"Caught In The Cross Hairs"
Dr. Roman O'Neil, ACMO
NPC Dr. Lara Spier

***CASSDAHR, CARDASSIA PRIME***

The Cardassian, Ferib, had left the group of survivors but he was not happy with the outcome. If the boy hadn't fallen when he did, they would have driven the Federation voles out of the city. Alas, the human doctor had to save the day and become a hero. He kicked a pebble out of frustration.

Contacting Ragavahn in Icarian City that the military officer, Glinn Magatt, had been killed by rogue Jem'Hadar just made matters worse. The glinn had gotten sentimental about this ruined city and became an easy target for the enemy to pick off. Ferib, on the other hand, hated Cassdahr when it was even in it's glory, being forced to relocate here during Gul Dukat's regime.

He glanced back to see the human doctor administering drugs to the people. His anger boiled over. How dare they treat him this way, a Cardassian nationalist whose very existence was to make Cardassia strong again, a power that made others tremble.

He decided to take matters into his own hands. He dropped behind a pile of rubble, pulled out his disrupter pistol and afixed a scope to it. Lying on his stomach, he peered over the edge, looking through the scope for his prey. He finally got the human in the cross hairs. Sudden movement caught his attention and using the scope, saw two centurions running to the doctor. He would have to work quickly.

He lined up the doctor in the cross hairs again but this time the human wouldn't stay still enough. The doctor was moving from person to person, bending down to reload the hypospray, then moved about again. Ferib waited for the clean shot, knowing full well the centurions would reach the spot within twenty seconds or so. It came. The old man blocking his shot moved out of the way. He couldn't get the other's heart as the doctor was turned slightly but it was still a frontal target. "For Cardassia" he whispered as he pulled the trigger.

Roman didn't know what hit him as something impacted his upper right chest with such force that it sent him flying back into the crowd.

The last thing Roman saw was a phaser beam cut across his line of vision at the sniper's location. A voice, Chen's, hardly audible to Roman was calling out "Doctor!" As he laid on the ground, a circle of Cardassians stood over him soon followed by the familiar security lieutenant whose words were lost to him as he slipped into unconsciousness.

***USS GALAXY, 2 HOURS LATER***

Roman's vision was hazy at first, he could barely pick out the three people beside him.

"He's coming around." It sounded like Dr Lara Spier. The blonde physician's features soon sharpened into focus. Beside her was Angie and Michael "Mikey".

Angie, a tear streaming down her cheek, smiled. She gave him a hug, careful of his wound. Her expression hardened a little. "What the hell do you think you were doing down there?"

Mikey spoke up. "Dad, you got a cool scar about this big!" He held his hands apart exaggerating just a bit. "Doctor Spier said when you're better she'll use the dermal regen...a thing to fix it up." It was just like his son to find such things exciting.

Roman rubbed Mikey's head and the younger O'Neil whined, "Quit it Dad, you'll embarass me." Seven years old and already worried about his image.

"Don't worry. I think your reputation as the toughest seven year old in the quadrant is still safe." His father teased him and got a mischievous grin as a result.

"This isn't a laughing matter, Roman." Angie was quite serious, stroking her husband's cheek. "You could have died down there. I don't understand why you wanted to leave the Starbase, we were all safe there."

He had this discussion with her before. The Prince Of Wales coming apart around them and his close call from a sniper's disrupter blast, was renewing her argument.

Mikey, holding a toy phaser, pretended to shoot one of the patients. The injured security officer, with his thumb and index finger symbolizing a gun, fired back. Mikey's eyes went wide and the officer smiled and winked. The youngster relaxed, smiling back. He turned back to his father. "Lieutenant Chen captured the guy who shot you Dad, he's in the slammer where giant rats will feast on his guts and-." His mother interrupted him. "Mikey, that's enough." The boy, scolded by his mother, became quiet.

Roman readdressed Angie's question. "I'm Starfleet, that's what I am, I can't change that."

She bent down and kissed him. "So stop playing some damn fool before you do get killed."

Dr. Spier returned, glad to see the assistant chief was making a full recovery. She decided to keep the fact he almost died on the operating table to herself. "I'm sorry but Dr. O'Neil needs his rest."

Angie worded 'I love you' before she left and Roman felt content with what that feeling did to him...for all of 30 seconds. Lying on this bio-bed was going to drive him out of his mind. "Nurse!"

~Darren

“Passing the time”
by LtCmdr. Hunter McKenzie
Chief Tactical Officer, USS Galaxy

“There was one good thing about humanitarian operations.” Thought Mac as he reviewed the latest Intel from the Dominion withdraw. “Tactical wasn’t involved.”

The war had cost the galaxy greatly. 4 of the Senior staff had been killed during the fighting and even T’Kal had been lost. Most by in-ship mishaps, but dead none the less. Mac had grieved for T’Kal in private, lighting one of K’Eyt’s prayer candles for the half-Bajoran officer. But the time for grieve was over and the Galaxy was now onto new problems.

Although most sections had a civilian mission, most of Tactical’s services were delegated to a “as if” role and maintained only incase of looters, such as the Pakleds or the Ferengi, or any number of other scavenging races tried to “relieve” Cardassia of her riches. Unfortunately this didn’t mean that tactical could rush off to Risa for a well-deserved vacation. Mac still had section evaluations to do...even though the main opponents, the Cardassian-Breen-Dominion triad, had been defeated, there were still the age old enemies that eventually will show there true colors. Already they were rumblings from the Klingon and the Romulans and then they were those like the Borg, that hated everyone. So with the current threat eliminated, or atleast belayed, Mac picked up the isolinier chips that held the new scenarios for his eager young officers.

“Computer. Begin recording.” Asked Mac as he sat back in the overstuffed chair that he had replaced the stiff, regulation one with.

“Working”

“To all Tactical Officers, assigned USS Galaxy.

Starting tomorrow at 0800 hrs, I will begin section evaluations. These evaluations will test not only your texts book knowledge, but also the ability to think on your feet and both your strategic and tactical knowledge. These evaluations will also be used for your yearly proficiency exams, which determine your promotion scores and future ship assignments.

The sequence will be as follows.

Lt(jg) Kamin 0800-0900
Lt(jg) Tamar 0900-1000
Lt(jg) Marc 1000-1100
Lt(jg) Richeson 1100-1200
Lt(jg) Beq 1200-1300
Lt. Hermedhie 1300-1400

Any problem with these please contact myself or Lt Groom. Good luck
HMc

“Computer. End recording. Send with CC’s to Cmdr Casey and all active TacOfficers.”

“Acknowledged.” Came the generic voice of Starfleet.

Mac grinned. “Ok. Lets see how good you guys really are.”

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

"Decline"
By Lt(jg) Yazron Beq
Tactical Officer

***Sickbay***

Yaz stood beside Lorraine, coaching her through yet another contraction.

"ARRGGHH!!" Lorraine grunted.

"Come on sweetie, breath." Yaz said and began prompting her to breath in time with him. After a few seconds the contraction passed.

['Lt(jg) Beq, you have 1 message']

Yaz had set the computer to notify him of any messages for him or Lorraine.

"Computer, display message on bedside console." Yaz ordered.

The computer beeped in response. A message from Lt. Cmdr. McKenzie appeared, requesting him to report for training at 1200 hours. Yaz hit the reply function:

###########################################################
TO: Lt. Cmdr. Hunter McKenzie

Sir,

I wish to inform you my wife is currently in labour and would like to request that my simulation be delayed. I would like to request leave for 48 hours in order to attend to my wife and child until Lorraine is fit and back to normal.

SIGNED: Lt(jg) Yazron Beq
##########################################################

He sent the message.

"Who was it hon....." Lorraine started hyperventilating.

"DOCTOR!!!!!" Yaz called.

A Vulcan male in uniform ran through the door. "She is experiencing further complications from the fever." He explained, without emotion. "I will attempt to stabilise her."

The Lieutenant picked up a hypospray and inserted a fill into the bottom. He applied it to Lorraine's neck and her breathing calmed again.

"It's OK honey, a doctor's here." Yaz explained.

The Lieutenant looked at the monitor above Lorraine, and gave a Vulcan equivalent of a frown. "If the baby is to be born, alive and well, we shall have to speed up the labour process." The Doctor told the couple.

"Will she be alright?" Yaz asked, anxious at his wife's condition.

"She will not be without pain, but she will be 'alright'." The Vulcan turned to his patient. "That is of course if you choose to accept this method."

Lorraine just nodded her head.

"Are you sure?" Yaz asked.

"The sooner this is over, the better." His wife replied in a stubborn tone.

Yaz nodded to the doctor. "Go ahead."

The Lt. applied a device to Lorraine's forehead, which Yaz did not recognise, and activated it. He then prepared a hypospray and administered it to Lorraine's wrist.

Lorraine went into another contraction immediately.

"I suggest you coach her Lt." The Doctor suggested. He left the area briefly and Yaz moved and began once again prompting his wife to breath properly. The Vulcan returned with an equipment cart and a female nurse that Yaz recognised as Lt(jg) Dawson.

"30 seconds until peak of contractions." The Vulcan sounded off.

Yaz smiled encouragingly to Lorraine between breaths, their son was on his way.

TO BE CONTINUED.....

"Tough Decisions"
By Lieutenant Commander David Mercury
Chief Engineer
Lieutenant JG Jordan Arisa
Chief Helmsman

Jordan placed the last of the dishes back in the replicator after their spartan meal. They were both tired and emotionally drained from the battle but they had each other. She pulled her robe about her more tightly as she moved back to where David was sitting at the table, staring at a padd.

She softly laid her hands on him and began to massage his shoulders. How are you feeling darling?" she asked as she kissed his neck.

"Better thanks." David said as he stroked her hand with his.

She ceased her massaging and gingerly sat across the table from him, a serious look masked her face. "David, I've been doing some thinking, now just let me say this before you respond, because it's going to sound a little crazy, especially considering the current situation." she exhaled sharply. "After seeing the destruction from the bridge today and seeing the death count on Sullax's console a thought struck me. Right now there are hundreds of war orphans down there, who've lost everything. Little babies. I was thinking that maybe we should adopt one of the babies." she saw David's shocked look, but continued. "We have so much love in this home and we're about to bring our own beautiful children into the world. When we're finished here we're going to have the most amazing wedding. I love you more than life itself and I think because we have this love it would be so wonderful if we could share that with a Cardassian who has lost everything. It's not like the Cardassians are going to be so hated because they joined the Federation in the end. I just want you to consider this okay?"

He leaned forward in his chair and searched his mind for the right thing to say. The walls of Main Engineering protected David from the devastation of the Cardassian home world. He didn't have to see what Jordan saw on the bridge. The senseless murder of so many lives, it will be a tough road for Cardassia. "Is this something you really want to do? I mean being a child into this world? Jordan, we have twins on the way."

"Don't you think I know we have twins on the way." Jordan snapped as she motioned towards her belly. David was a little startled by her tone of voice. Jordan almost surprised herself but it felt right. "I'm sorry I snapped, its just that I know there's people down there that are all alone and if just for a moment someone else can experience the love that we share. I know we can make it work."

"Jordan, I am terrified of being a father. I don't know how to raise a child, I'm relying on instinct to guide me. But adopting a Cardassian, I don't know their culture, their history. How should I know how to raise the baby?"

"I'm terrified too. I'm scared. Women don't get provided with a handbook on how to raise children. But together I think we can do this. I think we can do just about anything." Jordan got up out of the chair and walked around the table and kneeled down next to David. "Please, I need to do this."

David spun around on the chair and stroked Jordan's face with his hand. He looked into her eyes. He knew that this was something she had passion for. "So what are we going to name the baby?" A little surprised by his response Jordan did know how to answer. She just smiled and rested her head on his lap.

"You're so wonderful." She put her arms around his neck and kissed him passionately. She felt like she was entwined with his soul.

"I try my best." David whispered as he returned the kiss and caressed her.

Camilla Claudia Pretlove
Daniel Josephs

Mr. Shtik
Science officer
"Repairs continue…"

Shtik strode across the Galaxy with a sure, confident stride. The ship's damage was slowly but surely being repaired, but there were still many obstacles in his path. Both medical and repair crews had been split between shipboard priorities and planetside relief efforts. Both areas still required a lot of work.

The vulcan looked up to see the planet of Cardassia filling the sky above him. The reports of damage down there had been staggering. Shtik himself had helped locate pockets of survival on the planet using the shipboard sensors during his last duty shift. The energy patterns he had received from those scans could easily be used to visualize the scenes being described by the landing parties.

As his magnetic boots clanked across the outer deck plating, Shtik continued toward the main sensor array. The scene outside the ship was just as grizzly as the inside. Debris from the battle filled the orbit of the planet. Several times during the trek across the outside hull, Shtik was startled by the flare of navigational shields as some piece of flotsam threatened to smash into the ship. Chunks of ships, equipment and humanoid bodies were everywhere.

Fortunately, Shtik's vulcan attitude prevented him from approaching the scene with an emotional distraction that would have interfered with his current mission. Commander Mackenzie was concentrating on keeping the ship save from the same kind of pockets of resistance that the landing parties were experiencing. He had requested for the science department to focus some of their attention on sensor repair and enhancement in order to keep a vigilant watch. It had fallen on Lt. Shtik to clean off the outer sensor screen from the carbon scoring that had accumulated from the fight.

Yet there was still a fascination to the scene around the ship. As he continued on his journey, Shtik watched the ballet of lifeless objects the ship was plowing through. That was when his attention was attracted to a figure in a romulan space suit. Unlike most of the remnants he had seen, this body appeared to be intact. In fact, there appeared to be movement within the suit.

The vulcan knew he wasn't prone to fanciful hallucinations, so he quickly began analyzing the body's trajectory. It was heading straight for the Galaxies deflector shields. Even if it survived the energy discharge, it would be thrown into the planets atmosphere and burn up in a matter of moments. Shtik had seconds to react.

Slapping the controls on his forearm, Shtik deactivated the magnetic boots connecting him to his ship. Pushing off as hard as he could, he leapt into open space to intercept the romulan. The impact was enough to change both of their trajectories and launch them into a direct path toward the planet's surface. Shtik looked into the faceplate of the helmet before him and saw a flicker in the eyelids of the vulcanoid in his arms. He was alive. He could feel the pull of the gravity well as they flew further and further away from the ship.

"Lt. Shtik to Galaxy. Request emergency transport directly to sickbay." The words were barely out of his mouth before the heat of atmospheric reentry was replaced by the tingle of a transporter beam.

"A Boy is Born"
By Lt(jg) Yazron Beq
Tactical Officer

Lt. Jonathan Lucas Brandis
Assistant Chief Operations Officer

Ensign Lorraine Beq
NPC - Linguistics Specialist

***Sickbay***

The Vulcan doctor, Lemur as he had told Yaz, was now preparing for the birth.

"Contractions have reached their peak." Karina announced from beside Yaz. "Time to begin, doctor."

The Doctor nodded. "Lorraine, you must now begin pushing."

Although concerned Yaz rolled his eyes at the typical Vulcan-like statement, cold and to the point. He turned back to Lorraine. "Come on now honey, our son is nearly here."

Lorraine grunted in pain and began to push, the expression on her face portrayed exactly how she felt, in excruciating agony, feverish, and on the verge of physical breakdown.

"That's it, Lorraine." the nurse comforted her. "He's on his way now, we have a head."

Yaz smiled encouragingly, which was hard for him, after all Lorraine was obviously in pain, much more and she would just collapse. "Here," Yaz offered his hand. "Squeeze this for the pain."

Lorraine grabbed the hand and Yaz's knuckles cracked when she began to squeeze, but Yaz beared it, and kept from pulling his hand away or crying out in pain. He did it for his wife, and his child. Lorraine once again began to push and her grip on his hand tightened.

"Once more should be adequate Ms. Ronalds." Lemur reported.

With that statement Lorraine gave a final push, and immediately crying was audible, Lorraine fell back onto the biobed, and her eyes closed.

"Lorraine!!" Yaz exclaimed.

Lorraine opened her eyes and smiled. "I'm alright, the least you could do is let me get a bit of a rest, you have no idea how painful that was, next time it's your turn!" Her smile was weak, and her voice weaker, yet she still managed to show strength.

Yaz chuckled, "I don't think that's quite how it works."

The nurse was right next to Yaz now and he turned to see her offering him a blanket. A tear formed in his eye, his son was finally here. He took him in his arms, and at that moment swore that he would let no harm come to him. The tear left his eye and trickled down his cheek. In the blanket a hand reached up to him, a red, tiny, smooth hand. Yaz gently took it in his, and the new-born cooed. Yaz looked down at Lorraine, she was smiling, but had not yet sat up, obviously she was still exhausted. Yaz sat on the biobed, this was his family, the one he had wanted for so long, and this innocent child had been born on the outbreak of peace, he was a sign of the peace that they all searched for.

"I think he likes you." The nurse said. "You have a visitor waiting," she continued when the couple looked up. "Shall I let him in?"

"Please do." Lorraine said, then continued in the voice of knowledge, which only a telepath could. "I know who it is."

The Nurse smiled as she reached the door. "You can come in now."

Lucas wandered into Sick Bay, sensing a new life that he'd been fermiliar with for the past few months. "Hello, little one." Lucas said at the new born that Yazron held in his arms, a grand prize to the galaxy.

He held a traditional Blue Sphere of Rebirth up to the baby and prayed a silent pray of hope, health, and a long joyful life. "This is for you little Keiran." Lucas handed the sphere to the child, who seemed oblivious of everything else around him. As he reached weakly, at grabbed the sphere, it changed to a confused shade of white.

Yaz looked at the object with curiosity, he had never seen anything like it before. "What is it?" He asked genly, afraid of scaring his child, or even Lorraine who was in a state of exhaustion.

"Oh, it's a traditional Rebirth Sphere. It symbolizes hope and the act of coming out of the womb being a birth into the outside world. A new world." Lucas said to Yaz.

Yaz smiled as he looked down at Keiran, content with his new "toy". "He likes it," Yaz said and looked up to Lucas. "It was very kind of you."

"Humans have a tradition and here it is." Lucas pulled out a Cuban Cigar. "I think you're supposed to light it some how, but I don't see a power button. Lt. jg. Kalln told me to give it to you."

"Hmm..." Yaz looked at the object before carefully taking it in his hand under his son and placing it on the table. "I'll leave that till later to figure out." He said to no-one in perticular.

~And you need to get some much deserved rest, you hear, Ensign?~ Lucas spoke telepathically to Lorraine. "Well," he continued out loud, "I'll let you all have your time alone together, Congradulations, Yaz and Lorraine. You are blessed." Lucas then took his leave, he had been there for Keiran's birth and would be there whenever the child needed him. He was after all, his Godfather.

Before Lucas left Yaz called him back. He knew how much the Lieutenant wanted his own son, yet would not tell anyone. It was their 'little secret'. "You're going to leave without holding your Godchild?"

Lucas was really excited, he contained himself, and noticed that Lorraine was smiling, knowingly. He walked back, "I wasn't.." He started to say, and then opened his arms to take young Keiran.

Yaz handed Keiran to his Godfather, happy at the content faces they both had. Keiran gurgled as he looked up at Lucas.

"I bet I know what you're thinking." Lucas began to talk to the baby boy. "'Why is this place so big?' Well, it only gets bigger, Keiran. But, there's one thing I can promise you. You'll never be alone, no matter how big it gets. And you've got some really special parents, even if they are a bit weird."

Lucas smiled at the parents and began to gently rock the baby in his arms, from side to side. "I actually have a song for you. It's an old terran song. You'll love it. I can tell. I'll sing it to you sometime."

Yaz smiled. "Weird?" When Lucas looked up he continued. "I wouldn't mind a song." He turned to Lorraine. "How about you hon?"

"I could do with a bit of cheering up." Lorraine replied.

"No, I couldn't really." Lucas was too modest.

"Come on, Lucas." Yaz prompted. "I've never heard you sign, and besides Keiran would like it." He motioned to the young boy that Lucas held in his arms.

Lucas looked at Keiran, he seemed to exude curiosity, he definately wanted more. "Well," He hesitated and thought of all he'd gained this week. From the return of Betazed to his Lady love, Alexa Casey. It was definately a time for rejoicing, and what better way than music. "Okay, erm, I'd like some back up so you all need to chime in after the chorus, it repeats. Computer, recall terran music file #1999 by Elton John titled Blessed."

The music began and the whole of SickBay seemed to be paying attention, but Lucas didn't notice, he just began to sing, softly and soothingly to the baby he held.

"Blessed"
Music by Elton John
Lyrics by Bernie Taupin

Hey you, you're a child in my head
You haven't walked yet
Your first words have yet to be said
But I swear you'll be blessed

I know you're still just a dream
your eyes might be green
Or the bluest that I've ever seen
Anyway you'll be blessed

And you, you'll be blessed
You'll have the best
I promise you that
I'll pick a star from the sky
Pull your name from a hat
I promise you that, promise you that, promise you that
You'll be blessed

I need you before I'm too old
To have and to hold
To walk with you and watch you grow
And know that you're blessed

He ended the song and all of Sick Bay seemed inamored at the sound and sight, it was truly a joybful moment. Lucas handed the seemingly content Keiran to Lorraine and they reveled in the joy and happiness of the moment. This child would grow up loved and blessed.

"Retaliation"
Ensign Darian McGee
Medical Doctor

With excerpts from "Dissidents" by Captain Price

***PLANETSIDE - CARDASSIA PRIME - ICARIAN CITY***

Darian had transported down to the ravaged planet of Cardassia Prime sometime ago, and already he saw the terrible aftermath of the Dominion War. Nothing at the Academy could prepare one for the magnitude of this. Darian was taken aback in shock, and wondered how someone could do this to another race, to destroy their identity, to take away all that they had, land, power, and their pride.

The Medical Doctor was currently assigned to Icarian City in helping with the relief efforts. It wasn't an easy task, and Darian found himself almost wishing he had never joined Starfleet. But then he remembered who he was, and that he had a mission, and that mission was to help these people in any way that he could. And if that meant getting his hands a little dirty, then so be it.

The sun was just about to set below the horizon. The team of officers had managed to get a makeshift camp up, providing shelter for some of the homeless Cardassians. Other tents had been constructed to house the away team during their stay in the city throughout the relief efforts.

Darian was in a cramped tent with four other officers. Lieutenant Angela Dana and Lieutenant Charles Knight were assigned to his tent, while Lieutenant Dierdren Mhistecai and Civilian Geoffry Harper from Medical were also assigned to the tent.

Darian came in to find Geoffry Harper already in the tent, snoozing on his makeshift bed. He sat up when Darian sat down on his bed.

"Done for the day, Ensign?" he asked.

"I am beat, Geoffry. I don't know how were ever going to help these people get back on their feet."

Geoffry shrugged. "I don't think about that. I just think about those people, and how they must feel. And I know, that even if I might not get the whole planet going again at a normal flow, I will help some... that's the key."

"I never thought of it that way..."

***OUTSIDE***

Both officers laughed and then stopped when they realized there was a Cardassian man laying upside down on his back upon the ground with his hands near a stack of cylindrical objects with wires coming out and into his hands.

A brief moment of disbelief went by as they each stared at each other dumbly, before the Cardassian screamed, "FOR CARDASSIA!!!!" and touched two of the wires together.

The resulting explosion was quite large, rupturing the one wall of the supply building and causing a partial collapse as the supplies inside burst into flames. Shrapnel and building fragments along with the concussion wave of the ten cylinder pipe bomb threw the two Starfleet officers back nearly fifteen meters where they landed, unmoving on the ground. Immediately the entire relief camp stirred to life, as people scrambled to find out what had just happened.

"What the hell was that!" Darian exclaimed, jumping to his feet.

"I don't know," was the only reply Geoffry got out. He seemed to be in a small state of shock.

Darian ran outside to see what was going on. A fire could be seen burning on the other end of the complex. Darian broke into a run, followed closely by Harper. They reached the wounded Security officers. Darian kneeled down to the two fallen officers. He checked the males pulse. Negative. He shook his head. A small crowd of Cardassians had gathered around.

"The CLA has struck again. They will not stop. Let this be a fair warning," one of the Cardassians spoke up. "These two are the first. If you do not leave, they will not be the last. The CLA and Cardassia doesn't want your help."

The words stung Darian all the way down. As he looked at the two officers, he was bent up with pain. Someone handed Darian a medical kit, and he ran a quick scan on Lieutenant Sanchez. The female security officer was still alive, but barely.

Darian tapped his commbadge. "Ensign McGee to Galaxy,"

"Jenson here," came the reply of the transporter chief.

"Medical emergency, two to beam directly to sickbay." Darian stated, trying to remain as calm as possible.

"Give me a second," Jenson replied, "some of the transporters are still damaged, it's making direct beaming harder." he explained.

"Just get on it, Chief!" Darian called.

"Got it. Stand by." Jenson's voice echoed, and then faded as the transporter griped Darian and Lieutenant Sanchez.

The familiar blue shimmering field of the transporter engulfed both officers, and they re-materialized in Sickbay. Lieutenant Lemur was there to greet them.

"She was caught in a blast," Darian explained.

"Get her on the biobed, Doctor." Lemur replied in a flat Vulcan tone.

Darian set Lieutenant Sanchez down on the nearest biobed, while Lemur grabbed his instruments.

A Nurse handed the doctor a hypo, and he injected it into Sanchez. Her vital signs clamed down a bit, but she was far from cured. Darian looked at the readings. She had first and second degree burns all over her body, she had a broken leg, three cracked ribs, and a broken jaw. Her uniform was charred and had peeled away

Lieutenant Lemur continued to work on her. There was nothing more Darian could do. He slowly backed away, just hoping that the Lieutenant would be alright. Even though he didn't know her, he just prayed that she would pull through.

"Six months and counting"
Lt. Jg Elaine O'Hare
Ensign Maria Rill-NPC

The Lt. outwardly grumbled very loudly when she heard the chime to her door ring out. "Come." Elaine stated in a nasty low growl.

Ensign Rill had been assigned to 'escort' if you will, a Lt. jg Elaine O'Hare around this morning as she did her security duties. They were light, charging weapons, looking over reports, all the stuff that macho security officers hated doing. Leaning up against the door frame, sipping a cup of coffee, Rill had recalled the ribbing and wishes of luck she had received from donning this 'assignment' of tagging along with O'Hare. Rill also groaned as she was told what O'Hare was like. "A photon torpedo screaming out of a launch tube.", "A pissed off Klingon", "A ship set to auto distract", "Anna Gartner on White", and the mother of all compliments, "A Vulcan in Pon-Far" Were just a few of the descriptions that Maria had been informed of. Hearing the loud snarl type animal sound of "Come" that resented from O'Hare's quarters, she half expected to be pounced on by a pregnant Bat'leth carrying, ready to decapitate the first thing in her line of vision, fiery red headed security officer. Steeling herself and scrunching her face up in a dignified smile, Rill walked into the Lt. quarters.

The Ensign had to smile as she saw the Lt. "Hello Lt. O'Hare" From all the things she had heard, no one told her how soft and feminine the Lt. looked. Especially since she was pregnant.

Elaine turned and smiled falsely. "Hi." Sipping her herbal tea, she grimaced and looked down at her growing bump. "I hope you appreciate what I have to do for you Baby!"

"Oh, I'm sure he or she will! Mine did!"

O'Hare turned and looked at Ensign Rill. "You have a child?"

The Ensign smiled. "Yes! A little boy who's just over a year."

The Lt. walked up to the Ensign and with a 'shall we' look, gestured to leave her quarters and head down to the security office.

"What's it like? Giving birth?" Elaine asked with curiosity.

"Well, it's sort of like.....painful! I did mine naturally!"

O'Hare's eyes grew big and she shook her head slightly. "Naturally? Are you nuts?"

Rill smiled. "No. It was actually quite fulfilling. All the real work, with all the pain and suffering, only to be handed the ultimate reward when your done. Your son or daughter. Do you know yet, what she/he is?"

Elaine looked down at her abdomen and softly smiled. "Not yet. Bolitho and I want to be surprised."

"Ah, Neil. Nice guy."

Elaine sighed. "Oh yeah." O'Hare's lips twisted into what some would call a goofy grin.

"How's he taking this?"

"Oh, wonderfully. He's been acting more like a mother hen and it's rather irritating to tell you the truth."

Rill laughed and playfully smacked O'Hare on the shoulder. "And your how far along? Just wait until you start showing more. Mother hen is an understatement. My husband, Ryan, good grief. 'Don't do that dear, you'll hurt the baby.' 'Sit down dear, don't stress yourself.' 'Do you need anything dear?' It got to the point that I wanted to phase him, just to get some peace and quite."

O'Hare groaned at the thought of Neil being so nice to her. "How un-bearable. What did you do?"

"Well, I programmed the holodeck for this really cool pregnancy workout that I got okayed from a doctor in sickbay, and when ever he got on my nerves, I went there. Kept me in great shape throughout the pregnancy, plus the added benefit of not sitting in the brig for decking my husband. You can use it anytime you wish." Rill looked down over at O'Hare's abdomen and cocked her head to the side. "Ya know, you are starting to show just a tad there Elaine."

O'Hare gasped. "No I'm not!" Her hand went protectively over her belly and rubbed it. "It's too soon! I'm only in the middle of my third month!"

"Please, give it up! The best thing about being pregnant is to be able to show it off. And, believe me, those uniforms do show it."

Smirking, Elaine took her hand from her lower torso. "I know. I just didn't want to admit it yet. Rill, do you know what it feels like when your not even really big yet and everyone and their partner wants to rub your belly and kiss your cheek? I feel like the Irish Blarney Stone, don't cha know!" O'Hare stated in her authentic Irish accent.

The Ensign chuckled. ~This isn't too bad.~ Rill thought to herself.

Leaning in closely to O'Hare she stated quietly. "Another thing. Men also like to........" Rill finished the statement by stopping O'Hare in the corridor and whispering in her ear.

Elaine's eyes shot open. "They WHAT?"

Rill leaned back and giggled. "Uh huh!"

"Let's just see Neil try to attempt that." Elaine smiled, returning the giggle.

The Ensign rolled her eyes upward, then back to Elaine. "All guys do dear, believe me."

Half groaning, half giggling, Elaine grew serious for a moment. "What's it like? To hold your baby in your arms for the first time?"

Rill's features soften and she gently smiled. "It's different for everyone, but for me, it was heaven on Earth. Well....heaven on a starship. It's undesirable. The maricle of live that you've carried for nine months. It makes being so tired all the time worth it. All those days where you feel like you've been run over by a Klingon, it doesn't matter."

O'Hare grinned wildly.

"What?" Rill coming to the realization of what she said giggled. "Well, maybe not for you....."

It was Elaine's turn to smack her upside her shoulder. Rill smiled and continued.

"It's like....well....for the first time in my life, I knew I had done something perfectly. A baby........is the signal of everything new."

She continued. "Look at all this destruction on the Galaxy. She's been through numerous battles. Like us almost. I'm sure that you've had some nasty fights in your day. In fact, I've heard about most of them. Anyway....to be able to produce and protect someone so little. If the Galaxy was a living thing, I'm sure she'd feel the same way about us....her crew. The protecting part, that is."

Elaine thought of all the new experiences her and Neil would share with this baby of theirs. Smiling, she was glad that Casey had told her to have a tag along. Rill was easing a lot of her fears about the up coming months, and O'Hare knew that she had made a friend that could be a very close confidant.

"Well Lt. We are here. Ready to put some phasers into submission?" Rill asked O'Hare

"Yep, let's shown those phasers. Run low on our shift. How dare they!" Elaine stated with a grin.

***************end***************

Lt. Jg. Elaine O'Hare Security officer- U.S.S. Galaxy

"Breaking with Tradition"
by Lt. Commander Thomas
w/ approval of Captain Price

** Captain's Ready Room **

Captain Price and Lt. Commander Thomas entered the captain's ready room, where Commander Casey was waiting for them. They'd just returned to the ship from Cardassian Prime, the captain had wanted to visit the place and see first the destruction that had befallen the Cardassian people. Chris couldn't blame for wanting to see it and realize just what happened here. No one would every forget this war, even through many would wish to for any number of reasons.

Commander Casey had made himself at home in the captain's ready room, while he was reading through all the transfer orders that were being received. "Captain, here's the orders that we received about the transfer of Lt. Commander Thomas to the USS Aurora. Under the command of one Captain Joseph Rema." Commander Casey said rising from the captain's chair and moving to one next to where Lt. Commander Thomas had just sat down.

Captain Price looked over the orders and then presented them to Lt. Commander Thomas, "Any ideas where these came from mate?"

Chris looked over the orders carefully for any signs of where they came from, as he kinda suspected there was none. He figured that Commander Casey's back tracing wouldn't provide much information, but then again Commander Casey was a very resourceful man and had contacts that could prove him wrong. "I believe I recognize the captain's name, but there's a problem."

"Oh?" Captain Price asked.

Chris thought about it for a moment, "Captain I may now know why these orders for my transferred were issued, but in order to tell you why I'd have to violate a number of security protocols. Perhaps it's time I filled you and Commander Casey in on my past."

"Yes now might be a good time 'Commander Thomas." Captain Price responded in a controlled voice. Casey just listened to what was being said and keep his comments to himself for the moment.

"Captain, Commander I must ask that for security reasons you not repeat what I am about to tell you. I also need to ensure that no one enters you ready room, Captain." Lt. Commander Chris Thomas said. He now wore a very serious expression on his face, he was after all about ready to do something he swore to himself he'd never do in his life. Involve more people in this matter, he new that doing so was only inviting trouble and placing more people's lives at stake for his own.

"Granted, Computer establish security looks on my ready room, authorization" Price entered his codes to lock the room.

"Security lock enabled." the computer responded only moments later.

"Captain I was thinking perhaps I shouldn't involve you, or Derian on the Galaxy in this matter. It's a personal matter and anyone who seems to get involved in it, ends up disappearing or dead."

"Then whatever your involved in, must be dangerous? Or is it something from your past actions that has caught up with you after all these years 'Commander?" Commander Casey asked.

Chris was very hard pressed now he wanted to spill everything that he knew and what he'd been doing about finding out what happened to his wife. However telling them what he knew and speculated could result in their own demise or at least cause a inconvience for them. Then there was issue of breach of security, yes the information he was in possession of could also be considered a breach of security, but he also knew the risk of having the information. "Captain I believe that these orders for my transfer have to do with the death of my late wife Gwyen and my ongoing investigation into what happened to her and the station."

Price wasn't surprised by the news as he knew the 'Commander had been continuing his look into the matter, ever since he came onboard his ship. "Go on 'Commander."

Chris took a deep breath and relaxed as he prepared to involve two more people in quest for the truth of what happened to his wife at Starbase 81. Why the explosion happened and what they were working on their that caused such an explosion to make part of the station complexly disappear without a trace. Captain you are correct this visit and orders to transfer to Captain Rema command has to do with my investigation into my wives's mysterious death and why Starfleet tried to wrap a nice cozy blanket around the truth."

"I will try and explain to you everything that I know and have learned over the past three years, in essence let brief you on the details, because now you're right in the middle of this thing." Lt. Commander Thomas said, giving a quick glance at Derian Casey.

"Captain Joesph Rema is his name and he's very much Starfleet Intelligence, and so is that ship of his. The registery is falsified if you dig deep enough you'll probably the real registered of the ship in some scrap yard. In either case, he's a man of action he lets his ship and her weapons do his speaking. I would be very careful in dealing with this man." Chris said, pausing. "Now you're both probably wondering how and why I know this man or at least know a few things about him. Simple in my work to find the reason my Gwyen died, I have accidental began to unravel the veil of secrecy surrounding a new experimental project.

"Based upon my research I have determined or at least it is my speculation that the explosion was the result of illegal weapons research. The group was working on weapons that were banned, because of their unknown side effects. Namely Temperoal weaponry. The concept and hope was to find a better way to control such weapons and or derive new ways of developing weapons based on the research. Though speculation still remains as to whether it was Temperoal weapons that were responsible or another project."

Chris noted both of his commanding officers were a little bewildered by his statement, "I know this hard to believe gentlemen, but based upon my investigation and research into what happened at the Starbase and the lack of evidence that is around this is a logical conclusion. I have the information and research that will support my claims and I also have the names of some of the officers involved." Chris said, trying to regain his focus on the issue. "Perhaps it would be best to start at the beginning of when things started happening."

"Yes that would be certainly more helpful, 'mate." Captain Price said as he relaxed in his chair.

"When I was working for Starfleet Intelligence, I had earned their respect and admiration for being able to get the job done at any cost. When Gwyen and I graduated from the academy, we got married and had made a promise to each other, that whoever got the first assignment the other would follow. My wife Gwyen ended up at Starbase 81 and before I could get an assignment I was asked to take another undercover assignment going to the Klingon homeworld."

"When I returned to the Federation I learned about what happened, but it was already several months old. I couldn't get access to the starbase, no one can. I worked hard to get the information that I got about what happened and when I visited her grave I made a solemn last promise to her, to find out the truth of what happened and make sure those responsible paid the price."

"I have been perusing this matter all the way to this day and I have learned a lot, friends die when you ask too much of them. I've also learned that I will never see my wife again, at least not in the physical sense and that no matter how much you learn it's not always enough." Chris said.

"It is my belief, based upon my investigation and research that those working on the project probably didn't know what they were exactly working on at the time. I believe the group of scientist were also working on quantum and polarized weapons. They were also working on a new delivery method based upon phased and teleporting torpedoes. Theoretical research was also going on at the time as well. The station was a massive research facility to say the least." Chris said with a strong positive projection. He was serious and had the proof to back up most of claims.

"Captain I know what I maybe saying is hard to believe, so let me show you some of my evidence," Chris said moving to turn the console to face him. "I can bring some of the information up here."

"Of course, mate." Captain Price said, turning the monitor to face Lt. Commander Thomas.

"Thank you, Captain." Chris said, as started to key in command passwords and codes, it took four minutes to go through his security checks, of course since he knew them well that showed just how much security was in place, a lot. "Sorry you can never be to careful."

"Of course, 'Commander." Price said.

Chris allowed them to read the information, which pretty much parrelled what he'd just told them. In fact the information provided them with a more clearer picture of what Chris was telling them. There was corruption in Starfleet it was on all levels, the worst part was that these people were conducting illegal experimentation with weapons, technology and bio genetics among other things.

"Gentleman, I believe that these orders are designed to remove me from the picture without causing too much of a fuss. In other terms Captain, Commander I believe they plan to eliminate me as I am threat to their existence and that's unacceptable in their field of work." Chris said.

"Then what do you propose?"

"Captain I have amassed a lot of leave time and I would like to some of that leave time now. I think I need to get away and perhaps go on a fishing expedition or something. I have been overworked and overstressed, I am sure the doctor would agree. I think a couple of weeks would do me some good and would give you and commander Casey the time to check out my transfer orders." Chris grinned, "You can also check into these matters further, if you have any more luck than I did at first." Chris said turning the console around to face the captain directly.

"I see. I believe shoreleave can be arranged for your fishing trip and we should have everything cleared by the time you get back 'Commander." Captain Price said.

"Thank you captain, now if you have any further questions I would be happy to answer them at this point in time. However I should be leaving soon." Lt. Commander Thomas noted.

Christopher Patton
ICQ # 11497863

"An Engineer and A Helmsman"
by Ensign Kian Marutte
with additions by Ensign Shane Montgomery Wolcott
and unauthorized use of Lt. jg Numa Taurean

The lesson in botany was one that Kian wouldn't soon forget. The Caitian just didn't have the aptitude for such things. His expertise was in engineering. Give him a plant and it was sure to die. Give him some electronics, a schematic, some tools, and an idea and the tiger striped cat could build anything.

It was this attribute of his that got him elected to help the Benzite scientist. It seemed that she was an expert in the life sciences with a specialty in botany and horticulture. However, in order to help feed the numberless refugees, she needed the construction of "green houses" as Kian called them. That's all they really were, elaborate glass rooms used to grow vast quantities of rabbit food. The only thing was in order to produce the amount of food needed, electronic equipment as well as mechanical devices needed to be integrated into the basic glass houses of old.

At the present time, Kian was busy installing a bio-regenerator especially designed for Numa's botanical experiments. He didn't really understand the operations of the small device, but he was aware that both Numa and Endris Gakor-Albrecht used a medical bio-regenerator as a model to create and develop the small unit he now held in his hand.

During the shuttle ride over, Kian had learned that Numa had a great grasp and understanding of engineering. This astonished him. Then he learned that her entire family had entered Star Fleet as engineers. It seemed that the slender and lithe fish faced Benzite was the only one of her family to enter science. Of course Kian didn't follow up on the matter because he didn't want another lecture like his botany lesson. He was quite surprised that Numa didn't issue a pop quiz after her in depth dialogue of plants.

"Hey there dude."

Kian looked up from the quietly humming bio-regenerator unit to see the brash blond pilot walking towards him. He really didn't want to talk to him. When Kian was working, he liked very much to be left alone. Besides, he just didn't quite understand this officer. Here was a man that didn't seem to care one iota about protocol or ettiquette. For all the mans years, Kian saw him as a childish and selfish individual. He wondered how he ever made it through the academy.

"Mrrrreow, Ensign Wolcott. Good day." Kian looked back down to his work hoping that the helmsman would get the idea and leave him be. No such luck.

"Tiger dude," the fur on the back of Kian's neck raised, "I'm getting ready to depart to the big Mama Ship. I was wonderin', dude, if'n you needed anything before I left."

Kian flexed his thick muscles slightly and looked at Shane without raising his head. His amber colored eyes glowed like hot embers, and a low growl like purr rumbled deep within the Caitian's chest. "I'd aprrreciate not being called Tigerrrrr Dude. My name is Marrrrutte, or Kian."

"Chill dude." Shane's hands went up as if to shield himself from the impressively muscled tiger furred cat. Even though Kian wasn't very tall, his looks were intimidating. "I get your drift, dude." Shane cocked his head to the side and cracked a quirky smile. "Dude."

Kian just looked back down at his work and shook his head. Perhaps this human wasn't so bad after all. He just seemed to have a happy go lucky kind of spirit that the Caitian wasn't accustomed to. Kian enjoyed a good time, but when it came to work he was all professionalism. Shane wasn't. He was a surfer wearing a Star Fleet uniform.

Kian looked up glimpsing a movement out of the corner of his eyes. It was T'Zaq, a fellow engineer. Apparently she had been an observer to his altercation with Shane.

His attention returned to Shane. "No, I need nothing. Good Day."

Shane left him to his work without saying anything else, or if he did say something, Kian paid him no attention.

"Fantastic." It was Numa. She had walked up seconds after Shane's departure.

"Ma'am. She's up and running."

"And in no time flat. You're the best, Ensign Marutte." Kian was pleased to see that Numa approved of his timely work.

"Bolitho squared" By Lt(jg)'s O'Hare and Bolitho
Security officers

Bolitho trudged tiredly down the passage towards his quarters...correction his and Elaine's quarters. Neil smiled at that thought. The idea of them being together, a few months ago, he would have laughed in anyone's face, if they had told him that he and Elaine would be living together.

But together they were, and in love ? Well he was! And he suspected(hoped and prayed )that Elaine was as well. Bolitho shook his head at the speed at which everything had happened.

Thinking of Elaine, Neil realised he wasn't that tired any more! A rye smile grew on his face as he entered his quarters only to find the women of his dreams not there!

" Computer location of Lt O'Hare?" Barked out Neil.

["Lt. O'Hare is on deck 38 security office"] the Computer replied.

Neil subtly made some quick arrangements for food and other 'Items' and sped out of the quarters, on his way to the security office.

***Deck 38 security office***

Laughing once more with Ensign Rill, Elaine failed to notice the Terran tornadoish speed that Bolitho was approaching her with. She kept talking animatidly to Maria, concerning life, and most of all men. It was nice to have a woman to talk to again, and as Maria was finding out, O'Hare was pretty cool to hang around with. Her humourous sarcasim was invigerating and found herself drawn to Elaine as a close friend.

Breaking out into another fit of giggles, O'Hare almost choked at the statement Rill had made. "No way Rill!"

"Way O'Hare. I'm deadly serious!"

Neil arrived just in time to hear the last two sentences from the two giggling security officers. "Way what?" Interrrupted Bolitho smiling.

Elaine's smile brightened as she saw Neil. Rolling her eyes upwards, she glanced over at Rill and giggled. Focusing her gaze on Neil, a child like innocent look crossed over O'Hare's features. "Oh, nothing dear."

Bolitho narrowed his eyes first looking at Elaine and then at Marie Rill, before shrugging and then with a quick apologetic look at Marie stepped in between the two gossiping women and evneloped Elaine in an embrace, followed by a long passionate kiss on her lips.

Elaine broke out of the kiss long enough to playfully smirk at him. "Neil!" O'Hare stated with an embarrased expression. Still in his embrace she turned and mouthed "Sorry...."

Chuckling, Rill stated a curt "See ya" to O'Hare and proceeded to her cubicle.

Turning her gaze back to Bolitho, Elaine stated. "What's gotten into you?"

"Absolutely nothing!" Replied Neil with a silly grin on his face beaming down at Elaine.

"Uh huh. Right. So, what do you want to do?"

Neil slipped his arms down and around Elaine's waist and said simply " Be with you!"

"Sounds like a plan Bolitho. Let's just try and make it back to our quarters first, okay?" Elaine looked up into Neil's eyes and smiled. "I'd hate to offend Anna or Kalln."

Neil grinned." Offend them....please.." Neil removed a hand from Elaine's slim waist to cover his mouth as a large yawn erupted from him, followed by some rubbing of the eyes. "Elaine i'm whacked I think,Commander Albrecht only knew one security officer's name today....mine! how about just talking, over dinner?" Questioned Neil

"Sounds great. I am famished for some reason!" Elaine broke thier embrace and grabbed Neil by his hand. Walking side by side, the couple proceeded back to their quarters.

Bolitho smiled and allowed himself to be dragged out of the security office. Pausing breifly as he entered the turbolift, remembering the friends he and Anna had found there. Before pushing the thought away and giving the turbolift computer the destination.

Neil turned to Elaine and jokingly said " I have no idea how you can eat so much and still look so incredible?"

O'Hare just rolled her eyes. "Won't be long now Neil." Elaine looked down at her abdomen. "In fact...." Still holding Neil's hand, she led it to her stomach. "I'm growing as we speak!"

Neil's eyes smiled at Elaine, as his hand rolled gently over the small bump that had appeared on her stomach." Any cravings yet?" Asked Neil absolutely fascinated with caressing the bump on Elaine's stomach.

"Only one that I can think of." Stating the Lt.

Neil let out a short laugh" Your terrible you know that O'Hare?"

Elaine stepped back. "Get your mind out of the waste disposal ship Bolitho! I was talking about getting some fruit! I've had a great craving for it all day long!"

"Yeah ...right.. " Laughed Neil pulling Elaine back to him for a hug as the turbolift doors opened momentarily startling Neil.

Bolitho stepped into his quarters and turned to stare back at Elaine suddenly Bolitho found it a little hard to breath looking at Elaine, she looked beautiful, the way the light bounced of her red hair and green eyes shimmered.Smiling a little sheepishly, Neil managed another strangled "Elaine!" before beckoning her to come in. Neil was still partly mesmerised before remembering......Reaching back over the couch he pulled out a dozen red roses he had replicated for Elaine. Smiling he held them up to her!

Elaine's face contorted into a wonderful smile as she tried to take the roses from Neil. She was speechless as she looked at him with love in her eyes. "They are lovely Neil."

Elaine reached out for the flowers, but Neil pulled them back from her grasp and threw them back on the couch. Neil smiled as he took a step closer to Elaine "They don't even compare!" Smiled Neil looking into her eyes. "Neil!" Elaine stated playfully. Wrapping her arms around his waist, she glanced up at him. "So, what's the plan for tonight?"

"Dinner....seafood!" Enquired Neil slipping his hands around Elaine's slim waist and pointing with his head towards the dinner table."Conversation, relaxation, time spent together?" Continued Neil leaning forward and kissing Elaine gently on her lips before leading her to the dinner table!

Serving the kiss right back to Neil, she leaned back at looked at him. Elaine had no idea if Neil knew how much she loved him. It was stronger than anything she had ever felt before and it drove her to the point of obsession at times. Smiling sofly, she took his hand as he led her over to the table. Bolitho pulled out the chair for Elaine and bade her to sit down, "Something to drink?"

"Just water, thanks." Elaine couldn't help but look downwards at her abdomen and sighed. Neil followed Elaine's gaze down and kneeled next to Elaine, placing his hand lightly on her stomach, he wondered if he could feel anything? "How are she/he doing?" Asked Neil looking up at Elaine. O'hare looked down at Neil and gently smiled. Placing her hand on top of his, Elaine caressed it as she quietly spoke.

"I guess okay. It's been going rather easily for me to tell you the truth. Neil, I'm just a tad bit frightened about this whole situation. How do you feel about being a daddy, truthfully?"

"Elaine, honestly I'm terrified, the thought of me becoming a father, I........my mind boggles!" I have so many questions that I'm spending all my spare time reading on how to raise babies."

Elaine had to smile when she heard that. Usually, she had known him to be reading about the latest weapon or phaser modification.

Excitedly Neil continued. "Do you know you have to burp babies for the first 8 months, they can't do it themselves?" Asked Neil in wonderment. As excited as he was, Neil became a little solemn."But I also have some doubts, some reservations about raising a child, what with the war over, hopefully we can get things back to normal around here. There's always an element of risk But then I think of you...... Lainey and everything just seems right I can't explain it, I just know your going to be a great mom! Neil squeezed Elaine's hand and sat down opposite her and began to eat.

Elaine nodded, starting to pick at her food that was sat before her. She needed desperately to talk to him concerning an issue that had been left hanging in the atmosphere the time before last in a cabin that was placed in the mountains. But, she noticed that Neil was enjoying himself and she didn't want to possibly damper the air considering that he had gone to all this hard work. Being as it may, she asked him another question.

"Have you talked to your parents yet? Concerning us and our situation? I'd be willing to help you tell them if you want?"

Neil's hand clutched at his chest! "Thank you! I just have no idea how to approach them and tell them they are going to become grandparents!"Maybe I need you to coach me on the direct approach?" laughed Neil. He could see something was bothering Elaine, and she pushed the food around on her plate smiling back at Neil's comment.

Putting his fork down, Neil stared across at Elaine saying nothing, he waited until she looked up and caught his gaze." What!" Exclaimed Elaine.

"Whats wrong?" Probed Neil

"Nothing!' Came back the reply a little short.

Elaine pushed her food back from the table and stood up. Her mind was racing with all the many jumbled emotions that had enveloped her since she met Neil. She recalled how utterly upset she had gotten at him at times. Looking over at him now, Elaine wondered what in the world was wrong with her. She really loved him.

Neil stood up and intercepted the pacing Elaine. Placing his hands on her shoulders, he kept her at arms length and stared into her eyes trying to convey how strongly he felt about her. "I want you with me always!"

"Really?"

"I want you to be my ....." Bolitho ended off there, suddenly pulling Elaine into an embrace.'getting Inwardly wincing, wondering just how stupid can he get, she had only just agreed to move in with him what was he thinking about marriage for!!!" Neil lambarded himself..

"Uh, be your what Neil?" Elaine broke away from the embrace wanting him to finish the sentence that he started.

"Um.. eh.. ahh.. yes.. umm I want you to be my ...uhh ...the mother of my child, yes thats it " Stumbled through Bolitho turning an assortment of red colours trying desperately to avoid Elaine's questioning gaze!

Elaine just backed up a bit, stood there, not wanting to accept that answer. The side of her lip curled up into a half smirk. "I already am the mother of your child Neil.

Neil quitely stared down at the floor, unable to look at Elaine, who was standing in front of him waiting for an answer.' Looks what happened Mr Chatterbox!" Groaned Neil inwardly. ' Some tough security officer you turned out to be Bolitho, 5 minutes with a Jem'Hadar and you would tell him everything you know!'

God damn it Bolitho keep it zipped, you know you don't want to push her into anything and look what you've got yourself into!'

Bolitho shook away any mental doubts he had and exhaled deeply, took a step forward and went down on one knee in front of Elaine after a moment of gathering mental strength Bolitho raised his eye's and looked into Elaine's eyes

Elaine looked at Neil who was down on one knee and she knew what he was about to do. Closing her eyes for a second, she opened them slowly, her face void of softening incredibly. Nervous joy shot through her, realizing that she was going to be permanently with this man for the rest of her life, if fate would permit it. She studied his facial features and they way he had moved several times before this moment, but it was as if, he was going to offer everything he had, including his soul right to her at that very moment.

Gently Bolitho took Elaine's one hand and clasped it between both of his own and continued to look her in the eye."Elaine Elizabeth O'Hare.... " Neil was surprised at just how calm his voice sounded. The way his heart was beating he was sure Elaine would tell him to put away the drums and get serious.

"Elaine I love you, I don't have very much, but I will offer you everything I have, all that I am. You hold my heart in your caring hands now, make me the happiest man in the known universe and become my wife. Elaine! Will you marry me?"

O'Hare's hand flew up to her mouth and her eyes started to tear up. The actuality of the moment at hand had finally struck her across the face with an awesome blow with the words that Neil spoke. A thousand thoughts ran themselves like a marathon across her mind. Elaine took her hand and wiped the tears away, her mouth serenely curved up into a sensual, full bodied smile. The dim light in the room seemed to dance in Neil's eyes as he waited for the response that he so desperately wanted to hear. She regarded him for a moment. What seemed to be a short moment for O'Hare was in actual fact. an eternity in waiting for Bolitho. Looking down at him with misty green eyes, she spoke quietly. "Yes."

Neil watched a hundred emotions play across Elaine's face, as she looked down at him. It seemed to last for ever, Neil was hanging on every drawn in breath of Elaine's as he nervously waited for an answer from the women he loved.Finally the answer and Neil felt himself getting a little light headed. Tears filled his eyes at Elaine's response. Standing up, Neil embraced the women he loved. Feeling her body mold into him, he whispered into her ear."for the record.....I am now the happiest man in the universe ...."

"We are ready for you now Captain"
by Captain Robert Edward Lee Price

Captain Price listened with great interest to what Lieutenant Commander Thomas had to say. He admitted that he had often wondered what was on Chris' mind when he'd grow quiet and thought about his departed wife. Being the Captain, Lee was privy to the 'Commanders record and knew she'd been lost on Starbase 81, though Chris was never forthcoming with the details. Possibly because the entire incident was classified, or possibly because it simply hurt too much to speak of. Price always respected that as being a private topic not to be brought up.

When Chris suggested that he take some of his accumulated shore leave time, Captain Price thought that was an excellent idea. The war had just ended after two long and grueling years against the Dominion. Chris was still unsure as to what really happened with his wife, and now,. . . now it appeared as if his inquiries into the circumstances surrounding Gwynn's death had caused Starfleet Intelligence to take steps to silence Thomas by assigning him to a Starship under Intelligence control where they could order him to remain quiet. Or worse. If Chris took a few weeks leave, it might buy the Captain and Commander Casey with enough time to search into these transfer orders and try to get to the bottom of what was going on.

"Give Commander Casey the details of your shore leave request. I'll pre-approve them 'mate. It will give us time to track down where these orders came from and why." Captain Price nodded.

"Thank you Captain." Chris replied. "You will do so discretely I take it sir?" he added.

"Of course 'mate. We will treat all of this with the highest regard for confidentiality." Lee nodded.

"Thank you sir. Please understand. . . . It is not me I'm worried about here. These men. . . . they are ruthless. If they even suspect you are in any way assisting me, well, they probably wouldn't think twice about doing something about it." Chris warned.

Casey smiled, "Don't worry Chris. We can handle whatever they have to throw at us." the First Officer said in a rather cocky tone.

Chris just glanced at Deiran and didn't say anything. He knew it would be pointless. the Commander wasn't going to believe how cut throat Starfleet Intelligence could be until he saw it with his own eyes.

Interrupting their conversations, a hail came through.

["Sorry to interrupt you Captain. But I have a incoming priority message from Admiral Braggits at Starfleet Command."] Ensign Tam Li explained over the channel.

"Standby 'mate." Lee replied, then closed the channel. "Are we finished 'Commander?"

"Yes sir, unless you of Commander Casey have any further questions." Chris explained.

"Computer, release security locks on this Ready Room." Captain Price called out. The computer acknowledged with a tone.

"I need to take this hail, give Commander Casey any of the details required for your shore leave 'mate."

"Thank you Captain. I hope you have luck tracking down the origin of those orders." Chris nodded.

Activating the communication channel, Lee turned and faced his monitor. "Ensign, pipe the Admiral in here."

["Aye sir."]

The image of Admiral Braggits appeared on the view screen. The old man seemed pleased. Not a good sign by any means.

"What can I do for you Admiral?" Captain Price greeted.

["Congratulations on surviving the final battles of the Dominion war Captain Price. It is my understanding that the Galaxy was pivotal in allowing the task force to succeed at the battle of the line."]

"Thank you Admiral. We all did our best to put an end to this long and grueling conflict sir." Captain Price replied diplomatically.

["Well, an end it has come to Price. And now down to other matters at hand. The board of inquiry is ready to see you about the Galaxy's last mission."] Braggits smiled wickedly.

"The temporal authorities? I was wondering when they'd get around to it Admiral." Captain Price replied calmly.

["The war has kept things busy, but now that that is over with, I made this inquiry a priority. . . ."] Braggits didn't go to any lengths to hide his pleasure at seeing Captain Price dragged into a hearing with the temporal authorities.

"When are they to arrive Admiral?" Lee inquired.

["Oh, they are not arriving Captain Price. You are to hand over temporary command of the Galaxy to your First officer and take a shuttle back here to Starfleet Command. You will need to leave immediately if you are to arrive on time for the board of inquiry."]

"But Admiral, the relief effort is underway and our people are encountering resistance. A small group of terrorists on the planet calling themselves the CLA have taken to sabotage and. . . ." Captain Price explained before being cut off by Admiral Braggits.

["No excuses Price. Commander Casey is more than qualified to handle a simple relief effort in your absence. You will hand over command, board a shuttle and report to Starfleet headquarters immediately for full debriefing by the Temporal Authorities board of inquiry. Is that clear Captain?"] Braggits barked.

"Crystal clear Admiral." Lee consigned.

["Good. I will look forward to seeing you when you arrive back here on Earth. Admiral Braggits out."]

The channel closed while Lee let out a sigh. He knew this was coming sooner or later. He only wish it wasn't happening right now while reports of CLA terrorists were coming in from the planet.

Exiting his ready room, Lee could see Commander Casey and Lieutenant Commander Thomas filling out the necessary orders to grant him his requested shore leave. Lee walked over.

"Just finished filling out the shore leave request Captain. We just need your authorization sir." Deiran explained showing Price the padd.

Lee took it, barely glanced at the thing, only making out the words "Fishing trip" and "Lieutenant Commander Thomas" before slamming his thumb print onto the appropriate area to grant the authorization.

"Looks like Chris won't be the only one leaving 'mate." the Captain said handing the padd back to Casey.

"What do you mean sir?" Deiran asked.

"That was Admiral Braggits, they want me to report back to Starfleet Headquarters to face a board of inquiry by the Temporal Authorities over our last mission." Lee explained.

"You knew that was coming. . . ." Chris commented.

"Aye. It's just the timing that is rotten. What with all this CLA activity on the planet and all." Captain Price explained. Then looking at Commander Casey, he added, "You'll be in command Commander, while I'm away. Lieutenant Commander Morris will assume your duties as First Officer. Continue with checking into what we discussed earlier. . . ." Captain Price said carefully, referring to the origin of Lieutenant Commander Thomas' transfer orders.

Deiran picked up on what the Captain meant right away. "I will sir. Hopefully I'll know something before either of you return to the Galaxy. I have a couple of sources I can use to check into it." he smiled.

"I bet you 'ave 'mate. Is the Yosemite flight ready?" Lee asked.

Chris nodded, "I think Lieutenant Commander Ti Miran Casey said she is and standing by in shuttle bay two."

Captain Price turned and gave Lieutenant Commander Thomas a nod. "Fair dinkum, I'll take her then. Hopefully this won't take longer than a few days. A week at most. You be sure to take care of the away teams in my absence Commander." Lee explained. Then turning to face Thomas added, "And you. . . . You enjoy your fishing trip 'Commander. You've earned a rest. When you get back we should have this all sorted out." the Captain smiled.

Chris nodded. Though "fishing" for amphibious creatures with a hook and line was the furthest thing on his mind at the time he made the request. It was more of the sort of "fishing for the truth" that was on his mind. The truth about what happened at Starbase 81 to his wife. Before Starfleet Intelligence could do anything to stop him.

"Well, The Galaxy is yours 'mate. Computer, transfer all command codes to Commander Deiran Casey. Authorization Price gamma, alpha, one, three, seven."

["Command codes transferred. Commander Deiran Casey now in command of Starship Galaxy."] the computer intoned in a female voice.

"G'day 'mates. See you when this inquiry is over."

"G'Day Captain. Break a leg with that board of inquiry. I'm sure they will see things your way sir." Deiran smiled.

Lee nodded. "I hope so 'mate. G'Day." Captain Price then turned, walked to the turbolift and exited the bridge.

Taking a deep breath, Deiran turned his attentions back to Chris. "Well, with the Captain's authorization of your shore leave, you are now officially off duty mister." With a devilish smile he added, "So what are you doing on my bridge? Get out of here and have a good time. I should know about that other thing by the time you get back. And be sure to bring be a good sized salmon. It's Miran's favorite."

Chris gave a serious nod. "I will do that Commander." He then moved to exit the bridge. Already thinking of the supplies he'd need to take to successfully bypass the security systems at Starbase 81.

"Letter from Home"
By: Ensign Kale Danal
Security Officer

It had been three days since Kale had got any rest at all, is face was dirty and he was moving rather slowly. Walking into his quarters he saw that there was messages waiting for him, sitting down at the desk he activated the console. His face was illumated by the glow off the monitor, the face of a angle no more of a saint appread his mother. Her smile could transend any barrier, time, space any distance. She was a woman in her late 40's with soft blond hair, "Hi Kale, I guess your out now huh? well that is alright, I just wanted to let you know that we are doing fine. The Dominion didn't do that much damage to the spa it can be rebuilt, Samara is going to take over running it she loves Serenity Cove so much. I tired to tell Jaden that she was ready to do it, but he wasn't ready to let go himself. I've been elected into the ruling goverment of Betazed, You are speaking to Rana Danal, daughter of the 4th house, holder of the scared scrolls of Fanol" she paused then continued.

"Honey, when can you come home? I miss you very much, you father wanted me to ask you that your engagment is months away and he would like to know if she will join your there on the Galaxy or will you retire and come home? Well my son, I've got to go I'm needed at the capital, love you always," signed Rana Danal.

Kale froze the image and looked at his mother, he wished he had the strengh and grace that she had in her. Standing up he headed for the bathroom, after a quick shower he sliped on some shorts and got into bed.

He fell asleep as soon has his head hit the pillows, still thinking about everything that had happened.

"Security officer turned Counselor?"
By: Lt. JG Tim O'Connell, Security
Ensign Kale Danal, Security
USS Galaxy

Kale stood at the bar in tenforward, he was waiting on Tim to come and met him for dinner. Kale thought that since the death of his wife he would try and cheer him up and make him forget for a moment if he could.

Tim walked in and spotted Kale in the corner, he rolled his eyes and headed over. He plopped across from the betaziod listlessly and stared at him, "ok let's eat I'm hungry."

"Geez, you look like hell. Here drink this" Turning, "Waiter!" Kale yelled then turned back to Tim. "What do you want to eat?" he asked.

Tim looked at the Betazoid, "just a sandwich." he replied still trying to hide his feelings. He looked at Kale and replied, "Of course I look like hell you'd look like crap if you had my day."

Kale could pick up Tim's thoughts, Kale smiled. "So tell me about it, maybe I can help some how" Kale said.

Tim still was controlling him self, "I doubt you could fathom it." His expression got hard. "I can't even hate the dominion for it... if it was the breen or the Jem hadar I could make them pay but terrorists...." he stopped knowing he was saying too much.

~Tim, you can't hide from me, I'm the one person you can't hide from not even in that dark place you are moving to in your mind~ Kale told Tim Telepathicly.

Tim visibly flinched, ~Someone has to pay ~ he thought back. ~help me kill them~

Kale was picking up his thoughts, "You know that we can't do that, if we did then we wouldn't be any better then them, Tim" Kale said.

Tim glared over and said softly but with iron in his voice, "she was my wife, I have the rite of vengance, If this had happened on Quonos I could take their hearts with my bare hands..." he looked at Kale, "I want them to pay." he finished.

"Tim, your letting the angry over take your being, she wouldn't want that for you. Fight that feeling, not the people that done this" Kale said.

Tim took a ragged breath, "I know but I don't have time for anything else, anger is easiest to feel. I just need to stay busy." He waited for his meal, "I just miss her..." he finished shoving down his emotions, "why did this happen?" he asked quietly.

"It happen because some one thought that this would make a point, all it did was make pain. Tim, I can help you dull the painful memories" Kale said.

Tim looked at him, "I need my pain I have to deal with it whatever you have to offer is only temporary." He finally smiled a small smile, "you know the first time she met Neil he asked me about her spots, how far they go down.... she was hiding behind me and answered him." he finished with a small chuckle.

Kale smiled, "Yes, I didn't have the pleasure of meeting her but I bet she was wonderful person, Tim" Kale said.

Tim looked at Kale, "she was, just ask spud." he shook his head as the meal was finally laid out before them. "they got along so well considering the first time they met she had to ask her if the rumors were true about me and Elaine sleeping together." Tim still had a sad smile on his face.

"Tim, your pain will fade but the memory of her will not" Kale said as he read Tim's mind giving a smile.

"I know Kale I know." He looked at the Betaziod, "ever considered changing to a counselor you're pretty good, do a reverse of the typical transfer path on this ship."

Kale laughed, "I had thought about it, but I would miss you guys too much" Kale said taking a sip of his drink.

Tim nodded, "besides isn't that the cliche Betazoids become counselors. Drawn to it like the Irish to law enforcement." He looked at the young officer, "hell I'd miss you too who else can I harass and abuse and run murder mysteries on the holodeck with."

"True, Betaziods are the moth to a flame in counseling, but I love secrutity and the people I work with" Kale said.

Tim smiled, "and you do a good job" He looked serious for a minute, "how are you feeling ?" he asked remembering Kale's attempt at suicide.

Kale smile grew in size, "I'm just fine and this time I really mean it, doctor and counselors have worked me over and over agian. I'm a fighter" he said smiling.

Tim laughed remembering the bar fight, the first time he had laughed in a while, "now answer me one question how the hell was Elaine able to know what happened ?"

"Well I don't know, I guess there is a link there between us that I don't know about. Haven't got a clue about it" Kale said.

Tim shrugged, "I had no clue what was going on.... I do need to talk to her... she doesn't know yet and let me tell her." Tim gave Kale a serious look.

"Sure, I think she would like to hear it from you more then me, seeing how I almost killed myself I don't think I would be wise to tell her" Kale replied.

Tim looked at Kale and growled, "do not ever do that again, that is an order Ensign." he then grinned, "And I'd hate to have to to the damned paperwork... I hate paperwork."

"I won't, you know that wasn't me doing that" Kale said shaking his head. "Now lets eat before this chef salad gets cold" Kale said laughing.

Tim nodded, "agreed" he dug in to his sandwich.

"Surprises Come in Small Packages"
by Lt. Cmdr. Ronni Morris
CSO, USS Galaxy

Raising her hand to cover the yawn, Ronni shook her head. She looked over the transporter manifest and signaled the ok. It was a sign of how swamped that they were, that Ronni was having to handle the authorizations of all transporter cargo shipments to and from the planet.

She watched the cases of food stuffs and medical supplies head down. "I can't believe that Starfleet authorized that much BioMedic gel to be transferred down." she thought. She had a hard time still believing that the Cardassians deserved that much consideration. Cardassian and Dominion ships had destroyed two of Delphi's only four battle cruisers. "They danced with the Devil and now they pay the price!" she said quietly.

A signal from planetside indicated that a crate of Dominion weapons and computer files were ready to be beamed up. Looking over the list, it looked ok, but something about the different materials seemed strange, but she couldn't pinpoint it. "I must be tired." she said. The Lieutenant Rameriez working next to her just smiled.

The cases beamed up and Ronni went over with her tricorder. She scanner the materials again. No explosives, or the ship wouldn't have allowed the cases on board. Something still bothered her, but she couldn't lay her finger on it. Using the anti-gravity braces, she moved the first case over to a secured pallet. As she got started to move the second, she suddenly knew. "Level 4 force field over the secured pallet. Now!!" she screamed. She tossed the second case, bearing CLA etched lightly into the side, onto the secured pallet, and ducked as the force field snapped in place. The explosion shook the ship slightly, and knocked Ronni back into the newly arrived cases.

Deiran's voice came over the console next to her. "What happened?!" he said.

Shaking the cobwebs out of her head, and seeing that Lt. Rameriez was ok, she tapped the comm and said, "A little gift from the CLA. No real damage. It's my fault. I wasn't paying attention and almost let a disaster happen. I'll bring up a report."

"I'll expect it within the hour. Casey out."

Ronni sighed. Lt. Rameriez said, "What was it? I saw the same list and I saw no explosives."

Ronni tapped up the list of items, "In the first case, there were Caedien Coils. Used in the Jem'hdar computers for navigation. The second case held liquid Lethisian and a Breen Aquilian actuator. When the Coils were moved, the actuator switched on and started the Lethisian to leak. The exposed Lethisian would signal the Coils to explode. If that didn't get us, the Lethisian couldn't have been easily contained." she said.

"CLA. A lot of work for a message." said the Lieutenant, shaking his head.

"Yes, but even the attempt must have been worth it. Call a clean up crew to handle the mess, and encase the rest of the crates in a force field for later. I have a report to write and an apology to make." she said with a sigh.

Collateral Damage
Lt(jg) TIm O'Connell

Cardassia prime:

The security/medical team were treating casualties at a swift pace. Tim was watching the crowd, keeping an eye out for any suspicious activity. So far it was quiet. The damage to the city was extensive, Tim shook his head Those Jem Hadar took their jobs VERY seriously.

One of the building support struts creaked. The crew set up a replicator and began to distribute food and blankets to the gathered Cardassians. He'd never say this to any Bajoran crewmember, but he felt for the Cardassians a proud people damaged by a foolish decision by their leaders. After battle we had to help them back up and he knew it had to be hard to take help from people your leaders just finished telling them were your enemies. And your former allies engaged in genocide against you.

The medical staff treated the wounded, the officers scanned the crowd with both tricorders and eyes. So far nice and routine. However that structure they were using for shelter was unstable. The officers began to move the medics and cardassians away froim the building to a secured opening.

Just then a child darted from his Mother's grasp and in to the building. Tim headed in after him.

Just then a small child ran back out and the building gave over, Trapping Tim.

"We have an officer trapped."

The medical team, the security officers and a group of civillians began to move rubble uncovering the unconcious officer,

"bp's 90/60, weak breath sounds on both sides, he's shocky, bradying down, crush injuries to all 4 quadrants. He needs to be stabelized first then beamned back to teh ship."

Speed was everything as the medics worked fast to stabelize the officer. "ok internal injuries are steablozed he will need surgery on the ship, Med team to Galaxy emergency transport 2 to sickbay."

A beam dissolved the unconcious officer and a med tech in to sickbay.

"What do you got"

"Mid 20's Male Terran LOC GCS of 8, crush injuries, bp's 80/60, breath weak and thready, 30 cc's tri ox in the field, lost 2 litres blood, replaced with plasma pack. Flail chest right side, trapped 30/45 minutes under a building.

"Get him to surgury suite now, he needs immediate stabliziation."

==3 hours later.==

"He'll live. next 24 hours will be critical for neural function but I don't forsee any problems."

"Released"
by, Lt. Raesene Hermedhie

Lt. Hermedhie finally was able to leave the Medical Bay after having to lay there for three more days. Upon this release, he was only ordered to take it easy.

And he planned to. He also planned to eventually head down to Cardassia for a look around. And to protect his major interest down there: Dierdren Mhistecai. It was not that he did not trust the Security staff... It was the fact that he felt better doing things himself.

But that would only happen after he was cleared for duty. And that would not be for another two-four days...

"For those who Know us, Death is not Enough"

by Lt Commander Endris Gakor-Albrecht,
Lt Commander Matthew Albrecht,
and various NPC's

*** Icarian City, Emergency Shelter Delta ***

The rescued did not like the Quonset huts, but despite their lack of Cardassian aesthetics, they were efficient and large enough to hold several families in one structure. They were cooled during the hot arid days and warm during the desert nights. The community now contained almost 70 healthy Cardassians, and 13 wounded recovering in the field hospital. Almost half of these individuals resented the help the Federation was providing, but inside the community, everyone seemed to pull together. The natives saw the efforts to assist their people were kind and gentle in nature. If it were not for the continued CLA acts of disruption, everything would be fine.

By now, hover cranes and transporters had cleared most of the rubble away. Bodies and other remains, too numerous to count; had been identified by their organic compounds and had been transported to a central gravesite. Enough land was cleared that Citizens would be free to rebuild at their own pace soon. Much had been accomplished, but there was still more to do.

The subways under the city proved to be the Nexus for the CLA operatives who wanted to push all foreigners from Cardassian soil. Their methods were brutal, comparable to the ethnic cleansing death squads of Kosovo. Endris recalled the history tape Matthew had once dug out of storage when he was considering themes for his legal thesis. The material had been too obscure to be included in the Academy's general history course, but the security officer had been toying with the idea of making a comparative study of human suffering as one point to defend an argument to soften the Prime directive.

The idea being some atrocities are too extensive to be ignored and thus demand intervention. The current relief effort would be an example of this argument. Although the Cardassians brought disaster down on themselves by turning on their Dominion allies, their defection had played a pivotal role in winning the war. Unfortunately, the price of their treachery had been the destruction of most of their home world.

Doctor Gakor was visiting Shelter Delta to check up on Cyjea; the first girl she had found alive. At the time, the field hospital had not been in place, and Endris had sent her charge up to the ship to heal. She had beamed down from the Galaxy after the ship's technology had healed her. It was hard for the young girl to realize the rest of her family had perished in the massacre. Luck smiled on Cyjea. An elderly Cardassian couple, farmers by trade, had successfully hidden from the Jem 'Hadar and Breen purging squads in a hollow space beneath the farm's septic tank. Now that the fighting had stopped, the pair wandered in to the ruins of Icarian City. They observed the camp's activities for several hours before committing to a course of action. Finally, their dwindling supply of food and water influenced them to risk assisting Federation relief efforts. They also expressed interest in adopting Cyjea as their new daughter. Maybe the girl couldn't have her original family, but a new one in the midst of such destruction had to prove encouraging.

*** Outside the communal mess area, Icarian city, Shelter Delta ***

Matthew stood with the dull metallic platter clutched in his left hand. The spork skidded across the wide entree section, dragging white and brown mush along with it, smearing the platter. Bits of reddish jelly clung to the sides of the small dessert portion of the tray. The lieutenant commander made his way through the crowded outdoor eatery to the bank of recyclers arrayed by the opening that led to the building materials stockpile.

As he slid his tray into the recycler slot, a hand tentatively brushed his shoulder. His head snapped around, hand poised near his hip, and Albrecht saw a male Cardassian, tall and looking like he must have been quite strong at one time, shying back as if afraid of retaliation. The gray-skinned, middle-aged man had the appearance of a once-great soldier, but now looked tired and beaten. Matthew forced himself to look relaxed. "Yes, what can I do for you?" he asked, though the idea still ran contrary to training.

"Commander," began the native. "I am Dyltak. May I ask you a question?" He was polite to the point of subservience.

The ASec raised an eyebrow, "Dyltak, it is good to know you. I am lieutenant commander Matthew Albrecht. Ask me anything you like," he prompted. The conversation was starting strangely, but then again, he thought, it seemed that every conversation had been strange since arriving on the desert planet. Even the conversations with his own wife.

The Cardassian summoned up his nerve, and blurted out his question. "When do we begin construction of the actual camp?"

Matthew was confused by the question. He chose to admit his confusion to the other man, to avoid misunderstandings. "Dyltak, I don’t understand. This is the only camp you will need. From here, the citizens of Icarian City will be able to carry out the reconstruction of their homes and businesses."

Dyltak’s brow furrowed, but soon cleared with understanding. "I see, commander. So there is to be no forced labor?" Matthew shook his head ‘no’.

The Cardie continued, his eyes turned skyward in thought, "When I was much younger, I was a soldier on Bajor. We had camps. The Bajorans constructed the camps with their hands. When a camp was complete, we would march them out to start building another, and another. There were always more bodies, never enough room," he paused. "A family unit constructed my first barracks on Bajor. The workmanship was. . . adequate. Quite remarkable, really, considering the family had been incense merchants before the occupation. The mother’s hands, after a day’s work, were so callused and gnarled."

Albrecht stood silently during the pause that followed. Eventually, he felt that he had to reply in some way to the other man’s rambling. "There are many Bajorans in Star Fleet," he supplied.

Dyltak glanced at Matthew, meeting his eyes. "Yes, ‘commander, there are. You know, I have found myself wondering, philosophizing, if you will, this past couple of weeks. I have begun to believe that we need, I need, to suffer through this trying time and rebuild what we have lost, as an atonement. I wish you would all leave, and let us do this the hard, painful way that we have bought ourselves."

The officer was speechless. How to reply to that comment? The commander’s comm badge chirped, demanding his attention. Dyltak turned to go, "Farewell, ‘commander," said the Cardassian survivor.

Matthew tapped his badge, "Albrecht here, go ahead Galaxy." The conversation had disturbed him.

"Commander," came the voice of Ensign Salt, "we have another injured officer in Sickbay. Tim O’Connell has joined Heather. Tim had a building fall on him!"

Albrecht closed his eyes. Not only were the injured personnel piling up like firewood on a bonfire, but they were also coming largely from amongst the ranks of his friends. "Astrid, I’ll beam up right away. Have you spoken to ‘commander Sunder about this? He’s going to hit the roof if he hasn’t already."

A pause, and the woman’s voice returned. "The chief is still in his quarters, ‘commander. All of his work is being sent attention lieutenant commander Albrecht. I thought you knew. . ."

Approaching the pattern enhancer-surrounded beam out area, the ASec was puzzled. How long had this been going on? Why hadn’t Ursa sent him a note to explain his hermitage? Of course, Matthew hadn’t seen his friend and commanding officer since before Matthew had learned of Cat’s bizarre death. Well, he decided, if Ursa wanted to shift a little responsibility his way for a bit, then he was just the assistant chief for the job!

After signaling the Galaxy for a beam-up, the officer began amending a plan he had been developing to finally catalogue and map the underground subway tunnel system. With Ursa apparently out of the action for the time being, Matthew knew that he would have to take the initiative to bring the CLA situation under control.

Since the subterranean byways were the favorite transportation of the CLA, something would have to be done about them to protect against further terrorist tantrums. Matthew was considering the option of flooding the tunnel network with charged Saleniox gas. If performed quickly enough, the charged particles in the gas would allow for a clear sensor image of the network. The idea had occurred to him after Endris described a technique used to image intestines before the advent of modern medical sensors, utilizing irradiated substances flowing through a person’s digestive tract.

Additionally, Saleniox had an extremely low toxicity and could be breathed for hours with little or no effect. Since the three-dimensionality of the tunnels was a factor, and temperature and ventilation would affect the rate of spread of the gas, it could take several applications and a concentration of the Galaxy’s sensor capability, over the course of days, to properly map them out. He wondered what other environmental concerns might complicate the plan even further, as the shimmering transporter beam systematically disassembled him for return to the ship in orbit above Cardassia.

"Visiting Time is...."
By: Lt. JG Tim O'Connell, Security
Ensign Kale Danal, Secuity

Kale was walking down the corridor, heading to sickbay for a check up. Everything that had he had been through it was standard procedure. Walking in he was surprised to see Tim laying on a bio bed, walking over to him. "Hey, what happen to you?" he asked.

Tim looked up, "I don't remember, one minute I'm on the planet's surface helping with survivors, and next thing youknow I'm here, somehting about a building collapse."

"Sounds painful, was the building hurt?" Kale asked giving a half smile.

Tim grinned, "well it couldn't be worse then me it feels like a Bolian took a shit in my mouth."

Kale laughed, "Well is there anything that you need I can get?" he asked.

Tim thought for a second, "tell people I'm gonna live, the last thing I want is to find out half the ship thinks I'm dead." He struggled to sit up, "and let Neil know he's right about one thing, this place sucks."

Kale bowed his head, "I shall spread the word. So when do they think you'll be able to get out of here?" Kale asked.

"I have no clue, they are not telling me a thing," He looked around, "but it will be a few days Iguess."

Kale gave an evil smile, "I could look around...." he trailed off tapping his head signaling that he could scan their minds.

Tim chuckled, "you could, but that would be wrong, and besides you might find out more then you wanted to know, like that some doctor has the hots for you or something."

"Nah, that would would be funny. I've only got eyes for one right now, and now I'm not telling who that is just yet" Kale said. smiling.

Tim raised an eyebrow, "oh really." He smiled, "so can I get a clue or should I read your mind?"

Kale raised his eyebrow, "You couldn't do that, you are a Terran" Kale replied.

Tim looked at him, "ok ok small technicallity but I could ask Lex to peek around. she owes me a favor or 2 anyway."

Kale laughed at that, "She is only part Betaziod, she couldn't read my mind I'm to strong" Kale said laughing.

Tim smiled, "so then I guess your secret is safe" he sighed ~another happy person~

Kale's smile faded picking up Tim's thought, "I am sorry about your wife. Is there anything more I can do?" he asked.

Tim blinked, "not much more, I didn't mean to think that, I'm sorry."

"You know that life is very hard, being alone is one of the most scaryest things I could think of" Kale said then continued. "Don't be sorry, it is natural" he finished.

Tim smiled, "thanks, It's just I found out so suddenly and with Neil and Elaine getting together so fast."

"Yes, I know." Kale said remember his arranged marrage.

Tim smiled, "so who has you all interested."

Kale looked up, "I see, you were trying to get me to say her name in a moment of confussion. Well that won't work, Tim" Kale said smiling.

Tim smiled, "an old cop's trick," He looked at Kale, "If you want yourt secrets that's fine, but now I'm curious."

"You'll never guess it, why are you so interested in my personal life?" Kale said laughing.

"I don't have one, so I'm living vicariously through my friends, and Neil has been so boring lately," Tim grinned, "and not giving any details."

"Ah, now the truth comes out. I'll tell you a hint, she is her own person" Kale said laughing knowing that it wasn't much of a hint.

Tim laughed, "well I'll try and find out." Tim shifted a bit, "Just next time, I'll stay away from buildings."

"Do that, I'm sure that building came out of no where and slammed into you. Well I need to go, gonna send mom a letter before lunch." Kale said smiling.

Tim smiled, "ok thanks for dropping by. I better tell my folks i'm ok too, they worry

"No problem, call me if you need something. I do know a good dirty joke" Kale said with an evil smile.

Tim smiled, "I most certainly will."

Ringside Seats

Lt(jg) Tim O'Connell
Lt(jg) Elaine O'Hare
Ens. Kale Danal

Elaine made her way down to sick bay for her checkup. Grinning in a cartoonish fasion, she strutted into the bay. Walking right past Tim and Kale, she smiled. "Hi guys." Not bothering to stop, she continued to walk to her appointment.

Tim looked at her, "Hi Lainey"

Something registered in O'Hare's brain and she froze. Turning around, her eyes grew wide as she hunkered down and stared at Tim in the bed.

"Some body got some last night" Kale said laughing.

Walking up beside him, still wearing a very goofy grin, she stated. "Okay, who did you get into a fight with?"

Tim looked at Kale, "It sure wasn't me, and how the hell do you know that." He turned to Elaine, "A building." He smiled, "don't ask. I still don't remember everything,"

Kale looked at Tim, "Do what? I didn't do anything".

"Ah, a building." Still smiling, she stated. "Ouch. Nothing like having a building give you a great big hug."

"So what's up with the spud?" Kale asked.

Tim smiled, "yea I guess you could say that."

Pulling a chair up to the biobed, Elaine grinned. "I've been in here alot lately." Turning to Kale, she smirked. "You already know."

Kale smiled, "Yep, Congratulations" he said kissing her on the check.

"Thanks Dag. I'm estatic."

Tim was now confused and his normally good mood had been frayed by a few pieces of bad news lately plus the injury, "will someone tell me what in the hell is going on?"

"Set a date, yet?" he asked.

"Nope, not yet. We kind of got caught up in the moment...so to speak."

Kale looked over at Tim and Smiled. "Nurse! Get this guy a mood enhancer. Nah, just bring some alcohol over to him" Kale said to the nurse.

"Tell him, Spud" Kale said.

Giggling, Spud leaned in close to Tim and raised her eyebrows. "He asked me."

"And she said yes" Kale finished for her.

"Dagger!"

"Sorry" Kale said lowing his head to hid the smile.

Tim was shocked, "you're getting married?" he managed to croak out.

"Yeah......" Elaine rolled her eyes and grinned.

~does she know?~ he though back.

"Yep, she knows" Kale said laughing.

~Oh no, she doesn't know~ Kale thought.

"I can't wait to tell Eshar. She's going to be so excitied."

Elaine rambled on for five minutes or so, just on her plans for the biggest wedding anyone has ever seen. The dresses, cake, bridesmaids, invitations. She went on and on and on.

Tim winced at the mention of her name, He looked away for a second lost in his thoughts, he finally spoke up, "elaine she's dead."

Kale walked over to stand by Elaine, puting his arm around her.

Mid ramble, Elaine stopped. "No she's not. I just talked to her at the embassy a few weeks ago. Everything was fine."

~Its true, Spud. She was killed~ Kale told her telepathicly.

A little temper flowed through in Tim's response, "they sent me a letter, it's true."

Shaking her head, Elaine stated firmly. "No...no...she's not." Looking up at the ceiling, O'Hare refused to accept the fact that her best friend was killed.

Kale lowered his head, "It was a bombing at the Embassy, she was killed" Kale said.

Tim looked at her, "It's true, I wish it wasn't."

Blinking she looked at the both of them. Something in her gut told her that what they were saying was the truth, and a single tear flowed from her eye. "She's not dead. Not Eshar. Not.....her."

Tim hated himself for having to tell her on what should have been the happiest day of her life, "I thought you knew... It made the news service, I didn't want you to find out this way."

Elaine flashed him a defensive look. "You know me, when have I ever watched the freakin news!" Her voice raised and she glared at Tim. "And when in the world were you going to tell me? AT HER WAKE?"

Kale turned and looked away from them, folding his arms in front of his chest. "Another candle burnt out before its time" Kale said in a soleme whisper.

Tim snapped back, "excuse me we were in combat, I thought it could wait untill we were done getting shot at."

"Oh yeah. That's a good idea. Wait and tell me my best friend is dead. Cool. Very slick." Elaine stood up and angerly started to walk from the sick bay.

Turning on her heel, she strutted back over. "You should have told ME."

Kale turned on his heels, "LOOK, Look around you both. There is death and destruction around us, husbands without wifes, wifes without husbands and children without parents. So let us not fight, we are a family" Kale said turning away from them again.

"Bite off Kale." Elaine stated plainly. Tapping her foot, the anger was apparent, but Elaine had grown up a tad and she kept herself under control.

Kale looked over, "Fine, Tim. you know where to fine me if you need anything" Kale said turning and heading for the doors.

Tim spoke plainly, "this is the first time I have seen you. There was no other time to tell you, I just wish I didn't need to." His eyes welled up with tears as he looked at someone he considered a dear friend, "I'm sorry I waited this long."

Raising her hands in the air once more, O'Hare was frustrated. Shaking her head, her eyes welled with tears. "I've about had all I can take." Turning on her heel, she walked from the bay once more. This time leaving and heading to her and Neil's quarters.

Tim watched her go, "thanks for visiting." was all he said

Kale stopped Elaine in the corridor, "You are a self centered person, Lt." he said to her.

"Excuse me ENSIGN?"

"Didn't you ever stop to think that Tim might need a friend right now, not a fight with you. Put me on report if you want, but at least I care about my friends when they are moruning for there loved one" Kale said to her.

Elaine rolled her eyes. "Tim has you as a friend. Who could ask for anything more?"

Tim quickly wiped his eyes and began to regain control that he had almost lost in front of Elaine. ~I'll deal with this later~ he told himself mentally.

"Hell, Elaine. You've been here longer then me, he needs you too not just me. I know he should have told you, but did you think that he didn't cause you being pregnant?" Kale asked.

"What? Oh here we go. Elaine, the little pregnant girl. Let me add you to the list of people that want me to sit down for the next 6 months. I am capable of handling myself. Pregnant or not damnit!"

"I'm not saying anything about what you should or shouldn't do, I'm just saying that Tim is in need of friends. Apperntly, you are more concerned about how you feel then him who just lost his wife Elaine, he lost is wife. Think how you would feel if Neil was killed." Kale said.

Growing pale, she leaned against the wall and shuttered. Tears still streaming down her face, she whispered in a low growl. "Dont you ever say that again."

"Don't worry, I won't. He should have told you, I agree on that." Kale said turning away from her.

Tim tried to get comfortable in the sickbay bed, but Elaine's innocent comment and his injury brought out the memories he had tried to repress. He'd have to deal with them but not now.

"I'm outta here." O'Hare stated angerly. Walking down the corridor, the tears refresed themselves.

She wiped them off her cheek roughly with the back of her hand as she tried once again to make her way back to her's and Neil's quarters.

"Fine, run and hide from the truth" Kale said turning and walking back into sickbay, he walked over to Tim. Kale could pick up his thoughts and it concerned him.

Lt. Shtik
Science Officer
"In the Middle"

Although business had resumed to normal aboard the bridge of the USS Galaxy there was still a lot of activity. Science station 1 was accumulating information from the planet's surface. Information that would help the landing parties identify civilian survivors as well as pockets of CLA resistance activity. At the same time, science station 2 was processing information from neighboring space in order to identify signs of activity within the wreckage left after the battle and transfer it to tactical. And Lt. Shtik was spending beta shift bouncing back and forth between the two locations like a man playing ping-pong with himself. His vulcan mind was quickly analyzing the data from both locations and interpreting it without letting the separate results overlap and contaminate each other. Yet as busy as his activity was, a part of his mind couldn't help thinking about what had happened when he had returned the wounded romulan to sickbay.

The science officer spared a moment to look down at Commander Casey in the captain's chair. He had not really had the opportunity to meet with Casey since his return to the Galaxy and it was hard to tell where he stood with the human. Between the Iceman's cool detachment and Shtik's vulcan control of emotion, both officers kept to a strictly professional attitude that was impossible to see beyond. Years ago, Casey had been a close friend of D'Tarna's prior to the vulcan's engagement; A friendship that had resulted in confusion for Shtik. However, that issue had been resolved long ago. But now Shtik's relationship with D'Tarna had once again become difficult. Shtik was forced to keep secrets from her that destroyed any chance for a successful reunion. Shtik had hurt the doctor by withholding information and he wasn't sure how her long time friend Deiran Casey would view the situation; or how it would affect his opinion of the science officer assigned to his shift.

The situation with D'Tarna was renewed as she attempted to save the life of the dying Romulan. The wounded alien had identified Shtik by an alias the vulcan had used while on Romulous. D'Tarna, overhearing this had put a couple more pieces of the puzzle together and once again confronted Shtik. Once again Shtik was forced to sidestep the issue and deny her the information she required.

Another data stream came in from station 2 forcing Shtik back into activity. As he pieced the fragments together and sent them to Ensign Li, he thought about how much easier it was sorting through this information than it was sorting through the kind of emotional information that he was constantly being bombarded with.

Pain, physical and otherwise

Lt(jg) TIm O'Connell
Ens. Kale Danal

Kale looked at Tim, there was so much that Tim wasn't dealing with. "Tim you have to face it, don't repress it" Kale said.

Tim snapped at Kale, "stay the hell out of my mind."

"You must deal with this, let me help you" Kale said.

Tim glared at Kale, "I am, in my own way."He then tried to change the subject, "Is Elaine Ok?"

"Tim, this is seriours. You have to see that you must deal with this now" Kale said more tough.

Tim looked at him, "I don't think so, I have to heal, then I have to study investigative training, then I have to help plan a wedding, I'm too busy, I'll put it in somewhere before the year 2500 ok?" he tried a grin to calm Kale down but it wasn't convincing.

"Fine, do what you want. Don't listen to me, no one ever does" Kale said.

Tim nodded, "I know your concerned, but if I deal with this I'll forget, I don't want to do that."

"You will never forget her, Tim face the fact that she is DEAD she isn't coming back!" Kale said.

Tim raised his voice, "that's what the letter said, I know that, she's dead our child is dead.." he finally admitted the one thing he hadn't told anyone.

"She was pregnant?" Kale asked.

Tim looked away, "yes, she found out, that was the big news she was going to tell me, defective birth control strikes again. She sent the letter and it came after the official notification."

"I'm sorry, Tim" kale said lowering his head.

Tim looked ashen, "see why I didn't want to tell Eliane right away. She does not need to know this." He was resolute in protecting the young Lt from this news.

"I see, but there is more your not facing. what is that?" Kale asked.

Tim's eyes snapped to Kale, "what are you talking about, I told you to stay out of my head."

"I'm trying to help you, Tim. Face it!" Kale said.

"I can't, It's too hard. They should have left me under that building. It would have been easier for me."

"I can make you face it, is that want you want?" Kale asked.

"I want to know why is it both of us are under buildings, I live and she dies." Tim said, admitting the guilt he felt for her death. "Why didn't I tell her not to go to the embassy.' he looked at Kale, "she told me she would stay here if I wanted. I told her no, it will be good for you. A promotion and all." His face showed pain, "I killed her."

"Tim, share your pain. You can't control what happened, that is something out of your control. This isn't your fault" kale said.

Tim glared at him, "It is, I told her to go, I was selfish, I wanted her off this ship because I knew we were going in to combat and I didn't want her hurt. and it got her killed."

"Stop it, Tim! This isn't your fault, you had no idea that would've happened" Kale said shaking Tim.

"I should have." He shook free from Kale's grasp. "Some how I should have, I'm supposed to protect the people I care about, and the one person I love more then anything right now and she ends up dead. I get hit by a building and live." He trailed off. "I should be dead too."

Kale pulled his phaser, "Fine, what me to kill you and put you out of your misery?" Kale asked.

Tim looked at him, "no then I'll just ruin your life too. You'll go to prison for murder, and again my fault." He gestured, "now put that away before someone notices."

"Well it would be worth going to prison just to quit hearing you whine" Kale said trying to make him mad.

Tim glared at him, "I do not wine, dagger. I am in a bad mood is all."

"Oh you are whining, yep a big whiner" Kale said.

Tim glared some more, "you do like your teeth? Keep this up and I can't promise yo'll keep them."

"Who knows, maybe you are right. It could be your fault, perhaps if me and Eshar had met and got together I could have talked her into dumping you" Kale said.

Tim shook visibly ~I am going to kill you~ He tried to lunga at Kale but was too weak to do a thing. "you bastard," he hissed, "If you ever mention her name again I will remove your heart."

"Yeah, right. From my angle you are a cripled man, who lays around and whines about the should'ves, could'ves and would'ves" Kale said.

Tim glared, "I lost someone special to me, and I could have stopped it..." he stopped when his voice broke, ~not now not now~

"Not now what?" Kale asked.

Tim looked at him, ~not now I can't lose control~

"Your losing control, I can see it Tim" Kale said.

The struggle was evidnet on his face, wiping his eyes and trying to stop the tears, Tim didn't say a thing for 15 minutes. "I'm supposed to be there for people, protect and serve, I can't do that and be come,"he paused then continued, "emotiuonal over every death."

"She was your WIFE! Tim" Kale said then continued. "Not some stanger you meet" Kale said.

Tim's eyes shined, "I know that which is why it's so hard."

"It will get easyer in time, I think we've talked enough about this. You need to rest, but this isn't over far from it" Kale said.

Tim gave a small, real smile, "you're right... we have." He looked at him, "thanks"

"I'm just trying to help" kale said ~I just hope you can forive me in the end~ Kale thought to himself.

“Assuming Command”
USS GALAXY
Commander Deiran Casey, Acting Captain

Deiran watched as the Captain boarded the turbolift. Deiran gave the man a knowing head nod of assurance and turned to Chris. He did not envy this man. That fishing trip was not going to be as easy as hook, line and sinker. Thomas was dealing with men who were ruthless and unpredictable. Those kind of men never made fair opponents.

Of course Casey wasn’t about to show concern about these men in front of others, it was his way. He was sure that Karyn would see right through him if she saw his behavior. She was getting to the point where she could read his mind by just observing his actions.

Casey surveyed the Bridge and saw that Ronni was elsewhere.

“Casey to Morris,” he said after tapping his badge.

[“Aye Commander, what do you need?”] the blue science officer replied.

“Yeah Ronni, the Captain has been called to visit Starfleet Command. I have assumed command of the Galaxy in his absence, you are now First Officer. Can you report to the Bridge immediately?” Casey said, Ronni could hear a bit of sarcasm in his voice.

The Bridge ear factory took notice of that and everyone seemed to perk up even more to try and figure out what was going on. Things from the outside looked quite strange.

First the Galaxy loses three of her senior officers in the Battle Of The Line. Soon after the Battle, Sunder resigns his commission, then Chris leaves for a fishing trip? Karyn takes a medical leave of absence. And now the Captain was headed back to Earth to visit Starfleet Command. Which didn’ t leave a lot of senior experience on the Starship Galaxy.

Casey was not concerned however. The remaining crew were all trained Starfleet personnel, he knew their capabilities and their strengths and weaknesses and knew there would be no problems. He had confidence in them.

“Mr. Brandis, you have the conn. When ‘Commander Morris arrives please send her in to the Ready Room. Notify me of anything important that takes place on the surface,” Casey smiled at Lucas and walked into the Ready Room. He had some contacts to call and some favors to call in.

The doors of the Ready Room quickly closed behind Deiran and he stood and looked at the office. He would miss Lee. This was his office. ‘What a pathetic time for Temporal authorities to call Lee away,’ he thought. Casey then walked over behind the desk and took a seat. He leaned back in the chair and started to strategize a way to get past this secrecy code on Thomas’ transfer order.

As Deiran was thinking, his eyes closed, his mind in the abstract world of ideas, a thought entered his mind that may help them break this dead end and find who sent those orders.

Casey leaned up in the chair, quickly activated the console and accessed his own personal database.

“Computer show all records containing Starfleet Intelligence declassified documents,” he said to the computer, Casey thought he was onto something.

[“Please specify the years in question of requested documents,”] the computer asked.

“2370 to 2375, including the latest declassified documents available on Starfleet Intelligence. Only the documents for Command personnel only,” he requested. Casey knew the public files would have nothing of value.

‘What is going on in the Federation? What is it with these loose cannons trying to control things and thinking they have some higher moral right to do these type of things?’ Casey thought as he waited for the computer to search for the requested files.

[“Found documents…displaying…”]

It was definitely time to give the computer a new voice. Miran’s would be quite soothing Casey thought.

As Casey started daydreaming about his wife, the documents appeared on the console in front of him. Sixteen documents that dated to around 2371 and had nothing to do with this incident.

“Computer, how many Starfleet Intelligence documents were released to command personnel between 2360-2369?” Casey asked.

[“1,234 documents containing Starfleet Intelligence information were…”] the computer started rambling away, Casey tuned it out once he got the information he wanted.

“This isn’t right. Why hasn’t someone seen this? Don’t Captain’s use this information anymore?” Casey thought about it. “Computer, how many documents have not been able to be released because of the Dominion War?” he asked.

[“381 documents are being withheld in the interest of Federation security concerning the war with the Dominion.”]

“Well if you take those out, that still leaves over 450 documents that should be available. Has anyone even bothered to see what’s going on?” Casey asked out loud, clearly disgusted that this was a dead end.

[“Commander, incoming transmission from Starfleet Command. It’s on a secure channel and requesting you take it personally, I’m unable to break the code sir.”] Lt.(JG) Marc replied over the comm. Mac’s shift was over, Hermedhie had been hurt, T’Kal was dead so Marc was the next in line for Tactical.

“Thank you Mike, patch it through to me here please,” Casey responded.

The transmission appeared on the desk console. Deiran could see a security seal on the screen and then his father’s face.

“Hi Deiran, this transmission is a high security risk. I don’t know what your Ops officer is up to, but you would be best served to stay out of it. I traced that transfer and it’s from high levels of SI. The thread led nowhere substantial. No name, no face. But I can say its SI. Stay out of this son. It’s more than you want to deal with at the moment. Let it go,” Admiral Casey looked as if he was concerned about someone watching over his shoulder. He was jumpy, his eyes looked scared, but his voice was commanding. Deiran had never seen his father like this. He was usually forceful, obnoxious, invincible and most definitely indestructible and fearless.

“Who the hell is this? What have you done with my father?” Casey replied sarcastically. Clearly the shocked expression on Deiran’s face told his father he saw the difference.

“Deiran, let it go. Listen to me, get down off your high horse and let this go. It’s extremely dangerous and career threatening if you cross those behind this. Think of your career!” the elder Casey was emphatic with his words, his facial expressions and his voice. For all intensive purposes this was dangerous. He’d never ever seen his father like this. He could actually see fear on his face and his words. It gave Deiran goosebumps to see this. It freaked him out completely.

“Dad, the life of my Chief Ops is in the balance here. Let’s bury these people and clean up SI. It’s about time we do anyway. We have the contacts and the allies,” Casey said brazenly.

“Trust me son, now is not the time. I have to go. Listen to me and drop this, let it pass over you like a breeze, son. It’s got 'plague’ all over it. Strat/Tac out.”

And with that, Tom Casey was gone. Deiran had never seen his father so nervous, so safe. He always had been told by him, “You never get promoted by being safe. Take risks and come out on top.” What he just saw from his father was not the man he had known. Tom Casey would see something unjust and smash it like a bug on a window.

This situation wasn’t looking good. In fact, things were looking pretty bad and deteriorating from there. If these people could scare his own father then Chris wasn’t kidding when he said these guys were bad news, using a term from the mid 20th century. Chris didn’t say that, that’s just how Casey interpreted Chris.

Casey was interrupted from his thoughts by the door chime.

“Come!” Casey said, the frustration was audible in his voice.

Ronni strutted into the office her white teeth contrasting against her blue face. The last thing Casey felt like doing was smiling.

“Hi Ronni, have a seat,” Casey said as he switched off the console.

“So the Galaxy is being run by you?” Ronni smiled, she loved kidding with him. He was like a brother to her.

“Yes, and things are getting stressful around here. I’m going to need you to take over my duties. I have some things I need to do for the Captain while he’s away. We will continue to lend a hand to the Cardassians. Our orders as of now haven’t changed. The Captain was called away to Earth to meet with Temporal Authorities about our last mission. Try and keep that quiet. Make sure everyone keeps their minds on the job at hand. You’ve been in the labs?” Casey asked.

“Yes, I’m working on an experiment that will…” Ronni started going on about her new pet idea.

“Sounds interesting, send me a copy of your notes. But, unfortunately, you’ ll have to postpone that. You’ll be coordinating the relief effort on the surface. You get the fun job of doing what I was going to do,” Casey laughed. “But be careful Ronni when you do go down to the planet. Conditions are horrendous. Delphinians won’t be at all comfy down there.”

Ronni stayed silent at that.

“Anyway, I’m exhausted. I’ve fought a battle, ended a war and have too many walls to climb at the moment. I need some rest. I’ve pulled an 18 hour shift and Miran is ticked off at me for not letting her know about the fighters mission. I need to go make up with her. Nothing makes me relax more than a nice snuggle with Miran. You take over, I don’t remember who has Gamma watch, but if you need to you can call them to the Bridge early. You may need some rest as well. Enjoy Blue,” Casey said in his lovingly sarcastic way when he spoke to Ronni.

“You know it mud puddle!” Ronni shot back with equal glee. They just loved playing like that. Bantering back and forth like a game of ping pong.

Casey stood up from the desk and walked out of the Ready Room. Lucas stood up to give the Command chair over to him. Casey shook his head and said, “Nope, Ronni’s on watch now,” and walked up the right archway and disappeared into the lift. It was clear Casey was tired.

It also showed that he had trust in the crew. An hour and a half after the Captain left for Earth, Deiran was off to bed. He’d pulled two shifts and an extra two hours. His day was done.

All he wanted to do was go home, put Lara to bed and maybe put Miran there too if she were talking to him. Even when he was exhausted he loved her dearly. She was his world and everything he needed and wanted in a woman. All he could think about was snuggling with Miran and her falling asleep in his arms. Thoughts of SI was rumbling around in his mind as well.

"hello....mom"

Lt(jg) Tim O'Connell

Kale left sickbay, Tim stewed for a minute then realized one person he could talk to, and she was worried. He moved a console over to his bed from the swing stand and placed the call.

==Chicago Illinois Earth==

Eileen O'Connell was cleaning up while her husband was off at work. On the mantel were some pictures, of her family, Her wedding picture, a picture of her son Tim when he graduated from both the Police academy and Starfleet academy. Also on ther was a picture of his wedding, She saw how happy they looked, while not pleased that she wasn't invited she had already talked to Eshar and they had made what little peace there was to make. Then the news of the embassy bombing hit home, poor Tim must be taking it hard, so like his father. She wanted to call and make sure she was ok, but then the Galaxy got involved in combat, Her husband's brother David told her that much, she worried, she was a mother after all. Just then her companel beeped. Incoming message from the USS Galaxy. Her heart got cold, ~no~ She walked over and accessed the transmission,

"hello.....mom?"

"Tim? are you ok?"

Tim smiled, "Yes mom I'm fine, I'm calling from sickbay. I got hurt on Cardassia prime, but I'm ok now."

Eileen looked concerned, the time as a nurse came in to play, "what did they have to do?"

Tim shifted, "some surgury is all, The memories are still foggy, I got some news though, Remember Neil Bolitho?"

Eileen nodded, "yea I remember him, your roomate right, nice young man you set him up with your sister Emily right?"

Tim smiled, "yes mom, well he's getting married and going to be a father."

Her brows furrowed, "Who is he marrying ?"

Tim Smiled, "Elaine O'Hare, she's a SO on the Galaxy. They hit it off, I kinda had to knock him upside the head with it."

Eileen smiled, "I bet, so how are you feeling?" she asked with a mother's concern.

Tim rolled his eyes, "I'm fine mom."

She looked through him, "no you're not, you are trying to hide it It's ok to be sad, and cry You have to."

Tim looked down, he never could lie to her, or hide anything, he'd swear she was telepathic, or at least empathic, "It's hard ma, it happened so fast." He looked down. "she was pregnant."

Eileen was lousy at hiding her emotions, she did ok as a Nurse but some times it leaked out, now was one of those times, her eyes teared up, "I'm sorry. And with Neil and Elaine it hurts."

"yea"

She smiled, "well talk to someone, a counselor or something," She held up her hand when Tim began a typical O'Connell male rant against counselors, "No arguments I can still come to that ship and kick your butt If I have to. Now get some rest. I love you, I'll tell your father you called."

Tim looked around, "where is dad?"

She smiled, "he's doing second watch for a friend. He'll be home in 2 hours, I'll let him know you're ok."

Tim smiled, "thanks mom, I'll see you when I get some leave saved up."

"bye dear."

"bye mom."

“Tests and Trails”
by LtCmdr. Hunter McKenzie
Chief Tactical Officer, USS Galaxy

“Dammit!” Cursed Mac as he scanned his duty roster. His training plans were almost about to be put on hold. Hermedhie was injured...Beq was on leave...Tam Li had been injured and sent back to Starbase 357...Hell half of his section was either walking wounded or not available. He had already ran Tamar and Kamin through ...Marc was scheduled next and that was about it. Mac rubbed his eyes and leaned back...his forefinger bouncing off his lips as he thought. As he punched in the confirmation for Marc’s training...he moved on to the current Intell reports about the restoration process on Cardassia.

It appeared that the CLA was stepping up their terrorists attack s and they weren’t confined to just federation personnel. It appeared the Romulans had lost two mustering bases as well as a shuttle.

According to the report...the CLA was last active during Gul Dukat’s coup. They had been instrumental in rallying the populace under the “Cardassian’s Only” platform. As Mac scanned the remainder of the report...he began to see the increasing violence that they were using. Before the dominion war, The CLA was very low tech. Personal weapons, taken form patrols, field expedient explosives...maybe something larger in the extreme instance. But now it seemed like they were a lot better armed and better organized. Mac jotted of a quick message to the Captain and started to head to the Holodeck for Marc’s evaluation.

“Captain Price is currently not in command of the Galaxy” came the sometimes-annoying voice of Starfleet computers

“Huh? Computer, Who is in command?”

“Commander Casey is currently in command of the Galaxy”

“Great” muttered Mac, “Computer, reroute message to Casey and set up an appointment with him ASAP.”

“Acknowledged.”

Mac shook his head and headed to meet Marc.

*****Holodeck 4*****

Mac adjusted the panel as the holodeck doors slid open. Lt(jg) Marc entered and stood smartly looking at him.

“Relax, Mike.” Added Mac as he walked to the center of the holodeck.

“What you are about to run is a simulation designed to test you r skills and abilities. You will have command of a galaxy class cruiser. You are on routine patrol in the Alpha quadrant and are currently under orders to assist and protect wall federation assets in the area.” Mac paused before continuing. “Although there will be interactive characters filling the individual positions...they will only rely on your commands. The scenario will be scored and the results will be posted in your permanent training record. Computer run program.”

Mac watched as the bridge of a Galaxy cruiser formed around him and Marc. The various positions were all filled with fresh faced young officers and all seemed eager to please. The only position empty was the single chair in the center of the vast bridge. The captain’s chair.

“Any Questions?” Asked Mac.

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

"A Friendly Visit"
by Lt. JG O'Connell and Lt. T'Zaq
and an unauthorized cameo by Ensign Danal

T'Zaq wandered down the corridor toward sickbay. It wasn't a place she visited often, being an engineer and having few connections to the medical department, but there was a reason this time. An old acquaintance,Tim,who had arrived on the Galaxy at nearly the same time as she had, had been one of the casualties down on the planet, and she figured he could use a little cheering up.

The doors to sickbay slid open abruptly, causing T'Zaq to nearly collide with a security officer just coming out. The two both stopped abruptly and stared at each other for a second.

"Oops, excuse me." T'Zaq smiled and squeezed past, making her way over to Tim's bio bed.

"Hello." he said flatly.

"Hi," T'Zaq returned. "I heard you had a bit of an accident, and figured it would be pretty boring just laying here in sickbay, so I thought you might like these." She held out a small package to him.

Tim unwrapped it and stared at it for a moment. "Cards? Hmmm, I've never seen any like these." He flipped through the brightly colored, cartoonish cards.

"It's called Sti Lhai, a game they play on Dos-jel Prime." she replied. "It's really quite silly, but interesting. A fascinating glimpse into the culture there."

Tim lifted an eyebrow. "Well, thanks. Like to show me how to play it?"

T'Zaq smiled and sat down on the adjoining bed, pulling an empty med-cart between the two. "All right. First, each player gets four cards..."

Tim smiled as the cards were dealt, "Thanks for stopping by, I needed a friendly face, I've had a really shitty week." He went back to listening to the game description. He looked at T'Zaq and remembered the time he saw her last, with Shtik when Neil met Elaine for the first time. "It's been a while since I've seen you. How have you been?"

Tim drew a card, "I got something... I think.... so... I guess by now you heard about Neil and Elaine O'Hare... I guess they owe you and Lt Shitik a big thank you for setting them up, in a way." He grinned.

T'Zaq tilted her head to the side a bit, and put down the Knight of Agriculture. "Ah ha! Now we can start a new pile." She turned over another card next to the others. "Yeah... I heard about the now-notorious couple," she chuckled. "Sometime when you're feeling better, I'll have to tell ya about the time I got stuck in a turbolift with Bolitho." She smiled and shook her head, just thinking about it. "Nice to know he's found someone to love... although I doubt either Shtik or I can take much credit for it. Even if I hadn't showed up, I *doubt* Shtik and Ms. O'Hare would be living happily ever after."

Tim chuckled, "I'd love to see that. Firey Irish temper meets cool logic." He looked at his cards, "besides I had to knock him upside the head with the whole thing. He finally got the message." Tim smiled at that memory, which brought back something about his wedding. "Well, I say about time for him." He looked at her again, "I got to ask, you aren't seeing him... Shtik.. are you? I heard a rumor and I know how inaccurate those can be." Tim finished, remembering his own trip through the mill.

T'Zaq shook her head. "I slept with him once, but I do not do so regularly," she said, perfectly deadpan.

Tim raised an eyebrow, "An interesting way to put it." He grinned, "Once was enough I take it." He grinned and then yawned, "Next game, loser buys dinner. deal?"

T'Zaq nodded readily, realizing she was rather glad to be past the subject of the nature of her relationship to Shtik. "All right, you're on!"

"Healing of the Body, and Healing of the Mind"
by Lieutenant jay-gee's Elaiithin Jii and Tim O'Connell

Knock Knock.

Lieutenant JG Tim O'Connell looked up at his reading from the sound. He was getting a bit used to it.

Lieutenant JG Elaiithin Jii popped his head through the door. "Mind if I come in?"

Tim smiled, "not at all, If I'd known I was this popular Id've gotten hit by a building a long time ago."

"I bet you had no idea you were so loved." The Bajoran responded with a wry grin. As he walked in, Tim took stock of his appearance. His uniform was torn in several places, with the sleve of his right arm torn, and being used as an improvised sling.

Tim chuckled, "And all it took was a building to find that out. Besides Eliane just told me about her and Neil." Tim looked at the Bajoran, "any guesses?"

Elaithin regarded his friend with a quizzical look. He leaned against the wall, favoring his injured side. Jii accidentally scraped it against the bulkhead, and grimaced.

"What about Neil and Elaine?" he asked.

Tim smiled, "she told me he popped the question. She said yes."

Elaithin couldn't have hidden his surpise if he tried. "I'll be damned. Neil finally got brave enough, eh?"

"Those two are going to be...interesting. "he added

Tim raised an eyebrow, "that's one way of putting it. all I know is if I hear breaking furniture I'm outta there."

Tim sighed, "well I'm gonna be brushing off my dress uniform for another wedding."

"So how are you?" Elaiithin asked, fiditing as his injured arm hit brushed the bulkhead again.

Tim said, "physically I'm fine, just called my mom, she was a bit worried, Dave told her about the push, plus she heard about the bombing." Tim looked at Jii, "what happened to you?"

"I was down on the planet - with Doctor Spier and Ensign Saunders. We got caught in a CLA attack. They blew up the clinic we'd just spent two days establishing. Saunders and Speir were both injured, I was barely able to request a beam out. The Docs are patching them up now, I'm just waiting my turn." Elaiithin explained. "And I wasn't asking how you were physically, Tim. Don't change the subject."

Tim looked at his friend, "I'm getting better. It still hurts, especially with all the babies being born.... she had some of that defective birth control too."

"I'm sorry, Tim. Maybe you should look at it this way - Death is a natural part of life. We're not permanent. Along the way, we meet people - and we all die eventually. That's why you've got to do as much good as possible while you're in this universe."

Tim smiled, "maybe you should be a counselor. I'm trying. It's hard though. Hell when this is overwe'll have a wake for everyone we lost." Tim smiled, "A large Irish wake, to celebrate the way they lived."

"Prophets know there's a lot of people to have one for. You know Tim, I'd be the first security to counseling transfer." he replied with a grin.

Tim laughed, "a first for everything." He grinned, "some of these wakes last 4 days or longer."

"Have you ever heard of the Bajoran funeral chants?"Elaiithin asked. "They take seven days.Or is it seven hours? I never paid attention. The one part of the faith I don't agree with. I don't think death is something to be mourned."

Tim smiled, "Eshar loved that about the Bolians, death is not mourned, the life is celebrated. It's the same way with the Irish."

"The Klingons are like that too. They throw parties for thier honored dead, to speed thier spirits on to Sto Vo Kor.

Tim winced a bit rememberign how he snapped at Neil, "yea one other tradition is we have to leave a bottle for the dead, to help them cross over."

"Humans and thier alcohol. I've never understood your species fascination with it." the Bajoran sighed. "I've kept you long enough, my friend. I think I hear a doctor calling."

Tim laughed, "it's a tradition, go get better. Thanks for stopping by."

"No problem, Tim. Take care." Jii reponded as he walked out the door.

"Meandering Thoughts (Reef)"
by Gordall 'Unca' Kalln and Ursa 'Wino' Sunder

***USS Galaxy, Ten-Forward***

Kalln strolled into Ten Forward, still unable to find Anna. In the corner he noticed Commander Sunder, his erstwhile Force Rod student, sitting and brooding - not that the Thundercloud ever made any other facial expressions.

He was staring into space - looking at the stars through the observation window at the far end of the lounge. It was dark and secluded; a fitting plance to brood and think.

Kalln approached him.

"Hey, Commander, have you seen Anna around?"

Sunder looked up at him with eyes that looked like they had been dragged through purgatory.

Uh-oh, thought Kalln, then remembered who had died.

"You should ask Matthew Albrecht. He should be able to keep track of personnel better than I can," Sunder answered softly, "Last time I checked he was arranging security accompaniment for the planetside relief parties."

"Are you alright Commander?" Kalln asked, unsure where to proceed. Despite his years of experience in Starfleet, the sheer unpredictability of the Terran species was still something that continued to unsettle him. He'd never seen Sunder like this. It was as if all the fight had suddenly washed out of him.

"Call me Sunder - just Sunder, Mr Kalln. I resigned my commission a few hours ago. Now I'm just your average Federation citizen waiting for transport out of a war zone."

Sunder turned back towards the observation window, his thoughts presumably wandering back to the subject they were fixed on before Kalln walked in. Now this Kalln could deal with. Depression was anything but alien to him. The familiar always made you comfortable.

"Congratulations, citizen," he said grimly and sitting opposite the ex-Commander, "I take it you have your prospects all lined up."

"What do you mean?" asked Sunder.

"Well, job, home, long-term objectives. I doubt the Orions will take you back now. You could get a job working as a bouncer somewhere I suppose."

"What do you mean?" Sunder repeated.

"Weeeell, you know, it's a rough old universe out there. War's just finished, things to rebuild, no job security..."

"Still haven't made your point yet, Mr Kalln."

"Tch... impatience. Must be the Orion coming out in you..." Kalln mused, "My point is: seems rather sudden to up and quit just when a lot of people still need your help."

"Just because it was a quick decision, doesn't mean it's a wrong one," Sunder said defensively - rather too defensively.

"Quite so - no arguing with you there."

"And Albrecht has things well in hand. He's a good officer and he's ready for a promotion. It's not the first time he's picked up the slack."

"Of course," Kalln conceded.

"I left him with a clean team and a brief explanation the same time I sent a note to the captain. He'll be fine," he coughed slightly, "When you can't do your job any more, you leave it in as much dignity as you can muster and then exit quietly to let someone more capable handle it. After all, I didn't get any argument from the Captain when I resigned. That says volumes for me."

Kalln sat and smiled at Sunder in response.

"Why aren't you saying anything?" Sunder asked with the first change of expression on his face since Kalln walked in, " You're not one for lack of words to say."

"You're anything but a praise-seeker," Kalln replied with a dismissive wave of two of his arms, "But I don't think there's anything left to say - you've listed a good number of reasons in explanation for your actions and I think you're satisfied with everything to date. You are satisfied, aren't you? "

Sunder looked at him in surprise, "Of course I am. I have to be. There's no other course of action for me to take."

Kalln made a strange hissing sound, "Typical Orion thinking. Tell me: does the momument to Varga Kaylin still stand in the Dun'edas region? That's where you were raised, hmm?"

"Yes," Sunder answered. Not many folk were familiar with the Orion clanworlds, but he forgot how old Kalln was, "The Steel Cat. Why?"

"Because every time your people achieve something, win a battle, build a hall, plant a field - it's an excuse to put up a statue. Yours is the mostsingle-minded race I've ever met in my life. You're as bad as those bloody Klingons, you know. You want to be able to predict every action a Klingon will ever take in his life, you just have to sit and watch him for ten minutes. For all their much-vaunted codes of honour, they're still a bunch of mindless hoodlums. Orions behave with a set pattern of responses that you can foresee like an old entertainment vid."

"And why does putting up a statue compare here?" Sunder asked with a tinge of sarcasm in his voice.

"Because you're building a monument to your own sense of defeat, child. Look, Orions are a predictable lot, but you're a Terran. You were raised among them, but you have that spark of, what, innovation, that allows you to surprise people. That's why you're a good security officer: you have the Orion systematic perception of everything around you that borders on the mechanical, but that Terran, atavistic, er, native ingenuity allows you to add an element of surprise that gives you a decided advantage in whatever situation you find yourself in. You can change and learn. You ever see an Orion doing that?"

Sunder shifted in his seat uncomfortably. He was never any good at taking praise or criticism.

"So what did I learn from... Cat's death? What did I gain? Where's the point in continuing when I can't even protect those closest to me from something as simple as a damn turbo-lift accident!!?" Sunder said, his voice raising into a shout.

Those within earshot of the two started to look uncomfortable. Kalln ignored them as best as he could while Sunder looked like he didn't give a damn what everyone was thinking.

"Tell me that Kalln. Tell me, if you can." he said a bit more quietly this time.

Kalln shook his head slightly.

"Let me see... Where's the point in continuing when, completely by chance you fall over in the morning and stub your toe? My goodness! You could have killed yourself! Far too dangerous to go on bothering. What's the point in continuing when millions of people have just been killed because a war started because the damned Cardassians are a selfish bunch of bastards? What's the point in continuing when, without me being able to prevent it, my third Chupacra crystal dessicated yesterday? I mean if any of my experiments could fail like that, there's very little point in starting any of them. I think I'll give up science and come to work in Security. And tell me, what is the point of going on when an event occurs which you are powerless to prevent and nothing to do with? You should have quit years ago!"

He paused. Sunder looked stunned.

"There is no point!" Kalln hissed, "Why do you think so many Gnalish Elt kill themselves, hmm? Madness? Accidents? No, they realise how pointless and futile the world is when things are just going to go and happen without so much as a by-your-leave. The universe just doesn't have any respect for the wishes of the common sentient. I'm just glad you've finally come to that realisation yourself and you're prepared to throw all that's worth having in for the sake of it. There's nothing like dedication."

"You can pontificate all you want Kalln, " Sunder started, "But that doesn't change the fact that Cat is dead."

"It won't," Kalln answered flatly, "And while those she loved will miss the light she brought into their lives, I don't think she'd want them to halt their own in response. Mourn, yes - fall into a state of mindless torpor and harano? No, she'd want them to live and live well. You're not an Elt, so don't behave like one."

Kalln's tone changed, "Look Sunder, you have a choice. You can either turn your back on everything you've accomplished in the last few years, or you can re-dedicate yourself to higher ideals, greater responsibility. Live your life boy, don't waste it on sorrow and regret. Leave that to us, it's our speciality. There's little time in a Terran's life-span as it is."

Ursa's massive form relaxed in resignation, "I suppose I've been afraid. Afraid of causing more harm to someone I care about."

"There's no harm in being afraid. Fear keeps you alert. But don't let it weigh you down," he stood up, "Speaking of which, I ought to keep looking for Anna. You never know what she's up to. Think about what I said though."

Kalln smiled, a rather scary sight, "But keep in mind that they need some help down on the planet. Apparently some of the Cardassian people are under the impression that their liberators are also coming as their new conquerors. I think the relief teams are going to need the help of a seasoned Security Officer. Your choice."

Kalln turned and walked away from the Terran. He wondered if he'd said the right things. The human mind was so resilient yet so fragile at the most inopportune times. It's a wonder they even managed to walk upright, not to mention mastering their opposable thumbs, he thought, shaking his head in amazement.

***

It felt wrong, but Sunder stood up. Walking over to the bar's comm panel, he stood and looked at it for a while. After a few minutes of thought, he sent a message to Lt. Commander Albrecht.

"Matthew, I'll need a status report on the away teams. Sorry for the lack of contact but I can explain that later. Oh, and there's a brief for you in your message file. Do me a favour and dismiss it."

"And get someone to clear the crap out of my office," he added as an afterthought.

Tim Fletcher for:
LJG Gordall Kalln, Science Officer, USS Galaxy

"Catching an Engineer!"
by Lieutenant (jg) Elaine O'Hare(Off duty)
Security

And

Ensign Michael McDowell(Fainter)
Engineer

O'Hare was walking through the wreckage of deck 18. She needed to collect her thoughts and she walked to do that. Engineers and other personnel were everywhere and it amazed the security officer how many people were actually on board a ship of this size. Dealing with her own little world, she tended to shut out the big picture of the Galaxy. The realization had struck her that it resembled a flying city. A city, that had undergone major reconstruction in the past few days.

Looking up from the floor, Elaine smiled as she recognized the Engineer that she had spoken with in the turbo lift a few days ago. He didn't look good at all, Michael's uniform was cinged in places and he had an overall look of general tiredness that was complimented by black circles under his eyes and frazzeled hair. O'Hare was just about ready to tap him on the shoulder when he leaned backward. Supporting his back, she let him gently ower to the floor. Although she knew he was out, Elaine spoke to him anyway. "Better watch it Ensign, Casey is liking heading down here as we speak."

Looking up at the engineer, she smiled. "I got it from here."

"Great!" The other Ensign sighed., walking away heading for more important duties.

Tapping her com badge, she stated. "O'Hare to sickbay, two to beam in from this location."

The security officer and the dishelved engineer disappeared into a blue, sprinkly haze.

Watching the doctor work on Michael, she let her thoughts wonder once more to the dear friend she had lost. She missed her terribly, and sick bay was not the same with out the officer's calming presence. Getting the nod from the doctor, O'Hare approached the biobed and pulled up a chair, waiting for the engineering officer to come to.

Michael had no idea where he was. Except for some blurry images of people standing around him he could see nothing. The voices he heart were faint as if they were coming from light-years away. Some time later his eye-sight got a litter better. Michael carefully looked around him. He recognized area as being Sickbay. Apart from that he noticed that none of the doctors knew he waked up.

"Wha....(cough)...What happened doc?" Michael said when he saw a doctor passing by. But the doctor walked on.

"Hey Ensign. Your in sick bay, over did yourself." The Lt. leaned over so he could see her and Elaine smiled. "Don't worry, you'll be assigned someone to watch over you until, either you give birth, or someone higher up deams you well again."

Michael look at the woman standing besides him. It took a moment before he recognized her.

"Lt. O'Hare... how did I come here?" Michael inquired, "The last thing I remember is being on Deck Eighteen."

"You, my dear Ensign, fainted." Elaine stated plainly. "How are you feeling now?"

"I'm tired. Everything hurts...my head, arms, legs,...you name it. To be blunt: I feel like shit."

O'Hare smiled wryly as she looked at the young Engineer. "To tell you the truth, you look like........"

Suddenly Michael interrupted Elaine in the midst of her reply. If it was true what Elaine had said, then he would become the highlight in every discussion in Ten-Forward. And he didn't relish the idea.

"I fainted? And I thought only women did that." Michael said, "Now I'll be the laughing-stock of whole Engineering and probably the whole ship!"

Leaning closer to Michael, O'Hare stated humourously. "Hon, I wouldn't orry about being the laughing-stock of the whole ship or Engineering for that matter. If you do, I'll do something to correct that and focus the attention back on myself again. I'm kind of getting used to getting stared at, especially after threatening to blow the brig out the side of the ship."

Michael grinned, doing his best not to show Elaine that being so close to her made him feel somewhat uncomfortable.

"You threatened to blow up the brig? A pretty bold move I'd say." Michael said while staring at Elaine. The minute Michael discovered he was staring he averted his eyes. "So tell me how did you come to such a drastic move?"

O'Hare grinned. "Let's just say it was a negotiation tactic. I was attempting to repair the force field generators by re-routing the power supply to keep the briggers in thier cells after the ship recieved a hit. An ensign told me to look up and I was faced with about 10 or so 'bad boys' who were attempting to escape. Pulling a few 'extra' conduits from the pannel, I held them close and threatened to blow the brig if they didn't move back to their cells." Elaine snickered and rolled her eyes. "I still can't believe I did that. It was fun in a demented sort of way."

"You really did that? Man, you're something! I better not mess with you." Michael commented, still laughing about O'Hare's stint. "Seems that the transfer to Security was a good decision."

After a few good laughs the two finally calmed down. Michael looked at the Lt. and thought about some of the rumours that were circling the ship. Especially those about Elaine's character. Some people said that she was a difficult person to come along with.

"Sir, may I ask you a personal question?"

"Please. I know you fainted and are not feeling well, but call me Elaine." O'Hare grinned.

"Okay, Elaine it is." Michael said with a smile," About that question... word goes that you are a hot headed person, someone who's easily provoked, and that it's not easy to be friends with you. Is that true? I personally think it's not."

O'Hare's lips twisted into a somewhat sheepish grin. "I wouldn't say I'm hard to get along with. I just have a very definitive personality. I suppose it comes from being raised on Qo'Nos since I was eight. I tend to be extremely direct with people and some take that to be that I'm easily provoked. Other than being direct, I have a bad habit of pushing people away with my...well...sarcasm and defensiveness Michael. Once I do make friends, they have my loyal support. You'll find out, I'm not timid, or shy about speaking my feelings or acting on them. Being that out spoken, I have tended to make a few smirkish enemies, if you will. I guess if I had one word that described Elaine O'Hare, it would be..... well....what do you think that word would be Michael?" The Lt. raised her eyebrows, waiting for a response. Inwardly wanting to hear what he thought of her as a person. Not that she would give a rip, but, somewhere, she had a longing of being accepted deep down in her heart.

Before Michael answered a few moments past. There was something in Elaine her eyes that he couldn't quite place. But somehow he knew that his answer was important to her.

"Elaine....i don't know you that well...but if I have to describe you with one word it would be "Fighter"...a fighter who's very straightforward. Your personality is exactly that what one can expect of a good security officer... at least that's my opinion."

O'Hare's face brighten. "Hey, ya know, maybe I should start rescueing engineers more often....at least, be there when they faint!" She viewed the smirky expression on Michael's face and giggled. "Oookkkaaayyy, maybe not!" Standing up from her seat, she offered a genuine smile to the bed ridden fixer of systems. "Well, Michael. I have to go....gotta wedding to plan. See you around, K?"

"Wow....wait a minute!" Michael said, stunned by what he just heard, "What wedding? Did I miss something important?"

Turning around, O'Hare smiled and sat back down. "Mine. I'm marrying a fellow security officer. Neil Bolitho." Elaine stated as a matter of fact.

To Michael this was more then a welcome surprise. After all the pain and suffering that was caused by the war everyone looked for brighter days. A wedding would certainly be a good start.

"Hey that's great! Congratulations! When is the big day?"

"Thanks. I'll warn you, it's going to get roudy. Two former Klingon Ambassadors children are getting married. And they both work in security. I shuttle just thinking about it sometimes." Elaine's laughter filled the sick bay. "I'd love to stay and chat, but I do have a lot to do. Michael, feel better, k?"

Michael grinned. "Should be an interesting wedding and don't you worry...I'll be up in no time."

Eaine looked at him and smiled. "That's reassuring. At least I know if my replicator puffs out on me, you'll be there to fix it."

"Link to a better emotion"
By: Lt. Elaine O'Hare, Security
Ensign Kale Danal, Secuity
USS Galaxy

Kale walked down the corridor, he had just had a fight with Elaine and he was on edge. He couldn't believe this crap that was coming up, what was she thinking?

Kale was a little disappointed with Elaine, he expected more from her. Kale shook the thoughts from his mind, that was something that was going to have to take a back seat.

Kale was more concerned about Tim and his emotions, well the lack of not dealing with his feelings about the bombing. Kale was going to help him deal with this, even though he wasn't a counselor he was a friend with Tim and that was the underlying current.

Walking down the corridor his anger was swelling inside his body, using all his control he pushed it down and sealed it behind his mentle barrier.

Walking into is quarters he sat down at the desk, he took some deep breaths to calm his thoughts. Feeling terrible for barking at Kale, Elaine headed to his quarters and rang the chime.

Kale looked up, "Come" he said already knowing who it was.

Elaine solomly walked through Kale's door. Her gaze didn't leave his carpet as she muttered. "Hi."

Kale could sense something different from her, she wasn't has angry or hurt. In a low voice "Hey" he said looking down at his hands. Kale hated fighting with her, she was the one he was closest too of all the crew.

"Whatcha doing?" O'Hare stated. It was strange, but Elaine switched emotions lately like a Ferengi Ansmorth changed the color of it's spots.

Kale looked up, "I'm sitting here wondering why me and my best firend is fighting, what about you?" he asked.

"Yeah, same here." The Lt. looked up at the ensign and offered a weak smile. Sighing loudly, she walked over and ploped herself next to her best buddy. Looking Kale straight in the eyes, she continued. "Kale, I'm sorry. I have no idea...I mean...I....I..just lost my best girl freind. Tim knew that and he didn't even tell me! Neither did Neil for that matter!! Not even a message...nothing." O'Hare slumped her shoulders, rising from her seat, she padded over and grabbed a tissue.

Kale patted Elaine's hand, "Don't be sorry, its understandable. I didn't know you and Eshar was close, I found out a few days ago but... with there isn't a but that would explaine it." Kale stopped and then conintued. "Another innocents lost" he said is a soft voice and his eyes were hollow and void of emotions.

Turning around, Elaine gingerly wiped the tears from her eyes. "It's not fair, this whole situation. I feel like I'm going to explode, cry, laugh, or get pissed off any minute. I wish you knew what it was like. Emotions change from second to second with me. Half the time, I go around apologizing for actions that would totally be out of character for me. You know what I did to Neil the other day? ....No, you don't. But, you likely do already. Anyway....I'm still sorry Kale. I feel like I'm alienating people right and left."

Kale stood and walked over to her, placing his hand under her ears he looked into her eyes. ~Do you know that the other day I held a little girl in my arms and watched as the life drained from her body, with everything happening I feel like sometimes that I'm going to loose myself within everyone elses thoughts, feelings and emotions~ Kale said to her telepathicly.

Elaine said nothing but wrapped Kale in an embrace. "I'm sorry."

"You know 'sorry' is such an easy word to say but, but really never changes anything. does it?" he asked feeling her arms around him. Kale felt secure and safe, he aslo felt that he didn't have to hide anything from her.

"I know that. But you know that I'm serious about saying it Kale." Breaking the embrace, she grabbed his hand and led him over to the couch.

They sat down on the couch, Kale leaned forward and placed his head in his hands. "I've got so many feelings in here I feel like I'm loose myself, its taking more and more strength to lock it away and seal it behind my barrier" he said.

"You should seal them away Kale. You need to let them out. Cry, stomp your feel, slash open a few Jem'Hadar in the holodeck....sorry about that....I'm the one that needs to do the slashing. Anyway, what can I do to help you through this?" Elaine asked quietly

Kale gave a weak smile, "If I knew the answer I would tell you, I don't know what I'm doing half the time. I thinking of going into the cantra, its a vulcan state of meditation that lets you confort and deal with your thoughts in the field of your mind." Kale said but didn't tell her the danger that he would be in when he did it.

"NO WAY. Your not doing that. I know what goes on and your not doing it. I won't let you." Elaine stated firmly.

"The only danger is that I could loose my way back out, can you think of another way to do this?" he asked looking over at her. She could see the void he held in his brown eyes, those eyes once shined but now had turned dull.

"Yeah I do. Keep talking to me."

"Alright, I'll do that but you'll see things about me that no one has ever saw" Kale said.

Elaine thought about what she was going to do. "What do you mean see Kale?"

"Everything you have seen about me is what I've allowed you to see, Locked behind my mentle barrier is a place no one has been, seen or delt with" Kale said standing and moving over to the windows, his eyes fell down apon Cardassia Prime.

"Well, why do you feel you have to show me, why can't you just tell me about it?"

Kale shook his head, she really didn't understand. "When I talk about it, more and more of that barrier will fall and allowe those thoughts and feelings to surface. Its not something you'll see in the physical sense, more words and thoughts that I project subconously." Kale said.

"So, you want to link? You'll have to explain it to me Kale. Can a Betazoid link fully with a non-telepath?"

Kale turned to her, "Well given that you don't have telepathic and I'm full betaziod I could link with you, it won't be a true link but it will be strong enough for you and me to speak in the mind" Kale said.

Elaine nodded her head. "Ah, okay. It wouldn't hurt the baby, would it?"

"That is the good part, given that the baby is so young its got a 'barrier' if you will that will protect it. No harm will come to the unborn child" kale said.

"Okay." Turning to Kale, her eyes softened. "If it will help you come back to me and it won't hurt the baby, let's do it."

Kale gave a smile, he then gave a nod to her.

“Honey I’m Home!”
USS GALAXY
Commander Deiran Casey &
Lt. Commander Casey Ti Miran

*** Casey Quarters ***

Casey entered his quarters and looked around to see where Miran and Lara were hiding. The lights were dimmed so he couldn’t see the room well at first. Once his eyes adjusted to the dim lumination, Deiran could see Miran and Lara sitting in the rocking chair that had been a gift from her adopted family.

He walked over to say hello and noticed they were both sound asleep.

Lara was sitting on her mother’s lap, her small thumb in her mouth and her head resting comfortably on her mother’s shoulder. She looked so peaceful and sweet. Miran was also asleep, she must have been exhausted from her flying the Klingon fighters almost 12 hours ago now. Miran was resting her head on Lara’s. Deiran stood next to them and watched them sleep for awhile.

He smiled. The quietness and serenity made him happy. The most important people in his life looking so peaceful and beautiful. Light from the stars shined through the viewport and onto their bodies, giving the room a bit more light.

Deiran didn’t want to move. Just watching his family sleep, seemed to give him joy. The sight alone made him think of the war and it’s costly end. It was over and he was thankful that the Federation survived. But the cost of victory was too much. He lost best friends and some of the best men and women he’d ever served with in this war. The alpha quadrant was in shambles, and it would take strength and courage to rebuild it all. The hard work was just beginning.

Deiran then walked over to his desk, sat in the chair and let out a fatigued sigh. He turned on the console and stared at the UFP logo.

“I’m too tired for a personal log. I’m going to bed,” he said out loud and walked back into the living room.

He walked over to the couch and gently took Lara into his arms, careful not to wake her up. He softly walked into her bedroom and put her into bed. She had already been put into her pajamas. Deiran put the covers to her neck and kissed his little girl on the cheek.

“Good night my angel,” he whispered. He stayed there for a few minutes and watched her sleep. He couldn’t help but smile with pride when he looked at her. He loved his daughter very much.

He walked back into the living room and stood in front of Miran. The star’s light through the viewport illuminated her hair and it shined like gold. He leaned down and kissed her on the forehead. Then he swept Miran up into his arms and carried her into the bedroom. She groaned and wrapped her arms around Deiran's neck, snuggled close to him, eyes still closed.

Her soft touch felt so good. He needed to be with her, even if she were asleep. He had been so worried about her safety during the Battle and she had been so mad when she returned he never really got a chance to hug her and show her how happy he was that she was alive and safe.

Deiran gently set Miran on the bed, undid the covers and then moved her so he could cover her up. She was already wearing her night clothes. He could tell she must have been cold. Her hair was still damp from a shower he suspected, she wore a short sleeved shirt and long pants - the items she normally wore to bed when she was cold.

Deiran then shedded his uniform and threw it across the room where it hung on the back of the bedroom chair. He was so tired he didn’t even care. He got into bed and laid there for a bit, thinking about the CLA, Starfleet Intelligence, his father’s strange behavior.

Miran instinctively came over to his side of the bed and snuggled close to him. She never opened her eyes. It was natural for Miran to snuggle with Deiran. Deiran was warm when she was cold, and she was warm when he was cold, which wasn't as often as the previous. Just having her in his arms felt relaxing. His eyelids soon became too heavy to keep open and he fell asleep with his arms around Miran.

"For Cardassia"
by Captain Robert Edward Lee Price

"FOR CARDASSIA!" Ragavahn shouted while standing on the roof of one of the non-operational subway trains. He was addressing the masses of Cardassian dissidents, the angry and hostile members of the Cardassian Liberation Army. The crowd, hungry, dirty, wearing tattered clothing and armed with whatever they could manage to find, repeated the chant with an enthusiastic and emotional roar.

Ragavahn smiled at the comradely. Anger is an ugly thing. It's bitter tasting, and self consuming. But channeled and directed in the right way, raw anger can easily be turned into hate. And hate could easily be molded into revenge. Ragavahn knew this, though he was not a man of the military. In his time on Cardassia he'd held many titles and serviced many jobs. A carpenter, an artist, a philosopher, a musician, and until recently a teacher of Cardassian history. Now circumstances had caused him to take on a new role. That of the leader of the CLA. He knew his people had been down trodden. They had been beaten, defeated. But they still lived. As long as even one Cardassian could draw a breath, there was still hope of restoring their homeland, their empire to the greatness it once held. . . . and make their enemies pay. Every journey starts with a first step. Right now the Cardassian people had nothing; and nothing to loose. The only thing to their advantage in all of this was their hatred.

Raising his arms in an outstretched fashion, Ragavahn began to quiet the crowd that had gathered in their under ground junction station just a few miles outside of Icarian City. The Cardassian leader could feel the emotions and energy radiating from the crowd, who by his visual estimate numbered over two hundred members.

"Even as we speak here today our enemies are staking claim to what was once our homes. Some of you have seen them, clearing away our history, our art, our buildings. Bodies of our loved ones. Bulldozing our soil. Sweeping away all that was built before on our land so that they may fashion their military supply depots. Their bunkers and concentration camps where they herd our weak and elderly to do their bidding, while we are forced to lurk down here, in what remains of our subterranean transportation tunnels. The Federation believes they are in control. They believe we have been defeated and will not, CAN NOT fight back. I say to you today, THEY ARE WRONG!"

Another round of cheers erupts through the crowd. It could be seen on their faces. The hatred that was building. The bottled up anger over what had happened to their loved ones, to their cities, their homeworld. Ragavahn was an effective speaker. He was tapping into that energy and forging the CLA movement in a way that had been done before by many a leaders from history's past.

Ragavahn stood there, an icon atop the train car, waiting for his followers to quiet down again before he proceeded. "Last night, a hero of Cardassia gave his life so that two of his brothers could escape capture by the Federation scum that contaminates our soils. Pomel,. . . ." Ragavahn paused for that sentimental effect, "talented and brave Pomel, was approached by one of the Federation's armed patrols while scouting out a Federation military supply depots. When the centurions spotted him and went to draw their weapons, the brave soldier looked boldly into their serpent-like eyes and screamed out a patriotic 'FOR CARDASSIA!' before detonating an explosive device that took out the entire Federation guard and allowed his fellow CLA members to escape undetected. We grieve for our lost brother. But we will not forget him, or what he did for his world; For Cardassia." Ragavahn explained in a commanding tone as his hand formed into an angry fist before his face.

"For Cardassia!" echoed through the crowd as others copied the powerful hand gesture that Ragavahn had fashioned. Ragavahn smiled as the crowd got worked up with their chants. He allowed it to continue for a minute before raising his hands to once again take control. They likely didn't realize it, but they were being trained.

"Many of you have been busy. Collecting supplies, fashioning weapons and explosives to help liberate that which has been taken from you by the Federation and all of Cardassia's enemies. That effort must continue. Seek out what you can. Gather it up, and bring it back here. Your resourceful brothers and sisters will find a use for it, no matter what items you find. Already with your help we have managed to fashion several large explosive devices for use in driving the Federation from our planet. I ask now for ten strong, able bodied volunteers to help in delivering these devices into the ranks of Cardassia's serpent enemy."

Immediately dozens of angry, hate filled Cardassian's shot their hands high into the air. Many ranting, "Pick me! I will go!"

Ragavahn watched as the rag tag group of survivors began the bonding process. He was creating something here, something that he knew would one day retake not only Cardassia, but all of the worlds beyond. None of Cardassia's enemies would escape from retribution. It was simply a matter of time.

*********

*** Shuttlecraft USS Yosemite ***

Captain Price sat in the pilot's seat of the shuttle, watching the display of the flight controls and glancing out the main view portal. He'd been ordered to report to Starfleet Headquarters at sector 001 on Earth, where the Temporal Authorities we going to hold a hearing into the Galaxy's recent involvement with a trip to the past with the Starships Excelsior and Enterprise-C. Glancing to his side, Lee could see the data padd he'd prepared just after the incident, documenting everything that happened and why he decided upon the course of actions that he had. Still, there was a nagging feeling in the back of his mind that this hearing was really about more than just the Galaxy's excursion into the past. From Admiral Braggits' transmission, Captain Price got the distinct impression that the brass in Starfleet Command were out to get him.

Checking the console, Captain Price punched up the display to calculate how long it would take to arrive at Earth at the shuttles present speed of warp factor 3. An annoyed look formed on his face when he realized it would be nearly 48 hours. With a sigh, he decided to make the best of it. "Computer, play some music please."

["Specify selection from computer auditory library banks."] the computer intoned.

Without looking Lee just leaned back placing his interlocked hands behind his head as he stretched out. "Play some Andorian blues."

["Working."] the computer replied, just before the music began to fill the shuttle's command cabin.

Captain Price leaned back and tried to relax for what remained of his two day commute back to Starfleet Headquarters on Earth.

WARNING.... This may be disturbing to some reader.

"Death is not an Option"
By: Lt Ryak Sullax
S.O. USS Galaxy

Ryak headed into the lift with his son. Sullar was not well and Ryak knew it.

"Sick bay." Ryak stated as the lift doors closed shut. As the lift made its way Ryak noticed that Sullar kept drifting in and out of consciousness. Ryak's was beginning to get very impatient. The lift seemed not to be going fast enough.

Sullar began to cough as his father held him tight into his arms. Sullar could not get a grasp on what was going on. His father was only a blur but he could feel his father's warmth and that kept him safe.

Ryak watched as his son began to cough up blood. This was not what Ryak wanted to see. He had selfishly taken his son from sick bay when he should have left him there to heal. The lift had been taking an eternity to get to sick bay. Ryak's shirt was already covered in blood and now it was getting it second dose.

The lift doors opened to sick bay and Ryak stepped out and yelled, "Would somebody help me!"

At that second two doctors ran over to Ryak and took his son over to the table. Ryak began to move closer to the table and was stopped by a nurse.

"I am sorry sir but they need there space. You go and get cleaned up and we'll call if you are needed."

Ryak was not going to leave he pushed her aside and made his way back over to the table. Right as Ryak got to the table he could see that his son was not in good shape.

"Sir!" a voice bellowed as a hand grabbed Ryak's arm. "You are leaving this area now."

Ryak looked to see that a security officer had been sent over to get Ryak out of sick bay. Ryak walked with the security officer to the lift. As the doors shut Ryak was alone. Truly alone.

"Science Department Offices."

The lift made its way to the offices and all that Ryak could think about was his son. The doors opened and Ryak entered the Science Department. Ryak only ever came here once in a while he was not all that familiar with it. As ryak looked around he noticed that the Chief Science Officer's Office had Lt/Cmd Morris on the door. Ryak was momentarily happy but it quickly faded. As ryak walked around with no real plan he noticed that his name was on the office door next to Morris's. Ryak was puzzled. Why would his name be on an office door.

"Computer locate Lt/Cmd Morris."

"Lt/Cmd Morris is on the planet surface."

Ryak took a deep breath and headed into the office.

"Sick Bay to Lt. Sullax."

"Sullax here." Ryak said in a puzzled tone.

"We need you down here right away sir."

Ryak turned to see two security officers there to escort Ryak to sick bay. Ryak had a large feel of panic overcome him as they made there way to the lift. Ryak had never been escorted to sick bay nor did he ever see this happen. The only thing that kept running through his mind was that Sullar was not in good shape.

The doors to sick bay opened and Ryak stepped out. As he walked over to the table where they were working on his son he could see the doctors and nurses running around and yelling.

"He is flat lining again doctor!"

"Damn it!!!!"

"Clear!"

Ryak stopped just in range to see tiny son on the table. Ryak could not move.

"Mr. Sullax take off your shirt we need your blood your son is not responding to the synthesized blood."

Ryak could not move. He stood there in complete shock. The doctor walked over to Ryak and placed a hand on Ryak's shoulder and said, "Ryak, death is not an option. Please remove your shirt and get onto the table next to your son."

Ryak started to take off his shirt and then got onto the table next to his son. The little lifeless body of the Romulan boy lay on the table next to him. The doctors hooked up the I.V. to get his blood and went back to work on Sullar.

"Doctor, Sullar's pulse is way too weak."

"Damn it. I know that but we have to get things done here or he is not going to make it at all."

A nurse made her way over to the very scared Ryak and gave him a shot. "This will help you relax."

"We've lost his pulse again Doctor!" was all Ryak could hear as his eyes closed and he fell asleep.

Chris Gagne
ALSO KNOWN AS:
Lieutenant Ryak Sullax,Science Officer,USS Galaxy.
Contact at: i2qtnot2b@hotmail.com
ICQ: 25686024

"Vulnerable"
Dr. Roman O'Neil, ACMO
unauthorized appearance by:
Lt James Chen

Roman was discharged from Sickbay but still felt a little groggy, he knew that would pass in time. Just below his right shoulder still ached from the the disrupter blast he took on the surface, but he knew, that too, would pass in time.

He stepped into the Brig. An engineering team was working on the door controls that looked to have suffered the business end of a phaser. There was a lot of grumbling from these ensigns as they tried to repaired severed connections and chared wires.

Roman glanced at those in the cells. Some were civilian others part of the crew. The Galaxy had the population equivalent of a small town and this the Brig, was like it's jail. Most of the 'jailbirds' were in for various misdemeanors, all except one, a Cardassian having a cell to himself. It was Ferib, the right winger he dealt with in Cassdahr.

Ferib had seen the doctor too. His expression darkened as his prey moved to stand in front of his cell; a forcefield between them.

"I have to practice my aim." Ferib said sarcastically. He got off the bunk and walked over to door, mere inches from the unseen forcefield. "What do you want Doctor, to gloat?"

Roman could see ugly welts on Ferib's face and his lip had a fresh cut. "What happened to you?"

Ferib smiled. "I walked into a door, why should you care."

Roman glimpsed the seated security officer nearby, their eyes met for a mere second. "Were you beaten?"

The Cardassian laughed. "You must be the most niave human ever to be born, Doctor. I was being 'debriefed' by a kind and gentle officer of the Federation, can't you tell how gracious they can be."

"I have to take a look at those wounds." Roman ignored the other's twisted humour.

"I tried to kill you, this is insulting."

"You're a member of this CLA aren't you? Why can't you see that we are here to help you, to rebuild your society." Roman winced slightly as his wound reminded him it was still there.

"I suppose you would like it if those initials stood for Cardassians Love Aliens, wouldn't you. Pathetic, just pathetic. Your Federation is so pompous, so full of their own superiority complex, that it assumes everyone worships it, like it was a savior, a god." The cut above Ferib's eye had started to bleed again. He dabbed it with his sleeve then showed the ACMO. "The blood of Cardassia."

Before Roman could say another word, the lights flickered and the cells' forcefields dropped. The engineer had crossed the wrong wires but quickly corrected it. The forcefields came back online, trapping the prisoners before they had time to realize what had happened. A few threw themselves at what they thought was freedom, only to have the forcefield throw them back. Ferib was luckier. Standing so close to his own forcefield, he took the initiative instantly, hurtling himself out, grabbing the startled medical officer and forcing him against the wall.

"Remember Doctor, we strike when you are vulnerable." His hand squeezing Roman's throat with a strenght not easily matched by Roman's feeble attempt to break free.

A phaser sounded and Ferib crumpled to the floor. Roman, feeling his throat, looked at Ferib lying unconscious on the floor then at the shooter.

Chen holstered his phaser. "You certainly have a knack for getting into trouble, Doctor."

Chen walked over to him as the other guard roughly grabbed up the Cardassian and dropped him back into his cell.

"You've saved me twice. Security's reputation as thugs is unwarranted." Roman said this to Chen but it was meant for the other guard as well, who only glared back before returning to his station.

"Are you ready to go back down to the surface?" Chen asked, slightly concerned whether acting as the doctor's bodyguard would become a full time job.

"After. I think I'll pop into ten-forward for something to eat first."

He left Chen in the Brig and collapsed against a bulkhead just out of sight. He grabbed his med pouch, and pulled out a hypospray containing a painkiller. He had almost blacked out when Ferib ran into him. The wound was throbbing as he remembered what he was told by one of his colleagues in Sickbay; take an easy.

After the medication started to sooth the pain away, he stood straight, took a deep breath then proceeded down the corridor to the nearest turbolift.

~Darren

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

"Thoughts..."

Hundreds of voices echoed in the corridors. Each one individual. It was a comforting collective. Most of it. There were many voices, many feelings. Some of the voices would show the fear, others displayed courage, strength, doubt, confusion, the list went on. Every now and then, one of the voices would turn into a cry of pain. Then, the voice would be silenced. In all of these thoughts, one by one, the voices were no longer heard. The host, the body containing the voice had died.

This sort of experience always had quite an impact on Betazoids. When one would hear someone's thoughts, it connects them in quite a personal way, and then when the thoughts are silenced....

It's ironic. For some, when thoughts are heard, they would give anything, do anything to silence the thoughts, and when the thoughts have become silent, all the Betazoid would want, is to hear the thoughts again, as they will never be heard again.

This experience had done it's worst to some of the crew. When 'Cat' and Teb, and some of the others had died, no matter who was around, or what thoughts were there, thoughts had been lost, never to be heard again, loneyless had struck. It was just something Betazoids had to adapt to, but was it possible. To lose people like this...?

Short term memory

Lt(jg) Tim O'Connell
Lt(jg) Neil Bolitho

Tim was still a bit dazed, ~a building fell on me~ HE thought groggily, he looked around seeing he was in sickbay. He sighed what a way to start on a rescue mission, hit by a building.

Bolitho forced himself to walk down into sickbay..not run ...besides he knew O'Connell was in good hands with the Galaxy's medical staff. Bolitho paused outside the sickbay to remember sadly a few faces that he wouldn't be seeing in sickbay.

Neil took a deep breath and the doors opened before him, a quick glance around confirmed the position of O'Connell. Neil smiled as he walked over

"Typcial 'mick' don't you know your not supposed to wrestle with a building!"

Tim snoted, "well watch what you say about us micks, you seem to be marrying one. If what I heard is true." He grinned, "but what my sister wasn't good enough for you? Seriously though, congratulations. It couldn't happen to a nicer couple."

" Thanks Tim!" Smiled Bolitho sitting gingerly on the side of the bed. "Emily was a blast but far to young and ...." Bolitho trailed off leaving the rest up to his friends imagination.

" So I need someone stupid enough to stand with me at the alter, you interested?"

Tim smiled at his friend, "I would be honored." He looked at Neil, "I wish she was here to see this, she'd be so happy for you." He looked down then back up, "and when I bumped in to you in the corridor and ripped your head off. I'm sorry I was being an asshole."

"No you weren't its totally understandable that you wanted to blow off a little steam Tim and what are friends for right?"

Bolitho turned a little serious." You've made an appointment to see Karyn right?"

Tim looked over at his friend, "she's not on the ship, she took some medical leave. Now I have to find a new pet shrink." He grinned, "boy everyone's trying to see if I'm ok, you, Kale, TZaq, Elaine.." Tim looked at him, "If I'dve know I was this popular I would have gotten hit by a building long ago.

Neil snickered "Takes a building to fall on top of you to find out who your friends are huh? You poor sheltered individual?" Bolitho shook his head mockingly.

Tim laughed, "well partner, look at it this way... I get a few days off of work and we know cardassian archetecture can't hold a form for shit." His grin faded, "Seriously though, I wish she could be here to hear this wedding news. She would be so happy for you two." Tim sighed, "and I would have lost that bet." Seeing Neil's confused look Tim explained he and Eshar had 2 bets going, first if Neil and Elaine had slept together, She won that one, and would they get married, he won that one.

"I wish Eshar was here as well Tim!" Replied Neil a little sadly. As for you no more betting over other people's lives!" Grinned Neil happy to see his friend in such high spirits after his tragic loss.

Tim sat up slowly, "oh next time you see Doc Gakor tell her as a Tellerite she should be ashamed at the quality of the food here. I think the Cook county lock up has better replicators then this. Tim was actually happy for Neil, a good friend getting married, a baby. "well partner, when I get out of here I'll have to kick your butt with the bat leth. I need the practice.

"You couldn't whip a three yeat old girl?" Bantered back Bolitho. " Get real O'Connell you have never stood a chance against me with a Bat'leth." Joked Neil

Tim bit back a grin, "yea but I do remember putting you on the ground pretty fast when you tried to out style me with Mokbrag and I just used a wrist lock to slam you down on the mat. And considering Steve almost made you eat that damned batleht." Tim jibed back remembering the time he had to stop his older brother from kicking Neil's butt when Neil almost decaptiated him lucky for Neil Steven O'Connell was a very understanding man. Tim thought for a second, then spoke up, "now next time I say I met the chancellor will you believe me instead of making me prove it."

Bolitho decided he friend was diffently feeling a lot better.

" When it comes from your mouth O'Connell, your damn right I still want proof!" Neil smiled " Just because you were right once, means absolutely nothing....... even if it was the Klingon high chancellor." Neil paused to see the highly amused expression on O'Connell's face.

"That building must have hit you harder than I thought ..because its ffected your long term memorary, remember all those girls back at the academy that you smuggled into our quarters, the times they stole my phaser and my comm badge just because you wanted some nookie?" once still doesn't get the nod approval from me! I want a pries

Tim rolled his eyes, "we got it back, how was I to know she was a thief. She had a friend....and how long am I going to be reminded of that anyway."

"Enemies"
by Numa Taurean

The air was thick and hot with the Cardassian sun beating relentlessly off the gray black stone that made up much of the architecture of this worlds people. The appearance was sort of reminiscent of gothic style except that there were many sharp angles used in the design of the buildings and other structures.

Mathias Blayne, an enlisted security person, wiped the sweat from his brow with the golden sleeve of his uniform. He'd earlier rolled it up to expose his thick forearms. Already the man was red from the deadly rays of the sun, and the sun burned skin was slightly painful. How long had he been patrolling, he couldn't remember. There were two other security guards in his detail. They were enlisted like himself. Angelica Thorpe and Jonathan Bradford.

Blayne hated the Cardassians. He wanted to kill them all. Why had the Federation been sent to help these dogs? They should have let the Breen and Dominion destroy them. Blayne would've gladly helped them obliterate these reptilian descendants. Like the dinosaurs of earths past, the Cardassians shouldn've become extinct.

There was a noise. Blayne stopped and lightly squeezed the grip of his Phaser. His finger slowly went to the trigger.

"Psst." He got the attention of his comrades, and motioned them to the noise around the corner of the ruined wall that he was plastered against. Thorpe and Bradford quickly concealed themselves while being able to provide cover fire for Blayne should he need it.

Blayne slowly peered around the corner. He could see an elderly Cardassian woman digging through the rubble. Tears were streaming down her face as she clutched a badly damaged photo to her chest. Near her was a child. A heathen child. It couldn't have been more than six years of age. It was oblivious to the damage that had been wrought on its world. It had an old rag doll in its hands, and it was talking to the filthy rags as though they were sentient. They were pitiful. They'd be an easy kill.

Blayne stepped into the open with his Phaser drawn. The old woman looked up at him.

"Please, help me. I'm trying to find my wedding ring." The old woman wasn't even scared. The child looked over and smiled brightly.

"I'll help you all right, old woman." Blayne slid his finger across the settings bar of his Phaser changing the setting three to setting eight; from heavy stun to maximum disruption.

The woman's eyes widened. She pushed the child behind her realizing what was about to occur. "Please, spare us. We are not enemies."

"You are all enemies." Blayne squeezed the trigger. Energy spilled forth from the deadly weapon cascading over and around the old woman and the child. There wasn't even time for a scream as they simply vaporized before Mathias Blayne. He smiled at his handy work. Yes, the Cardassians would be extinct like the dinosaurs of old.

Only the strong shall inherit the earth, or Cardassia. The meek shall perish.

Neither Thorpe nor Bradford were witness to Blaynes murderous deed. He didn't know if they'd approve or not, but he didn't care. If they got in his way, then they'd perish too. Only the strong would survive. He'd need to seek out others to help in his cause, but he'd have to be careful. The Federation was full of weaklings.

"He's a brick house"
Ensign Kale Danal
Lt. JG Elaine O'Hare

********Danal's Personal Quarters************

Kale turned back to the window, his face was illuminated by the Cardassion sun. "Elaine before we start, I want to tell you that your going to see my all my fears".

"Okay....."

The light of the sun also reflected off O'Hare's face. The two friends faced each other, grasping their hands, the scene that had enveloped was a one of serenity. The illumination from the sun hit both of thier heads and highlighted the color of thier hair. Elaine's tresses literally glowed a soft red as Kale's brown hair almost turned blond with the prism of light that carressed his head. The atmosphere reeked of pent up emotion just waiting to overflow. The two security officers silently regarded each other, before Kale spoke quietly again.

Kale lowered his head and linked his mind with Elaine, ~The link is complete~ he said to her via the mentle link.

Kale slowly started taking down his mentle barrier, as each 'brick' came down he took a breath until the last of the wall was gone. His thoughts started moving over the link and into Elaine's mind. Kale showed her the image of holding the child in his arms, watching as death carried her away to the Heaven's. The image then changed to show Celina's the little girl's eys, drained of love and compasstion and the inncents of youth.

Elaine had viewed death before, as a violent sensless act full of anger and pride. Victor and defeated. The officer had never seen anything so soft before. Innocence never came with an enemies death. There was something cruel, a void of emotion except for pride when you ended the life force of the opposition. Nothing like this. The vision of Kale holding the little girl was undescribable to Elaine. Her face looked as if it grew a bit older. Her eyes glazed over with saline tears as she kept Kale's gaze. Kale felt her tense as she saw Celina's eyes drain of the essense of being young and carefree. "....no...." The Lt. stated softly.

Kale lowered his eyes, ~I should have done more, I was to protect the innocent. I couldn't do anything, she laid in these arms and slipped away from me~ Kale said going down on his knees.

The room resonated the soft thump of Kale going to his knees. Elaine, with tears flowing freely once more, still held his hands as she stood. Kale lowered his head, his gaze not focusing on Elaine anymore. The link between them was broken for the moment. Easing herself down also on her knees, Elaine took her left hand and raised his chin to meet her gaze. She had to lower her head to the side to get Kale to focus his attention on her once more. The whites of his eyes matched her glasy, piercing gaze. The color of the outer rims of his pupils blazzed a brilliant blue. Elaine looked at him and thought he was amazingly calm for all that he had been through. Inching foward on her knees, she sat next to Kale, taking his shoulders, she wrapped her arms around him and held her tear stained cheek next to his. Gently, Elaine started to rock him back and forth in a soothing fashion. "You did all you could Kale.....you did all you could." The last part of the sentance was nothing but a whisper as the Lt. calmed the Ensign. Elaine held him for a while. She resumed her sitting position in front of Kale and held his hands once more.

Looking at him, the link was restored and an image flash, it showed Kale all alone. This was is fear being totally alone, no one around anymore. Taking deep plunging breaths he held the link, his eyes welled up with tears and his heart felt the isolation once more from the fear within.

O'Hare raised her head as Kale showed her his fear of being alone. Her tears glistened as she silently wept for the young man that sat before her. ~I'll always be here, you'll never be alone Kale.~ Taking her hand, she reached out and gently wiped Kale's flowing tears from his face. "Okay?" she whispered.

Kale a weak nod, "Why do I live and others die?" he cired out. Then another flash and the image of Tim and Eshar sent over the link, Kale showed Elaine that Tim wasn't dealing with the bombing at all. ~I can't do anything right anymore~ Kale said with tears streaming down once more.

Jumping at Kale's cry of pain, she recieved the flash from him concerning Tim and Eshar and Elaine jerked away, breaking the link. The Lt. gasped out. The emotional release was strong as the two just looked at each other and dealt silently with thier own worlds of realization concerning the events that had transpired in the short time since Elaine had walked into Kale's quarters to apologize.

Kale looked up then lowered his gaze, just as he thought. She couldn't handle it, "I'm sorry, we shouldn't have ever tried this" he in a whisper shaking his head back and forth. Kale started to rebuild the barrier that he lived in, the mentle prision the dwealed in every day of every hour. 'Brick' by 'brick' he rebuilt it, no matter what Elaine said he was in his fear he was isolated and alone at least in his mind.