"Focus"
by Lt.jg Leslie Wilson
Counselor,USS Galaxy
Leslie blinked her eyes, trying to get moisture back into them. It was a great effort on her part to just stand. Cat had been right, she would need to stay in sickbay for a few days, her duties could wait. She couldn't serve a crew, if she couldn't take care of herself.
Holding onto a bio-bed for support, Leslie made her way over to another patient, an ensign. Leslie tried to smile, and it seemed to be enough for the ensign. "Am I going to be alirght?" she asked, clearly out of breath.
Leslie smiled warmly. "Yes ensign, I will make sure of it."
"Good."
Leslie moved away, going to patient after patient, trying to comfort them. They were confused, not in a real state of danger, it wasn't life and death, but some were still injured from the battle to retake Deep Space Nine. That had to be hard.
She had been in this very room during the battle of DS9, doing exactly the same thing she was doing now, trying to comfort people in thier time of need.
An hour later, she layed back down on her own bed. She was tired. The walking around the room that she had done, that had completly worn her out. She couldn't imagine herself jogging any time soon.
She closed her eyes, clearing her mind. Her parents had taught her this. Learn to foucs, they had said, and you will be at peace. She had taken the advice of her parents well, she could indeed, foucs, very well.
Her mind was clear, an ocean of black. Now she was at peace. Then the ocean of black rippled, like a stone being cast into a lake. She gathered her stray thoughts, refoucsed them, sending them away.
It wasn't easy. Half the time she wanted to give up, but she didn't. She doubled her effort, a strain on her part. But then she was in a state of almost perfect peace. Then, and only then, did she fall asleep.
By: MajorJBX@webtv.net (Julius Banzon)
Julius said nothing for a moment,then spoke. "Okay,ma'am,I mean,Nilani",he said. "So,have you seen sickbay yet?",Nilani asked. "Oh,yeah,been there a few times,twice,I think",Julius said. Julius remembered Nilani. He was on the sidewalk in Bajor besides his house. He saw his sister talking with Nilani,and he saw her in one of the Bajoran ceremonies. He forgot which one. "Well",Nilani said"nice seeing you". "yeah",Julius said. The shook hands and Julius left. Nilani hadn't seen Julius for a long time,haven't seen Bajor for a long time either. She sat down and closed her eyes,and remembered Bajor,she saw her house,and herself. Then she opened her eyes and went to see sickbay and her patients.
Julius Banzon
(Dr. Banzon Julius)
By: "Katrina"
Jurelle's consciousness was thinking... So this is death, dark, quiet, nothingness. Her eyes opened, if only by reflex. But no, this can't be death. Jurelle was in her quarters, in her bed, staring at her ceiling. She was confused. Her last memories had been of dying. Had it only been a dream? She sat up, brow furrowed in concentration. But it had been so real, the despair and horror were still just there, a part of her thoughts, the adrenalin still pumping through her veins. How can she be here, in her bed, like nothing significant had happened?
She stood. Her body was fine, trembling, as if in shock, but physically fine. She looked about her, everything was normal, the Galaxy felt normal. Sounds, atmosphere, it felt so normal. But she didn't feel normal. She dressed in her duty uniform, trying to feel normal and, still aware she didn't really have any idea of the time, or day, walked out into the coridor.
Okay, she smiled smugly to herself, this isn't normal, maybe I'm not crazy after all. There were a few people milling around aimlessly, looking pretty much like she felt, confused, shocked and stunned. Well, she thought, there is only one thing for it... She walked off in the direction of sick-bay, feeling a little unsteady on her feet, toward the only place she felt truly comfortable.
She walked into sickbay, feeling much better. The shock she had been experiencing at being dead had worn off, or at least been banished for the time being. She had worked out, from questioning the computer and those around her that now was three days ago, three days before the argonii star went supernova and killed them all. And yes, it seemed they had died, or at least, most people she had talked to had similar memories to her own. She shook her head and tried not to think about it, of dying, her last thoughts and feelings. To do so made her feel less real, less in control, less sane. And from the look of the wild and haggard faces around her, she wasn't the only one.
Sickbay was a saviour to her soul, the helping of others always made her feel far more herself. It was obvious the other doctors felt the same and they were all soon busy with the comforting task of providing health care to the Galaxy's crew.
Gathering the doctors that were present around her, Jurelle announced. "Listen up people. Okay, so, you all know how you feel, we can expect everyone else to be feeling the same. We can expect confusion, shock, minor collisions with bulkheads and so on. Do your best, make a note of who you think needs more than just physical help and collaborate with the councillors. I'll let you know when we find out more about our situation. Okay, go for it guys."
*****
"So I'm not dead then?"
"No ensign you are not." Jurelle replied, slightly exasperated at the fact that people were having trouble believing they were not dead, despite the obvious presence of life.
"But I remember being killed? The shockwave hit the Galaxy and I remember pain, and then nothing, then I woke up in the science lab." The ensign was quite intent on proving he had died, and was quite possibly still dead and unable to return to duty.
"Ensign," Jurelle sighed, "my preliminary tests show you are in perfect health. I'm aware you have memories of dying, as have most of the people on this ship, myself included, but it appears this hasn't effected your present state of health in any way. The counsillor is happy that you are not adversely effected by the situation and you are free to return to your shift. You may of course make an appointment to have a more thorough physical at a later date." The ensign gave her a dirty look but stepped down from the bio-bed and reluctantly left sickbay. Jurelle was glad the mans attitude was not that of the majority of the crew and Jurelle was pleased they had all fared so well. Jurelle went on to the next patient feeling proud that the crew she was a part of had coped so well in such a difficult situation.
Jurelle Tash, CMO, USS Galaxy
By: "Ens O'Hare"
"The Search"
A flash and Jon looked up from his Science lab station where it appeared that he was on duty. Jon shook his head and tried to make sense of what just occurred. One minute he is in one of the closets of Sickbay getting ready to met his death and the next he is at his Science lab station running over the computer upgrade calculations. Did Jon have a black out or something? He makes a mental note to be checked by one of the Doc's in sickbay. Then the memory of what he experienced in that closet came to him.............
Jon's thoughts then shifted to his roomate Sirkahn and he strained to send a mental thought to him "It was fun good friend" just then Jon encountered a voice that he has never heard before and it said "Jon you must look beyond to the beyond" Jon didn't know what to expect and didn't know what this pharse meant or who was sending the message. Suddendly Jon felt the ship shake violently and then a sudden extreme heat penatrated his body he heard the same voice say "She's alive" and Jon's life ceased.
Jon didn't know who this voice was talking about. "She's Alive!" who's alive Jon asked himself. Just then the voice came to him again.
"Don't give up Jon, she's alive you just need to search for her"
Jon sat back into his chair and wondered who was sending him these mental messages. He tried replying with his own mental message but there was no answer. "Damn" Jon said out loud a cadet working on the Upgrade project with him quickly turned around and said "Is there a problem Sir?" Jon quickly turned toward the cadet and replied "No cadet I apologize for my outburst!" the cadet turned back to his work. Jon tried to concentrate on his task at hand, and tried to forget about his mental receptions and thought after his shift was over, he would meet backup with his good friend and roomate Sirkahn to help with this little problem. Jon looked at the PADD in his hand at what Ltjg Samara had submitted to him for preliminary checks prior to conducting the computer upgrade, "Hmmmmmmm" he said while stroking his chin "She is very intuative to computers" Jon said with a hint of admiration. "She is the first person that I have worked with that has realized the importance of checking all computer memory cores for old triple encryptic algorythims prior to taking the Main Memory Core offline for upgrades." Jon smiled sat back in his chair and thought "I would have never expected such insight from a Klingon much less an Engineer" Jon thinks back to his accident in the Computer Core, when K'Eytyanna saved his life, and for the first time in his life Jon harden heart toward Klingons melted somewhat. A great admiration for Ltjg K'Eytyanna Samara started to form in Jon's heart. Getting back to work Jon finished going through the last of the calculations and turned to the Cadet on duty with him and said "Cadet Myerson" the Cadet promptly jumped out of his seat and stood at attention and replied "Yes Sir!!" Jon grin remember how enthustiastic he was when he was a Cadet "Cadet Myerson, I have almost completed my analysis on the Computer Upgrade, I would like you to run a level 3 diagnostic on the Main Computer Core, once you have finished send me the results so I can finsih up my analysis and submit my Upgrade plan to the command, Also I have a few errands to run I am leaving the Science Lab in your capable hands, I will be back shortly, don't let me down Cadet!" the Cadet smiled and acknowledge with a heartly "Aye Sir!" and turned to start his diagnostic. Jon chuckled to himself and walked out of Science Lab 1. Jon was still concerned about how he was dead one minute and alive in the Science Lab the next. so he decided to go to Sickbay to see if anything was wrong with him. As Jon walked the passageways he notice that everyone that he passed had that same familar look of "What the Hell just happend to me" look that he had. Upons entering Sickbay he notice that it was packed, they even had several of the EMH's online to assists, one of them walked up and stated "State the nature of your Medical Emergency!" Jon looked at the Hologram and replied "I am not sure, one minute I was in that closet over there getting ready to face the destruction of the ship and the end of my life, then next minute I am in Science Lab 1 conducting calculations on the up coming Computer Upgrade. I believe I am having some delierium or something.??" the EMH replied "Well Ensign, you are not the only one that has experienced this phenomenon, practically the whole ship has, and we are in the process of trying to find out what happended, please sit down over there and we will check your vitals and give you a medical scan to ensure you haven't been seriously effected in any other way!" and with that the EMH walked over to yet another crewmember that had just walked into sickbay "What is the nature of the..........." Jon smirked at the EMH and made a mental note to work on the EMH personality program when he get's a chance, Jon took a seat on one of the biobeds and waiting to be examimed................
Ensign Jon O'Hare
By: Gerry gerry@gj.net
Dazed
Ensign Neg'Puj blinked, she thought she was a view station a second ago, "I must be going crazy." She mumbled in Klingon. She looked around and found that she was in her courters.
She could fell another head ache coming on, a problem of being a Betazoid who had never been trained to use her pysic powers. She rached under her pillow and reached for some pills, they prouble wouldn't let her have them on the ship if they knew. But back home it was the only pain killer she could get for her head aches.
Sudenly she stumbled to the floor, she pushed herself up and saw blackness surronding the corners of her eyes, she blinked and walked, well actually sorta staggered to sickbay.
"What is the nature of your medical emergancy?" The EMH doctor asked.
Suddenly pride got the best of her, 'What are you doing?' She asked herself, 'You were rasied to be of the proud Klingon hertage and you are submitting yourself to such petty nonsence as to coming to sick bay for a dizzyness spell! Shame! What would SoS think!'
The EMH program cocked his head to the side, "Are you alright?" He asked again.
"No, its nothing, I'm fine-" She said before she passed out.
By: "B'Elanna Torres"
K'Eytyanna looked around, finding herself sitting in Ten Forward with a half-finished bowl of gagh in front of her and a metal cup of blood-wine nearby.
"What's going on?? I was working on repairing a plasma conduit and now I am here."
Getting up, she walked to a terminal and brought up her Engineering log to find that three days had just got up and disappeared.
Quickly, she raced out of Ten Forward, heading to her quarters.
*****************
Charging in, she saw D'Akanna squealing and whimpering in fright, charging around the room. He stopped suddenly, sniffed the air and raced over to her as she knelt down.
She smiled as he started licking her face, and she hugged him close to her, whispering softly to him,
"Calm down, D'Akana.. you are safe now. Nothing bad is going to happen to you, I'm here to protect you."
Lt jg K'Eytyanna Samara, USS Galaxy - Engineer/Shuttle Pilot
By: RCL
*** CSO's Office ***
"What do you think?" Jon asked.
"It looks fine to me." Greer said, looking at the PADD that the science officer had handed him earlier. "Does Lieutenant Mercury have any problems with this?"
"No sir, infact he suggested not changing it. It fits in well with some overhauls the engineering department are doing while we're at starbase."
"Wonderful then. If your estimates are correct, the bridge science stations should be able to access and analyze data from the computer core a little quicker."
"I'm confident it will."
"Every little bit helps. I should be able to join you once I've managed to get a few things out of the way." Greer said with a smile. "So how are you getting along with Lieutenant' Samara?"
Jon breathed for a moment. "I think we'll get along just fine sir."
"I'm glad you changed your mind Jon. We're all one big happy family here." Greer smiled, knowing that is wasn't always the case.
Jon proceeded to tell the chief science officer what had happened in the timeline leading up to the destruction of the USS Galaxy by the Argonii supernova. Apparently Lieutenant' Samara's rescue of the science officer changed his mind about not necessarily all Klingons, but at least her.
*** Ten Forward ***
"I heard the most intriguing discussion with Ensign O'Hare this morning, Counselor, he believe's that he retains a memory of being dead." Greer told Counselor Wilson, the pair of them seated near one of the several large windows.
"Several of the crew reported experiencing exactly that." Leslie said. "I spoke with Dr. Tash, she said that she's had people enter
ing Sickbay hoping to work out what has happened."
Greer looked at her. "I'm sure whatever it was, it was most likely the result of something biophysical or some psychochemical reaction."
"Perhaps. Or perhaps they do actually remember the experience of being dead." Leslie said unconvinced by Greer's biological explanation. "What of yourself Lieutenant?"
"All I remember was being on the Bridge, seeing the Argonii star explode, the shockwave . . . " Greer paused for a moment, trying to remember exactly what he remembered, "then someone grabbed my arm . . . and then . . . then I remember sitting at the aft science station a little disorientated like most of the bridge crew."
Leslie just smiled. "So you don't believe in life after death then?"
Greer drank some of his Balso tonic. "It's not that I don't believe in life after death . . . it's just that I've always been a person who needs to see to believe. Anyway, considering the anxiety and stress the crew has been under since the battle at Deep Space Nine, it isn't impossible that it is biologically controlled experience. People have been known to experience events that have never happened. A perfect example is a repressed memories or even the simple inability to distinguish between the conscious and unconscious, reality and a dreamlike state."
"So I guess we'll agree to disagree then?"
"Cheers Counselor." Greer said raising his glass to Leslie.
"I guess so then." she replied, not suprised by the scientist's opinion. "So have you chosen the next play you're going to produce?"
"Ah, actually I nearly forgot to ask you about that. Thank you. Well I still need people for parts. I decided to go with a classic this time . . . Shakespeare's 'The Tempest'. Interested?"
Leslie smiled, "sounds great," the counselor replied enthusiastically.
*** The next morning . . . Bridge ***
Although the most of the crew was on shore leave, Greer remained to the ship to help complete some of the upgrades to the bridge science stations with Johannis O'Hare. Being docked at Starbase 357, with most of the crew on shore leave, it seemed the perfect opportunity to do some overhauling of the department facilities. As he managed the console controls, Ensign O'Hare was busy inside the opened access panel as he reconfigured the console with the mass of isolinear chips littered the immediate region of the aft science consoles.
[Takahashi to Erikson. Sir, the new topographic scanner has arrived.]
"Thank you Ensign. Please take it to Science Lab 11. Erikson out." Greer said, tapping his comm badge.
"Sir, could you pass me isolinear chips 3022, 3025, and 4523." Jon asked, busy at work.
Greer obliged him by handing him the chips he requested. In the corner of his eye, the chief science officer caught the image of Captain Price arriving on the Bridge and heading to his Ready Room. "Excuse me Ensign, I just have to speak to the Captain for a moment."
*** Captain's Ready Room ***
"How are the upgrades going Lieutenant?" the Captain asked, noticing Lieutenant Erikson following him.
"Fine sir. Ensign O'Hare assures me that the aft science stations should be completed before we're ready to leave the starbase." Greer replied. "Actually sir I was here on a more personal note."
"Oh." Lee said.
"I was wondering if you would be interested in joining our production of 'The Tempest'?"
"Thanks 'mate, but I'll have to decline." the Captain replied. "The last production was quite entertaining, but I don't think I'm actually what you'd call actor material. Besides, I still have a lot of reports to review and submit. Perhaps you should ask Commander Sterner."
"I already have and he's quite willing to participate. Besides sir, I think you'd do a convincing Prospero."
Until this moment the Captain had been able to avoid Erikson on the matter of ship theatre productions. He began to realise that it was really only a matter of time before he would have caught up with him. "Shouldn't you be reviewing data from the Argonii supernova about now Lieutenant?" he smiled, trying to divert the Lieutenant's attention.
"It's not due for another three and a half hours sir. Then it will take the telemetry from the probes another quarter of an hour to completely reach us via subspace. Lieutenant Morris and Ensign Sullax have been preparing to receive the data from the class-8 probes we sent. I also hear we're getting a new astrophysicist who would be perfect for the job. I believe Ensign Rodley is his name." Greer said as he backed up towards the Ready Room door, "Well, I'll let you think the matter of 'The Tempest' for a little more before you give me your final answer. Thank you sir."
"No, no, 'mate . . ." Lee responded to the suggestion, unfortunately Lieutenant Erikson had already made his way out of the Ready Room and was unable to hear the commanding officer. Lee just sat leaned back into his chair, letting out a small sigh.
By: Scene23@aol.com
*** 10 Forward ***
While feasting, Endris learned her leave "chit" had been approved. For some reason, Star Fleet insisted on keeping some of the most archaic Navy Terms. This 'odd fact' made the Tellarite happy, or possibly long for a quarter deck watch. While having a refreshing salad, she learned her friend Matthew chose to come along on vacation! After finishing a pint of Guiness, she hoofed it back to her quarters to pack.
*** Gakor's Quarters ***
This was going to be a working vacation, so Gakor packed her tricorder with a research link to the ship's archives. It also tied into the libraries at Memory Beta, which had been her first duty station. Several long dresses went in, but there was no room to take her favorite spices. Fortunately, Bajorian cuisine was as favor full as such alien delicacies like Jambalaya. Since the trip was only for a week, the Tellarite wanted to travel as light as possible.
*** Security Office ***
Lieutenant jg Albrecht was reviewing his notes for the upcoming security conference on DS9. He had already accumulated four PADDs in his duffel, and couldn't make up his mind on which of his Law projects to bring along to fill up time between seminars and 'Round Tables.'
He was glad that he could get away for a while. Ship's routine had been hectic the last few weeks, and growing confusion was the result. It was the only explanation he would accept for the hostility and short-temperedness of his friends. It didn't occur to him that he was the real cause for the friction in his life. Having 'Oinkus' with Gakor in the lounge was one of his few reprieves from the mayhem.
He had already tossed some uniforms into a transport container, leaving his room looking like a Horta had been using the bulkheads for croutons. Matthew had passed a few unpleasant words with his roommate; Resting Hawk continued to annoy the security officer. He was certain that the inconsiderate fellow would allow that infuriating Lt Cavanaugh stay in their quarters again while he was away. He only hoped his bed would not be littered with cracker crumbs this time. Again he vowed to get reassigned new accommodations as soon as possible.
Mulich and Sanchez were also slated to attend the seminar on Alpha Quadrant defense, but they were mulling around The security office as if they had nothing better to do. Which could be the case, given they were already considered on leave. Matthew avoided Sanchez as much as possible these days. Fortunately, he could arrange to take different sessions at the conference under the pretense that they should split up to attend more meetings during the short conference.
*** Shuttle Bay ***
Lt Commander Casey Ti was just about to finish the preflight. Miran was not too happy how the pilot assignments fell.
"Stupid shuttle, I'll destroy you with my bare hands if anything goes wrong," she hissed under her breath, closing an optronic relay panel with an ambivalent thump. To her rear, Angela Dana carefully adjusted the fuel flow regulators, making sure the devices were up to specs. Even though the CO already approved the excursion to Bajor, the General wanted to see his crew off safely.
"Everything looks good, Commander", said the Deltan. "Do you plan to go to Dokur Provence?", Dana asked boisterously. "I hear that is one of the nicest places on your homeworld." The engineer smiled with her polite conversation.
"No, I'm going home." She didn't say any more- she had other things on her mind. She was going to tell Deiran that she was resigning her commission while on this trip. She didn't know how he would handle it and it worried her.
The pair continued to work on the shuttle, and within minutes it was ready to launch. By this time, all the passengers for the journey to Bajor had arrived in the shuttle bay.
*** Space ***
The area surrounding Star Base 357 was surprisingly free of hostile activity, despite its proximity to the Bajoran worm hole. Commander Ti elected to travel slightly slower than top speed, in case the Founder's new reptilian allies had something in store for them. The Dominion's alliance with Cardassia made Miran weary of traps and surprises.
Miran didn't engage at the conversation that was going but focused on her own thoughts. She was scared to tell Deiran, afraid of his reaction. Deep down she knew he would support her because he loved her but it still scared her. All she knew that she hoped he wouldn't be disappointed in her.
She took a quick glance back at her husband. Deiran was quietly playing with Lara. She smiled. Those two were her entire life.
Seven adults and a baby made for a crowded trip. The up side, on the other hand, was that there was no lack of conversation. The six passengers covered topics as diverse as the war with the Dominion, to Federation history, to favorite holo-novels. Gakor distributed small pocket meals she called ‘Ngok- bulbs,’ which were quite tasty—it paid to have a Tellarite on board.
"’Snarling mines!’ that's what they used to call them," debated Dana.
Albrecht's upbringing on Tellar made him always ready for a good verbal joust. "No, they were called Bkios Fly Traps!", demanded the human. "Snarling mines were low-yield nuclear devices with proximity fuses."
"If we deployed the old-type mines along this vector, it might destroy the Cardassian ships that patrol that corridor."
"That type of mine field has been obsolete for years", contributed Sanchez. "The Cardassians are not likely to fall for that ruse."
"Well, at least they aren't here", Gakor said with a yawn. Conversation continued in much the same manner, and before they knew it, the Yosemite reached the docking ports of DS9.
Chris entered his quarters after a long day of running some test on the ships primary systems. He couldn't believe that they'd had to pull a 12 hour shift to test all the ships primary functions, but Starfleet was worried about renewed offensive by Cardassian and Dominion forces. Though when one considers what havoc this war has caused, one apicate the chance to just work a normal duty shift or ever a longer shift.
Aside for the long shift everything else was going fairly well, expect that he had learned the Dev's was leaving the ship. This was a shock to Chris, and it would take time for him to move on, but their relationship hadn't been on the best of terms presently. This was probably for the best, but still he cared deeply for her and would miss her. The one question that still remained was what would happen to Colby.
Chris had already decided that if he was granted custody of Colby once more, that he would put his career on hold and spend time with Colby. There were many things that he regretted in his life, the loss of his wife was among the greatest. The second thing he regretted most was missing the chance to be a farther to Colby and for that he was truly sorry. No amount of words could change what had happened between them, the only thing that might was time. He would make every effort to determine what he could do to restore some sort of relationship between them. As no word about Colby's status had been given.
He had also learned to his surprise that Lt. Commander Ti Miran Casey was taking an even longer vacation away from her duties than was originally planned. This was going to something that they both would have to deal with, that is Lt. Commander Derian Casey and his wife Ti. It wasn't something that he and his wife had to deal with, unfortunately.
There were also a number other changes that had occurred or would be taking place in the next several weeks. Some of which would included the shuffling of personal to fill voids left by recent departures.
By: "Ens O'Hare"
"Kinship"
As Jon sat in sickbay waiting for someone to see him. He notice another person aimiously wondering into sickbay with that I don't know what's happening look. Jon got a funny feeling in his body like the hand of death had smacked him. Jon sudenly heard that strange voice again "She's Alive" Jon again shakes his head to try and clear the voice, but it's so vivid. "She's Alive" Jon just couldn't shake that voice. The women that had walked in seem to stagger a little while talking to the EMH and she suddenly collapsed. Jon jumped up quickly to help the EMH with the young lady.
They placed her onto the empty biobeds and the EMH started to scan her with a Medical Tricorder. "Hmmmmm" he said with a definate tone of concern in his voice. "What" Jon said out of anticipation of just what the EMH was grunting at! "Her Cyribellum is highly stimulated at present and her Cyribril Cortex is in a constant flux phase, it's as almost she is experiencing some sort of telepathic experience.........
*** In Neg'Puj Mind ***
It felt like a cold hand slapped her right in the face, as if old memory's were bubling up from her mind and blured faces swept past her eyes. 'He's alive.' A voice echoed in her dream.
*** Back in Sickbay ***
Neg'Puj felt a warm light go over her face and batted it away, she open her eyes and saw the EMH program and another man standing over her. She sat up almost knocking the two in the face, she suddenly rembered what happen. She jumped out of the bio bed.
"You shouldn't be up." The doctor warned her.
"That never happen before," she whispered, she looked up at the man and squinted her eyes, "Do I know you?" She smiled at her foolishness, "I'm sorry, but it seems like we have met before."
"I know." He replied looking at her.
"You really should be sitting down." The EMH warned again.
"Huh? Oh, no I'm fine really."
"You justed passed out and you say your fine?" The program replied sarcasticly.
Neg'Puj ingonred him and turned to the other man, "My names Neg'Puj, have we ever met before? You know on a holodeck, down the hall, something like that?" Jon got a little flustered and spoke "Ah no, ah er I don't believe that we have met, I am Ensign Johannis O'Hare, but everyone calls me Jon for short" Jon sticks out his hand to shake this lovely young womans soft and beautiful hand. As the two make contact by the hand shake, Jon suddenly got another feeling like death had slapped him in the face. He just couldn't quite shake the feeling, then a vision of a woman in a preistist robe appeared before him "Young O'Hare, you are not alone in this world, She's alive" then the image had disappeared and Jon was looking into Neg'Puj face and she had a look of "well are you going to answer my question" look about her. Jon looked at her inquizitively then looked toward the EMH they both were looking at Jon as if waiting for an answer.
Neg'Puj smiled and repeated her question, "Its really weird, you seem so familer, its like..." She turned to the EMH program, "PacHa maH ghom..?
"
"Deja Vu." The doctor supplied.
"Yeah," She turned back to Jon, "Deja Vu. I swear its like I meet you before, do you feel the same way?"
"Yeah." Jon replied.
Neg'Puj rubbed her sore temples and shook her head, "You know Ensign O'Hare has Betazoid blood in him too," The EMH program told her, "maybe he could help you with..." Jon looked at the EMH then looked at Neg'Puj and replied "Ah er um ah, I I I don't know if I could" Jon got all flustered his face was turning red. The EMH spoke "Come on Ensign, I know personally that you have studied the Vulcan rituals of mind melding and from what I hear you have mastered it quite well" Jon wasn't quite sure if he could help Neg'Puj or not because of his own termoil going on in his mind at present. "I am sorry, but I don't think that would be wise at this time, and if you would excuse me I have to get back to my duty station" and with that Jon quickly turned and walked out of sickbay. Jon headed toward the bridge where he was to do some preliminary work on the aft science station with Lt Erikson. Jon entered the Turbolift and spoke "Bridge" the turbo lift started whinning toward the Bridge. Moments later Jon stepped out on the Bridge he looked around and saw that Lt Erikson was already there waiting for him, Jon spoke "Sorry I am late Lt Erikson, I was detained in sickbay" Erikson nodded and proceeded over to the aft science station, then Jon saw his good friend and roomate Sirkahn Grump at the Science Station. He quickly stepped up to Sirkahn and whispered "Sirkahn, I need to disperately talk to you in our quarters after our shift is through" Sirkhan eye brow rised hearing the urgency in Jon's voice he nodded in agreement. Then Jon spoke aloud "Ensign Grump, I will be taking the aft Science Station down for computer upgrades" Sirkahn replied "Very Well Ensign O'Hare notify me once the aft Science Station is back online" Jon nodded and went right to work. He went behind the aft science station console and removed the panel, he rolled over on his back and eased himself into the panel. Cadet Ramsey had in fact dropped off the case of Isolinear Chips that was needed so he was ready to rock and roll. Jon started pulling Isolinear Chips right and left while scanning the matrix with his Tricorder. Jon felt comfortable with Lt Erikson at the console controls monitoring them vigoriously, he knew that the Lieutenant was well qualified for this procedure. Jon looked around and relized in his haste he forgot to grab some of those Isolinear chips into the console with him. Jon spoke up "Sir, could you pass me isolinear chips 3022, 3025, and 4523." Jon asked, busy at work. Greer obliged him by handing him the chips he requested. In the corner of his eye he saw Captain Price on the Bridge and heading to his Ready Room. "Excuse me Ensign" Greer said "I just have to speak to the Captain for a moment." Jon replied "Aye Sir, I can handle this" Lt Erikson walked off. Jon continued at his task at hand. Then his mind began to wonder, thinking about the voice the image, then wierd feeling's was getting in Sickbay with Ensign Neg'Puj what did it all mean........
*** Back in Sickbay ****
As soon as Jon rushed out of sickbay Neg'Puj turned to the doctor, "Wow, that was speical." She muttered, she stood there for a moment, her head was still ponding.
"What can I do for you?" The EMH program asked.
Neg'Puj was still thinking about that ensign, "Huh? Oh nothing, I'm going to secruty and check out whats in there." She walked off before he could say anymore.
By: Amanda
Leslie returned to her quarters after being discharged from sickbay. All she could find herself wanting to do was sleep. So thats exactly what she did. A pleasent sleep. Not a sleep plagued by nightmares and ghost images. A peaceful sleep. She embraced it.
****Later****
After a hot shower, Leslie dressed. "Computer messages?" she asked, running a brush through her black hair.
"One new message," it stated.
"Play, audio only."
"Hi 'mate, informing you that you have been promoted to Lieutenant, and the positon of Chief Counselor. Congradulations."
Leslie droped the brush, stunned. What about Dev? she wondered. What had happened to the Chief Counselor. She pondered that as she moved over to the mirror. She looked at herself. "Perfect."
The doors to her quarters hissed open, and she steped out. The Galaxy seemed desserted. Most of the junior officers had taken shore-leave. She wasn't thought, not now, not after having been informed of her new position.
She walked with a brisk stride. It felt good to be out of sickbay. She was starting to get tired of Doctors. She arrived at the turbolit, and steped in.
"Deck 14," she ordered.
The lift hummed to life, and it started its long crawl through the ship. A moment later she steped out onto the deck.
She walked up to the office of the Chief Counselor, her office. It was dark inside. She walked in. "Lights," she commanded.
The lights sprang to life. Except for the couch, the desk, and the computer terminal, the office was empty. All of Dev's possesions had been taken away.
She walked to the desk and sat down. It didn't feel right sitting in the chair. But she would have to get used to it. It was her position now. Then she spotted it. A full gold pip. She picked it up, held it in her hand. Removing the hollow black pip from her collor, she placed the full pip on it, and set the hollow pip down.
"Incoming message," the computer said.
"Play."
Text appeared on the screen. "New counselors," Leslie mumbled. Time I go meet them.
****Transporter Room Four****
The large double doors to transporter room four slid open, and Leslie stepped in. Chief Streb nodded to her. "They are ready Lieutenant," he said, his eyes flashing to her collor.
"Energize," she ordered.
Streb activatied the controls, and the whine of the transporter could be heard, then the framiler shimmering light, then four figures became visible, and then finaly, they were fully solid.
"Damn transporters, I hate them," a Lieutenant on the transporter padd mumbled. Then she saw Leslie and snapped to attention.
Leslie fought back a grin. "At ease Lieutenant before you pull something." Leslie grinned.
The Lieutenant didn't smile back, but did relax her stance. "Lieutenant Amy Green, reporting for duty. These officers are, Lieutenant junior grade Emma Marshall, and Ensign's Garcia and Trenton. Ensign Lance Garcia is still on the Starbase."
"Ensign Garcia, are you related to Ensign Lance Garcia?" Leslie asked. This was odd, having to people with the same last name, in the same department.
Ensign Angelica Garcia stepped forward. "Yes sir, Lance is my adopted brother."
"First Ensign, don't call me sir, Counselor will be fine. Second, its good to have you all aboard. Report to Operations for quarter assignments, then back to me for duty assingments."
"Yes counselor!" the all replyed.
"Dismissed."
The four new officers shuffled out of the transporter room, mumbling amongst each other.
"Tough day," Streb offered.
"You can say that again." Leslie left shaking her head, not sure which one was funnier. Amy Green, or Angelica Garcia. It was a tie she supposed.
****Later****
Chief Counselors Personal Log, Stardate 49802.16:
I have been discharged from sickbay. After returning to my quarters I was informed that I had been promoted to full Lieutenant and given the position of Chief Counselor. After which I greeted new arrivals. I can see that this will be a tough job, and I have added responsiblitys now. But I belive that I am up to the challenge.
This is all a little new to me. I haven't been in space that long, and already I'm a full Lieutenant. A year ago I was just trying to make ensign. My ambition and my dedication to service, have gotten me the job of Chief Counselor, and the rank which I belive I have earned.
It will be hard to adjust without Dev here to help me when I need the help. She was a teacher, and I will deeply miss her. I still have much to do to prepare for my new job. Mostly handing out duty assingments, and preapring my department. This will be hard work, and I am hoping everything will go smoothly. Time will only tell.
Leslie de-activatied her log, and left her quarters. She needed some time off, and a drink.
****Ten Forward****
Leslie sat in Ten-Forward, in the table closest to the viewport. She thought about the past few months. She had come aboard the Galaxy, been in peace talks with two warring races. Had run an engineering station, and now she was here, Chief Counselor.
She smiled, and downed the rest of her drink. It felt good to be in this position, it felt good to be alive. She stretched her arms. It was going to be a real pain trying to get back into her running program. But she would have to.
She set the cup down, and moved away from the table. She was tired again. She checked the time. It was the end of Beta shift, she had been awake for sixteen hours. She was tired. She just wanted to go to her quarters and sleep.
By: Scene23@aol.com
Mulich, Sanchez and Albrecht debarked together from the Yosemite. The trip to Deep Space 9, while not a long one, had been a little cramped, and each of them was eager to stretch his or her legs. The three entered the promenade together, Sanchez looking left, Albrecht looking right, and Mulich looking up at the ceiling far above. The outpost, with its rust-red alloy construction and odd mix of sharp angles and perfect curves, was a dramatic change from the sometimes sterile Federation starship they inhabited most of the time. The officers in their identical uniforms, fresh appearance, and GI duffels over their shoulders stood out there like three sore and swollen thumbs, and ‘Tourist’ may as well have been tattooed upon their foreheads.
Mulich was the first to speak, "Whoa, now this is big! Feels almost like being on a Star Base. Where do you get some food around here?" Mulich had been looking forward to eating an exotic handmade meal since before they left the Galaxy. In fact, he had first mentioned the idea in the meeting with Lt Cmdr Sunder when they had discussed the Security Conference and how the Galaxy’s representatives would participate in it.
"The Conference doesn’t begin until eight hundred hours tomorrow," pointed out Sanchez. "Until then, why don’t we split up and treat ourselves to some of the local flavor?" Her suggestion took Matthew by surprise, since she usually was the first one to say ‘let’s stick together’ when on duty. He looked where she was looking, and spotted a few good-looking young men from another ship on the level below. He suddenly realized why she had wanted rid of her shipmates. He smiled and walked away briskly, glad he didn’t have to make the suggestion himself.
********
Matthew mentally counted the number of different races he had seen pass by him on DS9. So far, he had seen fourteen Federation races, three non-Federations, and at least four races he had never encountered. He was fascinated. While he tried to determine what kind of person was walking around in the antique Starfleet-style environment suit, a voice came at him from behind the bar. "How about some jewelry to take back to your sweetheart? I have some lovely Triskalian rubies I’m willing to take a loss on…"
He turned to see a Ferengi holding a velvet platter with dozens of semi- precious stones arrayed upon it. This Ferengi’s eyes were particularly deep set and shadowed. The small man seemed to be measuring up the Human, pursing his lips thoughtfully. Matthew dismissed the trinkets immediately. His mother had an incredible jewelry collection, collected over generations. His family was very wealthy, and he doubted this salesman had anything that would impress him.
"So, you have discerning taste, Lieutenant. Perhaps you would like to see something a little more sophisticated?" asked the little man. *Could he be psychic?* wondered Matthew. He had never heard of a psychic Ferengi before, but the cunning traders did have a habit of acquiring gizmos with remarkable abilities. He decided to play it safe and practiced a mind-blocking technique he had learned at the Academy. He began by focusing on something in the room… a circle of lights flashed around a dart board across the bar. He concentrated on it, and while continuing the conversation, thought loudly, *blink, blink, blink.*
"Actually, barkeep, I’m not here to shop," he informed the bar’s owner. It didn’t occur to him that not only did the grinning fellow know about the conference, but he also knew about a few other things that might interest the young security officer. And the ostentatiously dressed little man didn’t care. Any opportunity to make a sale. *Blink, blink, blink.*
"You are here for the Security Conference, of course. My name is Quark, and this is my bar. I can offer many more items for sale than just gems…" he informed the redshirt. Matthew’s internal alarms went off at the suggestion of possible contraband. Just as quickly he realized that everything Quark’s bar did was certainly under intense scrutiny, considering the war and the security issues they had come to discuss. *Blink, blink, blink.* The two men playing darts chatted with each other like old friends, squabbling over some variation of cricket rules.
Trotting up behind Quark came a second Ferengi. He spoke with a nasally- congested voice, out of breath, "Brother, come quickly, another Klingon has broken holosuite five!" He seemed agitated, and a little afraid of his brother. Matthew wondered how anyone could seem so weak-willed. He couldn’t imagine wanting that little, nervous guy at his back in a battle. Quark threw his bar towel down in a pique, glared at his little brother contemptuously, and the two headed to the back of the bar.
Seized by a sudden attack of curiosity, the junior grade lieutenant stood and followed the skinnier, nervous Ferengi across the place. At the other end of the bar, past tables occupied by many festive guests, he watched the two little people enter a hall that presumably led to the holosuites. He heard a Klingon voice arguing with the barkeep. Matthew continued into the hallway to see more, nonchalantly continuing down toward the other end. The Klingon and Quark passed him.
Quark said, "Weapons officer Kahrem, it will require days to repair the damage you have caused. You must compensate me better than this!" The large-lobed proprietor shook his fist at the extremely large Klingon warrior without sign of fear. The giant looked at him and grinned.
"Quark, I am tired of your inadequate facilities! Until you improve your holochambers, you will receive no more business from me or my Family." He tossed something else to Quark, and stormed from the bar. Quark turned back and signaled something to his brother, who disappeared into the holosuite’s door. The Galaxy’s security officer followed him in to see what kind of damage the Klingon had caused.
The holosuite looked fine, except for a bashed-in control panel and the carbon-scoring on the yellow grid surrounding that panel. Actual smoke seeped from the electronics behind it. The little Ferengi looked over his shoulder and saw the human. "Hello…who are you?" asked the alien in a none-too- interested and none-too-sophisticated voice.
Matthew swallowed and introduced himself to the Ferengi who had his hands inside the delicate components of the holosuite control system. "I am Lieutenant junior grade Matthew Albrecht of the USS Galaxy. I would like to know what occurred here." He hoped he could pass off his curiosity as professional interest, when in reality he was only interested in seeing what a Klingon could do to break a holosuite. He put out his hand for the Ferengi to take.
"I am Rom, my brother owns this bar," said Rom, removing his hand from the panel to shake hands. As he withdrew his hand the ‘suite doors clanged shut and a holographic landscape materialized around them. Distracted from their handshake, the two men looked around to see where they had been ‘transported’…
to be continued...
Lt jg Matthew Albrecht
By: "Ryak Sullax"
"The Echo"
On his way to the science lab Ryak stopped of and reserved some time in the holo deck for after his shift. Ryak arrived to the science lab right on time. He walked over to a consul and started checking up on the probes. Ryak walked around the science lab making sure that all was going well. After finding that all was fine Ryak returned to his terminal and sat down.
"Computer, send all data from the probes to this station."
The computer sent the data received and Ryak began the task of sorting through it all.
"Computer scan the image on my screen and zoom in on the object near the star."
"Scanning......."
"Computer what is the object?"
"The object is a vessel, Not enough data to elaborate."
"Zoom in another 30%."
"FVADT!! Computer Zoom out 5%."
"Computer were there any federation ships near the star at the time of the explosion?"
"There were no vessels near the star at that time."
"Computer I need more info on the vessel on my screen."
"There is no more data from the probes."
Ryak punched the table as he he started doing a slow zoom in on the image. "Computer I want an analysis of the object in this picture."
"There will be an 13% chance of error."
"DO IT DAMN YOU!!!!!!"
"Beginning analysis..................Analysis complete. The vessel is a Federation vessel number NCC-70637...USS Galaxy."
"Are you sure?"
"Restate the question."
"Computer, ARE YOU ABSOLUTELY SURE?!!!!....Ignore that, is the vessel in any other image?"
"The vessel is not present any other time."
"Sullax to Erikson." Ryak said. At this point his voice projected the sound of annoyance.
"Erikson here, go ahead Ensign."
"Sir I have the information from the probes analysed."
"Excellent Ensign good work is that it?"
"NO, SIR. I have found a ship in those scans."
"A ship? There were no ships near the star."
"Sir for an instant a ship with the number NCC-70637 appeared."
Erikson went quiet for a bit. "Are you sure?"
"I am. SIR."
"Transfer the data to my terminal on the bridge. It is the end of your shift I'll take over from here. I will contact you later, Erikson out."
Ryak transferred the data and headed for the holo deck.
Devlynn circled her office for the final time. It had been a week since she had received her orders. Becoming Federation Liaison to the Kal-Dixan Government was a step up, she guessed. However it just wasn't what she had considered as her dream job.
Both Governor Richmond and Admiral Farrell had contacted her regarding the transfer. She had accepted, of course. Richmond wasn't a willing partner in the Liaison proposal, but he conceded when he realized that Devlynn was being assigned to the job.
The hardest part was leaving Colby. She really wished she could take him along, but Kal-Dixas was no place for children to be running about. She had broken the news to him gently, and told him that She'd arranged for him to be sent to an excellent foster care facility on Betazed.
The Counselling department was being left in the hands of Lt. Leslie Wilson. A fine counsellor and with a little time under her belt, she would become a great Chief Counsellor, and advisor to the Captain.
She had suspended her duties three days ago. Three long days. No messages taunted her mailbox, no appointments or deadlines were pressing her to the point of distraction. Her life was calm. Dead calm. Too calm.
The great USS Galaxy moved on without Devlynn Salshyar. Really, it was quite depressing. To think that she mattered so little that no one even noticed a difference without her presence. She sighed again as she walked from her office. "Lights out." She spoke before stepping through the door for the last time.
She stepped into the turbolift and spoke, "Bridge." The panels chirped and the turbolift sored from deck 14 up to deck 1. She stepped out of the turbolist and walked around the horseshoe. Captain Price was sitting in the Command Chair.
"G'day 'Mate." She said as she approached, wearing her casual attire. She never could get used to Starfleet uniforms. "All set then?" He said.
"Yes, Sir. The office is cleared for Leslie, Colby is taken care of and I've spoken to the teachers. Everything is set." Devlynn said simply.
Captain Price stood and walked toward the Counsellor. "Devlynn," he said. For the first time adress her by her first name. "Are YOU all set? I know that you have made a number of friends on board the Galaxy, it must be tough leaving, especially sending Colby off to Betazed."
Her bottom lip quivered slightly. "Yes, it is Sir, but I have a job to do..." Her voice trailed off. A moment later she looked up into the Captain's eyes, "I've made arrangements for a transport shuttle to pick up Colby and bring him to Betazed. It should be here shortly. I wish I could see him off, but I have to go now."
Price sighed, "I wish you'd reconsider."
"Sorry Sir, I can't. The Federation needs me on Kal-Dixas." She said.
"I know." Lee said, "but I still wish we didn't have to say goodbye." He took her by the arm. "Let me walk you to the shuttle bay."
Devlynn hooked her arm in the Captain's and together they walked toward the turbolift.
They soon arrived at the shuttle bay. It was ground zero. This was it, her time on the Galaxy was drawing to a close.
The shuttlebay doors opened and the pilot came up to them as they walked into the large room. "Lieutenant, we're ready to fly whenever you wish."
"Nows as good as any, Pilot. Are my things packed?"
"Yes ma'am." He said.
"Well, I guess this is it Captain," she said, turning to face her former Commanding Officer. "I'll really miss this ship. Her crew, and her Captain." She said, giving him a wink.
"And we will miss you too Devlynn." Captain Price said as he leaned in and gave her a kiss on the cheek. "Goodbye Counsellor."
As she stepped into the runabout and the door closed, she turned and said to him, "That's Lieutenant to you, Sir!"
Captain Price couldn't help but laugh...
--
Chirstyn A. LaChance
By: Daniel Lawrence Josephs
Order has finally been returned to the Galaxy but life as David had known it was hardly the same. David was on his way down to Engineering, while he reviewed Gamma shifts progress on ship repairs. The Engineering staff was being stretched in all directions and there was no help in sight.
"Hey, David, wait up!" Ensign Knight called from down the corridor. David halted and waited up for his friend.
"How is everything going Sport?"
"Things could be better but then again I am sure you already know, I was hoping that maybe after our shift that we could get together and go for a couple of drinks. It has been a while since we actually sat down and talked." Knight was almost out of breathe from running to catch up with David.
"I would like that, but I might have to cut it short because I need my sleep if we are every going to get this ship back to normal." The two of them enter Engineering. David walked straight to the main console to see exactly where Gamma shift left off. David was glad to see that they accomplished a lot, but his eyes rolled as he saw how much is still left to do. "O.K. everyone I need your attention. Here is the deal, this is our present repair Queue." David held up a pad and almost started to laugh. "Yes it is quite long so lets get started. Oh, one more thing, once these repairs get done, which will be soon if I have something to say about it, I need everyone to report to me for project assignments. Hey, if you guys thought this was fun just want to find out what I have everyone assigned to. O.K. get to work." David tapped his comm badge. "Mercury to Boudreau"
[Go ahead, David]
"Melissa we need to meet after your shift is over, I would like to go over our present situation. Dinner as usual. Oh, also remind everyone on your shift that I will be assigning porject assignments once our repair queue is empty."
[That sounds good to me, I will see you later.]
"Mercury out"
Dan Josephs
By: "Daniel Woodward"
Orbs and Oomox
The Yosemite docked at DS9, and Endris trotted out of the gear-shaped Cardassian air locks. The small shuttle had been cramped, but the Tellarite had endured worse conditions. The pocket snacks had done little to sate her continual appetite, however. She would go to Quark's for Oinkus. Perhaps she would even meet Julian Bashir. Gakor had several questions about his KytraCell White research and methodologies.
The promenade was fascinating, with smells of all types tickling her delicate sense of smell. This led her quickly passed Vedics, Federation officers, and species from the Gamma quadrant she had only seen in holo images! Without thinking, she managed to reach Quarks. *Tellarites can always find food*, she thought smiling.
As she paused at the doors to one of the Alpha Quadrant's most notorious establishments, she caught a glimpse of a human in a medical tunic playing darts with a...Cardassian? *That must be Bashir and his pal Garak*, thought the pig. This promised to pan out nicely, and she hadn't even asked permission to visit the Bajoran shrine yet! The innovative young doctor had made several fascinating medical discoveries, and might prove to have as many insights into curing Teresi as an Orb!
*** Quark's ***
The security conference was scheduled for the next day, so the bar was full of Federation and allied species. Many of these represented speakers or instructors for the seminars, but there were lots of Klingons and a sprinkling of Nausicaans around the room. The thought of being in such close proximity to the race who attacked her home world made her fur bristle. She was glad for the regulations that had her trim it regularly that still made allowances for Tellarite culture. Had it not been shortened, Gakor's alarm would have been much more conspicuous.
As it was, she noted the proprietor trying to cheat a tall Irridian out of his Dabo winnings. The coat he was wearing was composed of so many odd colored patches, it looked like the exploded fuselage from a garbage scow. Fortunately, Tellarites evolved in a world where taste and smell was more important than vision. Squinting helped her screen out the worst shades of Quark's hideous garments.
Approaching unseen from behind, Gakor launched Recipe #305. *OOmox is bad for business*, she thought silently. Grappling Quark by his prominent handles, rubbing commenced to put the vile little troll off guard. "Ferengi!", she caressed. "I have a proposition for you!", taunted the FEE-male.
"I'm all ears!", joked the Ferengi.
"I don't have time for jokes, Quark". Her tone reminded him of constable Odo, but he was elsewhere on the station making last minute arrangements for the conference. Quark paused in thought, until the robust fur confirmed what he suspected. The woman with his lobes in her hands must be a Tellarite! That gave him enough leverage to bargain with.
"Release me and you can have Oinkus on the house!", Quark claimed with a Ferengi twinge of sincerity.
"No tricks!", said the Doctor. Being on leave, Gakor was in 'civies', so there was no way this tiny money grubber could know she was in Star Fleet. Unless he was better at guessing than most. Living on DS9 was bound to make him a tad more liberal than his fellows. Endris reviewed what little she knew of Ferengi promisees, before she agreed. Oinking in amusement, Gakor piggishly releasing her prize.
"I came here for MORE than plain Feastium", Endris said. It was obvious that Quark had dealt with Tellarites in the past. Sensing an opportunity to conduct a transaction, Quark stared at Gakor with renewed interest, even though he wouldn't give away as much as a single denerius.
"Why don't you introduce me to that Human- the one over there at the dart board?"
Ferengi though all hum-ons looked the same, but still, he knew the person Gakor was referring to. "That's Julian Bashir," said the bartender. "I'm sure he won't mind a visit."
After his genetically enhanced aim propelled him to victory, Doctor Bashir, Garak, and Endris all sat down for a major feast. Gakor almost felt a twinge of regret for extracting the promise of free Oinkus from Quark. But she knew even now the toothy beast was dreaming up some plan to separate her from her assets. Passionately, she dug into a bowl of Bajoran spice pudding.
"Doctor, I'm most interested in your ground breaking work in the field of immunology.", Gakor said between courses. The perky human smiled, and invited his medical comrade down to Sick Bay for a discussion. Garak sulked, and remained annoyingly silent. He seemed as perturbed as Endris at the presence of the Nausicaan delegates.
At the conclusion of the meal, Quark returned to haggle about the bill. He claimed only Endris had free food, and demanded both Bashir and Garak pay for their diners. The opportunity for debate cheered the former member of the Obsidian order, who was still trying to finagle his way out of paying while the two doctors departed for Sick Bay.
***Sick Bay***
"...So I injected the hypo, and the Klingon collapsed.", Julian concluded one of his many diatribes. But Gakor flushed, preferring to discuss the ways they could collaborate on research for a cure for Teresi.
"I think I read something about that in the Federation Journal of Medicine.", claimed Bashir. As a matter of fact, Endris had published several articles in the subspace magazine. "But there is still no cure."
"That's what I hoped to consult you about. I followed your research on the drug KytraCell White." Gakor continued, giving Julian an optical chip containing the results of her own research on the Galaxy. "I was able to isolate and produce a previously unknown enzyme of the drug." Perhaps merging our two skills would produce interesting results.
"Yes! Yes!", Bashir exclaimed exuberantly. "You may indeed be on to something." But Julian was better at psychology than most. He knew the real reason for Gakor's visit hinged on the disease that plagued her home world. "How is the Teresi project going?", he inquired.
"The Tellarite School of Medicine has reached an impasse. There is something ... 'engineered' about the virus that we haven't been unable to unravel." Endris felt like crying, but refused to make a scene. "I was hoping to go down to Bajor and see an Orb. I think the prophets might provide clues that could unlock a cure."
"Endris, there is no need to do that!", said Bashir. "As it happens, there is an Orb currently aboard the station. I forget which one, but it is in the Bajoran shrine." Apparently absent mindfully, Julian turned to the computer and began typing commands.
"Ah
! The Bajorans are holding a special service tonight to ask for guidance for the tomorrow's conference. I added our names to the guest list!", said the useful DS9 physician. "It begins at 20:00 sharp." The gallant chauvinist offered to pick up the visiting Tellarite and escort her to the festivities.
Satisfied that she her private mission was successful, Gakor went back to her visitor's suite to rest. The computer would wake her in plenty of time to be ready for the services.
By: "B'Elanna Torres"
K'Eytyanna stepped off the transporter pad that she had been beamed to from her transport shuttle and slung her satchel over her shoulder. She walked past the ensign and out of the room. Moving down the corridor, she was pleased that everyone decided to leave her alone, due to her Klingon battle-dress.
Walking to one of the public terminals, she brought up a map to the nearest casino, and headed off.
*********************
Walking to the bar, she slammed her fist down and called out,
"Where's the bartender here?"
She heard a clinking sound below the counter seconds before a Terran stood up. He grimanced and spoke,
"What do you want?"
"I'm looking for some type of gambling, something like poker."
The man's eyes lit up and he pointed towards a corridor,
"Back room, tell them Jack sent you. Just don't take out your anger on them if they beat you, okay?" She nodded and headed down the corridor.
********************************
An hour later, K'Eytyanna walked out of the room carrying a second satchel over her shoulder. Jack laughed as she walked past and sat down at the bar,
"You seem to have cleaned them out. What can I get you?"
"A Saurian Brandy." He returned with her drink and she slid him some credits.
Finishing her drink, she headed back to the transporter room.
********************************
Throwing the bag down on her bed, she stretched before tipping the contents of the bag out.
Most of it was un-replicatable currency and gems. However, a small leather-bound book caught her attention. Picking it up, she opened it and found that it was an old technical manual.
"Hmm.. this looks interesting." Throwing all the money back into the bag, she pushed it off the bed and lay back, carefully examining the book.
Getting up, she walked into the main room and sat down at her terminal.
"Computer, bring up information on Terran motorcycles."
[Working... Motorcyles were a form of land-based transport that became popular in the late 20th century. Two large companies from the time were Harley-Davidson and Kawasaki. They were originally based on the internal-combustion engine, using chemical compounds based on hydrogen and carbon, commonly known as hydrocarbons or fuel at the time. Pollution controls gradually forced the motorcycle and car industries into other less polluting methods, namely electromagnetism. After the Eugenics War, motorcycles became less popular and eventually died out. By the time of Earth's First Contact, it was rare to find any. While they were popular, motorcycles were seem as a symbol of freedom, independence and sexual prowess by some.]
K'Eytyanna flicked back to the manual cover and smiled, "Computer, scan through holographic imaging system archive for a motorcycle classified as the Sphyinx Frontline KJ-98."
[Working... Classification found.]
"Good... Create a holodeck program of San Fransisco, current time. Place a Sphyinx Frontline KJ-98 inside it."
[Working... program created.]
Getting up, she went to the replicator and ordered it to produce clothing that was worn by motorcycle riders, along with all the safety equipment.
Pulling it out, she found that there was a jacket, pants and gloves made of black leather, along with a black helmet with a clear hardened plastic face-guard.
Shrugging, she changed into the gear and left her quarters.
Lt jg K'Eytyanna Samara, USS Galaxy - Engineer/Shuttle Pilot
By: Price
After seeing Counselor Salshyar off at the shuttle bay, Captain Price returned to his ready room to finish up some paper work he'd been working on.
The war between the Cardassian-Dominion Alliance was dragging on and as a result, numerous officers were being redistributed throughout Starfleet to cover open positions, much like Dev had just done when she agreed to take the Kal-Dixas assignment.
Lee sighed. He would miss the Galaxy's Chief Counselor, but he had every confidence in Counselor Wilson's abilities to assume the Senior Counselor role on board the ship. Already Leslie was working on getting additional staff for her department.
One of the nicer duties a commanding officer was fortunate to have was the assigning of promotions throughout the crew. Those officers that had earned their rank over many long months, and in some cases, years of service on board the Galaxy. Captain Price smiled when he reviewed the final list before transmitting it to Starfleet Command.
"Lt. Thomas" [pattons@swbell.net]
Besides the list of officers receiving field promotions, Captain Price also needed to transmit Lieutenant Commander Casey Ti Miran's resignation from active duty in Starfleet Command. Miran had decided she wished to spend more time with her new born daughter, something she would not be able to do and serve on the Galaxy as the Chief Helmsman. She'd be remaining on board the Starship as a civilian, thanks to Deiran's commission as Chief Operations Officer and second officer on board the Galaxy.
With Lieutenant Commander Casey Ti's resignation, that made Acting Chief Helmsman Lieutenant Tebrianne Bancroft's position official. She was now the Chief Helmsman on board the premier Galaxy class Starship.
Lee activated the Federation sub-space system and transmitted the list of promotions to Starfleet Command. He was about to hail Lieutenant Commander Casey to make arrangements for a presentation dinner that evening when an incoming transmission was received.
["Captain, Starfleet Command is hailing for you sir. It's coded as new orders."]
Lee tapped his terminal keyboard, "Pipe it to this terminal 'mate." the Captain replied. A moment later the image of Admiral Cunningham appeared on screen.
["Captain Price. You are looking well my friend."] the distinguished gray hared officer greeted.
"Thank you Admiral. A bit weary over the continued hostilities, but otherwise the Galaxy is faring well." Lee smiled, "What can we do for you ma'am?"
["We've been informed that the Galaxy's repairs have been completed. That you are presently space worthy. Starfleet Command has decided that your ship is best qualified to patrol the shipping lanes between sector 291 and 374."]
Lee nodded, "I see Admiral. Patrol duty. Doesn't sound very interesting."
["It may be more interesting than you think Lee. There have been reports of Jem'Hadar sightings along that heavily traveled space route. We feel the frequent presence of a Galaxy class Starship will help to dissuade any hostile actions by the Dominion."]
"Makes sense." Captain Price nods, "When are we to make way to that area of space Admiral?"
["Right away Captain. As soon as you can recall your crew, you are to set course and begin patrolling the area. We are hoping that your presence alone will be enough Lee, but if the Dominion does attack, we know you will be able to handle it."] Admiral Cunningham nods confidently.
"Thank you Admiral. I'll begin recalling the crew at once. We should be able to be underway within the next twelve hours."
["That will be fine Captain."] the Admiral replied while picking up a data padd and glancing at it momentarily before returning her gaze at Lee, ["I have read Captain Sisco's report on the retaking of Deep Space Nine. The Galaxy and the Galaxy attack wing are receiving much of the credit for allowing the Defiant to penetrate the Cardassian blockade. You and your crew should be congratulated Captain."] the Admiral smiled.
"I'll be sure to pass that on to the 'mates Admiral. They will be glad to hear we made a difference."
["You do that Lee, and give them my personal thanks. The Federation desperately needed a victory, and it was the dedicated officers on ships like the Galaxy that provided it. You should all be proud."]
Lee nodded without saying anything further.
["You have your orders Captain. I'll bid you good day. Admiral Cunningham out."]
"G'day Admiral. And Thank you." Lee managed before the channel closed.
The Captain sat there for a moment looking at the Federation "End Trans" logo on the monitor as a smile crept onto his face thinking of what Admiral Cunningham had said. Finally he tapped his comm badge. "Captain Price to 'Commander Casey."
["Casey here sir."] Derian replied.
"'Mate. I'm afraid we need to recall those officers that are on shore leave. We've just received new orders by Starfleet Command. We break port from Starbase 357 in 12 hours."
["Understood Captain. I'll make the necessary arrangements sir."]
"Fair dinkum 'Commander. Price out."
Lee leaned back in his chair and again glanced at the list of officers he'd just awarded field promotions to. Once again, duty would not allow for a full blown ceremony to present the pips that each officer had earned. Captain Price would have to once again hand them out individually, or delegate that pleasure to the respective officers' COs. "One of these days,..." Lee thought, "..one of these days I'm actually going to be able to present these promotions properly."
By: "Ryak Sullax"
Ryak walked quickly to the holo deck. Ryak had a feeling of complete disgust in everything around him. He could feel his blood pressure rising.
"Computer, generate program." Ryak stated as the holo deck doors closed behind him.
"State parameters."
"Setting...Jungle planet comparable to the amazon on Earth, I also want a five man Jem'Hadar assault team in the jungle I also want a 4 person security team to assist me. The Jem'Hadar can be fully armed while the security team can have side arms that is all. I also want a death count on any kill made."
"Game difficulty 1 being easiest and 10 being hardest?"
"Difficulty level 7." Ryak paused before he said the big one. "Computer disable the safety on the game."
"Unable to perform that task."
"Computer override the safety authorization Star Fleet Intelligence Sullax-one-seven-two-alpha-eight."
"Safety protocols off."
"Begin simulation."
The computer gave off a beep and the game begun. Ryak motioned to his team to start a sweep of the area for the attackers. Ryak had everybody split up considering you could see only two feet in front of you due to the mist. Ryak slowly moved through the brush. Movement to the right. Ryak lifted his phaser, turned....Jem'Hadar...Ryak fired at the same time. Ryak missed. The Jem'Hadar hit Ryak's rifle. Ryak pulls his dagger out of his boot. He always keeps one there just in case. Ryak feels a sharp pain in his neck as he is picked up and thrown against a tree. As Ryak turns the soldier leans over to pick him up. Ryak lunges the dagger into chest. The Jem'Hadar vanishes.
"Jem'Hadar 0 kills, Federation 1 kill."
Ryak gets up. "Computer difficulty level 10."
"Jem'Hadar 2 kills, Federation 2 kills."
Ryak could hear foot steps approaching fast. There in front of him de-cloaks a Jem'Hadar soldier. No time to react. Ryak is picked up and thrown against a tree. SNAP!!! Ryak feels his left arm break as he hits the tree. The pain is almost unbearable. The soldier gets close to attack again. Ryak stands up in time and spins around kicking him in the head sending the soldier to the ground.
"Jem'Hadar 3 kills, Federation 2 kills."
Ryak picks up his dagger and lunges at the soldier. Just misses as the soldier punches Ryak in the small of the back dropping him to the ground. Ryak shakes his head rolls over and throws his dagger right as the Jem'Hadar soldier lunges at him. The dagger hits him directly in the forehead.
"Jem'Hadar 3 kills, Federation 4 kills."
Ryak could hear his heart beating. Thump thump, thump thump. Ryak's hands are shaking. His sense of awareness is at its max. There are no sounds of birds or animals just the sound of his own breathing. Ryak goes over to the soldier and pulls the dagger from his skull. A hand touches Ryak's shoulder. Ryak spins around as he stands up. He feels the dagger slide easily into the attackers chest. The warmness of the blood slowly runs down the dagger onto Ryak's hand.
"Jem'Hadar 4 kills, Federation 4 kills."
Ryak pulls out the dagger. Realizes what the computer has just said looks down and sees the federation uniform as the body disappears. Ryak drops the dagger and falls to his knees. His breathing is still so fast he can't think.
All of a sudden Ryak is picked up and thrown into a tree. CRACK! Ryak feels his right arm break. The pain is getting to be to unbearable. Ryak could feel the loss of consciousness coming on. The Jem'Hadar soldier is coming towards him again. Ryak tries to get up. His Romulan side has taken over. The only end to this is an honourable death. He has lost all sense that this is only a simulation. The soldier pick Ryak up by the throat. No words came from the attacker. Ryak couldn't breathe. The soldier slowly walks a short distance, extends his arm and squeezes even tighter. Ryak starts to lose consciousness. One last chance. He musters up every bit of strength left and kicks the soldier. The Jem'Hadar loses his grip and Ryak falls. Little did Ryak know at the time that he was hanging over a cliff. SLAM!! Ryak hits a ledge and stops. Both of Ryak's legs were broken. Too much pain. Ryak tries to hold it in as he says, "Computer end program....Medical Emergency holo deck......"
DARKNESS.
By: Colby Torwyn
Whatever the cause of the subtle chain of events that ended with a Betazed-bound-child afloat with the USS Galaxy, it was irrelevant now. Perhaps it had been a matter of miscommunication or just the simple fact that a doumbfounded shuttle pilot, ready and anxious for his flight to Betazed, had forgotten to make sure that all of his passengers were on board and accounted for. But then again, maybe it was the fact that a very stubborn child refused to leave what had been his home over the past six or seven months. Whatever might have lead to the eventual conclusion, though, didn't matter now. What did matter was that there was a young child wandering around on a very large ship.
"All right AX-10020, you are now cleared for departure to Betazed. Smooth sailing," the shuttle bay officer said with a cock of the head and a smile.
"Thanks. Departure commencing," the shuttle pilot's voice replied over the invisible com speakers.
The low-pitched hum of the engines filled the shuttle bay as an invisible shielding system formed between the crew of the shuttlebay and the ship prepared for departure. The bay doors opened rather quickly and the shuttle, within a few moments, had taken a departing ride around
the space station that served as a temporary home to the Galaxy and streaked off, blinking out into the vast array of stars.
The shuttle bay officer concluded his duties as he closed the shuttle bay doors, quickly repressurized in a few seconds, and reallocated the forcefields into their proper positions.
But, what the officer didn't notice while he was punching buttons and initiating sequences was the fact that an eight year old had just walked, rather nonchalantly, by and out the door into the corridor.
Colby looked to his left and to the right, examining his surroundings. He walked to the left, towards the turbolift and yawned as he made his way inside. He scratched his neck for a second and wiped his nose (still running from his earlier shed tears, a result from his lack of enthusiasm about having to leave Devlynn and the Galaxy). Wiping his eyes, Colby felt the now dried tears and let a few more fall down his face before wiping them away.
Colby thought of where he should go. He couldn't return to the quarters, as they would soon be occupied by Devlynn's replacement no doubt. He couldn't walked into anybody else's quarters, for the fear that he might be caught and sent to the foster home on Betazoid. And he certainly couldn't go to Ten-Forward or the bridge. Undoubtedly, some various officer would recognize him and it might click with them that he wasn't supposed to be here (oh, the woes of being a popular figure among the residents of a starship).
Suddenly, inspiration struck. what better place to make a hideout than the cargobay?
Searching a moment for the right words in his mind, Colby finally said, "Who currently occupies cargobay one?."
"Currently, there are no officers in cargobay one," the computer replied rather matter-of-factly.
"Take me there, then," Colby said, wiping his nose on his sleeve again.
The quiet hum of the turbolift started and Colby waited, rather impatiently, for the lift to finally stop on the appropriate deck. Stepping out after a moment's delay, he walked to the nearest door down the corridor, respectively marked 'Cargobay 1'. Colby stepped up to the door and a small buzzing sound could be heard.
"Level three access is required for cargobay access."
Colby kicked the door out of frustration and the message sounded again.
He had to think. Who could get into the cargobay? Well, there was the bridge crew, the medical staff, the science guys, security... And probably that officer that was walking out of the cargobay as his thought. Quickly, Colby dashed out of sight. The officer turned around momentarily in the doorway and looked down the corridor. Had he seen something? He shrugged and walked away.
Quickly, Colby ran from around the corridor to the doorway of the cargobay which had started to close rather quickly. He picked up his pace and pumped his legs as fast as they could carry all forty pounds of himself.
Making it by a second, Colby managed to dash in the doors of the cargobay. Victory! But with a price. Colby had also managed to slip and fall after getting through the door in his mad dash.
"Owwww!" he yelled in pain as he laid belly-down on the ground. He turned over and looked at his foot. He had twisted his ankle around and felt a tugging sensation.
He started to sputter out what tears he had left and sat up and grasped his ankle. Instinctively, (though it could have been the worst thing to do) he took off his shoe and sock and held his small, now red and swollen ankle, ankle.
He sat there for what seemed to be an hour nd finally lay down, the pain having started to make a slow departure from his ankle (though still lingering). Colby managed to all asleep where he lay on the cargobay, hoping that no one would walk in for the next few hours.
By: RCL
*** Ready Room ***
"Enter." the Captain replied to the door chime, stopping the review of crew reports and ship schedules.
"Sir . . . " the Lieutenant hurried in, out of breath from running around on several decks between Main Engineering and the Bridge.
"I'm sorry 'mate but I told you I wouldn't have anytime."
"This is not about 'The Tempest' sir. It's much more fascinating . . . more disturbing . . . more . . ." Greer tried to summon the words to describe the phenomenon of a second USS Galaxy. " . . . important. I thought you'd want to hear about it."
The Captain looked interested. "You have my attention 'mate."
"The class-8 probes we sent to the Argonii system . . . well we've started to receive telemetry from them and well . . . there was a ship there." the scientist said excitedly, his mind thinking faster than he was able to articulate his thoughts.
"The Jem'Hadar?"
"No sir, a Federation Galaxy-class starship."Greer replied, "US sir. I'm not entirely sure how to explain it sir but it was the Galaxy."
"Computer, location of the USS Galaxy for the last two days?" Captain Price asked the ship's computer, an unsettled look on his face.
[The USS Galaxy has been docked at Starbase 357 for that period of time.]
"Were there any mention of the USS Galaxy reported at any location other than at Starbase 357?"
[Negative.]
"Are you sure about this Lieutenant?" the Captain asked, "It's not a glitch the probe subspace telemetry array or related to the upgrades Ensign O'Hare is performing?"
"Absolutely sure those are the cause sir. Ensign Sullax made a visual confirmation of the ship registry, NCC-70637. I have also began analyzing the data, however, the computer was initially unable to determine the existence or verify that a ship was indeed present in or near the Argonii system. It's definitely the our ship."
"A temporal echo," Lee said soberly, ". . . from before the Galaxy was destroyed."
"That's the conclusion as of this time. We have a visible sensor image of the ship before the supernova and being destroyed by the supernova which occurred approximately twenty-five minutes ago." Greer explained. "We had three probes there sir, at different distances within the system, and all three recorded the same faint image slightly phased out of our own space-time continuum."
"It wouldn't suprise me if it was a result of some unique property of the Argonii system. If it's phased then that would explain the reason the ship's computer might not have been able analyze it."
"We've ruled out the diffusion effect, caused by the properties of the star and interaction with the asteroids, that's the current theory sir. I cannot really accept any other explanation for why the probes would be picking up an image of a starship that is many light years away. It's there but it isn't there."
"I can think of one." Captain said, reflecting on his dealings with Q for a few moments. Perhaps Q had wanted to remind him of the time he spent on the ISS Galaxy, what his ship and crew were in another existence. "Thank you Lieutenant. Please ensure that Ensign O'Hare's upgrades on the Bridge are completed in the few hours. We should be leaving starbase soon."
"Aye sir." Greer said, preparing to leave the office.
"Oh, and Lieutenant." Captain Price said, "You realise the comm system is more efficient than running half-way around the ship."
Greer smiled. "Yes sir."
As Greer left the Ready Room, Lee shook his head, before returning to his work.
*** Several hours later - Deck 08, Room 2133 ***
"Computer, establish a subspace link with Dr. Paul Douglas Erikson of Starbase 133." Greer said as he began to organize something to eat. In all the excitement of the Ensign Sullax's 'echo' discovery he had forgotten to eat or drink.
"Macchiato, hot, two sugars" he requested at the replicator. A welcomed cup full of dark, aromatic coffee materialized within a few milliseconds.
[Subspace link to Starbase 133 established.] the computer's stoic voice announced as the young man was preparing to request a meal.
Moving over to the console, the image of a Human male in his mid-fifties appeared. "Dad, nice to see I was able to finally get a hold of you."
[It certainly has been a while. So what have you been up to Greery?] the exobiologist asked.
Greer cringed at the pet name his father had called him since he was a five. Eventhough Greer was a young man in his mid-twenties, his father persisted on calling him Greery no matter how much he protested. "Not much. We're currently docked here at Starbase 357. I'm currently preparing to do a production here on the ship. Between that an work I haven't really had much time to do anything else."
[And what of that cat of yours. Hatey. Is she still causing mischief? Getting you in trouble?]
Greer laughed. "You know her name is Jasey and yes, she's fine, and no, she's not getting into any more trouble of late, but I've learned to expect the unexpected when it comes to her."
[I heard that ship of yours was at Deep Space Nine . . . during the battle and all.]
"Yeah, we were. It was a little intense there a couple of times, but we got through it in not to bad a shape."
An uneasy silence fell and neither of them spoke. [Your sister said for me to let you know that she'll be going to Vulcan soon.]
"Yeah, I heard. I got a communication from her two days ago. Apparently the senior envoy suggested that she join them during the conference in Vulcana Reygar." the younger Erikson said. "I'm sure she'll do a good job. I was hoping to get home for a while but Starbase 357 is a little too far away."
[Perhaps next time then. I should tell you, Bev also asked me to send her well wishes.]
"Thanks. I must admit I haven't spoken to her for quite a while. If you speak to her before I do, let know I'm still alive."
[You could always send her a message yourself.] the elder Erikson said.
"I was planning to father." Greer replied.
Another uneasy silence fell between the two of them. [Well Greery, I should return to my research. The administration here are a little preoccupied with getting results. You know how they are. I will speak to another time then. Yes?]
"Sure Dad, I guess I'll . . ." Greer said as the comm link between Greer and his father ended. Sitting there for several minutes, he stared at the blank screen before picking up a PADD and working out the rehearsing schedules.
By: Rob
Deiran didn’t take part in the ship wide scare of missing 3 days. What was the point? They were alive, they had a job to do and a war to win. Circumstantial interstellar time travel studies should be saved for peacetime. Fact was Deiran was all business. When he awoke from being dead he was sitting in his office chair at the Ops Dept. HQ. Doing paperwork.
He had memories of dying, he had thoughts of the afterlife and occurrences he would always remember but the Federation had to win this war. And they had to win it at all costs.
But Deiran had put in a good 12 hours of work and he was tired. He wanted to go and be with his wife and daughter. And so he left his office, said good night to a few of his ensigns and a couple of new officers just transferring to the Galaxy and then left for the day. He was so tired he didn’t even stop by Ten Forward to have a drink with Troy Blair, Dr. Tash, Lt. Boudreau, or Lt. Mercury. He went directly to his quarters.
He entered the room expecting to find a beautiful woman waiting for him and no one met him at the door. He walked into the front room and found a host of packed bags. His heart jumped at the sight. "Oh my God she’s going to leave me!" he gasped with fear. And then from his right she glided into the room in a beautiful Bajoran suit with Lara in her arms.
Miran greeted Deiran with a kiss, "Hi Hon, you tired?" she was smiling. Deiran loved Miran’s smile.
"Yes, I’m exhausted. Why are the bags packed?" Deiran was relieved she kissed him.
"Well I’m taking shore leave to Bajor. Please come with us?" Deiran looked into her pleading eyes. How could any man in his right mind turn down those pleading eyes.
"Sure sweetheart. I’ll go. I want to be with you and Lara when you visit Bajor for the first time."
*** Shuttle Yosemite, en route to Bajor ***
Deiran was in the back of the shuttle, his little baby daughter on his knee. He was playing with her and making clown faces at her and she was absolutely loving it. Fortunately for Deiran no one else noticed or he would’ve been a laughing stock of the ship. He was the second officer of one of the most powerful ships in the Quadrant after all. He had a reputation to uphold.
But Deiran didn’t really care. He was trying to become a lighter presence on board the Galaxy. Not an officer who had an ego bigger than the ship. And so he decided to let people see a new side of him.
As he played with Lara he felt something wet on his uniform. "Ohhhhh princess, you went all over daddy!" he said with a laugh. Deiran picked up Lara off his knee and preceded to find her diaper bag and a new uniform for himself.
Unfortunately they didn’t put a changing station in a Starfleet shuttle.
So he had to change her next to the replicators. He didn’t mind though. It was part of being a father. He took the bad with the good. He wouldn’t trade any of it. Lara was such a sweet baby. She hardly cried, she was very aware and observant and always happy to be with her parents. All Miran had to do to make her happy was hand her to daddy and she would just giggle and play for hours with him.
After a few hours of travel, Deiran put Lara down for a nap. Then he went up to keep Miran company.
"So what’s our ETA honey?" he asked as he took the co-pilots seat.
"Another 4 hours," she said smiling back at him, "is Lara okay?"
"Yes she needed a nap."
"Your such a good father, I was watching you with Lara. She just loves you so much," Miran was proud to have such a good man.
"Well I try my best. Smart women take an interest in me, I have no idea why," Deiran laughed at himself.
And they talked about many things the rest of the trip.
*** Arrival At Deep Space Nine ***
Deiran, Miran and Lara stepped onto the promenade and was greeted by Captain Sisko and Lt. Commander Worf.
"Welcome aboard DS 9 ‘Commanders. I hope you enjoy your stay with us." Captain Sisko knew of Deiran’s exploits during the battle to retake DS9 from the Dominion. Of course Deiran didn’t work alone but Sisko was grateful to the senior staff of the Galaxy regardless of who it was. And he also recognized that Deiran was one of the brightest officers in Starfleet. A young man on his way to the top.
"Will you be staying on the station tonight? Or heading directly to Bajor?" Worf asked, his usual mood coming through loud and clear.
Deiran looked to Miran. She shook her head as an affirmative. She was tired.
"Yes Commander thank you. My wife and I are tired and will start for Bajor tomorrow morning."
"Good then follow me Commander," Worf replied as he took a few bags from Miran and started for their assigned quarters.
Sisko stopped them, "Commander Casey, would you and your wife have dinner with me and my son tonight? Lt. Commander Dax and Worf will also be there. I make a great Jambalaya," the Captain was a great cook, everyone in Starfleet knew that.
"We’d love too Captain, what time shall we be there?"
"1800 hours?" he replied.
"We’ll be there early sir," Deiran said and started for his quarters.
*** Casey quarters, DS9 ***
Deiran and Miran settled in, took a long nap and then took a stroll on the Promenade.
The captain gave them very nice quarters. Even had a second room that Lara could sleep in. And a great view of the Wormhole.
*** Promenade ***
Miran took Lara shopping for some Bajoran dresses. While Deiran went to Quarks. He went up to the bar and ordered directly from Quark.
"A Joktaran Mousse Tea please?" Deiran asked. Slouching over the bar like a Cowboy from the 19th century.
"Sure Commander. Coming right up. Can I interest you in Dabo?" Quark asked, thinking he could make a mint off Casey.
"Well I was going to stay away from the Dabo tables for your own good Quark, but if you insist on me breaking the house sure I’ll indulge," Casey laughed. Quark looked concerned, he’d never met anyone so confident of his luck.
An hour later Casey had earned 200 bars of gold pressed latinum on a bet of 3 bars. And Quark was in tears. "I’ll give you free drinks for the rest of your stay just don’t gamble here anymore Commander please!" Quark begged.
This was noticed by everyone in the bar and he was approached by Doctor Bashir and Chief O’Brien. A few minutes later Odo and Major Kira walked in and was sitting with Casey, Bashir and O’Brien. It seemed that Casey had a good enough personality to fit right in.
"You are one of the youngest Lt. Commander’s in Starfleet Deiran, you have an impeccable record. You must have Captains all over Starfleet wanting you to transfer to their ship as First officer?" O’Brien asked.
"Well I’ve had a few offers Chief. But the Captain would have to be brilliant and the ship has to be one of the best Starfleet has to offer for me to leave the Galaxy. I like where I’m at, and my family doesn’t really need to move around right now. But of course, like any good officer I’d think about a good offer."
"The Casey family is quite famous in the annals of Starfleet. Your mother is a brilliant doctor," Dr. Bashir chimed in.
"Thank you Doctor. I guess that’s where I get my brains," Casey laughed.
"Your wife is Bajoran isn’t she Commander?" Major Kira asked.
"Yes major she is. We’re here to visit Bajor."
"That makes you a citizen of Bajor. You have a daughter also?" Kira replied.
"Yes I did accept the Bajoran citizenship and kept my Federation membership. I felt it was good for my daughter so she can enjoy both heritages. And I’ve always respected the Bajoran people. I like fighters, and Bajor fights for what they believe in. I’ll be apart of a people like that anytime. I think we should be more prepared. The Federation Council has us too weak. We weren’t ready for a war when the Dominion attacked. And now we’re having to rush ships into production all over the Alpha quadrant so we can win this war." Deiran showed his passion to everyone at the table. When he was done any of them would’ve fought by his side for what they believed in. If anyone knew about not being ready to fight it was the crew aboard this Station.
And as he finished his speech Miran walked in. Everyone in the bar noticed the beautiful woman as she entered. Even Bashir and O’Brien took notice. Miran walked up behind Deiran. "Hon its time for our dinner with the Captain," she said sweetly.
"Deiran it was nice meeting you," they all said as he shook their hands.
"Take care all. See ya again soon," Deiran waved goodbye as he left the bar.
*** Sisko Quarters ***
The Caseys showed up 5 minutes early. They were Starfleet through and through. Always early.
Sisko, Jake, Worf, Dax, Miran and Deiran sat down at the table to enjoy a good home cooked meal that had Cajun written all over it. As they started to eat Deiran received a transmission from the Station Ops department.
"Excuse me, be right back," Deiran said.
"Take it in my office Commander," Captain Sisko said.
"Aye sir, thank you," Casey replied.
He entered the Captain’s office in his quarters. Accessing the desk console he saw Captain Price’s face appear on the screen.
"Hello Captain, what’s going on sir?" Casey asked.
"I have to call you and the others back. We’ve been called back to duty. I’m sorry but the leave is canceled ‘mate." The Captain didn’t look very pleased that he had to do that. His crew deserved a break and no one more than the Captain knew that.
"Aye sir, we’ll be back in 6 hours sir. When are we scheduled to depart from Starbase 357 sir?" Casey asked.
"In 12 hours ‘mate. I’ll expect you back before then. Tell them all I’m sorry. I thought we had more time, but Starfleet command thinks this is pretty important."
"Aye sir, it comes with the territory. I’ll just blame it on the Dominion and fight harder, how dare they ruin my vacation with my family," Casey laughed as he replied to his Captain.
"No worries ay ‘mate? See you in six," and with that the Captain’s image disappeared.
He tapped his comm badge, "All crew of the Galaxy. Shore leave has been canceled. We are to report back to Starbase 357 in 6 hours. I am sorry and so is the Captain." Casey hated doing that to his crew, but he didn’t have a choice.
He walked back into the dining room where everyone was eating and Miran could tell by his face the news wasn’t good. "What’s wrong Deiran?" she asked.
"Shore leave has been revoked, the Galaxy is being reassigned to patrol duty. Captain has called us all back." Deiran didn’t look happy. Miran knew he wanted to spend time with his family.
Miran looked sad, her head was down. Would she go back or stay. Deiran didn’t have a choice.
By: Scene23@aol.com
The two of them stood side by side in what used to be a DS9 holosuite. Only it had suddenly changed into a dark, red-lit work area. The ‘arch’ had been replaced by an engineering control console, covered in Klingon symbols. Various graphs and power ratios and such blazed on every monitor. To one side the warp core of a starship pulsed, and through their feet they could feel the humming of a ship at full power. The cramped red space was teeming with Klingon warriors, and a buzzing klaxon wailed from every wall. Heavy combat boots clanged against the deck plating around them.
Rom waved a hand before his large nostrils, trying to dissipate the strange- smelling haze that hung in the air. He said, "I don’t like this one bit, Matthew Albrecht." He looked around fearfully. None of the Klingon holograms seemed to notice them, so the program they had been caught up in must either have been set to ignore them, or it was set to treat them as if they belonged there.
A short, muscular Klingon grabbed Matthew’s shoulder and spun him around to look in his face. He shouted, "Do not stand like a child at his mother’s death! Get to your station or I will gut you myself. Do not be mistaken for a coward!" Matthew threw back a Klingon salute, hastily, and headed for what appeared to be the exit from engineering. He supposed that was a Klingon pep talk. Rom followed behind.
Matthew looked at Rom as they headed through the door and into the ship’s hallways. "Do you read Klingon, Rom? ‘Cause I don’t," he asked. He headed down a random hall, in a random direction. *How do you find your way around a Klingon ship?* he wondered. The security officer had never studied Klingon ships in any detail, and couldn’t even tell what class of ship they were on. A sudden jerking of the deck beneath their feet accompanied by a sharp clacking sound startled the two men, who nearly fell into each other.
The lieutenant stood straight and said, "Computer, freeze program." He had seen all he needed to see, and was now ready to put a stop to it. The computer responded with an oldie but a goodie.
"Unable to comply."
He made several more attempts; "Computer, end program"; "Computer, terminate program"; "Arch"; "Computer, run level one self-diagnostic." The computer replied the exact same way to each request.
"Unable to comply."
Rom looked like a Bardavian Three-point Deer caught in hover light. "The holosuite controls are beat up. I have to fix them, or this program will not stop!" Rom wringed his hands worriedly. Looking at the Ferengi reminded Matthew that there were about sixty billion people he would rather be stuck in a holoprogram with. This particular Ferengi couldn’t even run his own business, he worked for his brother; How could he be of any help in this situation?
The security officer found a Klingon control panel, and touched a likely spot on its surface. The panel came to life, displaying a Klingon navy symbol, and lots of Klingon text. "Well, Rom, do you or don’t you?" he asked, repeating his inquiry into Rom’s linguistic abilities. He expected the little man to ignore the question again, but Rom did not.
"Oh, no. I don’t read Klingon. Do you?" he asked in return. The question was asked in all sincerity, in that nasally congested way Rom had of speaking. But then again, it could have been sarcasm. Another jerking of the deck indicated that the ship was indeed under attack by some holographic foe. The lights and console dimmed for a moment, but came back on strong and bright.
Albrecht decided it was sincerity. "No, of course not. How do we find our way to the bridge?" he asked rhetorically. He touched symbols and lettering all over the panel, but none of the responses he received were the least bit informative. Rom stepped up next to him for a better view. Quark’s brother reached between Matthew’s hands and touched one of the odd-looking symbols. An illustration of the ship’s deck plans appeared on the panel’s surface. The taller man looked down at Rom with a surprised expression.
Rom shrugged, and smiled for a brief span, and said, "Lucky guess." Then he headed off for the bridge. Matthew tailed along after the little fellow, not sure of the other’s sense of direction. From the map on the console they were leaving behind, he guessed they were on a ‘Flying Predator’ class medium cruiser. These ships were only captained by officers with high political connections. As they neared the bridge, Klingon warriors hustled by them heading off for damage control.
Rom slowed a bit to allow Matthew to catch up to him. "What do we do once we are on the bridge?" he asked the starfleeter. A note of panic had returned to the diminutive man’s voice now that he was nearing his destination. Matthew considered his answer.
He looked at Rom, and said, "I don’t know. We have to disable this program. How much do you know about these holosuites?" Matthew had a plan, a strange one, that might stop the program dead in its tracks. But he wanted more information.
Rom stood tall, stuck out his chest, and said, "I do all the repairs to the holosuites myself." Obviously proud of his skills, he continued, "I can tear one apart and rewire it in no time." Matthew smiled at the Ferengi’s boast.
"Okay, Rom, what are the protocols for logic errors?…"
**** minutes later ****
The door to the bridge ground open as another blast shook the starship. Matthew stumbled through the door, with Rom following after. Red lighting lit this room just as it did the entire ship. Angry and sweaty Klingon warriors manned several consoles. On the deck were the bodies of three wounded or dead. At least four panels smoked, the smell was horrendous. The engineering console across from the entrance showed yellow areas all around the lower hull. On the screen, through the haze, they could see two Cardassian destroyers sweeping in for another strafing run.
Albrecht marched straight to the captain, armed with his ‘logic bomb.’ He had first heard the puzzler as a child, but he had never found a solution to it. He had determined that if he could get the holosuite’s computer to chew on the puzzle for a while, the two of them could get the doors of the holosuite to open for them again. He stepped directly in front of the captain and said, "Captain, everything I say to you is a lie. I am lying to you right now." He smiled, pleased with himself for coming up with such an ingenious plan. The Klingon’s face showed an expression which must have been perplexion for a split second.
Then the Captain drew his gauntleted hand back and struck Matthew hard, throwing him to the floor. "Fool, you waste my time!! We are in battle!" As if to punctuate his shout, he drew his Klingon dagger, and flung it at Matthew’s lying form. The knife, much to Matthew’s and Rom’s amazement, plunged straight into his thigh. Shock protected the junior grade lieutenant from the pain for a short while. He felt around the wound to see if it was real. Blood began to well from the tear, and he could feel the point protruding from the other side.
A Klingon lieutenant walked over and towered over the Galaxy crewman. He leaned down and grabbed the handle of the dagger, and with the slightest twist to establish dominance, yanked it from the gaping leg wound and tossed it onto an empty console. He then returned to his station with a jerk of his head to Rom. The Ferengi reached under Matthew’s arms to drag him from the center of the bridge. A volley of three consecutive direct hits rocked the starship.
Rom quipped, "I guess we go with plan B, Matthew Albrecht." Pausing from staring at his bloody hand, Matthew looked at his large-lobed companion curiously. Rom continued, "That’s the plan where we wait for the ship to be destroyed, then the simulation is over." He made a scrunched-up, unhappy face and looked at Matthew’s wound. "Oh no, that’s not good either! The Klingon who set up this program must have deactivated the safeties somehow! A simulation of the ship’s destruction might be…" he gulped, "fatal."
The security officer placed his bloody palm flat on the deck plating. He concentrated on the matter at hand. Brightening up, he smiled and lifted his hand to his comm badge. The comm badge had meant salvation back on Dronegar when the Galaxy returned, and it would get him off this damn Klingon Flying Predator now. He tapped it, and immediately heard soft, faint, but identifiable static. His face fell, and he tapped it again. Still static. The simulation was somehow jamming his signal…
Matthew Albrecht
***** Sickbay *****
["Medical Emergency in Holodeck 3"] the computer called out. Cat quickly looked up from her work attending her patient. She called over Kirsten Opel to finish off the healing process and grabbed her first aid kit.
"Computer, who called for the Medical Emergency?"
["Emergency Protocols initiated by Ensign Sullax."]
"Dr Khatroweena to Ensign Sullax... Dr Khatroweena to Ensign Sullax... Computer, current location of Ensign Sullax."
["Ensign Sullax is in Holodeck 3"]
"If this is a case of somebody removing the safeties so they can have a bit of fun, I'll..." Cat got to the elevator before she was able to finish her thought. She informed the turbolift to go to Holodeck 3 and then contacted security. "Dr Khatroweena to Security, I would like Lieutenant Lawson to meet me at Holodeck 3."
***** Holodeck 3 *****
Waiting just outside of Holodeck 3 was Lieutenant Lawson. "Fancy meeting you here!" quipped Cat. "I'm glad you're here. If this is another Holodeck stunt, I will shut these things down until the safeties are hard wired in. Computer, open Holodeck 3."
As the doors opened, Jack asked "Who called in the emergency?"
"Ensign Sullax, One of Greer's people. Oh Jeez..." Cat stood stock still as she took in the Romulan's condition. On first glance, both arms and legs broken. Probably has multiple internal injuries. "That's it, I have had enough of the stupidity of supposedly the best of Starfleet can provide. I am going to have these things shut down. I want you to see if you can stop people just willy nilly coming in here and inflicting these injuries on themselves. You are the computer expert, stop them."
"I'll see what I can do. You better let someone higher up, know about this! You sure you want to do this? It is going to piss a lot of people off."
Cat was crouched over Ryak's body scanning as she replied back, "Right now, you see one pissed off doctor. And if this crew is going to act like children, then I am going to take their candy away from them. It is going to stay that way until they learn to keep the safeties on or they can't be turned off. There were supposed to be safeties,
Sullax here got passed them. Looked what happened to him. NO MORE."
"Dr Khatroweena to Sickbay, I am going to be bringing in multiple limb fractures and internal injuries. I want a nurse standing by. Computer, Medical Transport to Sickbay - Ensign Sullax and me."
Jack watched Cat begin to sparkle and watched to two beam out. He didn't know the Caitian doctor that well, but he was sure that this was the most pissed of he had ever seen her.
***** Sickbay *****
Cat and Ryak coalesced back into solidity, Cat and a nurse went to work. Cat continued her scans and did what she could to heal the Romulan. After he was out of danger and sleeping peacefully, Cat headed for Jurelle's office.
"Hey Jurelle!"
Jurelle looked up at Cat from her notes, she could see quite plainly that something had gotten to Cat. "What is the problem?"
"Jurelle, I thought you better have some warning, I am going to shut down the Holodecks until further notice."
Jurelle raised and eye at that, "Think that is going to help the situation?"
"It going to damn sure stop any more of this happening. You know as well as I do the number of self-inflicted injuries that this crew is inflicting on it self. I am going to put a stop to it."
"Well, What would you like me to do?" Jurelle asked.
"Just give me your support!"
"OK"
"I have got some things to do." Cat left Jurelle's office with fire in her eyes.
From her own office, Cat contacted the computer. "Computer, I am Doctor Felicia Khatroweena, Identification: M179-276SP. I am ordering shutdown of all Holodecks on this vessel. Authorisation: Medical - Alpha, Gamma, Omega, five, niner, seven. As of this date. Allow any current Holodeck programs to completion or shutdown. Activation of Holodecks only on Medical Department Authority. Also keep record of anybody who tries to activate a Holodeck with out authorisation. Confirm!"
["Doctor Felicia Khatroweena on Medical Authorisation alpha gamma omega five niner seven. Shutdown of all Holodecks. Activation on Medical Department Authority. Keeping Log of any attempts to activate Holodecks. All Holodecks are shut down except for #1. Shutdown in twenty seven minutes."]
"Computer, Message for Captain Price, Commander Sterner and Lieutenant Commander Casey.
This message is in accordance with Medical Protocols. I have taken responsibility and the action of shutting down all Holodecks as of 49802.19. I have taken the number of injuries that have been self-inflicted on this crew as unacceptable. As from this time forthwith, until such procedures for safety are set up that cannot be bypassed. The Holodecks will only be activated on Medical Department Authority.
I regret that this must be done, but I will not allow this continual stupidity to continue.
I have asked that the matter of the safety procedures update be looked into.
Doctor Felicia Khatroweena, Lieutenant(j.g.)"
Cat returned to Ryak and was happy the Ensign would live. He would be up and about within a couple of days and within a week should back to his old self. Cat paused for thought, maybe healing people has become too easy. If it took six weeks to heal a break, like it did a few hundreds of years ago, people might be a little more cautious on what they do. Cat was angry at the all of the crew who thought it was a fun thing to do to have the computer 'kill' themselves. Angry, that it seemed that they didn't want to look after themselves.
By: "Selene Stockard"
Ensign Parker was new aboard the USS Galaxy. She had been on board for 24 hours now and was still a bit nervous on the size of the USS Galaxy. When accepting the position on the Galaxy, she was very happy to get into space. But now that she was there she was having second thoughts.
After graduation from Starfleet Medical, she accepted the position on the Starbase 001. She liked it there. There were friends, comrades, and collegues she had which were not here. The reason she left the starbase was because she wanted to be traveling through space, just not staying in one point all the time. It was hard adjusting, but she knew that she would persevere. She always had.
Erin was to report to Sickbay in a few hours for her examination and then, later on in the day, meet with Counselor Wilson her chief commander. She was nervous about that also. On the starbase, her chief was her friend. Commander Ryan Keller was someone who would not be friends with many people, but Ryan and Erin hit it off well upon her coming to the Starbase. She liked that friendship, and hoped she would have a kindship with Counselor Wilson. Only time would tell.
Erin had just returned from the replimat to get her new officer garments. Standard wear aboard the Galaxy was her blue turtleneck with respective gold pips and a gray jacket jumpsuit. Erin changed into her new gear and left for Sickbay.
Upon walking out of her quarters, she looked around. There were people everywhere. Erin wasn't used to 1,000 people in one starship. The starbase was big, but not this big. Every now and again she passed by someone who greeted her. The officers aboard the Galaxy were very friendly. She introduced herself to a few of the officers. One of them especially caught her eye, a Lt. Hunter McKenzie. He called himself Mac. He was the Assistant Chief Tactical officer on board the Galaxy. He really caught her eye. They talked for a while on the corridor. Just chit chat but it was just what Erin needed. Erin and Mac agreed to meet later in Ten Forward when her meeting were over so they could get to know each other.
After Mac went on his way, Erin headed to the turbolift and called out for Sickbay.
Selene
By: John Kirk
" Your medical appointment is scheduled for 1030 hours. You have one hour. "
Despite his orion-trained warrior's reflexes, the computer had still managed to startle him. As a result, the entire head of the model miniature of a Terran Napoleonic Imperial Guardsman was covered in an unsightly blob of blue pigment. He'd been working on an entire battalion ever since he was stationed at Outpost 77 and had never managed to find the time to complete them. The last unit he'd managed to paint was his French Imperial Cavalry, and the unpainted infantry standing next to them on his shelf really was becoming an eyesore.
He sighed and put down his paint brush. Despite the interruption, he was enjoying this day off. Sunder was one of those people who truly took pleasure out of enjoying his own company. A little bit of classical music, a relaxing hobby and some thoroughly fine music was all it took to put Sunder in a totally stress-free state. He'd been warned by various counselors in the past that too much solitude could lead to a dissociative state of anti-socialism, but he'd failed to see how. Sunder simply liked his privacy and he still managed to work well with his team-mates.
He stood up and cracked his massive back. Sitting crouched for so long had stiffened his back a bit. Next to his models was a half-empty box of Deneb chocolate truffle squares. A perfect way to treat his body on the day he was about to have his yearly physical check-up, he mused.
" What the hell... it's my day off. " He said out loud in defiance and popped another truffle into his mouth. A man of few, if no vices, chocolate was a pleasure that he privately revelled in.
After a blazing hot h2o shower, he threw on an off-duty outfit and strolled lazily down the corridor to the turbo-lift. He curtly nodded at various individuals who recognized and greeted him. He quickly made his way into the turbo-lift in an attempt to avoid drawn-out conversations.
Before the doors could close though, a tall ensign in Sciences blues lithely danced her way into the turbo-lift, narrowly missing the closing doors.
" Phew - that was a close one! " She exclaimed, pushing her auburn hair out of her eyes and flashing a smile at Sunder. She had a pronounced accent - not unlike the captain's, he thought.
" Ensign Erin Parker - Counseling. " She announced, proffering her hand. Sunder took it and was immediately surprised by how strong her grip was. She seemed to read his thoughts. " M'dad always said that a weak handshake showed a weak will. "
" Good advice. " Sunder offered up. For some reason his mind seemed to be clouded with indecision. He had nothing to say to this woman - and yet he wanted to say something. His mind searched desperately for something - anything, to say in reply. After an agonizing eternity of a few seconds, he finally remembered his name.
" Sunder - Ursa Sunder. " He blurted, forgetting all sophistication and decorum for once in his life. " Security division. "
" Aren't you a little under-dressed? " She asked, with a glint of mischief in her sapphire-blue eyes.
" No. " Sunder replied simply. What was she talking about? " Hmm... the tunic? It's my day off. " He said.
" Oh. "
There was a thick, uncomfortable silence in the air. Sunder had nothing left in his mental arsenal to say to this woman. They continued to wait for the lift to arrive at its destination and finally, Parker broke the silence.
" Well, here we are. I hope you're not unwell, Mr. Sunder? "
Answer - answer! His mind screamed at him.
" Umm, me too. " He finally managed. That brought a smile to her face. Rallied by her expression, he continued. " Just a physical, nothing really. You know: spectacles, testicles, hammer and tongs? "
After another few seconds of awkward silence - and the odd look on Parker's face as she digested this unsolicited snippet of information, Sunder finally realized what it was that he had said. She nodded farewell and exited the lift.
Sunder remained behind and waited for her to leave, before finally sliding down the wall of the elevator to collapse in a pile of embarrassment.
By: "Ryak Sullax"
Wait, what is going on? Where am I? Ryak could hear people moving about him. The image of the Jem'Hadar soldier rushed into his head. He couldn't move. What is going on? Ryak was unable to move his legs or arms. The frustration starts to build. Ryak slowly starts to open his eyes. What if he is still in the holo deck in some generated torture camp. As he opens his eyes the bright lights temporarily blind him. He is able to adjust. He is in sick bay. Why can't I move? Ryak thought to himself. The anger inside of Ryak was almost at an extreme.
"ARRGGGHHH!!" Ryak yells. He looks around catches a doctor in the corner of his eye and says in Romulan, "vaed'rae!" The doctor doesn't respond. Ryak's blood pressure is at the point of boiling. Ryak can't think straight. He can't get the words to come out in English. Ryak tries to struggle more but cant get free. His breathing is getting erratic. His pulse is racing, He feels trapped. Can't think only react. Ryak starts to feel like a caged animal. He starts getting flash backs from the interrogation room at the Romulan military facility he was at on Romulus. Ryak starts going hysterical. Yelling in Romulan at the top of his lungs.
Somebody is trying to talk to Ryak and calm him down. Ryak hears the English going into his head but he thinks it is a trick. The doctor moves the hypo-spray to Ryak's neck.
"STHEA'HWII!!!!!"
The doctor placed the hypo-spray to Ryak's neck and pressed the button. Ryak felt calm. To calm to talk, fight or move. All he could do is listen.
By: "B'Elanna Torres"
Ignoring the suprised and stunned looks on the faces of the people she passed, K'Eytyanna stopped outside the holodeck the computer had booked for her.
"Computer, load and run program K'Eytyanna-Sphyinx."
[Loading.. You may proceed.]
Entering the room, K'Eytyanna's eyes were drawn to the jet black motorcycle waiting for her.
Moving over to it, she ran her hand over the bike, and slid onto the seat.
"Motorcycle, on."
Nothing happened and K'Eytyanna growled. Pulling the manual out from her jacket, she flicked through it.
"Damn!! It isn't voice-activated, but uses keys. Computer, place a working set of keys into the ignition."
A set of steel keys appeared and K'Eytyanna turned them. Suddenly, she heard a loud roar and dove away from the bike, instincts at full alert.
"Computer, what the hell is that sound?"
[The ignition cycle of a motorcycle, followed by the normal operating sounds.]
"Oh..." Getting up, she dusted herself off and stepped back upto the motorcycle. Sliding onto it, she took hold of the handlebars and put her foot on what the manual said was the acceleration pedal. Suddenly, the bike shot forward as K'Eytyanna yelped in surprise.
She tried to direct it, but only managed to make it skid out from under her. Banging her head against the ground, she looked around to find the bike smashed around a tree.
"Computer, restart program."
The bike and the damage to the tree disappeared, reappearing a second later undamaged.
"I'm going to get this right, even if it kills me."
Lt jg K'Eytyanna Samara, USS Galaxy - Engineer/Shuttle Pilot
By: "B'Elanna Torres"
Hours later...
K'Eytyanna smiled as she rode the bike through the Academy campus, finally glad that she had worked out how to ride the motorcycle.
Stopping near a tree, she tapped her combadge,
"Lt jg Samara to Captain Price."
****************************
Captain Price leant back in his chair, closing his eyes for a few moments. The quiet of the Ready Room was shattered by a chirp his combadge, followed by Lt jg Samara's voice.
Price tapped his badge,
"Captain Price here. What's up, mate?"
[Captain, I have a personal request to ask of you. I can only show it to you down in Holodeck ?, Sir.]
{ I wonder what has prompted this. If she has dragged another exotic animal aboard, I'm going to throw her in the brig. }
"I will be there soon. Price out."
Shaking his head, Lee got up and headed down to the holodeck, wondering what crazy scheme was floating through the mind of his Bajoran/Klingon/Terran engineer.
****************************
Walking upto the door, Lee examined the readout of the holodeck panel.
The door opened and he stepped inside, looking at Starfleet Academy's campus grounds in San Fransisco.
"Lt, where are you?"
From the right, he heard the sound of a vehicle approaching and made out a black figure on it. The vehicle stopped a few metres from him and the figure got off.
The person removed their helmet and Price realised it was K'Eytyanna. She pulled a leather-bound book out of her jacket and passed it over to him,
"Captain, I would like permission to build a motorcycle, just like this holographic one here, using that manual."
Lt jg K'Eytyanna Samara, USS Galaxy - Engineer/Shuttle Pilot
By: "Derek "
As Mac re-materialized on the transporter, he smiled. Things had finally gotten back to normal onboard the Galaxy and Mac was looking forward to some free time….DS9 was the perfect place to start.
As he made his way onto the promenade, he checked over the list on the PADD he held and quickly checked off the items he hoped to get. He
hadn’t had a chance to get back to DS9, as often as he wanted, so he decided to make up for it this trip. He had made several contacts during his time in Starfleet, but none more enterprising or demanding that the one he was about to meet with. As he stopped outside of Quark’s bar he took a deep breath and walked in.
As Mac entered the hustle was the same as he had remembered. The room was filled with laughter, along with the occasional shout of “Dabo!” from the gaming tables.
“God…,” thought Mac, “Even the Klingons appear to be having fun.”
Chuckling to himself he made his way to the bar. He was about to ask for Quark when he heard a voice from behind.
“You have a lot of nerve showing up here, Hoo-man!” shouted the voice from behind. “You cost me 5 bricks of Gold pressed latinum.”
The crowd suddenly grew much more silent as all heads turned to see what was about to happen.
“How was I to know the customs officer would be Klingon.?” Mac replied as he turned to see the diminutive Ferengi standing behind him. “If you would’ ve told me, that they were Tribbles in the container I would have stopped him from opening it.”
The Ferengi continued to glare at Mac until suddenly his face split into an overly large grin and he clasped Mac’s arm with great gusto.
“Never be afraid to mislabel a product. Rule of Acquisition #239.” Chided Quark as he guided Mac to the bar. The customers returned to their various endeavors as Quark called for a bottle Romulan ale.
“Soooo, my friend., what brings you here?” asked Quark as he poured the light blue beverage. “Have decided to quit Starfleet and get an honest job?”
Mac chuckled as he excepted the glass. “No! not yet. I was thinking of becoming a Ferengi merchant, but I heard that the pay is terrible.” Smiled Mac.
Quark grinned, “I think in a past business you were a Ferengi.”
“Let’s hope not. I am a lot better looking,” replied Mac as he clinked his goblet against Quark’s. “I do have a list of items I need before we leave, though.” Handing over the PADD.
Quark looked over the list as a small smile began to form on his lips. “It’s going to cost you…” replied Quark, a gleam in his eyes that Mac knew way to well.
“Well! you know what they say about a fool and his latinum….” stated Mac as he drained the rest of his ale.
-------8 hours later, USS Galaxy-------
Mac hated using the transporter when he drank. As he collapsed onto his bed, he thought about what else he had to do today. He was lucky to have gotten the gift for Counselor Salshyar before she left he had almost miss…
“Damn,” shouted Mac as he jumped form the bed. He was supposed to meet with that attractive new ensign in 10-Forward. Glancing at the chronometer he saw he had just enough time to shower and meet her. As he disrobed on his way to the shower, he kicked himself for forgetting what he hoped would be a beautiful evening.
Lt. Hunter McKenzie, ASST Chief Tactical Officer, USS GALAXY
By: "Daniel Woodward"
*** Guest Suite ***
The computer beeped at 17:00, waking Endris and giving her an hour to prepare for the "Orb Viewing" services at the Bajoran Shrine. The quarters at her disposal were larger than the ones on the Galaxy, although the Cardassian built machinery was more stubborn than on the star ship. Eventually, Gakor persuaded the replicator to generate an appropriate dress for the evening. It was a Bajoran questor's suit, but it was cut from smooth azure silk.
Brushing her hair into something tamer than usual, Gakor called for a small broach to pin it up in a bun. Examining herself in a mirror, the Tellarite found the dress adequate. She even found a Bajoran ear ring pattern that designated she was an alien guest. Her stomach grumbled, not having been since lunch. But it was not time to gorge herself, Bajoran rites could be quite strict, especially when 'off worlders' requested viewing an orb. Gakor settled for a minor snack that managed to quell the tremors.
Before long, Doctor Bashir materialized as promised. He was dressed in a dark noire Tuxedo, something from his native Earth! "Hello, Endris. Time to go see an Orb!", he said with a friendly smile. The pair wandered through the habitat ring and skirted the edge of the promenade until they reached the shrine. Outside, a Vedic was hammering a gong, signalling it was time to enter for the service.
*** Shrine ***
Bajorans of all shapes and sizes filled the chamber to near capacity. There was also a smattering of aliens, including Gakor and her human escort. Julian smiled when he noticed Major Kira was in attendance. He introduced the visiting Tellarite to the station's XO. Nerys noticed they both shared something! There noses were not as straight and tapered as beings from Earth. Her surrogate days over, she didn't sneeze once during the rite.
Touching a hand plate, a trio of Vedics rolled out a bronze-colored box set with sapphires on all four sides. "That is the Orb of Prophecy and Hope", Kira told the visitor. "It can sometimes divine the path of the future!", she said sombrely, a bit eager for a chance to describe her culture.
*Hummm*, thought the Immunologist. *This might be just the thing*. The cure for Teresi had evaded Alpha and Beta quadrant physicians for nearly half a century. If this "Orb" proved accurate, Endris might find the solace she sought. Bajoran incense filled the room with a pleasant fragrance, and relaxing chants also rose from the adherents.
Kira graciously explained Bajoran customs to Gakor. Given the number of guests, Endris was surprised at the attention. She was fortunate that Doctor Bashir introduced her to the Major. As a general rule, Bajorans were cautious approaching other races despite their religious upbringings. After the Cardassians occupied their world for years, this was quite understandable. However, the Federation partnership had fostered new relationships with affiliated worlds.
Endris had read public material on Bajoran beliefs, and she knew the 'wormhole aliens' were better known as the prophets. They appeared in the guise of friends and acquaintances, and were non-corporeal. They also weren't restricted by linear concepts of time. The chanting ceased as the head Vedic paused to open the box.
Not all people who saw an orb had an 'experience'. But the Teresi virus effected the neural energy of those it resided in. Endris hoped this anomaly would allow her to be included in the few who had a vision when the Orb was revealed.
Gakor was not disappointed. The casket opened, and she felt surrounded by a strange force. Violet energy poured from a tall pedestal, which she assumed was where the Orb was resting. Before several seconds passed, Endris noticed her hair was on edge. And she was facing not a friend, but an image of a Tholian raider! Why would the Orb show her that?
No reason was forthcoming, but an image of Albrecht replaced that of her enemy. [Why have you come?] inquired the speaker.
[Another corporeal one is here], sneered a copy of Bashir.
A swirl of bright light made Endris look to her left, where an image of the Kai intoned in a motherly voice [Your Pah is strong, child. Why are you here?]
Gakor had never met the Kai, so she wondered why the Orb would be generating these images. But she felt a response was required.
"I seek knowledge", the Tellarite stammered, with a bit less confidence than she felt. "The cure for a deadly virus inflicting my world."
[Behold], said someone that looked exactly like Doctor Tash. [The cause of your affliction]. Endris expected to see Nausicaan and Tholian attack crafts. Instead, she nearly fainted when she beheld her own image.
Or that of a twin. A black subspace probe casing was on the ground, obviously on Tellar. It was somewhere in the Spice Jungles, where many unique plants evolved and provided flavor for the planet's renowned cuisine. A Vulcan appeared, and cocked an eyebrow. 'Welcome home, Colonel', he said with no trace of emotional inflection.
But this looked like actions currently happening. The attack had taken place more than 4 decades in the past. How could this be her? The two Tellarites appeared to be mirror images of each other, even down to the same age. But Endris didn't have anything close to the provocative leather harness the other woman was wearing.
Just then, air seemed to be sucked from Gakor's lungs. The box had closed, though only a fraction of a minute had passed! Endris wondered what the strange experience meant. Could she have developed such a cruel plague?
Kira had warned her that many encounters with Orbs were peculiar, and things didn't always happen as they seemed in the visions. Overwhelmed, Endris cried "Nourishment!, by the Towers of Cuisine!" Several Bajorans appeared startled, but realized the prophets chose to reveal something to the woman.
It was weird to think that her present, in another reality, had inflicted such damage on her past. What could it mean? Gakor left the shrine, more puzzled than when she first entered.
*** Promanade ***
Elsewhere in the station, Derian Cassey tapped his comm badge and said, "All crew of the Galaxy. Shore leave has been canceled. We are to report back to Starbase 357 in 6 hours. I am sorry and so is the Captain."
Gakor didn't have her comm badge, as she had changed garments. She acknowledged the message via the intercom and went back to her quarters to retrieve her belongings. Since she had not packed much, Endris was at the departure station minutes after the recall order had sounded. She could return to uniform in the shuttle. Commander Cassey's orders sounded urgent, so she did not delay by replicating a medical tunic.
By: TZQK37B@prodigy.com (MR PAT J BURNS)
"Dr., Lt.(jg) Burns is awakening." The nurse presiding over him said.
"I'm coming." Dr. Khatroweena called out. Cat walked over to John as he began to open his eyes.
When John opened his eyes he saw two people leaning over him. He tried to sit up, however he didn't have the strength yet.
"Try and relax Burnsie. It will be a little while before you'll gain your strength back." Cat stated.
"Ho...How long have I...I been...?" John asked stuttering on several words.
"You have been unconscious for the past three days. You had a fractured skull and a concussion but now your all fixed up. You just need a little recovery time." Cat tried to explain while John was fading in and out of a deep sleep. He finally fell asleep and Cat told the nurse again to fetch her when John awakens.
*********5 hours later**********
John awoke again feeling much stronger than he had when he woke up before. Once again the nurse called for Dr. Cat. She walked over and asked how John was feeling.
"Much stronger." John said.
"Let's see if you can sit up then?" Cat said as she guided John and helped him sit up.
After sitting up John looked at Cat and spoke slowly so he wouldn't stutter, "When will I be able to return to active duty Doc?"
"Well I have to perform a couple tests on you and then you can be escorted to your quarters. No strenuous activity though and I would say you'll be back on duty in...two days."
"Alright sounds good doctor, but someone needs to inform Lt. Blair about my absence for the next two days." John requested.
Just then the doors to Sickbay opened and in walked Lt. Blair. "Looks like you can tell him yourself, Burnsie." Cat smiled.
"Yep, sure looks that way." John responded.
"So how is my tactical officer Doctor." Lt. Blair said to Cat
"Doing much better Lt."
"That 's good to hear." Blair directed his attention to John, "So when will you be back on duty Burnsie."
"Doc tells me that I'll be back in operation in two days. How come you came down here Lt.?"
"I have to check up on my officers, don't I?"
"Sounds like a good policy to me sir."
"It is. Now I got some work to do so I'll talk with you later."
"See ya Lt."
John watched Blair leave and then looked at Cat. "Ok Burnsie, are you ready for some testing?" Cat asked.
"Let's get it over with."
Over the past half an hour John had been poked and pried at with just about every medical tool ever made. Finally Cat finished and dismissed him from Sickbay. A nurse helped John get to his quarters and after they arrived he thanked the nurse for helping him to his room.
He sat down in front of the terminal and began recording a message for Mac.
"Computer record message for Lt. Mckenzie."
('Recording')
Hey I heard you got promoted! Just wanted to congratulate you on your new rank...Lt. When you get a chance I'll buy you a drink in ten-forward. I'm off duty for the next two days because of my injury so any time for you will work for me.
Burnsie
"Computer end and send message."
('Message sent.')
John sat back in his chair and relaxed his weakened muscles. Even though he had been sleeping for the past three days his body was still exhausted. John walked over to his bed and lied down. Within seconds he was out cold.
Lt.(jg) John Burns/Tactical Dept.
By: "Tim Stevens"
Ensign Zachary Lamarsh moved quickly through the halls of the USS Galaxy. He had a meeting,with Counselor Leslie Wilson. He didn't want to be late. That would be the first mistake he would make. He didn't like to make mistakes. He was a carrer person. He had to follow in the footsteps of his parents, that was his destiny. A captain, his father was. That would be tough to beat, but he would try, with no help from his father or mother.
The turbolift arrived on the right deck, and Zach stepped off. He walked with a brisk stride. He tapped the door chime to her office and waited for a second. "Come in," a female voice called.
****Office of Counselor Leslie Wilson****
Zach entered, straighting up his uniform before he entered. His eyes flashed to her pips. A Lieutenant. "Sit down," Leslie invited.
Zach sat down on a plush couch. He waited while Leslie took her place at her desk.
"So ensign Lamarsh, how do you like the Galaxy?" she asked.
Zach took a deep breath. "Since this is my first assingment, I'm overwhelmed by the size of this ship. My parents are in Starfleet, so I know the routine. I don't know anybody, but I think that will change shortly."
Leslie nodded. A few questions later she stood up. "Thats all," she said. She smiled again. "If you need anything just ask me."
"Thank you counselor."
With that, Zach left the room.
****Ten-Forward****
Zach sat alone, gazing around the room. Everyone seemed to be with someone else. Everybody knew someone. He didn't. That made him feel sad in a way. This ship was huge, a great ship, and he knew he would come to serve on the ship with hounor.
He looked up from the Data PADD he was holding. Shift duties assinged by Lieutenant Bancroft. He sighed. Gamma shift, or as most officers called it, the grave-yard shift.
He wouldn't like that. And from the looks of things, he would be there for awhile. The waither approched him, bringing him a fresh glass of orange juice. He prefered the drink over the more 'popular' drinks, and he like it that way.
He drank the sweet juice quickly, then stood. Gamma shift started in a few hours. He wanted to get a little sleep before then. He still couldn't get over the size of the ship.
By: "Ens O'Hare"
As Jon lay on his back conducting computer upgrades to the Bridges Aft Science Station, flashes of the image and voice that he has been hearing in the last 24 hours. Also he thinks about the encounter he had in Sickbay with Ensign Neg'Puj. Jon came back to his sense and realized that now wasn't the time to stew about these things. Jon took his Tricorder and started scanning the Isolinear Chips he just got from Lt Erikson. "Excellent, Damn I am good" Jon said with enthusiasm looking at his Tricorder and seeing that he had precisely aligned the chips within specified parameters, which is not easy to do when not in engaged into a system. Jon initiated the Isolinear matrix and replaced the cover plate for the chip bays. As Jon finished putting the cover plate back on he notice that Lt Erikson had returned from talking with the Captain. Jon called to him
"Lieutenant"
Greer replied "Yes Ensign?"
"Sir could you please run a series of data stream downloads from Science Lab I, any old thing would do as long as it is huge. I want to test downstream troughput"
Greer smiled "Of course Ensign, I will also monitor ODN degradation from the main console up here"
Jon chuckled knowing that he had pick the right person to conduct this particular upgrade with. Jon was impressed with the knowledge level of Greers computers systems. Generally the Chief Science Officer has limited knowledge enough to keep him out of hot water with the CO and First Officer, but Lt Erikson's knowledge base when beyond the normal CSO's.
"Thank you that will definitely help me with the test" Jon replied and quickly started scanning waiting for data to start pumping.
Greer pressed several buttons and ordered up that last data dump from the probes sent to the Argonii system. Greer just couldn't resist seeing that particular data again. He was gleeing like a first year cadet. Data started pouring in a significantly higher rate than before, it appear that Ensign O'Hare surely knew his stuff Greer thought. Meanwhile Jon was monitoring the data flow with his tricorder. He notice that the data rate flow had been creased by 60%. He smiled and started to shutdown his tricorder when he notice the data flow started decreasing. Greer notice a significant reduction in data flow and spoke.
"Ensign O'Hare I am experiencing a major data flow reduction are you doing anything to effect the data flow??"
Jon replied "No Sir, standby trying to determine cause" Jon quickly scanned the chip bay where he just installed the new Isolinear chips.
"Hmmmm, appear to be operating normally" then it hit Jon like a ton of bricks "Oh man, I hope it's not...." Jon quickly started to scan the ODN Filter's "Damn!!!" Jon spurted as he quickly removed the pannel from the ODN Filter housing. He visually check the filters and found his problem. "Damn, Cadet Vasquez was supposed to have done a complete inspection of this station prior to me conducting the upgrade. These are some the worst looking ODN filters I have seen. I haven't seen anything like this since my Advance ODN Circuitry class at the Academy" just as Jon was going to tap his comm badge he here Lt Erikson being hail by the Captain.
[Captain Price to Lt Erikson]
"Erikson here Sir"
[What is the estimated time of completion of Ensign O'Hare's upgrade on the bridges Aft Science Station mate?]
"Well Sir, up to about a minute ago it look like he was done, but a problem occurred and he is troubleshooting it as we speak, I will get you a estimated completion time ASAP, is there a problem Sir?"
[Well mate, I just received orders from Starfleet Command to get underway and patrol sectors 291 and 374 for show of command presents. I am going to need that science station up and operational]
"Aye Sir, standby"
Jon heard the conversation between the Capt'n and Greer and knew his butt would be in the sling if he didn't get this thing operational, afterall it was his overall responsibility to ensure that the station was prepared for the upgrade.
Just then Greer stuck his head into the opening of the backend of the station "Ensign ho......" Jon quickly cut then Lieutenant off "Approximately 2 hours Sir" Greer blinked several times thinking that Jon didn't even hear the conversation. "Thanks Jon" Greer's head disappeared. Jon smiled to himself knowing full well that to fix the ODN Filters would only take 1 hour, but he remembered what he had read in Engineering Officer's journal once at the Academy, a Commander Montgomery Scott saying "Never tell them how long it really takes, that way they will think of you as a miracle worker" Jon quickly tapped his comm badge
"Ensign O'Hare to Cadet Foster"
[Foster here Sir]
"Cadet, bring me two ODN filter type GSS-2XB001 to the bridge and make it snappy"
[Aye Sir, anything else?]
"Yes, pass to Cadet Vasquez that I want to see him in Science Lab II after his shift. O'Hare Out" Jon quickly started to remove the ODN Filters when his attention went toward the conversation that Lt Erikson was having with the Capt'n.
"Aye Sir I will keep you informed on the progress"
[Very well mate, tell Ensign O'Hare his is doing a Bonzer job and we are counting on him to get that science station up and running, Price Out]
Greer shook his head and started looking over what data had come through on the ghost ship.
**** Fifteen minutes later ****
"Excuse me Sir here are the ODN Filters that you requested" Jon about jumped out of his skin. There was Cadet Foster squatting down passing one of the filters to Jon. "Cripes Cadet, you about gave me a heart attack, thanks a heap. Did you pass the message to Cadet Vasquez?" Jon asked. "Yes Sir, and he is not a happy camper right now when he saw the filters in my hand and when he found out where I was taking them" Jon thought "Hmmmmm he probably put two and two together and remember he didn't check these ODN filters. Jon grabbed one of the filters and started to put into the housing unit.
**** Twenty minutes later ****
Jon reinitialized the Isolinear matrix and switched power back to the newly replaced ODN Filters.
"Cadet Foster have Lt Erikson comence another data stream download" the cadet stood up and spoke to Greer.
"Sir Ensign O'Hare request that you attempt another data stream download at this time" Greer looked at the cadet then looked at the chronomater "What already? it's only been 35 minutes" Greer had a puzzled look on his face and started where he left off from the last data dump. As Greer stared at the screen his eyes widen somewhat "Damn O'Hare, I don't know what you did, but, my data rate flow has increased by 75% with no errors detected in transmission, Well done" Jon finished putting the coverplate back over the ODN Filter housing and slid out from behind the Aft Science Station and stood up.
"Thank you Sir I couldn't have done it without yours and Cadet Fosters assistance, my I do the honors in letting the Capt'n know?" Greer looke at Jon with a big smile and replied
"By all means Ensign" Jon tapped his comm badge "Ensign O'Hare to Capt'n Price" Jon waited to here that familar accent of the Captain Price.
[Go ahead Ensign]
"Yes Sir, just wanted to inform you that the Bridges Aft Science Station is up and operational at present time, upgrades are complete with an increased data rate flow of 75% that before." Jon paused to wait for the CO's response.
"Fair dinkum 'mate. Sounds like a bonzer job." Lee smiled. "We will be breaking port from Starbase 357 in less than ten hours, it's nice to know Science 'as got everything ship shape for our departure." the Captain looked at Ensign O'Hare for a moment before adding, "Anything else 'mate?"
"No sir." the Ensign replied quickly.
"Well carry on then 'mate. Looks like you've got things well in hand." the Captain said handing the padd back to the young officer, "Dismissed."
By: "Lt. Boudreau"
It was the beginning of Alpha Shift and time for Melissa to wake up. After her shift, she had been too tired to do anything but sleep. As she eat her breakfast, she heard her comm-badge.
[Mercury to Boudreau]
"Go ahead, David."
[Melissa we need to meet after your shift is over, I would like to go over our present situation. Dinner as usual. Oh, also remind everyone on your shift that I will be assigning project assignments once our repair queue is empty.]
"That sounds good to me, I will see you later."
[Mercury out]
There were a few changes in the engineering department. Mostly, promotions for herself, Hewson and Samara. Melissa would have to find them and congratulate them.
For now, Melissa decided that it would be a good time for a holonovel.
"Computer is holodeck 2 reserved?"
[Negative.]
"Good."
Melissa walked to the holodeck and tried to start up one of her holonovels. The computer had different ideas however.
[All holodecks have been shut down by medical authorization.]
"Why didn't you tell me that before I came down here?"
[Please restate request.]
"Forget it!!"
Melissa wondered why the holodecks had been shut down. Hopefully, it wasn't another accident. She hadn't heard of any malfunctions or she would have assigned someone to them. Well, that left Ten Forward.
She walked into the lounge and looked about. No one she knew really well appeared to be there at the moment but maybe they would show up a little later. Melissa ordered a chocolate milkshake and chose a seat by the windows where she could watch the activity at the starbase.
Amelie aka:
By: Colby Torwyn
Colby walked, with a small limp, over to the door of the cargobay and slipped out, rather cautiously, into the corridor. His ankle was still sore and swollen. He knew in the back of his mind that he would eventually need some help but he tried to block that fact out of his thoughts. Colby's main priority at this time was to stay out of sight from any crew member so he wouldn't be sent to Betazed; he was also growing a bit hungry.
Colby made his way into the turbolift and sighed. "Deck ten," he said with a slight waver in his voice. Deck ten, of course, was the only place he knew that would have any replicators at hand--Ten-Forward. After his command, the turbolift obeyed and started on its journey.
Taking only a few moments, the turbolift opened its doors, revealing the short walkway to the Ten-Forward lounge. Colby stepped out slowly and reviewed his surroundings. Looking left and right, he couldn't see or hear anybody that could be walking towards him. All in all, the coast seemed fairly clear.
He approached the doors of the lounge and started to breath heavier, feeling his heart pump harder and harder. This was going to be the hard part--getting in, getting something to eat, and getting out while all the time going unnoticed.
Colby licked his lips out of nervous habit, taking one last glance behind his shoulder. He held his breath as he took a step forward and the door slid open, revealing a group of three or four people, standing close to the door with their backs to him.
Colby felt the knot in his stomach ease slightly as he slipped inward and heard the quiet swish of the doors behind him. He kept his eyes on the group in front of him as he stepped to his side, keeping his back to the wall. It was all well until he hit the corner with a muted thud. He gasped in suprise.
Colby started to look along the walls for any replicator and on the tables for any food that may be unfinished. Within seconds, his eyes were set upon a plate of steamed vegetables, freshly replicated. His target was acquired.
Making his way along the wall further, moving away from the corner, Colby started his slow and gradual trek towards the plate of food. Heart beating and sweat forming along his brow, Colby bit his bottom lip and took another cautious glance at the ensemble near the entrance. He was now directly in front of the food.
He suddenly took a large step forward and set into action. He grasped the edges of the plate but then stopped in mid-action and decided otherwise. He took a napkin in hand and started to pile the steaming vegetables into it. After filling the napkin, he quickly wrapped it tightly and shoved it into his pocket.
Mission complete. Almost.
Colby started to walk again, now nonchalantly, taking the chance that he would be seen walking out.
"Hey!" came a cry from the ensemble, still standing quietly conversing.
Colby turned around suddenly, feeling a knot in his stomach clutch tighter than ever before.
"...so I said, 'Yeah, and? What's that got to do with...'" the man continued.
Colby let out a sputter of air as he realized that the officer was just continuing his conversation. He hadn't been caught.
The tension in the air took a new turn as Colby stepped out of Ten-Forward and into the halls of the ship. He immediately leaned against the nearest wall, not caring to be seen by anyone now and took out his napkin full of vegetables.
Colby indulged in his due rewards, taking his time to enjoy every piece of food available. He smiled inwardly and felt a great amount of relief. His mission had been successful and he had managed to completely ignore his throbbing ankle.
Mission one was completed. Mission two's objective: gee, I'm thirsty...
By: Kahn Nilani
***** CMO's office *****
Jurelle looked at the gold pip resting in her palm, marvelling over the fact that it seemed like it was only yesterday that she was leaving the academy, on her way to a post on the great star ship the Galaxy. Some of her friends had been glad for her, some had just been jealous. And now here she was, a Lieutenant.
Jurelle quietly unattached the empty pip of junior grade and replaced it with the full pip of senior grade and craned her head trying to look at it. Giving up she tapped her com- badge.
"Nilani, can I see you in my office at and the end of your shift, I think celebrations are in order." Jurelle waited for the assistant CMO's reply.
"Agreed Jurelle, I'll be there shortly, and congratulations." Jurelle looked at the now much smaller piles of paperwork and felt a great deal of relief that her world was back to normal. She couldn't imagine what the universe would throw at the Galaxy next, she could only relish the peace and quiet while it existed.
*****
The door chime sounded as Nilani walked through the door carrying a bottle. The Bajoran had a huge smile on her face and seemed in excellent spirits.
"Jurelle, an offering." She held out the bottle with a flourish as she sat in the chair across the table from the Trill. Jurelle took the bottle and read the label.
"Bajoran wine, and a fancy one if I remember my bajoran viniculture. And for you Lieutenant." Jurelle placed the Lieutenent pip on the desk in front of Nilani while she unattached the junior grade pip and replaced it with the full gold pip. "The captain is sorry he couldn't give it to you himself and sends his congratulations."
"Thanks Jurelle" Nilani looked at the pip with a proud smile on her face. "Well, lets celebrate. I've got the Wine and now we need the glasses"
"Not a problem." Jurelle disappeared to replicate some glasses while Nilani opened the bottle of wine.
After a short time Jurelle came walking back. She had two nice flute looking glasses. "The glasses are here, now lets celebrate!"
"Agreed" I reposnded happy and exciting tone. I opened the bottle and poured a large glass of the vintage Bajoran Wine.
**** 30 min later ****
"You know that when I was in the resitance, we never had any real fun but one day we were just watching a troop of Cardassian's that were walking downhill, suddenly one of them triped roled down the hill and into some animal mess. We laughed so hard but the patrol was more concerned with there commander."
Both doctor were really drunk at this point and laughed about the little story Nilani had just told.
"Your turn now Jurelle!"
"Story's, Story's ahh I got one."
**** 6 min later ****
"...and then the professor accidently sat on the urine bottle and got a wet butt." The two doctors burst out laughing yet again as Jurelle came to the end of a 'when I was at starfleet medical' story. Jurelle, red faced from laughing and a little too much wine was sitting cross legged on the top of her desk, while Nilani, in much the same condition, was seated on Jurelle's chair, leaning back with legs resting on the top of the desk.
"I havn't drank that much wine since, I don't know when."
"Well Nilani you do know that we have another bottle to go"
"We do lets bring it out!"
Jurelle reached under her desk and brought out a bottle of wine.
"I have had this saved since I saved someone's life out on the field. And since it is a good occasion we better drink it."
"How old is it?"
"It is from my Second host. And I cant think of how long ago that was."
"Ahh anyway lets drink."
Both were in excellent spirits and feeling terribly pleased with themselves for being promoted. The night went on and on. Eventually both doctor's fell asleep where they were sitting.
"I'm not...dead?"
By Jurelle Tash
By Ensign O'Hare
Science Officer
USS Galaxay
Ensign Neg'Puj
"Terrified Targs"
by Lt jg K'Eytyanna Samara
"A Life after Death."
by Lt. Greer Erikson
w/ Lt. (jg) Leslie Wilson and Ens. Johannis O'Hare
The Journey
by Lt (jg) Endris Gakor
with Lt Cdr Casey Ti Miran
and Lt (jg) Matthew Albrecht
"Journey"
by Lt. jg Thomas
By Ensign O'Hare and Ensign Neg'Puj
"New Positions New People"
By Lieutenant Leslie Wilson
Chief Counselor,USS Galaxy
=/\= "Ferengi Hospitality" =/\=
By Lt jg Matthew Albrecht
Security Officer
USS Galaxy NCC 70637
By: Ensign Ryak Sullax
Science Officer USS Galaxy
"Farewells..." Rev 2
by Lt. Devlynn Salshyar
former-Chief Counsellor
additions by Captain Price
Devlynn Salshyar, Civilian, Kal-Dixas
"Return to Order"
Lieutenant Mercury
Chief Of Engineering
by Lt (jg) Endris Gakor
***Air Locks, DS9***
"Manual"
by Lt jg K'Eytyanna Samara
reviewed by Captain Price
"Promotions and departures"
by Captain Robert Edward Lee Price
"Lt. Dr.Tash" [kbenham@healey.com.au]
"Lt. Boudreau" [amelie@gpu.srv.ualberta.ca]
"Lt. Hewson" [w010176@mail.airmail.net]
"Lt. Samara" [belanna_torres@hotmail.com]
"Lt. McKenzie" [jager@badsector.com]
"Lt. Dr.Kahn" [dsm@picknowl.com.au]
"Lt. Bancroft" [dodger@hevanet.com]
"Lt. Counselor Wilson" [amanda72@rocketmail.com]
"Lt.jg Lawson" [clappert@ihug.co.nz]
"Lt.jg Grump" [grump@preferred.com]
"One Step to Far"
By: Ensign Ryak Sullax
Science Officer USS Galaxy
"Cause and Effect"
by Colby Torwyn
"A Picture from the Past . . ."
by Lt. Greer Erikson, Chief Science Officer
"Back To Work"
USS Galaxy
Lt. Commander Deiran Casey
=/\= "Mission Objectives Pt 1" =/\=
By Lt jg Matthew Albrecht
guest starring Rom of DS9
Security Officer
USS Galaxy NCC 70637
***** Last Straw *****
by Dr. Felicia Khatroweena, Lieutenant (jg), USS Galaxy NCC-70637
Ensign Erin Parker, Counselor, Personal Quarters
Ensign Erin Parker
Counselor, USS Galaxy
The computer's voice suddenly erupted out of nowhere, disturbing the peaceful chiming of Tennak's second movement and the aura of relaxation Sunder had managed to evoke around him for the first time in ages.
"Silence is too Loud"
By:Ensign Ryak Sullax
Science Officer USS Galaxy
"Sphyinx in Holodeck"
by Lt jg K'Eytyanna Samara
reviewed by Captain Price
"Request"
by Lt jg K'Eytyanna Samara
reviewed by Captain Price
“Voices from the past…. pt 1”
by Lt. Hunter McKenzie
ASST Chief Tactical Officer
USS Galaxy
Shrine of Hope
by Lt(jg) Endris Gakor
reviewed by Captain Price
"Recovering"
by Lt.(jg) Burns
"What A Grand Ship This Is"
by Ensign Zachary Lamarsh
w / additions by Counselor Wilson
"Space Patrol"
By Ensign Jon O'Hare
Normal everyday...
By: Lieutenant Mélissa Marie Boudreau
Lt. Melissa Marie Boudreau
Assistant Chief Engineering Officer
USS Galaxy NCC-70637
"Mission One: The Search for Food"
by Colby Torwyn
"Celebrating promotions"
by Jurelle and Nilani