"Wrapping up"
by Captain Robert Edward Lee Price

Captain Price stood on the upper level of the promenade and glanced out through the circular observation windows at the USS Galaxy. Having returned from the Badlands with the surviving crew from the USS Xerxes, the crew was making a temporary stop over at space station Deep Space Nine, the nearest Federation space station in the area. Lee was thinking how fortunate they had been to have located the Xerxes and her surviving crew. Had things gone differently, everyone on that ship could have died out there, stranded in that sea of plasma energy.

While the General was standing and looking out the large observation windows, a smiling Colonel Kira came walking up.

"Captain, there you are. I've been looking for you."

Lee glanced over at Kira and gave a grin. "G'day 'mate. Just 'aving a look at the Galaxy. It's seldom I get to see her from the outsides like this."

Kira liked Captain Price. His down to earth manner and Australian accent made him easy to talk to.

"She's quite a vessel all right. Starfleet really went all out when designing the Galaxy class." Kira commented. She then looked at the Captain. "I just spoke with Starfleet. They are dispatching the Lexington to collect the remaining crew from the Xerxes and to transport the returning POWs to Starbase 251."

The Captain was surprised at hearing this. It was the Galaxy's assignment to meet the Xerxes at DS9 and act as escort for the returning POWs. "That can't be right Colonel. The Galaxy was supposed to escort the soldiers to the Starbase."

Kira raised a hand, "I know. But that was before the Xerxes was lost and things changed. According to Admiral Hashburg, the Lexington will be arriving and will likely retain most of the Xerxes officers on their manifest. Besides, I'm told that the Galaxy will be getting new orders shortly to report to the Ursid system for an important assignment there."

Lee rubbed the beard on his chin slightly as he thought of what the Colonel had just said. "The Ursid system? I can't recall ever visiting there before."

Kira smiled. "Well, it looks like this will be your chance Captain. I'm sure you'll be receiving the new orders shortly."

Captain Price nodded, glancing out the observation port again. "How are the survivors from the Xerxes getting along on the station 'mate?"

"They are doing just fine. I think most of them are relieved that they made it out of this whole thing alive. Though some are sad for those that didn't make it too." Kira stated.

"And the POWs? How are they doing?"

"They came through this better then anyone. Quark has been keeping them busy with a celebration party in his bar." Kira explained.

"So they got their hero's welcome after all?"

"Yes, I guess they did." Kira smiled.

While the Captain and Colonel were chatting, Captain Curtis came walking up to join the other commanding officers. "I'm not intruding am I?" Victoria asked.

Kira didn't know why, but she suddenly felt a little embarrassed and quickly stepped back a bit. "Of course not Captain."

Lee also answered, "No worries 'mate. The more the merrier."

Victoria stopped and looked at the huge Galaxy class starship that Captain Price and Colonel Kira were looking at through the observation windows. The ship was quite impressive. One of the finest designs Starfleet had ever built. Looking at the shinny Galaxy class vessel like this somehow made Victoria feel sad for the Xerxes.

"I feel a little like a fish out of water. I've never lost a vessel before." Captain Curtis admitted.

"No worries 'mate. Starfleet can't hold it against you. It wasn't any fault of your own that a group of Maquis terrorists tried to hijack your ship."

Victoria sighed. "I know that. But I still can't help but second guess all of the things that took place. Think of things I could have done differently and how they might have helped."

Kira added, "I know that feeling Captain. It's easy to make better decisions after something has already happened and you have more information. It's making the split second decisions that is difficult. Like the one you make that saved the lives of most of your crew."

Victoria glanced over at Kira. Lee added, "She's right 'mate. Had you not punched it and taken the Xerxes to warp, she'd of been destroyed when she entered the plasma flows of the Badlands. Just like the Rhemor was."

Victoria smiled slightly as she shook her head and looked at the General. "Yes, but would I have made that decision if I didn't know the Galaxy was in the area and had a chance of finding us?"

"We almost didn't Captain." Lee pointed out.

"But you did Price. And for that I and the entire crew of the former Xerxes will always be in your debt." Victoria stated evenly.

Lee was now the one that felt a bit embarrassed. Pressing his lips together slightly, he gave a silent nod, acknowledging Captain Curtis' thanks.

To break the moment of awkwardness, Victoria looked at the Galaxy and began to change the subject. "I hear the Galaxy will be heading for the Ursid system next..."

Lee looked at Captain Victoria Curtis, and Colonel Kira beyond her and was dumbfounded. "Does everyone on this station know what the Galaxy's next assignment is besides me 'mate?"

Both women smiled at the comment. Having been communicating with Starfleet about the survivors, both Kira and Captain Curtis had been in touch more frequently than Captain Price had. Still, they found it funny that they both knew something that the General didn't.

"I'm sure you'll be finding out about it soon enough Captain." Victoria stated with a smile.

"Colonel Kira here was telling me that the Lexington will be assuming the Galaxy's mission to escort the returning POWs and the survivors from your crew to the Starbase."

"That is correct. The Lexington is light on her crew compliment at the moment. Starfleet will probably be assigning most of my former crew to her on a permanent basis." Victoria explained.

"And have you received word on your next assignment Captain?" Lee asked.

"Not yet. For now my assignment is to see the POWs safely to Starbase 251, and assist with reassigning the crew from the Xerxes. After that I'm not sure what the future holds for me."

"Are you going to request another command Captain?" Kira asked.

Victoria nodded. "Yes. I enjoy life on board a starship. After the inquiry into this incident, when Starfleet rules that the hijacking wasn't my fault or that of anyone on my crew, I'm hoping for a new command."

"No worries 'mate. I'm sure Starfleet will see things for what they are."

"I hope you are right Captain." Victoria nodded.

The two Captains and Colonel Kira spent a silent moment looking out the observation portals at the USS Galaxy. Lee then cleared his throat.

"Well ladies, if you'll excuse me, I think I'll get back to my ship and find out what this new assignment is that Starfleet has in mind for my 'mates and I. G'day Captain. G'day Colonel."

Both Colonel Kira and Captain Curtis bid Lee farewell and watched as he began walking away and heading for the airlock that lead to the upper pylons of Deep Space Nine.

Lt. Rayna O'Grady
Securiy Officer

Rayna O'Grady was on her way home, back to the Galaxy. Her shoulder was alarmingly hurting by now. Once the shuttle docked, Rayna got out and Vee called over to her, "If I was you, I'd get that looked at." Rayna for once, completely agreed. As she made her way to Sickbay, she was mentally kicking herself for a plan gone bad. It wasn't that it was a bad plan but the other's just had an advantage over her. The bridge on any ship would have been a challenge since it was designed to not be taken over so easily.

She walked into sickbay and Dr. Lemur walked up to her. "Sit down so I may examine you." Rayna winced a little as he tore away the burnt material that surrounded it. He shook his head, "Doesn't look good."

He touched it but she refused to show her weak side to the doctor, "How bad is it?" She was concerned. By this time, she couldn't lift it up at all and it felt as if it was on fire. He ran the dermal regenerator over it. After a few moments, the burning sensations was gone but the stiffness was still there with some slight pain. Being a Vulcan doctor, he was so blasted honest, "You're going to be out of commision for about 6 weeks. I'll arrange for some physical therapy too."

"Oh come on, it couldn't be that bad." She moved her arm and could feel the stiffness and soreness still.

The Vulcan doctor looked at her with a serious expression, "If that phaser had been set any higher, we would not be having this discussion because you would not have an arm to speak of."

"Has anyone told you that you have a terrible bedside manner?" She asked.

He just looked at her, "I'm not here to win friends." She replied, "I can see that."

As he walks away, "I'll get you some exercises for your arm."

While she sits, waiting, a very worried Mike O'Grady walks in.

"Buyer Beware!"
Introducing Ensign Raven Darkstar
Reviewed by Captain Price

Quark's bar, on Deep Space Nine, was bustling with activity as usual. Seductive dabo girls swindled customers out of latinum while watered down drinks flowed freely from the bar. At the center of it all was Quark himself, smiling fiendishly and rubbing his hands together, his prominant lobes burning with the sweet sound of profit.

Morn was at his usual spot at the bar. He emptied his glass of a sparkling blue liquid and slid it foreward.

Quark, never one to miss an opportunity to fleece his customers of more credits, swiftly scooped up the empty glass and refilled it, although this time he was careful to put in just a bit more ice and less liquer than he did the previous round.

Morn grunted his suspicions and pointed at the fresh glass.

"What do you mean i shorted you?" Quark screeched pointing his finger at the alien. " For your information, I treat my loyal customers as if they were an extension of my own family."

Another grunt from Morn.

Quark put his hands on his hips in a not too subtle display of mock indignation.

"Now just what is that supposed to mean, my dear FRIEND?" he asked.

"Ahem! Ah...Sir.." came a voice from the opposit end of the bar. Quark turned leaving Morn, who seemed to have forgotten his complaint as he began to swill down his drink.

" Kel, dont you have eyes? Cant you see that I'm trying to keep this place afloat? What is it now?" he said, impatiently.

Kel rubbed his hands together nervously. He had just been hired recently by Quark as a favor of the Grand Nagus himself, although truth be told, Rom had appointed Kel as his sucessor at Quarks. Who was Quark to refuse his insufferable Nagus. Not a day went by that Quark didnt feel as though he had traded down instead of upgrading. He was sure that Rom's replacement would cost him profit untill he got the hang of things and Quark was sure to adjust his pay to reflect so.

"I never thought I would see the day when i wished for my brothers services at my bar" he muttered.

"Did you say somthing about the Nagus, Sir?" Kel asked with a blank look on his face and his eyes slightly glazed over, as usual.

"I said all hail the Nagus. May his Coffers swell with profit and his deals be ever binding." he said annoyed. " What did you want now , Kel?"

"There is a...um..a large humon here to see you, Sir."

Quark annoyed threw a towel over his shoulders and turned to walk away. " Humons!" he practiclly spit out," they think your at thier beck and call. Never have any respect for hard working...Wait a minute. Did you say large? How large?"

Kel feebily tried to raise his hands over his head but found himself smacking a tall starfleet officer who had moved in behind him. " About this tall , Sir." he said jumping back from the scowling officer.

"En...Ensign Darkstar! Why...aheh..why I was just asking Kel here if you had showed up yet. Isnt that right Kel?" Quark said trying to mask the fact that he had almost wet his pants.

Ensign Raven Darkstar folded his arms across his broad chest and stared at the skitterish duo. The sleeves of his uniform were rolled up revealing powerful looking forearms covered with scars. Quark imagined that those arms could easily do terrible damage to his body, even though he was a lean, mean, Ferengi machine.

I ..ah..i have your order right here somewhere." Quark said nervously and turned with a flourish, "Why dont you sit and have a drink while i dig it up. 5% discount for you. Kel! Get this officer a warriors drink! A tall prune juice or..."

Ens. Darkstar leaned foreward and placed both hands on the countertop. His long hair hung down past his shoulders and quark couldent help but compare his image to that of a Klingon without the forehead ridges. As the large Indian loomed over him, Quark was momentarily convinced that he would be able to smell Ferengi flesh on the man's breath.

"I want what I paid for. No Drinks. No Hospitality. No sparkeling conversation. Just my holoprogram." he said in a voice that sounded like the rumbling of a volcano.

"Please." he added, as if an afterthought, and returned to his state of attention.

Quark felt as though he had just recieved a stay of execution.

"Of coarse! I mean...uh..Lemme get that for you while you...stand there."he said before practically diving into the drawers under the bar and rummaging around while babbling incoherantly about rules, profit, and risking ones life.

Darkstar had almost reached the level of his tolerance for the barowner, when a little brown hand thrust into the air behind the bar with a datacard wedged in its fingers.

"Found it! I mean, here is your purchase sir. Feel free to test it in one of our many delux holosuites." Quark said back on his soapbox and trying to regain his busness composure.

"I think I'll do just that." the ensign rumbled. He turned and made his way upstairs leaving Quark blotting his lobes with a bar rag.

"You can come out now, Kel. Thank you for all your help."

"Certainly , Sir." he muttered from underneath the nearest table.

Thier pulses had just about returned to normal when Chief Miles O'Brian stepped up to the bar.

"Hey Quark, is my holoprogram ready?"

The Ferengi stood there questioning his chosen choice of profit making before grabbing another datacard and handing it to Miles.

"Check it upstairs if you want. I have a bar to run." he said impatiently.

The Chief took the card with a furrowed brow and looked at Kel who was just now climbing out from under the table. He crooked a thumb at Quark and asked:" Whats wrong with him today? Got up on the wrong side of the rock?"

Kel winced at the mention of rock and the memory of the angry large Gorn from the Galaxy who had been in here a while ago.

"Dont ask." he said, ushering the Chief upstairs.

"Humons," Quark muttered, " Cant live with them, Cant blow them out of an airlock."

"Chosen" (Freelance Story)

Ensign Drake Tarsonis
Helmsman, USS Galaxy
with an unauthorized
talking with Lt. Richeson

Drake walked through the doors to his quarters to hear a beeping sound. He had a message and he hoped it was an important one. He walked to it and sat down to read the message.

He pushed a button and said, "Authorization Tarsonis Sierra Alpha."

A picture of a man about 40 years old, white highlights in his black hair. He recognized the man, it was Captain Jerek Wolfe, commanding officer of the USS Lexington.

"Good to see you again Drake, did I catch you at a bad time?" said Captain Wolfe.

"No, not at all, Captain. Is there anything that I could do for you?" asked Drake.

"Actually, yes there is. The traditional music festival is coming up, and I need backup trumpet, would you be interested?" said Wolfe.

"Why, yes of course, but I will need the details," said Drake.

"Oh, I know that. I've informed Admiral Hicks of my choice and he will give you the details," said Wolfe.

"Aye, sir, and thanks," said Drake.

"No problem, Drake," responded Jerek.

"So, what's new with you Captain Wolfe?" asked Drake.

"Well, the Lexington is en route to pick up the remaining crew members of the Xerxes. The Lexington is short of many crewmembers so they will be assigned to the Lexington. After we pick them up, we will make a stop at DS9," said Jerek.

"Interesting. Maybe we'll see each other at DS9 before wew leave," said Drake.

"Probably, if and when you see Captain Price, say I said hi, I have to go. We are now plotting a course for the Xerxes. Captain Jerek Wolfe, out."

Drake couldn't believe it! He was chosen for backup trumpet and would be playing at the Best of the Best music festival. It would be his first time, so he would have to be careful not to screw up. The only person he would know there would be Captain Jerek Wolfe.

He stood up and walked out of his quarters to go for a walk on DS9.

=/\= "Richeson to Tarsonis."

=/\= "Tarsonis here."

=/\= "Admiral Thomas Hicks is requesting to talk to you."

=/\= "I'll take it in my quarters,sir."

Drake tapped his badge and walked into his quarters. He pressed the button and repeated his code. A picture of an old man with a goatee appeared on the screen. He was an Admiral, 4th star.

"Ensign Tarsonis I presume," said Hicks.

"Aye, sir," said Drake.

"First of all, I want to say congradulations on you making the music fest. My ship, the USS Valley Forge, will be making a stop at Deep Space 9 to pick up some musicians, you included. You will need to have your bags packed and will need your instrument," said Hicks.

"Aye, sir, I'll be ready," said Drake.

"Alright, Ensign, we are currently en route for DS9 right now, so we'll meet you there. Hicks out," said Hicks as the screen went black.

Drake packed his bags immediately and grabbed his trumpet case. He walked out of his quarters and in to the turbolift destined to the transporter room. He went to the nearest transporter room and was transported over to DS9. He walked around and saw Captain Price by the window looking down at the Galaxy. He walked over there.

"Hello, Captain," said Drake.

"G'day 'mate. She's beautiful isn't she?" said Price.

"Aye, sir, that she is. I've been asked to take part in a music festival, and I accepted. If you think that I shouldn't sir, I can cancel," said Drake.

"No, 'mate. I think that that's great. Go ahead, but how are you going to get there?" said Price.

"The Valley Forge is going to pick up the musicians form here, Captain," said Drake.

"Alright, mate. Good luck, and have fun," said Price.

"Yessir, thank you sir," said Drake.

Drake took a seat down at a table and saw that he had 12 hours to go. He was boreed of sitting in his quarters on the Galaxy, so he would take a walk until Captain Wolfe arrived.

**10 hours later**

Drake looked out of the window to see that the Lexington had just docked after it picked up the remaining crewmembers from the Xerxes. He saw a 6'3" man with black hair with white highlights walk through the door.

"Captain Wolfe! Good to see ya!" said Drake.

"Tactical Time"
By Lieutenant Tim Richeson, Chief Tactical Officer
And Ensign Peter Lockhart, Security Officer
USS Galaxy

Peter stood outside Holodeck One in front of Lieutenant Richeson. The Lieutenant was presently explaining the terms of Peter's forthcoming Tactical exam.

"Alrighty then Ensign, you'll be the tactical officer of the USS Newcastle, an Akira class starship. I'll be taken command and judging your performance in the battle simulation. The rest of the bridge officers will be controlled by a holographic character. Don't worry, they won't make any stupid mistakes in maneuvering and you shouldn't feel hampered by the moves the ship makes. Any questions?" Tim asked.

Peter was pleased. He'd have preferred a Nebula class as he'd practiced most on them, but an Akira class wasn't too bad at all really. It was mostly similar to a Nebula class in handling and in weapons. It had more punch than a standard Nebula, but most of it's torpedo launchers couldn't be used all that often.

"No sir." Peter said after thinking this through. "Although...."

"Although...what?" Tim asked.

"Well sir, is this a no-win situation?" Peter asked.

Tim chuckled a bit. He hated no-win scenarios. Hell he when he took the Kobioshi Maru test he gave his instructor hell for making take the test. "No. No it's not Ensign. The test is really hard, but not unwinnable. Besides, the purpose of the test is to prove to me you're capable of performing the job of a tactical officer. You can lose the fight and still pass the exam, and likewise, win the fight and still fail the exam. It's a good guide however." Tim explained. He'd no reason to see Peter fail. With the recent departures of 'Commander Hermedhie and Lieutenant Skinner, tactical needed more manpower, though whether Peter was up to the task was another matter.

"Anything else?" Tim asked again.

"No sir. I think that's everything." Peter said.

"Computer, load 'Tactical Exam 16' and start when we enter." Tim said.

"Program loaded. You may enter when ready." the computer replied a mere second later.

Tim stepped towards the doors, which opened before him to reveal the bridge of the USS Newcastle. "Take you station Ensign." Tim said, gesturing towards the tactical controls.

"Aye sir." Peter said, stepping over to the tactical panel and quickly studying the panel, making a few quick adjustments to the controls.

Tim sat in the Captain chair, as the Ops officer suddenly reported, "There's an incoming signal closing on our position sir. Bearing 13 mark 65."

"Can you identify her yet Lieutenant'?" Tim asked the officer.

"Three Jem' Hadar attack ships. They are closing on us Sir." replied the officer.

Richeson stood up and paced back and forth from the helm to the command chair. "Tactical, target the lead ship. Helm slow to one third impulse."

Peter tapped the console and targeted the lead ship. The three ships broke formation and began firing phased polaron beams agents the Newcastle. Keeping weapons lock was difficult. The smaller ship simply was more maneuverable. Peter remembered a trick Lt. Groom and told him. Letting the locking icon float with the ship was more effect then re-targeting every few seconds.

Richeson took his seat again and glanced at the main viewer. The ship shook from several hits. "Evasive maneuvers helm. Attack pattern Zulu 4." Again the ship shook, this time however it was from a sudden movement. The Akira class ship split between two of the ships and fell in behind one of them.

Peter quickly realized the target of opportunity on the ship ahead and launched three photon torpedoes in quick succession at the ship, without waiting for orders. The ship ahead took one, exploding against it's shields. The second smashed it's shields down and the third did what all photon torpedoes did, ripped through the hull destroying the smaller, yet weaker Jem' Hadar attack ship.

"Nice shot..." Tim's voice trailed off.

"We're not out of the woods yet." Peter replied, watching the two remaining Jem' Hadar ships attempting to 'squeeze' the Newcastle. One ship fell in front of the Newcastle and started weaving, whilst the second came up behind the Federation ship. Peter had learnt the hard way that celebrating the last kill generally got you killed in fleet battles.

"Helm, engines full reverse 000 mark 220." Peter quickly said.

The Newcastle rapidly slowed and reversed, dropping down, allowing the rear Jem' Hadar fighter to overshoot the Newcastle. Peter sent a spread of photon torpedoes and phaser beams after her, though only one hit causing minimal damage.

"Good try Ensign, but not enough." Tim said, as he spotted the other threat. The second Jem' Hadar ship had turned and was coming in high and fast, strafing the Newcastle.

"Shields at 66%" Peter reported as the Newcastle rocked from more hits. Peter fired torpedoes again to ward the Jem' Hadar ship off.

"Helm, come around. Chase that other Jem' Hadar ship whilst we've time. Mr. Lockhart, fire full phasers." Tim ordered again.

The helm officer (whom Peter had noticed was performing excellently) executed the maneuver, allowing Peter a solid lock to fire phasers at the attack ship. "Direct hits!" Peter said, after the Newcastle swung by. "We've disabled her shields and sensor."

"Her sensors aren't the things that are damaging us Ensign." Tim said. "Helm, come around for another pass. Peter, another full burst from the phase...." Tim never finished as the ship rocked from hits by the second Jem' Hadar fighter still in action. "Belay that! Evasive maneuvers helm. Tactical, fire at targets of opportunity."

Peter again had the Newcastle lash out with forward and aft phasers at both ships, scoring hits on them both. The first Jem' Hadar ship was now mostly disabled, but the second was still there, and Peter was actually aware of the symbols flashing "Shields 17%"

Richeson squirmed a little in his chair. He thought back to his advanced tactical training, one of the first lessons was how to avoid situations when your shields were almost offline. Obviously it was a little late for that tactic, but maybe another lesson could help them. "Helm full stop!" he said as he leaped out of the chair. "Fire port maneuvering thrusters to make it look like we are drifting. "Ensign Lockhart," he continued "SLOWLY lower the shields, make it look like plasma leaks are damaging our power grid."

"Aye sir." Peter said, tapping the controls to lower the Newcastle's shields.

Both of the attacking Jem' Hadar ships came towards the disabled Federation vessel. Arming their primary weapons, they moved to finish the Newcastle. "Helm, when they get within 15,000 kilometers, punch it up to full impulse on a heading of 323 mark 35. Peter target the damaged ship with Photons, and the intact one with phasers." Tim gambled that phasers would cause enough damage on the fully powered ship to buy a couple extra seconds. The torpedoes would for sure destroy the weakened ship, eliminating any threat from it.

"19,000....18,000....17,000..." The holographic helm officer counted down. "16...15,000!"

"Peter, GO!" Tim barked

The Akira class ship leaped forward and turned to face the enemy ships, in a blink of a eye, a full spread of torpedoes and phasers streaked across the void of space and found their targets. The weaker ship shattered instantly, while its counterpart turned away, taking only minor damage.

"Stay with him helm. Tactical, load quantum torpedo's and start firing phasers around the Jem' Hadar." Tim hoped to keep the Attack ship running, giving the Newcastle time to reload its torpedo tubes.

The Newcastle suddenly rocked from aft polaron beams fired by the Jem' Hadar. "Fore shields down." Peter shouted from the tactical station and tried transferring power from the aft shields.

"Fire quantum torpedoes when ready Mr. Lockhart." Tim said.

"Aye sir." Peter said, and launched two from the now loaded tubes. Peter checked their progress on his control panel, whilst trying to reinitialize the forward shields when suddenly the Jem' Hadar disappeared from his sensors. He checked again then reported, "They've gone to warp sir! The torpedoes have missed."

"Shall I pursue sir?" the Helmsman asked.

Tim thought for a minute, then replied. "No. This test is over. Stand down red alert. Computer freeze program."

The holodeck came to a grinding halt and Peter stood at attention whilst Tim turned around. "How did I do sir?" Peter asked.

"Not bad, not bad at all Mr. Lockhart." Tim said. Frankly, Richeson was surprised, the kid was a helleva lot better then he thought. But that didn't mean he couldn't have some fun. "But I'm sorry, I'm afraid your score was below average. I hear engineering is looking for new recruits though, waste extraction maybe..."

"Waste extraction!?"

Tim smiled and gave Lockhart a wink. "Take it easy Ensign, I'm just joking with you. Your in."

Peter smiled broadly and replied, "Thank you sir."

"Computer, exit and end program." Tim replied. "Seems like you'll have to inform Security about the change of department. Report to me tomorrow at 08:00 and I'll assign your shift."

"Yes sir." Peter said, and headed out of the holodeck.

"Chosen Part II" Freelance Story

Ensign Drake Tarsonis
Helmsman, USS Galaxy

Drake saw Captain Jerek Wolfe, the CO of the USS Lexington, walk out of the sliding doors. He walked up and shook his hand.

"It's been a long time, Drake. We are still going to climb Mount Faber on Kalarian 4, right? I've been looking forward to it for a long time," said Wolfe.

"Of course, but will Captain Deckard be joining us, Captain Wolfe?" said Drake.

"Call me Jerek for now, we aren't on duty. Unfortunately, Eric Deckard and the Exeter have disappeared. The ship disappeared off of the scanners a 1300 hours two days ago. There has been a report of an anomoly in that sector. The USS Nautilus has been sent to investigate," replied Jerek.

"Alright, Jerek. That's too bad, I was looking forward to that climb with him.

"Look, there's the Valley Forge, let's get going," said Jerek.

"Ayre, aye, skip," said Drake as the USS Valley Forge docked.

They bothe ran to docking port 3 waiting for the gates to open.

By: Lieutenant Jake T Olson & Seth Zonhieb

Scott was roused by his least favorite security officer. "Whut?"

The most congenial lizard had just returned from an away mission. He was tired but, still missing a certain creature comfort the Gorn needed. An extra shift would hold Seth over until the ship reached DS9.

Now Seth had to play baby sitter for Scott again and make sure he went to Rehab. "Get up. You have an appointment."

"What? What appointment?!" Scott didn't wake well. Or quickly. The shield went down. Scott hated this bastard.

Rehab." Seth watched the groggy human roll to the edge of the bed. Scott seemed to be delaying leaving the warm covers behind. The Gorn made a fist and flexed the tree trunk he called an arm. "Do I have to carry you?"

"Coming, coming, fuck!" Scott got up, a rumpled version of Humanity.

The large security officer followed the slow moving human like a steam roller. It motivated Scott to take a few extra reluctant steps. "We don't have all day." the Gorn was just as impressed as the human. He wanted to get to DS9 and didn't want to deal with this. It was his own fault for volunteering for the extra shift.

"I'm moving damn it," Scott groused. "There's no need to crawl up my ass!"

Normally Seth would ignore that kind of comment. His lack of sleep must be getting to him. "It might be warm but too crowded for me." the Gorn looked down at the human as Scott looked like he was gonna lose the contents of his stomach after thinking of that.

The pair met Jake Olson on his way down to DS9's labs. "Good morning," he offered cautiously, the lizard was unreadable but Scott stared daggers.

"Fuck you." Scott snarled.

"May I ask where you two are headed?" Jake asked the Gorn, ignoring the Human.

"The low life is going to Rehab." The security officer had to flex his arms again to hold them in check. He wouldn't want them to lash out and wack Scott back into line. The last thing Seth needed was a reprimand for brutality.

"I see," Jake said, taking in the situation. The Gorn was clearly tired, and Scott could get on the nerves.

"I am going down to visit an astroid show, take home a few small specimens and a few for customers. Are you still in need of a heated rock in your quarters by any chance?" Jake knew that Quark shafted Seth and in the condition the Security Officer was in, that could be dangerous. For Quark. If Seth was going to confront the Ferengi, it would be safer for him, and Jake knew he would, after some sleep.

"Asteroids make bad beds." The Gorn informed the human. "Too bumpy from micrometeors."

"There will be rocks there from other sources, and I will be obtaining some heat rocks for my notoriously sensitive feather lizards from lava stone in from Bajor."

Scott snorted. Jake ignored him again.

I doubt you can carry the size of rock I require." Seth said as if making an excuse so the lizard could go into the center of DS9 and quarter a Ferengi.

"Transporters and grapples." Jake returned. "Chasing Ferengi is best done after sleep." was the sage advice. Jake didn't think he could deter the lizard from trying. "I have the approximate dimensions of the rock you have in mind."

"I can still deal with Quark if I don't like what you get." Seth nudged Scott forward so they could continue their journey.

"Very well, I will transport it to the cargo bay for inspection, if it doesn't suit you, let me know." Jake offered with manners.

Scott wanted to kill Jake. "I don't believe it, a two ton feather lizard," he didn't think the lizard heard the distasteful crack.

Seth just nodded as Jake left on his business. Now Scott would be late for his appointment if they didn't pick up the pace. "Lets go."

"Who are we meeting," groused Scott after what was to him an eternity of walking.

After dumping Scott where he needed to be, Seth appeared in the cargo bay and saw a perfect rock, Jake, and Quark arguing. "I don't understand, why did you bother?" the Ferengi was honestly puzzled at why Jake put forth so much effort into such an unpromising profit source.

The gorn security guard did all he could to stop himself from ripping the Ferengi's neck off. Then he growled at Quark. "He's saving your life little man."

"I managed to get this off Bajor," the rock was perfect furnishings for a feather lizard if it was two tons, like Seth. "Lava," The Ferengi just stared.

"I don't care where you got it." The gorn interrupted. "I already paid for it you shouldn't make Jake pay as well."

Quark looked in sudden surprise at Jake. "Hugh? He found the rock...asked Bajor if he could..." Quark would have left Seth sleepless on the Galaxy.

Something snapped and the Gorn's massive arm was held out straight. Seth found a large eared head in his fist and legs dangling off the floor. "Didn't they make a rule about double crossing someone bigger than you?"

"Sue him, that's how Ferengi do revenge, make him pay a fine, and keep your commission." Jake spoke loudly. He felt a fear at the clear blood lust, and Quark paid no notice to Jake's words.

Quark was too busy struggling to breath and sweating. "More fun to see how far I can stretch is lobes." Seth ran his claw over the Ferengi skull. Clearly the lizard meant brain lobes not the huge ears.

"Go after the latinum, that is the meat of the Ferengi."

Jake was getting really worried, and Quark realized fast that Jake was trying his damnedest to save his skin and said nothing, he had access to slick attorneys. Not a new skin.

"Yes I think I'll have a full refund." The gorn security guard said opening his iron grip enough to let the bartender breath.

"What about my brokerage fee?" Quark asked quickly. His windpipe was constricted again then let go. "Ok. Ok."

Seth let go and the Ferengi collapsed on the floor in a heap. "Thank you."

"As I don't know the layout of your quarters, could you handle the transfer of the rock?" asked Jake, whom was still nervous at the still potentially explosive situation, he lay a quieting hand on Quark.

Nothing in my quarters but sand right now." The gorn said then stepped up to the transporter. He fed the coordinates into the computer and moved the massive stone. Before he left Seth glared at Quark. "Make sure you remember to never cross me again."

Jake was holding in his arms a shivering Ferengi. The creature was nodding feverishly.

"A Second Chance"

Lt. Commander Karyn Dallas RN
Chief Counselor/Nurse

Lt. Navarre Shinta
Assistant Chief Counselor
USS Galaxy

Karyn was exhausted from her night with Nilani, but she wasn't about to go to bed. Nilani needed help and their first priority had been to get all the weapons and potentially dangerous items out of her quarters. She'd almost killed Karyn last night, but she'd already decided to keep silent with that information for a while. As far as Security was concerned, this quarters search wasn't so unusual and was SOP for suicidal crew. Thankfully, Karyn hadn't had to do this for a while, but it was an indication of an up hill battle to come. She was glad Nilani was sleeping peacefully in her quarters and had consented to the search.

She had to talk to Shinta because Nilani was going to need complete supervision for awhile, and she couldn't do it by herself. Nilani needed a friend and socialization as soon as possible. She wasn't sure how well Nilani was going to trust Shinta, but Karyn would be there and learning to trust was part of Nilani's recovery.

She walked into Shinta's office, hoping if she talked fast enough she wouldn't bug Karyn about how tired Karyn looked. "Hi, are you free for a moment? I have something I need your help with." In her haste, she'd forgotten to check Shinta's appointment roster.

Shinta looked up. "Sure I have time for you." Her next patient would not be here until half an hour from now.

"As I suspected, Nilani Khan is going to need our help. She's experiencing the inevitable backlash from her time in the Alternate timeline. She's done some things she's not proud of and had some things done to her that I'm not even sure I can repeat right now... If I had to call it right now, I'd say PTSD, I'm worried she's going to hurt herself or someone else. She's already tried, so I want her on complete supervision for awhile. I can't do this by myself, so I need you to help out. I'd ask Mike or Adrian, but I doubt she'd trust men right now. Keep things light at first, give her some socialization. I'll do the sessions initially, but you'll need to sit in to know where we're coming from. She's sleeping in my quarters right now, so I'll call when she wakes up. You might want to split your caseload with Mike and Adrian, as I don't want to keep bringing people in and out of her life right now. This is Miran all over again, and I'll be damned if I let anyone send her away."

"Can you tell me exactly what happened to her and how? I have not really looked into her case, because you were dealing with it. If I understand correctly she served on the Galaxy before as the doctor?" Shinta was a bit puzzled about is all. "But of course I will help, if she will accept me."

Karyn nodded. "It's really rather complicated, and I am not really sure how THIS Nilani ended up here, but the Nilani from this timeline as far as we understood was killed several months ago in a turbolift accident along with several of our senior officers at the time." Karyn cringed at the memory. Kristen Opel had broken the news to her when she had come out of surgery. It was her first stint as a nurse. Both Nilani and Cat had signed her graduation certificate mere hours before their deaths. "Nilani was our CMO at the time, but now she's back from an alternate reality - one where beatings and rapes occurred daily as a rule," she scoffed in disgust, "I'll give you her case file and you can see for yourself as I'm not sure I can truly relate all that she's seen and experienced. I'm not sure she'll trust you, but we'll work together and see how it goes.

Karyn turned to leave, but added as an afterthought, "I've been thinking about starting a sexual assault and domestic abuse survivor's group here on the Galaxy. So many people have been through this, and I'm tired of treating them and sweeping it under the rug because it's so horribly unbelievable we want to forget. Shared experience is our only way to fight this. What do you think? Can you help?"

Shinta did not say anything. Sexual assault, how many times had it happened to her when she was a teenager. Letting men use her to get information. Did she really want to be involved with a group like that? So many things could come to the surface then, so many things she desperately tried not to think about anymore.

"Shinta...what is it?"

"Oh... sorry." she tried to smile. "I was day dreaming.. I .. I am not sure. Give me a couple of days to think about it, Karyn."

Karyn looked at her puzzledly. There was definitely something else there, but she decided not to pursue it for now. Perhaps she just had other things on her mind like Gavin and the baby. "That's fine, I'm probably not going to get Nilani there at first, but we have many others who could benefit now. Get back to me when you can and I'll let you know when she wakes up."

"A Doctor's Report"

Lt. Michala Lynn
Lt. Navarre-Maxwell, Shinta
Captain Price

Michala finished the report and sent it round to the captain.  It shouldn't need any explaining but nevertheless, she made sure she was available if he felt a need.

Patient:  Lt. Eric Odin

Doctor's Analysis:  Patient is suffering from what appears to be an allergic reaction to his symbiot.  While this allergy is not immediate threat to the Lt., there are signs that the allergy is increasing over time.  Unlike normal allergies, this one is causing a build of an electrical charge.  Patient has been hiding ailment by using the holodeck to discharge buildup.  However, due to the increase in electrical charge, this is becoming more difficult for him to do.    The last discharge of energy created a biological back feed of some kind.   The result of this is that the symbiot has begun to store energy at the cellular level.  It also has caused the symbiot to grow.  At its current rate of growth, I give the Lt. two weeks before the symbiot would have to be removed to save it's life and/or his. At this time, I feel that Lt. Odin is a danger to others as he is unable to control the amount of discharge or direction.  I am worried about his abilities when angered.

Counselor's Report:  Patient is not fully aware of the seriousness of his own condition, and what that could mean for the safety off himself and others. Until such understanding is reached, he should not be in contact with others except myself and a doctor. Treatment plan is to work on self awareness and control.

Recommendations:  I recommend that Lt. Odin be placed under guard in his own quarters.  Light duty such as reports could be done from within his quarters. It is this officer's recommendation that he not be allowed contact with the crew until a satisfactory solution can be reached or until the counselor and I agree that he is not likely to strike out at another crew member.

Lieutenant Commander Ethan Suder - Chief Engineer

"A Look Around"

Ethan again found himself strolling through endless corridors on the USS Galaxy. Every week for the past few months, most of the crew would be in ten forward or round each others quarters playing games of some kind. But he just wondered through the corridors before returning to his quarters to sit down and read a good book. Maybe not an exciting plan by comparison, but it kept him occupied.

Eventually, he came across Sickbay. He came to a halt and looked at the doors. He took a deep breath and then entered the large facility. His silent entrance caused no attention. He strolled over to the main computer in Sickaby and suddenly heard vocies. He glanced over towards the small office area and saw the Chief Medical Officer along with one of the nurses. He didn't concentrate on what they were saying, just returned his attention to the console in front of him. A report on the computer indictaed the seriousness of Lieutenant Odin's condition.

He knew that it was quite serious, as was the case with Ensign Nilani. While she did not talk about her problems or wish to share them with anyone, Ethan knew that there were issues. And so before the report came from the Doctor, he had already assigned both Lieutenant Odin and Ensign Nilani light duty orders. That meant another two good Engineers out of the game for what was hopefully only a short while.

Ethan took one more glance towards the Medical office before leaving unoticed. His thougths continued swimming around his mind. Not only his. As he passed the living qaurters, science labs and recreational rooms, the thoughts and conversations of those in the rooms just echoed around him. Most of the conversations were just everyday talk. Ethan had missed that. Being able to just sit down with a drink and have a chat with someone about anything. The last person he talked to was Michael before his accident, and he too was having problems of his own. Ethan had to wander if he would get his memories back. The lost memories of the good old times in Engineering, his time spent with Karyn. Ethan could remember all the hassle they went through before finally getting together, and then this happened. One small accident and his memories wiped. Ethan still felt responcible but kept his own thoughts to himself, as usual.

Suder came to another halt when he realised he was outside 'Commander Dallas' quarters. He had thought about talking to her, see how she was doing and why she wasn't out with the gang on this party crazed evening. But he lowered his hand from the door panel. He already knew how she was. 'Dealing' was the phrase these days. He knew she missed Michael, and it hurt her to know that he'd lost his memories of them and his feelings. Being lonely was hard. And not only that, she was still working hard. Trying to help the others around her. Her apprentice, Ensign Nilani, Michael? She was a fighter, something Ethan had known from the start. But again, he just turned away from the door and continued strolling down the corridor. Karyn had professional people she could talk to and other friends as well. What would she tell him that she hadn't already told anyone else?

Ethan looked up when he heard two crew members talking. They turned off into ten forward, laughing, joking... Ethan came to a halt by the door and looked int hrought eh small glass windows. Most of the people were having a good time. In big groups. It was good to see several Engineers mixing with the other departments on the Galaxy. There were the odd couple of officers sat on their own, with a drink, looking out to the stars. Again, something Ethan had done quite often.

He again continued walking down the corridor and turned left into a turbolift. After leaving the turbolift, he began making his way to his quarters. Three officers were walking towards him, obviously on their way to the turbolift. Ethan just stepped to the far left and continued walking. Without a word, a nod or anykind of contact, the other officers just carried on walking passed Ethan.

He seemed to easily blend in with the shadows on this ship. That's how it was. He caem to his quarters and tapped in his command code on the door panel. The doors hissed open and Ethan strolled into the dark room. Only several lights were on. Just enough light that any normal person could just see their way around. But Ethan had good night vision. He spent most of his life in the dark, both mentally and physically.

Ethan picked up a book from the book shelf and strolled over to the dark couch. He sat down and put his feet up on the table. He turned to the middle of the book where he had last got to and continued reading. Quietly, alone. Everything was silent in his quarters. The loudest noise was when he turned the pages of his book. A book that had belonged to his parents. One of the few things he had left of them. But again, that was the way it was...

"More pips"
by Captain Robert Edward Lee Price

The whir of the turbolift beginning it's ascent from the lowest levels of the Galaxy was the only sound the three officers heard filling up the void. Lieutenant Savat, the Vulcan, was the last one to enter and stood perfectly postured, silently waiting for the lift to ascend the 38 decks to the bridge where he and the other officers had been summoned. Lieutenant Olson stood near the back of the lift and was wondering why it was that the Captain had summoned himself, Savat and Ensign Kahn to meet him in the Captain's ready room. Jake knew that the Galaxy had just left space station Deep Space Nine and was on route to the Ursid star system. The Science officer wondered silently if this briefing was regarding their upcoming assignment.

Nilani, the junior most officer the Captain had summoned, but also the first one in the turbolift, made her thoughts known to break the silence.

"Do either of you know why the Captain has summoned us to the bridge?" Ensign Kahn asked.

The question caused Lieutenant Savat to turn slightly, taking his attentions away from the rapidly passing lights that distinguished each deck of the Galaxy, to look at the female Engineer.

"I believe the Captain's intent will be made clear in just a few minutes Ensign." The Vulcan security officer stated unemotionally.

The comment caused Jake to smile, but he quickly concealed his smirk with a strategically placed hand as he grabbed the end of his chin and looked away.

"Maybe he has a special assignment for us. Some sort of secret away mission or something like that? That could explain why only we three were ordered to see him. We are, after all, each from different departments on the ship." Nilani explained to fill up the silence that was driving her crazy.

Savat blinked once. "While I do not dismiss that as a possibility Ensign, I find that reasoning to be improbable."

Ensign Kahn figured Savat was right, but couldn't figure of any other reason why the Captain would summon her to his ready room. She hadn't caused any trouble that she was aware of. In fact, Nilani had helped to oversee the repairs to the destroyed holodeck where the Odin incident had occurred. If anything, Nilani had been too busy to get into any sort of trouble at all recently.

"Then why do you think the Captain has summoned us to his office Lieutenant Savat?" Ensign Kahn asked candidly.

Savat just looked forward at the closed turbolift doors. By his calculations, even with the distracting conversations, he knew the doors would be opening in a moment as the lift reached deck 1.

"I would prefer not to speculate Ensign." Savat stated just as the lift stopped and the turbolift doors swished open onto the bridge.

Stepping out of the lift, Mister Savat, Jake and Nilani walked across the bridge and headed towards the General's office. Commander Thomas gave a nod from the command chair, acknowledging the arriving officers.

When they reached the General's office, Savat activated the chime. The Captain's voice beckoned them to enter. Stepping inside, the three officers saw Lee sitting at his desk.

"G'Day 'mates. Come in, make yourselves comfortable."

Mister Savat glanced over his shoulder and could see that Lieutenant Olson and Ensign Kahn were just behind him on either side.

"Reporting as ordered Captain." Savat announced formally.

Lee smiled at the Vulcan. Having served much of his Starfleet career with Vulcans, the General came to appreciate their dedication to logic and no-nonsense approach to duty.

"At ease 'mate. This happens to be a happy occasion." Lee stated, noting the dislike of his equating an emotion to the reason the officers had been summoned. "Since you are each from different departments, I think I'll take Captain's purgative and address the lady first."

Nilani stiffened slightly, still not knowing what this was all about. Somehow in the back of her mind she still felt it must be some sort of special assignment or something like that.

Lee reached into his desk drawer and pulled out a small pip.

"Doctor Kahn. Your performance on the Galaxy has been bonzer to date. I must admit I had a few reservations about allowing you to remain on the crew when we first discovered you after your... predecessor's death so many months earlier. However I am pleased that my fears were unfounded and that you've excelled in your duties as an Engineer. Therefore it is my pleasure to announce your promotion to Lieutenant Junior Grade." Lee handed Nilani the half pip and offered his hand. "Congratulations Lieutenant' Kahn."

Nilani blushed slightly as she took the pip and shook the Captain's hand. The General had a strong, yet gentle grip and seemed genuinely sincere in his words and eye contact. It felt nice to get recognition for her accomplishments thus far.

"Thank you sir." Nilani smiled. She then felt with her fingers and began adding her new insignia to her gold collar.

Lee then looked over at Jake. "I think we will do you next Lieutenant."

Olson began beaming with a smile that he tried to suppress, but somehow was unable to. He watched as the Captain pulled out another half pip and presented it to him.

"I can't remember a time since I've had command of the Galaxy when the Science department was so well staffed with competent scientists such as yourself 'mate. Your experience and attention to detail is a large reason why the Galaxy is one of the finest ships in the fleet. I just hope you don't get cocky on me now that you are a Lieutenant Commander and decide to take another assignment somewhere else in the fleet." The Captain explained while handing Jake the half pip and shaking his hand.

"No sir." Jake smiled. "I consider the Galaxy my home, and everyone here my family Captain."

"That's good to hear 'mate." the General smiled. His glance then turned to Lieutenant Savat who stood by unemotionally waiting for his turn. Now he was satisfied in knowing why this lot of three officers had been summoned to the Captain's ready room. Everything else seemed like mere formality.

"Mister Savat. I know you came on board the Galaxy to get back on board a starship after serving with Starfleet Intelligence. And since your time on board you have been the model officer. I know that having the Chief Security Officer suddenly depart the Galaxy presented no small challenge to you as a new officer on board, yet you handled the situation with grace and total professionalism. I must say I am quite impressed." Lee held out a half pip which he rolled in his hand as he presented it to the Lieutenant. "I was hoping that besides accepting this promotion to Lieutenant Commander that you will also step up to the role of Chief Security Officer on board the Galaxy 'mate. I realize it is quite a step from merely being an officer, however having served as CSO on board the Sulu, and seeing how you've handled yourself in your time here, I'm sure you are more than qualified to take on the challenge."

Savat nodded elegantly. "I accept the new responsibilities and will do my best to prove your faith in my abilities has not been misplaced Captain."

"Bonzer 'mate. When you get settled in to your new office I'll arrange to have myself or Commander Thomas go over the responsibilities. Welcome to the senior staff 'Commander."

Savat shook the Captain's offered hand as he held his newest pip in the other. "Thank you Captain."

Glancing at the three officers, Lee gave a satisfied nod. "Well, that's all I have for the moment 'mates. I've already contacted your department heads and informed them of your new rank, Mister Savat being the exception. So if there is nothing else you are all dismissed."

All three of the officers gave a nod. Both Jake and Nilani were smiling, while Savat seemed to be more Vulcan-like in his expression, though he did seem to be standing a little taller as he and the others walked out of the Captain's office.

Lee watched as they exited while he leaned back in his black leather chair. It was always a pleasure to be able to recognize the officers that served on board the Galaxy with dedication and distinction. As far as the duties of being the Commanding Officer of a starship, this was one of those that Lee enjoyed the most.

When the doors swished shut, the General pivoted in his chair and looked out at the passing stars in his rectangular observation window. A smile was still beaming on his face from the newest promotions on the USS Galaxy.

"Elementary, Dear Watson!"
with Ensign Raven Darkstar
Location: Quark's Bar, DS9

Quark was feeling good about life today. He had escaped death and dismemberment at the hands of a rather angry walking lizard. That creepy indian had his program and was now out of his lobes. Ironic, he mused, that they are both going to be on the same ship. With any luck, they would kill each other.

O'Brian was satisfied, and what was even better, station security had left him alone today. Excellent for busness, he thought as he rubbed his hands together.

The Dabo wheel kept spinning. Drinks kept flowing. He thought he was going to have to see Bashir soon to have the sweet smell of latinum surgically removed from his nose.

Even that bumbling idiot Kel had managed to stay away from him and even seemed capable, for once, of carring a glass without spilling it on a paying customer, which in itself was a major miracle. Thank the profits, as they say on Bajor.

Thank the profits.....for the profits! He thought smiling. What a sense of humor. Ahh, yes life was good.

Then he glanced at the stairs to the holosuites and felt color drain from his face.

Ensign Darkstar was descending the stairs, wearing a scowl that would make Worf look cheerfull. His dark eyes searched every corner of the room before locking on to Quarks own gaze. The large human moved effortlessly through the crowd of drunken revelers, on a direct collision coarse with the Ferengi.

Quark, having seen this before from many an angry customer, knew instinctivly that trouble was heading his way. For once he actually wished security was here in full force, or even Odo to sarcastically pluck him out of harms way.

He acted fast and utilized one of his time honored defenses against extremely agressive threats.

He turned and ran and crashed into Kel knocking over a tray of drinks and leaving them both in a dripping heap on the floor.

The liquid burned Quark's eyes. He stood up and flopped about before reaching out to blot his eyes on a rag handed to him.

He was going to yell at Kel, but saw that the buffoon was again under a table in hiding.

"Good help is hard to find." he said turning to look at the quick thinking samaratin who gave him the towel. " How would you like a job...urk!'

He literally choked on his words to see that it was Ensign Darkstar who assisted him.

"Hello Quark. We need to talk." Darkstar said hoisting the Ferengi into the air with one arm.

Quark eyed the customers around him who were paying the scene no mind. He would remember to raise the drink prices 7% for all these slugs who wouldent help him. If he lived through this, that is.

"S..Sure..Ensign...W W What seems to be the problem?" he said nervously, his feet dangling off the floor.

"The holo that you sold me is not what i ordered."

"Now you wait a minute. If your looking for a refund, you've come to the wrong place. It was made just as you ordered. If you dont like it , why thats too bad. Buyer beware. Rule number 56 clearly states......" he babbled on jabbing Darkstar in the chest with his finger for emphasis, which was comical givin his present prediciment.

Darkstar, in no mood to here about inane rules, carried Quark behind the counter and hung him from a large hook that usually dangled a bottle of "top shelf" Bajoran brandy.

"Put me down this instant! I'll have you know that i'm a close personal friend of Colonal Kira! She's not going to like you manhandling one of her trusted associates!"

Quark's eyes grew wide as the indian retrieved 3 sharp knives from the banquet table. "Your...you're not gonna scalp me are you? Clearly this is a misunderstanding! Kel ! Kel where are you!"

"I'm not going to scalp you."

Quark was relieved.

"Besides, Ferengi scalps make terrible trophies. Too much work to get around the lobes." he said, strolling back twenty paces.

Quark was now ready to wet himself. "You're kidding right? Right? RIGHT! Kel you miserable clod, where are you?!"

"Now Quark, I'm going to give you only three chances to tell me where my program is. You wont get a fourth.' he said holding one of the knives.

"I dont know what your talking about!"

THWACK!

"You moron! That almost pierced my lobe!" Quark stammered looking at the knife imbedded in the wall only a quarter inch away from the left side of his head.

"Where is my program?" Darkstar asked a second time.

"I gave it to you , you ingrate! This is harrassment!" He squeeled, closing his eyes as the Ensign reeled his arm back, but before he threw the blade, he was interrupted by a sweaty, panting, wide eyed Irishman.

Miles O'Brian glanced at Quark and then to Darkstar. "Sorry to interrupt. " he said sounding out of breath. " Quark, what the hell is this?" he said holding out a holoprogram card.

"In case you didn't notice , Chief, I'm a little busy being tortured here. You'll just have to stand in line!" Quark sneered sarcasticlly.

"Right then. " O'Brian replied.

THWACK!

The second knife found its way to the otherside of the bar owner's head.

"Nice toss. You ever play darts?" O'Brian asked the ensign.

Quark rolled his eyes thinking it was the last time he'd do such a thing. Im surrounded by idiots.

"Last chance. Where is my program?" Darkstar asked.

"And I said I don't know anything about your program! I ..Waitaminute! Chief, why are you here again? " Quark asked with what looked like an eyebrow raised.

"This blasted program! Its horrifing! If i gave this to Keiko, she'd have my head in a jar! I want to know where my program is. This thing...I dont know what loon would want this." He said still looking uneasy at what he experianced.

"I see " said Quark, stroking his chin like some modern day Sherlock Holmes. "Ensign, your program....."

"Was filled with mountains, flowers and a crazy woman." he said, holding the program in his hand.

"AHAH! " he screamed triumphantly, " There's the problem! The programs got switched! Ensign, there's your disk. Chief, there's your loon! Its that simple! " He said still dangling from the hook.

Miles smiled and Darkstar relaxed a bit. "I think this is yours, Ensign. Are you..uh ...sure you want this. Theres a lot of bad weather and chains and odd stuff." he said , shuddering as he remembered.

"Of coarse, Chief. And are you sure you want this? There are a lot of...flowers and the woman is unsetteling." he said exchanging disks.

"Oh, I think I'll manage. Thank you. You.. your going out on the Galaxy aren't you?"

Darkstar nodded.

"Good. I mean ..I think you'll enjoy yourself. She's a fine ship. Have a safe journey. Quark, see you around!" Miles said and he turned and left the Bar.

Darkstar pocketed the right disk and started to exit himself , placing the remaining knife back on the buffet table.

Quark still dangling called out "Hey! Your not going to leave me like this are you? Are you? Hey! Kel! Anybody! Don't I even get an apology?"

Ah yes, life is good alright. He thought to himself from his hook.

"You can come out now , Kel. Its safe....no thanks to you! " he said to the quivering Ferengi hiding under the table , wrapped in the tablecloth.

"The things I put up with for profit!"

"Back Home"
By: Lt/Cmd Ryak Sullax
Second Officer and CSO
USS Galaxy

Ryak sat in his office looking at the large stack of data pads that he needed to go over. On the other side of his desk was another pile of pads. These one where there as a result of his new position as second officer. Ryak began by standing up from his desk and walking out of his office and into the main science lab.

"Evin, I have a request." Ryak stated as the Assistant Chief Science Officer turned to see him.

"What can I do for you 'Commander."

"I have two stacks of data pads on my desk. I believe that it is time for you to have a bit more responsability."

"Well then. I think we should get started then."

Ryak and Evin entered his office and sat down. "This is what I have planned. I am going to be adjusting the duty responsibilities to allow for a greater efficiency."

"What do you propose?" The betazoid stated. He found it hard to read Ryak at times. Ryak was always so unpredictable. Ryak would be thinking one thing and say another.

"Mr. Olson has been promoted to Lt/Commander. This will result in a relief on some of the command duties." Ryak stated as he looked over his terminal. "I have more responsibilities as second officer. I will be spending a whole lot of my time on that as well as my experiments. I will still be handling all major departmental issues. All of those will still come to me. As for all lab and experiment coordinating will fall on you as well as personel performance evaluations. Olson will be taking over all departmental training, co-ordinating inter-departmental exchanges and science staff deployment within the ship. As well as all of your regular duties."

"That sounds good. I don't see anything wrong with it. It gives me a bit more to do and Olson more of an alligned work schedule to his present duties. I believe this should work more effectively."

"I am glad I have you on board." Ryak grabbed the stack of 58 pads and pushed them to Evin. "Thirty of those are yours, twenty eight of those are Olson's. You should get started." Ryak smiled as Evin lost his very quickly. "If Jake has any question's about any of this send him to me."

Evin gave a quick grin, stood up from his seat and began to head out of the office, "Ryak, next time remind me to not be so eager."

"Now why would I do that. Keep all that fun work for myself. That would not be very Romulan of me would it." Ryak watched as Evin left. As the door shut Ryak looked down at the padds and began to go over them. As he did, he began to feel a bit lost. This was all on a different level then Ryak was used to. Well he had a few hours before he was on Bridge duty.

"Box full of nuts"
Written By
Lt. Commander Karyn Dallas RN
Chief Counselor/Nurse

Lt. (jg) Khan Nilani
Engineer

Lt. Navarre Shinta
Assistant Chief Counselor
USS Galaxy

***Karyn's quarters, USS Galaxy***

Karyn left Shinta and returned to her quarters, so that she could wait for Nilani to wake up. Karyn had thought about catching some sleep herself, but was worried Nilani would wake up and be frightened. Karyn realized she was treating Nilani like a child, and were she in Nilani's shoes, she wouldn't like it, but perhaps a little nurturing wasn't bad right now. She would call Shinta as soon as she had evaluated how Nilani was this morning. There was no telling what she'd find and she wanted to do nothing to break the fragile trust between them.

Occasionally, Nilani would whimper in her sleep, an indication of further nightmares but Karyn didn't want to give her sedatives because they didn't allow one to recall dreams as easily. As painful as some of those experiences might be, they were the only link to Nilani's past that would allow her to remember and communicate to Karyn what was going on. Karyn sighed, this was going to be a tough process. She'd never actually completed it with one of her crew before. Ronni had left before she had the chance as had Miran. She was working with Rose and would continue to work with Nilani, but with her long term care was needed. Would Lee agree to keep Nilani aboard even if her contribution to the ship was not like that of one of his officers "mentally wounded in the field"? Karyn didn't know, but she'd fight tooth and nail if need be. Right now, Nilani needed her and Karyn would sacrifice anything to get her the help she needed because it was personal...more so than anyone knew, and quite possibly would ever know.

She wasn't sure of everything, but she figured Nilani could move in with her and take her spare room. Because of Karyn's grav-chair, she required more room to move around, so she'd taken one of the larger family units with an extra room. She hadn't liked the special treatment at first, but the extra room to maneuver and wider doors was a necessity.

Karyn moved over to the replicator to get herself some hot cocoa just in time to hear Nilani stir. "Good morning, care for some cocoa?"

Nilani rose running her hand through her hair. "What.... no...." Nilani looked around vaguely remembering something about why she was in Karyn's quarters. She heard Karyn start talking and looked over to her.

"Security is holding your weapons indefinitely. They'll stay there no questions asked for as long as they need to be. It may seem like a breach of privacy right now, but I didn't want you to hurt yourself so I thought it best," she paused, seemingly to gather resolve. "You gave me quite a scare last night. Can you tell me about the memory that triggered your actions?"

Nilani thought long and hard, she shook her head "What actions?" she looked around for her hair tie and found it. "If I scared you - I am sorry, but I don't really remember much from last night. Only vague things and some of my dreams."

"You pinned me down and held a knife to my throat. You showed me your scars, I touched your shoulder and you reacted the way that came naturally. I think you got caught up in a flashback of your time on the colony. Flashbacks are a major component of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and I believe PTSD is contributing to your adjustment problems. I know you didn't mean to do it and I'm not blaming you for any of it. You need help and support and we're going to give it to you."

Nilani took a long drink of water, she knew what she had done last night... some of it anyway. "You're right, I owe you an apology. I'm sorry about.... the.... thing, I panicked and it was the only thing I had open to me." Nilani looked around not sure on what she was actually looking for, when something popped into her mind. The room of Karyn Dallas looked more like the slave quarters on the mining colony, she looked to Karyn and only saw what she feared.

Karyn was about reassure her again, but saw the strange look in her eyes and pale body and instantly knew she was in the midst of another flashback. Unfortunately, all her hyposprays were empty and there was no way she could restrain Nilani should it become necessary. She quickly moved to her combadge to call Shinta, so that she could bring a tranquilizer and herself. Karyn hoped that the two of them could calm her down and bring her out of it without drugs or Security, but Karyn had Shinta put Security on standby.

Meanwhile, Nilani's body had gone white and sweaty. She had a far off look in her eyes even though she was looking right at Karyn. Nilani suddenly shook her head, "I need to leave, I need to go...... now..... I must go....."

Karyn had moved directly in front of Nilani, using her chair as a block. She offered her hands toward Nilani in a non threatening gesture and went to grip Nilani's hands lightly as a reminder of where she was. "Nilani, it's Karyn, I'm here to help you. I need you to remember where you are. You're on the USS Galaxy, safe in my quarters. I can't let you go out right now because I don't want you to hurt yourself. I need you to take a deep breath and refocus. What do you see?" Karyn focused all her energy on Nilani, but was hoping Shinta was going to show up soon.

Nilani was definatly in the room, she looked around and clawed at her arm, she heard Karyn "I'm bloody here Karyn.... I need to go.... Now!" she looked to where Karyn was standing her hand outstretched.

Nilani just looked and shook her head "You're one of them, I turn my back and I'll have a knife in it. I killed someone like you once!" she let that linger and looked around for something... anything to use to gain some distance from her and Karyn.

Karyn had never in her life seen someone so afraid of her. Granted, Nilani wasn't really afraid of Karyn, she was just caught in the flashback. In Nilani's eyes, Karyn wasn't Karyn, but one of her betrayers.

She looked around and collapsed in a ball, rocking back and forward ever so slightly. Unable to get completely down to Nilani's level because of her grav chair, Karyn waited helplessly for Shinta to arrive. Too concerned to be frustrated by her own helplessness, Karyn waited somewhat impatiently for Shinta to arrive.

And that moment Shinta sprinted into their room. She had grabbed a tranquilizer and began running as soon as Karyn's call came. It only took her a second to take in the situation. She handed the tranquilizers to her boss.

"Has she gone catatonic?" She asked softly.

"I'm not sure...I don't think so. She had some trouble with flashbacks last night and now she's delusional and experiencing visual hallucinations. We're not going to get through to her here, we need to get her to sickbay where they can monitor her brain function and vitals more closely. I'll have to recommend she be placed on an anti-pyschotic to calm the symptoms because I can't treat her like this." She looked down at Nilani and mentally second-guessed herself. Was this what she needed? Karyn hated to drug at all, it was too easy, and in her opinion, was a solution of last resort.

But in her mind, that's exactly where they were. Treatment was never going to work until they could get the psychosis under control, and Karyn couldn't do that without drugs. Only then could Nilani begin to think rationally about what happened and make sense of her emotions.

"I'm calling for a med beam. But I'm not going to sedate her because I have no idea how the anti-psychotic will react with the tranquilizer. She's pretty calm now, and has to be aware on at least some level what's going on, I don't want to frighten her further."

Karyn "knelt" down as far as she could, careful to avoid touching the woman for fear she'd try to run again. "Nilani, it's Karyn. We're going to take you to sickbay and give you something to make you feel better. Everything is going to be fine, I promise."

Karyn wasn't aware of the blood running down her arm from where Nilani scratched her as she called for an emergency beam to sickbay. She held tightly to the hypos of tranquilizers as the transporter beam engulfed all three in a blue haze.

Unruly Slugs & Other Problems
By: Lieutenant Commander Jake T. Olson & Eric Odin

Jake Olson came to Odin's quarters carrying an ordered snowball and a letter, the first was ordered by Odin himself and the letter happened to be in his hand.

The man wore the pips of a Lt. Commander and the letter was addressed to Ensign Olson. Needless to say, it looked unusual.

Eric went to the door and saw Lt. Commander Jake Olson and asked, "What can I do for you?"

"Your order, you ordered this gift wrapped and sent to your friend." Jake preferred the package. Now Eric remembered ordering a bauble for his friend's son's birthday.

He smiled and said, "Thank you."

"I've not seen you overmuch, are you ok?" Jake asked. At Jake's side was held the letter from his parents. He saw the return address label, his parents called him 'Ensign'.

"I'm alright I guess. I'm confined to my quarters because of some thing that has been happening with my symbiot. Things I can't really control just yet. Thanks for the concern. Would you like to come in?"

"Thanks," Jake walked inside the quarters. "I know what it's like to have health that has a mind of it's own." The scrawny Human said with feeling.

Odin did not know exactly what Jake meant and asked,"How do you mean?" he motioned for the couch as he sat opposite of it.

"Until the Galaxy's med people figured out an amino acid I could take to control it, I never knew when I was going to barf on someone." Jake took a seat and shoved the letter in a pocket.

Odin got a surprised look on his face and said,"That must of been interesting while at dinner."

"That doesn't begin to describe it, or end up in a holding tank full of criminals and drunks." Jake remembered that was how he met and befriended a Vulcan felon named Snake Let'On in such a circumstance. "At age 14 no less."

"That must of been some kind of experience. One of those ones you'd never want to go through again I'd imagine," Odin replied.

"Interesting though. Made a lot of friends and business contacts in there, of course two days later I was free and the security bunglers were seriously in need of lawyers."

Eric laughed a bit and said,"I'd imagine they might. My problem is a little more life threatening though or at least it will be soon."

"What happened?" Jake asked. "I don't mean to pry."

Eric shook his head and said, "As you probably do not know I was the one who accidentally destroyed the holodeck."

"Mmm," Jake said thoughtfully. "Your body's creating electrical discharges, that can be a problem all right, I did hear rumor of that but I don't pay much time to those."

"Well I did and it was all because of the size of the electrical discharges in my body and the fact that I really don't have a whole lot of control over it. if I get angry I'd hate to think what might happen."

"And there's nothing you can do about a biological situation, yes, that's frustrating. Have you spoken to anyone in sciences or xenobiology about this?" Jake was curious.

"I have and I'm still waiting on results. I hope I can do something about this."

"I'd be surprised if it remains a mystery. There aren't a whole lot of things that elude medical science today." Jake pondered.

Odin smiled and said, "I'm glad there always seems to be hope."

"If there wasn't that, we wouldn't be in space." Jake agreed.

"Another Friendly Visit with a Dear Friend"
By Lt (jg) Rose Isis MacAllen
Lt Eric Odin

Rose felt alittle depressed when she heared she didn't make Lt this time around, she though of herself as a failer...my she was very happy for Olson to since they found out there like family now she loved him like a brother. This time she is going to work harder to get her Lt ranks and show the Captain that she is a woman with a mission of been the best that she can for this crew and ship plus staying out of trouble.

She knocked on her Eric's door, "It me Rose." she told him.

Eric got up from his meditation and opened the door and said,"Come on in Rose. good to see you again, what's up?"

Rose try to smile alittle, "Well you know I didn't make my Lt rank this time around." she said with a sad sound in her voice.

He nodded and said,"It's too bad too. I know you earned that lt. I know if you keep at it you'll get Lt. for sure this next time."

Rose sits on the couch with a smile, "That what my boyfriend told me I miss him so much. He sent me some Betazoid rose to try and cheer me up..what a guy."

He smiled and said,"Guy sure knows how to bring a smile to your face. I'm here for you if you ever need to talk person to person."

"Thank you, you have been a very good friend I hope to meet your new girlfriend soon maybe we can go on a double date you, my boyfriend, you and your girlfriend I think that be great." Rose said with a smile while picking up some dirty clothes off the floor.

He smiled and said,"Yah, I think that really would be fun. Thanks Rose. When is yours getting back?"

Rose feels alittle sad now, "I don't know I haven't seen him in months, he busy with his duties so have I but I still love him Eric."

She walks to her window thinking about him, thinking about there first kiss together after she was saved from her kidnappers..it was sweet and slow.

He looked to her as he rose and asked,"Reminiscing?"

"Yes you can say that you know I'm shocked that no other man have a crush on me or love me like my boyfriend does..am I that ugly?" she asked as she watchs the beauiful stars go by.

He grinned and walked over to her and said,"You're not ugly at all Rose. You're beautiful actually. Why would you think you're ugly?"

Rose looks at him, "Nevermind my friend." she sits back down on the couch.

He sat back down as well and said,"I hate being confined to quarters. It makes me feel very useless."

"I'm useless to everybody Eric and this to show for it." she said looking at her PADDS.

He moved over to her and said,"You are not useless at all. Look at you, beautiful body, hard worker. You're very useful."

"Right, looks at me I'm 24, a Countess of Betazed, I have a boyfriend who loves me but I can feel other men don't like me...and I'm useless to the Science Department. Every since I got a message from my friend Kay Williamson she going to married her Captain and now my mother pressing me asking me when I going to marry my boyfriend and have children." she told him walking around at full speed.

He stood and grabbed her hands relaying a few thoughts to her knowing she was betazoid and said,"Trust me. Other men like you."

"But I love my boyfriend and he loves me no other men likes me." she repiled.

He realyed soem convos he had had with various people aroudn the ship mentallyu to her and asked,"Still think that?"

Rose looks at him with her dark eyes, "I don't know sir." she repiled as she pours him some coffee.

"Thank you,"he said. he then asked,"What don't you know?"

"I try not to read men minds, it very hard you know." she said with a little grin drinking her coffee.

He grinned and said,"Try real hard while I relay everything I can okay?"

Rose looks at him with a funny look, "What are you going to do sir?"

He smiled and said,"try and help you. You're a really great friend and I want to see you happy."

Rose looks at him again, "Fine ok but how?"

"I don't know. We gotta get that boyfrined of your back here though."

"He have duties just like me I don't mind been alone." she lied.

"Eveyrone minds being alone and you know it. I think he should get a break and come onbaord to help cheer you up."

"He works on this ship as a helmman." she told him looking at him with her dark eyes.

He nodded and asked,'How long has it been since you've had a date?"

Rose thinks for a few seconds, "Before the Badland."

"I suggest you find him and tell him it's date time, here and now."

Rose looks at him with a shock look, "I don't know where his is sir."

"The cpmputer knows all and sees all, why don't you ask?"

"No that ok I will look for him later thanks anyway." Rose told him as she drinks more coffee.

He drank more of his and said,"Your welcome. I'm just trying to help, sorry if I came on alittle strong there."

Rose looks at him then go to a mirror to see how her hair was, "It ok sir." she replied.

He looked to her and said,"Your hair is fine."

Rose looks at him "No it not there something wrong with it."

"What's wrong with it?"

"It not perfect, either am I." she looks down at the floor.

"Nobody is perfect. That's why you have to focus on the good and not the bad and you have plenty to be happy about."

Rose walks to the window, "So what now sir?"

He thougth and said,"I don't know really."

"Great thanks I really feel better." she lied again.

"You need to talk about anything else?"

Rose looks at him and gets her PADDS, "No I will be going now."

He nodded and said,"Thank you for stopping by."

Rose walks out without saying a word go back to work in the Science Lab where she stay there working for about 38 hours without resting.

Lt. Michala Lynn
Lt Eric Odin

Eric sits in his quarters meditating trying to calm hismelf from the news that he was now confined to quarters.  This had irritated him qutie a bti and he figured thsi would be the best temporary solution he could think of.  he udnerstood why, it just irritated him he would have no human to human contact for altitle while.

The door buzzed and slid open.  "Eric?  May I come in?"  Michala asked politely.

Eric stood form hsi meditation and said,"hello Michala.  coming as a friend or my doctor this time?"

"I believe the warning I gave was friend."  She said with a wry grin.

He grinned and said,"alright then.  come on in and makes yourself comfortable."

Michala came in and slid gratefully down on the couch. She had just transferred the children to a shuttle with the nanny.  She hadn't gone, she supposed that eventually Deiran would just have her transferred.  She would deal with that when the time came.  She suspected that Mike had something to do with that.  Her eyes were still swollen from the tears shed as she hand kissed the babies one last time.  "How are you doing?"  She asked more brightly then she had intended.

He said,"Alright I guess."  he sat across from her.

"Feel like dinner?"  She asked casually.  "I don't feel like eating alone. I was kind of hoping you felt the same way." Ever since they had "died" together, she had felt a connection to him.

He thought and said, "Sure.  You're always pleasant company."  he had felt the same way since he had 'died' with her as well.

"You cooking or mine?  I will warn you, with the title of doctor, a degree in cooking was not included.  But I am good at replicating things.  However, I don't know much about trill  foods.  Perhaps you could choose?"  She asked.

He smield and said,"I actually enjoy almost all foods.  You can either cook ro replicate.  I'm game for either."

Michala smiled.  "Well, I don't want to start a fire or anything.  She moved to the replicator and replicated a steak, salad and her favorite side dish from earth mashed potatoes.  She placed it all on the table and smiled over at him. "Just going to watch?"  Michala was watching him closely.  You could not tell at all what he had been going through.

He got up and walked over to the replicator and ordered parmasean chicken and mashed patatoes.  He then set it in the table and looked to her and asked,"any preference as far as something to drink?"

"Nope, I will be at your mercy in that regards."  She said with a smile.

he smirked and asked,"So, anything to drink eh?"

"I believe the menu is open in that regards.  I will have to admit, my experiences are pretty limited with food and beverage still"  She said with a frown.

He reached in hsi cabinet and pulled out a strange looking bottle with an amazingly blue content in it and set it on the table.  he then set two glasses on the table and said,"I present a pure trill alchoholic drink.  Game?"

Michala raised an eyebrow?  "Isn't that against regulations?" 

"Yah, but It'll be fun."

"What the heck, I am off duty.  Sure, I am game."  She said as she sat down with her steak.

He smiled as he opened it and poured them both two good sized glasses which shined  yellow in the middle for a few moments until it settled down.  Eric sat and said,"try it and tell me what you think."  He drank a good gulp of his and set his cup down waiitng for her opinion.

Michala sniffed the strange drink and put it to her lips.  It didn't taste like some of the whiskey that another crew member had let her taste.  This was smooth and sweet.  She took a larger drink.  "That isn't alcohol?  It doesn't even burn?"

He smirked and said,"It is Trill's version.  Don't ask me what's in it, all I know is that it does abotu the equivalent of alchohol.  Do you like it?"

"I do!"  She replied and took a larger drink.  "Does it have the same effect on the senses as alcohol?"  She thought it a great compliment to her meal.  She hadn't realized after all the emotional good-byes, how hungry she was.

He took a gulp and said,"I think so, but I've never really had it to be honest."  he was enjoying his meal as well.

Michala picked up the decanter and looked at it suspiciously.  "How long have you had it?"

"Since I was 11.  It was a present actually,"he said as he ate and drank.

"Does it expire?"  She asked with concern and a slight smile.

He laughed and said,"I have special scanners in that cabinet.  It's what you might call a liquor cabinet.  It recyles a bottle if it goes bad."

"Ahh, the life of an engineer.  I am lucky to know how to use the replicator."  Michala didn't think about all the complicated medical equipment she used daily.  To her, that was different.  Michala emptied her glass and set it down thoughtfully.

He emptied his as well and asked,"More?"

Michala smiled at him. "Trying to get me drunk, Lieutenant."

He laughed and said,"If so, then I'll be equally as drunk ma'am."

Michala smiled.  "Well then it that case it is only fair.  I guess I will have another."

By the time they finished their meal, Michala was feeling quite giddy.  She  laughed brightly at Eric's remarks and felt better then she had in days.   "I should probably go."  She said as she got to her feet. She sat back down quickly. "Okay, when the room quits spinning.  Michala's unique physiology was not handling alcohol well at all.

He smirked and said,"Alright.  I think you've had enough to drink,"  He plugged the bottle up and set it away from her.  His vision and speech were also being messed with.

"Isn't that like locking the door after the prisoner is already out?"  She giggled.

He laughed and said,"That could be accurate."  he noticed she was really drunk, but he was getting there himself.

"I didn't know alcohol was tis quick?"   She frowned.  She looked back at the decanter.  It was over 3/4 empty.  Had they really drank that much.

He looked at it in shock himself and said,"Well this must be good stuff then."

"Aye, it was."  She chuckled and struggled to her feet once more. "I had better get to my quarters while I still can."  She held out her hand to Eric.  "Thanks for letting me stay for dinner.  I returned Deiran's children to him today.  He is going to be most upset when they get there without me."  The room swam and she swayed slightly on her feet.

He took her hand and then held her up by the waist and said,"I don't know that you can make it there Michala."  He then swayed a bit himself, but was able to steady himself and said,"I don't know that I would be of much help as far as walking goes either."

MIchala giggled and poked him in the chest.  "You can't help walk anyways.  You Lieutenant, are confined to quarters."  She looked up at him.  She hadn't realized he was so tall.

He smiled and said,"I guess you're right."  His hand still held her steady without realizing it.

"Tis okay.  My fault.  I will just walk close to a wall.  If I see a senior officer, I will just pretend to be looking out a porthole or sumpin."  Michala looked up to see him staring at her strangely. "You okay?" she couldn't help giggling.

He continued to look at her and said,"Yah I'm fine.  Sorry, couldn't help but stare.  May I say you're looking more beautiful every time I see you."

Michala stared at him silently.  Her breath caught in her throat at the look in his eyes.  She went to say something and couldn't remember what it was she meant to say.

He looked straight into her eyes as he moved closer to her and didn't say a word, but kept that same look in his eyes.

Michala knew she should be remembering something important.  But with him looking at her like that, she couldn't remember what it was.  "Eric?"  she whispered.

He didn't answer her with words instead he kissed her deeply.

Michala started to protest but a strange tingling shot through her body.  Maybe it was the alcohol, maybe the strange condition that Eric suffered from, but it took her breath away.  Her arms went around his neck and she began to return the kiss.

He continued to kiss her loving this and glad she was too.  He wasn't sure exactly what had prompted this, but he liked it.  He moved his hands to her lower back and began to massage it as they continued to kiss.

Michala's head was swimming and his kiss was intoxicating on top of the alcohol. She pulled away finally. "We shouldn't be doing this."  She whispered, trying to be the voice of reason.  She was still pressed tightly against him.

"Yes we should," he said as he kissed her once more.  He was loving this and knew she was too.

Michala took a few moments to remember she was supposed to be protesting. She pushed him backwards and stood swaying before him, barely able to stand up straight.  "There was a reason I said that.. Oh yeah. You are my patient.  You know that whole patient/doctor thing."  She said with a giggle.

He smiled and said,"Maybe you should do a full check up then."  He approached her again and kissed her once more and pulled them both back together again.

Michala quickly forgot why she was protesting and wrapped her arms around his neck.  She returned his kiss with fervor.  Michala felt him release the catch that was holding her hair up and it cascaded around her shoulders.  She nibbled his lip softly.  "Did I say you could do that?" She teased, she tried to lean back and almost knocked them both over.

He grinned and steadied them both as he resumed the kiss slowly moving them over to the bed.  He continued to massage her lower back while kissing her passionately.

Michala knew somewhere she should be protesting.  But she had been so lonely lately and she genuinely liked Eric.  Right now, with the alcohol and the strange tingling sensation, reason had pretty much left the picture.  She was oblivious to where he was moving them, mesmerized by his kiss and hands.

They reached the bed and he slowly lowered her onto the bed as he continued to kiss and massage, he moved his hands to her chest and began to caress Michala through her uniform.  He received little resistence in fact, her hands were exploring as well. 

Michala thought one last time about stopping this before it went any further.  But it felt so right to be held that she quickly pushed the thoughts away and lost herself to the sensations of his touch.  Her hands explored and she rolled over on top of him and helped him remove his clothing.  Hers quickly followed suit.  Lost in the haze of alcohol, the sensations of closeness and the need to be held, Michala held nothing back.

He held nothing back either as he worked his magic in a gentle a loving way. It felt good to be in control with her for once.  He had longed to be with her like this ever since he had discovered feelings for her beyond friendship and could hardly believe it was actually happening.  He then lost any train of thought as sensations took over his reactions.

When at last they lay together, spent and sated.  Michala fell asleep in his arms. The alcohol, stress of the day and the glorious lovemaking worked a spell of relaxation that she couldn't have replicated.  She curled up in his arms, fast asleep.

He fell asleep with his arm draped over her.  He was spent and the alchohol had gotten to him as well and he was extremely content.

Michala awoke several hours later.  She had a strange dizzy sensation and she felt warm and comfortable.  She suddenly realized that was because there was an arm over her and she sat up quickly, startling Eric as well.  She grabbed the blanket at the foot of his bed and pulled it up quickly. "Oh my gosh, Oh.. "  She blushed furiously to see he was awake. 

He looked to her and said,"Michala, ah crud."  he ran his hand through his hair and had a dazed type look on his face.  he covered himself as he grabbed his boxers and pulled them on.  He then stood there not knowing what to say.

Michala looked around at the clothing, the bed and their naked state.  "Well, um I suppose there is no use asking what happened."  Her face was bright red.  "This is not good, I am your doctor."

His face was very red too and he asked,"What does you being my doctor have to do with this?"

"Against protocol to sleep with one's patients, let alone do anything more."  She said with a nervous laugh.  "At least I am no longer with Deiran, so I don't have to answer to anyone for my actions." 

He nodded and asked,"What do we do about this then?"

"Ummm dress, would be the most likely first choice.  Computer what is the time." Michala demanded.

[0600 hours]

"Well, at least I didn't sleep through a shift or anything."  She sighed, avoiding the more obvious question that he could see on his face.

He began to get dressed and asked,"What do we do about the fact that you and I just had sex?"

"Well.. umm.. what do you mean?"  She asked in confusion, finding her clothing scattered about the foot of the bed.  Her hair was loose and wild, her face flushed.

"Well, I'm guessing some things are going to change due to the fact that we had sex.  What are the possible changes?"

"Eric, neither one of us meant for this to happen.  It doesn't have to change anything.  I was lonely and miserable last night, you have been lonely, we drank to much; end of story."  Michala was trying hard to be logical about the whole thing. Her head was still a little woozy and she really wasn't feeling very logical but was doing her best. "There isn't anyone you have to worry about, well you know, about knowing about this?"   Shinta was going to have a field day with this one.

"I actually have a girlfriend," He looked down and rubbed his eyes as he said, "she's going to kill me."  It was obvious he was getting upset.

Michala, now dressed, looked up in horror.  "A girlfriend?  Eric, I am supposed to be your friend.  My god, why didn't you tell me? If nothing else, last night?"  She saw how upset he was and pulled him by the hand to the bed to sit down.

He went as he was pulled and said,"I'm sorry Michala.  I should have told you."  he shook his head sobbing both about Michala and Anika.  He had loved last night and in a way he loved Michala, but he had a girlfriend who he had just cheated on in a major way and he cared for Anika very deeply.

"It's okay.  I - I am not worried about me.  You don't have to tell her if you don't want to.  I won't say anything."  Michala tried to assure him.

He looked up at her and suddenly felt an energy surge begginning to build and he tried to clam hismelf down and said,"I think it'd be best for you to keep a decent distance right about now.  I don't know if I can control the energy right now.  I'm sorry.  You'd really be able keep what we did a secret?"

"If that is what you needed,"  She said soothingly. She frowned for she had been right, if his emotions were riled, the energy built. There was a direct connection to at least andreline if not another neurochemical.  "Eric, can you ground the energy?  Send it through a safe conduit, just as lightening strikes the tallest tree?"

He thought and asked,"Probably.  What do i use though?"

Michala laughed nervously.  Her  emotions were out of wack here and she forced them down to think as the medical officer.  "You are the engineer.  There must be grounding conduits all over the ship?"

He thought and said,"Please get on the bed while I try something."

Michala did as he directed, sitting in the center.  She was interested to see this anyway.  She had to smile though, it was the bed that had cause a portion of the problem.  She wasn't sorry for last night, or she wouldn't have been had he been unattached.  He had never mentioned dating to her?

He put his arms to the floor and crouched on the floor.  "I'm goign to let it out slwoly isntead of in one large burst."  he concentrated hard and felt the energy begin to flow out of him and into the floor via his hands.  It was working and it was surprising even him.

Michala felt the hair on her arms rise in response.  It was an odd sensation as was seeing her freind seem to glow for a long moment.  Then he was done and he looked a little pale.

Michala found her tricorder amongst her things she had yet to put on.  She ran it over him.  "How do you feel now?"

He let out a breathe and said,"I'm exhausted.  This is not a pleasant exhaustion though."

"Well it seems to have worked.  Let me take these readings to my lab and analyze them and then I will come back here.  I have an idea that may get you back on duty."  She smiled and hugged him without thought.  She sat down and pulled on her boots.

He looked to her and said,"You know, I enjoyed last night.  I am sorry I cheated on my girlfriend though.  Am I forigven by you at least?"  That would lighten his burden a little bit if she did."

Michala moved a put a hand on his cheek. She kissed his lips very softly. "From me, you have no complaints and no need to ask forgiveness." She turned and strode out of his quarters, ignoring the strange look from the security guard outside them.

He smiled as she left and knew he had to talk to Anika about this.

-----
Lt. Eric Odin,
and
Dr. Andree Dothan (Lt. J.G.)
-----

Andree poured over the reports from Michala from the Trill Hall of Records, and the tests performed on Lt. Odin.

While the results were in his hand, he still had no explanations. He decided to speak with Eric, about what he had found so far.

*** Lt. Eric Odin's Quarters ***

Andree pressed the chime control on the doorframe, and waited for a response.

Eric went to the door and opened it look at Andree with a smile, but his eyes showed that he had been lacking sleep. He then said,"Please come in."

Taking the cue, Andree entered, and followed Eric to the living area, pulling a chair away from the dining area, so he could face Eric on the couch.

"Well, I have been able to determine that for some reason, Odin seems to be storing up electrical energy, which needs to be discharged periodically, and the storing and discharging causes some fluctuations in his size, right down to the cellular level. on the other hand, I still haven't the foggiest notion where this energy comes from, or how you are able to control it, bit I am working on it."

He smirked and asked,"Do you know anything about my symbiots former hosts?"

"I hadn't gotten into researching that yet, but as long as I'm here, Why don't you tell me?"

"All of the former hosts were involved in fighting in some way. One of them was a martial artist who had secret talents that were never revealed to anyone else, but the proceeding hosts. This how I can fight so well and have nearly mastered the ability to shoot these electrical discharges, from the memory of one of the former hosts."

"Interesting. So, that would explain a few things... but it still remains to be determined where this energy is coming from."

"That is true. The main mystery."

"Well, I think I should be going now. I need to see if Michala has made any progress with here research in the Trill Hall of Records"

"Okay, thanks for stopping by."

And with that, Andree stood up, and replaced his chair at the dining area, before heading out the door. *hopefully Michala has come up with something,* he thought, as he walked down the hall

He smiled and was glad at least he wouldn't be bored while in confinement.

"Unpleasent news"
Lt Mike O'Grady
Lt Michalea Lynn

Michala finished the tests results and was pleased to see that there may be a way to bleed off the stored energy in the symbiot. It would mean basically grounding the cells and bleeding the energy away. She looked down at her scheduled appoints for her shift and saw she had a session with Mike before she started shift. She would have to let Eric know after the session.

She entered Mike's office feeling a little tired and drained, but otherwise in a good mood. She waited until he was free and entered his quarters with a smile. "Greetings Counselor."

Mike looked up and set down his coffee, "Well I didn't have to send out a search party."

Gesturing to a chair he sat across from her, "so how have you been?"

"Fine. Everything is fine. I am doing well in my department. I am making friends. Everything is ship shape." She said with a grin.

He raised an eyebrow, "that's good, but if everything's fine, why are you here?"

She grinned, "I thought I should at least say hi to my favorite counselor rather then cancel again." She sat back in the chair and took a deep breath. "I put the kids on a shuttle today, headed for Deiran's ship."

Mike sat back and nodded, "oh, how are you holding up?"

"It was hard. I am not going to lie. I mean, I know they are not physically mine, but emotionally they feel like it." She frowned a little. "But, they should be with him."

"Have you two discussed a visitation schedule, like they come to the galaxy to see you from time to time?"

"No, Deiran doesn't exactly know they are coming without me." She admitted.

"So you're staying here?"

"Yes! I am. I suppose eventually Deiran will just have me transferred, but for now, I pulled my request." She replied.

He looked at her, "You think he would be that controlling?"

"Don't you?" She answered softly, her eyes flying up to look at his face for response.

"I do. But you can refuse a transfer, you knwo that right?" He met her gaze and could tell something else was going on in her head, "you look like you're coming down with something?"

"I know I can. I am just not looking forward to the resulting fireworks." She replied. "I am just tired. I - I didn't get much sleep last night." She blushed and looked back down at her hands.

That got both of his eyebrows raised, "oh?"

"It is nothing. I just .... well I just stayed up late. Didn't feel like sleeping without the babies there." She answered, not meeting his gaze.

He looked at her, "I can tell when you're hiding something, you won't look at me, what happened last night Michalea?"

Michala sighed. "I didn't go back to my quarters last night. And now, things are truly in a mess. But it is okay, will deal with it."

"Well why don't you tell me what happened, and we can go from there?"

Michala paused for a moment. "I stopped by Eric Odin's quarters. We have talked about him before?" She asked.

Mike nodded, "yeah he's a friend of yours." He made the standard go ahead gesture with his hands.

"Well, right now, he is a patient. But I stopped by as his friend and not his doctor. We had dinner. He had some trill drink that I tried and well it was a little potent." Michala flushed. "I don't remember a whole lot after that, but I woke up there early this morning."

That got his attention, one did not need to connect the dots, "Well.. the question is....... where does this leave the two of you?"

"He has a girlfriend and.. he is my patient." Michala said with a frown. "I didn't know about the girlfriend. Though last night, I am not sure it would have mattered."

"I take it you were a little intoxicated?"

Michala laughed nervously. "That would be an understatement. Either the drink was stronger then I expected, or I don't handle alchoho well. I had never had it."

Mike nodded, "well you and Eric need to sit down and hammer some things out, about what happened, how to deal with this, as for his girlfriend, well that's not something we can deal with."

"I told him nothing changed. He was most upset. I mean, he didn't mean for anything to happen and neither did I. I don't see how there is anything to hammer out." She said, not liking his response.

"Good." Mike said, "when something like that happens, there are two reactions, some jusst bolt, that's not the smartest, you did the smarter of the two, talk things out right away."

Michala nodded. "Besides, he is my patient. That is my first priority right now, especially since his situation is not good."

Mike just nodded, she wouldn't discuss his condition with him, mch like he wouldn't discuss her contidtion with anyone even Rayna.

"So anyways, that is my world. I am alone at last. Free to make mistakes and already making them." She laughed lightly.

"This sounds more like a small error, that you have taken steps to fix, as opposed to a true mistake."

It felt huge this morning." She quipped.

Mike chuckled, "I won't reply, but we could begin exchanging sly commentary all day."

Just then his desk com chirped. He ignored it.

Michala laughed. "So tell me, am I certifiably healthy and stable now?"

"Stable yes healthy, I'd say making greater steps then the shy woman I first met who....."

His desk com chirped again, this time with a voice, "sickbay to Lt O'Grady..."

Michala raised an eyebrow. "You might want to take that, they wouldn't voice page you unless it were important."

Mike tapped the console, "Lt O'Grady here, go ahead."

If this wasn't important someone would be in a lot of ytrouble.

"Sir, sickbay here, uhh Lt O'Grady is here, she was injured on the last away mission."

Michala didn't even pause. "Go, I will see myself out."

"Thanks." He managed to get out before he hit the door and almost broke in to a run.

"Forget This!"
By Lt. Bruce MaxWell
Chief Helmsman

Bruce handed over his datapad of his command shift over to the Ensign. Nothing to report, all prety routine. Bruce, saw the releif come in and he headed of the Bridge He shook his head, everything that has happened has brought his stress levels up so high. He walked down the corridor, He thought he still had so much to do.

He then thought about how he felt like an ass for suggesting normal starfleet procedures on how to deal with Ensign Tarsonis. The Capatian just looked at Bruce like he was an Jackass. He couldnt get that look out of his head, that and he felt that whole incedint was why he didnt get his next pip.

He then realized he had been wanting to get Lt. Gustavason and Lt.Jg Crowe together and just relax. He headed into his quarters. All was quiet, he sat down and composed a message to the two of them:

To Lt. Ragnald Gustavason, Lt.Jg. Anika Crowe:

I am letting the two of you know that in one hour I will be wanting the both of you to meet me in Ten-Forward for a personal evaluation. Otherwise I am calling this evaluation to have a few drinks and get too know my best helmsman. I have been wanting to do this for awhile, now is my chance. Come dressed comfortably and have your drinking faces and stories ready.

Lt. Bruce MaxWell
Chief Helmsman

Bruce then stood up, and went to change his clothes. He hadnt dressed comfortably in awhile. He headed out his quarters and headed to Ten-Forward. He smiled carrtying a bottle of old scotch. This will be good, I know it will.

"A Night Together"
Lt Eric Odin
Lt(jg) Anika Crowe

Eric had been scrambling around trying to get everything ready for dinner with Anika tonight. He had the table all set and the food would be ready soon. He had cooked some chicken and rice up. He set the bottle of actual wine on ice. He then set two wine glasses out for them and made sure the candle was good. He had the lighter handy for when she did come. He stood and made sure he was dressed alright and found he was. He sighed and then waited.

***

Anika Crowe checked the mirror one last time. You're fine, she told herself. Relax. She smoothed the long skirt she wore one more time, a nervous gesture that she'd picked up the first time she was forced to wear a dress. The backless top she wore was a nice design she'd found in the replicator database. Hopefully Eric would like what she'd chosen to wear.

With a final nervous glance at the mirror, she turned toward the door. She wasn't used to the heels she'd decided to wear. Regulation duty boots had slight heels, but not like what she'd replicated for the night. At least she wasn't wobbling.

The trip through the corridors was uneventful, though she did attract a number of stares and one wolf whistle. With her hair pulled up, she was even taller than normal. Nearly two meters.

Butterflies fluttered in her belly as she stepped in front of Eric's door. She pressed the chime. Why was she so nervous? She'd spent time with Eric before. What was making her a nervous wreck this time? Maybe it was the anticipation of what may happen, especially after the last photo session...

The door slid open and Anika smiled. "Hi Eric," she said.

He smiled and saw what she was wearing and said, "Hi there. You look absolutely radiant. Please come in." he gestured into his quarters where the lights had been dimmed and he had also lit the candle as soon as he heard the chime. He then said, "That dress really looks great on you and your hair looks great up or down." He then walked over to the table a pulled out a chair for her and asked, "Would you like to take a seat?"

Anika blushed at Eric's compliments. "Thank you," she said softly, taking the seat he offered to her. "The food smells wonderful. The candle makes it cozy in here too." The butterflies were going nuts. She gave him a smile. She just hoped she didn't look too nervous.

He smiled to her and pushed in her seat. He then said, "I'll go get the food." He came back and dished out equal proportions. He then set the remaining food back on the stove and poured them both glasses of wine. he sat down and said, "I hope you'll like the food." He was incredibly nervous too, he didn't want to show it. He couldn't tell if she was, but he guessed she was. He then said, "You take the first bite. I want your honest opinion though."

The food looked good. It smelled good. Anika picked up the fork, glancing between Eric and her plate. She scooped up a bite and tasted. "Very good," she said. "I like the flavoring. It's very nice, Eric."

She continued to eat the food on her plate, alternating between it and the glass of wine. It was very good food. And, much better than the light meals she'd been replicating for herself between shifts on the bridge and training time in the Holodeck. It was nice to actually sit down with someone and share a nice meal. She glanced up from her food, and smiled at Eric. It was nice to share a meal with someone who seemed genuinely interested in her.

He smiled to her and finished his bite and took a good sip of his wine. he then said, "I've missed you very much, Anika. I feel as though a part of me leaves every time I see you go. That is the honest truth."

Anika felt her face get hot. She smiled, hoping he didn't notice the sudden rush of color to her face. "I've missed you too," she said softly. "I was starting to wonder if everything was alright. Of course, every time I never could get a spare moment to say anything to you. It's so nice to see you again, to spend time with you. This is a lovely dinner, Eric."

He smiled and decided not to mention the color that had rushed to her face. He then said, "I thank you. Then it is befitting of someone as lovely as you."

"This is good wine," she said. "Where did you find it in our replicated world?"

"I bought it from a merchant who was a friend of a friend. Guaranteed authenticity. It is good," he said in agreement as he sipped some more.

Anika finished off the last of her glass of wine. She looked around the cabin. The place seemed nicely decorated. She smiled. "So, what have you been doing with yourself lately? Since our last photo session?"

"I have just been doing normal stuff. I have been training hard, which is what got me in confinement in the first place and that's about it. Did i ever tell you I owned a fleet?"

Anika laughed. She picked up the wine bottle and poured herself a little more wine. "A fleet of what?" she giggled.

He finished his and poured some more for himself and said, "A fleet of starships. My own personal fleet of them."

Anika steadied her glass so her fits of giggles didn't send the wine spilling all over Eric's furniture. "A fleet of starships? What do you do with a fleet of starships? I don't know what I'd do with one starship, let alone a fleet of them."

"I employ people who would otherwise not be, but let's change the subject." he moved closer to her and said, "You are far more beautiful than any star or nebula I could ever see."

Anika knew she was blushing. She looked away, a smile clear on her face. "Thank you," she said softly. "Though, I think you're exaggerating a little. I can't possibly be more beautiful than the Vech-Ghane nebula."

He shook his head and said, "You dwarf it by far. Then again you dwarf all other beauty with your own." he took a good gulp of his wine and gave her some more as well as himself and said, "This is good wine."

Anika took a deeper drink of her wine once Eric had topped it off, hoping that she could hide from his compliments behind the glass. She knew she was bright red. "Thank you," she said softly, not really sure what to say. "The wine is very good."

He smiled and took one more sip of wine as he took her glass from her gently and set them both down. He then moved close to her and planted a deep loving kiss on her lips.

At first the kiss was a surprise, but a combination of the wine and how nice it felt calmed the voice in Anika's head. She let her arms wrap around Eric as she returned the kiss.

He put he his hand to her cheek as he continue to kiss her. He as loving being able to show her how much he loved her at least physically.

As the kiss broke slightly, Anika smiled. Her head felt light and her body was tingling all over. She let her lips brush against Eric's again. "That was very nice too," she said with a giggle.

He nodded and said, "Yes, I thought so too." He then began to kiss her neck slowly and then looked her in the eyes and conveyed true love and said, "I love you."

Anika's smile grew to where it nearly split her face in two. She pressed her lips against Eric's, her body melting into his. She couldn't believe this was happening. She really never imagined anything like this would ever happen to her.

He moved his hands to her lower back and began to massage as he intensified the kiss. Their bodies were now right next to each other.

This time seemed so much more wonderful than the first time they'd kissed. But, as her mind paused briefly to think about the kiss in the holodeck, she knew that this one had to be truly amazing to be better than the first. His hands working at her back were wonderful. Their lips and bodies were pressed tight together. Anika's arms had circled around Eric's neck and pulled him closer, and now they were on the couch entwined like an Andorian chaka knot.

He continued to kiss her and work on her back. He moved his hands up and down her back massaging gently.

As Eric's hands worked magic on her back, Anika was suddenly very happy she'd chosen to wear a backless top for the evening. His hands against her bare skin felt amazing. Her head felt light and her body slightly clumsy. Fortunately, she and Eric were holding each other tight.

He moved his hands beneath her top as he continued to massage all around her back. He continued to kiss as well slipping his tongue into her mouth.

Anika gasped as Eric's hand slipped beneath the front of her shirt. His fingers felt like they were leaving trails of molten fire on her skin. She returned the kiss passionately, entwining her tongue with his. She trailed her fingernails along his back, trying not to dig them in too hard. She couldn't believe the feelings she was feeling.

He continued to massage her bare skin with his fingers. He also entwined his tongue with hers intensifying the kiss even more. He had never felt so good in his life and he knew it was all because of Anika.

Anika could hear the blood pounding in her ears, and the sound of her own breathing, now coming in heavy gasps, echoed loudly in her head. The kiss broke briefly as they both sucked in large gulps of air. Anika rolled her head back, so Eric could get at her neck.

Eric did just that kiss and sucking every other kiss all over her neck still massaging her back with his hands in the back of her top.

As Eric's hand slipped from under her shirt and back to her back, Anika mentally cried out for it to go back. Eric's hands were magical. As she shifted as he continued working along her neck, a lock of hair fell down into her face. Their clutching was probably doing wonders for her skirt, but the trail of kisses across her throat and neck made Ani forget about it quick enough. She would probably be a rumbled mess by the time they were finished, but she didn't care. The feelings Eric was bringing out all over her body more than made up for it.

He almost heard her cry to move his hands back, but did so noticing she enjoyed it considerably more and he continued to kiss all over her neck as well.

Anika almost laughed as Eric's hands returned to the front of her top. As his hands worked over her belly, never quite venturing further up her body, she heard herself let out a soft moan. She didn't know if it was his hands or what he was doing to her neck, but she liked both. This is really, really nice, she told herself. I think I could get used to this. She brought her hands up and gently played with the hair at the nape of his neck. The feelings he was sending shooting through her body were amazing beyond anything she had ever felt before. I really could get used to this, she thought again.

He continued to work his hands and kiss all over her neck and after hearing the moan he only intensified it very glad she was enjoying herself.

Anika trailed a fingernail down Eric's spine, her mind quickly losing coherency. The wine mixed with the feelings emerging from Eric's touch were more than she'd ever felt in her life. With a sigh, she surrendered herself to whatever Eric may wish to do to her.

Eric moved his hand to the hem of Anika's shirt and began to pull upward. As he reached her arms, he looked to her hoping to find an approving look.

Anika felt the cool air against her warm skin as Eric lifted her top higher. She knew what was coming next and it thrilled her beyond anything she'd ever felt before. It wouldn't be the first time she'd been naked in front of a man, Alexa Casey's wedding had seen to that, but it would be the first time like this. It was a special moment, one she would remember always. She looked into his eyes, and nodded once.

He looked straight back into hers as he lifted her shirt completely off and kissed her deeply once more. He then proceeded to remove the rest of her clothing smoothly and gently.

Anika bit her lip as her top disappeared down onto the floor. As Eric's hands moved toward her skirt, she watched them with anticipation. He deftly unhooked the clasp and pushed the fabric away. The chill of the air touching her suddenly bare flesh was amazing. As his fingers hooked the waistband of her underwear. The thin fabric slipped easily down her thighs as Eric expertly finished undressing her. Anika pressed her naked body against Eric, her lips finding his.

Eric pressed back as his hands went to her now bare chest as he kissed her with a deep passion.

Anika's nipples reacted instantly to Eric's touch. It felt like jolts of electricity were coursing through her body. She reached up and pulled the now useless hair clip out and tossed it onto the nearby table. The thing hadn't been keeping her hair in place for the last fifteen minutes anyway. With the hassle of her hair out of the way, Anika wrapped her arms around Eric falling into another passionate embrace.

He resumed everything he had been doing as well, glad she was enjoying it as much as she was.

Anika's body felt like it was on fire. Eric's hands across her back and breasts were sending tingles through every nerve ending. It was like miniature fireworks danced in her vision. Her head was light and breathing heavy. Ani couldn't believe it was possible to feel the way she was feeling. She knew she'd had a lot of wine earlier. How of what she was feeling was because of it? As another array of fireworks went off through her body, she gave up on the thought and allowed her tongue to dance with Eric's once more.

He broke the kiss slowly and removed his shirt for her, revealing an array of finely toned muscles. Eric then removed his pants and boxers, which gave Anika a clear indicator about how he felt about what had been going on. He kissed her again now as he moved them over to the bed.

As Eric removed his shirt, Anika watched his hands. His movements were smooth and determined. As his hands shifted to his trousers, she wanted to look away. A part of her, though, couldn't turn her eyes away. She watched as his pants were removed. And, then came the boxers.

Anika nearly gasped when the boxers dropped to the floor. The suddenly startled look at seeing a fully excited naked man up close and personal shifted into a demure smile. When Eric moved closer, his naked body pressing into hers, she wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him. Eric wrapped his arms around her and lifted and soon they were both moving toward the bed.

As she was laid back onto the bed, a brief moment of fear gripped her. Was she doing the right thing? Was making love to Eric tonight the best night? Was she ready for her first time? Looking up into Eric's eyes, she knew the answer was yes. How much of it was the lust she'd been building up through all their groping, she didn't know. But, she wanted this to happen tonight. It was right.

He looked deep into her eyes and was gentle when he entered her wanting her to hurt as little as possible with this. He made sure to massage her breasts while making slow gentle thrusts. He also kissed her off and on throughout the episode. After that was accomplished the rest for a night was basically a whirl of passionate sex.

***

Anika opened her eyes, a dull throb in her temples made itself known right away. She turned her head and saw Eric laying there, his body turned toward her, one arm draped over her hip the other disappearing beneath a pillow. She was still naked, as was he, but this morning it didn't matter.

She couldn't believe last night. Her first time, and it was beautiful. Eric had been very gentle and loving. He was the perfect man, her perfect man. She couldn't imagine anyone more wonderful in all her life.

He shifted slightly, his hand sliding down her thigh. He still slept though. They had consummated their relationship. Where this left them, she wasn't sure. After that night of sex, they were definitely committed to each other. She had to wonder if he would want her to move in with him, possibly marriage? It was too early for marriage. They'd just met really. But, six months down the road, who could predict? One step at a time, she told herself. Hopefully their sex would be as glorious as last night though...

Anika closed her eyes again, snuggling closer to Eric. She didn't have to be on duty for a number of hours yet. Might as well enjoy the afterglow.

******************************************************
Lt. jg Anika Crowe, Helmsman, USS Galaxy
ICQ# 2172851
******************************************************

by Rayna (Security) and Mike O'Grady (Counselor)

Rayna tried to act as if she didn't see her husband walk in. She felt stupid enough for getting hurt. This was the first time she ever got injured as to where she was put out of commission. She would soon find out how Mike would react to her getting hurt.

"Rayna." He sat next to her, "Are you ok?" Was his first question, he wouldn't fuss over her, ok he would try to keep it to a minimum.

"Hi, I'm fine." She knew that wasn't exactly true. She wasn't happy that she was going to be out for at least six weeks. She had no idea what she'd do with herself.

He frowned, "You sure, I heard it was pretty serious." Taking her hand he was gentle, knowing she would be kicking herself, "Anything I can do to help?"

"No, you're doing it now by not asking me what went wrong. Let's just say that I didn't take everything in consideration."

Mike let it stay at that, "so what did the doctor say exactly?"

"You know how Vulcans are." She shifted uncomfortably in her seat, "I'll be back to work in six weeks."

He raised an eyebrow, "6 weeks, maybe we could take the opportunity to take Nikki on a nice extended vacation, maybe Risa?"

"That would be nice. Maybe this is a blessing in disguise." She couldn't believe she actually said that.

He smiled, "She'd love the beaches there, nice and peaceful, and whatever physical therapy you have we can do as a part of vacation."

She looked around for the doctor and then looked back at him, "Thanks."

"You're welcome." He slipped an arm around her waist and kissed behind her ear gently, "I figured you need a long soak in a hot tub, and a good massage."

She was getting tired of sitting there. Soon Dr. Lemur came back over with a PADD in hand, "Here. I expect you to do these three times a day. Come back in six weeks and if it is better, I'll put you back on active duty." He didn't say bye but just walked away to tend to another patient.

Mike watched him walk away, "and that is why Vulcans make lousy counselors." Was his wry comment as they walked out of sickbay.

"He's a doctor not a counselor and a lousy one at that. His bedside manner could use some work." She looked at her torn clothing, "You didn't happen to bring anything for me to wear, did you?" She knew he didn't but she thought she'd ask anyway.

Mike shook his head, then removed his uniform jacket and draped it over her shoulders, "Best I can do.

"Thanks." She moved her arm and felt a tinge but not what she experienced earlier. She now knew what it felt like to be hit with a phaser and it wasn't something she'd want to feel again.

He noticed the twinge, but said nothing. "I got Nikki home, She doesn't know about this, But I'm sure she will soon enough." They walked in to the turbolift and Mike kissed her gently.

It felt good to be back from this mission and home, "Nikki doesn't really need to know about it. I don't see any reason to worry her. I don't want her waking up at night from dreams of mommy getting hurt or never coming back."

Mike nodded, "Yea, makes sense, plus we cover with this vacation, no one asks about why you aren't working, I'll talk to Commander Dallas."

"Good. I'm very protective over her, maybe too much but I'm a mother first." Life was hard enough on a child of a Starfleet officer.

"Hey, she's my daughter too, last thing I want to do is have her scared that mommy won't come home every away mission." He smiled, "Or maybe she'll figure everything out, she's a smart child, she managed to program the holodeck pretty well."

She nodded, "Yeah, I know. I have no idea where she got it from either."

"From her mother." Mike smiled, "She's already got your eyes."

Rayna couldn't help but still kick herself, "I'm starting to wonder."

"Hey," Mike looked right at her, their eyes locked on each other, "you made a miscalculation, welcome to reality, everyone makes mistakes, people get hurt, you know I've been in sickbay a few times since we've been going out, hell you had to drag me there once before, it was how we first met, at least that's what the doctors told me later."

She shook her head, "Yeah but it's different. I shouldn't make mistakes. It isn't in my job description."

Finally it was time to be blunt with her, he hated doing it, but sometimes he had to, "Welcome to being human Lt Lamar, humans make mistakes, however the smart ones learn from them."

"Alright, point taken." She managed a smile.

"And besides, if you were perfect all the time I'd wonder if you were an android or something." Due to the fact that the door had opened he dispensed with one of his usual jokes about their lovelife. "Now let's go get you changed, I left Nikki she was engrossed in some old TV program, what exactly is a pikachu and why is our daughter watching one."

She laughed, "I came upon it the other day. They are called Pokemon and there is a Pokemon trainer and this Poke..." She looked at him and could tell he still had no clue what she was talking about.

Mike shrugged, "well she likes it, and it's pretty benign so it don't hurt things, so she watches it. It keeps her interested. Plus she's working on a program for the holodeck, it's pretty complex. " They walked along and he continued to shift the discussion to normal life, "oh and she got in to the honors program on board."

"Good." She was proud of Nikki. Rayna began to slowly undress. Eventhough she couldn't see any evidence of an injury, she could feel it intramuscularly. The Doctor was right. It could have been worse. She supposed that she should be thankful for that.

Mike helped her undress, then got her to lay back on the bed as he began to use some of the healing points, she had taught him when they first got serious, "Tell ya what, after this you go take a hot bath, I'll take care of dinner."

"You're too good to me, you know that? I ought to get hurt more often." She looked at him, "NOT!"

He grinned, "This is it, you get hurt again, I'm giving you a squirt phaser." Tenderly he kissed her injured shoulder.

She laughed, "A squirt phaser?"

"Yeah one of the toys my dad hated my aunt for giving me as a child, my uncle however was the one who got me in to boxing." He put his hand on her shoulder and sat beside her, "Sometimes I wish you had a safer job on board." He confessed softly.

She said with a strong conviction, "Sometimes we don't get what we wish for. This is me, this is what I do. I couldn't see myself doing anything else."

Mike nodded, "I know, and I don't want you to change, but sometimes I worry too much." He shrugged, "it's in my job description."

She nodded in agreement, "I hear what you are saying. I will try to be more...careful next time."

He leaned in, "Though I much prefer to curl those toes of yours." Mike whispered with a sly grin.

"I'm afraid there will be no toe curling." She rubbed her shoulder, "At least for tonight."

He got her an ice pack, unbidden and rested it against her shoulder, knowing the cool ice would help the healing of her shoulder, "Well I wasn't planning on seducing you until tomorrow, I figure you get hurt, you get a night of rest." Her mood was better, he could see that now.

She had been on an adrenaline rush all day and was just coming down from it. For some reason, this mission had her riled up. Reality of how close she came to losing her arm or her life would soon enough hit her, " hopefully, there won't be a repeat performance."

"I don't think there will be a repeat." He looked at her and kissed her forehead then her lips, "if you wanted to talk about it, we could go over the scenario sometime in the holodeck."

"The problem is that we make the bridge too damn hard to get access to. I used the front door, so to speak. Besides that, I underestimated their intelligence. I didn't think that they would try to shoot to kill."

"Proves that just because they're bad guys doesn't mean they're stupid, the stupid bad guys are in action films."

She agreed, "True." She sighed, "Seth will never let me live this down. I think that big oaf enjoyed the fact that he saved my skin."

"He saved your life, I'll buy him dinner later."

"If that is what you call it. Vee got the easiest assignment, engineering. Seth should have taken that one and she should have stuck with me. Don't get me wrong, Vee is great but because of Seth's size, it's almost impossible for him to blend in...look inconspicuous. So, she should have traded with him. She's going to get noticed for this mission."

Mike nodded and laid beside her on the bed, "She's a good officer." Then he rolled to the side and looked at her profile, "Don't ever scare me like that again."

"I can't promise you that. My job comes with no guarantees. But I will try to be more careful. That is all I can promise."

He smiled and lifted his head to kiss her. "All I ever asked."

The mission tired her out and she was getting drowsy. She smiled back at him, "I think I'm going to sleep for a while. Maybe you and NIkki can get something to eat."

Mike smiled and pulled a blanket over her half nude body. "Rest up."

She mumbled "thanks" as she drifted off.

“Chosen Part III: The Valley Forge” Freelance Story

Ensign Drake Tarsonis
Helmsman, USS Galaxy

Drake and Wolfe walked off of the transporter pad onboard the USS Valley Forge. They saw a short, chubby and happy looking man standing there waiting for them. He had the rank of lieutenant on his red collar.

“Hello gentlemen! Captain Jerek Wolfe and Ensign Drake Tarsonis I presume?” said the man.

Wolfe and Drake both nodded yes and the man continued to smile. Drake began to think that there was something wrong with him if he was this happy.

“I’m Lieutenant Tyran Riddick, the second trombone. I’ll be showing you to your quarters,” said Riddick.

They both followed him into a turbolift up to deck five. He led Wolfe and Drake to crew quarters number 7.

“Due to is not having enough room on this ship, some people have to share bunks, and you two will have to,” said Riddick.

“That’s not a problem,” said Wolfe.

“Well, great! The lounge is on deck 8. Be ready in twelve hours,” said Riddick.

“Alright,” said Drake.

Wolfe and Drake walked into the bunk and it was a typical 23rd century bunk, a bunk bed, a table, and a couple of chairs. Drake noticed two 24th century add-ons, a food replicator, and a computer.

“Drake, I have to tell you something. Starfleet Command has offered me the USS Challenger, a Galaxy class starship. I was overjoyed at first, but then they told me that I had to leave my senior crew behind. I don’t know what to choose, what would you choose if you were in my shoes?” said Wolfe.

“Well, sir, the Challenger is a fine ship, but it depends on how you like it. If you want to keep your crew, then stay on the Lexington, but, if you want a better ship, a new crew and a whole new experience, then take the Challenger,” said Drake.

“I do want a whole new experience, and a better ship, but I’m still wondering about leaving my crew behind. What would you do if you were in my shoes?” said Wolfe.

“Well, personally, I’d take the Challenger, but, I’m not you,” said Drake.

“Thanks for your help, Drake. I’ll send a subspace message to Admiral Harker about my decision,” said Wolfe.

“What’s your decision?” asked Drake.

“You’ll see,” said Wolfe.

Wolfe stood up and went to the computer on the table. He sat down in front of it, and contacted Admiral Rigel Harker. He saw Harker pop on the screen and began talking.

“Admiral, I have made my decision, I’m going to take the Galaxy class ship, USS Challenger,” said Wolfe.

“Alright, Captain, I’ll notify Starfleet Command and we’ll put you on the crew roster. I’ll also notify Commander Lyle Jones that he is now the commanding officer of the USS Lexington. Congratulations Captain Wolfe, you now are in command of the USS Challenger NCC-71099, a Galaxy class starship. The Challenger will meet you at the Ferrell sector, after the concert,” said Admiral Harker.

“Thank you, sir, Captain Wolfe out.”

Drake wasn’t really surprised at Wolfe. He knew that Wolfe loved new experiences, but one thing that Drake knows Wolfe won’t do, is take admiralty so quickly. Drake considered Jerek one of his trusted friends, since he didn’t really know anyone yet, back on the Galaxy. He left all of his friends on the Exeter, and from what he had heard, it was destroyed.

“What are the details of the ship?” asked Drake.

“Well, I know that the Challenger is using an XIX bridge module,” said Wolfe.

“What’s that?” asked Drake.

“It’s sort of an upgrade to the original one. It is the bridge module the Enterprise-D had when it got destroyed,” replied Wolfe.

“Ohhh, I’ve seen that kind,” said Drake.

Wolfe continued to look at his padd, which contained the info. He looked and saw list of executive officers he could choose.

“I get to choose my first officer. Hmmmm, Commander Merechank, Commander Skyler, Commander Rigel, no. Lieutenant Commander Mark O’Neil!” said Wolfe.

“What? Who’s Lieutenant Commander Mark O’Neil?” asked Drake.

“I served with him onboard the Intrepid. We go a long way back Mark and me,” said Wolfe.

“Well? Are you going to choose him or what?”

“He seems to meet the right requirements. I’m choosing him,” said Wolfe.

Wolfe highlighted his name and sent a recorded message to Admiral Harker about his choice of a first officer.

“We have to get down to the rehearsal hall, it’s time to rehearse for tomorrow!” said Wolfe.

They both grabbed their trumpet cases and ran to the turbolift. They went to the main cargo bay to practice. Drake saw Commander William Riker there as 1st trombone. They all jammed together as a band, and were amazing! They played jazz music, but Drake’s favorite was Night Train. Wolfe and Drake returned to their bunk and got some sleep.

**The Next Morning**

Drake woke up and realized that he had to get ready. He slept in and the concert started at 11:00 am, and it was 10:02 am. He took a quick sonic shower, got changed into his dress clothes and ate a quick breakfast. He saw Jerek sitting there all ready. Drake finished eating, got some gel and spiked his hair. He grabbed his trumpet case and they both ran to the turbolift, which went down to the lounge.

All of the instrument players were in position and played all of their music pieces. The critics said that it was the best band yet. The concert was finished and Wolfe and Drake up to their bunk to pack up. They packed up and the tactical officer from the bridge came up on the communicator.

“Captain Wolfe, the USS Challenger has come to pick you up.”

“See you next shore leave, Ensign. Maybe by that time, you’ll be a lieutenant junior grade! It’s been good playing with you, Drake. Good luck on the Galaxy,” said Wolfe.

“Thank you, sir. Good luck on the USS Challenger,” said Drake.

Wolfe left, and after fifteen minutes, the Challenger left. Drake saw many different ships arrive, including the federation flagship, the USS Enterprise.

**The Bridge**

Hicks was sitting in his blue command chair.

“Have all of the ships arrived to pick up the rest of the players?” asked Hicks.

“Yessir, all ships,” responded the communications officer.

“Helm, plot a course for Deep Space 9, we have to drop off a couple of crewmembers,” said Hicks.

“Aye, Admiral, plotting a course.”

Before the ship could go into warp, an Orion battlecruiser decloaked and began firing.

“Red alert! Communications, send a message to the nearest federation ship, saying that we are under attack and we need assistance!” yelled the Admiral over all of the explosions.

Drake stepped onto the bridge and saw an Orion ship on the viewer. Just at that moment, the battlecruiser fired a torpedo and it caused an explosion, which killed the helmsman. Drake ran and took over the seat. He piloted and maneuvered the ship and dodged a lot of torpedoes, but the Orion ship hit the Valley Forge once more, before ceasing fire and hailing the ship.

“Sir, the enemy ship is hailing us.”

“On screen,” ordered Hicks.

An image of a tall man with dark brown spiked hair, and resembled Drake somewhat. Drake recognized the face, it was his brother, Sean Tarsonis.

“This is Supreme Commander Sean Tarsonis of the OBC Duncan. Surrender your ship or we will-“ said Sean before he stopped to notice Drake.

“Sean, why are you doing this?” asked Drake.

“Shutup you maggot. You were a loser, and I see you still are. We will annihilate you,” said Sean.

The viewer went back to seeing the ship, and the Duncan began firing on the Valley Forge once again.

“Sir, we’ve lost shields!” yelled the tactical officer.

“Sir, there’s another ship coming in! It’s the Challenger!”

The Galaxy class starship began firing on the Orion battlecruiser and destroyed it.

“Sir, I’m detecting a beam in onboard our ship in the main cargo bay, and the Challenger is hailing us.”

“On screen,” ordered Hicks.

Wolfe appeared on the screen.

“Thank you for your assistance Captain. We are now able to travel back to DS9 to repair the damage,” said Hicks.

“Glad to be of assistance, Admiral,” said Wolfe.

The screen went back to space and the Challenger left the system. Drake stood up and looked at Hicks.

“Sir, I’d like to investigate the cargo bay,” said Drake.

“Alright, Ensign, you investigate,” said Hicks.

Drake grabbed a phaser and went to the cargo bay. He walked in the doors and saw Sean and another man standing there. They both had knives in their hands and ran towards Drake. Drake fired the phaser and the other man and he tumbled to the ground. Sean hit the phaser out of Drake’s hand and stabbed the knive into Drake’s back. Drake fell to the ground in pain and secretly grabbed the dead man’s knife.

“You know what Drake? Mother was a bitch, and loved seeing her suffer when I killed her!” said Sean as he began to laugh.

Drake stood up with his last ounce of strength and he jabbed the knife into Sean’s throat. Sean fell to the ground, dead and blood began leaking on the ground. Drake fell to the ground. He felt everything slipping away, and he fainted. The next thing he saw was Deep Space 9’s sickbay. He saw Doctor Julian Bashir standing there waiting for him to wake up.

“You’re lucky to be alive, my friend. The wound was pretty bad,” said the doctor.

“Thank you, doctor,” said Drake.

“No problem, just get some rest after. You will have pains in your back for the next week, but after that it should be fine,” said the doctor.

Drake saw Captain Price walk into the sickbay.

“What happened, ‘mate?” asked the captain.

“I had a confrontation with my brother, sir. He stabbed me in the back, so I stabbed him in the throat. My brother was wanted for almost every single crime in the book, and I finally ended it. I finally avenged my mother,” said Drake as he sat up.

“I’m sorry to hear that, ‘mate. Is there anything I could do for you?” asked Captain Price.

“No, thank you, sir. I’m actually quite happy, but thank you for asking, sir,” said Drake.

“Alright then, I’ll see you on the Galaxy, ‘mate,” said Price.

“Aye, aye, sir,” said Drake.

Price left and went back to the Galaxy. Drake gathered up his stuff and walked to the transporter room to beam aboard the Galaxy. He beamed aboard the Galaxy, went to his quarters, lay down and went to sleep.

**THE END**

"Mind Quarrel"

Ensign Drake Tarsonis
Helmsman, USS Galaxy

Drake walked off of the transporter pad onboard DS9. He enjoyed the stations and would go to Quark's bar to get a drink of tomato juice. He enjoyed the stuff, and would like to have a glass of it. He was happy for Captain Jerek Wolfe, receiving the USS Challenger as a token of Starfleet's appreciation. Drake wondered what kind of ship he would command, and mybe wondered if he would stay on this ship for so long, that he would eventually become exeuctive officer. Drake was thinking way too far ahead of himself. Drake was working hard to get to the rank of Lieuteant jg and was hoping that he would get the rank at the end of the Galaxy's next adventure.

He looked outside of the window to see three ships docked: the USS Galaxy, the USS Independance: a Niagara class, and the USS Richenbauker: a Springfield class ship. He walked towards the bar wondering what might be the fate of those ships and their crews. Maybe the Independance would get destroyed in a battle with the borg, maybe the Richenbauker will discover why and how the Organians disappeared nealy a century in the past. Maybe the Galaxy will discover a wormhole to bring Voyager back from the Delta Quadrant, but Drake couldn't believe a word of it. Drake didn't believe in fate, after what happened to Jade.

He saw Quark there serving drinks, and Drake realized, he wasn't thirsty anymore. Drake looked out that window at the stars. Drake was told when he was a child, all of the loved ones that you lose, will become stars, and they will watch over you forever.

Drake decided to switch the subject going on in his head. He had realized that he had to make friends onboard the Galaxy. He was sick and tired of not having anyone to talk to, or tell his secrets to. He was aquanted to Lt. Commander Brandis, but that wasn't good enough. Drake had to make friends before it was too late. He briefly met Lt. Richeson, but it was a very brief meeting. He wanted to make friends, he was sick and tired of being quiet. He needed to have fun, with a friend, a friend that he didn't have, yet.

He stood by the window again and looked at the USS Galaxy. He thought it was a beautiful ship. He was glad that he was accepted, and got the welcome he didn't expect, a warm one. He hated the Exeter. When he was stationed on the USS Exeter, the people tortured you for the first 2 months, thne they left for for awhile to see how you did. If you did good, they would accept you, if you did average or below, they would do horrible things to you. Drake thought back to his friend, Ensign Kyle Lopez. They tortured him because he didn't always take the initiative. Of course, that's what you should do, but if you don't, you shouldn't have to get tortured for it. Especially if you had a lot of problems. Lopez family died in the Borg incursion, his mother, his father, his two little sister, his baby brother, and his fiancee. After all of the torturing, Lopez committed suicide. Drake could vever forget it because he was the one who dicovered the body.

Drake shed a tear and it strolled down his cheek and splattered on the ground. Drake thought: Is this some game? Is it something that God gets a kick out of? For all we know he could kill people for his own amusement. Drake was hostile toward God at the time. Drake had lost too much: His father, his sister, his mother, his fiancee, his friend, and last but not least, his brother. Drake did love his brother, he did forgive him for what he had done, but he had to kill him. It was Drake's only way to survive, and if he had let Sean go on, he would have taken the life of another officer.

Drake has attempted suicide before, and has been thinking about it for the past week. He knows it isn't the right thing to do, but he will if it gets to bad. Drake had realized now, he needed help. Counselling, and a lot of help. He hated God, because he thought that God made life a game for his amusement. Drake shed another tear. He wanted it to all end, but not with him dying, with him breaking free, and for him to tell God to shove that game he calls life up his ass, if that what God thinks life is.

Drake turned around to go back to the Galaxy and get some rest, he needed to get away from it all, so he would take a nap, and then, play his trumpet to get his mind off of things, then he would make an appointment with a counselor onboard. Drake walked to the transporter pad and beamed aboard the Galaxy. He went to his quarters, lay down and went to sleep.