"Crowded Solitude"
by Lt. Xayella Tagliesh, Chief Science Officer
Ensign Tchalla Mel'Chir, Science Officer [NPC]
Lt. Sam, Operations Manager [NPC]
and Stencil, Bartender and Philosopher [NPC]

Location: Various locations aboard ship
Stardate 57906.20, 13h25

***

Xayella made a good show of being engaged in a detailed review of the science department's performance in the previous day's simulation, but her mind was utterly occupied with something other than duty, and it certainly was not what she would have thought herself pondering: Matt Salinger. She'd carried out her scheme using precisely planned strategies executed to perfection, and used the right amount of cunning and seduction to lure him in, but in the end, he'd proven far more willing than she'd expected. In short, she'd overestimated Matt's resistance to her advances, and not having a back-up plan to account for such an eventuality, she found herself in a corner and fled like a frightened amateur at games of manipulation. Xayella Tagliesh, for once, had been completely out of her element.

But, she had modified her tactics upon return to her quarters and was ready for another round with the good captain, and if sex was what he wanted from her, he wouldn't get it, but she would give him the illusion that it was still a prospect. Before she could approach Matt again, however, she would have to do better to guard her emotions and keep her eyes open for traps he would no doubt lay out for her, as he did last night. What better way to make a woman vulnerable than to hit on particularly sensitive topics as he did?

She would not be so easily affected next time and truly would place herself in the position of control. Matt Salinger was an unconventional sort of captain, and if unconventional was what he wanted, he would get it back tenfold. After all, what was more unconventional than a woman leading a man around by the balls? Xayella chuckled and pressed the datapad to her chest. "Perfect..."

"Sir?" asked the soft voice next to the chief science officer strolling down the corridor. The ensign quirked a white eyebrow and quickly chided herself for pushing into the affairs of a superior officer. "I'm sorry, Lieutenant Tagliesh. I saw you walking. I didn't realize you were busy. I was just...I have those reports you'd asked me to organize. Our stellar database is now complete...or as complete as it can be."

Xayella cleared her throat and sobered her features as she regarded Ensign Mel'Chir. The last thing she needed was to scare the timid creature with one of her twisted grins. Then, of course, she'd have Commander Lyrr on her case... Xayella involuntarily sneered and snatched the datapad from Tchalla's blue hand. Oh, she really needed to have Matt tie that bitch onto a leash.

"Thank you, Ensign," Xayella said after a quick review of the padd's contents. "Everything appears to be in order, and you were prompt as well. I think you're going to work out much better than that Ensign Rax. She really is an inept simpleton."

"Yes, sir," Tchalla said with a nod. It wouldn't do to contradict lieutenant. "I used all the data in our computer, and requested downloads as soon as we're within range of a starbase. I've included pointers where that data should go, and it'll automatically update once the new data is added. It was a tricky program, but Lieutenant Sam helped me with most of it."

Xayella sighed and shook her head slowly at Tchalla. "Ensign Mel'Chir, may I give you a piece of advice that may help you excel in your career in Starfleet?"

Tchalla nodded. "Of course," she said, looking up at the human woman. "I welcome any advice you can give me."

Xayella stopped in the middle of the corridor and turned to face Tchalla. "First lesson: Always take the credit for any notable task when the opportunity presents itself, even if it's not rightfully yours. Starfleet doesn't reward mediocrity. Those that stand out from the rest are the ones who get those extra pips on their collar. Remember that and you'll go far, Ensign."

"Yes, Lieutenant," the young andorian said with a nod. "I will remember that. While we were working, Lieutenant Sam mentioned that he'd served with you before. He speaks very highly of you, sir. If you would believe it, almost as highly as he speaks of Commander Maddox."

"I swear, there's something wrong with that android's programming," she murmured as she started down the corridor again. "And what do you think of me, Ensign? Don't worry, this is completely off the record."

"I don't have much to base an opinion on yet, Lieutenant," Tchalla said, "but as far as I can tell you are an exemplary scientist and a good commanding officer. You do have a shorter fuse, but I grew up on Andoria."

"So, I imagine my tantrums are mild compared to what you're used to." Xayella shrugged and added, "But it is not a matter of being temperamental. I simply cannot tolerate mistakes that should not otherwise be made. We are Starfleet officers, an organization of intellectually elite individuals. We have a reputation to uphold, and that is why I have little patience for clumsy idiots."

"I will do my best to keep from being clumsy," Tchalla said with a grin. She was silent for a moment, then looked up at Xayella. "Do you know what our first mission will be? I'm hoping for a planetary survey. The planetary sciences are my favourites."

"I'm not exactly privy to such information. But I imagine the Captain will inform us once he feels our assistance is required," she said sardonically.

"I heard our captain is something of a maverick," Tchalla said quickly. "Do you know if that's true? Ensign Hansen was saying that he reminded her of Captain James Kirk. Do you know if that's true? Is he like Captain Kirk?"

Xayella chuckled lowly. "I don't know for certain yet, but I think I'll be finding out sooner or later."

Tchalla nodded at that. "I think I saw him in the corridor earlier. He's...he's tall. But, I guess most people are for me. Is there anything you'd like me to do for the department now that that report is finished?"

"Yeah," Xayella said. "Modify the replicators to produce a decent mug of coffee." She smiled at Tchalla's confused expression. "A joke, Ensign. But I really would like you to catalogue the microbial specimens we have in a neat and orderly fashion. Ensign Rax did an unsatisfactory job on them. Everything is a mess, which is surprising since I was looking over her shoulder the entire time."

"Yes, sir," Tchalla said. "I'll take a look at them at once. And, if you do want strong coffee from the replicators, I'd suggest talking to Ensign Gainsborough. Rumour has it that she's the resident expert on the ship. I don't think she's ever without a mug of raktajino. If you like Klingon coffee, I've heard hers is the best around."

"Thank you. Perhaps if I can actually catch her, I might just do that. She's quite difficult to keep track of, especially when she's on her second mug." Xayella glanced down at the andorian girl and smiled at her tightly. "You're going to work out well, Ensign. Keep up the good work and I won't have to transfer you to another shift."

"Thank you, Lieutenant," Tchalla said. "I will do my best and I won't let you down."

"You better not," Xayella warned her with not a hint of playfulness in her tone or expression. "If you do, your time on this ship will be very burdensome." Her features transformed abruptly as a smile graced her lips. "Well, good day, Ensign," she said pleasantly, then departed down the connecting corridor.

Tchalla watched the chief science officer disappear down the side corridor and then shook her head. This was turning into an interesting ship to say the least. At least her letters to Chodar would be interesting.

***

Xayella always kept to herself off-duty, and on when she could manage it. Today, however, was proving to be particularly busy and finding a secluded spot apart from the other officers appeared nearly impossible. With a grumble, Xayella turned to leave the lounge, but was stopped short by a very distinct voice calling out her name. "I'm truly cursed," she muttered as she slowly shifted back around to watch Lieutenant Sam approaching her.

"Lieutenant," Sam said as he approached. "I was just sitting in the corner sampling a beverage the bartender referred to as a Grape Nehi. It is quite a satisfactory beverage. Perhaps you would wish to try one, Lieutenant."

"Oh, as much as I would love to, Ensign, I was just leaving."

"It is a quiet corner," Sam said. "And, I had intended to speak with you regarding some interdepartmental collaboration."

Xayella sighed, and certainly not in the mood to argue with a persistent android, she submitted. "Just one drink, and we discuss only work, is that clear?"

Sam gave a nod. "I understand perfectly, Lieutenant," he said. "My table is back over in this corner. What would you like to drink? Stencil has a large variety of beverages from which to choose."

"Well, can he make a passable cup of coffee?" Xayella asked. "Because if he can, I'll be indebted to him."

Sam cocked his head to the side while he processed the question and queried for an appropriate answer. "Uncertain," he finally said. "I have not yet sampled any of Stencil's coffees. He is a bartender of exceptional skill, and it would be logical to assume that he can make satisfactory coffee."

"Well, we'll find out, won't we?" Xayella moved the short distance to the bar and leaned over the edge of it. She shot a particularly appealing, young ensign an alluring smile and he returned it with a large ridiculous grin. Xayella to chuckle derisively and brushed him off. There were many handsome men on board, but upon initial assessment, they were all fools when it came to women, and she highly doubted any of them could handle her in bed. With a wistful sigh, Xayella waved over Stencil.

The bartender sauntered over. He was a Bolian, and obviously had an impeccable fashion sense. His clothing was expertly tailored and obviously expensive. "Well, hello there, Lieutenant," he said. "My name is Stencil. Now, how may I set you up?"

"Coffee," Xayella said succinctly. "I have been trying to get a decent cup of coffee since I first set foot on this ship, but those damn replicators keep materializing some sort of viscous repugnancy. Now, can you do better than that?"

Stencil beamed a smile at her. "Of course, I can," he said. "I wouldn't be in this business if I couldn't make a decent cup of joe. Now, little lady, sit back and let Stencil astound you with his bartending wizardry."

Xayella glanced over her shoulder at Sam and shot him a questioning look, then returned her attention to the Bolian. "One creme, no sugars," she called out to him.

As the bolian was working his magic at the antique coffee maker behind the bar, he glanced over at her. "I suspected you'd be a creme girl," he said. "Wasn't entirely sure about the sugars. So, Lieutenant, how are you liking the Sulu so far?"

Xayella propped her elbows atop the bar and cradled her face in her hands. "It's not a very exciting ship," she said with a sigh. "And the Commander's got it in for me, but being Chief Science Officer is what I've always wanted, and now that I've got it, I think I can put up with the tedium to keep it."

"You like action and excitement," Stencil said. "I'm sure you'll find your share of it here. And, you look the type that'd make some of your own if it didn't find you. Well, if you love science as much as I've heard you do, then I'm sure you'll make the best of your time here, and eventually not even Commander Lyrr will complain. But, with Captain Salinger in charge of this ship, I'm sure you'll never want for adventure."

Xayella grinned knowingly as her thoughts instinctively went back to their nearly intimate night together. "Oh, I'm sure he can keep me satisfied."

"Oh really?" Stencil said with a smile as he poured her cup of coffee. "Well, I won't pry unless you give me indication that prying by a friendly bartender is allowed." He added creme and brought the cup and saucer over to set before her. "Now, tell me that's the best damn cup of coffee you've ever tasted."

She picked up the cup, raised it in a salute to Stencil, then carefully sipped at the steaming liquid. Xayella's expression remained neutral as the slightly bitter coffee ran down her throat, but once its warmth hit her stomach, her lips curled into a smile. "For now, your coffee is definitely at the front of the running." She set the cup down onto the saucer then lifted both off the bar. "I've no doubt you'll be seeing me in here again, Bolian, and when you do, I think we can work out a small arrangement: You get to pry, and I get to drink as much coffee as I desire."

"You have yourself a deal, Lieutenant Tagliesh," Stencil said with a big grin. "I'll see you around. And, enjoy the coffee."

"Thanks," she replied, flashing him one of her sultry smiles. Only a privileged few ever received one from Xayella Tagliesh. She returned to Sam's side and raised the saucer and mug into view. "Coffee. Real coffee."

"From the look on your face," Sam began, "I believe I can surmise that Stencil does make a good cup of coffee. I have not yet tried coffee. Perhaps that should be next on my list."

"Your list?" Xayella set down her coffee and took a seat once they'd reached the table. "You make a list of beverages to sample?"

"I began devising the list yesterday when Stencil had me sample the orange nehi. I believe I like the flavour of the grape better, however. I had not yet considered coffee. I frequently construct lists of the tasks I must accomplish on my off-duty time. Such as studying a variety of art forms. Currently I am up to Bajoran Impressionists."

"But why?" Xayella asked. "What's the point? Why not just download all the information from the ship's computer? You called them "tasks" which implies a lack of enjoyment in the act, so why bother wasting your time sampling ten different varieties of a beverage if you can simply have the computer tell you what they taste like?"

Sam thought about that for a moment and then made the equivalent of a shrug. "The act of actually making the sample affects the final outcome of taste. I prefer to accomplish the goals I set for myself by myself, rather than having the ship's computer feeding me the information. I do not know if you experience the same sort of need in your endeavours."

"Well, I only endeavour to be the best at my job as I can be, and although finding a good cup of coffee has been a struggle, it's not something I consider an endeavour or a task. It's something that will simply bring me greater enjoyment if I succeed, and as an android, you don't experience such sensations. So again," Xayella said with an inquisitive smile, "why do you do it?"

"It is my hope to gain insight through the actions humans take," Sam said. "Perhaps by emulating their behaviour I will experience some of what they do. Or, in the very least, I will be able to at least act as humans do. By my nature, I am an inquisitive being, and this is an additional means by which to learn."

Xayella pushed aside her cup of coffee for the time being and folded her hands atop the table. As much as Sam annoyed her, he also intrigued her with his strange ideas. "So, you believe if you can sufficiently mimic human behaviour and mannerisms, you'll come one step closer to becoming human? Where does this desire come from? You're an android, superior in many ways to sentient beings. Why ever would you wish to imitate such lesser creatures?"

"My physical form was modeled off of the human form," Sam said. "If I appeared as a Klingon, I would do what I could to act as that from which I was formed. It is a curiousity. Additionally, there may come a time when the success of a mission resides on me acting as I appear."

"Ensign, you appear to me and everyone else on this crew as an android. It's what you are." Xayella chuckled. "Do you really believe you'd be able to fool anyone into thinking you were a humanoid? Even if you managed to perfect our idiosyncrasies and quirks, they'd still know you were an android."

"It is not the crew of this ship that my behaviour would be intended to 'fool.' " His whole body suddenly seemed to shift, and the rigid posture that Sam usually kept was gone. He slouched slightly and, for all intents appeared to be just another officer. The only thing that shattered the illusion were the bright golden eyes. After a moment of being a 'normal person,' Sam returned to his normal posture and cocked his head to the side. "That, by the way, was Patrick Riley's posture I was simulating."

Xayella emitted a peal of laughter that was at once jeering and filled with humour. "Sam, you're simply re-enacting the behaviour of others. You're merely an impersonator posing as another and calling that 'being human'. To successfully integrate yourself into the human social group, you...well...have to be yourself, not Patrick Riley or anyone else aboard this ship. You have to be Ensign Sam or you'll never pull off the ruse."

He pointed to the two solid pips on his collar. "Lieutenant now," he said with a smile. "And I can take in the behaviours of a sampling of people, and create a behaviour out of that. If I am to behave human, then the likelihood of a person recognizing the various patterns incorporated into my behaviour algorithms is quite remote." He stopped, processed a few thoughts and then shifted in his seat. "Lieutenant, do you have any hobbies in which you partake during your off hours?"

"Why do you ask, Lieutenant? Planning on incorporating my behaviour into your program?"

"It is common human behaviour to have an activity, sometimes more, to occupy free time. I was going to point out that while you occupy your interests with whichever activity you choose, I have chosen the study of human behaviour, customs, and practices to be mine."

"Then I guess you and I are similar in that respect," Xayella commented. "I too study the behaviour of others, but my motivations are less innocent than yours. You see, Lieutenant, I study others so as to better manipulate them. You look for a vulnerability, exploit it, and anything you strive for can be yours. That," she said as she jabbed the table with her forefinger for emphasis, "is my hobby."

Sam thought for a moment, and then settled his hands on the table in front of him. "If you do not mind me asking, what is it that you strive for?"

"For success," Xayella replied simply. "For dominance. I want to gain power and sway for myself, not have it handed to me because I'm fortunate enough to have very influential parents. In short, I want to separate myself from them, yet still retain my stature. Does that sound like a noble enough goal to you?"

"Not entirely," Sam said. "If you wish to gain power and sway for yourself, why do you not earn that through your actions rather than attempting to manipulate other people into giving you those things? I see very little difference between gaining what you desire through familial relations or through the manipulation of those around you."

"You're an android," Xayella explained, her features suddenly cold and hardened. "You couldn't possibly understand anything about that." She once again pushed aside her cup of tepid coffee and slid back her chair. "I think we've interacted enough for one day, Ensign Sam."

"Evasion and deflection," Sam said. "A common tactic among many sentient species to avoid an uncomfortable topic of conversation. Commonly accompanied by sarcasm--"

Both of their communicators chirped at the same time. "Lieutenants Tagliesh and Sam," Matt Salinger's voice said. "Please report to the main briefing room. We'll be having a senior staff meeting in ten minutes."

Xayella tapped her communicator while keeping her icy gaze on Sam. "On our way, Captain." She rose stiffly from her chair and spoke to Sam with a quiet, menacing tone. "Don't follow me out. I'd prefer it if we didn't share a turbolift to the bridge." With a feral smile, Xayella turned and slowly made her retreat.

Sam gave her his best wounded look, but it would have only been effective if Xayella had eyes in the back of her head. He waited for a minute, finishing off the last of his beverage, and then hurried out of the room after the Sulu's chief science officer.

---

"Arrival"
by Ensign Patric - Navigation Officer

Location: USS Venture, USS Sulu
Stardate: 57906.20, 13h15

***

The Defiant-Class vessel dropped out of warp and smoothly entered orbit alongside the USS Sulu. The two ships appeared to be ornaments on a Christmas tree as they orbited Risa together. On the bridge of the Venture, the captain tapped his console and opened a channel to the Sulu. "This is Captain Roger Lake of the USS Venture, standing by for personnel transfers. Just say the word, Sulu, and we'll send your new kids over."

From the overhead speakers, came a masculine sounding voice: "Acknowledged, Venture. Give us five minutes and we'll be ready for the transfer." The speakers beeped once then went dead as the channel was cut from the other end.

The captain looked over to his first officer and shrugged. "I guess they're too busy partying on Risa to chat." He shrugged again, waving dismissively and chuckling slightly. "Go ahead and see to the transfer yourself, Tim. We'll be departing and heading out to the Bilmur system as soon as they're off." He sighed as Commander McAddis stepped into the turbolift and the doors slid shut behind him.

***

As Patric rematerialized aboard the USS Sulu, he looked around as he followed the other five transferees. They all stood at attention as a man with lieutenant's pips walked from behind the transporter console. The man nodded to the group as a whole. "Welcome aboard the Intrepid-Class USS Sulu. I am Lieutenant Giles McKenzie, acting Chief Helm officer. The majority of you will accompany this other gentleman." He paused long enough to wave to another lieutenant before continuing, "Lieutenant Rachel Hansen will escort five of you down to Engineering and help you to learn the ropes." Once again, he trailed off as the new group turned as one to follow Hansen as she led the way out of the transporter room.

As Patric passed in front of him, McKenzie reached out and gripped Patric's arm to hold him back. Giles whispered to him as the doors lid shut, "Ensign, you'll accompany me up to the bridge." He released Patric's arm, stepping out into the corridor and turning to head toward the nearest turbolift. He didn't even bother looking behind himself to make certain Patric was following as he continued toward the turbolift. Patric naturally had no trouble keeping up but was a little distracted by the lieutenant's apparent silent treatment. When the pair stepped into the turbolift, McKenzie eyed Patric quickly then addressed the computer. "Bridge." He said it simply and without inflection, making Patric realize that his introduction was also emotionless.

As the turbolift proceeded up, Patric began wondering if the lieutenant had emotions to offer. His thought process was interrupted as the turbolift came to a smooth halt and the doors slid apart, revealing the nerve center of the USS Sulu.

---

"Phantasms - Staff Meeting"
Captain Matthew T. Salinger
Commander Lyrr Tayla
Lt. Xayella Tagliesh
Lt. Sam
and Lt. Jorell Thalan

Location: USS Sulu, Bridge
Stardate 57906.20, 14h07

***

All systems were functioning to textbook perfection. The crew was as efficient as any commanding officer could ever ask for. There were several points where Matt thought he might have been dreaming, but each time he pinched himself he knew that wasn't the case. After the second time, he had to explain it to Commander Lyrr. He thought that she'd understood, but he also thought he recognized the look one commonly sees when someone does something completely unorthodox.

"Increase to warp seven," Matt said. The helm responded instantly and he could feel the change in the systems. Ensign Hansen at the bridge station looked back at him and nodded. Everything was still working exactly as it was supposed to.

"I think this is one of the best shakedowns I've ever been a part of," he said.

Before anyone could respond, Crewman Hamilton sat up straight. "Captain," she said as she glanced toward the center of the bridge where Matt sat. "There's an incoming hail from Starfleet Command. Captain's eyes only."

Matt glanced at Lyrr and smiled. "I believe these will be the orders we were waiting for," he said. "I'll take it in my ready room. Mr. McKenzie, you have the conn. Commander Lyrr, you're with me."

"Yes, Captain." Tayla stepped away from the command station behind Matt and found herself having to rush to keep up with his long, eager strides. "Excited, I see," she commented once she was finally by his side.

He glanced at her and grinned. "Quite," he said. "It's our first mission. Aren't you?" The doors to his ready room slid open for them. He moved to take a seat behind his desk and grinned at Tayla. "Ready? It's the beginning of our adventure."

Tayla settled into one of the two vacant chairs across from Matt's desk and motioned with her hand for him to proceed. "I hope you're not disappointed, Captain."

"The only thing that could disappoint me, Commander," he said, "is if they order us home." He tapped in his command code on the terminal set into his desk.

A moment later Admiral Michael Kenyon's face appeared on the screen. The man gave Matt a smile. "Captain Salinger," the man said with a wide grin. "I trust that this moment has you quite excited. It's a moment every Starfleet captain remembers fondly."

Matt didn't even try to hide his grin. "I'm eagerly awaiting whatever you have for us, Admiral," he said. "And, Commander Lyrr is here with me."

"Lyrr? Well, turn the monitor so I can talk to both of you, Matt." Matt did as asked and the admiral beamed a smile at Tayla. "Lyrr Tayla. I've been following your career since you first expressed an interest in Starfleet. I trust you're finding the Sulu to be quite different from the Davies."

"Very different indeed, Admiral," Tayla replied. "But I imagine that's a matter of perspective now. This is my first time serving as commander, and not to mention on a new ship. At times, I almost feel like an ensign fresh from the Academy all over again."

"Sometimes I get that feeling when I walk into some of the meetings we have around here," Kenyon said with a laugh. "Well, I can hear Matt grinding his teeth, so I'll get to the point of my contacting you: your mission. There's a planet in the Corialis sector that we need some more information on. A full survey. The Sulu is perfect for the mission since your primary profile right now is science. You should be able to find Dorvali 449 in astrometrics. The system was first discovered by the USS Pascal. You'll find a full report in the mission data. It's the fourth planet in the system. Class M. They found no traces of higher life forms, but the planet is teeming with lower life forms. It may work well as a base; that's what we're here to determine. There are some good mineral and metal deposits on the planet that will be of use. It's not much for a first assignment, but it's right up your alley."

"I'll get the information to Lieutenant Tagliesh immediately," Matt said. "I'll have her start preparing mission assignments for her people. We'll go over every square nanometer, sir."

Kenyon laughed. "You'll have fourteen days to study. After that, we'll have another assignment for you. Make it as thorough as you can. Two weeks should be more than enough time."

Matt nodded. "For a planetary study, I would think so. At least for this kind of report."

"If there's something worthy there, we'll send out the USS Armstrong," Kenyon said. "Any other questions, Captain? Commander?"

Matt shook his head and glanced to Tayla.

She in turn shook her head, and noticed Matt's lip twitching with a forcibly restrained grin. "I think you'd better send us on our way, Admiral," Tayla said playfully. "Captain Salinger's about ready to burst with anticipation."

Kenyon laughed, and would have slapped Matt on the back had he been there. "Very well," he said. "Good luck out there. Kenyon out." After the goodbyes were made, the connection was closed.

Matt glanced over at Tayla and smiled. "Planetary survey isn't bad," he said. "We could be cataloguing space debris. I think this will be good for us. And, it'll be a perfect chance for Lieutenant Tagliesh to show us if she's going to make it here."

"And a perfect opportunity for this crew to demonstrate the full extent of their abilities," Tayla added. She shifted to the edge of her seat and regarded Matt with a steady gaze. "How did your meeting with the infamous Lieutenant go last evening? If you don't mind me prying."

Matt laughed. "Well, I think it went well," he said. "I don't know if Ms. Tagliesh would agree. As I suspected, she turned on all her charms. I have a feeling I came across as too willing to go along with her. I was surprised at how quickly she raced out the door. Sometimes the best method to deter someone is to give them exactly what they want. They quickly find that it's not what they really wanted at all."

"Captain, I don't think I have to tell you to be very careful. If she becomes aggravated enough with you, she could turn all this around on you and make it appear far less innocent than it is." Tayla frowned slightly. "She's vindictive and immoral. If it would help advance her career at all, or save her reputation, she would use such meetings in her favour to damn you."

Matt nodded. "I understand," he said. "And, I'm staying careful. I'm keeping logs as accurately as I can. That way I do have something to document my actions. However, I don't think she'll be coming on quite so strong again. I am looking forward to whatever her next tactic may be though." He chuckled at her admonishing glare. "And, I'll be careful. I just got this ship; I'm not ready to lose it yet."

"And I'm not ready to lose my captain either." Tayla smiled to palliate her expression and sat back in her chair. "Especially not when we have so many preparations to take care of. I assume our first step will be to call a meeting to get everyone organized."

"Yes," he said. "A staff meeting. Then a course change to the Corialis sector. By the time we arrive, all departments should have everything in order to begin the survey. I'm going to leave most of the crew assignments to Lt. Tagliesh. I want you to supplement her science choices with security and operations people. I'd like at least two security personnel and one ops officer on the planet with the away team at all times."

"I'm assuming either of us will have final approval over the crew rosters she compiles," Tayla said. "I don't trust Lt. Tagliesh to act in an unbiased manner when deciding upon crew members to accompany her. She loathes Ensign Rax, and if it were up to the lieutenant, that poor girl would never have an opportunity to flex her skills."

Matt tapped a finger against his chin as he read over the information for the briefing. "She's strong in botany, isn't she?" At Tayla's nod, he continued. "It seems that the planet is fairly tropical. Her skills will be useful. See that she is on a team. Just make sure that it's not a team where Lt. Tagliesh is present on the planet as well. We don't want the conflict. I know we can't keep them apart forever, but minimizing it shouldn't be a problem."

Tayla sighed and nodded grudgingly. "Alright. The girl certainly doesn't need the stress of interacting with Lt. Tagliesh. Once she's better adjusted to her present situation, she should be able to cope with the Lieutenant."

"I agree," Matt said. "That must be a very awkward situation. To go to sleep, and then wake up with the memories and experiences of four other people in your head. It must be thoroughly disorienting."

"As will we be if we don't get the team assignments rolling before we arrive on the planet. I'll go inform Lt. Thalan of the meeting." Tayla frowned with distaste as she rose from the chair. "You can contact Lt. Tagliesh."

Matt smiled. "Of course," he said. "Also, bring in McKenzie at helm. I'll round up the rest of the senior staff. Let's meet in twenty minutes in the briefing room."

Tayla nodded curtly then dismissed herself from the ready room.

Matt noted that Lts. Tagliesh and Sam were together in the lounge, so it would make this one easy. He opened a channel to both their communicators. "Lieutenants Tagliesh and Sam. Please report to the main briefing room. We'll be having a senior staff meeting in ten minutes."

After receiving acknowledgement from Lt. Tagliesh, he closed the channel and moved on to the rest of the senior staff.

***

Tayla had taken her place on the side of the long table corresponding to Matt's right. Aside from the attached symbolism, that associated with being Matt's "right-hand man," Tayla preferred this position at the table. From here, she could observe all who entered the conference room, especially Lt. Tagliesh. If their eyes did meet, which they most certainly would considering the enmity that had developed between the two, she could give her a tacit, yet firm warning to behave herself. It always did amaze Lyrr Tayla how much could be conveyed through a simple gaze.

Lt. Jorell Thalan had been prompt and was already seated. Matt had indicated that Sam and Lt. Tagliesh would be arriving together, or so he assumed, and heads of the other departments essential for the mission were also present. Although the meeting was about ready to start, Tayla couldn't help noticing how eager Matt was to get it underway, whether all were present or not. She'd never seen such overwhelming excitement displayed by a captain before, but Tayla was beginning to discover that Matt Salinger was no ordinary Starfleet captain. For his benefit alone, she hoped they encountered much intrigue and wonder during this mission.

Finally, Sam and Lt. Tagliesh walked through the doorway, but not together. Rather, Sam was approximately a minute behind the Lieutenant. As expected, Lt. Tagliesh looked directly at Tayla first upon entering the room. The commander shot her a rather quelling, stern gaze, and in return received an almost jeering smile. As the science officer sat, however, her eyes strayed to Matt. Tayla didn't interpret any significance to the seat chosen by the lieutenant - the first chair on the left side of the table and also the closest to Matt's - but the subtle, allusive grin Xayella gave him worried her slightly. She hoped that whatever game Matt was playing with her, he was far better at it than Xayella. Tayla wasn't too eager to see her captain and friend ruined because of a spoiled, manipulative--

"We've got our first mission," Matt announced as he moved to the table where everyone sat. He tapped a key in front of him and the image of a planet appeared on the monitor behind him. "This is Dorvali," Matt said. "Technically, it's Dovali 449-4. Fourth planet in the Dorvali 449 star system. The star was first discovered by the USS Pascal, and the class M planet, six years ago. Because of the war, it was never looked into. Until now. It's not the most exciting first mission in the history of Starfleet, but it's something this ship is ready for. Our primary profile is scientific discovery, and Dorvali's a chance to discover something." He motioned to the padds before each person at the table. "Our mission objectives and all current data on the planet are listed for you. It's a tropical world without any known sentient lifeforms."

"Captain," Sam said from the other end of the table. He'd tried to sit next to Xayella, but the science officer's glare had sent him to the opposite end of the table, "will there be any threat from predatory species on the planet?"

"We'll take precautions for that," Matt answered, "but I don't believe they'll be a problem if we stay out of their way. Lieutenant Tagliesh will be leading the away team. Parameters for the team profiles are on your padd, Xayella." He glanced at her, but hid his smile. "As mission leader, do you have any questions about the data there or your objectives?"

Xayella nodded slowly at the information on her padd, then she regarded Matt. "What should our primary focus be while surveying the planet? We could do a full scientific assessment, or we could narrow our focus to a particular area of study."

"As full a scientific profile as we can manage," Matt said. "However, I think Starfleet would like particular attention paid to the uses the planet may have for us. Mineral, energy needs. Potential for colonial settlement. Things of that sort."

Xayella nodded again and shot Matt another imperceptible smile before gazing down at her padd again. Tayla noticed and was not pleased. She cautioned Matt as she had in his ready room earlier, but this time with only a pointed look. "Although this may be a very routine planetary survey mission," she said, shifting her gaze to address all at the table, "precautionary safety measures must be taken. Lt. Thalan, you will be organizing the security teams, of course. After preliminary assessment of what little information you've been able to review, what have you determined as the level of risk to the away teams?"

The young betazoid man looked about the table, catching the Commander's gaze to both the Captain and Lt. Tagliesh before answering the First Officer's question. "Looking over the mission logs of the Pascal, I have determined that the risk to an away team is low. I would suggest caution though, a wild creature is still unpredictable. I would also like to note that it has been six years since anyone has looked in on the Dorvali system. We should proceed with caution until we can determine if anyone else has laid claim to the planet."

Jorell then looked to the Captain, then Cmdr. Lyrr, then to the others present for any questions they might have.

Matt nodded his thanks to the security chief. "We'll go in cautious." He turned to Xayella. "Make certain you have your people manning the sensors. We want to know about anything before it knows about us."

"Then you will," Xayella asserted confidently. "I'll organize my department as soon as the meeting ends."

Matt smiled. "Good," he said. "We don't know what's in store for us there, so we'll have to stay alert. Let's hope this will just be a routine planetary survey; if not, I want us ready. Is there anything else?"

Xayella shook her head slowly as her eyes travelled to the others at the conference table.

Jorell answered, "No, Sir."

"Alright," Matt said once he was certain no one else had anything to say, "let's get to work. Mr. McKenzie, go ahead and lay in a course. Warp six, if you would."

"Aye, sir," McKenzie replied and then started toward the door.

The rest of the staff began filing out and Matt watched them with a bemused smile.

Xayella exchanged one final glance with Matt and also departed to coordinate her staff. Tayla ignored her, knowing it would only cause her further annoyance. "I guess all we can do now is wait," she said to Matt once the room was clear.

"Pretty much," Matt said. "To pass the time, how would you like to watch a hockey game in the holodeck tonight?"

Tayla laughed. "Just the two of us? Shouldn't we be preparing for the mission?"

"We have the rest of the day to prepare," Matt said with a grin. "Everyone needs time to unwind, and it might be nice to do that on game night. Besides, we'll both be off shift, and we've got the rest of the senior staff preparing. There won't be much else for us to do yet."

Tayla arched her eyebrows briefly, then reluctantly nodded. "It will help me get a better grasp of all these strange colloquial expressions you keep using. So where and when shall I meet you?"

Matt grinned at her. "Holodeck two," he said. "Uniform isn't mandatory. I'm sure you're going to love this."

"I look forward to it then." Tayla bowed her head as she rose from her seat. "I'm going to go speak with Lt. Thalan further about security for the mission. Is there anything else you needed me to do?"

"Nothing else at the moment," Matt said. "Let's meet up here in the morning to go over what information everyone's come up with. We'll have more to work with then. Keep me posted on what you and the lieutenant come up with, and I'll see you this evening if I don't see you before."

"Yes, sir." Tayla started for the door, but stopped a few feet from it and turned towards Matt again. "You're still smiling that same smile you wore when the Admiral gave us our orders. You're not going to bounce off the walls when I leave, are you?"

Matt laughed. "Maybe once," he said. "But, I'll try to keep myself under control until I get into my cabin later."

Tayla smiled and gave Matt a nod. "Very well, Captain." Then, she stepped through the doors and onto the bridge, leaving Matt behind to bounce as much as he desired.

Matt didn't exactly bounce. What he did instead was spin around and around in his chair, fighting the urge to let out a whoop of joy at where he was. It wouldn't do to be so exuberant, so he contented himself with spinning for now. Maybe he and Tayla could share a glass of champagne later. He smiled. Or he and Xay. He closed his eyes and reclined back. It wasn't going to be easy to top this day in the best days of all time list. Though, he certainly looked forward to trying.

---

"Proposal"
By: Commander Lyrr Tayla
Lt. Jorell Thalan

Location: Main Bridge
Stardate 57906.20, 14h30

***

Lyrr Tayla left a boisterous Captain Salinger behind in the briefing room to attend to his pent up excitement. Settling into her chair on the bridge, she thought of how she still found his exuberance amusing, but despite that, she knew he was a capable commanding officer. If anything, though, at least her service aboard the Sulu would be made much more interesting by his presence alone.

Jorell Thalan left the staff meeting and had first gone to his office where he informed the officers in his staff of the coming mission and what he wanted done. He then returned to his station on the bridge.

As he stepped into view, Lyrr Tayla's thoughts to him. Serving in the Bajoran Militia and fighting briefly in the Resistance, Lyrr couldn't help but develop an interest in military strategy and tactics. If she hadn't become a commander, she would have given thought to pursuing the position of security chief, but Lt. Thalan was quite competent and Lyrr felt more than confident with him handling ship's security.

Lyrr caught up to him as he neared the tactical station and greeted him with a smile. "Lt. Thalan. I've been meaning to speak with you for a while now. I know we've only been a couple days on board, but of all the bridge officers, you're the only one I've yet to meet."

The Chief of Security more sensed the First Officer than saw her first. He turned and nodded. "Commander. I have time to talk now if you would like."

He motioned to the young woman at tactical. "Ensign Hansen, you may remain. I will be with Commander Lyrr if you need me for anything."

The young woman replied, "Aye, Sir" and remained at her station.

Lt. Thalan turned back to the XO.

"I've also been meaning to comment on your performance in the recent simulation," Lyrr went on as she and Jorell moved aside to converse. "You did exceptionally well, considering it was the first time this crew had to cooperate...and some more than others," she retorted. Somehow, Lt. Tagliesh always invaded her thoughts, instantly putting her in a sour mood.

"Thank you. Being telepathic helps. I am able to do what is needed before I am actually told," the man smiled. "I also had a good teacher who taught me how to anticipate actions for a given situation." Picking up on Lyrr's negativity, he looked to the Bajoran in a questioning manner. "Is something wrong, Commander?"

Lyrr smiled tautly at the lieutenant and shook her head. Telepath, you fool. Keep your darker thoughts about Tagliesh safely locked away. "I am merely concerned about security for this mission. As the captain stated, the planet has been relatively secluded for six years. Who knows what could be lurking down below now. At any rate, I've been thinking that perhaps you could organize a security detail to scout the planet before the rest of the teams go down to begin their survey."

Jorell looked at the woman for a moment, sensing that what she'd said was bothering her was not what she was thinking. But then he could not read anything, and decided it best not to pry.

"I can arrange that. I know I would feel better if I knew of any dangers before having to protect scientists from an unknown attacker," he stated in response to the suggestion. "That being if there is even anything down there. Better to be over, rather than under cautious. I will have my people ready to go once we arrive." He then asked, "You will be leading this first away mission, correct?"

"No, that will be Lt. Tagliesh," Lyrr replied. "Since this is supposed to be a routine scientific inspection, I will not be accompanying the away teams. Why do you ask, Lt.?"

The man joked, "Famous last words." He then explained himself but saying, "Routine mission." Jorell then said, "I was just curious is all. Let's just say I have already heard 'rumors' about Lt. Tagliesh. As I have yet to meet the woman, I will give her the benefit of the doubt before forming an opinion of her."

Looking more serious now he asked, "Commander, I would like the authority to get everyone off the planet, should such a need arise. I would most likely do what I saw as the best course of action without the authority, but it is nice to have it. I do not want to argue about who has command of what when and if something serious occurs." He then smiled once again saying, "Call me paranoid, but that's my job."

Lyrr smiled briefly, then nodded her head pensively. "If there is a danger present upon the planet that we do not yet know of, and which is not identified during your security team's initial sweep, then I think it would be prudent to give you that kind of authority, especially considering Lt. Tagliesh would not take kindly to being ordered around by a security officer unless he was given express permission to do so by the Captain." She nodded again, more decisively now. "Organize a security team to perform a pre-survey sweep. I'll speak to the captain about your request, but I think it would be a wise precaution."

Lt. Thalan nodded his head. "Yes, Ma'am, and thank you. Is there anything else?"

"Nothing at this time," Tayla replied. "Let me know when you've organized the security team. I would like them dispatched as soon as we arrive at the planet so we can get this mission going."

"Yes, Ma'am," he said again, "I will let you know when my team is ready." With that he stood to attention and with her permission returned to his station.

Tayla returned to her chair and sat in quiet contemplation for a time. Jorell's proposal held merit, especially when Tayla considered that Xayella was heading the away team, and that no one would be safe under her leadership without someone prevailing over her on the planet. She wouldn't like it one bit, but Tayla wasn't too concerned about hurting Xayella's pride. In fact, she could use some demoralization to remedy her overweening arrogance. And if Tayla could convince Matt to accept Thalan's request, she might just succeed in taking Xayella Tagliesh down a notch or three.

---

"Game Night"
by Captain Matthew T. Salinger
and Commander Lyrr Tayla

Location: USS Sulu, Holodeck 2
Stardate 57906.20, 19h30

***

Tayla looked down at the outfit she had chosen and frowned pensively. She hadn't had a chance to read up on the sport of hockey, but from what Matt told her, ice was involved. She didn't know in what manner it was used, but she'd learn soon enough. Still, that clue alone wasn't enough to give her an idea of what attire would be appropriate for the event, but it was a sport, so she figured casual was the way to go.

She arrived promptly at Holodeck Two and waited for Matt outside. She hoped she wouldn't regret agreeing to this.

Matt rounded the corner at a half-jog. "Ah good," he said with a grin, "you're here. I had an emergency session with Flummux. He's afraid that he might catch something if he's needed on the Away Team mission on Dorvali. I told him that engineers, especially those specializing in holographics, would probably not be a vital part of the mission. I think I managed to get him calmed down. So, all set?"

Tayla appraised her burgundy, velour pants and fitted black sweater, then compared it with the trousers and odd-looking jersey he wore and shrugged. "I believe so... Am I dressed appropriately for the occasion?"

"You're dressed perfectly," Matt said with a grin. "Come on. We've got great seats." He moved over to the holodeck where the program was already running. It was a wonderful feature to be able to start a particular program at a particular time and have everything underway when you walked through the doors.

The pressure doors hissed apart, and the din of a full stadium rushed out at them. Matt led Tayla with him down toward the seats, stepping down through the crowd gathered for the game.

"We're right over there," Matt said, pointing toward a pair of vacant seats.

Tayla looked around at the fans packing the stadium as she sidled across the row towards their seats, careful not to step on any toes. "What's that smell?"

Matt grinned and looked around. "Hot dogs," he said. "There's also a guy selling cotton candy and popcorn over there. Oh, and that guy there is selling shirts and hats and stuff. You want a shirt?"

Tayla took her seat, and once settled, she looked over at the t-shirts with strange, stylized animals printed on the front, then glanced sidelong at Matt. "No thank you, Captain."

Matt chuckled. "How about a hot dog? Did you ever have any hot dogs when you were at the Academy? I know they don't have them on Bajor. But, they're available on earth. You have to try one. It's part of the experience."

"If you insist, Captain." Tayla looked out upon the white, solid surface in the rink, then quizzically regarded Matt. "Is that the ice? But...ice is slippery. How will they stand on it?"

Matt chuckled. "They wear skates," he said. "You'll see when they come out. But, you know those strange boots behind my desk in my Ready Room? Those are skates."

"You know how to skate? Is it fun?"

Matt grinned. "It's very fun," he said. "Though, sometimes it takes some practice. If you'd like, I can show you sometime." He waved over the hot dog vendor. "Okay, hot dogs. You have to try one of these. I don't know if you'll like them or not, but it's all part of the experience."

"Well, if you like them, I suppose I'll have to try it."

The vendor came down to their row and hollered at them from the aisle, above the idle chatter of fans the was more of a ruckus than anything approximating intimate conversation. "What'll it be?"

"Two...hot dogs," Tayla hollered back.

"What toppings?" he asked

She looked to Matt and frowned in confusion. "Toppings? I don't understand."

Matt couldn't hide his smile. "It's common to put...toppings on hot dogs. It helps to add to the flavour. Go ahead and ask for everything."

Tayla nodded slowly and once again looked to the vendor. "Everything, please."

"Two red-hots with everything comin' up!" The vendor dipped his tongs into the steaming liquid within the metallic receptacle strapped to his shoulders and pulled out one thick hot dog ready to burst at the seams. He nestled it into a bun, then worked quickly and expertly squirting and layering toppings atop the hot dog, ranging from specialties like grilled onions, to the basic condiments such as ketchup and mustard. In a matter of seconds, two hot dogs smothered in a medley of garnishes were passed down to Tayla and Matt.

Tayla looked down at the food item now in her hands and scrutinized it. "Captain? How would one eat something like this?"

Matt held his hot dog out as a demonstration. "It's not quite an artform, but close. Especially if you want to make sure everything you put on it stays on it. So, you hold it out, and then...like so." He proceeded to take a bite out of one end. "See?" he asked around a mouthful of hotdog.

Tayla laughed at the demonstration. She handed Matt a napkin from the small pile in her lap with which to dab at the mustard near the edge of his mouth. "Very charming, Captain."

Matt grinned, wiped away the mess he was making, and continued eating. "Just don't let anyone else know about this side of me," Matt said once he'd swallowed down the bite he'd been chewing. "I really don't want to lose respect because I'm just a normal guy in here."

"From what I've seen of you on the bridge, you're a normal guy out there too with just a hint of professionalism when it's needed." Tayla raised her hot dog to the level of her mouth and carefully brought it forward. She went cross-eyed watching it sail to her lips, then continued to do so as she opened her mouth wide and bit down through the thick layer of toppings, and straight through the hot dog and bun. Onions spilled over the edge and onto her lap, and mustard and ketchup managed to find their way to the tip of her nose and her cheeks. All in all, it was a messy first attempt. She chewed slowly and assessed the flavour. After swallowing it down, she nodded her approval. "Very good. How'd I do?"

Matt grinned and handed her a napkin. "Very well," he said. "Good on the follow-through, but a little off on the dismount."

Tayla accepted the napkin with a look of befuddlement on her face. "Pardon?"

"Another earth sports reference," Matt said. "Gymnastics. It's...well, I should probably show you sometime. I don't know if I could accurately describe it."

"Well, if I like this hockey game, then perhaps I will give gymnastics a try as well." Tayla gazed at her hot dog and took another large bite. "So," she said with a full mouth, "when does it start?"

"Should be just another ten minutes," Matt said. "They'll have to go over the ice one more time, and then the players will come out. And, then the game starts. If you want, I can jump the program ahead..."

"No, no. I want the full experience, Captain. I can wait." Tayla set her half-eaten hot dog upon the napkins on her lap and passed the one in her hand over her lips. "So, Captain, what shall we talk about now? I'm assuming work is out of the question, but I know of nothing else to discuss with you."

"I know you grew up during the Occupation and activities like this would be fairly rare, but were there any sports or games that you played during your youth, or even as you grew older?"

"Does target practice count?"

Matt laughed. "I guess it does. If you're interested, I'll introduce you to some sports I've played. And, it may even be fun to try out some that I haven't. And, it beats regular trips to the gym. I have tried springball. I believe that one originated on Bajor, didn't it?"

"It did, but I've never played," Tayla said. "There wasn't much time in my youth. Some would say I was lacking in a childhood, but I did have one. It was just a very unconventional one. I mean, how many 16 year olds do you know can fire a blaster with complete accuracy?"

"Very few," Matt said. "And, those that can, if there isn't a good reason for it, I'm worried. Even for those where there is a good reason, it still concerns me. People shouldn't be forced to go through things like that. It's...I wish the Federation could have done something before... If only we'd known."

"It wasn't the Federation's fight." Tayla's tone and demeanour changed dramatically, as it always did when reminiscing about her traumatic past, and all sign of good humour disappeared. "It shouldn't have been our fight either, but the Cardassians forced us into that position." She sighed, then her mouth twisted into a bitter smile. "Did you know I was supposed to be a Cardassian-Bajoran hybrid? Well, at least that's what a certain, enterprising Gul wanted, but he never did get his wish." Tayla chuckled wryly. "How unfortunate for him."

"Quite," Matt said with a frown. "It may not have been our fight, but if we'd gotten involved... It's really pointless to talk about it. It's in the past, and there's nothing we can do about it now. But, I do wish we could have done something to help Bajor." He shook his head and sighed.

"Matt," Tayla said gently, "thanks for your sentiments. But it was out of the Federation's hands. Besides, we survived and now we're stronger for what we've gone through. And my people have proven to themselves that when faced with adversity, we're one tough race."

"I've spent time among your people," Matt said. "And, I know just how strong they are. And, I've seen it in you since I first met you in that starbase lounge. I also dated a Bajoran woman for a short while. It was an experience."

Tayla cocked and eyebrow at Matt, and her spirits lifted almost immediately. "Really? Had troubling handling her, did you? Well, it's not surprising. We Bajoran women are a tenacious breed. It was courageous of you to even attempt it."

Matt chuckled softly. "No, it wasn't anything like that. We had some wild arguments, but there was a lot of passion there too. She was transferred off the Hood, and we decided to go our separate ways. It's hard to have a relationship in Starfleet, especially serving on a starship when you're shooting up the ladder towards a command. I still hear from her, but we're no longer...what we were."

Tayla sighed and once again lifted her hot dog to her lips. "Well, you're a captain now, so you'll have to get used to being single, at least aboard the ship."

"I agree completely," Matt said. "Which is why I am currently very single. However, there are those out there who can manage a relationship and a command. Since I'm just starting out here, I think I'll hold off seeing anyone." He gave her a grin.

Tayla chewed the morsel of food slowly while studying Matt's face. Once her mouth was clear again, she smiled suspiciously. "Was there a 'for now' attached to the end of that, Captain?"

Matt smiled over the top of his hot dog. "I like to keep my options open, Commander," he said. "I hate getting boxed in. It may never happen, but I do like to have the chance if it presents itself and it won't jeopardize my duty to this crew or ship."

"Very well, Captain," she replied skeptically. "But if she's not good enough for you, believe me, you'll know it."

Matt laughed. "Well, I have to meet her first," he said. "I don't see that happening any time soon, but we'll see. For now, I'm just Captain Matt Salinger, the hockey fan. Oh, here come the players."

They glided across the ice easily and deftly, a surprising feat for such large, hefty men as they appeared to be. With their bulk, she wondered how they even managed to stand, let alone skate so skillfully.

Tayla blindly tore a piece from her hot dog and nudged Matt. "What are those things in their hands?"

"Those are hockey sticks," Matt said. "The ref, the guy down there in the middle, he's got a little black disk that's called a puck. The goal is to get the puck into the goals at the end of the rink using only the stick to manipulate it. The team on the far side tries to get the puck in the goal on this side, and the team down here tries to get it into the other one."

"That's all?" Tayla grimaced. "Doesn't sound like much fun to watch, Captain."

"Well, the object is to keep the other team from scoring points as well. It'll all be clear soon enough. See, they're all gathering around the center. This is where things get exciting."

Tayla heard the shrill whistle blow, then the puck dropped onto the ice. What came next both thrilled her and startled her. The two men facing off at the center lunged at one another, creating an impact Tayla could hear from where she sat. As the puck floated along the ice, much of the same thing happened. Players slammed into one another with reckless disregard for safety or even the pain they'd cause themselves or others. Some men were pinned against the boards, while others were shoved to the ground, all for a struggle to possess the puck. Tayla still didn't see a point to the game, especially in its violence, but she couldn't deny that she enjoyed it immensely.

"A very...interesting sport," she muttered absently to Matt.

"You should have seen me at the Academy," Matt said. "I was on the Academy hockey team. I won't try to get you out there doing that, but it's incredibly fun."

"Fun?" Tayla looked at him in disbelief. "It's pure brutality. I think that one man is even bleeding!"

Matt laughed. "Well, when you're out there in the middle of it, it's much more fun. And, I think someone caught him with a stick. I'm surprised there wasn't a whistle. Oh, he's gonna take a shot!"

Tayla almost ducked, taking his outburst as a warning that someone would be firing a phaser, but soon she realized what he was referring to. One of the players had the puck in his possession, and, with intricate manoeuvring, was weaving his way around the other players and towards his competitor's net. He dug his blades into the ice, sending up a spray of white shards, and stopped short of the net. The puck rested before him while behind him, a charge of players were rushing towards him with fierce determination on their faces.

Tayla found herself slowly rising from her seat in tense anticipation as the player swung back his stick. "Come on!" she shouted. "Hurry!" Though, she couldn't be heard for the rest of the loud cries arising from the crowd.

With a smooth, quick thrust of his stuck, the player hit the puck and sent it rocketing towards the net. The goalie dove with his arm outstretched to catch the puck, but it was useless. A whining buzzer sounded in the stadium and all the crowd were on their feet, including Tayla. "Goal!" she hollered. "Did you see that, Captain? Did you see what he did there? Amazing."

In between cheering on the scoring player, and just showing his appreciation in general, he turned to Tayla and nodded. "Amazing shot," he called out. "He's got a fast stick. I bet he'll be the top scorer tonight. You can tell just the way he carries the stick. Damn. If we had him on my team at the Academy..."

Tayla grinned and looked around at the celebrating fans. "So...is that it? Game over?"

"Oh no," Matt said. "There's still a long while yet. It's just a big celebration when one team scores. You'll see a lot more of this all night. See, they're at it again. The other team's driving down, but they're still feeling the heat from that sting. It'll take 'em a bit to recover from that."

Tayla returned her seat, still smiling from the excitement. "I really do believe I like this sport, Captain. We must do this again soon."

"Once a week? Maybe at the end of the week, we can schedule time for a game. It might also be fun to gather more people in for the game. Maybe once a month, get the senior staff in and have a real party with it."

"That might be interesting...without Lt. Tagliesh, of course."

"She may not even want to come to an event like that," Matt said. "But, I couldn't invite all the senior staff except her. Anyway, we'll see what happens. I don't anticipate we'll be starting that for a few weeks yet, so we have time. And, Lt. Tagliesh has time to prove herself...or not."

"Speaking of her... In the morning, I was wondering if we could have a short meeting about a proposal Lt. Thalan made to me today. It's regarding the upcoming mission."

"Of course," Matt said. "We can meet first thing and discuss it. According to McKenzie, we should arrive late tomorrow afternoon, so we'll have time to discuss and implement."

Tayla nodded. "I think you'll readily agree to his proposal. I believe it's a good idea." The players gathered around the center circle for another face-off, and soon the fight for the puck began again. She looked sideways at Matt and smiled. "I'm having fun tonight, Captain. Thank you for inviting me here."

Matt grinned without taking his eyes off the ice. "You're welcome," he said. "And, when we're in here, please call me Matt. Out there, I'm Captain Salinger. In here, I'm just Matt."

Tayla returned her gaze to the game and she nodded slowly. "Whatever you say, Matt Salinger. Though, the distinction between Matt Salinger and Captain Salinger is a little blurred. You're the same man in here as you are out there. Which probably makes you a better captain for it."

"But, here I'm off-duty and trying to relax," Matt said. "And, so I'm Matt. When I'm out on the bridge or commanding, I'm the captain."

Tayla chuckled. "Captain Matt. It's not an insult to your abilities, not at all. I'm just saying that young officers, such as we have, respond better to someone who is companionable, someone they trust as they would trust a friend. You're that kind of captain."

Matt grinned. "Thank you," he said. "Sometimes I do have to wonder. It's not so easy to see myself as other people see me, so it's nice to know I'm being seen the way I want to be."

"That's what I'm here for, Matt. A commander is supposed to help boost her captain's confidence. Am I succeeding?"

"Admirably," Matt said as he finished off his hot dog. "Though, too much success and Starfleet Command will be upset that you've made me too cocky with all your confidence building."

Tayla smiled. "Oh, I think you've managed that nicely on your own, Matt," she teased.

Matt chuckled to himself. "Point to the executive officer," he said. "I think success is going to be ours on this mission, and many more to come. We've got a good crew, and I think we're already showing that we can work well together. It's going to be good. I hope Command is watching, because there's a lot to see on the USS Sulu."

Tayla winced as a player was mashed against the boards in front of them, leaving a smear of blood on the plexiglass. "And it looks like there's even more to see in this game. Buy me another hot dog, Matt?"

"Of course," Matt said with a laugh, and waved over the vendor. "Two with everything."

Duty and missions were put aside for the holographic hockey game that was really heating up in front of them. It was a nice diversion because tomorrow would be the beginning of their first adventure...though little did they know it would be an adventure that would take some of the shine off of their idealism.

---

"New Horizons"
by: Ensign Jenara Redman
Ensign Kelzira Rax [NPC+]

Location: Ensign Rax's Private Quarters
Stardate: 57906.20, 22h34

***

Kelzira Rax sat on her bed staring at one of the twenty padds sitting spread out over the bedspread. Notes about the upcoming mission. Most of them were over five year old scans from the USS Pascal. It'd taken a big favour from Ensign Mel'Chir to get this much information. Lieutenant Tagliesh was doing everything she could to keep her from getting any information about the mission. Fortunately, Tchalla was kind enough to help. Kel sighed.

Perhaps the ship's theatre would be available soon. She was looking forward to a shipwide performance. That would be really great. She smiled at the thought of losing herself in a performance. So wonderful. If Lieutenant Tagliesh didn't chain her to a science lab to keep her from having any time for enjoyment.

Kelzira was about to sigh again, but before she could, the door opened and a young human woman shoved her way through holding a fully packed carryall. An eyebrow quirked and Kelzira leaned out from her bed. "Hello?"

The young woman looked up at the Trill and smiled sheepishly. "Ummm hi, My name is Jenara...Jenara Redman. There was a last minute problem and I was asked to move out of my quarters temporarily. I guess you and I are going to be roommates."

Kelzira slid off the bed, making sure none of the padds followed her. "Hi there, I'm Kelzira Pren...er, I mean Rax. Kelzira Rax." She gave a sheepish smile and waved Jenara further into the room. "I heard I would be getting a new bunkmate. That closet is empty, and that clothing chest. And, the other bed there."

Jenara looked around the room as Kelzira gave the short tour. As her eyes fell upon her bed, she began to haul her belongings over. Throwing the carryall bag onto the bed, Jenara sat down and looked at her new roommate. A faint look of recognition spread across Jen's face as she asked, "You look familiar. Did we have a class together at the academy?"

Kelzira studied Jenara's face and thought back to her Academy classes. "I think it was Interphasic Technology," she said. "Lieutenant Carson Blake's class." A look of relief crossed over her features. "I knew you looked familiar!"

A relaxed grin appeared as Jen replied, "That was such a fun class. So how have your first few days aboard the ship treated you?"

Kelzira dropped back onto the edge of the bed and sighed. "Well, most things are going really well. But, my supervisor doesn't like me very much. Captain Salinger and Commander Lyrr had me transferred to Beta shift so I don't have quite so much involvement with the lieutenant. Since that, things are going good. I'm trying to get ready for the Away Team now. There's a lot of botany down there to get caught up with."

Jen shook her head. "Let me guess, you're having problems with Lieutenant Tagliesh. I've heard she can be quite hard on her subordinates."

"She is," Kel said. "Though, she seems to like Ensign Mel'Chir. I mean, Tchalla and I are similar in a lot of ways...at least I think so. I think she just decided to pick on me. I heard another rumour that her days here may be numbered. We'll see though. I think I can survive."

Jenara smiled. "I wouldn't let it get you down. If I remember correctly, you were a whiz in Interphasics, and that's not exactly an easy course."

"Thank you. I enjoyed the class. But, I've always loved science and stuff like that, so it came easy to me. I hated the defense classes. I think in all the sparring matches, I was beat bad by the people I was paired with. I guess that's why I like hiding in science labs. No Jem'Hadar or Breen in there."

Jenara smiled and began unpacking her things as she continued, "I was always bruised after sparring with the Security cadets. I guess it gave them a big ego boost to beat up on the engineers." Pausing as she took the photo of her parents out, Jen sighed as she thought of home for a moment before placing the picture on an adjacent shelf.

Kelzira watched Jenara for several moments before she frowned. She realized she was staring at the holographic portrait her bunkmate had just put out. "Sofia Marelli is your mother? Would you believe she recorded a version of one of my favourite pieces of music? Hers is the best I've ever heard. It's from a Betazoid musical called Tanna'Rhei. It's a beautiful piece. I actually purchased a recording of it when I was at the academy."

Jenara allowed herself a little smile of pride as she said, "My mom has the most beautiful voice. She always said I had the talent, but I just don't know. She wanted me to go into music as a career, you won't believe how disappointed she was when I said I wanted to tinker with engines for the rest of my life."

"My father won't even talk to me because I went to the Trill acting academy. I thought he'd be happier when I joined Starfleet and became a scientist since that's what he always wanted. At least my mother understands. I haven't talked to him...in several years."

Jenara's face took on a sympathetic look as she said, "I think I was a little more fortunate. My sister Maria decided to enter Starfleet six years ago. That may have softened the blow a little more because I wasn't the only one to shy away from my mother's vision of a future. I think Maria may have a better voice than my mother. Her rendition of Vide Cor Meum is simply breathtaking." Jenara paused and added, "Of course my brother John has no musical talent whatsoever, so naturally he bonded more with my father."

Kelzira laughed softly. "My father wanted nothing to do with his artist daughter, but I still talk to my mother. I didn't have any brothers or sisters." She grinned. "Do you have any recordings of your sister singing?"

Jen pondered the request for a minute, then reached into her bag and retrieved a small disc. With a smile she went to the computer and inserted it into the data slot. Raising her voice she said, "COMPUTER, Please play Alla Luce Del Sole, as per the recording on this disc."

A moment later the smooth orchestral sounds of violins began to play soft melodic chords. A flowing flute solo led into the opening passages of the duet. The first voice, the familiar soprano of Sofia Marelli, began singing the beautiful opening passages of the song. Jenara subconsciously hugged her pillow as the memories of her mother's voice soaring filled her with joy and sadness at the same time. A few moments later, a second voice, Jenara's sister Maria, joined in with perfect harmony.

Kelzira smiled as she listened, closing her eyes and letting the beautiful melodies wash over her. "It's beautiful," she murmured. "I think I heard part of this one in a café on earth. But, it wasn't them. I think it was T'Set of Vulcan and Sharial of Andoria. This version is absolutely beautiful though. They're voices blend so well. Do they ever perform together?"

Redman shook her head. "Not anymore, they used to perform together when Maria was growing up, but mostly at family functions. They were always trying to get me to sing, but I don't think I can even compare to the two of them. Mom says I have a better voice than her, however I think she just says that to boost my confidence."

Kelzira laughed. "I did some singing on stage, but I was never that good," she said. "I mean, I was good, but...I mean, I don't think I could ever sing Alla Luce like that. I guess I'm more of a show tunes girl."

"I'm glad you like music, Kelzira," Jen said. "I think we're going to get along great. What else do you like to do?"

"Other than science, my first passion is theatre. I really hope I get a chance to do some of the off-duty plays on the ship. I know some of the other ships do them, and I just hope we have them here too. Outside of that, I also like to draw and paint and dance. And, I love the holodeck. I think the holodeck is the single most amazing invention in the last century."

"I like to play softball on the holodeck and dress up as a player on one of my favorite teams. My dad taught me how to play the game when I was a little girl. It's amazing to go back in time and have it seem like I was a part of something special," Jen said with a smile. "One time my brother John was being all cocky, and dared me to strike him out. He said there was no way a girl could pull it off. It took about 16 pitches because he kept catching up to my fastball." Pausing to wink. "But the look on his face when I got strike three past him was priceless. He's still a little mad at me to this very day."

Kelzira nodded, not really understanding all of what Jenara was saying, but knowing it was a good thing. "That's great," she said, happy for her bunkmate's accomplishment even if she didn't understand the particulars. "I think we had a sport that was similar on Trill. We called it the bats. I only played a few times when I was younger, but it was a lot of fun."

This got an immediate grin from Jenara as she said, "I love to learn new sports. Keeps me in shape, while I also get to have fun. Perhaps you could show me how to play it sometime."

With a laugh, Kelzira nodded. "Of course," she said. "If I can remember how. I think there are some Trill programs in the holodeck database. I'll check when I have a chance, and we can go there when we're off-duty. So, are you on beta shift too?"

Jenara shook her head. "Nope I was assigned to Alpha Shift for now. Apparently the Chief Engineer wants to keep a close eye on me. I'm not sure if that's a good thing or a bad thing."

Kelzira laughed. "Well, it's better than having him want to sabotage all your work. Beta shift is peaceful though. And, I think all the senior officers like to watch the green ensigns just out of the Academy. I think they need to make sure we know what we're doing. Of course, I've got four other lifetimes of experience bouncing around in my head now, but the lieutenant was still acting like I hadn't even attended my first day at the Academy yet."

Jenara nodded then asked, "What is it like to have a symbiont inside of you? Does it move around a lot? I don't know if I could ever go through that."

"If I had to do it again, I don't know if I would, but...but I guess I'm starting to get used to it. It doesn't really move, but I tend to feel queasy a lot. It's weird to remember something, and then realize it was something that happened to Epharyn or Kyrii. In a way it's like making some new friends too. I don't know if that answered your questions. It's disorienting, amazing, fascinating, and nauseating all at the same time."

Jen shook her head in amazement. "I don't envy you, Kelzira." Glancing at the chronometer, she stood up and said, "Oh my. Alpha Shift is coming quickly. I better get some sleep if I want to be on top of my game tomorrow."

Kelzira smiled. "Well, I guess I'll let you get that sleep then," she said. "In the morning, I have to beam down to the planet for a science survey. It'll be my first Away Team! So, as soon as I finish going through all this, I need to get my sleep too. I'll try to stay quiet over here until I do though."

Jenara politely nodded and went about getting ready for bed. Within moments she was resting comfortably and had fallen asleep. Kelzira tried her best to be as unobtrusive as possible as she returned to the stack of padds on her bed. There was so much data from the original scan of the system, and she had to know as much of it as she could. Of course, it was only a matter of reading it all. She knew that once she did, if she wasn't half-asleep while reading it, that she would remember every word. She picked up a padd detailing several of the plants from the section of the planet she'd be studying in the morning. All they had were basic images from the initial scans and probes. Tomorrow it would be her duty to get samples. Kelzira yawned, but kept on reading. It would be a long night.

---