heart belonged completely to Miran and always would. Leslie was a beautiful woman, as was Jurelle and most of the other females on the ship that Deiran encountered on a daily basis. Deiran needed to be active and Miran was really tired do to her pregnancy. Which met that Deiran would either spend a lot of time alone in their quarters or he could be out doing things.

If it were possible he’d have Miran come with him to jog with Leslie. Miran could always invite Ronni, K’arta or even Troy could come and it could be a foursome for racquetball. But, Miran was 3 months pregnant and Deiran wasn’t about to have Miran do anything that would jeopardize the baby.

Deiran of course being male, never considered talking to Miran and explaining his feelings to her. Deiran was completely oblivious to what Miran was feeling. It wasn’t that Deiran was neglecting Miran, he would give or do anything for her, he just didn’t consider that Miran didn’t always want to rest or stay in their quarters laying down. She was pregnant, not stuck in cement.

Deiran did leave a message for Miran before he left:

Dear Miran,

I’ve gone jogging, I should be back by 0700 hours. I have a surprise for you when you wake up. I love you with all my heart.

Deiran

Leslie entered the Arboretum. She saw Deiran and smiled. "Still early, I see. You haven’t changed that much Deiran. Are you going to be early all the time?" Leslie asked, smiling and flirting.

"Hey, this is Deiran your talking to. How many times did you beat me to the Garden at the Academy?" Casey paused, but not long enough for an answer. "Never!!" Deiran laughed.

"Okay, it takes me longer to get ready," was all Leslie had to say in her defense.

"How long do you wanna run this morning?" Deiran asked.

"Five miles sounds good."

They started jogging. There was a nice jogging track that spanned the arboretum.

"How is Miran doing?" Leslie asked.

"She’s fine, still asleep, she’ll probably be waking up in about 20 minutes. I left a message for her. I have a surprise for her this morning."

"What’s that?" Leslie asked curiously.

"I’m going to cook her a non-replicated meal. An authentic Bajoran breakfast, her favorite things. I’m not sure what they’re called but she loves them." Deiran wasn’t an authority on Bajoran culture, just Bajoran women.

"That sounds very romantic and sweet. You haven’t changed at all. You did those things for me," Leslie responded.

"Hey, I enjoy treating women well. But, I like doing special things for Miran. She is a very special woman," Deiran said. Leslie could see in his eyes and on his face how much he loved Miran, she was his passion.

"Have you found anyone Leslie? Dating or anything?" Deiran asked, practically forcing her to reply.

"No, I just transferred here," she said, rolling her eyes at Deiran.

"Your a gorgeous woman, I know several men who would love to take you out to dinner," Deiran smiled.

"Oh really? You’re such a flatterer, stop being so charming," Leslie loved joking with Deiran about his supposed charm. Charm was something most famous Captains had in abundance. Kirk was rumored to be charming, some thought Picard was charming. The ladies seemed to love charming, dashing captains. "I’m serious Leslie. You know, you and Troy would be perfect together. Do you know him? Have you seen him?" Deiran asked.

"I think so. Is he the Chief Tac Officer?" Leslie asked.

"Yea, that’s him. He’s a good friend of mine. Only problem is he’s kind of a rogue. The kind of man who doesn’t want to settle down. The eternal bachelor type. You may not be perfect for him after all, come to think of it," Deiran laughed.

"No, he doesn’t sound like he’d be good for me. Anyone else?" Leslie asked, laughing.

"Well, let’s see there’s Greer Erikson, Hunter McKenzie. Actually you know there’s not a guy on board, that I know of who hasn’t talked about you. Just take your pick," Deiran was serious.

"Puh-leeze Deiran. Stop it!" Leslie pushed Deiran as they ran. He almost ran into a Eucalyptus tree that was planted in a huge pot.

"No, a lot of the guys have noticed you. It’s just few have had the guts to ask you out on a date. I think it’s intimidation."

"Intimidated by what?" Leslie asked.

Deiran stopped running. He turned to her, drew a square in the air around Leslie’s face and then pointed at her. Then he started running again, with Leslie following behind him trying to catch up.

"Really, they think that about me?" Leslie asked.

"Leslie, just look in a mirror. A guy would have to be crazy not to want to be with you."

"You didn’t."

Deiran had nothing to say to that. It was quiet for a long time after that.

"Deiran I’m not mad at you for what happened between us. You were right, long distance relationships don’t work. It would’ve ended between us after you graduated. I don’t know why I said that."

"You know this is our fifth mile. I have to get home and fix Miran’s breakfast. Take care, see you tomorrow morning."

*** 0730 hours, Casey Quarters ***

"Honey that was delicious! You didn’t tell me you could cook Bajoran food," Miran said, wiping her mouth with her napkin.

"This was my first try at it, you liked it?" Deiran asked.

"Yes it was great, how long did it take you to get the ingredients?" She asked.

"About a week once I ordered them. Altogether it took about three weeks of planning."

"That long?" Miran smiled at her love. He would do anything for her. She wanted to talk to him about not being around much lately, but she didn’t think it was the right time he just cooked her a wonderful breakfast. The last thing she wanted to do was argue.

"We’re going to be late for Alpha shift, shall we go?" Deiran pulled the chair out for his wife and escorted her to the nearest turbolift.

*** 1200 hours, Captain’s ready room ***

"Hello Lieutenant. I wanted to let you know that Counselor Salshyar has requested you visit her for the next 45 minutes in her quarters. She knew you wouldn’t come on your own accord for your scheduled appointment and so asked me to make it an order." The Captain smiled, Deiran was an obstinate young man when it came to medical issues. Price liked that about his Ops Officer.

"Aye sir, should I go now?"

"Yes Deiran, you can report back to your station at 1300 hours," the Captain paused, "dismissed Lieutenant."

Deiran exited the Captain’s ready room and blew a kiss at Miran. And then he disappeared into the turbolift.

*** Counselor Salshyar’s Office ***

Deiran entered the Office. He was staring at Dev like fire was coming out of his eyes.

"You tricked me Counselor. Setting an appointment for Sunday and then having the Captain order me here, that was underhanded and manipulative!" Deiran was angry.

"Yes it was. I knew you’d never come here on your own. Starfleet Medical has a huge file on you and your never-ending mission to escape Psychologists and Doctors. Well, it didn’t work this time did it?" Dev asked, a wide grin on her face.

"I’m not going to talk about my feelings Dev. I won’t!" Deiran was quite determined to keep his feelings buried. "Deiran, I’m just trying to help you. It’s not healthy, mentally, to keep your feelings bottled up inside like this. Just as you do everyday in doing your job, I’m doing my job by trying to get your mind and emotions healthy and stable."

"There’s nothing wrong Dev. I’m fine, as I keep telling you. I’m not keeping my feelings bottled up, because there’s nothing to bottle up."

"Sure Deiran. You can’t lie to me, I’m reading your thoughts now. You’re terrified of something. What is that?" Dev asked, knowing what it was, but she knew the only way to help Deiran was to get him to admit it.

Deiran just fidgeted in his seat. Changed his posture several times and kept doing this for a few minutes.

"Dev, I’m not saying anything! I’m fine!!!!" Deiran wasn’t yelling, but he was raising his voice.

"And that’s why you are nervous and can’t sit still. When it comes to medicine or dealing with your emotions, your a child Deiran, why is that?" Dev was getting right to the point.

"Dev, I’m a mature man. I’ve had a tough life, learned about life as I watched people’s limbs fall off their bodies, I watched a child about the age I was disintegrate before my eyes. I was terrified, as any child would be. I dealt with it my own way."

"Yes, you kept your feelings to yourself. I looked up the records of a Counselor Ferona stationed on the USS Glory when your father was Captain. He was never able to get you to speak to him. You sat in the chair and said nothing. No tears, no words. He tried everything. You still haven’t dealt with that ordeal." Dev felt sorry for Deiran, her empathic heart wanting to help Deiran heal. This was why he kept his feelings inside him, Dev knew that much. She had no idea how to help him heal. So many Counselors and doctors tried, but to no avail.

"Dev, I appreciate the gesture of trying to help me. But, I’m fine."

"Tell that to Miran!" Dev had to use this, there was no other way.

"What do you mean?" Deiran asked, sitting up in his chair, straightening his uniform. He was now very interested and alert in what Dev was about to say.

"I found her sitting in Ten Forward last night, she was crying. I asked her what was wrong and she said it was you. She didn’t tell me anything else. She just cried."

"Why, what have I done? I cooked her breakfast this morning. On a whim I took her for a carriage ride in the park underneath a sky of stars. It was very romantic. She said she enjoyed herself. She’s told me nothing, has said nothing to me!" "She’s concerned about your relationship I believe," Dev let the words sink into Deiran.

"Why Dev? What have I done but love her and take care of her?" Deiran never cried, ever! He was a rock, stable and strong or at least he made it appear so. His father showed him as a child that a Captain never shows his true emotions to the crew, a Captain had to remain strong and stable for the crew’s morale no matter how bleak circumstances seemed to be. But, Deiran’s hurt was plain to see on his face. He could never hide his feelings when Miran was involved, his love for her was overwhelming.

"That’s what I want to know. Miran couldn’t talk about it last night," Dev said, "I can see you love her dearly Deiran. But something is wrong."

Deiran sat in the chair, completely silent. He didn’t want to lose his only love, his only reason for being. Miran was everything to him, absolutely everything.

Dev noticed that Deiran kept surpressing his thoughts about the baby. He was thinking of Miran, but not the baby.

"It’s 1245 hours, Dev, our time is up. It’s been real, as they used to say," Deiran got up and walked out.

The door shut. Dev sat there in her chair in disbelief. It took 45 minutes to get to the surface of the problem. How was she going to get Deiran to face his emotions and deal with his fears?

"Deiran, I’m going to help you whether you want it or not!" Dev said out loud to no one.

One thing that seemed to get to Deiran’s heart was Miran. Dev had seen how he reacted when she told him about what Miran said and about her crying. Dev thought he was going to fall to his face and weep. Of course Deiran would never do that in front of anyone, but she could sense the pain inside him when he heard about Dev’s encounter with Miran. Miran seemed to be the answer to getting Deiran to face his emotions. Dev would have to go to Miran, if she was going to help Deiran face his fears.

"All Work, No Play"
Lt.Jg. Mercury Chief Of Engineering

"Good morning Melissa, anything to report." David just entered main Engineering about twenty-five minutes before his shift started. Since he was now Chief Engineer, it was now his jo to check-up on the rest of the shifts from time to time.

"Not much to report, David, Ensign Scott is in the Main Shuttle Bay assisting Ensign Heart with inventory. Apparently she is still back-up from the new deliver when we last docked. And Mr. Crandle is working in Transporter room #3, one of the pads has been acting up." Melissa was visible tired, she still is not used to the change in shift time.

"Things are going to start getting hectic down in Engineering soon I can feel it, I was hoping that you and Chiron could meet with me, just so that we are on the same page. But Chiron is understandably busy right now. But the offer still stands for us.'

"I think that's a good idea, how about we discuss the matters arising over dinner. I will make one of my personal favorites." Melissa had that smile on, that smile that says you don't know what you are in for.

"Sounds good, I will see you later then." Melissa thanks.

"You are welcome, bye David"

After Melissa left, David walked around Engineering to just get a feel for his staff. It was funny to even listen to himself. "His Staff". David still had twenty minutes before his shift started so he decided to go an check-up on Ensign Scott and Heart.

***********************Main Shuttle Bay***********************

"Sir, I was just coming to see you, we have a little mystery on our hands." Ensign Heart walked over to David with a PADD in hand.

"Go ahead, Ensign I am listening"

"Well sir, Ensign Scott and I just finished up with the inventory, nothing major just a lot of equipment and medical supplies. When we noticed these three container laying next to one of the shuttles."

"So, I am not following."

"Sir, we check the inventory list three times these container are not suppose to be here. Even more baffling is that I scan the containers code to try and locate its origin and to my understanding they didn't arrive with the rest of the equipment."

"So, Ensign what you are telling me is that we have three extra containers of equipment and we don't know what there are or where they came from. Here is what we are going to do. I want you and Ensign Scott to try and scan the interior of the container and try and find out what is inside. When Ensign Wadell arrives for duty in Main Engineering I will send him up here to assist you in this little mystery. More importantly I want the two of you to relax, it is probaly nothing more then a misplaced or mislabled container. None the less you did the right thing by reporting it to me first before doing anything. Good work both of you."

David left the shuttle bay and headed back to Main Engineering. David had a little smile on his face. He could remember a time not very long ago that he could get that excited over a little mystery like that. It was nice to see that his staff so determined.

Dan Josephs

"Standard orbit around Dronegar"
by Captain Robert Edward Lee Price

The Galaxy easily dropped out of Warp as it approached the Dronegar-Rhomboid sector, entering the seven planet system on impulse power. When the ship was within minutes of establishing a standard orbit around the fourth planet, Dronegar, a hail was received.

"Captain." Lieutenant Blair called out from the tactical station, "I am receiving a transmission from the planet sir. It is Yumeijin, the Speaker of Dronegar. She wishes to talk with you Captain."

Lee turned and glanced back at his Chief tactical officer. "On screen Lieutenant." He said, tugging at his duty jacket.

An image of a striking reptilian woman, that resembled the dragons of Terran lore, appeared on the view screen. The bridge crew looked at the Dronegarian. For many of them, it was the first time they had ever seen a member of this humanoid race. Yumeijin was covered in multicolor scales of green, purple, and black, which tended to shift softly into each other, glistening ever so slightly as she moved in the light.

"I am Yumeijin. I am the Speaker of Dronegar. To whom do I address?" Her voice was somewhat rougher than one would imagine judging by her beauty, but her tone seemed friendly enough. Captain Price hypothesized that it was simply how all Dronegarians sounded.

"Greeting Speaker Yumeijin. I am Captain Lee Price of the Federation Starship Galaxy. We have been sent by the United Federation of Planets to help Dronegar and Rhomboid..."

Captain Price was cut off abruptly by the Speaker of Dronegar as she raised her hand. "I know why you are here Captain. It was the Dronegar that requested the Federation mediators." Yume was direct. By human standards, one might call her rude, however Captain Price knew that the Dronegar have different ways. "Are you prepared to bring your mediators down so we may begin Captain Price?"

Lee nodded. "Yes Speaker Yumeijin. This is Ambassador Lorn. You may remember him from his studies of your world's religious practices a few years ago. The Ambassador will be leading the negotiations between Dronegar and Rhomboid."

Yume gave a slight nod, a glimmer of recognition in her reptilian like eyes. "Lorn. You look well. So the religious student is now an Ambassador for peace."

Lorn bowed slightly out of respect. His hands were still safely stowed inside the baggy sleeves of his white robes. "Thank you Speaker Yume. I am well. And I have many talents."

Returning her gaze to Captain Price, Yumeijin asked, "When can we expect the Ambassador's arrival Captain Price?"

"We will be in orbit of your planet in a few minutes. Ambassador Lorn and the rest of the Federation negotiation team will be ready to beam down within ten minutes Speaker Yumeijin." Lee explained.

"We will be waiting." Yumeijin said roughly before closing the channel.

Lee glanced over to Ambassador Lorn, "Pretty no-nonsense 'ay 'mate?"

"It is the Dronegar way Captain. I assure you, the Speaker was not trying to be rude. Had she been, you would of know it..." Lorn explained.

"I'll keep that in mind 'mate." Lee nodded. "You and mister J'naii had better get to the transporter room. Commander Coe and the rest of the away team are probably assembling there right now."

"We shall go at once Captain. Thank you for providing the safe and speedy transport here to Dronegar." Lorn bowed as he and J'naii prepared to leave the bridge.

"No worries 'mate. I hope your negotiations go well with the Rhomboid. That will make the whole trip worth the effort." Captain Price commented.

Lorn smiled slightly. "I will try my best not to disappoint you Captain. Be well."

"G'day Ambassador. Mister J'naii." Lee watched as the Ambassador and his Exaltii body guard left the bridge. The sounds of Lieutenant Casey-Ti punching in new commands on her console caught his attention as he turned to see what was happening.

On the main view screen, the green planet of Dronegar began to fill the view port as the Galaxy assumed a standard orbit around the planet.

"Standard orbit established Captain." Miran explained as she sensed the Captain standing near her station.

"Excellent work Lieutenant. Now we sit and wait to see if Ambassador Lorn and Commander Coe can successfully negotiate a peaceful ending to this centuries long conflict."

"Yes sir. At least the Dronegar asked for a Federation mediator. That has to be a good sign that they are ready for peace." Miran commented.

"Aye, it is. However from what the Ambassador has informed us, Dronegar only requested these talks because they have begun to loose in this conflict... that is not always the best reason for coming to the negotiations table. It really depends on the Rhomboid."

Lee glanced over at the Science station where he noticed Lieutenant Mitchell puzzling over some readings.

"Excuse me Lieutenant." Lee said as he touched Ti's shoulder gently, before walking over to Science station one.

The Bajoran Chief Science officer was double checking some sensor readings and noticed the Captain approaching. As he looked at him.

"Is there a problem Lieutenant?" Captain Price asked in a friendly but curious tone.

"I'm trying to determine that now Captain. Sensors are detecting a lot of Ionized radiation in this system. Particularly between the fourth and fifth planets. I am running a level 4 diagnostics on the sensors now, but they appear to be functioning properly."

Lee placed his hand on the back of Mitchell's chair and leaned forward over his shoulder, glancing at the readings. "Most unusual. The levels don't appear to be very high. They shouldn't pose any threat to the Ship 'mate."

"I realize that Captain, but I just am not familiar with this sort of radiation. I'm trying to figure out how it could of gotten there, or what caused it." Mitchell explained.

Behind them both, Lieutenant Casey-Ti began to giggle slightly. She tried to cover her mouth so no one would hear, but it was too late. Both Lieutenant Mitchell and Captain Price turned and looked back at Miran.

"You wish to add something Lieutenant?" Captain Price asked.

Straightening up in her chair, as if coming to attention, Miran smiled. "Yes sir. Just a hypothesis sir."

"Go ahead Lieutenant," Mitchell beckoned, "I would be interested in hearing whatever you have to say."

"The Dronegar and Rhomboid technology is far below our Federation standards gentlemen. I believe they are still using nuclear reactions to propel their space craft." Miran explained.

James face lit up. "Of course, that would explain these readings!" he said excitedly. "No wonder I did not recognize these readings. Nuclear propulsion has not been used by the Federation for hundreds of years."

"There you go 'mate. Mystery solved. Rhomboid is the fifth planet, so this 'radiation belt' that you are reading was probably formed by the interplanetary traffic between these two worlds."

"Yes sir. And you are right, the levels are very low. They pose no risk to the Galaxy."

Lee smiled now that that was settled. Returning to his command chair, Lieutenant Blair informed him that the away team was ready to beam down.

"Do it 'mate." Lee said as he sat into his chair and glanced at Dronegar below them. "Send them down to negotiate for peace."

"Aye Captain." Troy said as he signaled the transporter room the approval to beam down to the surface.

"The Cover-up pt. 2"
By Lt. (jg) Thomas

Chris couldn't believe that his experiment worked, thought he had little doubt, the biggest concern was pulling it off and not getting caught. Which he had done successfully, now he had to clear some additional concerns.

Personal log, I have managed to pull the experiment as planned, with only a few minor problems, easily corrected. I now face the biggest hurdle and that is how to explain this to the Chief of Security, or not. I jumped into this little idea with both feet, but I failed to look far enough ahead and figure out what to do once the idea failed or succeeded. So much for being smart enough to think ahead, I out smarted myself. I wonder if Einstein or Plato ever outsmarted themselves?

A question that no one probably ever thought to ask them or other genius's of their time. I wish sometimes that I'd be smart enough to think some of my actions though more thoroughly.

[end log]

'Computer please record the following message.'

"To Lt. Morris, I wanted to apologize for my rudeness the other night when inquired about the diagnostics. I was running a level 1 diagnostics and having to perform some complex calculations. I wasn't trying to be rude, I just needed to be focused on the task at hand.

Allow to make it up to you, how about lunch tomorrow in 10-forward, I'll bring the information from the diagnostics and tell you about what showed up in the scans."

'Computer send message to Lt. Morris'

Chris sat back and looked around his quarters, they seemed so huge and so empty without Colby running around the room. He wonder how Colby was doing, and considered the consequences of his actions. Chris sat down and did some work on an idea that he thought Colby might enjoy.

** A couple of hours later **

This was it he had made his mind up about what he had done, and decided that Lt. Commander Joerg Sterner should know. He had also worked on a program that would prevent such a incident from occurring again, unless someone knew what they were doing.

'Computer record the following message'

"To Lt. Commander Sterner, I need to talk with you at your earliest convenience. I figure that you'll probably be going on the away mission, as all good security chief's would. I feel that I what I need to talk with about security should be heard by you only.

And no I haven't contacted Lt. Casey about this, as one it doesn't pertain to ops specifically, but it does to security."

'Computer send message to Lt. Commander Sterner.'

Chris wasn't to worried about the issue, as he was the only who knew how to do what he had done. Though it wasn't something that could be done in a matter of minutes. Now the only question was what would the chief think of his little undercover work. Chris sat for a long time staring at the wall wondering.

** Sometime later

Chris awoke from his daze, a little confused about what had happened, and how much time had passed. He checked with the computer to see what time it was and once satisfied rose from his chair and head off to see Colby as his school time was over for the day.

** Outside Dev's quarter's **

Chris pressed the buzzed and waited to see if Colby was there on not, though he wasn't sure. Chris spent sometime outside waiting before deciding he wasn't going to get an answer. He then set of for the ship's class room hoping to catch the teacher before she left. Luckily she was still there grading papers or something to that effect.

"Mrs. Trenton?"

"Yes?" She said looking up to see Lt. (jg) Thomas standing in front of her desk.

"I was wondering if you could see that Colby Torwyn gets this tomorrow." Chris said placing the chip on the desk. "It contains information from Betazed, I have managed to reconstruct most of the planet to holodeck format. He is of course welcome to share the program with the other students if he wants to do so." Chris finished his sentence.

"I'll see that he gets it, any particular reason why you brought here?"

"Only that he wasn't home, and that I have some other things to do before my shift starts."

"Ok."

** Holodeck 4 **

Chris decided that he should stop by the holodeck and check in on Data and Dr. Sonng, who he hadn't spent time with in a while.

"Sorry I haven't been around lately just had to clear up some problems." Chris said as the door shut behind him. The place looked the same, he had deactivated the program while he caught up on the information.

"How is everything now?" inquired Noonian.

"Getting back on track, but I need your help now." Chris said as he sat down and activated a program that he had written to improve security against the stunt he'd pulled off earlier.

"The program is designed to detected and deactivate any holographing program's not encoded and transmitting the proper signal, the problem is who to ensure the proper code's. But more importantly I want to verify that it will work and what better place than the holodeck.

Chris and his holographic representation spent the next two hours working the bugs out of the program to ensure that it was fully ready. They also spent the time updating the software packing on the new AHEv1.3 model and providing it with more human interaction capability than the previous models. Something he had noted from the captain's mentioning i