"Let's Unpack"
By: CPO Calyca Boothroyd, Engineering
Crewman 1st Class Sorg Jurell, Security

Location: USS Sulu, Various
Stardate: 57910.29 02h15

***

"Boothroyd to Operations... My gear is ready anytime you'd like to transport it," she told the duty officer.

"Ops here. Sounds good, Chief. Enjoy your new quarters." Was there a huge smirking grin in that last bit? If there was, Caly certainly didn't care. She looked up at Sorg as the blue light of the transporter took all her stuff except the pack she held on dearly to.

"Okay... I don't mind telling you that this is some scary ass shit, Jurell," she admitted, and had that 'what the hell am I doing?' look. "I mean.... I know it's what we both want... Really... But I don't want to wind up like T'Kal and Lyrr..." Xay's comparison from the party came back to remind her of what it could be like. "Or calloused and jaded like Tagliesh... I mean... Something happened to make her like that.... What if it was moving in with the Captain? And T'Kal and Lyrr are a really good reason not to even have a relationship..." She took a breath and let it out in a soft huff. She was rambling pretty badly now. "I mean... Toenails aside... There could be lots of other things you don't ... Well, that we don't like... Yanno? And then where would we be? Throwing things at each other probably..."

Jurell's soft chortling laugh and the look in his eyes told her that none of those things would happen to them. He leaned down and tilted her chin upwards and planted a very gentle kiss on her lips and then as he drew away he whispered, "I doesn't matter what anyone else does, or says." He smiled as his palm touched her cheek. "None of those things will ever happen to us. I promise."

Caly let her breath out in another soft huff as she gazed up at him, her eyes still registering the kiss. "Alright... But if they do, I'm gonna be pretty put out, you know," she warned him and her hand slipped up to rub the back of his much larger one. "Let's do this then.... I have huge dragonflies bouncing around my insides, Jurell. Just so you know..." she grumbled softly and lifted her arms up to him.

He grinned widely as he scooped her up. "You are soo lucky. I have targs running around in mine..." and chuckled, "and they're being chased by a couple of angry Klingons." He looked sideways at her. "My mother warned me about girls like you. She said one day that some woman would come along and club me from behind...when I wasn't looking...and that I'd like it!" He set off toward the door. "I hate my mother...she's always right," he grumbled.

Calyca blinked. "Targs? And Klingons? Christ, Jurell." She held on a little more tightly. "I am so not trading," she added and kissed him softly on the ear. "And I'll bet your mom didn't know any women like me to even warn you about. Besides, I didn't 'club you from behind'... I think I danced on your toes instead... I'm going to like your mother. Mine didn't tell me about big Bajorans who'd steal my heart and make me forget the periodic table."

"Oh I think she knew." He grinned. "She probably even gave you a book on the subject...but you'd have put it in the same cupboard as the one on how babies are made," he chuckled.

"Hah! I'll have you know that one wound up in the recycler," she smirked at him. "So I didn't feel guilty about replicating another book on cybernetics and programming AI's. Besides... I know how babies are made... I just don't know about all the...the...fluffy stuff that goes with it."

"Fluffy?" He glanced at her with a skeptical look as he marched out into the corridor. "I've been called many diabolical things in my life, but fluffy wasn't one of them." He tossed her over his shoulder gripping her around the knees as she flew over his back. He slapped her ass. "I'll give you fluffy," he groused as he nodded amiably to an operations officer who promptly burst into laughter as Caly squealed.

"Hey!" she thumped his back and glared at the Operations officer even as she offered a tight-lipped and "sir" nod. "Scoundrel!" she thumped Jurell's back again. "It's a damn good thing I like you so much... Otherwise I wouldn't put up with all your... Fluffy stuff! Big Bajoran Brute! I'm so telling your mom..." She was trying hard not to laugh by this point. "Or maybe my father..." She propped an elbow on his back and her chin in her hand. "Except...he'd probably just laugh...."

"Yeah," he slapped her ass again. "Good thing I adore you. You tell my mom all you want. I'm her blue eyed boy and I can't do anything wrong as far as she's concerned...just wait 'til your father gets the bill for the wedding."

"Hey!! I bruise easy!" She reached a hand back to rub the offended spot on her rear end. "Brute! You're so gonna have to make this up to me," she warned him. "I need to have a serious talk with your mom about her 'blue-eyed boy'," she snorted softly. "Although... You do have some incredible blue eyes," she admitted on a softer, more dreamy note. "And wait till you see the lavish spectacle my dad will want to make with his money..." She smiled sweetly at the snickering Security crewman that passed by them. "We're gonna be breakfast talk," she pointed out to Jurell as she watched the crewman disappear around the corner.

"Probably," he replied airily. "And you do not bruise easily," he grinned slyly. He tossed her back into his arms as they approached the turbo-lift, and she squealed again and giggled as he held her more properly. "Better not bring too much disrepute to your rank," he grinned. "Otherwise some poor crewman will get the idea that you like this."

"Hah. Who says I don't?" she murmured and tightened her hold around his neck.

"I know I do." He grinned and kissed the end of her nose.

He stepped into the lift, and there were two others standing at the back, wide eyed that the big Security Crewman was carrying a Chief Petty Officer. Caly grinned at them while Jurell just nodded amiably and said, "Deck three."

Acantha Skorikos, an operations crewman grinned up at Calyca as the lift started to move. "I hear congratulations are in order, Chief," she said in her lilting accent. The dark complexioned woman gave Jurell a grin. "It's nice to see you have him well trained."

"Why thank you, Crewman," Caly responded and wondered how it was she had him trained exactly.

The other girl giggled, covering her mouth with a hand. "Congrats Chief," she said. "You too, Crewman," she added with another giggle. She wore a cadet's uniform and looked very young. "You wouldn't have any younger brothers would you?" she asked mischievously.

"And thank you, Cadet," Caly smiled at her and winked. "He's one of a kind though. They broke the mould when they made him," she told her with an impish grin.

The Chief waived to them both when the lift reached Deck three and then whispered to Jurell, "Trained in what exactly?"

"Must be that satisfied expression on your face," he replied nonchalantly. "Women can usually pick up stuff like that...you know, subliminal messages, like that ball-and-chain look in your eyes when ever you look at me in mixed company. The this is mine look that you give to other women who smile in my direction. I guess it's the same one I have when another guy checks out your ass."

Caly blinked. "Check out my ass? Other guys are checking out my ass?" she blinked again and snorted softly. "Christ... And just what do you mean, 'ball-and-chain' look in my eyes? I do not have a 'ball-and-chain' look in my eyes," she defended herself. "I'll admit to the 'this is mine' thing though." She huffed out a soft breath. "Wait... Did you say you had a 'ball-and-chain' look?"

"Ohh yeahhh," he agreed, "you're my girl, Calyca Boothroyd, and I'm quite happy to be chained to you for the rest of my life." He winked at her as she blushed again. "Your ass is worthy of being checked out," he grinned. " 'Specially in that leather outfit...you have no idea just how desirable you are do you?" he chuckled. "I love that about you. No pretentious girlie crap to deal with...just a completely open and honest girl who says what she means and doesn't try to manipulate...you are one in a quadrillion girl. And you're all mine."

"Leather chafes," she snorted softly. Her face was still red. "And I wouldn't know how to do 'girlie crap' if my life depended on it," she admitted. "And okay... I'll admit to being yours. But that goes both ways, yanno... I never could figure out what the fascination was with asses...."

"What? You don't like my ass?" he asked with mock disbelief. "You have a very and I mean very sexy ass. In fact on some days, it was the talk of the security ward room...of course that was before I staked a claim on it."

"Well of course I like your a--" she began. "Wait... You mean you actually sat around and talked about my ass?"

"Oh hell yes." He grinned. "You'd be surprised." He winked. "Ahhh 312B." He stopped outside a door. "You do the honours." He indicated the door pad, and shifted her a little and kissed her. It was a long kiss, and he broke for air leaving her slightly gasping. "This is a special occasion," he whispered. "Not to be taken lightly." He liked it when she brushed her fingers in his hair at the back of his neck, as she was doing now. Her green eyes were huge, and her lips trembled slightly as he gazed at her in that way again.

And she was gazing right back at him in that way. "Not to be taken lightly," she whispered back softly, her eyes never left his and her lips were close enough that he could feel her warm breath caressing him when she spoke. "It's very special," she agreed and reached her hand back to press a thumb against the pad. "Computer open the door of Sorg Jurell and Calyca Boothroyd's quarters. Booter authorization code: Holmes Three Nine Two Sherlock."

The door of their new quarters whooshed quietly open and their things were waiting there for them in the center of the living area.

Jurell took a deep breath, almost bracing himself as he looked in. He glanced at the floor where the bulkhead separated the corridor from the room and then glanced again at Caly. "Well...once in...in for good," he said seriously. "You sure about this? No reservations?" She could see the blue eyes were filled with anxiety, as if he feared that she would have second thoughts.

She gazed deeply into his eyes and let out her own breath in a soft huff. "Tons," she admitted and her arms tightened around his neck. "But none that you don't already know. And none that you don't make me forget when you look at me like that," she whispered softly. "Je t`aime, Sorg Jurell. Even with all the doubts and reservations and being scared to death." She drew in another soft breath. "And if you don't take that step, I'll carry you in," she mock threatened. He could feel her heart was pounding in her chest as she pressed her breasts against him. And he could tell by the look in her eyes that she was perilously close to tears.

The relief was surprising, as if he'd fully expected her to change her mind at the last second. He smiled and nodded, not taking his eyes from hers. "I love you," he whispered, and with a huff of breath he stepped through the door. It closed behind him with a satisfying swoosh. It was funny. He started laughing softly. "Too late now," he grinned.

"And I've got you in my clutches..." she grinned back, agreeing with his 'too late'. He could feel her body relax against his, an indication of just how scared and anxious she'd been herself. "I thought you might change your mind," she admitted.

"Me?" He shook his head. "No way, girl," he laughed softly. "I was afraid you might though." He stepped away from the door and swung her around in a circle exuberantly. "Home sweet home, baby," he grinned and then he laughed as he kissed her. "Let's unpack."

---

"Favours"
by Lieutenant Xayella Tagliesh
and Lieutenant Mark Thaine

Stardate: 57910.29, 07h00
Location: Mark Thaine's quarters, USS Sulu

***

BEEP! BEEP! BEEP!

The Chief Engineer groaned.

BEEP! BEEP! BEEP!

"Shut up!" Finding the first thing that came to hand, a genuine paperback compilation of Keats poetry flew across the room.

BEEP! (Thud!) BEEP! BEEP!

"Alright, I'm up, I'm up! Computer, shut that the hell off!"

The beeping stopped as Mark Thaine half fell, half stumbled out of bed and the motion sensors became satisfied he was not returning to sleep. Briefly cursing at the far too effective alarm system he had set up, he glared at the replicator, as if daring it to misbehave.

"Coffee," he demanded. "Black."

***

Thaine wasn't the only one who would have cared for a few more hours sleep, judging from Ito's yawn as he walked into Main Engineering. She smiled, offered a cheerful "Morning Chief!" and handed him a PADD. "Report from Gamma shift," she told him. "The one from Beta is already in your office."

"Thanks." He took the PADD, skimming it over. "Sounds like it was a boring night. Finished the transporter diagnostics ahead of schedule though."

"Gives us a chance to look at those warp engine alignments command sent over, huh Chief?" Eagerness replaced any traces of tiredness in the Petty Officer's voice.

"Sure does," said Thaine, nodding to her. "Give me half an hour to check over these reports, and I'll see you in my office."

"Aye, sir," answered Ito, already moving to her station, while Thaine continued to his office. As he passed the small window, he noticed something in the corner of his eye, and looked up in a mixture of surprise and outrage to see a pair of rather attractive legs resting on his desk.

Unable to see who the legs belonged to from his vantage point, he quickly strode around the door, which opened with a hiss.

A sultry smile shot his way and green eyes flashed with mischief. "Hello, dear. Hard day at work?"

"Bloody hells," said Thaine, as he stood at the door. "It's you again. Do I have to fit a lock to my door to keep you out?"

Lieutenant Tagliesh draped one elbow over the chairback as she twisted to regard him more fully, pulling her skirt farther up her thighs. "Come now," she chided, still smirking, "you've missed me. Admit it. What would your day be like without a visit from the woman who's captured your heart?"

Thaine stepped into the room, the door closing behind him with a hiss. "I've missed you like I miss warp core breaches. Now get out of my chair, tell me what you want, and go back to your lab."

Xay pouted as she swung her legs off the desktop. "Not a morning person, I see," she quipped and rounded the desk with hands held up innocently as she sought out the other chair. "I really did come for something work-related...if you'll give a listen."

Not taking his eyes from Xay for a moment, Thaine moved to his own seat, behind his desk. "I'm listening," he said, as he sat down. "You broken the sensors or something?"

She chuckled. "Not me. That was our dear Commander Lyrr's doing when she brought this ship limping along through the gateway. But you're right, it is the sensors I wanted to talk about." Xayella leaned forward in her seat. "My department is tracking an extraordinary stellar phenomenon, but without these damn sensors at full capacity, we haven't the tools to acquire the appropriate readings." Her smile was sweet and her eyes soft - an expression others might have found irresistible enough to grant her whatever she desired, but Thaine wasn't one of those people. "Do you...maybe...think you could bump those repairs to the sensor systems to a higher priority?"

"No," said Thaine, and he looked back down at his PADD.

Xayella gaped. "What do you mean!? I need those sensors operational! I'm sending a team out there via shuttle to get a closer look, and without sensors up to par, it'll be a total waste of time." Narrowing her eyes at Thaine, she accused, "You're doing this intentionally. You're knowingly sabotaging my work!"

"You know, the universe doesn't revolve around you, Lieutenant." Thaine looked up with a glare. "I've got a hell of a lot more that needs fixing than your sensors, including making sure this ship lands safely on the planet. Your sensors come bottom of the list. Besides," he added, looking down at his PADD again, "you sat in my chair."

"You weren't using it!" she protested, leaping out of her own to loom over the desk. "Without those sensors, we can't do what this damned ship was commissioned for: exploration! Now stop being a stubborn oaf and get those sensors working!" And mustering her most flattering smile, she added prettily, "Please?"

"Will you stop pestering me if I do so? And quit sitting in my chair?"

Xayella chuckled as she planted both hands on his desk and leaned in towards him. "I do so swear. Though, you can't tell me you don't enjoy my impromptu visits." She winked at him. "Especially with these legs."

Thaine seemed to ignore the wink, though it perhaps gave him cause to relent slightly. "Alright, alright," he said. "You keep out of my chair, and I'll see what I can do to get those sensors fixed. But only when we've got the major repairs done. Deal?"

"When we've--!" Xayella bit her lip in mid-protest, then managed a smile around tightly clenched teeth. "Deal," she agreed reluctantly. "Though I don't understand why you have to be so mean about things all the time." Sighing airily, she sauntered towards the door. "Lieutenant, you really need a woman to loosen you up," Xayella commented near the door, then shot him a sly grin over one shoulder. "And no, that wasn't an offer."

"Good," commented Thaine. "Go on, get out of here!"

Xayella puckered her lips, though whether in a mock kiss or a pout was unclear. With a chuckle, she tossed her hair over one shoulder and sauntered from his office with hips swaying far too lasciviously. "See you soon, dear," she sang for added pestering before the door slid shut behind her.

Thaine sighed, rubbing the bridge of his nose. Somehow, he doubted he'd seen the last of the science officer, even if she had promised to keep out of his chair from now on.

---

"Work and Politics"
By Lieutenant Mark Thaine, Chief Engineer,
CPO Calyca Boothroyd, Engineering Crewchief

Location: Main Engineering
Stardate: 57910.29, 07h30

***

"Okay, Mister Blacksby, I'm ready." Calyca was standing in the center of her and Jurell's quarters, her legs supported in a sleek, marvel of engineering that had been perfected and improved over the hundreds of years since its conception. A self-powered, lower extremity exoskeleton which made it possible for her to walk on her own. In her case, what it did was kept her muscles from becoming fatigued, which in turn still played havoc on her nerve impulses.

"Alright, Chief. Hang on, energizing now," Blacksby responded and Caly was encased in the blue transporter light.

Calyca caught a glimpse of the Science Chief leaving Main Engineering as she materialized. It was another second before she got her bearings, adjusted her pack and walked to Thaine's office, poking her head inside before entering. "Do I need to bring a food offering before we get started?" she asked him with a smile, knowing how grumpy he could be in the mornings, especially with Tagliesh just leaving.

Thaine looked up. "No, but you could bring a coffee in. No, forget it, let's just get started. Come in, then, and sit down. Computer, start the imaging array diagnostic program, and bring it the report up on my console." Mark turned his display unit side on, and moved around the edge of his desk so that they could both see it.

Caly entered his office and settled into a chair, making herself comfortable. "Bad morning, sir?" she asked as she lowered her pack to the deck and turned her focus onto the display. She was watching for anything that looked odd, regardless if it had to do with the imaging array. Any inconsistency in the way the program itself behaved.

"Uninvited company," Thaine explained. "See anything? The computer should throw up any of the obvious errors as causes, but sometimes it misses things."

"I don't envy you the politics of your job," she offered quietly, letting him know she understood as she scooted to the edge of her chair and leaned forward to study the display a little closer. "Nothing concrete," she mused. "But there is a something right here..." she extended her finger and pointed to where she was talking about. "Does that look a wee bit.... off to you?"

Thaine frowned. "You're right. All these error reports are whenever it tries to access the sub-routines located in a specific sector..." He rubbed his chin. "Could we be looking at a physical failure in part of the computer itself? What else is stored in that sector?"

"I don't know why it couldn't be a physical failure. It has the earmarks now that we're looking for it.." Caly mused thoughtfully. "Hmmm... Isn't that where it calls for the Main Sensor Array," she asked, which could explain part of the trouble they were having there.

"Computer, run a separate diagnostic check on part of the main core. Start in sector...." Thaine looked back to the diagnostic monitor. "Two-three-three, and continue to two-four-zero." He looked back to Caly. "We'll know in a minute, I guess. How're you this morning?" Typical for Thaine, the social pleasantries were tacked on and around his work, which generally worked well for her also.

"Quite well actually, sir. Thank you for asking," she smiled over at him. "I think I'll be doing away with this thing in another week. Maybe less," she rapped lightly on the exoskeleton at her thigh. "I've been studying the design and its functionality, and I think it can be improved on. I was thinking of writing up some design changes and submitting them to Starfleet Medical," she told him rather conversationally and then 'hmmm'd' thoughtfully as she watched the monitor. "That looked like a glitch..." she peered a little closer.

Thaine looked at the display, showing the ongoing results for the new diagnostic. "Computer, report?"

"Unknown error in sector two-three-eight," the computer responded calmly.

Thaine looked across at Booter. "Found it. Wasn't in the array at all."

"And doesn't that just figure," Caly grinned wryly at him. "It's like trying to find something that's lost.... You look everywhere you know it could possibly be, and then you finally find it somewhere totally where it's not supposed to be. That," she tapped the display with a short, manicured nail and Jurell's Betrothal Bracelet peeked out a bit from under her sleeve. "Hopefully won't be too difficult to repair. Although I don't like the Unknown, so it may take a wee bit of time to find out exactly what it is."

"Well...before we head down there, Booter, we need to talk about something." He sighed, growing serious. "This...Enforcer business. I'm gonna talk to the Commander, and get something formal down about how I don't agree with this. But if it's straight from the Captain, we've both got to follow orders on this. And I figure I've got to ask you this, what with everything that happened, and what you've already said...would you be able to work with one? Or have one of them in this department?"

Caly let her breath out in a ragged huff, unprepared for the question or to answer it. She unconsciously rubbed her legs and the exoskeleton that made it possible right now for her to walk for any length of time. It had only been seven days since they'd taken back the ship and her neck still displayed the evidence from the collar that had been imposed on her by them. It was unfair for him to ask this of her right now. And it was grossly unfair of the Captain to ask it of his crew. She closed her eyes against the sudden visual of Shyla's beating.... That had only been ten days ago... That's all... Ten.

She swallowed past the lump in her throat and her knuckles turned white as they gripped her brace on her thighs. She knew the only reason she was able to hold it together now was because of Jurell. She had buried herself in him and in the work she pushed herself to do. But being faced every day with one of them... When she lifted her lids to look up at Thaine, the vibrant green of her eyes was dulled and haunted. The visible slump of her shoulders eloquently expressed how defeated she felt right then, and how vulnerable.

"God help me, sir.... Orders or not... I won't be able to look at one of them right now and not remember them walking the corridors in full riot gear... With weapons and painsticks and collar controls... I can't dismiss so easily what happened and what they did... To all of us. Maybe in six months... Or a year... But now?" Her eyes pleaded with him to understand. "I can't trust them to even clean the deck...." She drew in a shaky breath and let it out in a huff. "I'll do what I'm ordered. You know that. But I won't feel safe and I honestly don't think anyone in this department would... They are the enemy, sir. Not some refugees we rescued and saved from a fate worse then death... Officers of the Empire... A sadistic, twisted..." she drew in another breath and shuddered against the memories of what she witnessed on the station. Even now she could feel her stomach churning and the feeling of panic rising to make breathing difficult.

She was about to embarrass herself with tears and she closed her eyes for a moment as she pressed trembling fingers to the bridge of her nose. And then she answered him honestly and with a deep resignation in her voice. "I don't think I could, sir..."

Thaine nodded, and spoke with surprising gentleness. "Okay. Okay. I had to ask, that's all. Come on," he changed the subject, standing up. "Let's go sort the computer out."

Caly drew in a breath and let it out before nodding. "Aye sir, and I understand." She rose to her feet and offered him a genuine smile. It told him she was grateful for his understanding, and that she was alright... Or would be. Time was a wonderful healer. "You lead and I'll follow." She shouldered her pack and looked at him expectantly. And indeed she did follow as he lead the way down to the computer core, to tackle the array problem at its source.

---

"Building Trust"
Kirsha Dublai
Lt. Brennyn Scott, RN - Chief Counselor/Nurse

Location: Lt. Scott's Office, USS Sulu
Stardate: 57910.29, 13h00

***

No longer in shackles, but still flanked by two security officers, the tall, sinuous Andorian ex-enforcer was led down the Sulu's corridor. As if on display, all passing eyes shifted to catch a glimpse of her, and express emotions varying from indifference, to outright disgust. Kirsha Dublai greeted them all with a charming smile.

They could hate her all they wanted, but she knew she was just as capable as any two officers combined. Uprooted from her former universe, this was to be her home now, yet it seemed the Sulu's crew had more trouble dealing with that fact than she. Then why am I the one forced to counselling sessions?

Sighing resignedly, she completed the long trek to Scott's office. One of the guards activated the doorchime to announce their arrival. Neither of them made a single move towards removing her cuffs.

It was a rather sober Brennyn Scott who greeted the former Enforcer and her guards at the door. Normally polite and somewhat upbeat upon greeting visitors, it was hard for Scott to know what to do upon seeing a former captor cuffed and at her door. She was keenly aware of what had been done to her crew, and yet, she also knew she had to make an effort to integrate them with the very people they had harmed. It was a process that began with a single step.

"Hello," she greeted. I'm Brennyn Scott. Please, come in."

And before they could enter, Bree stopped the guards from crossing the threshold. "I'd appreciate it if you would remove her cuffs and wait outside the door until we're finished. I'll yell for you if I run into any trouble, but I don't think there's anything to worry about," and she turned her gaze to Kirsha, "is there?"

The Andorian smiled inscrutably. "Of course not. I promise to be on my best behaviour." And considering her past, it was hardly comforting reassurance.

"Lieutenant Scott," the guard warned, "are you sure about this?"

"Yes, I am," Bree lied convincingly. "If T'Kal has a problem with it, tell him to make an appointment." Inwardly she was smiling at that bit of irony. "You're dismissed."

The security guards nodded curtly. The taller of the two, and the one who had protested, removed Kirsha's restraints less than delicately. The Andorian smirked at the discomfort inflicted by the man, then stepped into the counsellor's office.

"We'll remain out here if you need us," the guard said, then both disappeared behind the sealed doors.

Bree turned her attention from the closed doors to the room's only other occupant. "How have they been treating you? Are you comfortable? Do you need anything? Besides your freedom," she added hastily.

Kirsha kept her eyes locked to the Counsellor's and delayed her response an unsettlingly long while. Her face wore no expression, yet her antennae poked the air around her to detect any volatile cues being emitted by the counsellor. She was undoubtedly sizing up her competition. Finally, she cracked a smile and languidly rested one hand upon her hip. "May I have a seat, or do we stand to do this?"

Bree smiled, not concerned in the least by Kirsha's silence. Scott was accustomed to waiting for answers since she generally didn't ask easy questions. "Feel free to sit anywhere you like," she replied, gesturing to the various plush seats in the room.

Kirsha ensconced herself in the only armchair in Scott's office. She shifted against its back, testing the downy stuffing's quality, while smoothing her hands over the fabric covering her armrests. "Nice chair," she commented. "Do you think I could own one when I get my own quarters?" Kirsha was smiling shrewdly. "Isn't that what we're here to discuss, Counsellor? My liberation from imprisonment?"

Dublai's arrogance and non-chalance served only to remind Scott of her uphill battle, and perhaps doomed assignment, to somehow 'rehabilitate' these ex-Enforcers. It was instinct for her to speak politely with those whom she counseled, but hearing Kirsha speak, Bree was only reminded of the things that had been done to her crew. Was she really to believe this arrogance was a facade formed by a lifetime in the amoral and heartless mirrorverse? "Not at all. As I told Tebrianne Bancroft, it is my hope that you will one day find a place amongst this crew, and that you will one day be trusted, but you will have to earn that right. You're here today in order for me to determine whether you're deserving of such an opportunity. Are you interested in joining the Sulu crew?"

"I'm interested in working," Kirsha replied. "I don't care who I do that with, even if it's your fellow officers despite how much they despise me." She grinned. "I'm not a murderer, if that's what you or anyone else is thinking. I'm an engineer, and although I was part of the group who seized your ship, I didn't lay a hand on anyone and had no intention of doing so. I didn't want to be here as much as your people didn't want me to be." Shrugging, she added, "If they can get over their misconceptions about me, then I'd join the crew in a second."

Bree was more than a little disconcerted by the fact Kirsha was smiling when she discussed simply going along with capture of the Sulu. "And if they don't get over their perceptions of you? Would you still be willing to work here?"

Kirsha shrugged. "Where else would I go? Back to my own universe?" She chuckled harshly. "I'm stuck here; I have a new life to start, and I might as well start it on this ship."

"There's always the brig," Scott remarked evenly, "followed by a stay in a penal colony once we return to the Alpha Quadrant." Bree leaned forward. "For the record, I think that would be a tremendous waste of your skill, and I don't want to see that happen. But you will encounter resistance from the Sulu crew the likes of which you've never seen. They're going to try to provoke you. What I want to know is what you're going to do about it."

"What I've always done." Kirsha smiled slyly. "I'll use my sexual prowess to endear them to me." At Scott's unimpressed look, she appended, "That, or ignore them as one learns to do when living in that barbaric universe I once inhabited. Trust me, Counsellor...I've gone through enough conflict in my life that a few harsh words from some bitter officers will hardly faze me."

"And if it's more than words from more than a handful of the crew?"

Kirsha smirked. "Then they're not so different from me after all, are they? Which means they should have no gripe, and I should have no problems. Right?"

Brennyn looked pensive. The truth was she had no idea what her crew were capable of. "What can you tell me about yourself? I'm interested in hearing about your life in the mirrorverse and beyond."

"What's to know?" Kirsha dismissed casually. "I was an engineer and a soldier. I killed when I had to, seduced when I needed a favour, and otherwise did what was required of me to survive. There's nothing really of interest there, Counsellor."

"On the contrary," Scott replied. "Despite the challenges you might encounter, I think you'll find the Sulu quite different from what you knew. For starters, if you need a favor, you only need to ask. No one will expect seduction or your submission in return. It's my hope that you never knew such violence in your lifetime."

"It's a false hope, Counsellor," Kirsha informed her with a wry smile. "The violence you encountered when those enforcers were on board is the same I witnessed in my universe. There was no escaping it." She paused and gazed down at her hands folded in her lap now. Kirsha chuckled in bemusement. "Or maybe I already have. But...that remains to be seen, doesn't it?"

Scott's lips thinned, her stiff air easing slightly. "I'm not leaving you to flounder alone, Kirsha. You will have to prove yourself, yes, but I want this to be a safe place for you and your colleagues. Adjusting to the Sulu, coming to terms with the violence you witnessed, and perhaps personally experienced, will not be easy. After being on guard for so long and now being in another new place... I mean you no harm, and I will help you however I can." She hoped Dublai could see her words were sincere. "In this room, you are safe."

"And what have you decided on allowing me to roam freely outside of it?" Kirsha asked.

"Freely?" Scott shook her head. "I'm afraid that isn't part of this arrangement. You'll be released from the brig and given secure quarters. You'll have a curfew and you won't be able to leave your quarters unescorted until such time that we feel we can trust you and ensure your safety."

Kirsha leaned forward, smiling at the counsellor. "And do you trust me?"

"No," replied Brennyn without missing a beat, "not yet. But I suspect you don't trust me either...yet."

"You hold my freedom in your hands, Counsellor," Kirsha pointed out. "I have no choice but to trust you."

Scott gave her a knowing smile. "That's not exactly true, is it, Kirsha? You have no choice but to bide your time, yes, but trusting me is another matter entirely... Even so, I'd like to think we can come to trust each other eventually. I suspect you have a lot you'd like to get off your chest. If all your men are like Hadek, I can't imagine how that could not be true."

Kirsha snorted derisively and adopted a disaffected pose as she leaned back in her chair. "You think I was forced into sex with men from my universe? Do you know much about Andorian physiology, Counsellor? Andorian females are far stronger than human males." She grinned smugly. "The men had more to fear from me than I had from them, Counsellor. I'm afraid you can dig as much as you like, but you won't find anything down that path."

"And I would be much relieved," Scott remarked, "But I wasn't referring to rape specifically. Men like Hadek know what they want and what they can take from every individual. I've no doubt he, or any other man in your universe, would violate you sexually if he could, but that doesn't mean he hasn't tried or that he hasn't hurt you in other ways. Sometimes even just witnessing things can leave a lasting impression."

"Not on me," Kirsha stated assuredly. "When you grow up surrounded by such violence, it no longer affects you after a time. If you allow yourself to be bothered by it...you wouldn't live a very long and happy life. Is there something so wrong with that?"

Brennyn shrugged. "Have you lived a long and happy life? Or are you simply telling me what I want to hear?"

Kirsha smirked. "I've lived. I could ask for nothing more."

"So I'll take that as a no," Bree replied smoothly. "What aren't you telling me?"

"About?" Kirsha shot back without pause.

"Your life. Perhaps the brushes with death that make you glad you're alive, but also making you believe you deserve nothing more."

Kirsha chuckled. "Who says I don't deserve something more than the life I've had? I simply said that I've been lucky in what I have had. Maybe I deserve something more...maybe I don't, but as long as I'm happy with where I am, does that really matter?"

Now it was Bree's turn to smile. "I get the feeling you haven't been happy with where you were for a long time, but it is my sincerest hope that you will be someday. As for what you feel you deserve, I was merely referring to what you said about not being able to ask anything more but to live. I truly hope you will do more here than simply survive."

"If I'm given the freedom to," Kirsha added. "But that's up to you, isn't it?"

"It's up to you," Bree corrected. "I'm prepared to recommend that you leave the brig, but how much freedom you have will depend on whether you earn it by following the rules."

"I'm not a child, Counsellor," Kirsha drawled. "I can follow a few simple rules. Besides" --she waved a hand lazily in dismissal-- "I am capable of controlling myself. You won't find me rampaging through the ship in a bloodlust." Her smile was disarming. "Even though Andorians do love a good bloodletting."

"A word of advice," replied Bree darkly, "when looking to me to grant your freedom from the brig, don't use the words 'bloodletting.' A simple thank you will suffice."

Kirsha laughed softly in appreciation of the counsellor's humour. "I can do that," she mused, and bowed her head low. "Thank you, Counsellor."

"You're welcome," Bree replied with a grin.

Upon her dismissal, as Kirsha waited for the security officers to fetter her once more, she thought curiously of how she had likely secured her first ally among the Sulu's crew. Although one would hardly make a difference, it was still a start.

---

"A Waste of Time"
by Dwayne Sanchez
Andrea Collins

Location: USS Sulu, mess hall
Stardate: 57910.29 17h30

***

Dwayne had finished a short segment of his shift and decided he should head for the mess hall for something to eat. He was hungry, hungrier than usual it seemed. As of late, he'd been spending a lot of time at Kelzira and Tchalla's quarters and having a great time. He was beginning to wonder if Amy missed him, for a change, but at the moment, he wasn't sure if that was important anymore. He felt like she'd brushed him off, even if it was for a good reason, and for some reason he hadn't liked how that felt.

He arrived at the mess hall and headed for the counter. He'd taken up a tray and began to get his meal when the doors opened to admit Ensign Collins. He sighed as he'd turned, hearing the door and seeing who had just walked in. She was in full uniform, but still she walked with the walk of someone who should have been on Risa walking the streets. He despised her and she didn't seem to realize that in the least. He was beginning to think he would have to complain to the captain about her behavior towards him.

Andrea grinned seeing Dwayne. She noticed that he was the one at the end of the line and that pleased her. She walked over and took up a tray. She gathered her meal, keeping her gaze mostly on Dwayne. She watched him as he walked from the counter with his tray and took a seat at a table. She followed him, her tray also filled, and sat at the same table. She smirked at him when he glanced up to see her join him.

"What do you want?" he asked her.

She slid her gaze down his form in a flirtatious manner. "What do you think I want."

"Don't you get the hint? I don't want anything to do with you."

"Oh, I hear the words, but your eyes say something different."

"You're not reading them very well, then, if you see something that isn't there," Dwayne replied as he started on his meal.

"Oh, I think I am," Andrea shot back.

"You are wasting your time...I'm not interested," Dwayne came back.

Andrea stood up, having not eaten a thing on her tray but feasting on Dwayne's features. "Oh, I don't think I am...I think you will eventually come to my hand...it will just take time."

Dwayne stood up, shouting, "YOU ARE WASTING YOUR TIME, BITCH...I WILL NEVER TURN TO YOU." He then left the table, leaving the tray behind him, and Andrea standing there, a wide smirk on her face.

---

"Determination"
By: Lt. Shirik Lektar, Operations
CPO Calyca Boothroyd, Engineering

Location: Boothroyd and Sorg's quarters, USS Sulu
Stardate: 57910.29, 18h00

***

Shirik was in a bad mood, probably one of the worst since she'd come aboard the Sulu. She was agitated and felt like a caged animal, even though she was in no way restrained. Kept out of a cage was more like it.

She had nothing to do now but wait and bide her time until she could confront Commander Lyrr, so she decided to spend some of that time with her friend, who she'd not seen nearly enough of for her liking. She rang the chime and waited to be let in.

Caly looked up from the isoliner chip she was testing when the door chimed. "Computer who's at the door?" She was in the living room part of their quarters tucked into a corner with her 'work area' engineering had set up for her.

"Lt. Shirik Lektar," the computer answered promptly.

"Ahh.... Unlock the door and let her in, please. Booter authorization Watson-Alpha-One-Nine-Jurell." The door promptly whooshed open and Caly turned the anti-grav chair she was using to face her friend.

"Shiri. I'm glad y--" Her words died at the look at Shirik's face. "What happened?"

Shirik stalked in, but her scowling expression softened considerably at the sight of her friend in the chair. She let out a sigh as she moved to sit near her. "You haven't heard about what happened to Ben?" she asked.

"Mm.... I have actually. Or heard what little Jurell knows," Caly answered. "I also heard the surgery went well and he's expected to recover fully..."

"I've been trying to get in to visit him all day," Shirik frowned. "The nurses keep sending me away. Apparently Commander Lyrr has limited visits to him to senior staff... and Tebrianne Bancroft."

Caly blinked at that. "She did? Why?" Unless it was to specifically exclude Shirik.... "Wouldn't the doctors want his friends to visit him? I'd have thought that would be beneficial...."

"Damned if I know, but I intend to find out," Shirik said, with a tone and a look in her eyes Caly had seen before. "I'm waiting until the ship landing is finished and I can hunt Lyrr down."

Calyca's eyes widened just a bit at the tone and the look. "Well, perhaps she's feeling a wee bit over protective and territorial..." she suggested helpfully. "I know I would if it was Jurell..."

"When isn't she?" Shirik frowned. "I swear she's as insane as the rest of the senior staff." She got up to pace, and it was clear she was venting frustration in the only way she knew how. "I somehow doubt you would keep Jurell's closest friends from visiting him when he'd been mortally wounded, even if you were jealous of them."

The engineer watched her friend pacing and blinked at her words. "Perhaps... I'd do what's best for Jurell. Whatever that happened to be," Caly admitted honestly. "I feel rather sorry for Lyrr if she's jealous..."

"So do I," she said, stopping her pacing to look at her friend. "She's always been insecure about him. If this doesn't convince her that he's hers, nothing will."

"Oh?" Caly clearly hadn't heard the details and her curiosity was open and rampant.

Shirik moved to sit near her friend once more. "I've heard the rumors. I know what they're saying about what happened...but I know Ben. I know what really happened. Nobody stabbed him, Lyrr didn't go into a fit, he wasn't caught sleeping with Tebrianne.... He had to break that bond. Short of finding a High Priest of Gol, there's only one thing that can do it, you know. Death."

Caly blinked. "You mean he killed himself to break the bond?" Wow, talk about giving your life up for someone. She wondered if Lyrr appreciated it.

She nodded slowly. "Yes, I believe he did," she said quietly.

Calyca sighed very softly and gave her friend an understanding look. "I'm sorry, Shiri... He must love her an awful lot then..." She hated saying it, but it was only the truth.

"I know," she said with a sigh. "I'm not surprised he did it."

Caly reached out a hand and gently squeezed Shirik's arm. "You need to get over him," she offered and knew when she said the words how hard that would be. "I wish so much more for you..." She gave her a small smile. "Someone that loves you... Like Saavar... Wasn't he willing to sacrifice himself for you, Shiri?"

Shirik tried to smile back, but it was an effort in vain. Instead her eyes welled up with moisture. "I know... yes..." she whispered. "But I don't love him.... I wish I did... things would be so much easier if I did...." She looked up at her friend, a helpless look in her eyes. "Why don't I? Is something wrong with me, Caly?"

"Wrong? No... I don't think so, Shiri." Her hand moved to warmly touch Shirik's face. "I don't think you can love anyone else while you're still in love with Ben... Or maybe you do love Saavar and just can't see it because all you can see is T'Kal..." Caly shrugged a little and looked a bit helpless. "I wish I knew more about relationships, but I just know about Jurell and I...."

"You are so lucky," she whispered. "To love somebody who loves you back just as much.... I can only imagine how that must feel. I'm scared, Caly... you know why? I'm scared that I'll always love Ben, and never be able to love anyone else."

Caly knew she was lucky but frowned at Shirik's fear. "I don't know... I wish I did. What I do know is that's not a 'truth'. Look at T'Kal... He was in love with that Bancroft woman, but he moved past it and fell in love with Lyrr..... So it is possible..."

"But that's different, he thought she was dead," she said. She sighed. "There's nothing anyone can do about it, it's probably even pointless to talk about it. This is exactly why my people don't love, I bet. I wish someone had explained it to me before I got here."

Caly was about to respond and closed her mouth, frowning at Shirik in the process. "You sound like a defeatist," she told her. "Like a victim... What happened to the Warrior Princess who's her own woman and in charge of her life and destiny?"

"She got blind-sided by things she was never prepared to deal with," she frowned. "It's going to take time to find her again... But I need to find her. I hate feeling like this. I hate feeling at all."

"Oh bullshit, Shiri..." Caly snorted some. "Are you telling me you hate what you feel for me? And hate what you feel for Saavar?" she asked. "You just need to get over Ben, that's all. I think in all this, Saavar's the one I actually feel really sorry for. When I put myself in his place I just want to cry. I think you're doing him a grave disservice if you want the truth."

Shirik sighed heavily. "I know I am. He deserves more than I can give him. That's why I need to break our bond, too. Somehow."

"I wasn't talking about the bond really," Caly said. "I was talking about him being in love with you, and you only tossing him bones. I mean... How would you feel even if you had T'Kal knowing that he loved Lyrr and was only with you because he couldn't have her for some reason? And knowing that he didn't love you at all but was using you for comfort. And knowing that he'd go to Lyrr in a hot second if she'd just lift a finger and let him know she wanted him back..." she let out her breath in a soft huff. "I love Jurell more than life itself. And I'd probably take him even on those circumstances. But knowing he was in love with someone else... Knowing he'd go to them... It would slowly kill me."

"That's how I feel, too," she said quietly. "I don't want Saavar to feel this way. But what can I do about it? It's not like I can just break up with him. Our brains are bonded together! That's why Ben had to stab himself. The bond can be a torturous thing... and yet even while being tortured by it, you don't want it to be gone. It's like an addiction...."

"You could distance yourself from him," Caly told her. "You can refuse to succumb to the bond. Isn't that what T'Kal did? He was bonded to that Bancroft woman, but he wasn't forced to stay with her just because of the bond. He made a choice in spite of it... To be with Lyrr instead. So it's not like you don't have a choice. You do. And you don't have to kill yourself to have that choice. You just have to make it."

She nodded slowly. "I just don't want to end up hurting Saavar... and I have the feeling that no matter what I do, I will. Even if he doesn't let it show."

Caly sighed softly. "To be totally honest, I'll wager you already have... And are," she told her friend quietly. "Even though I admitted that I'd probably take Jurell under those circumstances... The hurting would always be there and pretty soon I'd start to get angry with him and myself, and I'd have to distance myself from him out of self preservation... I wouldn't have a choice unless I enjoyed hurting myself all the time... Which I don't." She watched Shirik's face for several moments before adding, "Saavar probably hasn't yet because he's half Vulcan... So can suppress a lot of what he's feeling, but it's still there. It would be horrid to be with someone you loved knowing they loved someone else and were just using you, and that you didn't have a hope of a chance with them.... I think you're much better off than Saavar is, Shiri... At least T'Kal's not trying to find comfort in your arms because he can't get it in Lyrr's..."

She nodded. "That's exactly why I have to find a solution. I will." She got to her feet once more. "I'd better get going."

"Alright," Caly watched her get to her feet. "Thanks for coming by... And let me know what happens, okay? I'm curious if Lyrr lets you in to see him or not," she smiled a little.

"One way or another, I plan to see him," she said. "But I will let you know." She gave her friend a small smile and left the room.

Caly watched the door close behind Shirik with a deep frown on her face. She didn't think her friend really grasped much of what she actually said.

---

"Star Crossed: Prologue"
By: Captain Matt Salinger
Lieutenant Xayella Tagliesh
Commander Lyrr Tayla

Location: Observation Lounge, USS Sulu
Stardate 57910.29, 18h20

***

The view of the passing stars from the Observation Lounge was amazing. No matter how much he learned about stars, science, light, and so on, the view from the lounge at warp speed was always a breathtaking one for Matt Salinger. He smiled at his companion as they watched the streaks of light rushing past. It'd been a few days since he managed to get up and around, and so far his medical reports were on the positive side. Thankfully, he was beginning to get used to the artificial eye.

As expected, the release of two of the Enforcers had caused a stir on the ship. They were still confined to their own quarters, though Tebrianne Bancroft had seemed both happy and sad that her temporary roommates were moving. The two young women would be surrounded by security officers on all sides, and their room was closely monitored. It would still probably be a week or more before they were cleared for duty. So far, however, the results were positive.

Unfortunately, the same couldn't be said of others still locked away in the brig. They'd interviewed a few more, but none had seemed to have the same temperament as Kirsha Dublai or Remica Clarion. Only time would tell if any of the others would prove suitable for release.

Thankfully the night was quiet because the day certainly hadn't been. Commander Zareb had finally left in the Nightingale, departing well before he'd originally informed Matt he would be leaving. The most disconcerting thing about his departure was that he refused to allow Tebrianne Bancroft aboard the runabout. Because she'd remained in the mirror universe for so long, he could not trust her for the trip back to the Alpha Quadrant, no matter how noble her leading the team to save the captain had seemed. She'd come to Matt in tears, nearly begging him to get her onto Zareb's ship. She had to leave, she'd told him, to get away from Benedict T'Kal before her feelings and close proximity to him drove her mad. Matt had gone to Zareb, but the commander had shown little care or concern. Against his better judgement, Matt had even tried to pull rank, but in the end Zareb was the captain of the Nightingale and the call was his. Nothing Matt could say could force him, and in the end, nothing did.

Afterwards, he'd spent nearly an hour trying to console the very distraught Vulcan before she'd finally gone back to her own quarters. What became of her after that, he wasn't sure. But later on, he'd sent a message to Bree asking her to check in.

Matt squeezed Xayella's hand and gave her a smile. "How's your department holding up under all the changes?" he finally asked.

Xayella shrugged with bright eyes fixed to the slow progression of stars outside. She preferred this sluggish pace to full-out warp speed. "I'm trying to keep them busy. Fortunately, a very peculiar stellar phenomenon a few sectors away has caught their attention. The sensors aren't giving us much to work with, but it's keeping them occupied for the time being."

"That's good," Matt said. "It was a nebula, right? I believe you were mentioning it at dinner, and lunch." He grinned. "We might be able to pass close enough to get some good scans. I can see about having Engineering bump that up a little in the repair schedule." Getting the sensors back at full capacity had more ramifications than just getting a good sensor sweep of the phenomenon; tactically, they were very myopic at the moment, and extending their gaze a little further would give additional warning should any hostiles show up. "I believe our current course takes us within fifteen lightyears of the nebula."

"I'd really like to get a look," she mused wistfully. "Haven't been able to do much exploration lately. It'll be good for the crew to spend time studying something innocuous for a change." Xay's red lips curled into a perfect smile. "Though, adventure isn't always a bad thing."

"The ship's in no condition for adventure," Matt said, finding her eyes to be a far better view than the stars at the moment. "One plasma storm, and our mission would end really quick. Perhaps if we have the time, we can swing through for a look after the ship is patched up."

She sighed, and muttered an "I suppose...." Then she bolted up straight-backed. "What if it disappears?" She looked to Matt with a nearly horrified gaze. "I could be missing something spectacular here, Matt!"

"We'll keep our sensors trained on it," Matt said, then slipped his arms around her. "I can't endanger the ship any more, Xay. As it is, just moving through space like this at warp two is dangerous. If an opportunist decides to take advantage of our situation, we have no means of fighting back. But, I promise that we'll keep all resources we can spare trained on it while we're in the area."

"Well..." Xayella smiled reluctantly, then, at Matt's coaxing, the dark somber cloud hovering over her dissipated and her grin broadened. "Fine, but you owe me a dinner date in compensation. And you're cooking."

"Consider it a deal," Matt said, and kissed her. "How about tomorrow night? Our quarters, at 19h00."

"Alright." She paused. "Should I bring a date?"

As Matt playfully growled at her and nipped at Xay's neck, Commander Lyrr's stoic, dispassionate voice came from the comm system to put a damper on their play. Xayella rolled her eyes and muttered, "She just knows, doesn't she...?"

"I think she does," Matt said with a laugh, then reached over and pressed a button to answer the comm. "Go ahead, Number One."

"Captain, I believe you should report to the Bridge," Lyrr replied. "We've just been hailed by a planet along our course."

"Hailed?" Matt asked, exchanging a look with Xay. "Interesting. I'm on my way." As he cut the communication with the bridge, he looked to Xay. "Well, it's not a nebula, but you have to admit being hailed out of the blue is fairly interesting."

"Not if they mean to shoot us down," she pointed out sarcastically, and hopped down from her chair to stride from the observation lounge alongside Matt.

Matt nodded somberly. "Hopefully it won't come to that," he said. "If nothing else, we'll have to limp away at warp two. I'll need you on sensors. And, even though it won't do us much good now, I'll probably have to get Commander T'Kal up to take the tactical station."

"So he can glare at me?" she quipped. "Unless that's his idea of flirting...."

"At least a glare won't bruise," Matt said darkly. "And, if that is his way of flirting, you may have to watch out for Commander Lyrr as well. I hear the seriousness of their relationship has gone up a couple notches."

"She does seem slightly more agitated than usual," Xay noted quietly to keep their discussion from being overheard in the corridor. "You know," she whispered, leaning in closer to him, "I always figured their relationship was doomed, ever since that hockey game blow-up. They'd better get their acts together, or you're going to have to step in, Matt."

"Well, as long as it doesn't affect their duty, doesn't spill into the corridors, and stays private, there's nothing much I can do," he said. "If I notice too much more tension, I may have a chat with Counsellor Scott."

Xay snorted as they stepped into the turbolift. "And we're the dysfunctional ones, are we?" She harrumphed and thrust her chin up in defiance. "We'll see about that." The doors closed.

"We'll see," Matt said from inside as they were whisked off through the ship. Soon, they would see just who it was who decided to say hello in the middle of the night.

---

"Open Arms"
By: Captain Matt Salinger
Commander Lyrr Tayla
Ensign Dwayne Sanchez
Ensign Kit Markham

Location: Bridge, USS Sulu
Stardate 57910.29, 18h30

***

Matt Salinger and Xayella Tagliesh entered the bridge together. As he moved down into the center of the bridge where the comman seats were, she moved back to the science station. As the captain looked around the bridge, he could tell that there was a tension in the air. He just hoped that the situation didn't get out of control. They were in no condition to fight back. However, he didn't need to let on that they were tactically unprepared for a fight.

Lyrr vacated the captain's chair in deference to Matt and walked the short divide to her own. "They're still hailing, Captain," she informed him. "I had Ensign Markham bring us to a full stop just within current sensor range."

Matt nodded his understanding and moved to stand before his chair. "Good move, Number One," he said. He looked around the bridge, then back to the main viewer. He was just glad he was still in uniform. It wouldn't make a very good first impression to meet a new species wearing hockey gear. "Go ahead and put them onscreen."

"Aye sir." Dwayne attempted to do as ordered. He tapped the appropriate controls in order to place the caller on the main screen only to have the computer send him a text message informing him that it couldn't. "Sir, there's something wrong. The imaging array isn't working properly...maybe some damage done to it by the enforcers. I don't know, I'll have to look into it."

"Can we temporarily bypass the damaged sections get it online?" Lyrr asked. "They might get the wrong idea if they're unable to see us."

A few taps on the control told Dwayne no. "I'm sorry, sir, there's no way."

"Very well," the captain answered. "Go ahead and put them through, audio only."

Dwayne nodded and softly murmured, "On speakers, sir."

"Ah, there you are. For a moment there, we had thought you were ignoring us." The voice was rather jovial sounding, and the laugh that followed was just as cheerful. "Welcome to Castari space, Federation starship. We are pleased you decided to drop by. Although...." He was mumbling thoughtfully, slightly troubled. "Can you see us? I'm afraid we cannot see you. How dreadful."

"We've run into recent trouble," Matt explained. "Our ship suffered some damage to the imaging array. I'm Captain Matthew Salinger of the USS Sulu. Though it sounds as if you already know all about the United Federation of Planets. We're on a mission of exploration, seeking out the inhabitants of this region as we can, and exploring the unique stellar phenomena. We actually weren't expecting to hear from anyone so soon, but I can't express how delighted we are to be contacted by you."

There was the rapid clacking of giddy applause from the other end and a decidedly effeminate giggle emitted by the man. "Oh, splendid! The moment we detected a Federation warp signature, we simply knew we would be encountering some long overdue excitement. We are very sorry to hear your ship is not doing too well. If you wish, you may avail yourselves of our repair facilities. Of course they are not as advanced as your own might be, but in the name of hospitality, it is our duty to offer."

Dwayne wasn't sure if anyone that happy was someone they should trust, but he kept his mouth shut.

"Thank you very much for your offer," Matt said. "If you could send us coordinates where we may enter orbit around your planet. As a safety precaution, my...my security staff will wish to check around first. We mean no offense, but we must remain vigilant after our most recent encounter. I do hope you understand."

"Oh, we completely understand," he assured Matt. "They are welcome, as are all your people. The coordinates are being sent as we speak."

"Thank you very much," Matt said with a smile. "We will set a course for your location once we have the coordinates. I look forward to meeting you upon our arrival."

"As do we, Mr. Salinger." Another titter ensued, but was cut short by the terminated link.

Dwayne sat there listening. The coordinates came in fairly quickly and he nodded to the captain that they had the coordinates.

Lyrr Tayla was still watching the screen with disbelief when she said, "I'm not sure what that was exactly...."

"No," Matt said, glancing toward Lyrr. "It wasn't exactly wise, but in our condition I don't believe insulting the locals would be a good idea. Besides, if they are good people who do wish to help us, we may get those repairs we need. And, I intend to send Lieutenant Bennett down with a full security team to make sure we're safe here. I'm not taking chances."

"I'll have her assemble the team," Lyrr told him. "But in the meantime, you don't think they'd mind us performing continuous sensor sweeps of the planet and surrounding area, do you, sir?"

"When we reach orbit," Matt said, "I'll make certain it's alright with them. We should maintain a silent yellow alert with readiness to go to red alert if we need to. Does that meet with your approval?"

Captain Salinger may have been the captain, but he needed his head examined as far as Dwayne was concerned. To allow someone of Collins' background on board, and as a Security officer just wasn't a smart move as far as he was concerned...but he said nothing.

Lyrr smiled flatly. "You're the captain, sir. But in my opinion, that is a sound strategy."

"Your opinion is very important," Matt said with a smile. "Otherwise, you wouldn't be my executive officer." He turned toward the helm. "Mr. Markham, set a course for the coordinates we've received. Full impulse."

"Aye, Captain," Kit answered. "Full impulse."

With that, the ship lurched forward and then was smoothly moving on toward the planet. Matt couldn't help feeling excited, though an air of apprehension seemed to hang over him as they drew closer.

***

"It is mainly for the peace of mind of the crew that I ask," Matt said to the Castari minister. "Many are still nervous over recent events, and it would help bring us peace of mind. Our scans will not intrude into the personal lives of your people, but only to seek out threats toward the ship and crew. It is merely a precautionary measure."

"It is only fair," Premeth Danalen answered. "We were required to scan your vessel before making contact - you have the right to do the same to our planet, Captain Salinger. The lives of your crew must come first, of course."

"Thank you for your understanding," Matt said. "I will be beaming down with our security team shortly. We'll contact you before we are ready. It is alright for us to use our matter transferal device to transport down?"

"By all means," was the man's eager reply. "It has been a wish of ours for some time to witness such a device in action. Whenever you are ready, Captain."

Matt chuckled softly. "Very good then," he said with a smile. "We will contact you again when we are ready to beam down. Sulu out." Once the connection was terminated, he turned to Lyrr at his side. "Very welcoming people," Matt said, though there was a hint of skepticism in his tone. "Hopefully our scans and searches will show everything is as it appears."

"I don't feel confident with you joining the Away Team on a 'hopefully', Captain," Lyrr replied. "Allow me to go in your place."

"Your concern is noted, Commander," Matt said. He had intended to go on, but stopped watching her. Finally, he sighed. He knew she must be very concerned, and perhaps the away mission would help her keep her mind occupied. "Of course," he continued. "You can head this one up, but the next 'hopefully' we run up against, I'll be the one taking the risk."

She nodded curtly and responded with a rather dispassionate, "Yes, sir." Her eyes, however, were hardly devoid of emotion as they reflected her sincere gratitude. Keeping occupied was the best way to forget about Ben for at least a little while. "I'll go meet Lt. Bennett and the team for a short briefing. And, thank you again, Captain," she reiterated before stalking from the bridge.

Matt gave her a smile as he watched her go. "You're welcome," he said softly, though no one was near enough to hear. He turned his attention back to the main viewer and watched the planet below slowly revolving beneath them. He just hoped that the people of Castari were genuinely this friendly. He was tired of being stabbed in the back by seemingly nice people.

---

"Sparking Interest"
By: Lieutenant Xayella Tagliesh
Lieutenant j.g. Natalia Druschev
Lieutenant Saavar
Lieutenant j.g. Tchalla Mel'Chir
Ensign Vincent Chan
Ensign Kelzira Rax

Location: Science Lab 1, USS Sulu
Stardate 57910.29, 19h20

***

Finding it necessary to reassert her dominance at any given opportunity, Xayella sashayed into Main Science's conference room with a padd dangling from her hand and her arm swinging freely. Greeting the assembled department with a dazzling, if not slightly vainglorious smile, Xayella moved to her seat at the head of the oval table. Behind her was a display screen with a wholly incomplete image map of the science team's current focus, the nebula S574-G.

It had first appeared in Lieutenant Mel'Chir's astrometrics scans two days ago, and despite limited sensor range and even worse resolution due to damage inflicted during the ship's last battle, readings had still managed to pique some interest, enough for Xayella to assign a team whose singular focus would be the study of this stellar phenomenon. To be included was indication enough of how highly the CSO valued one's abilities.

Among the team was Mel'Chir, who had earned a place at the conference table by merely detecting the nebula to begin with. Beside her was Ensign Chan who, although having faced some difficulties of late, still showed promise as a scientist, and if anyone knew about struggling to prove oneself despite adversity, it was Xay; that alone secured him a seat. Ensign Rax was present as well, simply because the Trill and Tchalla performed well together, and Xayella wanted her team at its best. As the most senior of her staff, Lieutenants Saavar and Druschev were obligatory members of the group, and both sat to either side of Xayella. She nodded to Druschev, but only offered the Vulcan a thin smile.

With everyone settled in, Xayella commenced the meeting. "I know progress is proving a little slow without the benefit of fully operational sensors, but I'm certain we're all competent enough to sketch a tale for what exactly this phenomenon is from the data we do have." Xayella smiled a touch fondly as she added, "The captain always marvels at how ancient explorers managed to make extraordinary discoveries with the most rudimentary of instruments by our standards; we have centuries of advancements at our disposal, so I'm sure we can get by." She passed her gaze over the gathered scientists and let it settle on Tchalla. "Lieutenant, have recent scans uncovered anything new?"

Tchalla looked up from the padd she'd been studying. "The latest scans came in three hours ago," she said, her voice quavering slightly at speaking before others. As she continued though, her voice grew stronger and more confident as she became more comfortable with reporting their discoveries. "We've detected a higher-than-normal count of gamma radiation, as well as what appears to be a series of discharges that could indicate plasma storms within the nebula. They're similar to the storms in the Badlands, but seem to have a variation along the theta band. If we could launch a probe, it would be able to give us much more detailed information. It seems to have some sensor-absorbing properties, so we'd likely only get data off the outer perimeter of the nebula. Still...it's pretty exciting." She gave a toothy grin to Xayella, her excitement a complete reversal of her timidity at the beginning of her report.

"Perhaps we may utilise a sensor pod mounted on one of the shuttle craft," Saavar intoned with typical Vulcan detachment. "Taking it close to the edge of the nebula will also allow a greater depth of penetration for a sensor probe."

Natalia looked across at Saavar and then at Tagliesh. "We were successful before at JJ324C; using a shuttle as a sensor platform. We'd get the same data as if we were fully operational with the addition of the sensor pod. I'd gladly volunteer for that." She smiled at Tagliesh, letting some of her excitement show. Natalia's main scientific discipline was the study of space and the physics behind phenomena.

Vincent Chan looked up from his data pad. He had been bored out of his mind before Natalia's suggestion. Space this, and Nebula that... It was all an endless cycle of technobabble to him. Consequently he had allowed his mind to wander. Now, however he was right back with them. "A shuttle, eh? I'll go with you," he said, looking at Natalia. "Gives me an excuse for leaving the ship. Put me down for it."

Natalia gave him a smile and nodded, though she did defer to Xayella, turning to her to gauge her reaction to the suggested away mission. She remembered the last time she'd been in a shuttle with Kit and Kelzira; it had been fun and a good chance to get to know other people.

Xayella chuckled in amusement and sat back in her chair to take them all in. "A little outing, then? Wouldn't that just be the most fun." Her flat tone, however, belied her enthusiasm. "We can't very well all go. There's a new planet to explore and I do need some of you to remain here." But noting that this was the most excitement she'd seen any of them show in all her time as CSO, Xayella sighed and languidly waved her acquiescence. "Oh fine.... Lt. Druschev, assemble the team and work with Ensign Chan and Mel'Chir to make the necessary modifications." She smiled thinly. "I'll take care of gaining permission from the captain. Lieutenant Saavar, Rax, you'll remain on board with me to organize the data collection on this end. Is everyone happy?"

Natalia grinned widely and nodded, "Yes sir," she replied enthusiastically. She glanced over at Vincent Chan and nodded. "You can act as pilot, Ensign." Like all Academy graduates, they all were rated for shuttle piloting. "Tchalla and I will handle the modifications."

Savaar simply nodded. "I am satisfied," he said. It was the way she said that she would take care of the permission from the captain that was distasteful to the Vulcan. It implied leverage in a smug manner that she seemed delighted to flaunt.

Vincent was too happy to speak. He not only got to leave the ship, but he got to fly the shuttle as well. Finally some excitement! Some action! No more sitting around in a sterile lab for little Vinnie. He had to fight off the strong urge to jump up on the table and start celebrating. He thought however, since Lt. Tagliesh had just handed a decent gift, so very contrary to her nature, that that would be taking it too far. He merely nodded in agreement, a big grin plastered on his face.

Xayella shrugged. "Then it's settled." She pushed back her chair to rise, and while smoothing out her skirt, informed them, "I'll see if Lieutenant Thaine can find us a little extra power to boost the signal feed; that'll allow you to position yourselves farther out and bring in more telemetry." With an approving nod, she dismissed the team. "And Lieutenant Druschev," she called to the woman, "if you go into labour, you will return to the ship, won't you?"

"I'm only fourteen weeks pregnant, sir," she reminded Xayella. Unconsciously sliding a hand across her still flat tummy. Her smile in response was radiant. "I don't plan on being away from the ship quite that long," she laughed softly, totally happy. "Perhaps you should have one of your own. I'm sure the Captain wouldn't mind." Her impish smile and carefree demeanour showed that she was plainly teasing.

Xayella grimaced in revulsion at the idea.

Kelzira looked up from where she'd had a quick, quiet conference with Tchalla. "I'll contact Operations about resource allocation and computer time for this, if that's alright."

"Of course," Xayella replied. "I'll drop by engineering and pester the old chief to move up the repair schedule for those sensors."

And as the team filed out of the conference room, Xayella stood back and watched with a satisfied smile. For once people were excited about something she had proposed. She sighed, content. It felt much better than being despised.

---

"Security Detail"
By: Commander Lyrr Tayla
Lieutenant Taylor Bennett
Ensign Alexia Johnstone
Lieutenant Derran Casey
Crewman Kaven Lucas
Ensign Kate Hansen

Location: Surface of Castari Alpha
Stardate 57910.29, 19h20

***

Once released from the transporter's grip, the Away Team became awash in warmth from the blazing sun hanging high overhead, and assailed with the faint scent of flowers and ripening fruit carried on the cooling breeze, one that had blown in to mitigate the otherwise searing heat beating down on them.

Commander Lyrr was accompanied by Acting Chief of Security Taylor Bennett, Lieutenant Derran Casey, Crewman Kaven Lucas, and Ensign Kate Hansen from security and Ensign Johnstone was fulfilling the medical officer component of the away team. Lyrr Tayla was yearning for her hot climate variant within moments. There was ample distraction, however, to detract from any unpleasantness experienced, and it was the landscape that provided just that.

Castari Alpha was the Gamma Quadrant's response to Risa, it seemed. A vast ocean of seafoam green stretched along the eastern bounds of the city as far as could be seen with the unaided eye; the reflecting sunlight glittered upon its tranquil surface and offered a nearly dazzling sight on its own. A wide, cobbled path lay before the team of five and led to a cozy village of squat dwellings constructed from coruscating white stone, and sprawling gardens of tropical flowers lining the walkway on either side for such a distance that they created the illusion of a stain-glassed window in the sky throwing its variegated rainbow of colours down onto the earth.

The populace was just as attractive, all bronzed skin and flowing, white robes adorned with fresh flowers and beaded jewellery. Congenial smiles were offered, and foreign greetings bestowed, giving the team a closer look at this new race never encountered before. Some were nearly indistinguishable from humans, showing a trend of fair-hair and gray eyes; others were dark-featured with a pattern of lines and curves on their brows. Despite the morphological segregation, they mingled freely. The bubbling laughter of children invigorated the air, and in the background was the placid song of a stringed-instrument that soothed any anxiety the team might be feeling.

Lieutenant Derran Casey stood at the fringe of the group and his blue eyes surveyed the crowd with open friendliness. Some of the women were quite fetching, and he wondered whether they'd get shore leave. His dashing smile and bronzed Apollo looks had never failed him. Even now he saw the desire in the eyes of the women looking his way. He smirked, and winked at one girl who giggled and gave him a coquettish look. He struck his imposing pose and straightened his jacket. He felt a little put-out that Bennett had been sent down. He was quite more than capable of handling this situation. He looked unperturbed as Lyrr looked back at them after scanning the crowd for any potential threats. She waved Lt. Bennett forward.

Taylor Bennett stepped out in front of the team. She kept her phaser on her hip, but one hand lingered near it while the other held a tricorder. She scanned the surrounding area, including the people now watching them. "No sign of weapons, Commander. I'm detecting no threats of any kind. So far so good." She checked her scan and let her hand slip a little further away from her phaser. "Those buildings up ahead appear to be...official looking."

Lyrr quirked an eyebrow at the young security officer. "And you're basing your assessment on what, exactly?"

"The planetary crest over the doors there," Taylor said pointing. "And, those gentlemen emerging from the building appear to be wearing clothing different from the rest, clothing that appears much more official."

Just as Lyrr turned her eyes to the objects of Bennett's attention, two of the men - both in lavender robes with golden trim - emitted sounds of surprise and delight. Both immediately changed course towards them. Lyrr narrowed her eyes. "Everyone on your guard."

Casey almost rolled his eyes at the paranoia of his commanding officer. Two men, unarmed and wearing dresses; a major tactical threat he was certain. He wondered whether it was the smiles on their faces that had Lyrr so defensive. Everyone knew that the XO hated smiling. Casey just traded a look with Kate Hansen who was smirking as well, but standing protectively close to the medical officer of the Away Team. Casey had to give it to her, Kate was a trier. He grinned, wondering if she'd ever think about sharing.

Taylor managed to remain guarded while still being ready to act if anything untoward happened. As she watched the two men approaching, she tried not to appear suspicious. She glanced down at her tricorder. "Not armed," she said under her breath. But, she knew all too well that a person didn't need a weapon to kill.

Kaven Lucas was standing at the back of the party, his huge frame hard to disguise, and his facial tattoos making him look fierce and intimidating. As the Lieutenant scanned with her tricorder, he'd been doing the same, and he had to concur with Bennett; Lucas didn't consider anything hostile, and like Bennett he still remained vigilant.

Alexia Johnstone also lurked near the back of the party. This was her first away mission, and she was feeling very much out of her depth. Still, she was determined to make the most of the learning possibilities however best she could. She was used to carrying a medical kit and tricorder with her, but it was a very strange sensation having to carry a phaser as well! She had been looking around with almost hypervigilance ever since they had disembarked from the transporter, and noted that the scenery was, if nothing else, beautiful. So far, she also had not detected any sign of trouble.

Kate Hansen saw her nervousness as first time nerves and gave her a smile as she looked away from the grinning idiot Casey. She had to suppress a shiver of distaste at the open frankness of his expression. Ugh! She turned her smile into something more natural as she nodded friendly fashion at Lexi. Bennett had told her that it was Johnstone's first away team and to stick close - just in case. Looking at Johnstone, Kate didn't mind that assignment one bit.

"Our dear Federation friends!" one of the officials gushed with arms outstretched. Lyrr watched him warily, hoping the man wasn't intending to wrap her in an embrace.

The Security Officers were all well trained, and none of them could sense any hostility or cunning behind the friendliness being shown them. They were even quite relaxed, and all of them smiled, even Lucas. They all silently hoped that the rotund alien would wrap her up in a nice big hug; Lyrr deserved a big hug from a fat alien. They were still unsure of what had transpired in the holodeck with T'Kal, and until the Security Chief regained consciousness they all had to give her the benefit of the doubt.

He was a heavy-set man with a rotund belly, creating a mighty hump that interrupted the elegant flow of his garb. His robust weight, combined with his merry smile and hearty laughter, alluded to a man who was quite indulgent in all of life's pleasures; as he drew near and took both of Lyrr's hands into his, she wondered just what sort he planned on introducing her to. But, as he leaned forward and raised her hands to his face, it was his forehead that touched the back of her hands and not his lips. When she glanced aside and noticed Ensign Johnstone was receiving the same treatment from the older man's far taller and thinner companion, Lyrr surmised it was the planet's customary greeting. That did little to assuage her discomfort.

"Oh, how wonderful," the short, wide man continued. The exertion of bending his heavy body forward and straightening it again dappled his balding pate with sweat and reddened his cheeks. His hands remained firmly ahold of hers, while his companion delivered the same greeting to the rest of the Away Team.

"What a momentous day this is. Our first visitors in years!" From his ecstatic giggle, Lyrr placed him as the representative they had first made contact with. "I am Faelen Metah of Castari Alpha's Interplanetary Relations Committee - an otherwise defunct organization until you came along!" He was absolutely overjoyed now.

Lyrr executed a quick tip of her head at the man. "I'm Commander Lyrr Tayla of the Federation Starship USS Sulu." She swept her hand towards the team. "These are my fellow crewmates, Ensign Alexia Johnstone, Lieutenant Taylor Bennett" --she extended her opposite hand to present the rest-- "Lieutenant Derran Casey, Ensign Kate Hansen and Crewman Kaven Lucas. We're honoured that you have--"

"Those facial markings." Metah's dark-haired, lanky companion stepped forward, studying Lucas. Lyrr bristled slightly at the lanky man's interruption. "What are they?"

Lucas grinned. It was hard to maintain a serious expression, especially as the friendliness of these people seemed to disconcert Lyrr so much. "Tattoos," he answered with an uncharacteristic friendly tone in his voice. That attracted Hansen's gaze.

Metah frowned at his associate, but his smile quickly returned. "I apologize, Commander. I did not introduce Faelen Dohl. He is a member of the Stellar Exploration Committee."

Lyrr smiled thinly. "No apology necessary. I imagine we're as foreign to you as you are to us." Lyrr waved Kaven forward. "Feel free to ask any questions you like. My only request is that you show us more of your planet. It truly is beautiful."

Metah's gray eyes sparkled with mirth. "It would be a pleasure, Commander."

Casey grinned widely at that. Shore leave. As the group set off Casey fell in close to Lyrr. He needed to demonstrate his abilities to the XO, and put Bennett in her place.

As Metah led the small party to the government building, Dohl fell back to walk abreast Lucas and discuss his facial markings. Bearing his own on the tanned flesh of his brow, it was easy to see what had inspired his interest. "So...they are real?" Dohl pressed.

"You mean do they come off? No. They are a symbol my people associate with gaining manhood, and becoming a warrior. I have them over most of my body. They are a protection against spirits. They all have meaning." This was a lengthy explanation from Lucas and he seemed to satisfy the man's question.

"Oh." Dohl smiled, nodding his head. "Ours...facial markings I mean...they don't have any significance. I was born with them...racial trait." He seemed to ponder it for a moment. "I see that your party here is made up of...erm...different...eh...species?"

Kaven nodded. "Commander Lyrr is Bajoran, I am Human, and so are Lieutenant Casey, Ensign Johnstone and Ensign Hanson. Lieutenant Bennett is a Vulcan. I am a Maori, which is a racial sub-species of Human - though there are only differences in skin tone and hair colour and some facial differences." He pointed at some of the crowd that were walking along beside the group eagerly examining them as they walked. "I notice there are a few differences in your race."

"Oh not many," Dohl reacted with surprise. "We're quite pure actually," he smiled and nodded. "The gene pool, I mean."

Something about the casual nature of Dohl's answer made Kaven Lucas a little uncomfortable. Pure? "Your companion mentioned that your committee was almost defunct?" Lucas watched his expressions, but the man seemed totally benign.

"Oh yes!" he agreed readily. "We haven't had anyone visit us in a long time. We're a somewhat isolated people." He smiled.

"You were very kind to invite us here," Kaven pointed out. "We might not have visited otherwise. There's nothing to indicate that you're...developed enough.."

"Oh you mean starships?" Dohl grinned happily. "We tried that once - about a century ago...it didn't work out. We explored a bit...we didn't find anything of interest...so we decided not to."

"Decided not to?" Kaven inquired.

"Yes...we decided it was better to devote ourselves to more pleasurable and safer pursuits." Dohl seemed very pleased with himself. "We love freedom to express ourselves in our art, music, literature; we beautify our surroundings and live a very simple life. Pleasure is a self rewarding pursuit, don't you think?"

Kaven grinned. "I sure do, sir," he agreed. "Perhaps we could spend more time here with some shore leave. I'm sure our crew would love the opportunity to help you explore those pleasurable pursuits." Lucas was thinking of Risa and how much this place seemed to be the same.

***

"I hope, Commander Lyrr Tayla, that our planet meets with your approval," Metah said with an expectant smile as he nearly skipped alongside Lyrr. He was nearly an inch short of reaching the commander's full height; her longer strides made it difficult for the smaller man to keep up, let alone lead his guests towards the government building.

"Your planet is quite beautiful," Lyrr replied graciously, but rather lifelessly. "It is your planet's laws and customs I am more interested in, however. If my people are to land on this planet, the last thing we wish to do is inadvertently offend you and your people."

Metah chuckled. "Oh, don't concern yourself with that, Commander. We have very few laws governing this planet, and as long as your people are not murdering ours, we are more than happy to offer you some leeway."

Lyrr smiled thinly at his remark.

"I don't believe you'll have an issue with murders, Faelen," Taylor said with a smile. "Starfleet officers don't behave in that manner. It appears that your planet has a prominent focus on leisure activities. Do you have other industries and a workforce? Or do you just...play?"

Metah supported his jiggling stomach with one hand as he laughed robustly. "Oh no, dear girl, not all of our day is occupied with the pleasures life has to offer. We have a thriving fishing industry, as you may have guessed...unless you neglected to catch sight of the glorious blue ocean we have been blessed with."

"It is very striking," Lyrr concurred politely. This pleased Metah greatly and his smile beamed.

"There is a planet in the Federation that shares many similarities with your planet. It's very beautiful. You receive few visitors here? No one comes here to...vacation?"

"Not many," Metah explained, appearing somewhat disappointed by that fact. "We have space-faring capabilities, of course, and, as you have learned, a communication system, but we have tended to keep to ourselves ever since we recognized the Dominion threat." He shook his head sadly. "A bustling tourist industry is not worth the cost of attracting unwanted attention."

"I thought the Dominion had retreated to their own territory," Lyrr inquired.

"Oh, they have," Metah assured her. "But there is still that fear, you must understand. We are content as we are, so it is not such a loss. Although the moment we detected a Federation signature, we knew this was the perfect opportunity to end our silence. What an exciting day!"

Taylor smiled as she continued to monitor her tricorder. "What sort of military capabilities does your planet possess?" she asked while adjusting to a narrower scanning algorithm.

"Just a basic standing army," Metah replied, though his smile faded. "That won't be a problem, will it? We do not want you to think we're a war-like people, Commander. We are quite pacifistic."

"In this century, a planet with just a standing army is pacifistic," Lyrr told him. He seemed relieved.

Taylor smiled as she looked up from the tricorder, then slipped it back into the case at her hip. "No," she said, "it's not a problem at all. And, it's very obvious just looking around that your planet is a peaceful one where life is cherished." She looked to Commander Lyrr and nodded.

"Would it be possible, Faelen, to have my team survey the landing site?" Lyrr asked him as they mounted the steps of the government structure.

"Certainly," he answered readily. "Your people are free to roam where they wish. We have nothing to hide, Commander."

She bowed her head. "I'm glad. After a brief tour of the area, I believe I can report back to my captain."

Metah smiled hopefully. "A praising report, I do hope, Commander. It would be our honour to host your people on Castari."

"And it would be our honour to make a stay on your world, Faelen Metah," Lyrr returned politely.

When the rest of the team joined Lyrr and Taylor on the steps, Metah gave Dohl instructions to escort their guests to the ground transport. "And if there are anymore questions, Commander," Metah told her eagerly, "I will be more than delighted to provide answers."

Lyrr thanked him with a smile, and joined the rest of her team as they were led away. "Bennett," Lyrr said quietly to the Vulcan, staying behind the rest of the group, "what do you think?"

"The planet has minimal weaponry and defenses, and those it does possess are no threat to the Sulu, even in her current condition. While my abilities as a telepath are very limited, between that sense and my...intuition tells me that every word he spoke was the truth. I don't believe they pose any threat to the Sulu or her crew. However, in light of recent events, I still recommend vigilance while we remain here. And, I believe, after the mirror universe, the R&R possibilities here will boost morale."

"And it'll give time for Lieutenant Thaine to get the ship back into peak operating efficiency," she mentioned. "At any rate, we have very little choice in the matter, unless we want to continue limping through space. We'll just need to ensure the landing site is secure, then we can return to the ship."

"My team can take care of that, Commander," Taylor said. "It appeared that there might be some locations just a little inland that would be suitable."

"And I'm now superfluous?" Lyrr smiled. "I get the idea, Lieutenant. I trust you can handle the situation down here?"

"I think I can, Commander," Taylor said. "And, you're hardly superfluous. Though, if you're going to be around, and it's not an imposition, I would appreciate any feedback you might be able to provide on my command abilities with the team."

Lyrr chuckled. "Not an imposition at all. I'd be glad to assess you, Lieutenant." And she extended a hand to gesture Taylor into the lead. "I'm not here," Lyrr told her playfully.

With a smile, Taylor started forward to gather the group up and set off in search of a landing zone for the Sulu. She couldn't help grinning even more broadly at the thought of watching the ship land. It would be a sight to see, that was for certain. It seemed that was something this planet had in plentiful amounts. After everything they'd been through, they needed it.

---

"A Little Like Tattling"
by Ensign Dwayne Sanchez
and Captain Matthew Salinger

Location: Bridge, USS Sulu
Stardate 57910.29, 19h30

***

Dwayne sighed as he returned to duty on the bridge. Taking the ops station from the other ensign who had relieved him long enough for some lunch. He hadn't been gone very long, as most everyone on the bridge may have noticed...but after his run-in with Andrea Collins in the messhall, he wasn't about to stay in the room any longer than was necessary.

He almost felt like he had after that wager he'd made with Steele. He couldn't stop thinking about that...woman. He kept his hands still however, unlike the last time he'd been this agitated. It seemed like he'd grown up a little since he'd taken up residence on board this ship.

The bridge was quiet since the shift required few people to be present. Those who would be necessary in a crisis weren't far away. Matt Salinger sat in the center chair, glancing up at the main viewer from time to time as he read through various reports.

Dwayne frowned a little as he thought about what happened in the messhall...he couldn't get away from it. She wouldn't get away from it. He wanted nothing to do with her. He put his right hand on his right thigh and began to rub it alongside...anything to keep from hitting the panel.

After a moment he found it hard to concentrate on his duty. He didn't want to slam the console so he stood up from his post and began to pace the area directly behind the ops station.

The captain couldn't help noticing the sudden flurry of movement, and watched the young operations officer for a moment before saying, "Is there anything wrong, Mr. Sanchez?"

Dwayne looked up as he was addressed. "I'm sorry, sir...I just can't concentrate. I thought it better to stand up from my station rather than hitting the console." He said this with a wry grin, figuring the captain would remember the last time he was in such a state.

Matt stood up and moved over toward the Ops station so as to not embarrass the operations officer. "Did you need some time for yourself, Dwayne," he asked, his voice pitched for only Dwayne to hear.

Dwayne wasn't sure if he should leave his station after only just returning from a meal. "Sir...if we could, how about we talk in your Ready Room?" He thought this was important enough that it needed privacy.

"Of course, Mr. Sanchez," Matt said with a raised eyebrow. "How about we do that." With a slight smirk, he turned away and entered his Ready Room. Once inside, he took a seat on the edge of his desk and looked up at Dwayne.

Dwayne remembered the last time he was in here...he shook his head and looked at the other man, "I...it's about another crewmember." He felt a little silly talking about how a female on the crew was hitting on him and wouldn't take no for an answer.

Matt nodded. "Go ahead, Dwayne," he said.

He was beginning to really feel silly, but he couldn't stand how this woman just wouldn't leave him alone. "It's about one of the security officers." He felt a little off talking about this. Especially after the wager he'd made with Steele.

"Go on," Matt said with an encouraging nod.

Dwayne motioned to a sofa to see if it was okay for him to sit, receiving a nod in the affirmative, he sat down. "She...she won't leave me alone." Saying it that way, he felt a blush rush up his cheeks, perhaps giving a hint of what it is she's wanting from him.

"And, who is that, Ensign," Matt asked with a raised eyebrow.

He replied softly, and a gulp, "Ensign Collins."

"Go on, Dwayne," the captain said. "What's she doing, and do you wish me to get involved in getting her to leave you alone?"

Dwayne went into some detail of what happened at the party...then what happened just his afternoon in the messhall... "And she won't stop. I've told her no so much it seems to be the only word I have left in my vocab."

"So, do you wish for me to have a talk with her, Dwayne?" He knew the situation was embarrassing for the young operations officer, but he couldn't help feeling as if he were swimming upstream to try to get information from Dwayne.

Dwayne wasn't sure what he'd expected the captain to do about it, "I'm not sure that would work, sir...she seems pretty determined. Particularly at the party. I know you were there, did you see her...outfit?" What there was of it, he thought to himself.

Matt nodded. "I saw it," he said. "Though, perhaps it's time to impress upon Ensign Collins that she's consistently been out of line, and much more of this will earn her a dishonourable discharge. I'm fairly certain she'll do the math and realize her continued behaviour is a losing proposition."

Dwayne shrugged. "I hate to admit this especially to a superior officer, and forgive me if this little admission gets to my grandparents, but I want to hit her sometimes."

"I can understand the feeling," Matt said. "She likes to get people riled up, and she knows exactly which buttons to push. It just so happens, I'm pretty good with pushing buttons as well. I'll have a talk with Ensign Collins, and if you have any more trouble with her, just let me know."

Dwayne nodded. "Thanks, sir. I don't know how she even got to me like this."

"I believe it's just the way she operates," Matt said. "I'll have a talk with her and you shouldn't be having trouble like this any longer. Was there anything else, Dwayne?"

"No sir." He looked the Ready Room over. "I remember the last time I came in here...it wasn't nearly as pleasant a visit as this time was, sir."

Matt grinned. "I'm glad this time was better, Dwayne. And, you won't need to worry about her again." He watched as Dwayne left the Ready Room, and sighed. He could only hope this would be the last time he received a problem report related to Andrea Collins.

---

"Scientific Endeavours"
By: Lieutenant Natalia Druschev
Lieutenant j.g. Tchalla Mel'chir
Ensign Vincent Chan
Lieutenant Xayella Tagliesh

Location: USS Sulu
Stardate 57910.29, 20h40

***

Tchalla Mel'Chir stowed her science kit under her seat on the shuttle. She was excited to be going out, even though they wouldn't be visiting the nebula. They'd have the shuttle's sensors trained on it, and that was almost as good. She'd said her goodbyes to Dwayne and Kelli, and to Kit and Amy, and was now ready to be scientific again. It'd been quite awhile since the science department had a project like this to work on. She beamed happily around the cabin of the shuttle as the others got into their places. There was just a couple minutes left before they started off for the observation point.

Natalia Druschev stepped into the shuttle with her shoulder carry-on bag and a beaming smile. She nodded to Tchalla and held out her hand. Though the blue skinned Andorian had worked with Natalia on a few things, they hadn't really been working this close. A shuttle mission was close quarters. "Tchalla," she said, her Russian accent making the word sound naturally Russian in origin. "We don't need ranks," she added. "Call me Natalia," she smiled.

Tchalla gave her a shy smile and nodded. "Thank you," she said. "This is...it's very exciting. I've spent so much time in the lab, to...to get out..." Her voice trailed off, but the resulting grin said more than words ever could.

"I know," Natalia grinned. "I love field trips," she laughed and patted Tchalla on the arm, friendly fashion. "Last trip I had the pleasure of Kelzira's company." Natalia stepped through into the main pilot section. "Kit too," she added.

Vincent settled down into the pilot's seat, the controls blinking and beckoning in front of him. He rested his fingers on the throttle controls for a brief moment before beginning his flight check.

It had been a long time since Vincent had actually been behind the controls of a shuttle. He was of course certified - he had passed some course in the academy - and was cleared to pilot vessels of certain classes. He had barely passed his exam. Come to think of it, that was probably the last time he had actually piloted anything...

"Tagliesh to shuttle team," came Xay's sing-song prompt from the shuttle's comms. "Are you settled in yet? We're waiting on you to get started."

"This is Lt. Mel'chir," Tchalla said into the comm, "we are just getting settled, Lieutenant. We should be ready for departure in two minutes. Ensign Chan is just finishing up the pre-flight checks for the shuttle."

"Have you rechecked the sensor calibrations on your end?" she asked.

"Rechecking now," Tchalla answered. "All systems are appearing nominal, Lieutenant."

She sighed. "Then what are you waiting for? Get out of here!"

"We...we had to wait for Ensign Chan to get settled in, sir. I think we're almost ready to go now."

The team could nearly hear Xayella tapping her foot testily through the channel. "Druschev, get your team organized and do it fast."

"All systems are go, lieutenant," Vincent said at last. "Had some sticking with the left stabilizer, but it's fine now. Shall we get going?"

"I almost get the impression she wants to be rid of us..." Natalia whispered to the team. "We're all set, sir," she replied more loudly. "I hope you took care of our permission to leave, Lieutenant." She shot Tchalla a grin.

Tchalla returned the grin and turned her attention back to the sensor systems, checking the calibrations one more time.

"Of course I took care of it," Xayella replied haughtily. "Now if everyone's set...." And proving she wasn't completely churlish, she added, "Good luck out there. We'll keep a channel open for constant communication."

"Aye, sir. USS Emelia Earhart out." Natalia turned to Chan. "Okay let's do what the lady wants." She gave him a smile.

"Let's get this bird out of here," Vincent said, adding under his breath, "Away from the wicked witch..."

Natalia suppressed a giggle with a hand over her mouth, her eyes showing that Vincent's remark was appreciated. He was a funny guy.

With a flick of a few switches and a quick thrust, the shuttle left the Sulu. The impressive exterior structure of the starship filled the viewscreen. With his hands firmly on the controls, Vincent risked a quick look back.

"How's that for a stylish takeoff?" Vincent said to everyone in general and then to Natalia, "Where now, Lieutenant?"

"Course laid in," she smiled as her fingers tapped out the coordinates for the auto-pilot and navigation system. "Two hours and seventeen minutes." She patted him on the shoulder. "Nice takeoff, Ensign." With a smile she turned to Tchalla. "Shall we get started?" she asked, as she called up the sensor pod's systems on her LCARS.

"I've got the nebula on long-range sensors," Tchalla said. "Bringing it up now. I'm receiving higher than normal levels of X radiation. It appears to be similar to the Badland nebulas, but the plasma storms here...they seem to be shifted point oh seven along the gamma frequency. Wow, they're beautiful."

"Marvel at its beauty later, Mel'chir," Xay advised as her voice cut in again. "Chan, how is signal strength on those scanners? If you need a boost, launch a Class-4 probe. That should help us out."

Frowning as the address distracted momentarily from the controls he was so intent upon, Vincent was about to let out a string of profanities. As far as Vincent was concerned, Lieutenant Druschev was in charge of this mission and he did not need the distraction. To him at least, everything was just fine. What did Tagliesh expect him to say? A sarcastic "But, sir..." came to mind. Vincent had barely opened before an irritated Natalia interrupted.

Natalia frowned as Xayella's voice came over the comm. If she'd wanted to lead the away team she should have come along. "Yes, sir," Natalia said into the comm. "Signal strength is fine. If required I'll order a probe launched. We'll check in once we've reached the first way point. Thank you, sir. Earhart out." And she disconnected the transmission. "So much for the wicked witch." She grinned at Vincent.

"I'm getting good readings on the nebula," Tchalla said as she peered down at the sensors. "Another five hundred thousand kilometers, and I believe we should be in a prime relay position. We may even be able to set up a probe to boost the signal back to the Sulu."

"That's the idea," Natalia smiled. "Take us as close as you can without losing proximity to the Sulu, Vincent. Once we're set up we'll send in a probe. If this is like the Badlands the data we'll be able to gather will help us determine how these regions are formed; what are the common denominators between this area and The Badlands...." Natalia sounded excited. This was her field and she loved it. "It'll be beautiful...the vortex formations of ionic tornadoes.... I want to get some images."

"Pretty colors," Vincent agreed, speaking up as he guided the shuttle in. The increase in speed led the shuttle to kick a little. "Sorry, folks..." was all Vincent could say, as he focused all his attention on the controls, his brow creased and heavy with concentration. Flying a shuttle was not as easy as it seemed. He just didn't know how flight control did it. A bit later he asked Natalia, "This good enough, lieutenant?"

"Should do it," she agreed, looking at the course track. The bright yellow, orange and red bands of ionisation stretched as far as the eye could see to both sides of the viewscreen, like a twin layer of cloud that ran through the angry spectrum before diminishing in purples and bands of blue upward and downward. The ionization bands were aligned to the plane of the ecliptic for the solar system of the Castari planet. Between the two bands the whorls and vortices spun like magma tornadoes, some stationary, some moving and blending, shooting off more or diminishing. The image, however, was unstable, and interference from the nebula, even at such a divide, was weakening the transmission.

"Tchalla, warm up the probe," Natalia asked as she started the sensor feed to the Sulu.

"Aye, sir," Tchalla said as she prepared the probe for launch. After ten seconds, she smiled. "Probe ready for launch, Lie-- Natalia."

Natalia smiled at the blue skinned girl and nodded. "Launch," she ordered. "We have to make sure it avoids the vortices, but gets close enough to get a good scan of a cross section. Try to get it as far into the Nebula as possible."

"I've programmed the probe to stop within fifty thousand kilometers of the nebula's edge," Tchalla said. "It will still have sufficient scanning efficiency without the risk of plasma storms to the probe housing."

"Great," Natalia nodded. "When we've gathered all we can from there, we'll take it in."

"Lieutenant Tagliesh to shuttle team," Xay snapped over the comm. "Status update, if you please?"

Natalia shook her head and grinned. "We're about to launch a probe Lieutenant," she replied into the comm. "All systems are nominal, we're at fifty thousand kilometers and holding position. Everything is just fine. You should have come along, sir." Natalia winked at Chan.

"I might have," she answered, "if someone other than Chan were driving." Without a visual, there was no telling if Xayella was teasing or not.

"I know what you mean, sir," Natalia grinned. "It was touch and go there for a while...but he managed to get it out of the hangar okay. We figured the planet was big enough that he wouldn't run into it." She winked at Chan. "Do you want me to check back with you in another fifteen minutes, sir? Or can we get back to work?" She used the same tone as Xayella.

"Oh, is that what you were doing?" She chuckled with a note of smugness. "Fine. Fifteen minutes. Tagliesh out."

Once the line had been severed, Tchalla gaped at Natalia. She didn't say anything, but perhaps Natalia had some special way to deflect the lieutenant's ire. She just hoped that Natalia didn't end up on Xayella's bad side. Too many people there would make the department difficult to work within. With a smile to keep herself positive, Tchalla set to work as they readied themselves to set the relay back to the Sulu into place. In just fifteen minutes, Lt. Xayella Tagliesh would see exactly what they were seeing. Tchi just hoped that the lieutenant was just as excited.

Natalia grinned at Tchalla. "Don't worry...she likes me." She laughed a little. "I think...."

---

"Touching Down"
By: Captain Matt Salinger
Commander Lyrr Tayla
Ensign Marp
Lieutenant Mark Thaine
Lieutenant Xayella Tagliesh
Lt. Commander Sam

Location: Bridge, USS Sulu
Stardate 57910.29, 22h15

***

"Very good, Number One," Matt said with a nod and a grin for his first officer. "Flight control has the coordinates, so now we just have to get down there. Hopefully Bennett's team isn't standing too close." He grinned. He turned to face the front of the bridge, where the planet hung suspended before them on the main viewer, an excited smile working across his lips.

The planet, according to Lyrr and the Away Team posed no threat to the ship or crew of the Sulu. It would mean some shore leave for most of the crew as the ship was repaired of the damage caused in the mirror universe. Perhaps the shore leave would help repair the damage done to the crew as well. Though, he had a feeling that the hearts and minds of the crew wouldn't be so easily healed, not like a starship's battle damage. Perhaps, however, it would be a start.

"Mr. Marp, bring us about to three-seven seven-mark-zero, one quarter impulse."

"Aye sir," said Marp, entering the coordinates into his console. "Heading three-seven-seven-mark-zero, one quarter impulse power."

Matt opened a channel to Main Engineering. "Mr. Thaine. Prepare to shut down the warp drive, on my mark."

The Chief Engineer's voice came through the comm-link; tense, but in control. "Whenever you're ready, Captain," he announced.

"Go ahead, Mr. Thaine. Mark." There was a subtle shiver through the ship as the warp drive was shut down. Matt grinned. "All hands, prepare for landing. Take us down, Marp."

"Aye sir," replied Marp. He had practiced this procedure in simulation, but Marp could not help but be a bit nervous. As he brought the Sulu about, Marp began the landing process. "Captain, landing mechanisms are online, atmospheric systems are at standby, and inertial dampening systems are at maximum."

Sam's hands danced across his console as he monitored the ship's sytems. "Ship status now at Condition Blue."

With a touch of his control pad Marp sent the Sulu into the planet's atmosphere. The Sulu shook as they began its decent. Marp kept an eye on ship's structural integrity systems, and adjusted the course. Marp held his breath as the Sulu went down thorough the atmosphere. Finally, Marp could see their selected landing place. He guided the Sulu towards the landing zone. As he approached, Marp deployed the landing struts.

Using the atmospheric thrusters, Marp lowered the ship to the planet's surface. The Sulu settled to the ground with a shudder. "Disengaging all engines," said Marp. Marp shut down the engines. Finally, Marp adjusted the Sulu's structural integrity filed to match the planet's gravity.

"The Sulu, has landed, Sir,"said Marp with a certain measure of pride in his voice. He had done it!

"Very good work, Mr. Marp," Matt said with a smile for the Ferengi helmsman. "Secure the ship and prepare to distribute shore leave to all hands that wish to take it. We'll need an engineering team to remain aboard to continue with repairs. We'll be working with the Castari engineers for the supplies we require. See to it, Sam. I'll be meeting with the officials from the planet on the surface."

"Aye, Captain." And, with that, Sam quickly began distributing orders and preparing departure shifts for those seeking shore leave.

"We'll be taking certain systems off-line for repairs, Captain," the Chief Engineer informed the Captain via the comm. "We've got a list ready for supplies needed from the Castari, too."

"We're certainly taking full advantage of their kindness," Lyrr quipped.

"We are," Matt said. "And hopefully, in this, we can find some way to thank them without compromising the Federation, Starfleet, or ship. From your report, they seem to be congenial enough." He flashed her a grin, then turned back to the comm. "Very good, Lieutenant. Just let us know which systems and where we can't let the crew wander. If necessary, we can erect temporary shelters outside the ship if we need to empty Sulu for repairs."

"Will do. Sending the information through now." A beep on the command panel let the Captain know the information had arrived.

Marp's toothy smile stretched from ear to ear. In Marp's opinion, landing the Sulu was a major accomplishment. It also meant that the Sulu no longer needed a helmsman to fly her, and he hoped that meant he would be able to get some shore leave. Marp wondered if the people on this planet had ever met a Ferengi.

"Captain," Xayella called out from her station. "Permission to assemble a team to carry out a scientific survey of the local flora and fauna. It would certainly give my people something to do while our dear chief takes his time in repairing those sensors." The remark was clearly intended for the engineer still listening through the comm.

There was a hmph of indignation from the other end of the comm-link in Main Engineering.

"Go ahead, Lieutenant," Matt said. "I imagine there's a lot to see down here."

She grinned at Matt, then swung out of her chair and started off the bridge. Lyrr frowned. "Captain, you will send a chaperone down with her, won't you?"

Matt watched after Xay for a moment, then looked back to Lyrr. "Do you suppose the science department might be a sufficient chaperone?"

Lyrr shrugged. "If they're capable of restraining her...enthusiasm."

"We'll keep a watch on her," Matt said with a strained smile. He just hoped everything went smoothly. After a moment, Matt took a breath, let it out, and turned back to Lyrr. "Based on your meeting, Number One, how would you suggest we proceed with diplomatic talks with the Castari? I was thinking myself, Counsellor Scott, possibly Lt. Savaar, and perhaps a security officer. Your thoughts?"

"Lieutenant Bennett performed well," she answered. "And Lieutenant Casey was...quiet, for a change." Lyrr smiled thinly. "I got the impression he was trying to be on his best behaviour. Frankly, I don't believe he's comfortable deferring to Bennett, or any woman, for that matter. That said," she added, "I think he should be included. He's capable, even if he's slightly chauvinistic."

Matt acknowledged with a nod. "And Lieutenant Bennett?"

Lyrr smirked. "Our officers will need some looking after on the planet, won't they?"

Matt chuckled. "Very well," he said. "Though, perhaps Mr. Hex would like to split shifts with the Lieutenant if she'd like to take some time for shore leave. We can put her in charge of the planetside security with Lieutenant Hex as her assistant."

"I wonder if Ben would approve," she mused, and at once her features darkened. "I'll assemble the team," Lyrr muttered and rose. As an afterthought, she asked Matt, "If you approve, of course...."

"I approve," Matt said with a smile. "And, I'm certain Commander T'Kal would approve. He is the one who recommended Lieutenant Bennett as his assistant." He grinned at her. "You can join us for the diplomacy, if you'd like."

Lyrr chuckled dryly. "Oh...no thank you, Captain. I had plenty of that on Risa. I think I'll just stay behind and take care of the ship." With a nod, she teased, "Enjoy yourself." Then she departed. After she'd gone, Matt stood up. "Sam, I'm going to meet with our hosts. Until I return, the ship is yours." With that, he started off the bridge. He couldn't help wondering, with a nearly-giddy smile, what it would be like to actually stand on a planet again.

---

"Overdue Visit"
By: Commander Lyrr Tayla
Ensign Alexia Johnstone

Location: Sickbay, USS Sulu
Stardate 57910.29, 23h00

***

After giving a verbal report to Matt on the Away Team's excursion to Castari Alpha's surface, and having suffered from restlessness and lack of concentration through the ship's landing - what should have been an otherwise exciting event - Lyrr Tayla finally arrived at Ben's bedside, even though her mind had never left. He'd resided in a private room since the operation to repair his heart, and hadn't woken since. She only left his side to go on duty, but slept and would've eaten there as well if she'd had an appetite. All she did was sit for eight hours, holding his limp hand and stroking his hair.

The touch of his still-warm skin was the reassurance she needed to convince her he still lived. His eyes were circled in dark bruises and his once strongly defined cheeks were sunken. His face seemed ashen to the point where she barely recognized him as the once golden tiger, always full of life and passion. Still, Lyrr hadn't shed a tear, hadn't felt anything since the incident.

Her dispassion only served to fuel rumours about what truly had happened that night in the Holodeck. All anyone knew for certain was the Chief of Security had been beamed to sickbay bleeding out of a wound in his chest, with the ship's Executive Officer standing by, covered in his blood. A lover's quarrel was the first notion that came to mind, and the most popular judging from its high level of circulation through the rumour mill. Only the captain, Counsellor Scott, and those who worked on Ben knew the truth, and even then only Matt and Scott were given the full details.

But it was just Lyrr who truly comprehended what he had done. He'd died, for a matter of minutes ceased to exist, and in that time the bond between he and Tebrianne had been severed. It was a bloody, nearly fatal response, but Ben had answered Lyrr's demands with the most expedient and effective solution. Yet, she was neither happy, nor grief-stricken. Lyrr Tayla felt nothing, save for exhaustion. Finally, they could live without Tebrianne's interference and devote their hearts fully to one another, but only if Ben opened his eyes again.

Lyrr sighed and sank back in the chair. She smiled wryly. "I'm spent, Ben," she whispered. "After everything...I'm just so tired. I only hope you have more fight left in you than I do."

Lexi Johnstone walked into the room where Ben was being nursed to complete his routine checks, and saw Lyrr sitting by his bedside again. She had been spending as much time as possible with the injured man, but had shown very little emotion, which Lexi found surprising given the circumstances. Ben was lucky to be alive, and Lexi couldn't figure the lack of emotion from the ship's XO. "Hey there," she said as she smiled gently at the other woman. "How're you holding up?"

Lyrr Tayla inclined her head at the woman, and answered with a dismissive, "I'm not the one you should be concerned about, Ensign." Her hard, impassive eyes stared sightlessly at Ben. "Did he awaken while I was gone?"

Lexi glanced at the readouts above Ben and saw that there had been no significant changes, then looked back at the other woman in disbelief. She was shocked at the other woman's tone of voice, and the fact that it was aimed at her. "It is my duty to be concerned for all my patients, and that includes the families or loved ones of the patient," she said. "I'm sorry that you don't see the need for someone to be concerned about you, and yes, we are concerned about Ben. He's doing well given the circumstances that he's in at the moment, and no, he didn't waken while you were gone."

Lexi was determined to be as professional as she had ever been. It was a shame, really, because she knew deep in her heart that Lyrr Tayla needed someone to care about how she was doing at the moment, and the only way that could occur, was for the other woman to actually see that she too had needs.

Something had gone amazingly wrong for this 'accident' to occur, and Lexi didn't know what it was. She had heard the talk about the bond between Ben and Tebrianne, and knew enough to know that the bond was permanent. What she didn't understand, was the bond between Ben and Lyrr...and how the triangle fitted together. All Lexi knew, was that all three of them must have been going through absolute torment trying to sort it all out.

"Tell me, Ensign" --Lyrr's haggard voice grabbed Lexi's attention once more-- "will he truly be alright? I know what the doctor's prognosis was, but...I believe M'lira was simply trying to alleviate my concern by withholding the true extent of his injury." Lyrr's thumb brushed over the back of his hand as she stared fixedly at Ben's lifeless expression. "What I'm asking is...will he truly be normal again after this?"

Lexi looked long and hard at Lyrr. It wasn't so hard to understand what was happening in the other woman's head. One minute she was snappy, then the next she appeared to care very deeply, and Lexi knew that it was all part of the grieving process. Whether Lyrr wanted to accept it or not, she seriously needed some help. Lexi also had the feeling that it would not be she who provided that help so desperately needed; somehow she couldn't see Lyrr accepting it from her, although if Lyrr was willing, then Lexi would have done all in her power to help her.

She nodded to Lyrr as she looked at Ben. "I can only reiterate what M'lira has told you. The prognosis is good - there should be no lasting damage. So, to answer your question, yes, he should be truly normal after this."

Lexi took a breath as she pondered whether to ask the next question, then decided she would ask it anyway. The worst that could happen would be that Lyrr would bite her head off for asking, but Lexi decided her shoulders were broad enough to cope with the reprisals she knew would likely come. After all, she wouldn't be doing her job properly if she didn't at least make some attempt again to help the other woman.

"Now...about you. I understand that you're concerned about Ben, and you probably think I'm butting in where I don't belong, but I'm concerned about you. I know you probably don't think I should be, but I am. Have you spoken to anyone about the way you're feeling?" Lexi waited for the blowup that she was sure would come.

"Ensign," Lyrr said lowly, flatly. There was a long pause, during which Lyrr swivelled in her chair to look directly at Lexi. Even her eyes were devoid of intensity as she stared at the woman. "I'm feeling fine," she answered woodenly. "Your concern is noted. But truly, it isn't required. I'll survive well enough."

As she scrutinized Lyrr, Lexi was slightly deflated. She had been expecting an outburst and hadn't gotten one. Still, when she believed she was right, she wasn't one to back down. And she knew she was right in this case! The total lack of emotion shown by Lyrr was not good as far as Lexi was concerned. There had to be a way to get the other woman to talk!

As she pondered the situation, Lexi continued doing her routine checks on Ben. He remained stable, and there wasn't really a lot to do for him at the present. She turned back to the Bajoran, wondering just what it would take for her to crack. Only then would her healing truly begin.

"I'm concerned that you see that surviving is enough at present. I don't believe that it is enough." Lexi took another breath in and continued, more determined than ever to push the XO's buttons. "There has been talk throughout the medical department as to the who and how of the circumstances. General consensus is that the wound is self-inflicted. I would imagine that the self-infliction of the wound and its location was not done as an error of judgement. I notice that you are still wearing your betrothal bracelet, and as we had to remove Ben's prior to surgery, I'm guessing that Ben did not inflict his injuries on himself as a result of a breakup between the two of you."

Lexi pushed on. "As far as I can see, you have a few options. You do need to speak to someone about this, whether you agree with my assessment or not. In my professional opinion, you are not coping. There is more to living than just surviving, as you so succinctly put it. Therefore I am offering you three options. You can seek out a counsellor who you trust, and discuss this with them, and risk being taken off duty due to your mental status. You can talk on a non-professional basis with me confidentially, and know that I will not repeat anything you tell me, or you can choose to continue on in the manner that you are at present, and know that I will discuss my theories with the counselling department at my earliest convenience. I will give you a few minutes to make your choice." With that said, Lexi moved away from the Bajoran woman, and busied herself restocking the equipment on the other side of the room.

When otherwise she would have taken offense to the perceived threat and delivered a severe rebuke to the woman, Lyrr, instead, calmly removed her hand from Ben's and rose from her chair. She towered over his prone form in silence, the only sound issuing from Ben's monitors and the accompanying noises of Lexi shuffling instruments. Yet, when she spoke again, her voice was soft enough that it hardly disrupted the quietude. "I don't need a confidante, Ensign. But...I will tell you this: I'm in love with Benedict T'kal, and he with me. I'm not grieving over this because it was the result of a choice Ben made, and he chose a life with me." Looking over her shoulder at Lexi, Lyrr surprised her with a smile. "How can I be sad when he's made the greatest sacrifice possible for me? I'm...as happy as I've ever been. Why should a counsellor need to hear about that?"

Without thought, Lexi found herself automatically responding with a smile of her own. Now she was really surprised. She honestly had expected a different reaction, but this was good. At least Lyrr was actually talking about what had happened. "You know, I'm really not being pushy because I enjoy it; I don't. It's just that you don't look like you're happy. You don't seem to have anyone who can support you, and sometimes you need a friend to talk to...even if it is just to tell them how happy you are! Or, for that matter, how worried you are.

"I was wondering," Lexi continued, "whether you would like to have Ben's bracelet for safe keeping until he is able to wear it again?" Lexi wondered what the effect would be on the other woman when she actually saw Ben's bracelet.

Lyrr's flat, stolid expression faltered momentarily. Her arms came up around herself, as if shielding the crack in her armour Lexi had exposed. "His bracelet," she repeated haltingly. "He'd-- It should be on his wrist."

"I know," explained Lexi. "But we had to take it off prior to his surgery...part of policies and procedures unfortunately." She noted the protective stance that Lyrr had adopted. It read a thousand words into a voiceless story. As she reached into a pocket on her uniform and withdrew the bracelet, Lexi's eyes remained on the Bajoran woman. "Would you like to hold it?" she asked as she held it out to her.

Lyrr followed the band as it moved towards her, and forced an exhale. With Ben's bond to Teb broken, his link to Lyrr was renewed and far stronger than before - she felt that much, especially when she was near him. The bracelet - a symbol of their unity - truly belonged to him now. She claimed it from Lexi's hand quickly, possessively, and held it to her chest between her folded hands. "Thank you," she whispered, and in her voice was the first sign of emotion she'd displayed since arriving.

As Lyrr reached out and took the bracelet, Lexi smiled a genuine smile. At last, a sign of some true emotion. It had been an effort, but maybe now they would be able to make some sort of breakthrough. She really did believe that Lyrr would be alright now.

"I'll just sit with him a while longer," she muttered absently once she had returned to her seat. "Then...I have a meeting to attend. You will remember that only senior staff is allowed to visit him, won't you?"

Lexi nodded in agreement. "Of course. I wouldn't dream of letting anyone else in without permission," she replied. As Lyrr resumed her seat next to Ben, Lexi began another set of routine obs on him. She felt happier now, having seen the change in Lyrr's manner. All that mattered now, was for Ben to recover. And that was definitely going to happen.

After a time, Lyrr again broke the silence, halting Lexi. "And if Lieutenant Bancroft seeks permission to see him...." Lyrr fell silent as she studied her smaller hand barely covering Ben's. "Give her clearance, will you, Ensign?"

What the... Lexi thought as she mentally took a step backwards. A perplexed look crossed her face. "Would you like me to notify you before I let her in? Wouldn't you prefer to be here if she does come?

"Not at all," she replied without hesitation. "They had a history, you see. I'm sure he wouldn't mind an old friend coming to visit." Her significant choice of words was difficult to miss.

Lexi's brow knitted together in consternation. She wasn't sure it was a particularly good thing, but if Lyrr was happy to leave the two of them alone, then that was her choice. "In that case, I will allow her in."

What Lexi didn't say, was that she would try to keep a general eye on the visit without being nosey. She felt she owed that much to the XO. The other woman's words had sent a chill down Lexi's spine, and sent her mind spinning off on a tangent all of its own. She also knew it would be hard, but as far as she was concerned, her patient came first. She didn't want anything upsetting Ben that might set him back, and if Ben and Lieutenant Bancroft had a 'history' together, who knew what might happen.

Without having been told in as many words, Lexi surmised that the nature of the injury had something to do with this 'history'. She knew Lieutenant Bancroft was part Vulcan, and guessed the 'history' had something to do with a relationship between her and Ben. Given the fact that bonds Vulcans made with their partners were permanent and could only be broken through death.... Lexi's mind grappled with the thought that followed. Could this 'injury' be a result of Ben trying to sever a bond with Lieutenant Bancroft?

Lexi turned to the XO with a look of puzzlement on her face. Was she on the right track? Dared she ask the other woman? Lexi knew she had said and done some outrageous things in her time, but she really didn't think she had the courage to actually voice her thoughts this time.

"Ensign?" Lyrr said quietly. She looked over her shoulder at the woman, appearing as if she had something significant to tell her. All she did say was, "Could you please leave me alone with him for a while?"

Lexi nodded. "As you wish. I would ask that you remember, though, that I'm here whenever you might want to talk...and I think I understand more than you might realise. I've been told I have a good ear if you need it. I also do actually know when to keep my mouth shut, even though sometimes it might appear that I am too outspoken." Lexi nodded at the XO again, as she walked out of the room, still pondering whether she should have asked that vitally important question. Only time would tell what would happen, and Lexi knew that some interesting times lay ahead.

---

"Dammit Blacksby! Your Coordinates Are Just A Wee Bit Off!"
By: CPO Calyca Boothroyd, Engineering
Petty Officer 3rd Class Garret Blacksby [NPC], Engineering
Petty Officer 3rd Class Eric Corel [NPC], Engineering

Location: USS Sulu
Stardate: 57910.29, 23h20

***

"Petty Officer Corel to Chief Boothroyd," the voice came over Caly's comm badge, disturbing the quiet of hers and Jurell's quarters.

Jurell was asleep and she'd taken to using a anti-grav chair in their new quarters to get around more easily. Her legs were getting better, no doubt thanks not only to the rigorous physical therapy, but also to the additional toning exercises her husband-to-be had diligently been insisting on. She was finally starting to be able to get around on her own with some help.

"Booter here. What can I do for you, Mister Corel?" She never took her eyes off the circuit relay she was in the middle of repairing.

Good to his word, Thaine had indeed set her up with a 'station' in her quarters and she'd been assigned a whole slew of repairs that were both time consuming and exacting. And all of which required her to be sitting down to perform. By doing that, she'd freed up the more able-bodied engineers to keep after the more physical 'onsite' ship's repairs, which there were a plethora of.

"Ma'am... The Powers-that-be are planning on landing us and I've been at this stabilizer circuit for three hours now. I know there's a problem here, but I can't seem to isolate it no matter what I do. Could I get you to take a look at it?" he asked.

"Mmhmm... Give me five minutes...." she replied.

"Aye, ma'am. I'll be right here," Corel half joked.

It took Caly exactly three and a half minutes to finish what she was doing and another minute to gather her gear and leave a note on her pillow in case Jurell woke up. They'd settled into their new quarters and living arrangement as if it were totally natural for them. Oh, not that they weren't having their share of adjustments, and still were. But for the most part, at least so far, they'd been minor.

Her penchant for leaving her shoes wherever she happened to take them off had her spiders actively hiding the things after the first time the big Bajoran tripped over one of them. And he'd put a stop to her habit of bringing her work to bed when he'd rolled over onto an electronic part in the middle of the night that had him springing bolt upright out of a dead sleep and cursing in his native tongue. Of course he did it in a way that left her gasping for breath and not caring one bit that he'd snatched the project right out of her hands and tossed it over his shoulder.

She pressed a warm kiss to his brow and evaded the hand that tried to drag her into bed by pressing a warm kiss on it too. She didn't pay any attention to the three or so spiders that either crawled into her pack or attached themselves to her clothing, and tapped her comm badge to activate it.

"Chief Boothroyd to Petty Officer Blacksby."

"Blacksby here. Where to this time, Chief?" Blacksby responded.

Even though she'd been put to work in her quarters, it wasn't unusual for Blacksby to get a call to transport her to some spot on the ship that called for her attention. Thaine had reluctantly agreed to the arrangement and made sure she wasn't given anything outside the parameters of her physical limitations. The engineering crew knew by now what she could and couldn't safely do.

"Wherever Petty Officer Corel is, if you please," she replied, and her form shimmered into the blue light of the transporter.

"Chief!"

Corel's exclamation was matched by Caly's "ooof," and her immediate, and muffled, "Dammit Blacksby! Your coordinates are just a wee bit off!"

"Christ... Sorry Eric..." She scooted herself back as much as she could in the Jefferies Tube until she was clear of the red-faced Petty Officer.

"Sorry, ma'am..." came Blacksby's immediate response, but Caly and Corel could both hear good-natured snickering in the background along with Paddy's booming voice chastising the lot of them and heaping Irish curses on their heads.

---

"Meeting Royalty"
By: Captain Matthew Salinger
Lieutenant Saavar
Lieutenant Brennyn Scott
Lieutenant Derran Casey [NPC+]

Location: Castari Alpha
Stardate 57910.29, 23h25

***

The room was large, but not exceptionally so. It was comfortable, which, from Matt's minimal exposure to the planet so far, seemed to be the norm. Everything was geared toward providing the best, most comfortable life for the population as was possible. It showed in the buildings, the landscape, the clothing, and even in how people dealt with one another. It couldn't be denied that this place was filled with happiness. After the Sulu's recent experiences, a little happiness was more than welcome.

They all sat at the table. It was low, with cushions for seating. The cushions were designed to mold to the contours of the body, and provide a little extra support for the back. As he shifted and the cushion shifted with him, Matt couldn't help but wonder what it would take to get one of these for his Ready Room. He'd wait until after the meeting to ponder what a Castari bed might be like.

"We're very fortunate to have found you, and you us, Faelen," Matt said with a smile for the planetary official. "You have a remarkable planet here. I'm certain you've already heard how similar it is to one of our own. I can't tell you how delighted we all are. Being this far from home, to find someplace so hospitable and welcoming, it's very encouraging."

"I am glad," Metah enthused. He hadn't ceased fluttering about the room since Matt and his entourage arrived - one consisting of Lieutenant Brennyn Scott, Lieutenant Saavar, and Lieutenant Casey from security. The man was absolutely bubbly. "Our esteemed Raj and Der-Raj were quite intrigued when they learned of your arrival. They shall be joining us shortly."

Matt grinned, looked around at his own crew, then back up to Metah. "I look forward to meeting them," he said. "I'm very grateful that you and your people could accommodate us while we repair our ship. If there is anything you require of us, as long as it does not conflict with our standing orders, I'll see it done."

Metah grinned. "It is not my place to ask anything of you, Captain. That is up to the Raj and Der-Raj."

"Very well," Matt said with a smile. "I will reserve that offer for them. Though, if you don't mind my asking, are they the leaders of your planet? The terms bear some familiarity to titles of royalty from my own home planet."

Metah's eyes grew wide and he rushed forward in his excitement towards Matt. "Truly, Captain? We must be far more similar than I could ever have hoped!" He folded his legs beneath his sizeable torso to kneel beside Matt. "They are this planet's two rulers, you are correct. They are both such noble, gracious men who have served us well for the past twenty years. We have been utterly blessed to have them leading this planet, with both gentle hearts and hands." Metah sighed whimsically. "Praise them both...."

"That's wonderful to hear. Sometimes it can be very difficult to find such able leaders. If you have the time, how does your system of government function? The Federation has a unique, at least from our side of the galaxy, structure to it."

"I would be most eager to learn of that when you have a moment, Captain." By his beaming smile, it was clear Metah was being entirely sincere. "The Raj and Der-Raj rule in conjunction with one another. Both have equal power and sway, yet we are lucky enough to have found two leaders who share similar views on what is best for the Castari people. Beneath them are ambassadors and delegates, such as myself." He giggled with mirth. "We serve both the Raj and Der-Raj equally, even though some of us are of the Norkrck and some of the Chawla."

"The terms are for the differences in skin tone?" Saavar asked. "I notice that there are two distinct feature types amongst your population."

Metah clapped lightly and briskly. "Very astute, sir! There are two cultures on our planet." He bowed his head. "I am Norkrck. We diverged centuries ago, but we are still one people, living in blissful unity."

Saavar nodded. "It was a logical conclusion," he pointed out in typical Vulcan manner. "One people, ruled by two leaders, each of the different caste, living in harmony but remaining segregated. Have you developed differing customs with your divergence?" The Vulcan asked. "I would assume that intermarriage is a taboo?"

"Oh, by no means," Metah answered rather quickly. "People just...stick to their own kind, that is all." He smiled, then quickly scrambled to his feet as the ceremonial bell sounded, announcing the arrival of Castari's leaders. Metah urged Matt and his party to rise as well as he scampered towards the thick, doubledoors to find his place.

Before them, a young man stepped forward to present the two dignitaries. "Raj Daheel," he bellowed regally. "Der-Raj Monil." The man bowed curtly then moved aside.

The doors swung open slowly, and two purple-robed figures preceded another pair of men, ones unmistakably of a higher status than the first two. Their robes were of a deep red and the other a vibrant blue. Flowing capes draped from their shoulders and brushed the ground as they strode forward, both a bright golden colour, the mark of true royalty. Raj Daheel was a typical Norkrck with his golden hair coloured white with age, and intensely grey eyes that bespoke of an inner strength and confidence that came with years of successful rule. Der-Raj Monil was dark-skinned, as with all of his people, and carried the tell-tale forehead markings of the Chawla.

The short procession ended before Matt and his party. The Rajs' dual entourage stepped aside to reveal their leaders to the away team.

Matt bowed before each of the leaders. "Raj Daheel, Der-Raj Monil, I am Captain Matthew T. Salinger, commanding officer of the USS Hikaru Sulu, of the United Federation of Planets. It is our greatest honour to come before you."

"Intercepting your ship's signal has been a fortuitous accident, Captain," Daheel responded sedately. He stood tall and straight-backed - exuding a dignified air.

Saavar bowed along with the rest, making sure to reach the correct depth, yet remaining with eyes fixed upon the exchange of the rulers and his captain. There did not seem to be any cultural diversity in the manner of their greeting, though Metah's earlier response that his people simply stick to their own gave him pause. For a culture so outwardly harmonious and totally divided, divergent for only a few centuries as they indicated, would mean very strong cohesion to their own. It would not be a simple matter of choice, when this culture so obviously desired comforts and pleasurable pursuits. There had to be something that prevented them crossing the racial boundary, as many in the Federation did so often. Shirik and Saavar were a prime example. He wondered what these people would make of them.

Derran Casey kept silent and remained watchful. He carried a Mark 1 phaser tucked into the waist sash of his uniform. The small and flat weapon was perfect for functions such as this, where obvious displays of weapons would be contrary to the situation. He kept a congenial smile and memorised details; exits, windows, absence of guards...it was all in the detail.

Der-Raj Monil turned a smile on those in the room, known and unknown. He placed his palms together and graciously inclined his head. "It is a joy and privilege for us to meet with visitors from so far away." His darker hair was coiled into a thick braid that came to the center of his back. "I only hope that our hospitality can rise to the level that you deserve. We see so few visitors here, that your presence is a rare treat for us. It is not often we have the opportunity to share our culture, our love of life and living with others. Be welcome here among us, and share the joys that life of Castari has to offer."

"We thank you for your offer," the captain said. "As I have said, your planet appears to be just what we need after recent encounters. I only hope there is some way we can repay the kindness you have shown us."

"Speak to us of your Quadrant," Daheel suggested. "Of your adventures. We do not often engage in any of our own, so such tales would certainly please us."

Metah twittered from off to the side and clapped his hands exuberantly. "Oh, yes, yes! A truly wonderful idea, your grace." He pranced towards the round table situated at the centre of the room and boasting a beautiful pattern of intricate scrollwork on its surface. "Shall we?" he offered, spreading his arms wide to indicate the conference table.

"Thank you very much," Matt said. He took a seat at the table, and once everyone was settled, started in on their adventure in the Gamma Quadrant so far. He made certain to avoid anything too sensitive, though that didn't seem to be too difficult. After some stories, he switched gears, telling their hosts about the Federation and some of the planets. He steered clear of the Dominion, knowing that they'd had their own issues with the Dominion, opting instead to enlighten the Castari with new information that perhaps they hadn't heard before. "It's really quite amazing, the Federation," he said. "So many cultures living together, surviving together, and existing in peace together."

"Such as your comrade?" Daheel surmised, nodding towards Saavar. "Is he an offshoot of your own species?"

"Lt. Saavar is a Vulcan," Matt said with a smile for the science officer. Saavar bowed his head slightly to acknowledge the fact that the discussion was directed at him rather than to him. "It's a planet very near to my own home planet of Earth. It was actually the Vulcans' encountering humanity's first warp flight several centuries ago that led to the forming of the Federation. Our ship has representatives from many of the species throughout the Federation aboard. I'm certain you will see many of them over the course of our stay here."

Daheel nodded his head pensively and made an approving sound. "Lt. Saavar, I would very much enjoy speaking with you later if you are interested. We Castari are very intrigued by other cultures." He smiled thinly. "Perhaps because we don't often encounter any foreigners."

Saavar inclined his head and gave a smile. "I would be most pleased to comply," he replied. "I am at your disposal."

From her place at the table, Brennyn Scott smiled politely and listened quietly, but otherwise preferred to remain a silent observer. Was it just her or were these people a little too good to be true? Were they a little too trusting, a little too eager to proclaim just how at peace they were with one another?

Perhaps they doth protest too much...

Or perhaps the counselor was simply so used to hearing the other shoe drop, she was beginning to spend all her time with her ear to the sky and her hands protecting her head. Maybe it was time to give someone the benefit of the doubt. She was a diplomat's daughter after all.

"I'd like to express my personal thanks as well, your graces. I'm responsible for ensuring the crew are psychologically healthy, and I daresay this opportunity for shoreleave was exactly what they needed. Our last few missions have been particularly challenging."

"Then avail yourselves of our planet's many offerings," Daheel told her graciously. "You are our guests on this planet. And as such, we have arranged for accommodations in the city. Your people are free to stay for as long as they like."

"We thank you in advance for all the hospitality you have shown us, and that which I am certain we will see in the future," Matt said. "I look forward to seeing the beauty your planet has to offer."

"Again, Captain Salinger and members of the USS Sulu crew, we welcome you to Castari and hope your stay here is filled with joy and beauty as each day in life should be. We hope that you and your crew will be able to attend a small feast we would wish to hold in your honour. It will begin tomorrow night, just after the sun has set." Monil shared a pleasant smile with Daheel, both of them obviously in agreement on the feast.

Matt grinned. "I'm certain my crew, and myself, will be very happy to attend. Thank you for your offer."

"If there is anything else you require, Metah will gladly make appropriate arrangements," Daheel told them. Metah beamed. "Enjoy your stay amongst us, Captain and Crew of the Sulu."

Matt nodded. "Thank you," he said. "I'll contact you with any additional requests or needs that may arise. For now, we are just happy to have someplace to rest for a little while."

Daheel and Monil bowed their heads in like-minded unison, then rolled back on their feet and unfolded their legs. Metah rose as well, but remained obsequiously hunched before his leaders. "Metah will see to your needs, Captain. And...welcome to Castari Alpha," Daheel pronounced humbly, and just as they had come, the procession of guards and the two Rajs departed.

Bree watched them depart, still not sure what to make of things. She was sure her parents were rolling around in their graves because she dared to question such a show of good faith. Then again, her parents had never met the Enforcers or Catherine Page. She remained silent for the moment, choosing to give herself more time to mull things over. Suspicion was not her style. She'd depend on security for that and sort the rest out later.

Matt Salinger watched the planet's leaders leave with a smile. Once they had left, he turned to Metah. "Again, your planet and your people are most welcoming," he said. "We thank you. Now, if you're not busy and have no other pressing matters to attend to, I was wondering if you might wish to show us around. I'm looking forward to hearing more about your people and about the types of recreation we can expect to find here."

Metah rubbed his hands together in anticipation. "Of course, of course! Splendid, Captain, absolutely splendid!" And barely stifling a giggle, he scurried towards the door, thinking of all the planet's wonders he could impress Castari's newest friends with.

---