"Pile of Junk"
Lt. Cmdr. David Mercury
USS Galaxy

"Alright people I know she's taken a beaten but we need to put her back together. I want all teams to report me every three hours. Lets get it done. Lieutenant T'Zaq and Ensign McDowell a moment please." The Ensign had been standing in the back of the crowd that had gathered to listen to the Chief. As the crowd broke the young Ensign and the Lieutenant made their way towards David.

"Sir."

"Yes I need to speak to the both of you. Lieutenant, I am placing you in charge of Main Engineering. Here is a list of what needs to be repaired and the order in which I want it done. When 'Commander Samara arrives she will relieve you." David handed her one of his PADDs. "A couple of crew members from Beta shift will be filtering in to help with the repairs. There tasks will be up to your discression."

"Understood sir." T'Zaq took the PADD and headed towards one of the center consoles.

"Mr. McDowell, I need to you to remain in Main Engineering. I want you to coordinate the teams that are doing repairs throughout the Galaxy. Keep everyone busy and moving. Rotate the crew in and out as necessary. Record everything, if you have any question direct them towards T'Zaq."

"Yes sir." McDowell was dismissed. Glancing around for a free console he took the computer console directly across from T'Zaq. She was already busy working. David briefly looked around Main Engineering before walking into his office. Tripping over a pile of parts and other crap on his floor he braced himself with the chair. His office was a disaster. This was starting to become a problem. Tossing the remaining PADD that was in his hand on his desk, David fumbled through the schematics of the cloaking device.

"Crude but effective. But its time to take you apart." David walked out of his office with the schematics to the cloaking device. Heading for the device he noticed that both Lieutenant T'Zaq and Ensign McDowell were already hard at work. Standing over the device, David chuckled. "I never realized how much this looked like of pile of junk." He tossed the schematics on the floor and sat down next to the device.

Several hours passed while David dismanted the device. Each part needed to be marked and labeled for disposal. It was important the there be no evidence that the Galaxy was ever equipped with a cloaking device. Finally finished David grabbed the schematics and headed back towards his office.

"Mercury to Casey"

[Go ahead David.]

"Deiran the cloaking device is dismantled and disposed of. All evidence of it ever being installed has been destroyed."

[Well done, I'll inform the Captain.]

He pulled out his chair from behind his desk and sat down. The Chief Engineer had a choice to make, discard the schematics or keep them. The Captain had order that all evidence of the device be destroyed which included the schematics but from some reason David didn't want to let his go. The Galaxy had a nack for getting herself into trouble and this crude little cloaking device might be helpful again. Discarding just didn't seem right. Reaching for the desk console David unlocked the bottom draw of his desk. He placed the schematic in the draw and locked it. It was time to go home. David felt like he hasn't seen Jordan for weeks.

Dan Josephs

"Repairs"
by Lieutenant JG Jordan Arisa

The huge doors to the shuttlebay hissed open, Jordan almost didn't want to open her eyes for fear of what she might find. Ensigns Yin, Loomis and Frunchmic were scurrying around the shuttlecraft. Jordan sighed as she entered. Yin noticed her presence, brushed herself off and smiled at her superior.

"Report." Jordan ordered as she walked over towards the console.

"Not good sir. The shuttles didn't handle going back through the rift that well. We lost inertial dampeners and forcefields down here for a while. Hence the sizeable hole in the Yosemite, she crashed right into the wall. The Cydonia's computer refuses to power up, and the Yeager could do with a complete overhaul. All the engineers are tied up." she sighed as she handed Jordan the padd.

"Okay, so what are you all doing?" she asked as she tapped at the padd.

"Loomis minored in Engineering so he's working on the Yosemite. Frunchmic and I are working on the Yeager.."

"So I'm on the Cydonia." Jordan said smiling at Yin, who was looking more than a little dishevelled. "I'm still in that nesting period."

Yin laughed then stopped. "Umm Lieutenant..you are engaged to the Chief Engineer."

Jordan waved her hands in protest. "Oh no, I am not doing that. The engineers will get to us without my help. Now give me the report on the Cydonia and lets get back to work!"

--
Camilla Claudia Pretlove

"Never Goodbye."
by Lieutenant Commander Greer Erikson
Chief Science Officer, USS Galaxy

The question from Price seemed to catch Erikson off-guard. At the time he had decided to request unrestricted leave, and to the time he handed the Captain his request, he never really expected to be asked if there was a problem.

As Greer thought about it there were many reasons why his immediate commanding officer could make that assumption. Firstly, there was the recent animosity between the Chief Science Officer and the First Officer. Although he was not sure why that arose, the tension had been apparent before the meeting with Captain Sulu on board the USS Excelsior. Secondly, Lee had been made aware of the prior discomfort that Erikson had felt after breaking off his relationship with Lieutenant Commander Morris. As he thought about it, the Captain's question was more than valid, if not inconvenient.

Captain Price noticed Greer looking at the chair beside him. "Take a seat 'mate." he said, still thinking about the recent turn of even in the war against the Dominion-Cardassian-Breen Alliance.

"Thank you, sir." the scientist said as he sat down. Greer looked at the reflective surface of the Captain's desk and then straight at the Captain himself. "There have been some things that have occurred over the last few months which has changed my mind on a number of things, Captain. I can't explain why but I need this time to gather my thought and regroup before I can continue to function as an efficient member of this crew. At the moment I don't think I can provide that, and what kind of Chief Science Officer would I be?"

He did not want to cause any unnecessary concern and niether did he want any sympathy. It was hard to put in to words what he was both feeling and thinking -- way too hard. It was much easier for him to simply be a little vague, but still truthful, than it was it just come out with the harsh truth. It made Erikson feel somewhat guilty eventhough he really wasn't doing anything wrong.

The Captain seemed to have observed something was wrong, but he respected the privacy of the Lieutenant Commander. "Then why take unrestricted leave? Surely a few weeks should be enough."

"True." Greer replied. "But, I'm just not sure how long that will take. I really don't know."

The Captain started to feel as if the Chief Science Officer was contemplating remaining away for more than a few weeks, possibly even months. Although this was just a suspicion he needed Greer to realise the course of action he was potentially making. "To be honest 'mate, you know I can't keep the position open for too long a period." Lee said as he placed the PADD with Erikson's request down on the desk.

The scientist knew what the Captain was saying. It was something he knew might come if he persisted in following through with this decision -- hopefully it would never come to that point. Erikson knew that he was deluding himself but he simply hated the idea of saying goodbye. Saying that I will be back, and unspecifying that point in time, made him feel much more comfortable. "I understand Captain, but I think this is the best decision."

Placing his thumbprint on the PADD, the Captain officiated the unretricted leave for his Chief Science Officer. "All right then 'Commander, until further notified, you are on unrestricted leave."

"Thank you, sir. I appreciate it." Erikson said as he stood up from his chair. Giving his commanding officer a nod he turned around as Lee watched him walk towards the door.

"And 'Commander," Price said as the Lieutenant Commander stopped and turned around, "I hope you find what you are looking for."

Greer tried to smile reassuringly. He truly wanted everything to be normal again so he could just get on with his life -- like it was before the last fortnight had happened. "I hope so to Captain."

"Decisions, Decisions!"
By Lt(jg)s Tim O'Connell and Neil Bolitho

Neil headed down the corridor towards Tim O'Connells quarters. Neil paused outside his friends quarters and looked down at the padd clenched in his hand.

Neil knew what he was doing was right, it just couldn't continue like this any more! Neil looked up at the door slightly apprehensive and activated the chime.

Tim was reading some information on Jem Hadar weaponry when his door sounded, "come in"

The door in front of Neil opened to reveal, his best friend Tim O'Connell despite their earlier altocation, things had quickly been put right, and forgotten! Neil was relieved at that! he didn't want to............

"Tim!" Smiled Neil a little falsely

Tim's eyes narrowed a bit seeing how nervous Neil looked, "Come in Neil I have been meaning to get a hold of you anyway."

"Then its good timing on my part then! Tim!" repeated Neil again, trying to decide just how he intended to tell him....

"I've....I've......." 'Do it Neil tell him straight 'Thought Neil "I'm going to request a transfer off the Galaxy, I wanted you to be the first to know!" Stammered out Neil a little uncertain.

Tim's eyes got big as doorknobs, "WHAT?? are you insane, get in here boy, I see I must have knocked something loose there. Why the HELL do you want to transfer?"

Neil's smile slowly slid from his face." Tim Its ...its Elaine, I ...well ...um, things are just getting out of hand, we can't say a decent word to each other. The only time she's ever been relaxed in my company has been when she's barely conscious." Neil took in a deep breath and sighed, "I have to do it please understand!"

Tim looked at Neil and finally decided now is good enough, "You Coward" Tim spat at Neil. "Elaine has fallen for you hard, and she wants to start dating you, but rather then face this you run like a Qv'vatlh off the ship."

Neil staring at Tim, blinked, then blinked again." I'm sorry Tim say that again? I don't think I heard you right the first time!"

Tim glared at Neil, "She is falling for you big time and she wants you to stop by if you feel the same way, which you do... you two are perfect for each other so go dammit, you waited with Anna and look what that got you, miserable and drunk... do it again and I'll kick your butt... "

Neil's face turned a pale shade of white as he collapsed down onto Tim's couch, his mind racing at warp speed, trying to absorb what Tim had just told him. Finally after a few silent moments Neil looked up at his friend hovering over him like an angry bear.

"She wants me...... to go to her?"

"yea" Tim replied, "she does. Go to her..... be happy."

Neil stood up, but as fast as he stood up he sat down again. "What do I tell her?" Asked Neil looking totally confused!

Tim sat by his friend, "tell her how you feel. I know you, you've fallen for her, but you can't find the words, and if you beat the hell out of her on the holodeck you'll both end up in sickbay. So howabout trying the truth. Tell her. I know it's the hardest thing to do, but you have to. Or run... choice is yours... do the honourable thing, you did once before."

Neil sat their for a few more moments of silence staring down at the floor before standing and turning to face Tim O'Connell. Neil nodded with a small smile appearing on his face and headed for the exit.

"Oh Tim!"Said Neil pausing by the door smiling ."Its not a good idea to use the word 'Qv'vatlh' around any Klingons. If you did they would probably try force feed your innards to you!" Neil nodded again and left.

"Home?"
by Lt. Commander Thomas

** Bridge **

Chris sat at ops on the bridge as the ship emerged from the chronton rift and hopefully back into the right time. The real test would come after the cleared the phenomena and begin cross checking their records against Starfleet achieves and even then that was no guarantee that everything would be right. Minor changes in the timeline insignificant in and of themselves, but when complied together could've caused some unless changes.

He knew that even through he wasn't in command of the ship or even the first officer the temperoal authorities would begin a full investigation and that in all likely hood he and most of the senior staff would be called for questioning about the incident. The real issue then was how to present what one viewed without causing problems. It was going to be a nightmare trying to get everything sorted on, and Chris could only imagine what Captain Price would be going through when he was questioned.

Now that they were back in their time, he needed to turn his attention to his continuing investigation into what happened to his wife and what happened on that star base. In all likely hood, he would have to be ready for anything and they might come looking sooner for him, if they got wind of his temporal time trip. Things in his life only seemed to get more complicated with each day, the question was what could he do about it. He had some vacation time coming up shortly perhaps it was time to make use of it and deal with this problem once and for all.

The question would then become could he convince the captain to allow him enough shoreleave time to deal with the problem effectively and permanently. Then would he be able to return to the ship as if nothing happened, because he knew already the out come of the results of such actions. He would have to elimante any and all opposition in his path to achieve his objective. Life's funny questions how far would one man go for the love of his life and how much was he willing to risk.

Chris closed his eyes for a moment, he was surprised that none among the crew had noticed the heavy burden he always was caring on his shoulders day in and day out as he struggled to do things. There were days when he wished he could walk back in time and prevent what happened from happening either by never meeting her or by ensuring her safety. His training was most likely about to bring him full circle in life and place his talents, training, and faith in the information that his mentor had left him.

In life and in death one must always strive to do his best and not let those around him judge him to harshly. His life had always been full of ups and downs and some how he'd managed to get through it, but today for some reason he felt like it was about ready to end. In time he figured that he would come face to face with those responsible and only one person would be walking out alive. If his physiological profile evaluation of these men was accurate they'd sooner die then be forced to stand in front of JAG to account for the actions.

Home, was he really home? How long would it last this time and would he have a home to come back to after his actions, So many questions, too few answers it seems. His life was and would never be the same.

Christopher Patton
ICQ # 11497863

Patching up the Wounded
by Lt Commander Endris Gakor

*** Medical Triage Unit ***

Endris had just finished sealing Solendri's punctured lung. The internal bleeding had stopped, and the Andorian scientist would recover nicely. Remembering that orderlies had brought a stasis chamber in during the operation, she trotted over to the support unit to see who was in the chamber. It proved to be Ensign Uhura, with sever cranial trauma. Luckily, D'Tara excelled in the surgical procedures needed to revive Mohammed from the coma. The Vulcan/Trill doctor assumed primary responsibility for Ensign Uhura, since she knew the best methods for healing his ailment, shooing all but the nurses needed to support the operation away from the area to prevent congestion.

"Thank the Towers of Cuisine that the Orderlies used a stasis chamber to prevent neural pathway degeneration," Endris remarked quietly. "Their quick thinking slowed his hemmorage and probably saved the Ensign's life."

Doctor Khatoweena was busy with patients in main Sickbay, and Nilani had found an injured crewman in one of the Galaxy's corridors on deck 5. She requested assistance, Endris tapped her communicator and asked Nilani to provide more information about the patient, and informed her superior that battle casualties to the medical triage unit were finally dwindling, and the most serious cases had been moved to the recovery ward.

Hearing the man's legs were pinned under a beam, Endris prepared the antigrav stretcher as a means to transport the patient to Sickbay. "I can be there in a few minutes. I know that section of the ship is damaged. What route do you recommend?", the Tellarite doctor asked. The Bajoran CMO replied that structural support beams were down in the forward section of the deck, and recommended a couple of pieces of equipment to add to the trauma kit. Gakor confirmed the communication and walked out the door with the supply cart.

*** Deck 5 ***

The requested engineers had not yet arrived. Apparently, there was more extensive damage elsewhere on the ship. Endris improvised, using the antigrav stretcher to lift the beam off the human since it was too heavy for the pair of Doctors to lift manually. Having already assessed the patient, Doctor Kahn took some supplies from the cart Endris had brought from Sickbay and quickly took charge.

"Thanks the Prophet's for your ingenuity", the Bajoran stated. It looked like the Ensign might loose his legs to the battle of Neandra III, however, tricorders indicated removing the beam had helped considerably.

Endris felt the hair on the back of her arms bristle, as if something was setting off an internal alarm. She did an internal assessment, smacking her lips together as if to taste her environment. Gakor excused herself, claiming she sensed trouble elsewhere. There it was! An aftertaste of Arsenic was in the air. Recalling that arsenic was toxic to most humanoids, the Doctor isolated the leak, using her tricorder now that she knew what to look for.

It proved to be from a fractured cargo container. Endris requested the computer erect a level 4 biohazard containment field around the broken canister, and ordered the computer to search for and filter out other contaminates that could have been released during the battle. The field sparkled into being, but the computer failed to acknowledge initializing the procedure that ran the ship wide decontamination process. Endris logged in an urgent request for Engineering to fix the problem, in case there were toxins that the Tellarite's sensitive nose missed.

Four major surgeries and uncounted trauma cases had tired Gakor out. Fortunately, the last of the injured had been located and brought in for treatment.

*** 10 Forward ***

Two hours later, things had calmed down enough that Endris could take a rest break. She headed to 10 Forward, after retrieving Adam Delorbius from the day care facility. The child came through the battle without as much as a scratch, but did appear a bit frightened that his parents didn't seem to be around. He stopped crying only a few minutes after seeing his Moogie had returned. Next, Gakor detoured to the lounge for a quick bite to eat.

Remarkably, the lounge had been one of the areas spared from damage. Electra was busy as always, polishing the wooden banister to a fine shine. Door looked up to see one of his frequent customers come in. Without asking, he constructed a Pan Galactic Gargle Blaster. (Cat had shown him the caustic concoction several months before), and pushed it towards the tired looking Doctor.

"Snacks! What a refreshing (gulp) drink! Just the thing to wash down some of your famous Corn Beef and Cabbage. Oh, and yes, give me an omelette for Dumpling."

"Coming right up," Door said. Now that the danger was over, people were starting to filter back into the lounge. Endris had word that the Galaxy would soon visit Tellar for Matthew and her wedding. Apparently, Captain Price capitulated to the formal request made by the Counsel of Cuisine to fete the state heroine.

*Nourishment! What a Cumbersome Title! It makes me almost wish I hadn't found a cure for that nasty Teresi virus*, Endris thought. *Now who am I going to ask to be my bridesmaids?*, tradition dictated at least 4 attendants to the bride. One to bring the feast of Winter, Spring, Summer, and Autumn. There could be more, but less was unacceptable.

She keyed in a request to see if Doctor Kahn and Cat would like to represent one of the four seasons. Ronni, who had shared a room on the Qu'leth a while back, was also asked to attend. Recalling the plant-loving Numa had recently returned, Endris thought it appropriate to ask her to represent the Fall Harvest season and wrote a fourth message.

Gakor fumed a bit longer over the guest list. She had made a lot of friends during her career on the Galaxy, and didn't want to disappoint any one. Of course, the royal feast and week long Oinkus would do a lot to restore the morale after the battle they had just been through.....

Yawning, Endris went home with her son, took a brisk sonic shower, and then began a long relaxing nap.

Emotions
Lt. Karyn Dallas, Chief Counselor
Lt(jg.) Neil Bolitho, Security Officer
Lt.(jg.) Tim O'Connell, Security Officer
Reviewed and Edited by Lt. Shtik, Science Officer

***Sickbay***

Sickbay was a total mess. She'd been running like a chicken with its head cut off for the past two hours. She'd been on the Bridge when it was reported that Shtik had "escaped" and then had reported back to brig, stating calmly he hadn't been released yet. In all the excitement of the Red Alert, she'd hadn't gotten to interview him. She was on her way to Security when those blasted sirens made her change course. When O'Connell had brought him to sickbay, she reminded herself to talk to him.

Things had slowed down somewhat. All casualties were being attended to and as soon as Shtik had been healed, she took the first opportunity she had.

Karyn couldn't help but be fascinated by the young Vulcan sitting before her. He appeared completely calm, as though his being in sickbay was a perfectly logical place to be. He listened quietly as once again Karyn explained why he was being detained and the serious nature of the evidence against him.

"And you're saying you don't remember grabbing Ensign O'Hare or pushing her down? You don't remember the confrontation at all?" asked Karyn, trying to keep the surprise out of her voice.

"I personally do not recall any of that, but it would be illogical for you to lie about such matters, so I'm inclined to believe you." answered Shtik, neutrally. Karyn motioned for Cat to enter. "Cat and I suspect there is a physiological reason for your...emotional outbursts. I'd like her to examine you to see if our suspicions are correct."

For the briefest of moments, Karyn thought she saw Shtik stiffen. Shtik hadn't known Karyn very long, but he knew enough to know she wasn't foolish. There was only one circumstance which caused a Vulcan to loose complete control like that. He just hoped she would know to be discreet with such knowledge.

Cat passed her tricorder over Shtik, a neutral expression on her face. When she was finished, she answered, "I show a recent increase of hormonal activity, but by all accounts, this appears to be consistent with a common Vulcan condition, said Cat, looking the Vulcan directly in the eyes and showing he and Karyn the readings. "I suspect this was only a temporary condition. With time and proper supervision, I feel you'll make a full recovery. Wouldn't you agree, Shtik?"

"I concur, Doctor., said the Vulcan with relief," thank you for your assistance." Cat looked to Karyn. "Do you agree, Counselor?"

"Absolutely. I think a few days of restricted of duty are needed to give you sufficient time to recover, but now that we found the cause of your outbursts, I don't see any reason to keep you here. I will see about getting you released."

"Well, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go update the Lieutenant's record with the latest information.", said Cat. Karyn watched her go and she was about to leave herself when Shtik touched her arm. "A moment, Counselor."

"Certainly, Lieutenant." said Karyn, turning once again to face him. She could see from the look in his eyes this was going to be difficult to say. "I appreciate the professional manner in which you're handling this...it is most embarrassing."

"I understand. You don't have to explain it all to me now. Her expression turned more serious, "but the next time we'd appreciate some type of warning from you, so we're aware. I realize this issue is sensitive to your people but I have responsibility to this crew. You avoided your physical, knowing we had no other means to assess your health. You came this close, said Karyn, pinching her thumb and forefinger, "to seriously injuring Ensign O'Hare or another crewmember. Please understand now that if this happens again medical condition or not, you'll be relieved of duty so fast you won't know what hit you. For right now, you'll be released and placed on restricted duty until further notice. Do I make myself clear?"

"Perfectly. I sincerely regret what happened. It was never my intention to hurt anyone. I simply wanted to keep matters private. Is Ensign O'Hare all right?"

"She'll recover with time. Right now she's frustrated with herself, she wants so much to help people and I can't say this has been an easy first assignment for her. She was pretty shaken up.

"I don't suppose she's thrilled about me being released either. I realize what I've done was inappropriate. Before I'm released, I'd like to apologize to her in person, if that's possible."

"I think that's a good idea. It might help to bring closure to the incident for her. "I'll ask but I can't guarantee she'll want to come. I'll let you know as soon as possible.

"Thank you, Counselor. I'll wait here for you to return." Karyn nodded, suddenly feeling very tired. She was ready for some r and r but she had some unfinished business to take care of first.

***Main Sickbay***

Neil Bolitho waited patiently outside the brig, occasionally sneaking a glance into the cell area to see how Counsellor Dallas and Dr Khatroweena were progressing with their "Medical" examination.

Neil turned away from the entrance and smiled, well what had seemed pretty open and shut assault case before, now turned out to be a hormone rampaging Vulcan suffering from Vulcan menopause or Pon-Far as it was called." Mate or die!" As Lt T'Zaq had so eloquently put it! He wanted to personally check up on his charge in person. There was no telling when he might go off again. One only had to look at Anna Gartner to realize that.

Neil glanced around sickbay and was fascinated by the bustle of the medical officers. As he waited for the Counselor to emerge, he was reminded of the day when she decided to chew him out. For the rest of the day, he'd tried to go about his business as usual. It wasn't until Neil saw two security officers talking in hushed whispers throwing glances at him and in the direction of the brig that he began to understand' Smiling ruefully Neil relived the "chewing out" he had received from Counsellor Dallas, it seemed as a result of that, security staff were finding other places to be, so as to avoid any further contact with the Chief Counsellor.

Neil Shook his head in faint amusement as Counsellor Dallas and Dr. Khatroweena suddenly appeared out of the brig area, Neil moved to intercept the Counsellor catching her eye indicating that he wanted to speak to her. There was a brief pause before Counsellor Dallas gave a curt nod back and said her goodbyes to Cat.

" Counsellor!" Smiled Neil, " And your prognosis of Lt. Shtik is?"

"Lt. Shtik should recover completely in a few days. I'm placing him on restrictive duty for a while. Before he is released, he would like to apologize to Ensign O'Hare. Assuming that she agrees to the meeting, he can be released from the brig in a few minutes. Don't worry, I'll be present to assure the safety of both of them. You may have a couple Security officers present if you wish."

"I will make the arrangements immedi..... Neil trailed off as he noticed Tim O'Connell had just entered the security office and was bearing down on them like a Borg cube, his face a stony exterior.

" Uh oh." Thought Neil as he moved to intercept Tim O'Connell.

Tim bore down on the counselor ready to tear her a new one just like she did to Neil. He saw Neil moving on an intercept course and Tim tried to evade when Neil blocked him, Tim glared at his friend, "out of the way Neil, I will deal with this in my own way."

Neil looked at him, "yea Tim and that is what scares me, I'm not bailing you out of the brig."

Being blocked by his friend took the edge off the serious anger which would have chucked him in the brig for sure.... "Neil, she humiliated you in public and cut you off at the knees... as far as I'm concerned I'm sick of dealing with those bleeding hearts and artists anyway."

Neil choked back a laugh, and smiled "Tim, thanks really I appreciate it but as you see, I can still walk" Grinning Neil stared into his friends face.

"And the last thing I need is you returning the favour to the counselor, ok?"

Tim looked over at Dallas and then back to Neil, "All right I'll back off but because you asked me, however don't expect me to be so generous next time..." he looked over at the counselor again. "If there is a next time."

Neil nodded " Good now lets put this whole Shtik and O'Hare incident behind us." Neil turned and headed back over to where Counselor Dallas had waited patiently.

"Uh, thank you counselor. As I started to say upon your recommendation, I am releasing and absolving Lt. Shtik of any and all charges with regard to the assault of Counselor O'Hare!"

"Great. With any luck, he should be out of your hair in a few minutes."

"Please sign here." said Neil handing over a padd. Accepting the Padd back, he asked, " Ehh Counselor do you have a moment?" Neil asked his eyes deadly serious.

"Why certainly, Lieutenant." Karyn followed Neil into his office.

Neil lowered his voice. "In connection with the incident yesterday," Neil paused and glanced around the office." Counselor, I'm not one for bearing grudges, so I wouldn't want you to misconstrue this in any way, but I think you are aware your presence in security today, practically caused a stampede in emptying this office!"

Licking his lips Neil continued," Now while this is probably the dream reputation that anyone of us security officers would want, I hardly think it's fitting for one such as yourself to be able to empty a room when she walks through the doors!"

Karyn considered his words for a moment. "Lt...Neil, I'll admit I flew off the handle the other day but y

ou have to understand my position. I had just talked to Elaine a few hours before you took her in. As far as I knew, this incident was still being investigated. I'll never understand why you took her in instead of Shtik when she was the victim and you hadn't gotten your facts straight. I'm going to assume this had nothing to do with your history as children. Karyn looked at Neil directly in the eye, she thought she saw him squirm. "as for my reputation with the security staff, I regret being short with them but they must realize just because I'm a counselor doesn't mean I won't or can't get angry. As much as I'd like to be friends with everyone here, I realize that may not be possible. This certainly can make my job more difficult and I'll do my best to make sure that happens, but I can't make everyone happy. I'm sorry if I embarrassed you.

Friends?" asked Karyn, extending her hand.

"Friends." stated Neil, shaking the Chief Counselor's hand firmly.

"Now, if you'll excuse me I have some business to take care of." Neil watched her go wondering if he truly had made a new friend. One thing was for sure, he would rather have Karyn Dallas as his friend rather than an enemy.

"Returning Home"
By Lt. Jg. Foxtrot
Security

As he saw the USS Galaxy dock with the station a small smile crept over his face. With a sudden burst he moved the mouthpiece back into his lips and began blowing into the bagpipes a song of joy that he would be returning to the Galaxy. Lt.Jg Foxtrot was Home.

Will while upset the USS Thunderchild took a beating like she did from the Damn Dominion. He still loved seeing a new ship and a new crew but nothing was like the Galaxy. Will stopped playing long enough to drink his glass of scotch. Before going to the Thgunderchild William attended and saw over the affairs of his Parents funeral. For the first Time he wasnt sad he saw that glorious ship and nothing but happy.

"Stop That infernal noise,Damn it" a drunk man yelled at Will.

"Excuse me , what did you say to me, sir?" Will said with a smile as confrontation always made him happy.

"I said stop playing that loud obnoxious noise that no one wants to hear!" The drunk said as he tried to grab Will's bagpipes.

Grabbing the man hand and twisting it Will smiled and said"Sir I dont think its a good Idea to touch these."

"Okay,Okay, I am sorry you can play all you want!" The lush said through grunts of pain.

Will grabbed his bag and slung it over his shoulder. He began to play the bagpipes again as he walked towards the Galaxy's docking ring. He began to wonder if anyone would remember him. It really didnt matter to him if they didnt. Even tho he does need to make friends. Before he realized it he stood before the doors to the Galaxy. For a brief second he couldnt breathe.

Based on STAR TREK created by Gene Roddenberry
By Lieutenant Suder
Engineer

"Profile"

Suder stepped into the turbolift. As usual, his fellow friend from Engineering was in there as well. Sighing, Suder turned around to face the door. "'Ve meet again Mr. Bond." Suder sarcastically said. Obviously a delibrate poor attempt at humour, but it got a smile out of the Ensign.

"Haven't seen you round much lately." the Engineer said.

"I've been keeping a low profile." Suder replied looking straight ahead of him still.

"Computer, halt turbolift." the Ensign said. The turbolift stopped and the Ensign turned and looked at Suder. "Problem?" she asked.

"Isn't time always a problem?" Suder replied.

"Time?"

"Yes... 'Time' It seems to me that everyone has a different view of time. Over the past few days, everyone has been in contact with people on the Excelsior, the Enterprise. Even if it was with a nobody. It has altered time."

"How do you figure?"

"One small example," Suder said pointing with a finger counting number one

"an Ensign may have been talking to a friend, found out about an engineering tool that someone here used to repair something. He goes home, uses those designs and before you know, technology is way ahead of time. Even by saying 'Hi, I'm Ensign Baxa', that person may know the parents of Baxa and by saying anything, by doing anything, by simply having this knowledge, time has changed." Suder explained.

"Interesting. Next time I see Q, I'm going to talk to him about this." the Ensign said with a smile. Suder glanced at her as she turned to face the door again. A smile appeared on his face and he took another deep breath.

"Computer, resume turbolift."

***** A Real Headache #2 *****
By Dr. Felicia Khatroweena, Lieutenant Commander
(Assistant Chief Medical Officer), USS Galaxy NCC-70637
w/ Ronni Morris, Lieutenant Commander
(Assistant Chief Science Officer)

***** Deck Eight *****

[Another medical emergency in the Battle Bridge. You busy Cat?] came from Sickbay

"Right, I'll take it. I'm on eight." Cat replied. She turned to Kirsten, "Get him down to Sickbay. Keep a close eye on him." Cat grabbed the kit from the stretcher and headed off. She knew that the Tim was in good hands until she could get to check on him in Sickbay.

***** Battle Bridge *****

Cat moved quickly in, seeing Ronni lying on the floor. The gash on the side of her head badly bleeding, Ronni had taken a bad hit. Cat moved next to her and checked Ronni's condition. Her skin felt a bit cold and clammy; but that was almost normal for her. Her breathing was shallow and ragged, her pulse was rapid. Cat watched with concern as Ronni's gill slits, normally closed, seemed to flutter as if trying to take in air for her as well.

Cat cleaned up the blood from the gash and quickly made a temporary repair. A dermal generator would be used for something more permanent when they finally got her to Sickbay. Cat injected some Tri-Ox into Ronni's system to help her breathing.

"Com'on Ronni. We are gonna have to walk to Sickbay. Up ya get." Cat was kneeling down to try and get Ronni to stand. She flicked her hand in indication for some help and one of the other officers helped Cat get Ronni to stand.

"Ewwwgh" the other female officer groaned as Ronni vomited on to Cat's pants and shoes.

Cat grimaced and ignored the dampness and smell. Finally, Ronni's arm was around Cat's neck and was supported by Cat's arm around her waist. Slowly they headed out.

"Uggh, how do you stand having vomit all over you?" the ensign asked.

Cat looked around at her, "You get used to it. You'd be amazed at what ends up on you when you're a doctor." Cat helped her patient out to the turbolift.

***** Turbolift *****

"No, NO! NO!! Greer! DON'T GO!!! We'll find a cure!" Ronni thrashed incoherantly. Cat held on to the Delphinian. Even in her weakened state, the Science officer was quite strong. Suddenly, she started to sag. Cat put her arm around her and helped to support her.

Suddenly the turbolift stopped and the door opened, Cat frowned as she looked out. It wasn't deck twelve, they had stopped on deck eleven. "Computer: Why have we stopped?"

[Debris in the shaft. Unable to access secondary routes due to debris.]

Cat grimaced, a small growl of annoyance escaped. "Ronni, we have to go a bit farther. We have to walk, com'on lift your leg."

Ronni tried to lift it, she felt too weak. It was easier not to worry about it.

"We're going to have to find another lift."

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

Cat half carried her ward to the next turbolift. They entered the turbolift with three other people, all in different states of injury. An Ensign from Engineering helped Cat carry Ronni to the sickbay. He placed her on the biobed and then went over to have his leg treated.

Cat worked furiously. She scanned Ronni with the medical tricorder. "A severe concussion." Her first goal was to stabilize the Delphinian. She placed the hypo at Ronni's neck, just below the gills, and injected her with a trioxide formula. She breathing relaxed immediately. She then placed a cortical relaxant on the Science officer's forehead and activated. This would induce a coma, and help protect Ronni.

******* Two hours later *****

Ronni looked up at the ceiling, wondering where she was. The last thing she remembered was being on the Battle Bridge coordinating repairs, and helping to distract the Romulans. She tried to sit up, but a head full of dark hair came over and pushed her down. "It ok. You're in sickbay and you're ok now."

The doctor scanned her and said, "You are doing much better. Normally I would keep you here for observation, but we are kind of busy. I think you'll do better in your quarters. I want you to go there straight away and go to bed. Or tank, or whatever . . ." she said with a smile.

Ronni stood up with the doctor's assistance. In the doorway stood Greer. He gave her a half smile and said, "The doctor said that I am to assist you to your quarters."

Ronni turned to her and said, "What, did you expect me to head for Ten-Forward?"

"Actually, yes. Now go home!" said the Caitain doctor with a broad grin.

Ronni and Greer left sickbay. They were enjoying the silence. As they approached her quarters, Greer said, "Ronni, I have something to tell you . . . ."

"Ex-Traitor" - Part I
By Lt(jg) Yazron Beq
Tactical Officer
USS Galaxy

Lt(jg) Jonathan Lucas Brandis
Assistant Chief Operations Officer
USS Galaxy

***Beq's Quarters***

The bleeping console alerted Yaz to an incoming message. He had left Tactical Ops when red alert had sounded, and had went to check on Kamin. He had been in a critical situation and was still being continuously monitored. Yaz hoped he would pull through.

He had then came back to his quarters to get some rest.

Yaz sat down at the console with it's compulsive bleeping. He activated the channel, noting that it was a secured link.

A dark face came on the screen, protected from view by shadow.

"Long time, no see, my friend." The shadowy figure greeted Yaz, immediately he recognised the voice.

"Benson!?" Yaz scowled at the man. "I thought for sure that you would have *DIED* by now!" There was no sarcasm in Yaz's voice as he spoke to this man.

"Now, now - no need to be hostile. After all, you have helped us on more than one occasion." The man's silver hair glistened in the dim light.

"That was a long time ago. You know that I cut off communications with the Maquis a long time ago!" Yaz's face was red with rage. "I will have nothing to do with you!" He reached to terminate the link but was stopped when the man spoke urgently.

"Then, tell me why you still wear that implant that we gave you?"

Yaz looked almost horrified. "But - how d.......?"

"Let's just say I know a lot of things about you. Married, promoted to Lt(jg) - not bad." The man seemed satisfied that he had once again captured Yaz's attention. "So tell me, why do you still wear the thought scrambler?"

Yaz sighed heavily in anger. "If you must know - I would rather not be given a court-martial - and I certainly don't want to disappoint any of my friends and especially not Lorraine. If it helps...." Yaz picked up a tool lying beside his console. He aimed it at his ear, activating a beam. He deactivated it and removed a small chip-like device. "......there. Now goodbye!"

Yaz deactivated the link, satisfied at the shocked expression the man had worn, but afraid of what Lorraine was going to find out the next time she decided to read his thoughts.

Yaz jumped when his comm badge chirped.

=/\=Lucas to Beq.=/\=

"Beq here." Yaz responded.

=/\=I'm picking up an unauthorized scramble code on a transmission your having.=/\=

"I can't really say right now, Lucas."

=/\=I've got to have more than that, Yaz.=/\=

Yaz sighed as he thought about what he was going to do. "This will take a lot of explaining....Can you meet me in your quarters in 1/4 hour?" Yaz asked.

=/\=This better be good, Lucas out.=/\=

Yaz got up and headed for Lucas's room, deep in thought, so deep in thought in fact that he forgot to delete the records of the transmissiom.

TO BE CONTINUED...........

Lt(jg) Yazron Beq, Tactical Officer, USS Galaxy

USS Galaxy "Wrapping up the Business"
Written by Lt Commander Kahn Nilani
Chief Medical Officer, USS Galaxy

Nilani worked on the injured man with Endris assisting, she removed the support beams with the assistance of Endris anti-grav stretcher. The beams were moved and Nilani worked quickly to stabilise the more severe injuries on the injured man. Nilani tapped her comm badge!

"Nilani to sickbay emergency transport, my signal now!"

Nilani and the injured man transported into sickbay, Nilani moved out of the way and allowed the specialized trauma team to work on the patient. She directed the action as the man was placed onto the surgery table his internal organs were displayed on the new hologrid.

***** 1 hour later *****

Nilani walked out of sickbay wearing her coat over her ruined uniform, she stepped into the turbolift. "Deck 2, senior officers quarters!"

The turbolift sped to the correct deck, Nilani stepped out and walked slowly to her quarters. Her door opened and she walked in falling backwards onto her soft bed, before she had the time to relax the computer started.

=/\= Two Incoming internal ship messages =/\=

Nilani sighed 'Why Me!' she thought. "Display messages"

=/\= Working =/\= the computer screen changed =/\= Messages displayed =/\=

Nilani sat up and moved to the terminal, she put her glasses on and looked at the screen. On the computer were the two messages, the first message was from Commander Derian Casey. It was inviting Nilani to a dinner party, the other was from Endris asking if Nilani would be a bridesmaid at her wedding.

Nilani looked at the first message and accepted the invitation, she then brought up the second message She looked at Endris's offer to be a bridesmaid for some time before accepting the offer, Nilani got up from the terminal and changed into some civilian clothes. She turned around picking up her glasses, she walked out of her quarters and to the turbolift, she entered and choose Ten Forwad as the destination.

Nilani stepped out of the turbolift and walked into Ten forward, she saw Teb sitting on the table with the only free chair left. She approached teb and stood beside the table.

"Hi, do you mind some company"

"Both fighters down for the count"
Lt. (jg) Neil Bolitho
Ensign Elaine O'Hare

Elaine started to head back to her office, but turned around and headed to her quarters when she realized that her duty shift was over. She was physically exhausted and emotionally drained. It had been a particularly long day for the ensign. Counseling patients and finally telling Tim about her feelings for Neil.

What she felt for Neil was finally out in the open. It was all up to Neil to how he would handle himself and this situation. O'Hare prayed that he felt some little twinge of emotion for her.

The ensign changed from her blue uniform to a large nightshirt and grabbed a cup of peppermint tea from the replicator. Letting her hair down from the tight bun on her head, she crawled up on the couch and sat in the corner with her legs outstretched on the rest of the couch.

She remembered her last relationship at the academy. O'Hare smiled at the memories of the love of her life back then. He was a hot blooded full Klingon male. The ensign leaned her head back on the arm rest and smiled. Neil tried hard, but there wasn't a snow balls chance in hell that he could throw her around like that Klingon did when they were dating. Elaine instinctively rubbed her side when she remembered how those six broken ribs felt. She knew she had told Tim that she thought it was gross, and in some rights it was, but there were other benefits......... Her pride in the Klingon was evident. But, it wasn't meant to be. He had found some one else more to his liking and had dumped O'Hare in a second. That hurt, it stung her soul. If she had the chance to see him again, it would defiantly not be a very attractive encounter to say the least. Having been so open and honest with someone and having the 19th century door slam in her face, recoiled her from sharing personal information with many people. That's the reason why she had been so reluctant to express her feelings to Neil. She did not want to be so open, and get hurt again. She was a lot tougher physically then everyone made her out to be, but not when it came to matters of the heart.

***Corridors of the Galaxy***

Neil Bolitho almost walked into a wall for the umpteenth time! Mentally cursing himself in some colorful Klingon, Neil suddenly wondered where he was, he remembered leaving the Tim's quarters, everything since then had become a little hazy, well to be clear the haze was occupied by one person Elaine O'Hare.

Neil spotted a computer schematic and strode up to it to find out where he was on this ship. Neil had prided himself on knowing the Galaxy like the back of his hand and being able to pick the shortest route to get to any spot on the ship! But know he didn't have a clue where he was at the moment!

'Damn he was 4 floors down from Tim's quarters and he didn't even remember getting into a turbolift!' Neil leaned heavily against the computer schematic 'Elaine actually likes me!" The thought echoed in his mind, over and over and over. Tim had told him go and tell her, no holding back do the honorable thing.

"The honorable thing!" said Neil out aloud smacking his fist into his palm. "Elaine like me and she wants to date ...... " Neil broke and smiled shyly to two female crew members as they walked past him their eyes wide trying to desperately stifle their giggles.

Neil waited until they had round the bend before shouting down the corridor "YES!" Neil took off at a run and soon found his way to a turbolift, calling out his destination to the computer Neil waited those few anxious seconds until the doors opened and he took off running again until he stopped outside Elaine quarters! Before he could think of it he pounded on Elaine's chime.

Neil took two steps back from the door and prepared to let everything out all that he was feeling.

"Come!" came back Elaine's reply from the other side of the door.

Neil strode forward confidently into Elaine's room, his head sweeping left and right looking for the diminutive strong willed women who had cast a spell on him. Neil looking at either side walked right into a lampshade as he spotted Elaine on the couch, dressed in her nightshirt sipping tea, Neil's jaw opened and closed as he fell to the floor to pick up the lampshade and restore it to its upright position. But the moment he had spotted her all thoughts, all that he had planned and wanted to say, went straight out the door. Leaving Neil staring at the counselor with his mouth wide open!

"Umm....Ehhh I.....ehh...."

O'Hare bolted up from her relaxed position. Nervousness shot through the ensign like a lightning bolt. Elaine could not believe that Neil was standing right before her. And she was dressed.......

Jumping up from the couch, she stammered: "Ah....Hi.....Let me go change...."

Stepping backward a few steps, with a sheepish grin on her face, she turned slowly and walked back to change.

As soon as she was out of Neil's view, Elaine had a very quiet emotional hissy fit. Dancing around, she threw outfit after outfit out, trying to decide the best one to wear. Finally, she chose one, slipping it on hurriedly and returning out to Neil.

"Okay. That's better. Now Lt., what do you have on your mind?"

Elaine sat back down on the couch, gesturing for Neil to take a seat next to her. Nervous energy fluttered in the atmosphere. Elaine was really attempting to keep a cool head, but it was difficult because he actually showed up to see her!

As Elaine had disappeared through to her bedroom Neil let out a collective sigh "Hello or Hi would have been a good start!' Though Neil angrily to himself. Not that he minded her going to change, it gave him a few valuable minutes to put his head back in order!

Neil nervously sat down to Elaine, finding it very hard to look her directly in the eye." Umm I just came from Tim's!" As if this would explain everything.

'Now Neil!' Rumbled the thought process in his mind! Neil looked up into Elaine eye's and he could swear that she was as nervous as him.

"Counselor......I mean Elaine, my friends Tim, Lex, and Jii have all complained about my recent behavior ever since I've come into contact with you! When ever I see you I get met head on by such a rush of emotions that I don't know whether to shout at you or whisper sweet nothings in your ear. As you can judge its generally easier to do the shouting." Neil smiled and remembered their shouting matches, looking away briefly he returned and reached out to Elaine taking her hands in his.

" But what I wanted to do was tell you how I felt about you!"

O'Hare closed her eyes for a second, raised her chin and sighed. Inwardly shouting "YES" The electricity shot through her when he took her hand in his. Elaine could not believe that he was being open with her.

Staring down at the couch, avoiding his gaze, she quietly spoke.

"Well, Neil, I feel the same way. I don't understand it totally, lately I've been experiencing several rushes of emotion also, when I see you or fight with you, and I should know how to deal with them, because it's my job to know how, but I can't when they concern you. You can piss me off so easily with a phrase, and then have me totally enamored with another few spoken words. As of late, it's been the latter."

Sighing, Elaine looked directly in his eyes.

"Okay, I'm going to say this, hoping that you feel the same way, which I think you just told me. I'm finding myself liking you a great deal. I can't concentrate on my work with out having you pop in my head. If you don't believe me, there is a certain Betazoid I would like you to meet!"

O'Hare smiled, waiting for his response, her heart beating 1000 times per second.

"Yes Elaine.... " Neil reached out and gently tilted her face until she was looking straight back into his eyes, so she could see he wasn't lying! ".... I do feel the same way!" Neil felt himself being mesmerized by Elaine's green eyes, her lips looked soft and inviting, with out a further thought, Neil leaned forward and tenderly kissed Elaine on her lips.

Danal's Arrivale
By: Ensign Kale Danal, Ensign Elaine O'Hare
Security officers aka the disgrumbled duo

Scene: Ensign Kale Danal's Temporay Quarters, Starbase 61

Kale looked out the view port and watched the graceful ship Galaxy move in to a docking position, in his mind was excited about getting the opperutinity to serve aboard her.

He was also concerned about how the security department would react to having a more advance computer security officer in their department, this was after all his first time being a full pledged security officer.

Always before he served in computer sciences department, this was something new and exceiting for him. Walking over he looked in the mirror at his reflection, ~Well Kale, she here and your new home is waiting~ he thought to himself staring at himself.

Kale was wearing a pair of stone washed denim blue jeans and a leather vest, he had his commbadge in place. Walking over he picked up his duffle bag and walked out of the quarters, Moments later he walked in to the docking ring and walked through the air lock on to the Galaxy.

This was ship was truly amazing to him, he was last stationed on a starbase so this was something new to him. Almost the instant he stepped on board his telepathic abilities started picking up stray thought from the crew, some of them made him sad but others made him laugh and even blush.

Wondering around the ship just taking in the sights he found a wall unit and pulled up the layout, ~Standard layout, nothing changed here~ he thought to himself.

Turning he walked around the corner and bumped in to a officer, he stumbled back and looked at her she was very beautiful, Red hair with the most memezmerizing green eyes he had ever seen.

"I'm sorry, I'm new to the ship. I'm going to be in security, Ensign Kale Danal at your service" he said with his killer smile.

"Well well, another meat truck. I'm Ensign Elaine O'Hare....also recent addition to the security department. I'm pleased to make your acquantance."

O'Hare reached out her hand and shook the new security officers hand. He had a nice strong grip and for some reason, Elaine felt a tad bit uneasy around the stranger.

*I wouldn't mind him as my partner, when I pass training.* O'Hare thought smiling at the ensign.

*Well with any luck I would be her partner* Kale thought as a smile ran over his face. "Really, I knew I joined security for a reason. Maybe you could help me find my quarters and then give me the gossip going on around the ship" Kale said.

Elaine rubbed her eyes with her fingers and sighed. Elaine flashed him a warning look. "If you joined security to be around women, you'd better think again ensign. The women in security could likly kick your ass with thier eyes shut." O'Hare grimaced when he said gossip.

"The quarters, I can help you find, the gossip, you have to find on your own Ensign. Your're looking at the number one supplier of it on this ship in the last few weeks. I don't spread it, it finds me and mutates around the ship."

"I'm sorry, I ment no offence to you Ensign. My mouth sometimes says the wrong things, truthfully I don't have to time to talk gossip. My work keeps me busy, I'm more at peace with a computer then most people" Kale said.

Kale could sence that something was bothering her, he didn't try to read her mind that was against everything he was tought but her thoughts were so strong he couldn't help but pick them up.

*Uh huh.....no offense taken this time. And if you don't have the time to gossip, why in the hell did you bring it up? Boy, these security guys are so full of themselves. He just better be glad Neil's not here.....*

Elaine smiley coyly, "No offence taken this time Ensign

*Full on myself? God, this woman has some nerve calling me that she doesn't even know me yet* Kale thought has he picked up her stray thoughts. *No offence taken this time* Kale said in is mind in a mocking way.

"Thank you, Ensign, by the way you can call me Kale we are in the same department. Now if you can show me to my quarters, please?" he asked.

For some odd reason, something about this guy really rubbed her the wrong way. It was almost like he could read her thoughts........

"Until I get to know you Ensign Danal, I prefer to keep names strictly professional. All you have to do to find your quarters, is to walk up to that computer counsel over there and say your name."

Her eyes big and inocent, she stated in an instructive, scarcastic voice.

"And, it'll tell you where to go! Isn't that amazing. Computers are wonderfull, don't you agree? It was almost a pleasure meeting you, but, I've got other pressing matters to attend to. You have yourself a most lovely day Ensign."

Turning on her heel, she quickly walked down the hall, her hair bouncing down her back as she walked with a deffinate purpose in her step.

Kale watched her go, *That thought I had about her being my partner, god do I ever take it back. She is hell bent over something that some one did* Kale thought. Walking over to the computer he started looking for his quarters.

As O'Hare round the corner she thought, * I hope I don't turn out to be your partner....* She then contiuned on her way.

"Repairs, delays and new assignments"
by Captain Robert Edward Lee Price

It had been a week since the Galaxy had docked as Starbase 61, the closest Starbase to Narendra III. While the Galaxy engineers where busy cobbling the starship back together, Captain Price was busy preparing his report for the Temporal Authorities. Because of the recent turn of events with the Dominion war, Starfleet was less concerned about the Galaxy's foray into the past then was typically expected. Captain Price didn't know if that was a good thing or not. He was grateful he'd have more time to prepare his report and get everything straight about what had happened, but was concerned that Starfleet Command would have it's attention so focused on the Dominion war now that the Breen had entered the mix that they would decide to put something like a temporal incursion on the back burner. Lee knew that eventually someone would be asking for the details of what had happened, so he was busy putting together the most accurate report of his Starfleet career.

Things were changing on the Galaxy. Lee could feel it. He wasn't sure if that was a result of the war, or simply the normal evolution of a Starship. Over the months he'd seen several officers come and go on board the Galaxy. This month was no different, yet the officers were. Another Counselor had requested a departmental transfer to Security, Ensign Elaine O'Hare. It had caused the Captain to scratch his head and wonder what it was about listening to the crew's problems that caused qualified therapists to wish to pick up a phaser. But beyond that simple transfer, Lee was more concerned over the sudden near resignation of his Chief Science Officer, Greer Erikson. The Lieutenant Commander had been doing an outstanding job as the senior scientist on board the Galaxy and now, without much in the way of an explanation to the Captain, he'd requested unrestricted leave and was very tight lipped about the reasons why. Respecting his senior officer's wishes for privacy, Lee hadn't probed any farther about the reasons behind Greer's request, thought now on hind sight Price wished that he had. Erikson had since turned over the running of the Science department to Lieutenant Commander Morris and had departed the Galaxy with as little fan fare as possible. The Captain couldn't find fault with Erikson's choice of successors in his absence. Rr'lonii was one of the best Practical Science Officers in all of Starfleet. She was the natural choice to replace Greer as department head, if not temporarily, then as a permanent replacement. So to say the incoming transmission from Starfleet Command took the Captain as a bit of a surprise was no understatement.

["Captain, incoming transmission from Starfleet Command sir. Admiral Braggits."] Lieutenant Hermedhie explained over the comm channel.

Lee responded from his Ready Room, "Is it about the Temporal Inquiry hearing 'mate?"

["The Admiral didn't say Captain. If you like, I can ask sir."] Hermedhie replied.

"No. That won't be necessary Lieutenant, patch the Admiral through to my monitor." Captain Price instructed.

["Aye Captain."] Hermedhie responded, patching the Admiral through.

Braggits' image filled the Captain's monitor. An older gentleman, with white hair shaved into a neat flat top buzz cut. ["Captain Price?"]

"I'm here Admiral." Lee began, "What can I do for you sir?"

Braggits gave the Captain a disapproving glance. One did not have to be Betazoid to read the Admiral's disapproval of the General. ["Captain, it has come to Starfleet's attention that your Chief Science Officer has requested unrestricted leave from the Galaxy for.."] Braggits glanced to the side and appeared to be squinting at a datapadd before continuing, ["...*personal reasons*. Have you any idea why one of your senior officers would choose the

middle of a war to request leave Captain?"] the Admiral asked. His tone and body language did nothing to hide the fact that he was not happy with the Lieutenant Commander's reasons as written on the request.

Lee shook his head slightly, "Lieutenant Commander Erikson didn't choose to go into further detail as to his reasons Admiral." Captain Price explained, adding candidly, "Though if he had, I would still not be at liberty to discuss them sir."

It was obvious that the Admiral didn't like the Captain any more that Lee liked being talked down to by the top brass. Braggits expression soured even further, causing the fatty wrinkles around his white eyebrows to furrow in a bulbous manner, ["I see Captain. Well then, given the circumstances, and seeing how you are not offering anything more in way of an explanation for your senior officer's request for 'unrestricted leave' during wartime, I have no other choice then to assign a new Chief Science Officer to your vessel."]

Captain Price was a bit taken back by the Admiral's words. In a gasp, Lee listened to the Admiral continue on in an unflappable tone.

["Lieutenant Commander Steven Alan Graves has been assigned, for now, as a temporary replacement for your CSO. Graves has been doing an outstanding job on board the USS Windsor. I'm sure he will excel on board the Galaxy. You will extend to him every courtesy Captain Price. Is that understood?"] Admiral Braggits finished in a 'not to be argued with' tone.

Captain Price was a little annoyed at having a new Chief Science Officer thrust upon him in this fashion, but given his recent run ins with Starfleet Command, not to mention this latest Temporal Incursion that had yet to be investigated, Lee didn't want to make any waves. "I understand Admiral. When can I expect Lieutenant Commander Graves to arrive?"

["He's just arrived at Starbase 61 Captain. He should be reporting on board the Galaxy within the hour along with some other crew members transferring to the Galaxy from around the fleet."] Braggits explained.

"I'll look forward to meeting him Admiral. Has there been any word on the Temporal Inquiry into the Galaxy's last mission sir?" Lee asked changing the subject.

["Not yet Captain. We have our hands full at the moment with the war effort. But rest assured, someone from the Temporal Authorities will be contacting you for a full mission synopsis and debriefing."] Admiral Braggits explained, seeming to take pleasure in knowing how the Captain would be grilled for his actions in the past with the Galaxy.

"Very well Admiral. I will wait until I hear further word from Starfleet on this matter. Is there anything else sir?" Lee asked.

["No that is all."] Braggits grunted.

"Then Admiral, if the Galaxy has no immediate assignment, I would like permission to take the vessel out of spacedock to shake down her repairs. A pair of my officers intend to be married at Tellar, so I'd like permission to head there if you approve Admiral." Captain Price explained.

["A Tellarite wedding? Quite a festive event in the middle of a war..."] Braggits said sourly, ["That will put the Galaxy closer to sector 001, making things easier for the Temporal Authorities to conduct their investigation. I see no harm in that."] The Admiral smiled wickedly, ["Request granted Price. But let's not have any of your rogue antics. There are only so many unexplained spatial anomalies in the universe Price. I don't want to hear any further wild stories from the Galaxy. Am I clear in this regard Captain?"] Braggits demanded with a raised brow.

"Perfectly clear Admiral." Lee nodded.

["Very well then. Admiral Braggits out."]

The view screen went blank as Captain Price let his fa‡ade fall and declared, "Bastard." at the condescending Admiral. With a calming sigh, Lee activated a channel to the Transporter room.

"Captain Price to transporter room one."

["Specialist Treudeux here Captain. Go ahead sir."] Arielle responded.

"When Lieutenant Commander Steven Alan Graves transports aboard the Galaxy, please have him report to my ready room." Lee ordered.

["I'll let the Lieutenant Commander know Captain."] Specialist Treudeux replied.

"Very good 'mate. Price out." Lee declared, closing the channel.

The Captain then activated his computer terminal to link up with the Starfleet Command database to view this Lieutenant Commander's service records. Lee had a strange feeling about him. Like Starfleet had assigned him to the Galaxy just to keep an eye on it's Captain...

"First Day Back Onboard"
By Lt.Jg.Foxtrot
Security

*********Quarters***********

Fox got right to work on set his room back up. He was never a complicated man. Plain and simple he was when it came to Decorating. He finished up putting his things away and threw on his uniform and went over to wash his face. As soon as he closed his eyes and splashed the water on his face, It Happened.

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

"What The hell was that Fox?" Lt.jg.Schlueter asked him as the ship rattled and the red alert klaxon sounded.

"Dominion, God Damn Dominion, Get to Your post!" Fox told the new LT.JG..

Fox and Schlueter began to run down the corridors to get to the stations. Explosions happening all around. Just as the two began to turn the corner a panel blew next to Lt.Jg.Schlueter. She was thrown back and landed with a hard thump. Fox didnt say a word he just picked her up and ran to sick bay.

"I' ve got wounded here!" Fox said seeing all the other casualties all over.

"Set her down there Fox." Dr. Marcum stated.

As soon as Fox set her down she looked at him and smiled "My Hero, Where would we be without good old Fox!"

"Even when your hurt you have to be sarcastic dont you, never could just say thank you." Fox Teased her.

**Bridge to Foxtrot**

**Foxtrot here go ahead**

**Come up and take a security position**

Fox kissed her hand and ran to go to the bridge. As soon as he reached the bridge , He took up his position on the bridge. He started to glance around and saw all the dead. All the dead, what a waste.

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

Punching the counter fox states"Snap out of it Will, Its over, its all over. Lets go and get ourselves a good stiff drink."

As soon as Fox was heading out the door he saw he had a message. It contained the usual get checked by the doctors talk to your Head of your department.

"I'll go and check in with security, first I guess." Fox grumbled.

**********Security***********

As Will walked in the place was pretty much deserted except for a few duty Ensigns walking around doing routine stuff. Will walked behind the main desk and sat down. The Ensigns paused for a sec. Will gave a look that could melt a breen. He then left a message:

Lt.Commander Sunder and Lt.Commander Albrecht

I have checked in as ordered, no one was here.; All I need is Duty assignment and the usual things. Other than that How ya boys been.

Lt.Jg.William "Fox" Foxtrot

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

Fox stood up and headed out the door towards Ten-Forward. As he walked he couldnt get the images of the Rothchild out of his head. He stepped threw the doors opf Ten-Forward to see it was fairly busy but not much. He recognized a couple of faces but really didnt know them like his friends back on the USS Rothchild.

"What would you like to drink?" Ask the bartender.

"I have that bottle of scotch under the counter marked Foxtrot's" Fox smiled.

"So your the scottsman this belongs too." He smiled widely.

Fox grabbed the bottle and headed for a window seat. He poured himself a glass and began to look over the Security roster. He noticed a bunch of Councelors turning sewcurity and it kinda of worried him.

He picked up his glass, stood up against the window." This is to USS Rothchild may your journies go smoother and take care of my friends." He downs the Glass and then pours himself a new one."This one here to the USS Galaxy may she be forever my home that lives forever."

Will just stood there then looking out into space.

“Sunlight, Moonlight: Part 2”
USS GALAXY
Commander Deiran Casey
Lt. Commander Casey Ti Miran

To the depths of love
I chase you to the ends of the earth
For everything you are
For everything you do
For all that I see in you

The soul’s light
Your sweet caress
My heart’s delight
Just the touch of your lips
My longing is never quenched

I view strength in your eyes
When you look at me
Your inner beauty is all I see

Now we embrace
Become one
Two lovers in life’s
Sweet harmony

The night seemed peaceful, tranquil in the eyes of two lovers. Lovers that had been apart for far too long. Separated by pain and agony, a death of soul and spirit. But on this night the barrier was crushed to the earth and they came together with a renewed passion.

Deiran had longed to express himself to his wife. He was at the point where he had almost forgotten what she was like. His images of their past romance fading like a distant, cloudy memory.

He was patient. Few men could love with patience. Deiran was a passionate man. There were times where he let that passion go too far. But, when he looked into Miran’s eyes he found a hiding place for his extremes, his desire. She completed him, not just in love but in life. When he thought about it she was his patience. Just as she was his life.

The sand, the ocean and all that circled around the great blue, the brisk night air; it all vanished. The only thing that existed to the lovers was the other. The feel of skin, the gentle touch was all that was known. Their awareness was the pleasure of the other. Their passion changing from desire to a true love that few could only dream of or dared to have. Two souls becoming one. Everything else seemed to disappear.

Deiran and Miran knew how strong their love was, how strong their bond. But they unconsciously allowed the memory of their desire for one another to fade. They became two souls with one heart, but torn apart by pain.

It was inevitable that such love had to be shown, expressed in a physical way that only they could understand.

Deiran knew her every wish, he knew her every desire, her wants and dislikes. He moved gently, caressing her body like a sweet fragrance that brightened the senses. They moved in unison, as one.

Their physical love had always been there, it was never thrown by the wayside. It had been put away for a time to be rekindled on a night like this. Like the power of ashes spewing from Helens or Versuvius their passion and ardor cascading like the crystal clear water in the falls of some Irish cove.

It had been far too long for both. Lovers reunited in soul and being, yet the bodies never parted.

The night air was warm. Deiran held Miran close to his chest. He did not want to let her go. He embraced her with all his love. They didn’t have any thing covering them, there was no need to cover anything. They had nothing to hide.

Deiran looked in Miran’s eyes and saw tears beginning to form. There were no words for what he felt inside when he saw those tears. Did he do something to hurt her? To offend? He was gentle in every way, slow and pleasing. He did nothing that she did not enjoy in the past. Everything she desired he did with love. But those tears fell from her eyes and dripped down to her cheeks.

“Miran what is wrong? What have I done?” he asked, she could hear how hurt he was and the pain he felt as she cried after such a beautiful moment between them.

"Oh, my love," she touched his lips softly. "You did not do anything." Her hand brushed his hair back from his forehead. He kissed her tears tasting the salty wetness on his lips.

"Please don't cry my love. You are my everything." He held her tight trying to understand, but he questioned no further.

He took her home and helped her to dress for bed. There they laid as one until morning as they dreamed of each other.

"How Intruiging..."
by Lt JG Elaiithin & Lt JG O'Connell

Squeegle-de-doop.

The officer at the door pressed the button again.

Squeegle-de-doop.

Finally, Lieutenant jay-gee Tim O'Connell came to the door. He let out a grin. "Jii, what's up?"

The Bajoran officer walked inside when Tim gestured for him to enter. "Not a lot, Tim, I just wanted to give you the latest update on Nausicaa."

"Okay," Tim grinned. "But I've got soemthing to tell you first..."

Tim;s eyes held a mischevious glint, "I'm getting married... To Eshar."

"You're kidding?"

"Nope, it's for real, I asked she said yes.. we're engaged."

Elaiithin, in true Vulcan fashion, raised an eyebrow. "How intruiging..." he said, deadpan. Then he let out a laugh, and clapped his friend on the shoulders. "Congratulations, Tim! This is excellent news! when's the wedding?"

"Well..." Tim replied sheepishly. "We really haven't set a date yet.. but she is telling her family. Mine are going to flip, I think."

Tim brought him a glass, "this calls for a drink, and you can fill me in on Naussica."

Elaiithin sniffed the drink for a second. "Whiskey?" he asked, and Tim nodded. THe two toasted Tim's good fortune, and the knocked thier glasses back.

"Very well. I've made contact with an old associate of mine, a friend who was kicked out of the Academy my freshman year. He'll be able to supply transport and weapons. The team is going to consist of Rotan, myself, you, Niel, & Gartner. Maybe a few others. We'll be heading off not this leave, but next. We don't have a firm set a goals yet. One things for certain, though. None of us will be in uniform. It can't be publicly know that Starfleet has a group of Security Officers on a hostile world, even if we aren't going there as Security Officers, but as friends of a former world leader, or in other words, Rotan. So..try to keep quiet, because the less people that know where we're going to be, the better chance we have coming out of this alive."

Tim nodded, "And getting out alive is a good thing. Besides I don't want to drag half the crew along anyway... but as for cover, my uncle, Dave is kinda a big wig in Starfleet maybe we could get some sort of BS intel cover just to make it nice and legal." He saw Jii's look, "or maybe not." Tim sat back and asked the bajoran officer, "One question, and can I get an honest answer, what do you really think about Eshar and my decision to get married?"

"Honestly, I think you could be rushing it."

Tim looked a bit crestfallen, and Elaiithin continued.

"However, it's not my place to judge. If the two of you think it's right for you, then more power to you."

Tim grinned, "Jii, I have never been happier then when I'm with her, so I think it's the right thing..... but I know what you're saying."

"A New Program"
by Lieutenant JG Elaiithin Jii

Gamma shift on the Galaxy. Lieutenant jay-gee Elaiithin Jii was seated in his quarters, reviewing the ship's library. A friend of his from the academy, Lieutenant Mark Shute, stationed aboard the U.S.S. Miranda had sent him a book entitled Evermeet. It was a twentieth century Earth novel about a fantasy world known as Faerun. It contained a story about beings known as Elves, and the story very richly told a tale of this dying race's last sanctuary.

To say this story intruiged Elaiithin would be an understatement. Researching deeper into the ship's library, he discovered literally hundreds of novels on the subject. An idea occured, and he headed down to Holodeck 6, wich was not being used.

"Computer" he asked. "Compile all human novels with the keyword "Faerun", marked in my personal files, into the holographic matrix. Set start location as the city of Waterdeep, and participants as.." Elaiithin searched his memory again for the name of the secret agents of good in the books. "Harpers."

[Working..] The computer replied. [ Program compiled. Please select a name]

"Computer, Save as "Elaiithin-Faerun One". Replicate the appropriate clothing, green and browns, and a human longsword and scabbard."

[Acknowledged.]

The clothing and requested weapon appeared on the holodeck floor. Shirking his uniform, Elaiithin donned them, and ordered the program to begin.

And then he was in an entirely different world. Midievel architecture dominated, but unusual creatures were everywhere. Elaiithin recognized them from the descriptions in the books. Elves, Humans, Dwarves, halflings, and a variety of others.

In an alleyway, as Elaiithin passed, he heard screaming. A young nobleman lay slain, with creatures in dark clothing advancing upon a well dressed woman.

There were four of them, and one was holdy a bloody dagger over the nobleman.

Elaiithin smiled. This was going to be fun.

Jii strolled into the alleyway, drawing his sword as he went. "Back away" he said simply. The four assailants turned their heads toward him.

"Mind your own business." One of them replied.

"I'm making this my business. Back away from the woman, and I'll let you live."

The seemed to amuse the thugs. Their apparent leader motioned for two of them to attack Elaiithin. The pair advanced, and again, Elaiithin just grinned. He brought his sword up in a sidesweep that caught the assailant on the right by surprise, and succeeded burying his weapon deep in the man's midsection. His partner, a little more wary, drew a rusty longsword of his own, and approached Elaiithin from a distance.

The two began a face off. It should be noted that Elaiithin learned how to handle a human sword when he was in the Academy's thespian society. Rotan's tutelage had made him simply that much more proficient, that much more deadly, with the ancient weapon.

Metal clanged against metal, and finally, Elaiithin slipped in under the other's guard. His sword slid in between the third and forth rib, and the man slumped immediately.

In concentrating on his victory, Elaiithin forgot about the other two entirely.

Therefore, when the dagger came zooming towards his back, and Elaiithin felt an impact, Jii didn't know what hit him. The holoprogram, at that point, shut down.

"Computer, what happened?" the puzzeled bajoran asked.

[The program ends upon the death of the participants]

"Dammit." Elaiithin said. Have to be more careful next time.....

“Goodbye”
by LtCmdr. Hunter McKenzie
Chief Tactical Officer, USS Galaxy

Mac sat in his quarters, the glow of his computer screen the only illumination in the darkened room. He had lain in bed for several hours unable to sleep, even though the Galaxy was now in the relative safety of Starbase 61. One lingering thought had hung in the back of his mind and it was this that brought him to the computer.

“Computer. Display Historical entry for battle of Narendra III.” Asked Mac hesitantly

“Please state racial parameters,” responded Starfleet’s generic computer voice.

“Klingon, Federation and Romulan..”

“Romulan additions may be in error due to hostilities present at time of report.” Answered the computer.

“That’s ok…run it” snapped Mac…

As the various accounts of the battle scrolled across the screen, Mac began to see a single thread that was current throughout. Even the Romulans had been amazed that a ship, even one as badly damaged as the Enterprise-C had been, had been able to take out not one, but two Warbirds not to mention several smaller Snipe-B frigates. The Klingons had been so impressed with the Federation ship that songs had been sung in its honor. These songs were to be the basis for the current relationship that existed today. It appeared to Mac that the only way the Enterprise –C could have won that battle was to have the Excelsior and the Galaxy participate the way they had. The Ent-C simply hadn’t been in good enough condition to inflict those losses. Mac ordered the screen switched off as the soft ambient light lit the corners of the room,

“Computer run program Tasha-Risa, Code Mac-12b24, display image in the 4” space over my desk.”

Mac watched a s a picture of Lt. Tasha Yar illuminated the area above his desk. Mac watched as the figure floated silently in space. The Hologram had been taken the night before they both left Risa and Mac had carried it ever since. Tasha stood in the yellow and black of Security and the mischievous grin and sparkling eyes still seemed to speak volumes to Mac. The thoughts of the alternate Tasha had came unbidden into his mind. She had been the same forceful, intense, passionate woman that Mac had met on Risa, but below that had been a hardness that his Tasha hadn’t developed. The Alternate Yar had allowed Mac to get past the feelings he still had for Tasha...ones that he had never fully spoken to her. The loss of the Alt-Tasha had given Mac the ability to do what he needed to do…move on. A growl from D’Akana alerted Mac to the fact that K’Eyt was stirring. Mac stood and walked toward the Bedroom, stopping outside the door. Turning he took on last look at the hologram.

“Computer. Close and delete program.” Whispered Mac as he stepped in to the room.

Lt. Commander Hunter McKenzie, Chief Tactical Officer, USS Galaxy
ICQ 6758283

"Phasers and Wedding Bells"
Lt.(jg)Tim O'Connell (the other engaged guy)
Ensign Elaine O'Hare (The new model meat truck)

==deck 38 phaser range==

Tim was pacing by the range waiting for Elaine to show up, why the hell did she transfer anyway, and to security anyway, and what was it with the mental state of this crew that resulted in counselors wanting weapons, first Lex now Elaine. Tim checked his chronomter, she's running late, I might as well get some pracitce in...Just then the doors opened and Elaine walked in, Tim frowned at her, "You're late Ensign, I hope this won't be a practice of yours."

O'Hare gave Tim a dirty look.

"I had a confrontation with a new security lunkhead. He kept me waiting. Anyway, what are with we training with? Type 1,2,3, or 4 phaser? Personally, I would like to handle the type 4 Compressed Phaser rifle as it's commonly known that has a gyrostabilizer, a larger energy reserve, an elaborate targeting system, and small isolinear artificial intelligence unit that controls the energy discharge. But, I realize that I have to start out at the beginning. Shall we get started Lt?" Elaine gave a no nonsense, don't play with me type of look as she waited for Tim's response.

Tim responded with a dead pan expression," the type 4 is the phaser cannon we will be practicing with a type 3b compression phaser rifle, step in and rememebr you are not a counselor any more so don't ask the targets how they feel after you shoot them," he grinned and set the first training program with movingTargets and the weapon the type 3b phaser rifle... "Begin when ready Ensign." he said. Elaine smirked once more at Tim. Grabbing the phaser, she leaned back with her feet apart ready to aim and fire. The bullseye's started to move in a randome pattern. Focusing her concentration, she ended the session hitting 80% of the targets. Standing straight up after she was finished, Elaine grimaced. "Damn."

O'Hare turned back to Tim with a dissapointed look on her face.

"I'm a little rusty."

Tim looked at her his eyes showed a glimmer of humor. "Impressive, very impressive, you beat Neil's high score by 2 and mine by 4"

"Really? That doesn't make a whole lot of sense,Tim. Are you sure you didn't rig those things to blink when I didn't shoot them?" O'Hare looked puzzled.

Tim smiled at Elaine, "No I didn't you did all that on your own. Very good shooting Tex."

"Just so you know, I'm not in competition with you guys, or anyone else from the department. My goal is to get to the point where you would trust me with your life, if it ever came down to it. And also to pass this regimen Sunder gave me."

Tim looked at her and replied, "That is exactly what I hoped you would say because if you had treated this as a competition I would have serious reservations about your decision to transfer. As for us trusting you with our lives, this goes a long way. As for Sunder... You'll do fine. I'll help you with your studies. If you help me get this wedding planned deal?" he asked extending his hand.

O'Hare took his hand and shook it firmily. "Agreed Lt. Now, what about these wedding plans of yours?"

Tim smiled and said, "Well she's talking to her parents, she does want you to stand up though, All I know is I show up on time and sober with the ring.... and don't mess up my lines." They left the phaser range and headed out to the turbo lift, "Besides, you need to tell me what heppened with you and Neil?"

Elaine looked at Tim and blushed.

"Things went rather well I'd say. After he finished bumping into my lamp, we talked about how we felt."

"Oh yeah? Anything else?" Tim raised his eyebrows, hoping to get the real scoop.

Elaine lowered her head, averting his gaze. "Not really." She was quiet, not wanting to divulge the personal information.

"Come on Elaine, did he at least kiss you?"

"Tim!"

"Well???" Tim drew the word out....making sound like he needed to know.

"Yeah."

"Allright!"

O'Hare just stood there, embarrassed to death. "Oh come on now. It's okay. So, you didn't bite each other?"

"TIM!" Elaine reached over and belted him on the shoulder, hard

"Ouch! Geez woman!" Tim smiled at Elaine, rubbing his arm.

"Spare me Tim." O'Hare said sarcastically

"There's my girl back. Who's the new security guy?"

"Oh, a turd named Ensign Kale Danal."

Tim turned to her and caught her attention. "A turd?"

"Nevermind, a term my father uses."

"Uh, Elaine. Do you know he's a full Betazoid?" Tim raised his eyebrows.

"WHAT? Well, he didn't say anything....." O'Hare started chuckling.

"What? What did you think?" Tim said smiling

"Oh, just my usual sarcastic thoughts." Elaine said, laughing out loud now

"I'm going to have fun with that guy."

"Elaine......." Tim sounded like he was cautioning the ensign.

"Tim......" Elaine looked at him and smiled.

Tim escorted Elaine back to her quarters and went about his business.

"Wars Darkest Face!"
By: Lieutenant Jg. Rotan Heratta
Security - USS Galaxy

"Activate holoprogram Elaiithin-Faerun One." Rotan ordered in his usual baritone as he stood outside the doors too Holodeck six.

After talking with Jii about his latest hobby..he thought he would give his friends program a try. For his first run, he had gone all out..at Elaiithin's insistence. Rotan stood before the doors to the holodeck garbed in heavy black full body armor. Huge hammered plates of heavy metal were laced together and finished off by a full outfit of chainmail armor. Across his back was slung a huge two-handed sword, its hilt decorated with the twisted emblem of a darkened skull. Over the armored suit..a huge black cloak also displaying the skull theme completed his period garb.

"Program ready." Came the computers neutral female reply.

Rotan stepped through the doors and scanned the majestic view that surrounded him. The computer had recreated the image of a military encampment, where a large army had gathered under the midnight sky...huddled around great bonfires. Huge canopy tents had been erected to provide quarters for the army's Military command near the center of the gathered force. It was near the greatest of these tents that Heratta had entered the scene.

Stepping from its guard post at the tent flap that served as its entrance, the grotesque form of a seven foot humanoid warrior Hissed its warning toward him.

"Who dares disturb the Demon-Lord Rabban!" The Hyena-headed Dog warrior barked at him through a barely understandable growl.

"Tell him..Rotan Heratta..of Clan Heratta demands audience!" Rotan grabbed the creature by the scruff of its hairy neck as he growled back in reply. His show of strength immediately registering on the warriors twisted face.

"A moment..Lord..a moment." It whined back..loosing all nerve.

Disappearing within the tent flap..the creature was gone for only an instant before reappearing. "Lord Rabban will see you now." It barked.

"Very well.." Rotan replied as he pushed the creature asside..entering the tent.

*I'm going to enjoy this program very much.* Heratta thought to himself as he entered. Instantly his eyes had adjusted to the gloom within.

Toward the back of the pavilion had been erected a makeshift throne, a great chair decorated with carved bone and leering human skulls. Two torch-staffs burned on each side of the blood caked chair..sheading light throughout the great tent. Positioned before the great throne was a large table, across which was strewn several ancient maps. Standing in front of the table, studying the maps was a lone figure.

The creature was a being cut from the nightmares of children. The monster was over eight-feet tall, its body a chiseled work of overlapping muscle covered over by a dark leathery hide. Its head was only vaguely humanoid, with the great curved horns of a ram arching up and back. Its eyes were pits of red glowing fire as he lifted its gaze toward Rotan and open its gaping fang filled maw.

"You have come at last.." It hissed in a voice laced with hidden power.

"Yes. Though the journey was long." Rotan replied.

"How many men have you brought with you?" Rabban asked, turning its attention back toward the maps spread across the table.

"A legion of my best." He replied, after studying the creature for a moment. Rabban was indeed..impressive.

"A legion...good. We will need at least that many more..for what I have planned." The nightmarish creature moved with unreal grace as it lifted one of the maps and played to hold it toward the light. "We will strike in one hours time." Rabban offered.

"Waterdeep will be no match for us." Rotan growled in reply.

Outside..the rain began and the sound of booming thunder rolled across the horizon...

Reporting for Duty
By: Ensign Kale Danal
Security Officer, USS Galaxy

Scene: Ensign Kale Danal's Quarters, USS Galaxy

Kale walked in to his quarters and looked around, it was rather small but he liked small less space he had to keep clean. Walking over to the bed he placed his duffle bag, he quickly unpacked and pulled out a uniform and put it on.

Walking over to the mirror he thought about the woman he met coming on board, ~She was rather rude, but I guess she that being a former counselor I was surprised by her actions. I expected more from her, will now I know what to expect from Ensign O'Hare~ he thought.

Turning he placed the commbadge on his uniform and walked over to his duffle bag and picked up his transfer padd, turning he walked out of the quarters.

Walking down the corridor he looked at the personal moving around the corridor, it was rather impressive in all but this was due to him being on a starbase for so long.

Entering the turbolift, "Lt. Com. Ursa Sunder's Office".

As the lift took off Kale wondered what the security chief would be like, this was a new field for him being mostly majored in computer security was a second major he took while attending the academy. Seconds later the doors flew open and he walked out and down the corridor, coming up on Sunder's office he took a deep breath and chimed the door.

The doors opened and Kale walked in and saluted, "Ensign Kale Danal report for duty, Sir!".

Family concerns
Lt(jg) Tim O'Connell

Tim O'Connell walked in to his fiancee's quarters. She was sitting at her desk apparantly communicating with someone, her brown eyes were hard and she was speaking angrily in trill to the screen . Tim flashed her a look of concern and sat on the couch.

She said some more words and ended the transmission. Tim looked at her with concern in his eyes, "What's wrong Eshar?" he asked.

She looked at him, frustration evindent on her face, "it's my mother, she thinks I'm ruining my life by not going throught with the arrainged marraige."

Tim looked very confused, "I thought Trills didn't arrainge marriages?"

She moved over to the couch sitting by him, "Usually they don't but my family is a bit more conservative, religion wise. So the parents get to set up the wedding. She was not happy, but I told her that it was my life and I would spend it with whoever I want to spend it with.,"

Tim reached over and took her hand in his, "is she going to be OK with it?" She nodded, "it'll just take time, and she won't attend the wedding with out a traditional courtship."

"how long is that?" "5 years."

"I don't think so, as much as I love honoring tradition, I couldn't wait that long to get married to you, I think Neil and Elaine would beat us down the altar at that rate."

Eshar giggled, "Yea they aren't beating us anywhere, so that's out. Maybe we'll just get married on shoreleave, grab 2 wittnesses and go."

Tim looked at her and grinned, "Not a bad idea, might be fun." He reached out his hand and ran it along the row of spots framing her face. "You are a wicked woman Ms Jaron."

She smiles and replied, "exactly and that's why you love me." He nodded and smiled, "exactly why." She moved over to him and snuggled in with him, he put his arms around her as they sat together enjoying the quiet.

"Old Flames Die Down"
by Kalln and Anna and an unfortunate Susanna

***Enterprise C, Mess Hall, just off shift***

Anna had finally managed to get Kalln to tell her what was going on. In his own words:

"You know what I've been telling you about my mating season, in about a hundred years time? Well back on Starbase 5 we had a chemical leak in the labs which set off my biological clock early. You should have seen me. You think a Vulcan in Pon Farr is bad? "Anyway, Susanna was the one who volunteered to stop me. I won't go into the details, but suffice it to say the contraceptives were particularly strong. "Then, after a bit of difficulty, she shipped out on the Enterprise-C. I, of course, never saw her again."

They stood now, Kalln and Anna, in the corner of the Enterprise-C's mess hall (Ambassador-class ships not being fitted with a ten-forward bar, and this one not having a handy Rick's Cafe), and saw Susanna in the corner at a table.

'Are you ready to go see her?' asked Kalln.

"I am." Anna replied before studying her close friend and lover. "But are you ready? I sense you would rather be facing a squad of Jem'Hadar soldiers than seeing her again."

Kalln sighed while twitching his tail nervously behind him. "This is reopening some old wounds I thought that time healed over."

"You loved her, didn't you?"

The huge lizard look hesitantly over to Anna before realizing that she was just asking an honest question. "We were just friends and close colleagues or so I thought. I just didn't know how good of a friend she was until that accident. She saved me, I would had eventually died if she didn't..."

As Kalln's voice trailed off, Anna gently took hold of his upper arm saying softly. "Lets go and see her."

The Gnalish Elt nodded to his human companion and the two of them made their way to Susanna's table. The young Ensign looked up from her drink in time to see them approaching.

"Kalln!" She smiled sweetly to him before noticing his female friend.

'Hello Susanna,' said Kalln, his voice steady, 'This is Anna Gartner, my, er, companion.'

'Girlfriend,' chimed in Anna.

'Oh,' said Susanna, 'Well I suppose that's for the best. You'd better have a seat.'

The lizard and the tiny blonde plopped themselves down on the chairs opposite.

'How has life been treating you?' asked Susanna.

'So-so,' said Kalln, 'I won't tell you the specifics - I can't really - but things have been much the same in recent years as they always have. I got court-martialled too.'

'Oh well, never mind,' said Susanna brightly, 'So Anna, tell me about Kalln as you know him.'

'Ah,' said Anna, 'Well, I discovered that he's a passionate lover. During our first roll under the sheet, I was just expecting rough caveman lovemaking.'

Kalln's dark eyes nearly popped out of his head. This was completely unexpected, he hoped that Susanna wouldn't be too offended by Anna's behavior...

"I know what you mean." The young Ensign replied. "When I 'volunteered' to help Kalln after he had his... accident, he behaved like a perfect gentlemen, even in his deteriorating state." She then smiled over to the Gnalish Elt who's tail was twitching more nervously by the second. "Afterwards he was racked by guilt and couldn't stop apologizing. I felt the urge to take a swing at him if he didn't stop. I knew what I was doing and I couldn't stand to watch him die."

"He may not look it but he's a real romantic at heart." Anna commented.

"Did he ever gave you those sad puppy dog eyes?" Susanna asked.

"Yeah." Anna smiled. "He tried it a few times to lure me to stay in bed for a while longer or to get into my shower with me. I will admit it's quite effective."

Kalln just sat there listening while completely dumb- founded by the incredible ease at the way the two women talked about him. Anna and Susanna hadn't been introduce for more than five minutes and they were discussing very intimate details about him.

Susanna looked at both him and Anna. "You two sleep together often?"

Kalln started to open his mouth to say it's a private matter when Anna spoke first laughing girlishly. "Oh, almost every night. We can't get enough of each other."

The helpless Gnalish Elt silently groan inward wishing for a red alert, an attacking Jem'Hadar boarding party, a meteorite storm, a hull breach... Anything to stop this! He didn't even dare to wonder if this conservation could get any worse...

"So Anna, what do you like most about Kalln?"

The security officer thought Susanna's question over carefully before answering with a broad grin. "His tongue."

'HARUMPH!' coughed Kalln loudly and suddenly, making the two girls jump, 'Oh, sorry about that. I say, did you hear about the, um, the, um, the weather? Fascinating stuff. Um...'

Anna smiled a sweet smile, full of honey-coated venom, 'Susanna, I do believe Kalln is a little embarrassed!'

'The poor thing,' said Susanna soothingly, 'Maybe he'd like us to stop?'

Anna chuckled. Susanna said, 'So, about the tongue?'

The sound of Kalln's head colliding with the tabletop only briefly interrupted the little chat.

Half an hour later, Kalln gave Susanna a heartfelt farewell, knowing that she wasn't coming back. Narenda III was where she was to die. The Romulan records showed it. At least they were parting happy.

Anna helped him away as they made ready to return to the Galaxy for the battle.

"Memories of Horror"
By Lt.Jg.Foxtrot
Security Officer

*******Ten-Forward********

After staring out the windowinto outer-space for hours, Fox realizedthe bottle of scotch was gone. He smiled at the fact he drank it all without notice and to the fact he was nurseing a good buzz.

"Can I get you anything else, sir?" the waitress asked.

"Company, my friends, my Friends, and another bottle of scotch, please." Fox stated very sarcasticly.

"I'll see what I can find you in a way of a drink." she stated very suprised like.

Fox sat back down at the table and began to look over the datapad of security personel again.

********Bridge of the USS Thunderchild********

"Transfer all power to the shields!" the captain belted out.

"Sir, A volley of torpedos are incoming!" Tactical said quickly.

The ship shook violentlyfrom the impact of the torpedos. A blastthrew the helmsman from his seat and killed him. Again the ship shook horrendously. Fox sprang from his position and took over the helm. Fox began to use every tactical manuever he knew to keep the ship alive.

"Foxtrot, you keep us alive until some kind of help arrives!" The Captain again ordered.

"Sir, I am detecting three other starships on the way in." Ops yelled.

"Fox, start heading for those ships, hopefully we can draw that ship into there range quicker!" The captain ordered with a sound of worry in his voice.

"Its confirmed sir, Two Federation ships and one Klingon ship." Ops informed there captain.

(((((((USS Thunderchild this is the USS Sumack, We are here to assist and get you out of here!))))))))

"Hail them and let them know are situation and status!" The captain quickly said, coughing visciosly.

"Sir, We are now behind the other ships and a safe distance away from the Dominion ship." Fox said as he spun his chair around to see the captain.

Thats when Fox realized why it had gotten so quiet. The Captain had been injured and bled to death during the skirmish. A feeling unlike any other could be felt on the bridge now. Nobody moved or said a thing, until the silence was finally broken.

"The Dominion ship has been destroye. The Sumack is preparing to put us in tyractor beam lock and tow us back home. I have informed them of the situation and they are sending over repair teams to help and medical personel. The Captain is also coming to take command until we reach the nearest starbase." Ops informed the bridge crew but nobody really heard him.

Two days Later in Ten-Forward after all the Formalities and funerals, Fox sat in what was left of Ten-Forward. Tables knocked over and chairs everywhere. Will had been able to find a bottle of something, he didnt lknow what unbroken and slowly sat and sipped away at it. He picked up the pad in front of him and looked over his Transfer orders. He smiled at the fact he was being sent back to the USS Galaxy. Then Lt.Jg. Schlueter and Dr. Tavon sat down with him.

"We knew we would find youn here Fox." Tavon stated.

"Yeah you know me, a person of great excitement am I." Fox sarcasticly stated.

"Whats that your looking at, Fox?" Schlueter asked with that cute smile she always gave him.

"My Transfer orders, I am going back to the Galaxy." Fox smirked.

"They are sending me back to starfleet medical headquarters for some training seminars." Tavon said with mock excitement.

"I am still waiting to hear about my new assignment, I beleive they are going to decommission the Thunderchild, So I will probably go home for a little while." Schlueter stated.

"Well then a toast to our futurs in starfleet and our friendship may they both last forever!" Tavon toasted.

********Ten-Forward of the USS Galaxy*********

Will fumbled with the empty glass in his hands. He then stood up and headed for the door. The door opened up and he stopped and stood there for a moment.

"I hope they are happy and safe." Will thought to himself. He then turned and left.

Based on STAR TREK created by Gene Roddenberry
Written by Lieutenant (jg) Suder
Engineer

"Fountain Of Answers And Ideas"

Suder pried open a conduit panel and glanced inside. The circuitry had burned out. The fellow engineer who he had traveled to Engineering with in the morning arrived with an engineering kit.

"Let's get started shall we?" Ensign Than asked with another smile on her face.

"Agreed." Suder said calmy positioning himself next to the conduit in the Jeffry's Tube.

"So what do you think of the Borg?" she asked attempting to start a conversation.

"Borg. Cyborg species from the Delta Quadrant. Transwarp capabilities. Assimilation process to expand their knowledge of perfection in hopes of becoming-"

"I asked what you thought of them, not a computerized database essay on them." Than said.

"I try not to think of them." Suder replied.

"OK then, relationships?"

"On the ship, off the ship, or just in general?" Suder asked.

"On the ship." Than replied.

"I try not to think of that either. One personal bad experience, several bad observations, a few mind crumbling empathic feelings."

"Meaning?" Than asked.

Suder stopped working, looked at Than and then continued. "Just as a relationship was developing, she was killed. Then there was Casey and Miran, Casey and Bancroft, Bancroft and... Benedict, Benedict and-"

"I get the picture. So what's the deal with Benedict then? The tone in your voice turned to hatred when you said his name?" Than asked.

"Well, I think he knew Lon." Suder replied.

"Lon?"

"My brother."

Knowing that she had hit a nerve, Than decided to move on to the next question. "Right, how about Velocity Disk?"

"Good game. Challenging. I guess it depends who you play against." Suder said.

"Dead Drop Seventeen."

"Slamming to the ground after jumping off the wall as the disk is in pursuit and then rolling backwards to gain distance for an accurate shot."

"Well, I beginning to think your a fountain of information."

"Only answers and ideas, I only do information on the weekends." Suder with a hint of sarcasm. It was enough to make Than laugh, but then she had never been hard to make laugh. But Suder, well, Suder hadn't laughed in a few months now. There was something under that Vulcan-wannabe-but-can-make-jokes-surface.

"Suder, I think I'm going to have to give you a game of Velocity in about, five hours." Than said.

"I can take four minutes out of my day to humilate another ego." Suder said. Than could see the smile under the surface of Suder's face. Although he was physically depressed, his mind was very active.

“Back to the Grind”
By LtCmdr. Hunter McKenzie
Chief Tactical Officer, USS Galaxy

Mac rubbed his eye s he looked over the latest tactical analysis reports from Starfleet tactical. The battle in which the Defiant had been lost was very disturbing. Everyone expected the Breen joining the Dominion to have an effect, but this new energy-dampening weapon was some different. Not only did the Federation not have any defenses against it; Starfleet didn’t know where to begin to look. Not only was the Defiant a huge loss due to its use as a testing platform, but it also had the only working Cloaking device in Starfleet…

“…With the exception of the ones Greer built.” Grinned Mac to himself.

But these were problems that Starfleet as a whole had; Mac had more immediate ones.

“Computer. Record new message.”

=/\= Working.=/\= replied the ships computer.

All Tactical Officers assigned USS Galaxy.

There will be a mandatory meeting of all tactical officers in the Tactical Office, at 1900hrs tomorrow. The only exception to this meeting will be Ensign Kamin who is manning the TacOps center and Lt.(jg) Groom on the bridge. Any problems may be addressed to me and the only other problem that may develop will be one that involves the Excelsior, itself.

Lt. Commander Hunter McKenzie. Chief Tactical Officer, USS Galaxy

Mac finished and had the message sent to all of his section and copies to Ops. His training plans had been placed on hold due to the Excelsior crisis and he hoped he could get this done while they were still at the Starbase. The Dominion now had a significant ally in the Breen and Mac was going to make sure that his section was up to the test. Pushing aside the training plans, Mac picked up the invitation to the Casey’s dinner party. According to the PADD, Casey’s sister, Alexa was on board serving as a cadet trainee.

Although he didn’t approve of a lot of the things Casey did. Mac still respected the man for his ideals. What Casey needed was a lesson in humility, before his ego got him into a mess that the even the name “Casey” couldn’t get him out of. Mac sent a quick reply to Casey and then a note to K’Eyt to check her schedule. Seeing that no more PADD’s awaited, Mac stood and headed to retrieve D’Akana from K’Eyt’s quarters. They had an appointment on Holodeck 3 with several wild voles.

Lt. Commander Hunter McKenzie, Chief Tactical Officer, USS Galaxy
ICQ 6758283

"New Chief of Science"
by Lt Commander Steven Graves and Captain Lee Price

The Starfleet Lieutenant Commander rematerialized on to the transporter pad in Transport One of the USS Galaxy. At the other end of the small room was a transporter chief operating the controls but there was no sign of anyone else there to pass on any orders or even welcome him to the ship. He at least remembered his former commanding officer have making the effort to greet each new crew member, especially the senior staff, when they first reported on board.

Perhaps the Captain was urgently needed elsewhere? Then again, the Galaxy-class vessel was docked at Starbase 61 for a standard crew rotation, some repairs to the hull and primary systems, and it was likely that any minor hiccup could be managed by the Executive Officer. The only orders he received were from Admiral Braggits and they were to report to the Galaxy as soon as he arrived.

"Good morning sir. The Captain has asked that you report to his Ready Room as soon as you beamed onboard." Specialist Treudeux said as she logged to transporter cycle in to the ship's computer.

'Commander Graves stepped off the transporter pad and gave the transporter chief an expression that made him look a little lost. "Thanks."

Steven walked out of Transporter Room One and made his way to the nearest turbolift. He was reasonably familiar with the schematics of the Galaxy-class starship but it had been a while since he had been aboard one.

Pressing a button on the turbolift panel he waited for a carriage to arrive. He didn't have to wait long and the doors opened. "Bridge." he said as he backed up to the inner wall of the turbolift. The trip was short but he already felt a little uneasy about this new assignment.

The turbolift doors opened and revealed the command center of the USS Galaxy. Walking out he took a brief moment to glance around at the different duty stations and the people who were serving there. He was not sure whether it was their normal assignments, being at a starbase and all, but he tried to make an effort to memorize their faces for future references.

Graves walked down the ramp, passed the tactical station, and to the door which led him to the Captain office -- the Ready Room. Pressing the door chime he waited for a response from the Captain before he entered.

["Come."] came the sound of a man's voice said. The accent was one that the scientist was unfamiliar with so he had figured it was his new Captain.

The doors opened and Steven walked in to find the command officer sitting behind his desk, reviewing something on his desktop console. "Lieutenant Commander Steven Graves reporting as ordered sir." he said, approaching the Captain's desk and standing at attention.

Lee leaned back in to his chair and gave the Lieutenant Commander a quick look over. So this was the man that Starfleet was sending to replace 'Commander Erikson.

"Lieutenant Commander Steven Alan Graves -- born Toronto, Earth, 2341. Second child of Alan and Madison graves. Graduated from Starfleet Academy in 2361. Served as a science officer on Starbase 133 and the USS Adirondack before being transferred to the USS Ranger. Former Assistant Chief Science Officer of the USS Tecumseh, temporarily assigned to the Vaytan Solar observatory, returned to standard duties on the Tecumseh. Transferred to the USS Windsor as their Chief Science Officer. Decorated on two separate occasions by Starfleet. Reprimanded by a superior officers on three separate occasions. Married, one daughter." Captain Price recited as he looked at his official Starfleet records.

'Commander Graves felt a little awkward. The way the Captain went through his record made him feel as if he was trying to imply something that he had somehow missed. "That sounds about right, sir."

"Well 'Commander, your credentials are certainly in order 'mate." Lee declared deactivating his computer monitor and leaning back in his chair. With a gesture of his hand, Captain Price motioned to the seats before his desk, "'ave a seat 'Commander. And tell me, will your family be joining you here on board the Galaxy?"

Graves adjusted the chair as he sat down. "Yes sir. Catherine had some work to finish up on board the Windsor before joining me with our daughter."

Lee nodded, "The Galaxy has a fine educational department 'Commander. I'm sure your daughter will enjoy her stay here."

"They are going to catch a shuttle and should be able to rendezvous with the Galaxy in a few days. Starbase 61 is quite a ways out." Graves explained making small talk.

"Actually, the repairs to the Galaxy are nearly complete. I've secured permission to take the ship out on a shake down run back to the planet Tellar. A couple on board are having a wedding there in the next few days. So we may be able to meet up with the Windsor along the way." Captain Price explained.

"I'm sure that will make my wife happy sir." Graves commented, still feeling a little awkward.

"So 'Commander, what made you decide to take this assignment on board the Galaxy?" Lee asked.

"A number of reasons actually sir." Graves began, "The fact that it was offered to me was one of them. The spaciousness of a Galaxy Class vessel was another. "

Lee nodded. He didn't know what to think of this officer that was sitting across from him. He seemed like a nice enough bloke, but still, there was something in the back of the Captain's mind that kept nagging at him. It was telling him that Graves was not what he appeared to be, and that he was likely sent on this assignment to keep an eye on the Captain more than to serve as Chief Scientist.

"Well, the Galaxy is a fine ship and she has a bonzer crew. I think you'll find that serving on board this starship is a pleasant experience, both on and off duty for yourself and your family 'mate. 'ave you ever been on board a Galaxy class starship before 'Commander?"

"Yes sir. While at Earth Station McKinley I had the opportunity to tour the Venture. Though that was a few years ago." Graves explained.

Rising out of his chair, Lee stood. "Well, why don't we take a bit of a walk about and show you the ship 'mate? I'd like to introduce you to a few members of the crew you'll be working with on a day to day basis."

"That would be great Captain." Graves agreed standing with the Captain. Glancing around the Captain's ready room the Lieutenant Commander took note of the odd decorations and knick knacks scattered about. A Klingon d'k tahg on his desk. A Confederate flag decorating the wall behind the Captain's desk. A stuffed Koala sitting on the table near a boomerang. It was nothing like the 'Commander would have expected.

"Fair dinkum 'mate. Let's start with the bridge then. Shall we?" Lee motioned towards the door.

Graves nodded and lead the way out of the Captain's ready room, with Captain Price by his side.

"Changing of the Guard"
by Lt. Commanders Ronni Morris and Greer Erikson
Science Officers, USS Galaxy

Ronni bit her bottom lip to keep it from quivering. She was trying to put on a brave face, but she wasn't doing very well. She had a headache, compounded by this stress.

"Greer, take your time, but come back as soon as you can." she said softly. The leaves in the arboretum rustled softly as the small stream trickled by.

"I wish I could say how long it is going to be Ronni." he said. He didn't add that it could be forever. His Talerian encaphalitis is usually always fatal as is progressively deteriorates the synaptic pathways. He didn't want to get her hopes up, but to be honest he didn't know himself.

Ronni looked into his eyes and said, "I am a realist. If it looks like things are going to be . . . bad, please call me. I will come running." She took him by the hand and said, "I want my sister Kra'lana to look at you. She is on Earth now, working at Starfleet Medical. She is the Chief of Medicine of Viral Immunology. I don't know if she can do anything, but I would feel better about it." She raised his hand to her lips and she kissed his wrist and palm.

Greer placed his hand against her blue cheek. "I don't know if I will be going to Earth, but we'll see. I'm sure I'll end up there eventually, and if I do, be assured I'll go and see her" he said.

It was time to be going. Without a word, the two got up and headed for the transporter room. His luggage would be transferred from his quarters, to his waiting shuttle at Starbase 61. They walked hand in hand without saying a word.

In the transporter room, they waited quietly. The Transporter Chief said, "Lieutenant Commander Steven Alan Graves is standing by Captain." Ronni looked at Greer with a puzzled look. "Who is he?" she said. Greer shrugged his shoulders. A moment later the Captain arrived. He pulled up short when he saw Greer and Ronni.

Captain Price came over and said, "Lt. Commander Morris, can I speak to you for a moment." he said, taking her to one side so Greer could not hear, "it seems a new Chief Science Officer has been transferred to the ship. You will report to him." He understood the shocked look on her faces. The Captain confided, "and watch him closely."

Trying to hide her shock, the transporter chief received the signal that Greer could beam over to the Starbase. Looking down at her from the transporter pad he gave her a reassuring smile. One last time he bent down and gave her a kiss. They may just be friends now, but he still cared deeply for her. The tears started to flow as they kissed. Greer then picked up his shoulder case and went up to the transporters. He gave her a brave smile and he disappeared in a cloud of blue sparkles.

The Captain put his hand on her shoulder and gave her a comforting smile. He then said, "It's all right Ronni."

"Well folks," Greer said with a sense of dramatic flare, "until we meet again." Ronni nodded quickly as she wiped her eyes. Raising her hand she gave him a quick wave. All he could do was smile back at her. "Ready chief."

The shimmering blue of the transporter dematerialized the Lieutenant Commander as Ronni and the Captain looked on. As the process started he felt sadden by Ronni's expression, but he knew it wouldn't be the last time he saw her. He was certain of that.

"Back To Back."

Lt. Benedict T'Kal
Tactical Officer

Lt. (jg) Mike Marc
Tactical Officer
USS Galaxy

Benedict tapped the commands into the interface and activated the scenario. He turned to Mike Marc and nodded. They were standing outside Holodeck 4 and the program was one of the Security Training Simulations that were required as skill maintenance for the Tactical department.

They were taking them in pairs - the other Tactical Officers were facing similar scenarios - actually it was all part of a single scenario - where the officers responded to the security crisis in teams of two. The isolation of each pair served to strengthen the team support for them - they basically knew they only had each other to rely on - and it was at a sufficiently high level that it was going to be difficult.

The doors opened as the computer said, "Program Ready."

Both officers stepped in. The scenario was supposed to be some kind of security emergency - but that was all they knew about it. Benedict smiled at Mike Marc and the blonde officer grinned back. They seemed to be in a corridor - a ship based scenario and the LCARS on the wall showed it to be the Galaxy.

Benedict noted that he now carried a standard issue Mark II Phaser and a tricorder - they were also on deck ten. Down the corridor was the central computer core. Ten Forward was the opposite direction and the Escape Pods were circling the deck.

Everything seemed to be quiet.

Mike took his tricoder and began to scan the territory. Suddenly he saw that there were movements off to the left. Access was via turbo lift to the Main Core, but there were also several power systems adjacent to the computer complex. The movement emanated from one of these. Mike took his phaser in to his hand.

"Benedict, let's check that way. I think we have a guest there." Said Mike and he stepped forward toward the junction.

They walked cautiously to the room that Mike indicated with the Tricorder.

Benedict stepped up to the door and stood on the left side. Mike stood to the right and pressed the entry button and the door smoothly opened. Mike entered the room and held his phaser before him. He was greeted by the sight of a Cardassian.

The soldier was kneeling beside a plasma conduit and attaching a small disc-like device. He spun toward Mike but was rewarded with a heavy stun blast that hit him in the centre of the chest. The Cardassian went sprawling against the wall.

Benedict covered the corridor as Mike Marc stooped close to the Cardassian and picked up his weapon. The disc was activated and it lay against the conduit - a red LED was cycling around the rim. Mike looked back at Benedict and said, "A bomb. Antimatter Charge - it is live." His Ukranian accent showed his worry.

Benedict stepped into the room and took off his commbadge. He tapped it and spoke. "T'Kal to Transporter room 2 - fix on my commbadge. We have an Antimatter Charge - beam it out and hold it in the transporter buffer - we have Cardassians in the Computer Core." He placed his badge against the device and gave Mike a nod.

"Marc to Transporter Room 2 - energize." The blue haze took the dangerous explosive. The Transporter would hold it safe - it couldn't detonate while it was nothing but energy packets in a transporter buffer - and it could be shuffled from one buffer to another or simply absorbed as raw energy. Or transported elsewhere so wreak havok.

Benedict had used the text book response to the danger - however it left him without a communicator - and more importantly - the tactical database could no longer track him without an internal genetic scan. It left him without an emergancy escape route if he was separated from Marc - so he would have to remain close.

"We need to get to the Core - this might not be the only one." Benedict examined the Cardassian and found a small device attached to his arm. He recognized it immediately - Benedict used to wear one when he was with the Marqui. It hid the wearer from sensors - it seemed the Cardassians were adopting Marqui tactics in this scenario. For a moment he cast his mind back to when he was fighting on Bajor - this whole scenario would be a painful remembrance of those times.

He remembered Alayessa - her deep blue eyes in contrast to her red painted face - glaring at him during his vision. He had a duty. He felt her loss again. When they fought together it was as if they had the same mind - they had been a perfect team. Now she was gone - dead. Killed by a Cardassian. Like the one laying at his feet right now. He looked closely at the face of the soldier and was assaulted with memories - faces of men and women who had died at thier hands. Tortured to death horrifically - like his mother. His head was throbbing again - the headaches were getting worse - interfering with his duty.

Tikaru would not accept that weakness. He had a duty.

Mike Marc was at the door looking at him. Benedict had a hard expression on his face. He put his phaser away. The scenario seemed to change - he was no longer in a holodeck. This no longer a game. He dropped to one knee with his arm held rigid at full extension - his whole body weight focused upon the ridge of his right hand. The Cardassians neck snapped like a dry branch. Benedicts Kiai was savage.

He stood fluidly and turned to Mike Marc. "Move out." He said in a deadly quiet voice.

***

When Mike heard the flat quality of Benedict's voice he glanced at him. Something was wrong with him - he could feel it. His whole demeanor had changed - his eyes were violet ice. When they left the room and moved forward the next junction, Mike found a moment and turned to Benedict. he kept his voice low. "You alright , mate ?". He asked.

Benedict just nodded once. With phaser in hand he examined his own tricorder. The phasers were set on Heavy Stun - aboard ship that was the maximum setting that the safety interlocks would allow. The phasers were controlled via the ships computer to restrict the power level out-put to levels that would not harm the vessel.

Mike looked to his scanner and saw that after next corner there were six Cardassian life forms. He looked toward Benedict and pointed.

"We need to attack them now - if they find us first it will be harder to beat them. I will make that turbo lift near the Cardasians open on our signal, and when those stupid Spoonheads turn towards it we will take them from behind." Whispered Mike.

Benedict gave him a slight smile. He nodded again in silence and moved along the wall to the junction. Mike followed equally silently. As Mike prepared to give the computer his instructions, the turbo lift opened without warning.

The Cardassians turned - their weapons coming up as the startled Starfleet Officer in the lift started to step out. Both Mike Marc and Benedict T'Kal moved simultaneously in the split second before the Cardassians opened fire.

Twin phasers swept the group of Cardassians from behind. They tried to turn to the new threat - but then it was too late. The two Tactical Officers crouched with weapons still aimed at the now unmoving invaders.

The Science Ensign had her hands covering her face as she had faced the six Cardassians - she had thought that she was dead - and now she was shaking - but alive.

Benedict moved swiftly and stepped past her. His mind was focused now. The Cardassian threat would be dealt with. He scooped up two Cardassian Disruptors and tossed one in the direction of Mike Marc. He dialled the setting to kill and holstered his own weapon. He was very familiar with the Cardassian weapons - he'd had to use many of them during his time with the Night Tigers.

He walked casually back to the slumped and heavily stunned soldiers and shot each of them in the head. It was messy.

Mike Marc remained silent - this was a simulation exercise, but Benedict seemed like he was anything but treating this as a simulation. There was a total callousness in his eyes that seemed to silence Marc's questions. Mike knew that Benedict had some kind of history with the Marqui - it was general knowledge - but not the extent of it. Right now it seemed that the Bajoran was exacting some kind of revenge against the simulated enemy - he wasn't leaving any alive to be interrogated. Mike dropped the Cardassian weapon, preferring to stay with his Federation issued weapon.

Benedict traded a look with Marc and made the 'advance with stealth' sign..Mike nodded. Both Starfleet Officers moved forward - the startled Ensign was shoved back into the turbo-lift as Marc told her to get to the Security Deck. The main doors to the Computer Core were right ahead.

Mike took his hand-scanner and began to scan for life forms in the Computer Core. There were two Cardassians near the entrance and three more in the middle of the room. Mike took his phaser in hand and made hand signals to Benedict - indicating the number of enemies in the room. Benedict nodded that he understood.

But before the two officers could begin ther move to attack, a huge Cardassian came through the door. He met Mike face to face. Mike froze for a split second and the Cardassian reacted with instant violence. The huge soldier slammed his elbow into Mike's chest and knocked him toward Benedict - momentarily obscuring Benedict's line of fire. As he was pushed backward, Mikes' foot lashed out and struck the Cardassian across the face. The soldier seemed to shrug it off followed the staggering Tactical Officer with several steps - keeping Benedict on the far side of Marc.

The Cardassians disruptor rifle wasn't clear enough to take a shot and so he slammed it butt first into Mikes' face. If it wasn't for the holodecks' safety protocols, Mike may well have had a broken neck, but the blow was enough to split his lip cause blood to flow.

A second Cardassian appeared in the doorway raising his rifle at Marc. It seemed that the soldier did not take note of Benedict to the side of the door.

"Oh shit!" Screamed Mike and kicked out at the Cardassian once more. His spinning back kick landed in the centre of the Cardassians abdomen, sending the giant sprawling. Mike continued to spin back rising his phaser and fired. It caught the Cardassian full on, but Mike was staring at a rifle.

Benedict moved in a blur. His knife-hand strike shattered the Cardassian rifle before it could be fired, and the second blow struck the soldier just under the juncture between neck and head snapping it cleanly. Both strikes took less than a second in total - Benedict was back behind cover before the Cardassian had fallen - already dead.

Mike crouched and rolled to the other side as three disruptor bolts exploded from inside the room. Benedict couldn't afford to fire the Cardassian weapon into the sensitive computer core - and so he stood the rifle against the wall and removed his phaser. He set it for wide angle beam. He gave Mike Marc a slight smile as several more bolts blasted sections from the corridor wall.

Mike nodded and smiled back. He prepared to roll and fire out of cover as Benedict gave the count. On three, both moved. Benedict dived forward through the door and Mike rolled into the centre and fired past Benedict. It said a lot for the level of training and accuracy of the two officers as Marc fired at the two visible Cardassians - the beams lancing within inches of Benedict's diving body. The two cardassians were slammed backwards.

Benedict fired as he cleared the door and shot the remaining soldier on the other side of the room. Both officers came to rest looking for more targets. There weren't any.

The scenario froze and instantly vanished, leaving the grid pattern of the holodeck behind. Mike Marc climbed to his feet with a broad grin on his face and a small trickle of blood on his lip.

Benedict stared hard at the walls for a moment - seemingly disoriented before he spun on his heel and without a word left the holodeck. Mike Marc frowed at his retreating back. The computer said, "Scenario completed successfully."

" It's not unusual to be loved by anyone... " The words of some long-forgotten crooner wailed out from the computer's hidden audio unit in the office. Sunder had the volume turned up to a level that could be deemed officially annoying. In the wee hours of the morning though, there was usually no-one around to bear witness to Sunder's hidden shame.

He liked Tom Jones.

One of his most hidden private pleasures, Sunder had laboured long and hard to keep this particular vice secret. To hide his love for food - particularly chocolate - was too hard in this ship of gluttons. It was too easy for everyone to discover his chocolate tooth and to dredge forth another element of his private life out into the open. But he was determined that no-one should ever discover his admiration for the 20th century Terran singer from Wales. This was one of his most prized secrets that no-one would ever find.

Thus, he kept the recordings in his office and played them whenever he was assured of complete privacy. He shut the door to his office and told those working in the outer offices that he wasn't to be disturbed. Then it was just him, his work, and Tom Jones crying " What's New, Pussycat? " well into the wee hours of the morning.

He was well into the second allotment of songs when the door to his office swished open, and a tallish humanoid - who was vaguely familiar to Sunder - plowed his way into the office, declaring that he was ready for duty. Dressed in civilian clothing, Sunder had to think for a few seconds before recognizing the man as Kale Dane - the newest additions to the security team. Before this, he was just another photograph on a file.

The music blared on as the man just stood there. Sunder's private retreat interrupted, he signaled for the computer to cease playback.

" Your first duty, I imagine. " Sunder said flatly, with a disdainful look in his eye.

" That's right sir. " Dane replied. Sunder gave him a look-over as he recalled the file on the new officer. A full telepath, Dane's psych profile revealed him to be an habitual 'nosy' telepath, as it was termed. 'Nosy' was the term coined by the psych evaluators for those who couldn't help but pick up on stray thoughts within their vicinity. It wasn't that they were trying to deliberately read the thoughts of those around them, it was just that they were extremely sensitive. A useful, if somewhat disconcerting trick to have.

Sunder was exceptionally well-equipped to deal with Dane's type. He allowed Dane to scrutinize him for a few moments - just enough time for him to discover how uncomfortable he was getting around the security chief. Once Sunder had decided he'd had enough, he spoke.

" First of all, Mr. Dane, I DO not appreciate your barging into my office without at least announcing yourself first. If you had thought to check your duty schedule, you would have seen that you and I had an orientation interview scheduled for tomorrow. Second, whenever you appear before a senior officer for duty, do not, I repeat, do not consider yourself to be on familiar terms enough to wear civilian attire. You will appear before me in full uniform in the future. "

" Yes sir. " Dane mumbled, obviously distressed. There was something else bothering him that he couldn't quite put his finger on yet.

" Now, as for your orientation. Seeing as you're here, we might as well get it out of the way. I usually partner junior officers with senior ones. Your initial duties will be fairly simple: brig watch, arsenal care, et. al. But you will also be assigned a number of training sessions in the holodeck to qualify you for more advanced duties. "

" Begging your pardon sir. But I've already been fully qualified on all advanced security operations back at the Academy. "

" Not to my standards, Ensign. The Galaxy is not the Academy, and you will find there will be a lot more to learn than what the Academy has prepared you for. You'll perform these evaluations and report to Commander Albrecht. He usually supervises training sessions, particularly new officers. "

Dane looked definitely uncomfortable at this point. He felt like he was wearing a thick woolen sweater with no undershirt. There was something about Sunder that didn't sit too well to him.

" Your first brig duty watch will be shared with Ensign O'Hare. She's another new addition. The two of you will be evaluated by your partners. " Sunder saw Dane's eyebrows rise at the mention of O'Hare's name.

" You know Ensign O'Hare. Mr. Dane? "

" We... met as I came on board, sir. " Dane said awkwardly. His head was starting to feel foggy - numbed somehow.

" Good then. At least you'll have a familiar face nearby. " Sunder noticed the young officer's discomfort. " Are you feeling all right Ensign? " Knowing full well what the problem was.

" Fine, sir. It must be a bit of lag. I've been traveling a lot. "

" Ensign, you are a full telepath, aren't you? "

" Yes sir. "

" I should let you know then, telepaths don't react too well to me. I'm human, but I was raised Orion. If you know anything about the Orion culture... "

" You're a jammer, aren't you sir? " Dane interrupted.

" By ritual only. I wasn't born a natural anti-telepath, but because of the rituals I was forced to undergo as a child, my mind developed the trait. Humans are more adaptable than other races. Betazoids have their empathic awareness, Vulcans have great intellectual skills as well as other gifts. Humans are the most adaptable species known in the galaxy. So far, it's through humanity's ability to change and to work with others that has provided defence against the Borg or the Dominion. Many telepaths, particularly sensitive ones, find that their abilities are somewhat dulled around me. You may be experiencing a sort of mental deafness around me. Your telepathic acuity will return to its full degree the further away from me you get. "

" I see. " Dane replied. Can you hear me? He mentally tried.

" Also, as a result, I'm fairly psi-deaf. It works both ways. Telepathy can't work around me, nor can it work for me. " Sunder said. " I've worked with telepaths in the past and so I've developed a fairly good awareness on the subject. Your file indicates that you're extremely sensitive, but I want you to warn you about your control. You probably rely on your telepathic perceptions of people as much as non-psis rely on their physical senses. Just a word of caution: try to remember that it's considered impolite to casually scan surface thoughts of those around you. "

" I'll try to remember that sir. "

" Good. Because the last thing I want to do is to have to lose a telepathic officer. You could be a great asset to this team, Ensign. I don't want you to lose your place by forgetting your place. Understand? "

" Yes sir. "

" Very well then. Now that I've concluded my lecture, are there any questions you may have at this time? "

" Just one, sir. "

" Go ahead, Ensign. " Sunder prodded.

Dane picked up the plastic casing of an audio recording from Sunder's desk.

" Who's Tom Jones? " He innocently asked.

Sunder's brow furrowed into the single storm cloud he'd been nick-named for and took the recording case out of the bewildered ensign's hand.

" Dismissed, Ensign. As quick as you can. "

"More introductions"
by Captain Robert Edward Lee Price

Captain Price and Lieutenant Commander Graves, the Galaxy's new Chief Science Officer, had spent the better part of an hour touring the starship. Lee had introduced Graves to more crew members than Steven could keep track of. Not surprising on board a starship with over a thousand people stationed on her.

As the turbolift doors opened, Captain Price gestured to the corridor as he and 'Commander Graves exited. "Deck 31. This is another full deck that is dedicated to the Science Department 'mate. Like decks 12 and 15, this deck can be completely isolated from the rest of the ship. What's more, deck 31 has fully compartmentalized laboratory rooms that can each be isolated and have their environments altered for atmosphere, temperature, and gravity. This deck has a hazardous materials section as well, for those more bizarre experiments that come along while touring the new frontier." Captain Price explained.

"Quite an impressive array of resources on board for a starship sir. Especially considering the Galaxy class is not a dedicated science vessel." Graves commented while the two men walked through the labs.

"The Galaxy was designed to be self sufficient for years at a time. Having a full array of well equipt laboratories to conduct experiments under changing conditions is a large part of that." Lee explained, "Also Lieutenant Commander Erikson always made sure that the science staff and facilities remained up to date with the latest technology available from the Federation. I hope you will do the same."

Graves nodded, "I intend to sir."

"Common, I want you to meet someone." Captain Price explained entering one of the smaller labs.

'Commander Graves followed and soon saw a blue skinned, raven headed woman in a pristine white lab coat examining a boiling beaker of light green liquid being heated by an incandescent burner.

"G'Day 'Commander." Captain Price greeted, "I have someone here I want you to meet...."

Ronni straightened up and removed her splash goggles while looking over Lieutenant Commander Graves. She was still a bit sad at seeing Greer depart and maybe a little miffed at having a new Chief Science Officer assigned to the Galaxy. Still, the Delphinian had the grace to not allow her personal feelings or knowledge of the situation color her behavior. "This must be the new Chief Science Officer you mentioned earlier Captain."

Lee nodded while Graves went ahead and introduced himself. After a hundred or so other introductions throughout the Galaxy on their little tour, it was becoming second nature by now. "Lieutenant Commander Steven Graves 'Commander."

Ronni offered her hand and shook Graves' firmly. "Lieutenant Commander Rr'lonii Morris. Practical Sciences Officer and Assistant Chief of Science on board the Galaxy." she smiled diplomatically.

"You must have been Erikson's right hand person." Graves smiled, "I hope I can count on you to continue keeping the Galaxy's science department running smoothly 'Commander."

*Well that's good... it doesn't sound like he plans on tossing me out as Assistant Chief...* Ronni thought. "I will do my best sir." she said through her practiced beauty queen smile.

While introduction were being made, Lieutenant Sullax came walking into the lab in his full bore, no nonsense, been-drinking-too-much-coffee stride. "'Commander I have the results of the viscositic analysis you ordered on the test sample...." the Romulan said while looking down at the padd in his hands. He only noticed that 'Commander Morris was speaking to the Captain and another Lieutenant Commander as he looked up.

Captain Price broke the ice, "G'Day Lieutenant. Say while you are here I have someone I would like you to meet."

"Good afternoon Captain." Ryak replied while glancing a suspicious, Romulan eye on Graves.

"Lieutenant Ryak Sullax, this is Lieutenant Commander Steven Alan Graves. He's the Galaxy's newest Chief Science Officer 'mate."

Ryak glanced at Graves and then handed the padd to 'Commander Morris. He had a slightly puzzled look on his face. "I had thought that Lieutenant Commander Morris would be assuming the Chief of staff position in Science sir."

Ronni took the padd with the test results and couldn't help but make a comment, "Oh I see. So is that the only reason you offered to run this test for me Lieutenant?"

Ryak did a quick double take at Ronni. "No. Of course not. It's just..." Deciding that he'd lost that argument, the Romulan turned and faced Lieutenant Commander Graves. "It's a pleasure to meet you 'Commander. I'm sure you'll find the Galaxy's Science team a competent group of professionals."

Graves shook the Romulan's hand. It was rare for a Romulan to be serving in Starfleet. Delphinians as well. Steven was beginning to get the impression that the Galaxy was indeed different from what he was used to. "I haven't had a chance to get to know everyone yet or review Lieutenant Commander Erikson's reports, but so far everyone I've met has been very nice."

"Well sir, if there is anything I can do for you, please let me know." Ryak offered while holding his hands behind his back and squaring his shoulders in a dignified, Romulan fashion.

"I'll keep that in mind Lieutenant." Graves nodded.

"Well if you will excuse me, I have other duties that need attending to." Lieutenant Sullax explained, "It was nice meeting you 'Commander."

With that Ryak turned and walked out of the science lab while Ronni, Steven and the Captain watched.

'Commander Graves glanced over at Ronni. "Is the Lieutenant always that eager to help 'Commander?"

Ronni raised her eyebrows and shook her head slightly, "Only when trying to ingratiate himself to his commanding officers..." Then she laughed and corrected 'Commander Graves concerned expression, "Yes sir. Lieutenant Sullax is a very enthusiastic scientist. He's some what eccentric with his Romulan heritage, but when it comes to science, you'll be hard pressed to find a more competent officer anywhere in Starfleet."

'Commander Graves gave a nod and a bit of a smile at Ronni's candidness. If first impressions counted for anything, the new Chief Science Officer had decided he liked Miss Morris.

Interrupting the introductions, Captain Price's comm badge sounded.

"Excuse me." Lee said activating his comm badge. "Price here. Go ahead 'mate."

It was Lieutenant' Brandis. ["Captain, we have received clearance from Starbase 61 to depart dry dock whenever the word is given. You said you wanted to be informed sir."]

"Bonzer 'mate. Has everyone returned from the Starbase yet Lieutenant?" Captain Price asked.

["No sir. There are still a few officers on Starbase 61 still."] Jonathan explained.

"Very well. Hail the officers still on leave and have them report back to the Galaxy within the hour. We will be departing then. Is Lieutenant Commander Bancroft on the bridge 'mate?"

["Negative Captain. I think she's meeting with Lieutenant Commander Casey Ti Miran in the main shuttle bay."] Brandis explained.

"Very well, who's presently serving at the helm then?" Lee asked.

["Lieutenant' Arisa sir."] Jonathan reported.

"Bonzer. Contact Lieutenant Commander Bancroft and 'ave her report to the Bridge in one hour. She can supervise the launching of the Galaxy from space dock with Lieutenant' Arisa at the helm. It should be good practice for them both."

["I'll let the 'Commander know sir."]

"Captain Price out." Lee closed, deactivating his comm badge before turning back to face Lieutenant Commander's Morris and Graves. "I'm afraid I'll have to cut the tour short 'Commander. Duty calls. Perhaps 'Commander Morris could finish showing you the remaining eleven decks of the ship? What do you say 'mate?"

Ronni gave a nod. She still wasn't feeling one hundred percent comfortable, having just said good by to her dying ex-lover a half an hour earlier and now, meeting what amounted to her new boss. But Graves seemed like a nice enough guy, and it was the Captain asking. "I'd be happy to sir." Ronni said through her practiced smile, "I'll need a minute to shut down my experiment first though, if you don't mind waiting 'Commander?"

Graves seemed very agreeable to that idea. It seemed he was developing tennis elbow with all the hands he'd shaken in the last hour. "That would be great 'Commander." Turning to the Captain, Graves smiled, "Thank you for taking me around the ship Captain. The Galaxy is indeed a fine vessel, just as you said."

"No worries 'Commander. If you 'ave any questions about the Science department, 'Commander Morris here is the one to ask. If you 'ave any other questions, feel free to let me know. G'Day."

Both Graves and Morris watched as the Captain turned and exited the science lab.

"He seems to be quite the personable Captain." Graves commented.

Ronni nodded, "He's a good commanding officer. We are lucky to be serving onboard a starship with a man like him."

"So..." Graves said rubbing his hand together and looking at the boiling beaker Ronni was working on, "What exactly is this you are working on 'Commander?..."

=/\= "Partnering and other related items?" =/\=
by Lt jg Neil Bolitho
and Lt.Cmdr Matthew Albrecht

Neil saunted into the security office during beta shift and greeted his fellow colleagues as he weaved his way through to the Assistant Chief's office, where according to the shift roster Lt. Cmdr Albrecht held sway in all matters relating to security.

Neil paused briefly outside the office and activated the chime on the door. He wondered why the door was closed; Albrecht always kept an open door, in Neil's experience.

"Yes!" Came the muffled reply from within the ASEC's office.

Neil entered. Commander Albrecht was seated at the desk staring at a holo image of his son Adam Delorbius, Neil smiled and wondered if the Assistant Chief of Security was mellowing out?

Bolitho cleared his throat and ventured "Sir?"

The curly-haired officer behind the desk pushed his holo-projector into the corner it usually occupied. He smiled and said, "Neil, good to see you. What's on your mind?"

"'Commander I was wondering, Anna Gartner, she was my partner back on Gamma shift, before she decided to go loco and get herself removed from the active duty list. In addition she was transferred to Alpha shift so the Thund...., I mean Commander Sunder could keep a close eye on her."

Neil paused trying to gauge the Commander's mood. "I'm assuming she has been placed back on the active duty list ....what, with her promotion and all, so 'Commander I'm requesting Gartner be re-assigned to me as my partner!"

Matthew switched gears, to address the professional concerns of the other security officer. "Lieutenant', is that something that you really want? Or, is this more about the circumstances under which she was taken off active duty?"

Bolitho was shaking his head 'no' before the 'commander finished his sentence. "No, sir. This is something I really want. We make an excellent team, and, there's nobody I'd want at my back in a fight more than Gartner."

Another gear switch for the ASEC. "Okay, Neil. Let me play devil's advocate here, okay? Let's say the chief DID move Anna to Alpha so he could keep an eye on her." Albrecht stood and moved around the desk to stand a few feet from the lieutenant. "So, we'd have to give him a pretty good reason to shift her out again. And, you can't expect another promise to keep her out of trouble to get you very far this time," he added. From his expression, Neil could tell the 'commander wanted to be convinced.

" Well Sir, in all fairness, I was incapacitated,at the time when Gartner flipped, in fact sir I was the reason she flipped!" Neil unconsciously moved his hand to his stomach where the wound had been. Neil jerked his hand away realising what he was doing and quickly glanced down at his boots."SIr .." Started Neil raising his eyes " In my personal opinion, I believe I am the best person aboard the ship to partner Anna, I know her idiosyncrasy, and how best to handle her! I'm also led to believe that she is making considerable headway with her counselling!"

Matthew slumped down to sit on the desktop. "Alright, Neil. You make sense. I'll take this to Commander Sunder, and try to sell him on it. So, you'd both be on my shift, right?" he asked with a smile.

" Commander I would like nothing better than to work on your shift!" Smiled Neil genuinely pleased " And well, if it helps to convince the Chief?" grinned Neil "Who am I to complain!"

Neil turned to leave the office, but hesitated by the door. Commander Albrecht hadn't moved from atop his desk. "Something else, Neil?" he guessed.

Neil turned back to his superior, his face clouded in uncertainty. "Sir may I ask for some advice on a more personal issue?"

He put his hands flat on the desk to either side of his thighs. Albrecht sighed and said, "Not if you start off with 'SIR' every time..." When Neil hesitated to continue, Matthew dryly amended, "That was a joke, Bolitho."

Neil grinned a little sheepishly " Yes Sir!" Before continuing "You and Dr Gakor, are you both ..." Neil desperately tried to think of the right word and came up with ".....happy in your relationship?"

The lieutenant commander took in a deep breath, and let it out. "Oh, that's your question." He wondered who Bolitho was dating, and couldn't place any faces. He considered Gartner, but it seemed that the young security woman was dating Kalln from Sciences. After a pause, he continued, "Yes, we're both happy. At least, I know I am. It's strange, really; There's a war, we're in space away from our mothers and fathers and siblings. Promotions are coming quickly these days and young officers like us are being given great levels of responsibility. This is the last time anyone would want to get into a serious relationship and start a new family unit." Absently, Matthew dragged the holo-projector toward himself and activated the image of his child.

He continued, "But, she completes me. I can't put it any more plainly. Endris is totally independent. She's never cried on my shoulder, and is tough as nails. Yet, despite her cool exterior and my sarcastic facade, when we're together we soften and meld..." He sensed that he was rambling, and stopped himself. He hoped Neil would clarify his question.

Neil stared ahead deep in thought, before turning back to regard Lt. Cmdr Albrecht "Well sir, ....forgive me prying, but when you first saw Dr Gakor, did you know then she was the one you were destined to spend the rest of your life with?"

The question struck Matthew as absurd. After the initial reaction, he realised that it was a perfectly normal question. Who knew how many times he would hear that question over the years to come? He answered, "Actually, at the time I found the doctor to be so different from other women. I never saw her as a possible romantic interest until months later! The odd thing was, she grew up so differently than I did, even though we both lived on Tellarite worlds. I think we both picked up on the cultural differences right away."

Neil nodded, "Well sir, how did Dr Gakor initially respond to you? Did she ...well ... hate you?"

Albrecht blinked. *I should hope not!* he thought. He shook his head negatively. "No, I don’t think so. Actually, we were friends. You know, we went out for oinkus together a lot, that sort of thing. But, friendship is important in a relationship. Without it, what have you got?"

Neil nodded suddenly deep in thought. "I think I understand Commander!" Smiling he raised his eyes up to Matthew Albrecht. "Thank you.... Thank you sir!"

Albrecht nodded back indicating that Bolitho was dismissed watching the security officer leave he wondered briefly what was going through that man's mind?

"A Spud meets a Dagger"
By: Ensign Elaine O'Hare and Ensign Kale Danal
Security Officers, USS Galaxy

Scene: Corridors: U.S.S. Galaxy

Kale walked out of Sunder's office and waited until the doors closed, he stopped and leaned up against a wall. ~Oh God, what have I gotten myself into this time. I'm dead, that is what will happen to me, dead. I can see it now. Nice, handsome Betazoid officer dead by the hands of the Chief of Security and a little fiery red head because they don't like telepaths~. Kale thought to himself, taking a deep breath. Rubbing his head with his hands, he stood up and made his way back to his quarters.

It had been an very hard day with training and all, Kale was sort of surprised that the chief would make him train but it was a good idea in case you forgot something.

Walking over to the closet he sliped on a pair of short shorts, not putting on a shirt he crossed the room and picked up a pair of black sunglasses and placed them on his face covering his eyes.

Thinking about his commbadge he then placed a silver chain around his neck and hook the commbadge to it. Turning he walked out, he thouht something on the beach sounded nice so he headed for holodeck 3.

As he walked he got a few looks from members of the crew, but it didn't bother him. Walked up the to wall unit at the holodeck, "Computer, load program KaleAlphaOne".

"Enter when ready" the computer replied.

Kale walked in and smiled, it was just as he remember the beach was beautiful. He walked over by the water and pulled his shorts off and necklace and dove in.

Dressed in shorts and a spandex halter top, sporting a towl around her neck, O'Hare proceeded to the holodeck to jog. The Chief had given her a difficult regimine to follow and the ensign was possitive that the program schedule would only get heavier.

Elaine was dead set on exceeding the Thundercloud's expectations of her performance, which likely he thought O'Hare performance was going to be mediocre at best. She had also set up training sessions with various members of the crew so the ensign could widen her skills.

"Computer, who is in Holodeck 3?"

"Ensign Kale Danal."

Elaine's facial expression puckered up sourly. She knew she had better apologize for the gruff, rude was she acted when Kale stepped on board the Galaxy.

Walking into the holodeck, O'Hare paused, enveloping the scene before her. A serene beach, waves lapping onto the shore, blue skies, the whole nine yards. O'Hare lifted her chin, closed her eyes, and listened to the sounds and took in the smells that surrounded her.

Kale who was still in the water saw the doors open and in walked Ensign Elaine O'Hare, ~Come back for more~ he thought to himself watching her.

Sneaking up silently before her, Ensign Kale Danal stood there with a big grin on his face, sunglasses hiding his enouremous humor glazed eyes.

~That's alright, you don't have to say your sorry to me and by the way nice outfit~ he told her telepathicly.

"Where did that thought....." O'Hare, remembering who she was dealing with, opened her eyes and jumped, seeing Kale inches from her. Glaring him straight in the face, she thought very strongly....

~You better not even start with me. I just came to apologize for my actions yesterday.~

~As I said before I you don't have to, I know how ill saying sorry makes you feel. And, I'll have so much more fun with you as my partner.~ He told her back though he still had that killer smile on his face.

Elaine stood back and looked at Kale for a moment "What are you talking about......I don't have a partner yet."

Kale still continued with the killer smile, loving how he was going to burst her nice little bubble of calmness: "Yes you do honey, and I'm it"

"Oh geeez, I'm going to get sick!" Elaine said, growing whiter by the second.

~Why the hell are you still grinning?~

~You haven't noticed?~

~Noticed...........Holy shit!~

Turning around on her heel, O'Hare's face blushed bright pink. Holding her hands over her eyes, she whiped the towel from around her neck and handed out to Kale.

"Damn it Danal, put that on!!"

"Okay O'Hare!" Danal laughing fully, seeing how easy it was to get the red head stirred up.

Danal took the towel from O'Hare and continued to hold it.

~Okay, I'm perfectly decent now~

Peeking from behind her hand, Elaine spun slowly around to test Danal...... Seeing that he was still in the buff and sporting a tattoo of a dagger on his thigh, she was fully enraged. Not caring what he was wearing or not wearing, she continued to spin around, glaring him in the eyes once more.

A little strong thought interupted her mind set from a previous conversation with her mother.

~"Top or bottom Spud?"~

O'Hare shook her head violently

"Spud? SPUD???" Danal lost it right then and there. Boisterous laughter filled the holodeck.

"Shut up Danal. And stop probing my mind! I'll report you so fast your head will spin. Then, I'll kick it in for good measure!!!" O'Hare's stance and air about her just beckoned for Kale to try something...mental or physical.

~Just try me......I dare you to you mental probing, socially retarted computer nerd!~

~Please, I wouldn't wast my time probing you. You stay mad enough to project your thoughts like that of a drunken klingon, O'Hare~ Kale told her telepathicly as he put on his shorts.

~Being a drunk Klingon or not, if I wished it, I could whirl you into your own personal hell with my thoughts Kale. I used to be a counselor ya know, we are a little twisted that way.~

"Look small fry, I'm not trying to make you mad. You were a former couselor, huh? Then take some advise that you dished out to others and see a couselor about you dislike of betaziod, SPUD!" he said as he turned and walked off. Kale sat back down in his beach chair watching the waves come in.

Walking sternly over to Danal, not willing to give into the little Betazoid thought gopher, she kicked his chair over, making Danal stumble out.

"I'm not through with you yet!"

"Bring it on, babe, and I'll beat your ass so fast" Kale said then he opened his mentle war zone and started singing to her telepathicly.

O'Hare grabbed her head with her hands, "You little turd!" she yelled.

Glarring at the terribly singing Betazoid, Elaine proceeded to sing her way into a full fledged Klingon opera......

Kale stopped singing, "Look can we just be friends, I don't need more enemies. God, we sound awful! By the way, what's a turd?". He said laughing.

~Did your brain just fart, or are you really that stupid Danal?~ Elaine thought, snickering out loud while she held his gaze.

"I sounded better than you ever would. And as far as friends, forget it. I'd rather be bathed with a Romulan porcupine. Good day!" Gruffing walking out of the holodeck, Elaine let a hugh sigh of discust as she was back in her own little head.

~YEAH, YOU WANT ME HONEY!~ he yelled to her telepathicly laughing the whole time, he knew that it wasn't true but just him saying it would make her mad.

~In your dreams ensign. And if you continue to think that way, I'll sic my boyfriend on you. He's very profecient in wacking the hell out of little betazoids. Here's a mental picture for you.~

Kale's mind went dark and then a figuar in combat unifrom was standing impressivly with his Bat'leth, giving him a nasty ass look. Kale knew who it was it was, Lt. Bolitho.

It didn't really bother him though, O'Hare couldn't send him a picture that would scare him Kale had been in the mind of killers, former borg drones so this was nothing to him.

"See ya on our first shift Spud!"

"What ever Dagger."

Kale just just shook his head and didn't say anything more to her, she was very upset at something. Kale knew that it was more then just him, after all how could some one get so mad at a stranger she only met a few days ago.

Several images flashed into Danal's mind that he didn't think O'Hare knew she was projecting towards him. They were sketchy, but had something to do with a Vulcan on this ship.

"Setting Up House."
by Lieutenant Commander Steven Alan Graves
Chief Science Officer, USS Galaxy

Steven sat there with the opened one of the cases transported over from Starbase 61. Catherine insisted on unpacking everything now so that they could make the spacious, but empty quarters, seem more homely. Not the sterile environment they encountered when they first walked in.

Lieutenant Commander Graves was not due to start his official duties as Chief Science Officer for a few days. While the USS Galaxy was docked at Starbase 61 there was no immediate rush to get him settled in to his new assignment, so he made the most of his time off in an attempt to get everything organized.

On top of a pile of clothes was a selection of photographs that had been kept in the living area of their quarters on the Windsor. The first photograph was of him with Catherine on top of the Lawrence Plateau -- after reaching the summit of the massive rock face he proposed to her to be his wife. Now he could smile about it, but that moment had left him feeling the embarrassment for weeks after that moment four years ago.

The next few photographs included various pictures from their little family. Catherine and Steven on their wedding day, one of Anna not long after she was born, and a picture was of Catherine when she graduated with a doctorate in astrophysics. Even though this was his sixth assignment since graduating from Starfleet Academy, it was possessions like this that made each new place seem a little like home.

Placing them out on the table near the observation windows he tried to arrange them. Catherine had just put her daughter down to sleep when she came out and saw him struggling to set them up -- aesthetics certainly was not his strongpoint. Steve spent the next fifteen minutes placing each photograph out and then rearranging them all over again. Catherine covered her mouth to muffle the laugh she nearly let out. She never realized he was that fussy.

Hearing something behind him, he turned to find his wife walking back in to their bedroom. Steven frowned and let out a sigh before leaving the photographs waiting there for Catherine to organize when she had a spare moment.

Sitting back down he started to riffle through the silver case again. Under some of his clothes he found some other things that he quickly packed before they left the Intrepid-class vessel. Closing the case he stood up and walked over to the replicator. "Coffee." He said as he pressed one of the console buttons.

["There are twenty-seven beverages under that beverage. Please specify."]

"Coffee. White, one sugars." Graves said slightly annoyed at the computer pedantic remark. "All I want is just plain, simple coffee -- hot water passed through ground coffee beans, some milk and approximately one teaspoon of sugar."

The computer whirled twice as it finally materialized his request. The gentle aroma of caffeine filled the air around the replicator unit and he removed it from the chamber. Giving a quick sniff he started to drink it.

*** Science Lab Nine - the next morning ***

One of the harder things with being reassigned to a new ship was the unfamiliarity an officer felt. In doing so there was inevitably a few minor adjustment problems as they got used to what their commanding officer expected of them, their idiosynchronsies, and their own style of commanding. The new Chief Science Officer had found that in nearly ever new assignment. The only exception was his assignment as a Starfleet adviser on the solar observatory in the Vaytan system -- then again he was there only for a few weeks.

What would Captain Price expect from the new Chief Science Officer? What was his style of command? Did he have any idiosynchronsies that he needed to be aware of? These kind of questions filled the mind of the Lieutenant Commander as he prepared a departmental briefing for the senior science officers and departmental representatives. No doubt they might be asking themselves similar questions about him.

The chronometer on his console beeped at the same moment the door chime sounded to the laboratory. "Enter." He said as several science officers walked in and arranged themselves around the central science console. His own reading in to the personnel files of the department allowed him to recognize Lieutenant Commander Morris and Lieutenant Ryak Sullax, but the others were relatively unfamiliar to him -- at least they did now.

"Well, since I've only met a handful of you all, I guess the first thing to do is introduce myself." Steven said as placed both hands on the console. "My name is Steven Graves and I've been assigned to take over this department until further notice."

Several of the scientists looked at each other, probably surprised that Lieutenant Commander Morris wasn't taking over permanently with Greer Erikson leaving. Although there was no malice intended it did make Steven feel as if his job was going to be more difficult. "Lieutenant Commander Morris, I've been reading your duty logs over the last few weeks and everything seems to be in good order. Great work 'Commander."

Ronni felt a little awkward. After all, she had only been informed about the sudden change in command on the day that Greer had left. "Thank you sir."

"If you don't mind I would like to sit down with you and begin a review of the department personnel and any long-term projects being carried out by civilian and Starfleet personnel. I am hoping your familiarity with the Galaxy's science department and own research experience will be a great assest."

"Sure." She said simply.

"Great." He said before turning to the Romulan scientist he had met a few days earlier. "Mister Sullax, as I understand it you've made some additions to Stellar Cartography. I would like to see a progress report."

"Excuse me 'Commander, but that project was completed some time ago. 'Commander Erikson kept a full record of my proposal and system updates in his official logs."

"I know. I've already read through them." Steven explained. "What I'd like to see is a six month progress report. You have to admit that the changes you made by linking it to astrometrics is not usual to this class of vessel. If you can provide some additional information then we can demonstrate how this project has improved the efficiency of this department."

The Romulan looked at the new Chief Science Officer. "As you wish sir."

"Thank you Mister Sullax." 'Commander Graves said as he tried to sound enthusiastic. He was a strong believer in team activities and was trying to encourage this new staff to get involved. In some ways it was simply his way of compensating for the fact that he was the new guy in the neighborhood taking over from their former departmental commander. That was never an easy task. "Mister Stihk?" He said turning to the Vulcan scientist.

"I come to serve." Stihk replied in a typically Vulcan manner.

"I've read your journal article on the hydrogen breakdown ratios in breakdown of star GR-3786. Interesting analysis." Graves remarked.

The Vulcan raised his eyebrow. He could see the Human was trying to make some small talk -- something Vulcans were not particularly proficient in. "In what way, sir?"

"I was briefly assigned to the solar observatory in the Vaytan system. The star there has an unusually dense corona that causes it to be unstable. Your analysis of the hydrogen breakdown at GR-3786 seems to be consistent with a few observations we made there."

"I see." The Vulcan replied.

Steven gave him a quick nod. "Mister Stihk, if you find some time I would like to have an indication of equipment failure in this department over the last six months and hand it over to myself and the Chief Engineer, I would be grateful."

The Vulcan Lieutenant gave him a nod.

"Is Lieutenant' Rhys here." He said after he looked at the next name on his list.

"Yes 'Commander." The joined Trill replied from he place next to Lieutenant Sullax.

"Rhys, I must be up front and say that I do not think much about sending any Starfleet cadet in to the field with their limited experience, especially during a time of war."

The Trill seemed to be shocked with his initial statement. "I'm sorry sir, but I must disagree with you on that point."

"So would I, Rhys." He said in total agreement. "Your time on the Galaxy has been well spent and you have been an active member of this department. It seems my own misgivings were wrong. I'm sure there's still plenty for you to learn while you are here, and as I understand from my predecessor's logs, one of your areas of specialization is supposed to be exobiology?"

"That's correct."

"Well then, I need you to meet with either the Chief Medical Officer or Assistant Chief Medical Officer and produce an update of our first contact capabilities. I plan on speaking with one of them shortly, but I believe, considering this is a vessel of exploration, that we need to maintain a good idea of our readiness to meet and study new species."

Viara smiled. First, he sounded as if he was saying she had no place on board the Galaxy and now he was assigning her to an interdepartmental task between science and medical. "Aye sir."

"That brings me to my other point." Steven said as he turned to Lieutenant Commander Morris. "Lieutenant Commander, I think it's time we review the battle readiness of this department. Considering all of the action this ship has seen, I think we need to maintain and accurate idea of strategies to keep the sensor array working and the such."

"That analysis was already completed just prior to the department of 'Commander Erikson, sir." The blue-skinned scientist pointed out.

'Commander Graves seemed stumped for words. That was obviously something he had missed when preparing for this early morning briefing. "My apologies 'Commander. I was not aware that had already been carried out."

The small group of officers stood there in relative silence. He could see that this situation was as uncomfortable for him as it was to them. In his mind that was the only thing, other than science, that they had in common.

"I'm going to be honest with you here and now. This transition is not easy to make. My wife and I were comfortably living with our daughter on the Windsor before I received a communiqué saying that I was being reassigned to a new ship. I understand that this change has been more difficult to some of you than others," he said looking at Ronni, "but it is something we need to move passed. If you have any problems then you need to say something, if not to me then with someone you can talk to."

Steven could not determine whether his little speech had any influence on them regarding him or his assignment as the Chief Science Officer. All he could hope for was that they were all professional and did not allow their personal feelings towards him influence their duties in a negative way -- that's all he could ask for.

"Unless there is anything else open to discussion?" he said, giving the chance for someone to say something. "Dismissed people."

The new Chief Science Officer watch them all leave except for Lieutenant Commander Morris who had made the decision to remain behind. Steven had heard briefly that she and the former Chief Science Officer had been close, but he was not sure how to break through the barrier she seemed to have towards him.

"Is there a problem Morris?" He said as the half-Delphinian stood there.

"Not at all sir. You said that there are some reviews and reports you wished to look over. I was going to organize a suitable time to make a start on them."

"Sure." Graves said with delight. "I hope I'm not being too forward 'Commander, but my wife and I were wondering if you might join us for dinner? We can start on the reports after that."

Ronni tried to manage a smile. She didn't want to like Steven Graves for simple fact that he was taking over a position that her ex-lover and friend. She had been saddened by his departure from the Galaxy and needed to vent that frustration out on someone -- Graves seemed the likeliest candidate.

*** Deck 09, Room 1968 ***

Steven walked in and placed the small stack of PADDs he was carrying down on his desk, totally unaware that Catherine was entertaining a guest. He turned around to find his wife talking to a young Starfleet officer, an ensign, wearing the color of the science and medical departments. He didn't recognize her so he doubted she was from his own department -- then again he still had a lot of names and faces to remember.

"Good morning." He said, extending his hand in friendship, "Steven Graves."

The Ensign stood up and shook his hand. "Pleasure sir. I'm Ensign Keigan from the counseling department."

"Yes," Catherine added quickly, "Ensign Keigan is here to see if our little family is settling in after your transfer from the Windsor."

"It is often difficult for Starfleet officers and their families when transferring between assignments, especially in the first few days. Lieutenant Dallas asked if I would come by just to see that everything was all right." The counseling officer explained.

Graves sat down on the couch. "That seems sensible. I think it also places quite a strain on departments when they receive a new departmental chief too." Keigan gave him an interested glance. As a counselor there was a natural interest when a comment was made like that. "I just spoke with my senior officers for the first time."

"I realize you'll probably take to Counselor Dallas about this, but if you don't mind my asking sir, how did it go?" Keigan inquired.

When Steven though about the briefing he wasn't sure what to make of it. It seems to have gone well, no apparent signs of friction between any of the science personnel or even towards him. "I believe everything will be fine for now. Like with many changes it might take some time."

"I understand." The counselor replied before standing up. "I won't take any more of your time. Doctor Essex, thank you for the coffee."

Essex smiled. Keigan may not have realized but this first visit made her feel so much more comfortable with moving away from their home of two years. "You're welcome counselor."

"Lieutenant Commander Graves, good to meet you sir."

"You too Ensign." Steven said as he walked the ensign to the door. Keigan turned and walked out of their quarters, leaving Catherine and Steven alone to talk about their respective days. Walking back to their living area he sat down opposite her. "I hope you don't mind but I suggested that 'Commander Morris joins us for dinner tomorrow night."

The astrophysicist tried to think whether or not she had heard the name before. "Who?"

"The Assistant Chief Science Officer. A Delphinian, well actually half-Delphinian, woman." He said in the hope it would jog her memory. 'We've got some work to get through and I thought since ..."

"That's all right." Essex interrupted. She understood that he wanted to make the right kind of impressions on the people he would be serving with. "You need to get to know the people you will be working with. Did you look into the possibility of using the astrophysics laboratories on the ship?"

Graves nodded. "That will be fine. I don't see any problems with making the same kind of arrangement as we had on the Windsor. At least you can continue your own research there."

"So what's for breakfast?"

Steven stood up. "Well, don't get used to it unless you want an early start to the day. Once I start assuming normal duties I doubt I'll have that much time to hand around every morning."

"I know." She said realizing that as a departmental chief he would have to devote much more time than simply working in a department. "I'll speak with the ship's counselor about organizing daycare for the little one."

"Three pieces of bacon, a slice of toast, and some scrambled eggs. Two servings." The Chief Science Officer said as he stood by the replicator. "You could always keep Anna with you each day."

"Considering the potentially dangerous equipment in the lab I'd rather not have our daughter there. I might be paranoid but what if a containment field breached and leaks plasma -- something like that." Catherine pointed out. "As much as I would miss her during the day, I don't think the risk is worth it."

"You have a point there." He remarked, moving the plates with their breakfast over to the dining table. Walking back over to the replicator he tried to decide on what to drink at that time of the morning. Customarily he rarely drank anything other than coffee at that time of the day.

Catherine over and sat down as Steven requested a glass of orange juice and another glass with guava juice. "Anyway, I think it will do Anna some good to be with children her own age."

"I'll leave that with you, or would you rather I take her to speak with the teacher?" He said, finally sitting down to his breakfast.

"It's all right. I'll do it." Essex said as she picked up her knife and fork and began to eat her breakfast.

"New Beginnings" by:
Lieutenant(JG) Rhys
Jr. Science Officer
U.S.S. Galaxy

Viara sat a dimly lit workstation in the Stellar Cartography Lab. Viara was working on sensor readings and calculations of the recent rift the Galaxy had traveled. As Viara modified calculations and protocols for the rift the view screen changed to match. Suddenly the room lit up and the information was lost as power was cut to the Lab.

"DAMN IT" Said Viara as she stood up.

"Computer, what happen to the power allocated to Stellar Cartography?" Ordered Viara as she walked over to the lab's door.

"Power was Transfered to Science Lab 2." Replied the Computer in her normally Cold Tone as Viara walked out the door.

"Under who's authority?" Questioned Viara.

"Under the authority of the Chief Science Officer; Lt.Commander Graves." Retorted the Computer.

"Lt.Commander Graves?" Said Viara with a quizzical expression.

"That is correct." Replied the Computer.

"Where is Mr. Graves?" Asked Viara as she stepped into a Turbo Lift.

"Lt.Commander Graves is in his quarters..." Replied the Computer.

The Turbo Lift's doors shut and zooms to Lt.Commander Grave's quarters.

*****A Few Moments Later*****

Viara stands at Lt.Commander Grave's door.

*I don't know who this guy thinks he is. But he has another thing coming if he thinks he can just walk in here and start changing things without even letting his own staff know!!!* Thinks Viara as she hit Grave's door chime.

"Girl's night in"
Ensign Elaine O'Hare
Lt. (jg) Tim O'Connell
Lt. (jg) Eshar Jaron

After her tiny confrontation with Ensign Danal and the un-official phaser target practice with Lt. O'Connell, the Ensign really wanted a woman to talk to. Not that men were okay to talk to, Elaine just had her share of them recently. Eshar was the first and only person that came to mind.

Sitting on her couch, Elaine sighed. She had a gut feeling Lt. Bolitho was not going to be pleased at her decision to switch to security. Elaine was sure that she had caused quite a few heads to be scratched the last few days with her transfer request. She liked counseling people and trying to help them, but it wasn't her passion. O'Hare had a sarcastic attitude, quick temper, and big mouth...not exactly the type of person crew members would like to tell their private thoughts and feelings to. After her father had somewhat accepted the fact that his daughter was going to Starfleet no matter what, Rudy O'Hare pushed Elaine to go into a "non-violent" major, such as counseling. Grimacing to herself, O'Hare frowned when she thought of the word non-violent. Pushing her hair back, the ensign rose up and proceeded to Eshar's quarters.

*****Eshar Jaron's quarters*****

Tim was sitting next to Eshar on the couch when the door chimed. "Come in" She called out, the door hissed open and their stood Elaine, Eshar stood Up and gestured the younger officer in to the room, "Come in dead eye." She Said. "Tim told me. Nice shooting." She looked at the newest security Officer with mirth in her eyes."

"I wasn't dead on balls accurate. But, I have not fired a phaser in a while. Besides, being able to shoot a phaser isn't all that I have to learn before I'm an 'official security officer'." O'Hare said plainly.

Eshar flashed Tim a look that told him it was time to go.

Tim caught the look that she gave him, "Ok I can take a hint, you two want some privacy."

Eshar gave him a no nonsense "move out now" look and Tim headed for the door, stopping only for a quick kiss on the lips and then he bolted.

The young trill woman looked over at her friend, "So Elaine what's on your mind?" she asked.

Elaine looked at Eshar with a sigh. "Oh, it's just been a difficult day. The worse thing is, I haven't told Neil that I transferred to security, and to top it all off, he's my trainer! I'm sure the way the rumor mill is around this ship, he'll be pounding on my door any moment. I could just hear him now "What the hell did you do that for? Got any suggestions on how to handle this?"

Eshar shifted a bit uncomfortably and quickly changed the topic, "So, has he spoken to you yet about… well what Tim and he talked about, his feelings for you?" She leveled a clam gaze at Elaine. "And tell me what was said, what you did, leave out no details."

O'Hare's eyes looked like they swooned. "Yeah, last night. We were both extremely nervous about it and he careened into a lamp of mine. I've never seen him that way before. Neil was always so confident of himself and last night, he was a goof, a cute goof, but still a goof. Don't get me wrong, I was nervous too. You should see my bedroom!"

Her eyes got big as doorknobs, "A mess ?" she giggled. "Klingon style huh? I thought you didn't like it Klingon style."

Elaine's eyes shot wide open "No…no…not that….good grief! I meant from all the outfits I threw around the room trying to find something to get dressed in." O'Hare smacked her palm to her forehead, which sounded even worse!

Eshar again giggled a bit, "Getting dressed. Or was it getting undressed….."

"Eshar!!!!" Elaine giggled. "Getting dressed. I was ready for bed when he came and I went and changed. Geez woman, get your mind out of the gutter!"

Eshar laughed again, "honey, I'm engaged to Tim O'Connell, my mind started in the gutter. "

O'Hare looked at Eshar and slowly shook her head. "You are something else."

Eshar replied, "I just like to give you a bit of grief… it's cute you're flustered. What was said anyway. You two now a couple or what? Besides I need my maid of honor to have a date for the wedding."

Elaine looked at Eshar with a smile. "Well, I don't know if we are 'technically' a couple or not. I need to speak to Bolitho before I know for sure. Really? Maid of honor? Sure! I'd be happy to do that. I'm sure Neil wouldn't mind going with me. I'll ask him. So, any way, how did you two meet? I'm curious. You two don't seem to be the type of couple that fought their way into each others hearts."

She smiled at the memory, "it's kind of a funny story, we met on the Galaxy's last shore leave, Tim picked me up in the officers club and well we've been together ever since, we spent the entire shore leave together. On the Galaxy, we just kept spending more time, Next thing you know we're engaged and my mom thinks I've gone insane, marrying a Terran security officer." Eshar shook her head, "well she's my mother, no one is good enough for her angel."

"All I've seen Tim pick up is a whiskey glass." Elaine's boisterous laughter filled the atmosphere. Stifling back the laughs, she spoke.

"I'm sorry. You are insane marrying a Terran security officer Esh, I'm close to going in the loony bin potentially dating one. Let's just check ourselves in to the ship's mental hospital. And speaking about mothers. You thought you had it bad? The whole Klingon High Counsel will be hearing about Neil and me when I tell my mother. Oh, and by the way….your no angel…." O'Hare playfully smirked at Eshar.

Eshar smirked at Elaine, "I'm no Angel, which one of us spent the night with someone else's fiancée. " Seeing Elaine protest she continued, "I knew you didn't get any when I first walked in, you weren't smiling and hang over or not you would have been grinning for sure… Trust me I know."

"Okay, Okay. I'm not giving out information either way! I'm a little bitchy because I found out my partner is a Betazoid."

"Ew, really? How'd you find that out?" Eshar asked with interest. "Well, Tim told me after I initially greeted him in the hall. I found out that he was my partner, when he told me, standing before me buck NAKED!!!!" O'Hare fell off the couch rolling in loud, uncontrollable giggles.

Eshar joined her friend in the laughter. "Well at least he has nothing to hide from you.. but it must have been a shock…. ." She looked at her, "so was he…. Cute?"

"To tell you the truth, not really. I mean, he was attractive and all. But he can't even start to compare to Neil."

Eshar smiled, "You have it bad O'Hare, you and Neil might be on the next train!"

Elaine looked puzzled at Eshar. "Train?"

"The marriage train. If you don't even look at a cute guy with no clothes on, you've got it bad."

"Eshar, come on, Neil and I just got together and you're already marrying us off? And I didn't say that I didn't look at him. He's got a really detailed tattoo of a dagger on his upper thigh"

Eshar giggled. "A tattoo? Do tell!"

"New Beginnings and Old Behaviors" by:
Lieutenant(JG) Rhys
Additions by Lt. Commander Graves

Viara stood at the door of her new commanding officer's quarter, fuming over one of his first command decisions. Viara hit the door chime. The door soon swished open and a tall, muscular man, answered the door.

"Lt. Commander Graves." Said Viara rather annoyed at her earlier inconvenience.

"Yes and you are?" Graves questioned, wondering who the young woman before him was. Although he recalled having seen the Trill he could not immediately remember her name.

"I'm Lieutenant' Rhys. Viara Rhys." Viara replied, her mouth gaping at the handsome Chief Science Officer.

The new Chief Science Officer looked at the Starfleet cadet. "What may I do for you Miss Rhys?"

"Well for starters, sir, you could try showing some courtesy and notifying your staff of a power transfer. I've lost a weeks work in Stellar Cartography thanks to your unexpected power transfer." Said Viara as she handed Graves a PADD with some garbled information on it.

Looking down at the PADD he could barely make out what contained in the main directory. The information was garbled and distorted as if the PADD contained information that had gone through a data wipe. "What is this?"

"This is what is left of my work. The power went out as I was processing new algorithms into my calculations. I'm completely back at square one, which could have been avoided if you'd simply had..." Started Viara.

"Miss Rhys," the Lieutenant Commander explained calmly, "I understand your position, but that doesn't entitle you to march to my quarters and disturb my family in the manner you just did."

Steven looked over his shoulder for a moment. Even though he only had a limited view of his quarter he could see Anna still playing with some toys and Catherine looking at the two Starfleet officers. The new science chief turned back to the Trill. Walking towards Viara he managed to step outside of his quarters so that the doors closed behind him.

Viara nearly bit her tongue as she tried to keep in her frustrations to herself. "I'm 'Commander. It's just that I had been working on that information for some time now."

"Well, there was no information regarding you project proposal on my desk or in the duty logs of the laboratory supervisor. I would not have approved Mister Conklin's redirection of power from Stellar Cartography to Science Lab Two had I known what you were doing."

"Oh." Rhys said as she recalled the oversight. It seems that in her enthusiasm she had forgotten to file a research report with the appropriate officer.

Steven could see Rhys thinking about what he had just said. Walking passed her he stopped several meters away and turned back. "Now, Miss Rhys, if you are finished we'll see about retrieving your data."

The Trill science cadet walked towards her commanding officer as the two continued down the corridor. "I don't see how that is possible 'Commander."

"We'll there are a few things they don't teach you Starfleet Academy, Miss Rhys. All information is backed up in to the secondary computer core. Because that redundancy is synchronous, the computer should still have a copy of your calculations until the time of the power drain." The two continued until they were standing in front of the doors to the upper deck of Stellar Cartography. "After you."

Lieutenant' Rhys walked in and was followed by 'Commander Graves. "This is what I was doing." She said as he tapped one of the buttons on the poorly lit console.

Steven looked at the console display where he saw a similar display as the PADD she handed to him a short time ago. Rhys moved away and allowed the new senior officer to start working on the console. "Lieutenant Commander Graves to Main Engineering," he said as he tapped his communicator, "I need auxiliary access to the secondary computer core."

["What for sir?"] A voice of the engineer on duty responded.

"I'm going to retrieve information that was lost in a data wipe which happened ..." He said as he turned to Rhys.

"... Fifteen minutes ago."

"Did you catch that?" The chief scientist asked.

["Aye sir. I'm going to have to redirect the computer function from the primary computer core to the secondary computer core. There won't be any disruption to computer functions but I should clear it with the Chief of Operations first."]

"That's fine." He said as the engineer processed the request to the Ops station on the Bridge.

["Transferring the computer function now 'Commander. Engineering out."]

"Now, if I remember correctly ... it .. should be right ..." he said before he stood up and away from the console Rhys had been working at. "Does this look like something you lost?"

Viara walked towards the console and her face relaxed as she saw what was on it. Tapping the smooth console buttons a few times she continued to process the series of calculations she had begun twenty minutes earlier. "Thank you sir."

The Lieutenant Commander nodded and turned to leave. "Oh Lieutenant'," he said as he turned back to the scientist, "next time make sure you submit a research proposal next time."

Rhys smiled and nodded before turning back to her screen.

USS Galaxy "Old Friends, New Enemies with a twist of Lemon"
Written By Lt Commander Kahn Nilani
and Lt Commander Steven Graves

Nilani finished her tea with Teb and walked out of Ten Forward 'Cathy .... Cathy, No I don't remember a Cathy' Nilani thought as she walked into the turbolift. "Sickbay!"

The Turbolift shot down the tube and stopped at the correct deck, Nilani walked out of the TL and down the corridor. She stopped for a second 'I wonder if it's the same Cathy on the ship' Nilani thought as she walked into sickbay.

Nilani moved to her office taking a look at the clean sickbay, Nilani smiled and turned to the face the staff in sickbay. "Good job guys, And that's from me and the Captain!" Nilani chuckled to her self as she entered her office. On her desk a new data padd was awaiting her personnel attention. She sat down and picked up the padd, the information displayed and she was rather surprised.

She looked over the padd to see if it was genuine, and sure enough it was. 'Lt. Commander Graves, wow I haven't heard that name in a long time."

She looked over the medical report, it was complete as usual. She sat back and started thinking.

**** Deep Space Nine, 2373 ****

Ensign Kahn Nilani was sitting at a medical station on second shift. It'd been a rather busy night -- Klingons fighting a couple of humanoids because they were drunk, some trader burned because of an EPS manifold problem on his ship, and the usually scuffle. Doctor Bashir had already been in to check on things, leaving Nilani in the Infirmary by herself with a duty nurse. She took a sip of her drink that she had replicated, it was to keep her awake while trying to read over another medical report from starfleet when a man had entered Sickbay holding his left shoulder.

A Human walked in to the Infirmary as he clutched his shoulder from the severe pain that was present. Nilani moved to the nearest bio bed and got the man to sit down, she pulled out a medical tricorder and scanned the area he was nursing.

"You might want to brace yourself sir. It seems you have dislocated your shoulder. This might hurt a little." Nilani said as she lifted the man's arm and quickly wrenched it out, the joint went nicely back into it's socket.

The Human wanted to yell at someone but the intensity of the pain went away quickly as he was left wondering why this doctor just tried to tear his arm from his torse.

"So how did you do it?" Nilani asked more sympathetically as his facial expression indicated he was starting to relax.

"I was using one of the holosuites in Quirk's Bar ..."

"... you mean Quark's Bar." the Bajoran corrected him.

"I was using a holosuite in Quark's Bar to try out one of the rockclimbing he has listed. The rockface I was climbing pretty good, but halfway up I nearly lost my grip. Trying to grab the nearest stable ledge I could, I ... well, pulled something in my shoulder."

Nilani looked back up "Your new here on DS9 or just passing through?"

"I'm a science officer on the USS Tecumseh. We're docking here until Thursday before we head off to begin an exploratory mission just inside the Gamma Quadrant. It's supposed to be for a few weeks -- just checking out a few planets and some ruins they found a couple of light years beyond the wormhole entrance."

Nilani moved to a table and picked up a hypospray, she moved back over to the man. "Well considering you won't be doing any physical exercise for a while, do you want a tour of the station?"

The scientist thought about it for a moment. Although he initially felt uncomfortable about accepting he was sure his fiancé wouldn't mind. "Sure."

She looked back to him and looked at the wall clock "Well what good timing I'm now off duty, I'll take you around the station and then stop off at Quark's for something to eat?" She moved to take off her coat "By the way, I'm Kahn Nilani and you are?"

"Lieutenant Steven Graves. Pleased to meet you Doctor." he said as he tried to extend his hand. The discomfort was still there even though the shoulder was put back in to place.

"Still a little sore?"

"You bet your life on it."

The Bajoran doctor picked up a hypospray and applied a mild sedative to the upper region of his arm. "You'll still be tender for a couple of days, but that will subside."

'Thanks Doc."

**** Back on the Galaxy ****

Nilani smiled as she remember the long tour she gave him, but best of all she remembered him as a happy man. Hopefully he hadn't lost that happiness!

Nilani pressed the button on the terminal, which activated the computer intercom system.

=/\= Lt. Commander Graves, please report to the Chief Medical Officer for medical examination =/\=

Recipe for a Wedding
by Lt Commander Endris Gakor & the Wedding Party
reviewed by Captain Price

*** Family Quarters, Deck 8 ***

Endris was feeling relaxed. Since reaching Star Base 61, repairs had come and gone. There were some interesting responses to her Bridesmaid offer. Numa had agreed to represent Fall, and had been seen in the airponics bay harvesting fresh ingredients. Nilani, influenced by impending motherhood, had decided Spring would represent her best. Ensign Hitchcock, walking now on his artificial limb, had seen her at a wine shop on the Star Base inspecting cases of Bajoran Spring Wine and purchasing mixings for Hasperat.

Cat was excited, and hustled around the ship. She had planed an excursion on the larger holodecks on the Star Base. (Angela Dana, whose promotion to Lt (jg) had been approved, spotted her going into a 'River Rafting' senario). On Cait, summer was one of her favorite seasons, when the Juniper bushes were in full bloom. She had a nifty family recipe for Juniper Berry pie that she had never shared with the crew, but knew it would fit in with this special occasion.

Gakor hadn't heard anything from Ronni, but the doctor was confident that whatever was distracting the Science officer would subside before the wedding. Just in case she would not be able to represent Winter, Gakor considered alternatives.

Endris was keeping a low profile, trying not to meddle too much in things. In her spare time, she had consulted the holographic Tailor and designed a bridal gown. She found a vendor on the Star Base that sewed the design from Tholian Silk and packaged it for the wedding day. Per Tellarite customs, Endris had not seen the groom in a few days. She was curious how a human would interpret the Oinkus of Joining of a Tellarite wedding. On one of her bridge watches, she had caught the Captain reciting memorized portions of the Scroll of Eternal Feasting which detailed Tellar's relationship with Cuisine. The watch had been quite routine, as most of the bridge positions were at station keeping.

At present, Adam was off with his father somewhere, and Endris was feeding Spines and the other Fish. She noticed Gandalf, Abrecht's cat, hiding under a chair. A twitching tail was the only sign of the feline. For some reason, the cat didn't seem to like Gakor, although he was neutral enough not to scurry away from the Doctor. She replicated some feline supplement 26, which the cat seemed to prefer. *Maybe the cat dislikes my ability to anticipate her finicky taste in food*, Endris thought before dismissing the absurd assumption. Lured from his hiding place, the cat moved to the food bowl as soon as the Tellarite departed.

Endris finished cleaning up from her Snack, and decided to beam down to the Star Base to shop for other items to complete the Wedding. Before she could do so, she saw the family terminal had a flashing message light. Pressing a button, she heard the computer voice declare there were two messages.

One was from Doctor Julian Bashier of DS9, Congratulating her on finding a cure for the Teresi virus. He also said unfortunately could not attend the wedding because he was busy working on a cure for the disease killing Odo and the rest of the Founders.

The second was a courtesy notice to all the crew, that the Galaxy would shortly be departing on a shakedown cruise to Tellar. *Snacks! Looks like the Wedding will happen as scheduled*, she thought with a smile.

Things were coming together quite nicely....

"The Bachelor Party" Part One

BY: Lt Cdr Sunder, Lt Chen, Lt JG Bolitho, Lt JG O'Connell, Lt JG Ral, Lt JG Elaiithin, Lt JG Heratta, Lt JG Gartner & Ensign O'Hare with a few words from Captain Price

Neil glanced round to make sure nobody saw what he was doing. Carefully he guided the large tarpalined object precariously balanced on a hover lift into the security brig making especially sure to be extra careful. After all it had taken Bolitho 3 hours of hard work on the Galaxy's industrial replicator to finally conjure up this work of art.

Neil quickly arranged the holoemmiters and the projectors around the room and off course on the cake. Standing back he wanted to run a quick test but Tim had the holoprogram.

' Where was O'Connell with the holoprogram, they were running out of time and if Lex saw what they were doing, there would be fireworks!'

Neil grinned mischievously it would be fun to see what Lex and Anna's reaction would be anyway! This holoprogram had better be worth the money they had spent on it. A Ferengi by the name of Sog, from Starbase 61 had accidentally overheard Bolitho and O'Connell discussing Lt. Cdr. Albrecht's surprise party, at the recreational bar there. He had come over and introduced himself and claimed he had the ideal program for such an occasion. After a extremely short private viewing Bolitho and O'Connell had scraped together what meagre funds they had between them too try and purchase the illicit holoprogram.

Upon learning of how much the two Starfleet officers had between them. Sog was quite unwilling to part with the holoprogram, but after a few hours of haggling and a visit to the nearest airlock, The two security officers had finally convinced the Ferengi to depart with the holoprogram!

Tim entered the holodeck 15 seconds later. "Hey Neil I got the program, would you believe that little bastard wanted to renegotiate... I just reasoned with him... Don't ask any questions ok?"

Grinning at Tim, Neil couldn't help but pry." The airlock again?"

"Neil, let's just say yes."O'Connell smiled and said 'Let's see if this is the real program and not some fake! If it is I will toss his ass out an airlock."

Neil broke out into a laugh " Ferengi tossing isn't a good idea Tim. The thunder cloud might find out and you know what a stickler he is for the rules!"

Tim grinned and replied, "Well, do you really think he'd be that upset?" Neil took the holoprogram from Tim's outstretched hands and placed it in the projector and pushed the play button. A scantily clad lithe green form appeared and started swinging her hips provocatively. Neil felt his jaw dropping and quickly clamped it but couldn't take his eyes of the provocative site 'Its been to long Neil' he thought to himself.

Glancing across at Tim he wondered how his friend had reacted to the surprise package! Tim stared at the dancing female form. "Well I guess Sog's lobes are safe for now." The woman was gorgeous. Tim looked over at Neil, "Uh Neil, do we need a mop for your drool?"

***Elsewhere on the ship***

Meanwhile.. Elsewhere on the ship.. Lieutenant Ral was making preparations. She'd been briefed by Door on the necessary arrangements. It was rather complicated, and the young security officer was amazed at just how much work one had to put in for a situation like this. Then there was the problem of getting the supplies to their destination. It would take ages for them to carry the assorted foodstuffs to the holodeck. But they couldn't exactly beam them into the security brig, as the program wasn't running, and they'd have a whole lot of food on the floor.

So she'd improvised, putting to work several members of security who grumbled about it, but the threat of fitness tests for all of them changed their minds. Astrid Salt muttered to herself as she carried a huge box of hors-d'ouvres.

"Lex.. this is slave labor"

"It's in a good cause.." Lex said, slightly out of breath

"Does the Captain know about this?"

"He will if anyone sees us" Sanchez put in

"Why do you think I'm using Security Equipment boxes to transport the stuff in?"

"Yea, but if they want to open them, for security reasons or something" Said Astrid

"We are security.."

"Oh yea.."

***Deck 38 security area****

With the ferengi finally cleared out of the way, Sunder was free to finish everything off. He surprised himself. He'd always imagined himself an unimaginative sort, but he had to admit that the room did look well-prepared. Well, maybe he'd had a little help from the computer.

He'd have actually preferred it if Cat helped him. In some anachronistically sexist way, females were still light-years ahead of their male counterparts when it came to designing a room. It was Sunder's opinion that women were born with some built-in Feng Shui sense that allowed them to automatically decide where a piece of furniture should be placed within a room to achieve optimal effect. The same applied to security cells.

But Cat was up to her eyeballs in muck and bullets. The new position she found herself in had swallowed up a lot of her free time recently. . Besides, he still needed to keep this within security for the next little while at least. All that remained now... was the prisoner.

He thumbed his communicator with a sly grin.

" Lieutenants Heratta and Elaiithin. You are ordered to find Lt.Cmdr Albrecht and bring him to holding cell 13 under my personal authority. Minimal force will be probably advised. Sunder out. "

Keeping himself tensed, he transmitted the following message to Albrecht. " Mr. Albrecht - prepare to receive security escort to the brig. "

Meanwhile...elsewhere aboard the starship Galaxy... In their quarters, Lieutenants Elaiithin Jii and Rotan Heratta received their summons from Lieutenant Commander Sunder.

"Just what we've been waiting for, partner. Let's move." the Bajoran said. "Indeed. Much preparation has been put into this." The Nausicaan replied, utterly deadpan.

Both donned their sidearms, and headed for the Lieutenant's quarters, where the computer informed them of his location. The two officers --- one a six foot three Bajoran, the other a seven foot plus Nausicaan made a rather intimidating pair--particularly armed. Elaiithin pressed the button on the door panel, and one Lt.cmdr Matthew Albrecht came to the door.

"Commander, I'm afraid you're going to have to come with us." Elaiithin said in a no-nonsense tone. "Commander Sunder informed me to be ready for escort. What's this all about, Gentlemen?"

"We are not at liberty to discuss that, sir. Please surrender your sidearm." replied Heratta to the Commander's questions. Albrecht complied, still seeming to be a little confused. The younger officers took up positions alongside him, and proceeded down to the brig.

*********Deck 38 Security***********

The lighting was turned down until it was almost bleary in the main security office as Lt. Cmdr Albrecht, escorted by Lieutenants Heratta and Elaiithin, appeared out of the turbolift. Neil Bolitho smiled knowingly and advanced on the Assistant Chief Security Officer.

Cmdr. Matthew Albrecht's eyes tried to adjust to the gloomy light, he could just make out barely the shadowy forms of other people standing around him. Suddenly a bright light centred on the form of Cmdr Albrecht, momentarily blinding him. Holding up his one hand to ward off the bright light, he noticed a figure standing in front of him.Squinting in the light he could just make out the smile on the face of Lt(jg) Neil Bolitho.

"Lt. what is going on?" Lieutenant Bolitho held up his hand to the Cmdr.

"Sir, I suggest you take this!" Cmdr Albrecht's attention was drawn to Bolitho's hand, which held a tall narrow glass filled with an amber liquid offered up to Matthew. Matthew's face frowned, but before he could say anything Bolitho pushed the glass into his hand."And this Sir." A small container was pushed into his other hand.

Matthew, without taking his eyes of the broad smiling security officer in front of him, brought the amber filled glass up to his nose and sniffed the musty, arid odour emanating from the glass. Returning Bolitho's smile, Matthew already knew what was within the container.

Before Matthew could say anything, Tim O'Connell pushed a rather large cake, balanced perfectly on a hover cart, into sight. A slow drum beat began as the cake split open revealing three green skinned Orion women dressed in very filmy clothing which left very little to the imagination. The women advanced upon the open mouthed ACSO and began pulsating to the drum beat, which was slowly getting faster and louder. Bolitho and O'Connell stood back as the three green skinned exotic women danced around Matthew Albrect.

The highly seductive dancing continued around Matthew as the lights grew slightly brighter revealing the majority of the male content of the security staff, watching the Orions with avid interest. There was a noticeable exception, at which Bolitho smiled. Lex, he believed, had a problem with Electra, the Orion hostess, being in the Ten-Forward.

Glancing around at the spread that Lex had set up, he could only agree with the Chief's estimate that Lexanna Ral's catering skills were exceptional. There were delicacies from all over the Galaxy, even some Gagh that Neil would be helping himself to later. Neil smiled to himself, he wouldn't be at all surprised if some escaped and found there way into ....perhaps Lex's and Tim's uniforms before the evening was over!

The drums reached crescendo as the green flesh swayed, teased, suggestively, provocatively at their one man audience, Lt.Cmdr Matthew Albrecht ACSO of the USS Galaxy.

Jii and Rotan were watching from the side of the room, the Bajoran munching on some authentic (as in non-replicated) hasperat that Lexana had somehow gotten ahold of. Rotan was munching on what looked to be a turkey drumstick, but Elaiithin wasn't sure.

He also noticed his partner was taking a healthy amount of interest in the Orion women.

"Partner, you're acting like you've never seen a woman dance that way before." Jii said, as a joke.

"I have not." the larger man replied.

Elaiithin nearly choked on his hasperat.

"What do you mean you haven't?"

"Naussican women do not display themselves in such a manner. I find it.....intruiging that other species do."

"Yeah, I bet." Jii frowned for a moment... "Hey, you don't see Lex or Anna anywhere, do you?"

Tim's eyes swept the room for Lex and Anna he was most concerned that the little officer would take some warped revenge on the crew for the orion slave girl dancers, when Eshar asked about the celebration Tim had cautioned her to wait 30 minutes then show up making the execuse that it was for fashionable late but she knew better. The dance winded down as Tim made a direct line to the snacks and spotted Elathain Jii and his roommate.

Rotan Heratta. Tim approached the two and asked the Bajoran, "What's up with tiny there... he looks like he has never seen a stripper before." Meanwhile, hiding in one of the weapons lockers was a thoroughly bored half Romulan. 'How long can those sodding strippers take to get their threads off' she wondered. She really didn't like Orion women, especially Electra..... A little light went off in Lex's head.. Wait a minute, there were semi-naked Orions out there and James was out there too...

"I have to get out of here." She murmured and tried the door, which of course, didn't open. After the panel didn't work, she simply threw herself at it bodily a couple of times, on the second try the door opened wide and out stumbled LtJg Ral, looking somewhat disorientated. Luckily no one noticed her sudden appearance, she straightened her tunic, adjusted her fake moustache and looked around. The strippers/dancers or whatever they were, were still doing their stuff, to a captivated audience. Well, the male part was captivated, LtJg Sanchez and Astrid Salt were more interested in the food,

Lex couldn't see Anna, she hoped she was there somewhere as she wanted to talk with her about... the incident.

LtCdr Albrecht was standing in the middle of the room, holding a glass and looking rather interested in the dancers. Lex grinned, walked over to him, stuck a handmade Cuban Cigar in his semi-open mouth and gave him a hug.

"Surprised?" She whispered

"Uh Hunh..." Matthew said, his eyes never leaving the dancers. She giggled slightly and wondered whether or not to tell Gakes about Neil being responsible for the Orions. An image of Dr Gakor chasing Neil around the ship with a meat cleaver suddenly popped unbidden into her mind..... 'Probably better not..' She mused. Leaving her friend to enjoy the show, she went to look for James. It would have been a whole lot easier if the lights had been on fully.

"Hey loser."

"Hi Astrid I love you too.."

"This chocolate cake is good.. You make it?"

"Yes, don't eat too much, it's loaded with brandy, you'll be sick. Or pass out, either way I'm not carrying your sorry ass to sickbay..." She giggled" How're you liking your new shift?"

"It's ok.. Wanna hear some gossip?"

"As always dear friend" The two leaned in, Astrid looked around in case anyone was listening

"Allright.. here it is.. Jii has a crush on Rotan."

"How'd you come up with that one?" Lex asked after a moment's silence

"Ok.. well first of all, he asks to be assigned in Rotan's quarters.. then he changes departments.. and asks to be signed up with Heratta as his shift partner!" Astrid finished, her eyes glowing in triumph

"Astrid.. Are you on White? You'd tell me if you were, wouldn't you?"

"It was just an idea. " She rolled her eyes "So.. you tell James you told Neil you were going to become a nun yet?"

"I Changed my mind.. And don't go around spreading gossip, you'll get into trouble. Incidentally, have you seen James?"

"Yes, I think he was talking to Neil..." She started to crack up with laughter as her friend left with a look of panic on her face.

Chen stood among the throng of security officers present for Albrecht's party. He had gotten back a little too late to really help with the planning, but it looked like everybody had done very well without him around. Normally, he would've avoided a party like this, but he considered Albrecht to be a friend and good officer. And he had saved Chen's life back on Sigma Iotia. He watched amusedly as the strippers moved back and forth, gyrating wildly, much to everybody's delight. He caught glimpses of faces he hadn't seen for what seemed like years. He smiled as the assorted officers whooped and hollered. He had seen and spoke to Neil for just a few seconds before the big man was pulled off to another direction. He caught sight of Albrecht and headed towards him, box in hand.

He tapped Matthew on the shoulder. "Congratulations, Commander," he said and handed him the box. Matthew turned and took the box. "What's this?" Chen smiled. "A little novelty I picked up in Luna City a while back. I thought it was pretty neat, and I think it fits the circumstances." Albrecht smiled. "So...When are we going to have one of these for you?" Chen winked. "You never can tell, Commander. Never can tell." Just then, a group of officers got between him and Matthew, giving their own congratulations.

Anna stood off to one side and watched everyone else having fun at the party. Try as she might she still couldn't get into the mood to enjoy it. Even though she had a lot to celebrate. They helped to save their timeline but recent reports of the Dominion war going badly with the arrival of the Breen has been on her mind. She hoped the war would be winding but now it's heating up.

Looking over the festive crowd she drew in a breath and walked into it determine to have some fun even if it kills her.

"Hey Gartner!"

Anna turned to see Lex weaving herself through the crowd to approach her. A smile drew across her lips as she looked over the half Romulan. "Say, nice disguise Lt."

Lex played with her fake moustache for a second. "Ya, but what happened to yours?"

"Not in the mood." Anna shrugged. "I guess I'm having a down day."

"A down day? Come on, we all got promoted and everyone is having fun. Have a drink and loosen up."

"No, NO alcohol! Put a few drinks into me, I'll either be dancing on the tables and probably falling off or picking a fist fight with every guy here."

The half Romulan laughed slightly. "Well, considering this crowd they probably wouldn't mind you doing the first option."

"I'm serious Lex. I can be dangerous if I get intoxicated or have you forgotten that I'm the one that's a few bytes short of a full meg."

"Well, have some punch instead. I helped to make it and it's alcohol free." Lex said leading the way to the nearby table. "At least try to look like you're having fun."

"Okay, I'll try but I'm not promising anything." Anna said as she grabbed a cup to pour herself a drink from the punch bowl. "So, I bet you're happy that with our promotions that we now get our very own quarters."

"Well, yes and it does solve our problem. Not that I have anything against your dating and making out with Kalln. I just don't want a front roll seat when the two of you decide to have the 'main event' again."

"I understand and I just like you to know that I wasn't being thoughtless that night when you saw us... I was just being completely horny." Anna smirked before taking a sip from her cup.

*** to be continued***

***

Back on the other side of the room, Elaiithin finally caught sight of Ral and Gartner talking. They seemed to be engrossed in something, and Heratta was engrossed by the sight of the Orion women, so Jii decided to go and bug Neil instead.

Halfway there, he was intercepted by a drunken Astrid Salt. She threw an arm over his shoulder and whispered conspiratorially.

"hey...have you heard about Lt Elaiithin?" she asked.

"Astrid," Jii said with exasperation. "I AM Lt. Elaiithin. What about me?"

Elaiithin didn't think Salt's eyes could have gotten bigger when she realised who she was talking to.

"Oh..uh...nothing! Nothing at all!"

"No..you meant something. What is it?"

"No..It's nothing!" Salt replied and started back-pedalling towards someone- anyone-else.

How very odd, Jii thought to himself. Humans are such a puzzling species. Maybe Lex or Neil knew what was up with her. The delay over with, Elaiithin started heading towards Bolitho again.

Neil smiled to himself as he looked around at the erupting party 'Things were going well, very well!' he glanced around the room trying to spot Commander Sunder, but the lighting was still pretty dim and it was difficult to really make anyone out in the dark room. Two figures he did make out where Lex and Anna standing by the punch bowl, the very same punch bowl he had just spiked with a couple bottles of alcohol, Southern Comfort, Vodka and a couple of other bottles from other planets that Electra had supplied him. Neil was still self congratulating himself when he spotted the same two ladies drinking from the punch. Neil stared at the two of them for a few seconds before his brain shrieked out its warning.'Oh God ....' Thought Neil 'Alcohol and Gartner definitely as unstable as putting a Romulan and Klingon in the same room!' Neil began threading his way across the crowded room towards Anna and Lex, when an arm on his shoulder spun him around.

"Neil going some where?"

Neil felt himself looking up at the imposing 6.ft3 figure of Elaiithin Jii "Jii ! I ...." Neil whirled around desperately looking in the direction of the two females security officers.

Both Anna and Lex had drained their cup's and were in the process of refilling them again, it was about then Neil noticed the ridiculous fake moustache that was hanging from Lex's lip, both females were laughing. Neil sighed knowing that the damage was already done and turned his attention back to Jii. "Sorry Jii, nope going nowhere, so you enjoying yourself?" Questioned Neil.

Meanwhile, Anna and Lex decided to liven things up.. Both had a handful of something intended to shock or gross out their unsuspecting victims. Lex snuck up behind Neil, whilst Anna had the idea to go for Heratta.. The gakh writhed angrily in Lex's hand as she advanced on her victim, she gently pulled back the collar of his uniform and let the little wormies drop down his back.. Then she ran like hell..

Neil, knowing who it was as out of some kind of basic survival instinct, let out a yell and pulled off his jacket, trying to shake the gakh out. Then he went to the buffet table, grabbed a handfull of potato salad, and looked for any half Romulans. He saw her, giggling in a corner and let fly with his missile. Lex- seeing she was about to get it, ducked out of the way.. resulting in the missile hitting LtCdr Sunder's uniform with a resounding SPLAT......

Fortunately, Neils situation had given Rotan sufficient warning to pick out the approach of Anna. "Don't even think about it, little one!" Rotan let out in his usual baritone voice. Seeing that the jig was up, she decided to just throw the Gakh at him. The result was a face full of worms for the mighty Nausicaan. Laughter errupted from everyone around them as Rotan wiped the slimy creatures from his face, all the while glaring at the tiny form of Anna...

Rotan Heratta next did what any Nausicaan worth his blood would have done. Turning toward a small table where several pies had just been layed out, he reached beneath it and lifted it into the air. Anna for her part only stared, at first not quite understanding what he was doing.. "You wouldn't dare!" She yelled, raising a hand defensively in front of her as if to ward off some evil.

"I would!" The Nausicaan yelled back as he sent the entire table worth of pies hurtling through the air. Now, the physic's envolved when several pies launch toward a target at once are quite interesting. The table off course, falls short of the target. Some of the pies do the same. Some find other targets. And of course, as is legendary..the creme pies find the true target. Anna had nowhere to run as three of them soared home, impacting across the face, chest and legs

Rotan Heratta was satisfied.

Anna Gartner was majority pissed!!!!!!!!!!!!

She slowly reached up and wiped away the remaining cream pie that was clinging to her face, which was also in her hair and covered the front of her uniform jacket and pants. Anna looked down at herself then back up to the Nausicaan just a few meters from her. Immediately everything went red...

Rotan Heratta watched Anna's eyes as he could see the whites all the way around them and instantly knew he was in trouble. 'Oh yes.' He just remembered 'She's the crazy one on this ship... This should be interesting.'

Anna let out a screeching cry and charged at him. Had it been an average Joe, he would had ran from the sound of her voice and the sight of the raging ferocity storming across her face. However Rotan Heratta was a highly discipline warrior and Anna Gartner was slightly drunk. The 5' 3" and 109 pound human female barrelled right into the outstretched hand of the 7' 3" and 340 pound Nausicaan male. Rotan Heratta basically caught her by the forehead and stopped her in place as Anna took several wild swings, hitting only empty air.

'She has spirit!' Rotan Heratta admired silently. As he held her at bay, Anna continued to swing aimless at him. 'And a one track mind.' He later mused.

Lex, watching from her hiding place took great satisfaction in the fact that Jii was also pied by a stray lemon soufflé from the table Heratta had thrown. The lemon goo dripped off his nose, he looked rather surprised and a little miffed to boot. Lex giggled loudly, then was silenced as something cold and mushy slid very slowly down her back. She froze and turned to see a grinning Cmdr. Albrecht with an ice cream scoop in his hands. She shivered slightly as the double chocolate chip reached her spine, taking only a moment before retaliation. There was plenty of ammunition to choose from, she picked up the nearest object, which just happened to be a punchbowl, and poured the contents over his head, some of it splashed on Sunder's uniform too, Lex noted that at least it would get the potato salad off. Matthew looked rather amusing, with lemon slices adorning his head, and punch dripping from his clothes. He did the only logical thing a man in his position would do and, grabbing a bowl of cheese dip, he advance upon his junior officer, fully intending to dump it on her head.

Lex, not wanting to wear it, ran for it, accidentally shoving a rather confused O'Connel into a plate of hors d'ouvres. before grabbing hold of Lt Chen and hiding behind him.

"Save me" she yelled

"From what?" He asked surveying the chaos with half amused smile

"That" she pointed to the advancing form of Albrecht and the cheese dip "Oh crap!" She belted off and hid under one of the tables.

Tim was observing the chaos with an amused expression when the speeding figure of Lex shoved him over and he fell right in to a platter of deviled eggs, he was not happy. He saw a large section of cake sitting right there and decided to get that woman. he picked up the chunk and saw a figure moving with decent speed. He fired one large section and WHAM the cake struck home against the face of Lt Rotan Heretta the large naussican's face was covered with chocolate and he searched for the perpetrator. Tim ducked behind an overturned table and searched for more food.

Food was flying in every direction .Lt Commander Sunder sighed as he tried to wipe the potato salad of his uniform with a napkin. Let them have their fun he smiled slightly to himself as Astrid Salt complete with a cheese dip ran at him in a zig zag fashion. Sunder let the smile drop from his face and brought on his normal imposing image which stopped the Ensign in her tracks.

With a single shooing gesture,The Chief Security officer sent the young ensign on her way fortunately her next victim which by the way was Tim O'Connell hiding behind his table.

Sunder turned back to the party his attention drawn to a figure standing quietly watching the security's officers antics. Ursa's eye's narrowed at he tried to make out just who was.......

"Attention on the deck." Growled Sunder and everything came to a complete halt,

Captain Price was standing near the corridor entrance with his arms crossed and an amused expression on his face. "G'day 'mates. I figured I would pop in and see how the party was progressing." Lee took a couple of steps forward into the now silent room. People were standing around, either half naked or haft covered in food. "I must say, these bachelor parties certainly have changed a lot from what I remember back in the Academy...." The Captain stopped at the food table and picked up lemon meringue pie and held it in one hand while swiping the angel white topping with the other. "Yummm..." Lee moaned joyfully sucking on his finger, "my favourite."

The Captain then pivoted on his heal and smashed the pie into Mathew's face, sending lemon and white meringue all over the room.

O'Hare had gotten up, looked at the situation for a moment and decided to take the initiative. The only one in the room not dripping, slipping, or sliding in something was the Captain himself. Picking up a strawberry pie, complete with a mountain of whipped cream, she walked over calmly to introduce herself, keeping the pie completely hidden behind her back.

"Captain Price, I'm O'Hare. Ex-counsellor, turned......"

Elaine brought the pie out with lighting speed and as she nailed the Captain right in the face, she gruffly spat out:

"SECURITY OFFICER!"

The noise level in the once silent room rose to a roar as a faceless voice could be heard from the back of the room yelling "FOOD FIGHT!" which restarted the chaos of the party.

*** Fin***

"Holoquest"
by Lt. T'Zaq

The black and yellow grid lines on the holodeck flickered softly as T'Zaq ran the static loop repulsor over the main holoemitter controls. During the rift incident, it seemed that a couple of circuits had crossed somewhere in the holodeck systems, and although there had been no reported problems yet, if left unattended this could soon cause serious malfunctions in the holodeck systems. T'Zaq hoped her sign outside the holodeck would alert people that she was performing maintenance - since the holodeck had to be running to diagnose the problem, she couldn't shut it down to prevent anyone from entering.

"Almost there..." she muttered as the loop repulsor began to blink and flash rapidly. "It must be in here with the program parameter controller... there!" She allowed herself a small smile of satisfaction as the replulsor indicated the exact point of the short circuit. She reached down to grab a microwelder from her toolkit, on the floor.

Suddenly, the lines on the holodeck flickered and died completely, leaving her in darkness. T'Zaq's eyes adjusted quickly, detecting a faint red glow from somewhere on her left side. She dropped the loop repulsor and felt around on the floor, trying to find the flashlight in her tool kit. With a start, she realized the kit was gone. As her eyes began to adjust more to the darkness, she noticed it had been replaced by some sort of large, elongated object. She gently picked up the object and turned it over in her hands. From the feel of it, she decided it might be some sort of a sword, apparently in an ornamental scabbard. Grasping the hilt, she pulled the two pieces apart. Indeed, it was a sword, and quite an elegant one too. The long, slightly curved blade glowed faintly purple, lending enough light for T'Zaq to see around the rest of the room. She seemed to be in a small, empty room with stone walls. A heavy metal door stood directly before her, with a small barred window at eye level.

"Computer...?" she ventured. "Why has my engineering toolkit been replaced with a.. sword?"

"Unable to determine. Holodeck inventory confirms presence of one Starfleet Engineering Toolkit."

One eyebrow climbed her forehead in the darkness. Well, this was certainly entertaining, but it was interfering with her repairs. "Computer, end program."

"Unable to comply. Program termination has been locked out."

"By whom?" T'Zaq was beginning to become frustrated. Only another engineer could lock out program termination, and everyone knew she was performing repairs. Who could have done it?

"Lord Rabban." the impassive voice replied.

"Computer, arch."

"Unable to comply."

T'Zaq sighed in frustration. So she was trapped. Affording a glance down at herself, she noticed her Starfleet uniform had been replaced with some drab-colored rags. Probably appropriate to a dungeon prisoner, she realized.

With most of her avenues of escape blocked, T'Zaq tried to think of some alternate methods of getting out of the dungeon.

"Hmmm.... Computer, please replicate one lightsaber."

"Unable to comply. That object is unavailable in the current... program..." With a burst of static, the voice faded.

T'Zaq sighed. Well, whoever had programmed this simulation had certainly been thorough. She would somehow have to make due with the objects available to her. Dropping down to the floor, she felt around for anything else in the cell. All she recovered was a small dagger, probably what was left of her dropped static loop repulsor.

It only took the clever engineer a few minutes to figure out that the dagger was small enough to fit in the large keyhole in the door. With a tortured moan, the rusty door swung open. T'Zaq tiptoed out of the cell into the hallway. A lit torch on the wall provided a flickering, ruddy light. She followed the hallway out, gingerly moving past the sleeping guard sitting just outside the short passage.

~Well, I apparently was not an important enough prisoner to warrant being held in a high-security facillity.~ She noted.

Ascending the stairs to the surface, T'Zaq found that she was in the middle of a bustling medieval village square. People wandered to and fro down the dusty streets, going about their daily business. No one seemed to care that a tall stranger with a glowing purple sword had just stepped out of the underground dungeon.

~Now to find this 'Lord Rabban' character.~ she thought to herself. ~Seems as though he's the only one that can possibly help me get this holodeck operational...~

"Getting to the Bottom of Things"
by Lt. Commander Tebrianne Bancroft
and Lt. Commander Khan Nilani

***

Tebrianne walked into Ten Forward and took a seat near one of the windows. She glanced out at the other ships in orbit of Starbase 61. Part of her wanted to get away from the ship and go somewhere for shore leave. Another part of her wanted to just lose herself in the new program she'd designed for the holodeck.

"You're looking a little gloomy today," a voice said from behind her. It was Raoul. He was the only one who ever talked to her in Ten Forward recently--other than the brief visits she'd had with Jules.

"Cheers, Raoul." Teb turned as the Alpha Centauri set a glass of iced tea in front of her. "How have you been?"

"Good," he said with a smile. "I was playing mad scientist the other day and created a new drink. I

haven't named it yet, but I'll have to make it for you sometime."

"That would be smashing," Teb said, grinning for the first time in what felt like forever.

"And you're smiling."

"Every once in awhile, I still do that."

"Still bad?"

"I don't know," she said. "I haven't talked to Ben in a week. I've been spending a lot more time in the holodeck recently, and I can't remember the last time I picked up my guitar."

"Well, that drink may be just what the doctor ordered," he said. "Hang tight right here, I'll be back in five minutes."

"Hurry. I've got a holodeck reserved in just over an hour."

"Hurrying," he said as he rushed off toward the bar.

Teb turned back toward the windows looking out over the station. She was lost in thoughts of the new holo-program and didn't hear Dr. Khan's approach.

"Hi, do you mind some company," Nilani asked nodding to the seat opposite Teb

"Not at all," Teb said. "Have a seat."

Nilani sat down and a waiter moved to her, she said something to him and he walked off. Nilani then turned back to face Teb she cleared her throat and smiled.

"Have you noticed anything strange with Ben?"

"You mean other than the fact that he's completely off his nut? He dumped me because there was someone else and then told me that I stole him away from his previous girlfriend. I don't know what's going on with him, but he seriously needs to talk to a counselor."

Nilani looked surprised "What girlfriend!" Nilani thought for a second "He hasn't had any other girlfriend on the ship other than you."

The waiter brought over a plate of food, Nilani cut a piece off "Do we know who this other girlfriend is?"

"Before he and I started seeing each other," Teb began, "he was seeing another woman. Her name is Cathy and Ben says he loved her. He says that I took him away from her--seduced him just like...just like Commander Casey. I don't know who she is. But, Ben said some really harsh things to me when he broke it off. I thought I knew him, but I guess I was wrong." Teb clacked the chrome stud in her tongue against the back of her teeth and looked at Nilani. "I almost married him, and I never knew anything about this other person--this Cathy. I agreed to marry him. I don't know what I was thinking. Now, he just stalks around the ship like that bloody tiger tattoo he's got on his chest. He is one twonked up bloke. I don't think he went back to this Cathy person, or anyone else. He will barely even acknowledge my existence anymore. I still feel the hurt, but I think I'm better off without him."

Teb knew it wasn't true. She missed Ben. She still loved him--or part of her did. The rest was still numb. She tried to come to terms with what happened, and her mind would just rebel. She'd pick up the guitar and no music would come. She'd been spending a lot of time listening to music--hardcore music that melted speakers and shattered eardrums. She was still angry over what had happened. Teb could feel herself getting upset as she thought about it. She could feel the feelings stirring again. She had to let go, and get through it. She had to find the music again.

"I don't know," Teb said. "I think I just need some shore leave to think things through and get back to myself. I got so wrapped up in Ben, that I forgot who I was. I mean, look at this?" She pointed to her raven locks. "My hair is black. It's natural color. I haven't had my hair like this since I was thirteen. Ben says I played mind tricks with him? Well, dammit, I think he played a number of them on me too. If you'll excuse me, doctor, I have a holodeck reservation I need to get to."

Nilani thought for a second on the name. "Cathy... No, I don't remember a Cathy. As a matter of fact just before you went out with him, he was trying to go out with me." Nilani took another bite of her food. "Teb, don't worry. I'm going to run some tests on Ben and I'll get down to an answer for you. Oh and have fun in the holodeck, and be careful. don't want another patient to work on!"

It was a long moment before Tebrianne was able to speak again. How many bleeding women was Ben trying to go out with before he settled for her? Cathy? Nilani? Betta? How many more? Teb could feel the anger flaring inside of her. Directed at Ben. And Nilani. He was going to be the woman's children's god father. There was more there than Ben had ever told her. More lies. Everything was lies.

"You don't have to worry, doctor," Tebrianne said. She felt the strain in her voice as she spoke--a need to release. Not here. "I'll be fine. And, I don't need any answers regarding Ben. Like he said, it's over. It's time for me to move on with my life."

Teb pushed her chair away from the table and stood. She regarded the doctor one more time and had to wonder what her motivations were. Did she want Ben for herself now? So she mentioned how he had pursued her...the god father of her unborn child? She was first. Well, as far as Teb was concerned, the good Bajoran doctor could have Benedict T'Kal.

Tebrianne Bancroft spun on her heel and strode out of Ten Forward. She really needed that holodeck now.

******************************************************
Lt. Tebrianne, USS Galaxy, Chief Helmsman
tebrianne@elsinore.net UIN# 2172851

The Tebrianne Bancroft Archive. Now Online!
http:/www.elsinore.net/tebrianne/
******************************************************

"Medieval Setting... Same Rules..."
by, Lt. Raesene Hermedhie
----------------------------------------

Raesene and Dierdren were walking together when they heard a series of strange noises coming from Holodeck 1. Normally, they would ignore them, but the noises sounded like some sort of medieval town. And there were sounds of battle as well. Intrigued the two paladins decided to look in. Seeing nothing but darkness, the two entered further.

The doors closed behind them, and their eyes began to adapt to the darkness. Looking around, they found themselves on the outskirts of a small city, reminiscent of the city of Bindier in Brosengae. On their world. Glancing at each other, they noticed that they were dressed in the clothing of merchants. Not particularly successful merchants, either.

Raesene spoke first. "Computer: Whose program is this?"

||Lord Rabban's||

Raesene was surprised. Then he said, "Computer: Replicate swords and armor of this period."

||Unable to comply||

Exasperated, he tried one more time. "Computer: Transport medieval weapons from my quarters to our prescent location.

||Processing...|| Suddenly, a bright blue light flared briefly, and sitting off to the side of the road were a pile of Raesene's weapons. ||Process Complete|| Then a burst of static signalled the end of the computer's part.

"Interesting..." Turning towards Dierdren, he said, "I guess this is all we get... Pick your weapons, and let's go find this Rabban." With that they split the swords, daggers, bows, and arrows, and headed off into the town.

"Trapped..Naturally."
by Lieutenant JG Elaiithin, Security

Elaiithin spun on his heel as he passed a featureless tower. If he was right, that was the tower he was looking for.

He had returned to the holodeck half an hour past, and found his program alredy running. Not surprising - Rotan had been intruiged when Jii told him of it. The Bajoran was surprised, however, to see Lieutenant T'Zaq, Lieutenant Hermedhie, and Lieutenant Dierdren on the participants list as well. He was much better equipped, this time, having replicated clothing and weaponry appropriate to a Moon-Elven warrior. As far as the program was concerned, he was an elite Elven warrior, and not a Bajoran security officer. Immediately after entering, he'd tried to contact any of the other participants, but the computer had decided not to respond, it seemed. After trying several times to summon the arch, Elaiithin had decided there must have been some sort of malfunction. The computer was letting people in, but not out. It also wasn't acknowledging commands, save for informing him that "Lord Rabban" was in charge.

Made sense. Since when do holodecks ever work right?

The Rabban reference also made sense. He was the leader of the evil army that was going to invade Waterdeep. So, now, Elaiithin had to locate his fellow officers, and figure out how to end the program.

Which likely meant seeing it through it's programmed course - the Death of Lord Rabban, and the defeat of his army.

Elaiithin's eyes turned back to the featureless tower again, and he approached it. This was the sanctum sanctorum of the city's Archmage, Khelben "Blackstaff" Arunsun. Arunsun was also the leader of the Harpers, a secretive organization of independent agents, who maintained the balance of good and evil. Elaiithin, as a Harper (or, his character in this holo, anyway) reported to him. The Archmage would also be able to help Elaiithin locate Heratta, T'zaq, and the others.

Hopefully.

“Far Too Long and Not Enough”
USS GALAXY
Commander Deiran Casey

*One week prior to Stardate 49905.20 *

Casey was sitting at his desk, reading reports, dealing with requests from the departments, filling out reports, giving orders and everything else that XO’s do on a daily basis. The job was more demanding than people realized. More demanding then Casey realized.

Over the last month, Deiran had been soul searching. Looking deep down inside his character and wondering who he really was. He realized with the Erikson encounters that maybe his XO command style wasn’t working and he would have to change.

Change… not an easy word for someone like Deiran Casey.

He would constantly tell Miran how misunderstood he was, but the real truth was he was just an egotistical know-it-all like his father. He was Iceman. A man of confidence, assurance and undying faith in the absolute impossible. That was just who Casey was. Deiran doubted people could ever really change.

But, Casey had experienced tragedy in his life. He almost lost Miran. He lost his firstborn son. He had made so many mistakes in his life he was embarrassed to even think on them.

When Deiran thought about his friends, he couldn’t really say he had any accept for family. Miran was a given, she was his love, best friend all in one. There was Lucas, whom he’d known since the Academy. He had Troy before he was transferred and Chris Hallor who died while stationed on the Essex. But for the most part people hated his guts.

He knew it. Miran knew it. Heck even Lara knew it and she was two.

Casey was alone in his office. An office he had taken over after Joerg left. He missed his old friend. Joerg was his friend. So that was three he had. He realized as he sat in his chair that the office was empty. He had been so busy in the job of XO, he never decorated the XO’s office.

“Computer turn lights down 50%,” he said. The lights dimmed to near darkness. An environment that mirrored Deiran’s soul since losing Dalane. He hid it from Miran, hid it from Karyn and hid it from Lee.

Deiran sat there looking into nothingness. His eyes glazed, his body still. There he stayed for an hour contemplating his life and taking inventory on himself as an officer and as a man, as a husband, as a father.

Whether he liked it or not, Deiran Casey had to change.

But how? How could a man like Casey, bred to lead, born to be a legend, change? Granted Casey was a legend in his own mind. But legends had to start somewhere. If they didn’t start in a person’s mind they would never become reality.

How did you change? It’s not like Casey could use an eraser. He was a person, with definite ideas on how to do things.

Then as all kinds of ideas rushed through his mind. He had a breakthrough.

Friends.

He needed friends. If he changed his attitude so that he was more of a likable person it could help him in the other areas of his life. He could still be confident, assure but just tone down the ego and the talk. Still be Iceman, the fearless exterior but be human and embrace all the advantages of that humanity.

“Computer, lights to full,” he said, the lights went back to 100%, illuminating the room. “Display personnel records of senior staff who have things in common with Commander Deiran Casey and Casey Ti Miran,” he asked.

The list was accessible seconds later.

“Computer, begin recording… Dear friends, Miran and I cordially invite you to an evening of food, fun and stimulating conversation. Please join us at 6 p.m. on Stardate 49905.20 in room 818, deck 8. Come and enjoy the evening with us. Commander Deiran Casey.”

“Computer send to the following people: Captain Lee Price, Cadet Alexa Casey, Lt. JG JL Brandis, Lt. Commander Ronni Morris, Lt. Commander David Mercury and Lt. JG Jordan Arisa, Lt. Commander Hunter MacKenzie and Lt. Commander Kay Samara, Dr. Kahn Nilani, Dr. Felicia Khatroweena and Lt. Commander Ursa Sunder, Lt. Karyn Dallas. End recording.”

The computer complied and sent the recording in text to the address-ees.

Now all he had to do was convince Miran to come out of her shell and help him plan the evening. Knowing his wife, it would not be easy. She did not like big crowds, there were times when she couldn’t talk to him much less fifteen people.

*Present Day- 4 p.m. *

Miran was giving Deiran the silent treatment. She was still not happy about this whole thing. But he knew that she would need to get used to being an XO ’s wife and eventually the wife of a Captain and an Admiral.

He knew there would be a fight on the horizon. But for now he concentrated on the dinner. He thought of everything. The guests would serve themselves on the buffet table he set up. It was a long table, covered in a white cotton tablecloth and on top were the foods for the evening. Everything from Barbecue ribs for Lee, making sure the Barbecue sauce was from an Australian recipe to delicacies from Cait for Cat. Orion dishes for Ursa. Bajoran gourmet dishes, Terran dishes, you name it any kind of food you could desire was on the table and if it wasn’t there Deiran had it in his quarters’ replicator just in case. Typical Casey, prepared for all outcomes and situations.

He wanted this to be perfect. He wanted his guests, his sister and even Miran to see a new side to Deiran Casey.

*4:50 p.m. *

The door chime rang at the Casey’s door. “Come,” Miran said.

The doors opened to reveal Alexa, smiling brilliantly and holding her famous Apple pie. Wearing a short black dress, modest but fashionable, high heels and her hair long and flowing past her shoulders. She looked quite excited.

“Hi Miran,” she exclaimed and gave her sister-in-law a loving hug. “I thought I’d make my apple pie. Deiran loves it and maybe some of the other guests will too.”

“Have a seat,” Miran smiled. “Thank you for bringing the pie,” Miran walked over to the table and set it down in a prominent place.

Deiran walked in, wearing his black suit, white shirt but no tie. His hair was dry and not combed back as usual, his bangs leaning over the right side of his forehead. He smiled at Alexa when he saw her. “Sunny!” he said and walked over to give her a hug.

“So when do the guests start arriving? Can I help with anything?” Alexa asked.

“Nope I’ve done everything already, just waiting until six. You look great. Be sure to be nice to everyone, I don’t want them to think all Casey’s are like me,” he replied. He looked away and counted the chairs he’d set out for everyone, making sure he had enough.

Alexa looked at her brother in shock. She had never heard him talk like that. It was then that she knew something was odd, that the usual protective exterior Deiran erected around himself was gone. She saw her brother, the brother she had known her entire life, absent of masks and it was indeed a shock.

For the next hour Sunny AKA Alexa, Deiran and Miran talked about the war, about family. Deiran told some dumb jokes and they waited for the guests to arrive.

"Ex-Traitor" - Part II
Lt(jg) Jonathan Brandis
Assistant Chief of Operations

Lt(jg) Yazron Beq
Tactical Officer

***Bridge***

"Brandis to Bancroft." Lt. Brandis called out to the air in front of him upon tapping his Starfleet emblem.

=Bancroft here, Lt.= Came the reply.

"Captain Price would like you back on the Bridge in one hour, I'm recalling the officers on Starbase. We will be departing shortly and the Old Man wanted you to oversee our launch from 61." Lt. Brandis reported respectfully and somewhat ironically.

=I see. I'll be on my way soon. Bancroft out.= The Lt. Commander was obviously busy and ended the conversation quickly.

Brandis didn't mind though, he was still bothered by how Lt. Beq had recently recieved an unauthorized coded communication. But, he managed to hide it, while he was 'in command' of the Bridge, while at space dock.

***(5 hours later) Brandis Quarters***

When Lucas turned into the corridor in which his quarters were he saw Yaz already waiting for him, a look of anxiety on his face. The feelings he was emanating were so strong that Lucas could feel them without trying - nervousness, a little fear even. This was important.

Yaz looked up and spotted Lucas as he approached. He gave him a weak smile. "I take it I've got a lot of explaining to do?"

Lucas just nodded, not wanting to take the conversation further until they were inside, and in privacy of his own quarters. He reached past Yaz and activated the door pass sequence and input his entrance code. The doors slid open, revealing his large quarters, unusual for a junior officer. Yaz had heard the rumours of Lucas using his position to his advantage, but he had ignored them, knowing that they were true. He had afterall earned the respect of Starfleet and the United Federation of Planets, why not a little more space?

"So, Yaz, care to explain now." Lucas said as the door closed behind Yaz, he wore a cold stare, sorting out the emotions.

"Well, I suppose we had better sit down first - this is going to take a long time...." Yaz replied, shifting slightly under Lucas' cold stare.

"Have a seat, my shift is up. Care for a drink?" Lucas asked, always a good host.

"Yeah, I'll take a Trill Spring water." Yaz replied

Walking over to the replicator, Lucas called out, "A Trill Spring Water ...And a cold Pepsi."

The warm glow of gathering molecules composed themselves and Lucas took up the drinks and placed them on the hovering geometric shape that served as a coffee table in his living room.

"I need a reason for this communication, Starfleet regs and all that." Lucas paused, not wanting to sound too formal. "I know you have one, Yaz and you know you can trust me. I'm here for you, whatever you need."

Lucas was trying to be as assuring as possible. He remember Yaz not being this nervous at his own wedding a few months back. He leaned forward and looked the Lt. jg. in the eyes. "Tell me."

Yaz was shaking now, only a little but noticable. "Erm....well......it all started three years ago" He said finally pulling himself together. "When I was onboard the Valiant. I was assigned to flight-control. One mission gave me an inside look at the Maquis." Lucas didn't like the way this was sounding already. "They live in little more than caves, in near-starvation,with no medical supplies." Yaz paused. "I was beamed down as part of an away mission and made contact with one of the leaders. He made me feel sorry for him and requested that I help him. I agreed." Lucas' held his calm, but Yaz couldn't look at him, he felt like he had betrayed everyone. "I arranged with a freighter Captain who was sympathetic to their cause to have medical supplies sent to them. However, word got out that they were on their way to deliver the Maquis with weapons. The Valiant was sent to stop them and I was at helm. I purposely lost the freighter so that the maquis would have some medical help. We returned to Deep Space Nine, where a Maquis agent was stationed, he gave me a neural implant to block my thoughts, just in case. He knew that Trill's were hard to "read" anyway, but it was just a precaution. After that I came into contact with him, once giving him information about the state of outposts near the Badlands and then to tell him I would no longer be communicating with him. I thought that would be the last of it. Now he contacted me again a few hours ago. I....don't know what to do."

He started crying, which was unusual for Yaz, only once before had he cried, when Lorraine had been injured due to her taking up residence with Yaz on his last assignment.

Lucas was trying to absorb it all. It wasn't everyday that you meet a traitor. But, his empathic side could tell that he meant well. The best of intentions still couldn't excuse this type of behavior. To intentionally lose a freighter and disobey a direct order by his own Captain. This was an act of treason. This was a friend.

"I can understand why. But, Yaz, this is insane. You are a traitor to the Federation."

"I know what I did was wrong, it was a long time ago, and I got away with it. I stopped when I realised the full extent of what I was doing. I was helping an organisation who attack civilian colonies of both the Cardassians and us! But it's all over now, I swear!" Yaz's eyes were still filled with tears.

"Okay, so your what?" Lucas couldn't hold back it; he didn't like the knowledge he'd just gained. "An Ex-triator!"

"I should go to Starfleet and hand myself over, I've betrayed you, Lorraine, Starfleet, the Federation everyone! I deserve to be locked up!" Yaz's tears still ran and he couldn't think straight.

"No, you didn't do anything wrong. Certainly not something worth losing your career over." Lucas was thinking a mile a minute. All of his years of ethics training and philosophy of rules and principles were being challenged. He wanted to turn in the traitor, but he'd done nothing but help out a few sick or starving rebels, even it they were the enemy.

Yaz began to bring himself back under control, he wiped the tearsfrom his face. "OK. But I need to do one thing. The Captain is a just person. If he sees that I have done wrong and thinks I should be punished then so be it!" Yaz looked up at Lucas again. "And I want you to come with me."

"I will." Lucas replied, knowing the road ahead would not be an easy one.

"Tour de Force"
by Lt. Cmdr. Ronni Morris
ACSO, USS Galaxy

The beaker of shimmering green liquid sloshed almost over the sides as it was slammed down on the spectral analysis sensor. Ronni activated the tests and sat back in her chair. A bad week had apparently decided to become worse.

Greer leaving due to his illness was horrible. Not being given the Chief of Science was just obnoxious. The worst thing was that she had really wanted to hate the new officer, but he was nice. That bugged her the worst.

When the test rang as completed, she returned the beaker to the cooler and left the lab. Glowering all the way to her quarters, she changed into her cold suit, grabbed her ice climbing gear, and headed for the Holodeck. She loaded in the new holoprogram that Karen Davies-Jeppo had sent her.

As the doors opened, Ronni entered and looked on in awe. In front of her was a 350 meter glacier of white/green ice. The wind howled and flecks of ice stung her cheeks. It was beautiful.

"Computer, where is this iceberg located?" she queried.

"Planet T'Hoth, Southern Hemisphere. T'Hoth System." the computer replied in Karen's voice. Ronni jumped. Just like Karen to do that!

She pulled her grimper shoes out of her backpack and put them on. She then pulled out the piton belt and put that on. She placed the gyro spike launcher on the ground and closed up the backpack with rope, tent, food and water packets, and extra pitons.

Picking up the launcher unit, she started walking, looking for the best place to scale the wall. She took the binoculars out of their case at her hip and examined the scene. About three hundred yards later, she found a suitable place to do the climb. It was colder in the shade of the wall, but it was better protected from the wind and it's blowing ice chips.

Raising her arm almost straight up, she pressed the actuator on the gyro spiker and the spike shot up and speared the ice wall. Testing the strength of the hold, she kicked at the ice and began her climb.

*** Six hours later ***

The wind was much colder here, but she felt great. She had conquered the wall. Looking out she saw mountain upon mountain of ice. Her skin stung from the blowing ice chips, but she could hardly feel it. The stress of the past week laid in the crevice behind her.

"Computer, End Program." Suddenly the ice fields were gone, replaced by the black room with yellow grids. With her head held high, she returned to her quarters with a renewed sense of assurance.

In her quarters, in a mood to reminisce, she put on the gown given to her by the android Harcourt Mudd [See the logs on the Galaxy's website labeled "Batteries Not Included] when the Ferengi's working for him kidnapped her not long after she had joined the crew of the USS Galaxy. It was a long gown made of a filmy orange, blue, yellow, and green material. It pinned at the back of her neck and was backless. The back was rather daring and came down to just below her kidneys. It was cut to not interfere with her gills at the neck. She loved it because it was completely retro.

Taking one of her crystal carvings from her shelf, one of a woman in a long flowing dress and long hair. Her head was thrown back and her arms outstretched. She was singing to the heavens. It was one of her favorites, but she felt that this would appeal to Lt. Cmdr. Graves' wife. She held it carefully and walked to the new Chief of Science's quarters for the dinner she had been invited to.

"Justice"
by Tebrianne Bancroft

***

Shadows lurked in every corner. Watching. Waiting. Men and women--decent people--stayed to the pools of light that dotted the streets--lights that offered a glimmer of hope against the scum that hid in the darkness.

A couple moved quickly from streetlamp to streetlamp. Eyes strayed toward the alleys that beckoned them. Eerie noises from deep in the darkness caused hair to stand on end. They would soon be home. Safe behind the locks and alarms that protected them.

Or so they thought.

They entered another pool of light, gauging the distance to the next. Moving through the light as quickly as they could, neither of them saw the shadow emerge from the alley. A flash of movement escaped their nervous gaze. The shattering glass snapped them back to reality as the light in which they were bathed faded into darkness.

Ambush.

Two shapes descended quickly. Quick jabs put the couple to the ground with cries of pain. The stripping of wealth came next. Wallets, watches, and other assorted jewels quickly disappeared into a bag made of canvas. More beatings to teach them a lesson. Once the darkness falls, the streets belonged to the shadows.

But not anymore.

A shadow blocked out the moonlight and both of the crooks glanced skyward. A billowing cape thrown wide as a figure glided toward the ground from the rooftops. It dropped to the pavement, going to a knee. Her armored helmet snapped up to catch them both in a crimson gaze. The two glowing eyes would be etched in their minds as they licked their wounds.

The crooks bounded forward and swung at the newcomer. The body armor wasn't a hindrance as her slender form dodged the flurry of fists and feet.

"Looks like she has a little spunk, eh Rollo?" called out the first one. "Gonna be fun peeling off that armor to get a look at the tasty goodness inside."

A gravelly laugh erupted from Rollo as he landed a blow to the caped figure's mid-section. His laugh was short-lived as her hands quickly wrapped around his wrist and twisted. He spun away from her and found himself tumbling through the dark night air.

"Rollo's not going to like that," the first crook said, pulling a switchblade out of his jacket. "I think I'm going to have to carve you out of that little outfit you're wearing."

The crook lunged. The dagger cut through the air where its target had been moments before, but found nothing to bite. A hand closed around his wrist. Pressure. His hand popped open and the knife fell to the ground.

"I want you to send a message to all your mates," a mechanized voice said from within the mask. "Tell them the street has a new protector. Tell them that Nighthawk is watching them."

"Piss off," he blurted.

Another pressure point. The man writhed as his legs gave out. "Tell them, mate," she said again. "Or, I'll be very upset." She hit the pressure point again. "You don't want to see me upset. You understand me?"

Tears filled the man's eyes as he nodded frantically. His mouth moved soundlessly. He definitely understood.

"Good." Her hand slipped up to his shoulder. "Don't forget to tell your friends," she said, and tightened her grip. He slumped to the ground in a heap.

Message delivered. Hopefully her efforts had started him on the road to rehabilitation. If not, their next meeting would be ugly.

***

Tebrianne walked through the corridor, still in the costume she wore in the holodeck. She could feel the stares of the people she passed as they checked out the body armor formed to the shape of her body.

Two hours of the program, and she was exhausted. But it was amazing. Especially the parts where she was jumping off the tops of buildings. The Nighthawk program was going to have to be a daily routine. It was far too much fun to let sit in the memory banks of the ship's computer.

******************************************************
Lt. Tebrianne, USS Galaxy, Chief Helmsman
tebrianne@elsinore.net UIN# 2172851

The Tebrianne Bancroft Archive. Now Online!
http:/www.elsinore.net/tebrianne/
******************************************************

"O'Hare VS. Shtik"
Ensign meat truck Elaine O'Hare
Brig Boy Lt. Shtik

Even though counselor Dallas and Doctor Khatroweena's examination had interrupted Shtik's first chance to sleep, he was relieved to be returned to duty. He was certain he had plenty of work ahead of him restoring damage done to the various experiments and lab equipment throughout the science department. But for now he was waiting for the return of Counselor Dallas and Ensign O'Hare.

The conditions of his stay had relaxed considerably. The force field had been lowered, the officers on duty were allowed to speak casually to the science officer, and Ensign Salt had returned to the cell with a batch of cookies for the former prisoner in thanks for his rescue of her. Meanwhile, Elaine slipped into her new uniform and proceeded to the brig. The only thing left on her mental "to do" list was confronting Shtik. She needed to resolve this issue and close the door on the painful memory of that night. While walking to Shtik's cell, the officers on duty waited with baited breath, knowing full well that the inferno was headed straight towards the Lieutenant. Shtik was forced to raise his hands over his head as Cat ran her hands over his chest to examine the wounds to his ribs. And since his hands were out of the way, Salt was feeding one of her cookies to her savior.

The tension had definitely been relieved in the security office when a new red headed security officer strode boldly into the room.

"Who are you?" Salt asked, sitting next to Shtik.

"I'm Ensign Elaine O'Hare, security officer." She spat to the harem-like tableau within the cell.

Shtik rose and crossed casually to the new arrival. "Greetings Ensign, I am Lt. Shtik." He said almost cheerfully, "I have been eager to meet you. I believe Counselor Dallas is looking for you now. Would you care for one of Ensign Salt's cookies? They are actually quite good."

She put her hands and her hips, narrowed her eyes, and stated roughly:

" No, I would not like a cookie! Lt.. Shtik! Turn and meet the person you don't remember assaulting!"

"Yes, I have heard that was the case and I know that apologies are the required response among humans; therefore I wish to formally offer my deepest and most sincere apology for the events that transpired last night. Had I been released sooner I would have acquired some sort of gift to accompany the apology. I do believe that is the proper procedure, is it not?" Shtik tried his best to by pass his Vulcan demeanor and appear more sincere. "Perhaps I can acquire dinner and a play for you when we arrive at the starbase." He offered.

One of the young ensigns in the room who had heard of O'Hare's famous duels with Lt. Neil Bolitho, backed way up in to a corner and quietly muttered:

"Oh shit."

Boasting once more, a nice chrism color to her cheeks, the Ensign started in, in a calm and demure voice. "Let me first apologize to you, Lt. Shtik, for what I'm about to say. You see sir, I'm just a human, full of feeling and emotion. I come nothing close to Vulcan's superior emotional control. That is, unless they are in heat. Which happens every 7 years. Tell me something Shtik, is that why Vulcans are the way they are?"

Shtik started to answer but was interrupted. O'Hare started slowly walking up to the Lt.., who had his hands behind his back, just standing there.

"Proper procedure prohibits me from executing what some would call violent tendencies towards your person at this moment."

Elaine's eyes got bigger and bigger with each phrase she spoke. Still under control, she was fast reaching the boiling point. "I understand that you have no recollection of the incident that took place in your quarters and I fully do not understand why you are apologizing for something you supposedly can't remember. Unless there's something in the back of your mind that does remember and you just don't want to admit that, for fear of my wrath. Which is something you should greatly fear right now Lt.. Shtik."

O'Hare continued to advance, staring right into his soul with her piercing eyes. Shtik decided by this point to avoid attempting rebuttal.

"Oh, and another thing, I will gladly accept your dinner invitation only if the main course is Vulcan stew. And cut out the sincere crap, it doesn't work with me." O'Hare stated icily. As Shtik backed away from the exploding woman before him he slapped the controls to reactivate the restraining force field when he crossed back into the safety of his cell.

Elaine stood fuming at the cool expression of the Vulcan and was about to wipe the smug expression off his face when Karyn strolled in. She took in the scene and hit the heel of her palm to her forehead, "And me without my holo-imager...it's too bad, I'd really like too capture this moment for posterity."

The hurt expression on Elaine's face was not lost on Karyn. "I should have never agreed to come here. If you'll excuse me..." Elaine turned to leave the brig and headed to her new office in Security.

Karyn turned to face Lt.. Shtik.; "Be right back." She then turned to face Ensign Salt who by now was watching the scene with fascination, while also munching on one of her homemade treats. "Aren't you late for aerobics?"asked Karyn innocently. Astrid, as if suddenly aware of what she was eating, dropped the cookie and made a hasty retreat, stopping long enough to give Karyn a dirty look.

The Counselor shrugged then headed in the direction of Elaine's office. Karyn found Elaine standing in front of an observation window, tears streaming down her face.

"I won't go back out there, you can't make me."

Karyn listened quietly and waited for the explanation she felt sure would follow. "It's like he doesn't even care! Oh, let's appease the stupid female, make her think I feel remorse. He acts like it didn't happen!" Elaine balled her fists for emphasis.

"In his mind, it didn't." answered Karyn matter-of-factly.

Elaine looked as though she was about to blow a gasket. "WHY DOES EVERYONE KEEP TAKING HIS SIDE?"

Calmly Karyn answered, "I'm not taking anyone's side, Elaine, I'm simply trying to see both sides. You have every right to be angry and feel the way you feel but so does he. You can't expect him to change, just because you need him to. I arranged this meeting so you could tell him how you feel, get it out in the open. Regardless of how he reacts, you need to put this behind you, for your own peace of mind. Now that you know his reaction, you are the only one who can decide the best way to proceed.

"I could talk to him until I was blue in the face and he still wouldn't give a damn. I'm not cut out to be a counselor, I never was. Just forget it. I'm just giving you more headaches than you need." She turned her back to Karyn once more.

"Coward." The Counselor said it with finality, as if not intending to offend, just stating a conclusion. Karyn watched with amusement as the realization of what her former CO had said to her.

"Excuse me?" replied Elaine incredulously.

Karyn answered her with slight annoyance, "What's the matter Elaine, you can dish it out but you can't take it?"

Elaine looked shocked, she couldn't believe what she was hearing. Karyn continued.

"You're running away Elaine. At the first sign of trouble, you bailed out. You can't run from your emotions. Ignoring them won't help, nor will you're changing departments help."

This caught her attention. "Is that what you think this is about?"

"I'm just telling you what I observed." stated Karyn.

"I transferred to Security because I knew I'd be happier there. I'm a loose cannon. I was driving you crazy!! I never belonged in the Counseling Department. I was never really one who could listen to others whine about their problems. I prefer a more direct approach."

"You mean beating the snot out of them?" asked Karyn with sarcasm. Elaine shrugged.

"Well," said Karyn with slight amusement, "you certainly have gotten more people's attention that way." Both young women laughed. More seriously Karyn added, "Let me tell you something, Elaine, you're going to have to learn to get along with EVERYONE no matter what department you're in. Security officers do not get a license to use physical violence to bulldoze through their problems. More often than not, they rely on logic to get them out of harm's way. I want you to be happy but I need to know you're doing this for the right reasons."

Elaine nodded, taking everything in. "I am happy. You're right, we won't get anywhere if either one keeps losing our tempers." I need to put this behind me. She stood up to follow Karyn.

"Shall we?" asked Karyn, gesturing for Elaine to go ahead of her. Elaine, smoothing the creases out of her uniform and wiping her remaining tears, followed Karyn out of her office.

Karyn gestured for Elaine to sit across from Lt. Shtik. Karyn positioned herself in the center. "Now, I think Elaine would like to begin. Elaine?"

O'Hare just sat there, not saying anything for a moment. "I…I'm having a hard…."

Karyn listened carefully. The discussion was interrupted by Karyn's comm.

[Dallas here, go ahead.]

[Lieutenant, I think you better come to sickbay. It appears Ensign Uhura issuffering from amnesia. We could use your help down here.]

Karyn sighed. [I'm on my way.]

"If you'll excuse me, I'm needed elsewhere. When you two have talked everything out, Elaine, see that Lt. Shtik is released to his quarters. I don't want to hear that Security had to throw both your asses in the brig...again.  Is that clear?"

They both nodded. Karyn turned to head to the next crisis. At least they were talking and no one else had decided to throw punches...yet.

O'Hare patiently waited until Karyn was out of the brig. Standing up over Shtik with a serious look on her face she stated:

"I will come back to you when I'm ready, and not before. Please stay away from me until then. Good day….Lt."

Elaine turned on her heel and curtly walked out of the brig.

"Dinner is Served"
by Lt. Cmdr. Ronni "Party Girl" Morris
ACSO, USS Galaxy

Turning sideways, the sound of bells jingled softly. Ronni had to admit that she REALLY liked the view. She was surprisingly excited about this evening. After two months of stress, she finally felt more like herself.

She turned again and admired the dress and accessories. The design had been in the ship's computers. Surprisingly, or maybe not, it had been based on a sketch by Tebrianne. "The woman has GREAT! taste!!" she said smiling. Turning away from the mirror, she gave a little wiggle and a smile.

On the table was a platter of her new favorite dessert. It was called Baklava, apparently an old Greek and or Arabic dessert. I was sweet, flaky, and decedent. Simply wonderful. "Computer - time" she said while tasting a small piece of the pastry.

[The time is 1910 hours]

'Good,' she thought. 'Everyone will be there. Now for the big entrance.'

She picked up the plate and headed for the door. Derian and Miran lived in the quarters next to hers, so it wasn't exactly a long walk. At the door, she touch the door signal. The door opened. Miran's jaw almost dropped to the floor when she saw Ronni. Then she chuckled and said, "Oh Ronni, please come in."

Deiran heard his wife chuckle, and turned to look at what. What he saw was Ronni in a mostly sheer, skin tight cream colored floor length gown, with a half meter length train. A gold belt hung loosely around her waist. Her straight black hair was pulled up and away from her face, held there by a swept back crown of gold, with a myriad of bells hanging from the points of the crown. She had large dangling ear rings of golden bells with a matching gold necklace. With her blue skin, the effect was stunning. When Ronni laughed or moved, the bells ran lightly. Deiran knew it was going to be a fun evening.

"Holodeck 1"
by Lt Cmdr K'Eytyanna Samara,
Assistant Chief, Engineering - USS Galaxy

K'Eytyanna rolled over and looked for her chirping combadge. It was sitting on the night table, so she gave it a hard wack with her fist to activate it,

"What is it now?"

[Umm.. Sir, we are getting some strange readings from Holodeck one. Some sort of program has taken it over and the power cannot be cut to it. Sensors register a few crewmembers in there. Lt T'Zaq is supposed to be conducting some repairs, but she is incommunicado. All the other senior engineers are busy with repairs.]

"Hmm.. Okay. I'll check it out. Have a cutting team on standby though. If we have to, I want a big hole burnt very quickly through that holodeck door. I'll leave that to the Bridge though."

Getting up, she picked up her combadge and headed to the replicator, where she ordered a stimulant in the form of caffeeine-rich cola.

"Computer, give me a summary of the computer program running in Holodeck One."

[Medieval fantasy set on the planet Toril. Owner is Lord Rabban. Current setting is to disguise all advanced technology as medieval items, and replication of items is turned off.]

"Hmm.. Computer, are the safeties on in Holodeck 1?"

[Affirmative.]

"Okay. Computer, load up a full Engineering schematic of the holodeck 1 systems and dump them into my replicator's buffer. Next, convert the schematics into Federation Standard text and diagrams on waterproof vellum using high-quality black ink."

[Working... Done.]

Moving over to her replicator, she took the sheets and examined them.

"Computer, replicate a waterproof scrollcase and a suit of platemail armour, medieval style with internal padding."

While the replicator worked, K'Eytyanna retrieved some weapons from the wall, just in case, and left a note for Hunter.

Putting the paper in the scrollcase and getting into the armour, she hefted her heavy broadsword amd a steel shield before heading to Holodeck 1, ignoring all the shocked stares on the way.

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

Reaching the door, she waited for it to open before entering, knowing that she was very well prepared.

"The Perfect Crime"
by Lieutenant James Chen
Security Officer

Chen walked into his quarters, toweling off the sweat from a long workout. He went into the bathroom and took a long shower, letting the water get the kinks out of his muscles. When he came out, his comm station was beeping. Chen trotted over and hit the receive button, sitting down to look at the monitor. The seal of the Federation appeared briefly, then blinked out. In its place was a man. He had a yellow collar and wore commander's pips. He was handsome with a dark head of hair. He smiled when he saw Chen. "Lieutenant! How are you?"

Chen shrugged. "Just fine, Commander."

"Matt."

Chen smiled. "James."

Payne smiled back. Then, his face grew somber. "We found him."

Chen leaned forward. "This transmission secure?"

Payne nodded. "Nobody taps my line. Nobody. Besides, I told the communications officer this was a secure for-your-eyes only message."

Chen nodded back. "Where?"

Payne looked down, then back up. "You sure you want to do this? I mean, this isn't something you can just turn away from."

Chen nodded slowly. "I've thought it through. I owe him. Big time."

"I provide you with the location and that's it. You'll get no help from me. Even if I do understand it."

"Do you?"

Payne nodded slightly. "I think so. I might do the same thing if I were you."

Chen smiled. "Well, give me the location. I'll handle it from there."

Payne smiled and told him the planet. Chen smiled and shook his head. "Just like him."

Payne snorted. "You can get a transport from there?"

Chen nodded. "Yeah. I'll arrange for shore leave and hire a shuttle to take me down near there. I know a couple guys near that sector who could help me the rest of the way. I shouldn't be gone for more than two weeks, tops."

Payne smiled at Chen. "You take care of yourself. Watch your back."

Chen smiled back. "That's what I'm best at, boss."

Payne chuckled. It was forced. "Don't I know it." He leaned forward and pressed a button, cutting the transmission.

***Five Days Later***

Chen sat in the smelly older shuttle, swaying back and forth the way an old sailing boat did. He had certain thoughts as to the age of the shuttle. Like it was older than he was. By many years. Chen shook his head as they bounced again, the engines whining under the strain. The pilot looked back at Chen and the other passengers, both Ferengi. "Sorry," he offered before having his copilot yell at him. He spun quickly around and started smashing his fists on the controls.

Chen sniffed, then immediately regretted it. He glanced over at the Ferengis, who were looking at his bag, eyes shiny with greed. Chen sneered at the Ferengi, who immediately looked away. The rest of the ride was like that. It was the fifth most unpleasant experience of Chen's life. He disembarked at the main spaceport of Alpha Collari Prime.

Alpha Collari was arguably the largest, most disgusting cesspool of a planet this side of Ferenginar. The whole planet was dark and drab. The buildings were dirty and everywhere Chen turned there seemed to be somebody urinating on a wall. Chen took a room in a grime-encrusted motel and went to his room. It smelled vaguely like a Klingon had died and was still decomposing. Chen stripped off the civilian jacket he had bought three days ago in a little shop at a way station for a decent price. He couldn't go around dressed as a Starfleet officer for this job. He took a shower and quickly redressed, putting on a dark blue shirt and black pants, shrugging into his jacket again. He walked to the address Commander Payne had given him. It was a small apartment building. It looked far below the standards of the he was looking for. Desperate times...

Chen walked to a small restaurant across the street and sat down at the window. A large waitress slowly ambled up to him and asked him what he wanted. He ordered water. She left and came back about thirty minutes later with a glass of brown water. He looked at the water fearfully, but didn't say a word. There he sat for the next two hours, watching the apartment closely. He finally saw the man he was looking for come out of the building, his arm around another man. The two kissed then walked down the street. Chen got up quickly, paid for the water and left.

The two men went around town, running errands and having fun. They ate dinner in a nice restaurant, laughing at each others jokes. The two obviously cared for one another. They were enjoying the Bajoran's return home. When the two returned home, it was late at night. The Bajoran tapped in their security code and went in.

Inside the apartment, the two made love. When they finished, the Bajoran turned and closed his eyes. He felt his lover's finger trailing the scars on his back. The Bajoran looked over at him. "What are you doing?"

The human shrugged. "Just looking at your scars."

The Bajoran smiled. "Really? Why are they so interesting?"

"Just thinking how that Cardassian monster could hurt you so badly."

The Bajoran shook his head and turned back around. "I've forgotten it. Why don't you?"

"I can't. I missed you too much. Where have you been?"

The Bajoran shrugged. "Doing my job."

"You were gone longer than usual."

"This job was larger than usual. I was paid well, though."

"Rylar, I don't care about the money. Just you."

Rylar smiled. "Without the money we'd be homeless. I've got to make a living. I'll be leaving again in a few weeks."

"Why?"

"My employers say that they want to hire me for another job. They're gaining some new property and there may be some trouble."

The human sat up. "Why are you always gone?"

Rylar looked over at him. "I'm not. This is my career. Why can't you understand that?"

"I don't care. You haven't been home longer than a month this year. I miss you."

"Hey, I miss you, too. I have to do this."

The human shrugged and stood up, putting on his pants. The Bajoran sat up. "Where are you going?"

The human looked back at him. "Out. I just want to get some things for breakfast tomorrow."

The Bajoran looked concerned. "You're not mad?"

The human shook his head. "No. Really. Just a little disappointed. I understand." He smiled at Rylar and walked out. The Bajoran sighed and turned out the light. He thought that maybe he would take the night off. He smiled and began to drift off. After several minutes, his eyes snapped open. He felt something, like somebody was standing over him, watching him sleep. Rylar swallowed hard and reached under his pillow, grasping for the small hand phaser he kept under it. It was gone. The feeling grew. He looked around, his eyes accustomed to the darkness. He could just make out the outline of a person. "Luther, is that you?"

The man laughed. "I'm afraid not. You know, you really should get better security installed. The place is simply pathetic. For that matter, you shouldn't have a permanent residence, given the business you're in."

"Who are you?"

The man sounded offended. "Don't tell me you don't remember. My, my, how easily they forget the little ones."

The voice was definitely familiar. The Bajoran began to sit up. "What do you want?"

"Everything you have."

"There's money in the safe in the wall, just behind you. The combination's--"

"Wrong."

"What?"

"That's not what I want. And you know it."

"Well, what do you want?" The Bajoran's voice was panicked.

The man threw something on the bed. The Bajoran picked it up and examined it. It was mini-disc player. "Hit play," the man demanded.

The Bajoran followed instructions. Suddenly, the small scene appeared and began to play. On the screen, a man was sitting in the corner of a room the Bajoran was very familiar with. He was curled in a ball. The Bajoran saw himself straighten his clothes. "Thanks for your help, Mr... or I guess Lieutenant Chen. You have been of tremendous assistance." The Bajoran turned and began to leave. The man on the floor mumbled something. The Bajoran stopped and looked at him. "What was that?"

"I'm going to kill you," Chen said hoarsely, looking up at the Bajoran. "One day, I will find you. It may not be soon. It may not even be in the near future, but I will track you down. And when I do, you will die. You will simply turn around one day, and I'll be there. You'll be asleep in your bed and awake to find me standing over you. And then, you will die."

The screen went blank. The Bajoran looked up, he could feel the blood drain from his face. "My God. Chen?"

The man didn't move. "I'm here to fulfill my promise, Rylar."

The Bajoran shook his head. "No. You're a Starfleet officer. You can't commit murder. Besides, you don't have it in you."

"Is that right?"

Rylar sat up straighter, marshaling his courage. "Absolutely. You may arrest me, but you won't kill me. I know you too well."

Chen chuckled. "Looks like you called my bluff." He hit the lights. The room flooded with brightness. The Bajoran shielded his eyes until they adjusted. Nobody else was in the room and Chen was just standing there with a smile on his face. The Bajoran looked confused. Chen looked around the room, a look of astonishment on his face. "What? Where are the authorities? They're not here!" Chen's face suddenly grew hard. The Bajoran yelped and tried to get off the bed quickly. Chen was on him in an instant. He wrapped his left arm around his neck and gripped his right wrist. He pulled back, applying more and more pressure. Rylar slapped ineffectually at Chen's wrist. Chen leaned in close. "You took from me everything I believed in. You made me betray my friends. You crushed everything I was and remade me into something else. This is what I am now, you bastard. You think you know me? You don't know a thing about me. You created this. And now, let me show you your work." Chen pulled up suddenly and twisted to the right. He heard the bone snap. Rylar spasmed in Chen's grasp. Chen looked up to the ceiling until the man stopped moving.

Chen smelled the foul odor of excrement as Rylar's bowels loosened. Chen stood up and walked to where he had set the hand phaser. Chen spat on the body, then set the phaser. He aimed and fired at the body. The body disintegrated. He looked at the empty space where Rylar had been just a few seconds ago. Chen turned and quickly ran out of the room and headed to the lift. He quickly exited the building and walked away at a leisurely pace. He paused several blocks away, and pulled out the small phaser. He removed the tiny power pack inside and dropped the phaser into a small trash receptacle nearby. He threw the small pack down an alley three blocks away. He then turned and headed for his motel. When he got back to his room, he turned on the faucet in the bathroom and splashed the cold water on his face. He looked up at himself in the mirror. He threw up in the sink. When he was finished retching, he looked back up at himself, forcing himself to look hard into his own eyes. He didn't know if he liked what he saw or not. But, that was all that was there. His hands were trembling. He took several deep breaths and the trembling stopped. Chen closed his eyes and walked back into the bedroom.

He lied on the bed and wondered about the authorities. Alpha Colari was a pit. People were murdered left and right in the city. The cops were corrupt and nobody cared about a suspected felon disappearing in the night. Besides, he'd planned out this job very carefully. He'd taken looks at building plans and the security systems. They were easy to bypass. The human hadn't gotten a look at Chen. If the police cared enough to look at the names of people who'd arrived and left within the time of the disappearance, they'd find a number of names and none that made any sense. Chen had enough sense to come under a false identity. He'd make a brief stopover in Kotari IV and disappear. He'd be a ghost until he arrived back on the Starbase. In the end, he fell back on the very skills he'd learned just a few months ago. Skills that had been taught to him by a criminal of the highest caliber. Anything not taught to him then he'd been learning since he was a child. And he was still an expert in modern investigative methods. Every base had been covered. He'd left no trace that he was there. And the phaser, if it was ever actually found, would never be connected to the crime or Chen. He had worn gloves. Chen was pretty sure it was untraceable. No, the matter wasn't whether he'd be caught. It was a matter of whether he could deal with what he had just done.

"City of Splendors"
by, Lt. Raesene Hermedhie

Raesene and Dierdren continued into the medieval city, amazed at its sheer size. It wasn't as big as City Anuire, but it was definitely up there. However, the most interesting portion of the city was a series of massive temples, the largest being to a strange goddess named Mystra.

Apparently, she had saved the city during a period called the Time of Troubles, or the Godswar. According to what they had found out, there was a nasty overgod that could throw all the other dieties to the planet's surface.

But the city's wonders did not stop there. There were massive towers, a mountain, supposedly riddled with a series of passages and keeps. There were strange creatures, completely unlike the elves, dwarves, and halflings from their world. But the wonderous creatures did not end there. There also were griffons and pegasi under the city guard.

And then there was the dragon. A small white dragon was sighted flying over the northern part of the city. The two Anuireans had never before seen a dragon. They were legendary creatures, and there were said to only be about half a dozen on the continent of Cerilia.

But apparently this draogn was a resident of the city itself. It was called Snowflake, though Raesene suspected that that was not it's real name. Then again, who knew with these magnificient creatures.

However, any inquiries about this Lord Rabban were shunned, almost frightfully. By this, the two paladins were able to figure that this Rabban must be some sort of crime lord. And as such, their guard was now up.

"Thoughts of the future"
By Ensign Elaine O'Hare-Yes, her again

Cat gave O'Hare the go ahead too make more room in the sick bay, and she was able to finally head back to her quarters and start straightening the whole damn mess out. Cat's only restriction was that she stayed out of the counseling department until Elaine was 100% better and back to feeling like herself again.

Walking back to her quarters, she nodded as people passed and greeted her. The doors opening, her new room mate Counselor Garcia was not there, but the condition of the quarters made it abundantly clear she had been. Clothes was stwren everywhere, glasses, paper, everything a mess. Nothing of Elaine's personal stuff, so Elaine really did not care right now. The most important thing O'Hare needed at the time, was to be left alone. So she could think.

The ensign moved slowly over to the replicator, requesting a cup of Chamomile tea. Grasping the handle of the cup, Elaine hoisted herself slowly over the debris that was scattered throughout the room and grabbed a thick comforter from her still straightened bed. Elaine proceeded to meander over to the couch and sit upright in a fetal position. Covering herself with the blanket, she held the cup of tea with her two hands, feeling the warming comfort of the china against her skin. All was quiet, something that had not been around since the day she stepped aboard the Galaxy. Craziness had engulfed her and was attempting to swallow her whole.

O'Hare was tired. Tired of getting beat up in every way. Tired of being out of control, drunk, angry, scared, and frightened. Tired of getting slammed up against a corridor, being talked down to, talked about, harassed, looked at and gossiped about. The most upsetting thing to Elaine was that she brought it all on herself. Maybe it's my way of adjusting to a new situation Elaine thought. She was joking herself. If only Elaine wasn't such a hot head all the time, counseling would be her forte'. But, unfortunately, O'Hare was beginning to see herself in a different light. An aggressive, off the cuff person, organized, yes, self disciplined, absolutely not. The ensign did not mean to cause such problems, but always seemed to back herself up in a corner. Having to fight to get out of the very corner she put herself in.

The people she was getting aquatinted with, where just that acquaintances. The only person she considered to be her friend at the moment was Lt. Tim O'Connell. He was truly her knight in shining armor. Always there to lend a hand, give a hug, carry her when she couldn't carry herself. Genuially giving a damn about person Elaine, not the fighter, or the sayer of harsh words. Somehow, only he had cracked the hard exterior she showed to the world.

O'Hare sighed, looking around the quarters that were dark, the same color of her mood at the moment.

She switched thoughts in a flash from Tim to Neil. Unlike Tim, Neil seemed harsh and abrasive. Neil reminded Elaine of herself, except that he had somewhat of a little more self discipline. After hearing about Neil hitting Tim, her admiration for his fighting skills and manners sunk to a brand new low. Elaine did not quite understand why Neil would go on such a rampage, hurting someone close to her, in that violent manner that he did. The ensign thought the Lt. had somewhat of control about him. At least, that's the image that she received from Neil in the holodeck, when they were sparring.

Her heart saddened, seeing a friendship so close, slip away so fastly. If only she was strong enough, to go see Neil and find out what promoted him. Elaine didn't think it was the picture, unless, Neil didn't believe Tim, which was sadder still.

Elaine's thoughts switched once more, concerning her job. Was she really meant to be a counselor? Or, did someone have an other calling for the ensign. One, that would bring out her natural skills and abilities. One of the main questions that lingered in O'Hare's mind, How can she expect people to come to her for help, when she can't even control her own feelings, let alone understand them?