"Pep Talk"
By: Commander Lyrr Tayla
Captain Matt Salinger

Location: Captain's Ready Room, USS Sulu
Stardate 57911.01, 06h10

***

Having neglected to set the automated alarm in Ben's quarters, Lyrr was spared the very embarrassing situation of arriving at the shuttle bay late by a summons from Captain Salinger. After the long, exhausting night she and Ben had spent together, Lyrr was still groggy leaving his quarters at 06h00; having dressed in a rush, she zippered her jacket closed on her way to the turbolift, and gave her hair a quick comb-through with her fingers upon entering.

The goodbye she and Ben had shared was far more hurried than either would have preferred, but she doubted he could remain awake long enough for a lengthier one; the night had sapped him of what little strength he had managed to regain after his injury, and soon after she had lightly kissed him farewell, his heavy lids fell closed again as sleep weaved its spell once more. She smiled at the image still lingering in the forefront of her mind. When she returned, she would make certain to tell him how adorable he looked while he slept.

The trip to Deck 1 was short, as was the stroll to Matt's Ready Room, during which she took the time to review the mission plan. She was glad not to have passed it up, but there was still guilt in knowing she was leaving Ben behind in his current state. There would be plenty of subspace messages coming his way during the week.

At Matt's door, Lyrr tucked the padd smartly under her arm and stood straight-backed as she announced herself. The call to enter came, and Lyrr stepped through. "I hope I'm not late, Captain."

Matt stood from his desk and moved around to the front. "Not at all," he said. "You've still got thirty minutes before you'll need to be in the shuttlebay, but I wanted to talk to you before you left. Actually, it's partly because last night, Ben asked me to speak with you. But, I'd like to speak with you myself as well. But, first, how are you holding up this morning?"

Lyrr frowned slightly. "I'm fine, Captain... You said Ben asked you to talk with me? About what?"

"I believe he wanted me to let you know that everything will be fine from now on," Matt said. "That his confusion and conflicted feelings were what caused his outbursts yesterday, and his actions during the crisis. I was concerned, for a moment...and perhaps a little longer, that he might try to...do something rash. Again. After the words exchanged with you yesterday."

The jovial mood she had found herself in that morning, after the night with Ben, quickly soured. Her arms crossed her chest stiffly, expressing her discomfort. "I just...I don't understand why he would need to have you relay such a message to me," she said tautly. "Was there another reason he wished for us to speak?"

"Not that I'm aware of," Matt answered. "Lyrr, your private life is none of my business, but yours and his abilities to do your jobs to the best of your abilities is. Is everything alright between the two of you? How often do you and Ben argue? How often do you have fights that result in shouting or worse?"

"We're Bajoran," Lyrr explained defensively. "And Bajoran women are known for their fiery tempers." She sighed sharply and regarded Matt boldly. "Captain, are you asking me to reconsider my relationship with Lt. Commander T'Kal?"

"Commander, your fiancé is recovering from a self-inflicted wound that nearly killed him. If you want to get technical, it did kill him, but he was revived in Sickbay. Yesterday, I witnessed an argument between the two of you, and after you left the room, I wasn't sure if he wasn't going to try to do it again. I understand fiery, Lyrr, but what I witnessed yesterday and what landed Commander T'Kal into sickbay goes beyond fiery by quite a stretch."

"I know," she sighed, and her shoulders sagged in defeat. "Things are complicated.... We argue and things might get out of hand...but that was different. It...it was the bond. He couldn't live like that, Captain. Neither of us could. He just did what he thought was best for both of us."

Matt raised a skeptical eyebrow. "By plunging a knife into his chest? By dying? There are legitimate and less deadly ways to remove telepathic bonds," he said. "And Sickbay has a number of cortical enhancers, inhibitors that can help to reduce and eliminate telepathic signals sent by another. The two of you are both too damn proud for your own good, and if you're not careful, one of you is going to end up dead. Don't sit in your quarters, shouting at each other, stabbing each other, when help is available. We've lost too many people already, Lyrr. I can't afford to lose you...not as my executive officer and not as a friend."

"I've tried," she whispered, her eyes closing tightly as her chin dropped to her chest. This was the first sign of helplessness she had ever displayed to Matt. "I suggested separate quarters after it happened...that maybe we needed some distance...." Lyrr shook her head somberly. "It's too hard, Matt. We rely on one another, and to even think about parting...it scares us both. I've never done this sort of thing before...and I don't know what I'm supposed to do."

"I don't know if I have the answers," Matt said. "I know you wouldn't want to, and will probably fight vehemently not to, but you might consider speaking with Bree." He held up a hand to stave off her argument. "And, before you fight against me on that, consider that she might be able to help you, and the next time Sickbay might not be able to bring him back. How many times has Ben turned his knife on himself?"

Lyrr looked away, ashamed to admit a fact that was only supporting his argument. "It...it only happened one other time." She sighed, shaking her head. "It was after the hockey game blow-up.... But you don't understand what he's like," Lyrr insisted. "He holds honour and pride high above all other things. I disrespected him that night...I shouldn't have. But that doesn't mean he's suicidal, Captain."

"Anyone who willingly plunges a weapon into their own body with the intent to take their own life is," Matt said. "How many times do you suppose he'd done that before he met you? I'd be willing to bet, based on the little I know, at least two other times. Then again, it may have been more than that. If being dishonoured and disrespected carried the penalty of death, I should be dead several times over. If you want my advice -- that was rhetorical, you're getting it anyway -- he's too caught up in himself and his honour. If he can't deal with his own embarrassment, he's got issues. It's all well and good to be an honourable person, but to toss your life away because someone embarrassed you? If he can't accept life's trials like a living, breathing, valuable member of the Federation...well, maybe his solution would be the best. I need someone I can count on in that position, and I think you need someone you can count on as a partner; not someone who's going to plunge a knife into his gut ever time he believes he's been slighted."

"Is this your opinion, Captain?" she asked with a slight edge to her voice. "Or are you going to order me to do something I won't like?"

"It's my opinion," Matt said. "But you're a stubborn woman, Lyrr. I know you'd rather see your life destroyed, your relationship obliterated, and the man you love killed by his own outmoded and archaic code of honour than to reach out and accept any help from those around you who are concerned for you and are more than willing to help you in any way they can. But, that choice is yours, Lyrr. If you don't want my help, that's your thing. You keep arguing with Ben; you keep watching him destroy himself. And, I hope that in the end the two of you aren't destroyed in the process. I understand the issue of pride, and I won't force myself in where I know you don't want me. I just hope you have the common sense to seek help before it really is too late."

His words frightened her, that much was obvious from the sudden pallor that suffused her face. She stared distantly at the carpet and began to visibly tremble. She and Ben both were always so content to deal with their problems privately; the trouble was, neither was stable enough to offer any aid whatsoever to one another. Exhaling raggedly, Lyrr moved sluggishly to the chair before Matt's desk and slumped into it. "How--" She shifted her gaze mechanically to Matt. A tear trickled unnoticed to Lyrr from one eye. "How do I fix this, then, Matt? How can we seek outside help when he becomes offended by the truth in front of others? I love him, and I need him...but what can I do?"

"The best thing I can suggest," Matt said softly, "is to seek help for yourself, get yourself in a good place, then see what you can do for him. In the end, he has to want to help himself. If he doesn't, then there's little you can do. It's not easy to accept, but it's like the old Earth adage about leading horses to water."

Comprehension of his byword wasn't necessary for Lyrr to grasp his meaning. It was difficult to even think about what he was suggesting. "You're saying I just...let him go for a while? Even after everything we've been through?"

"Not let him go," Matt said. "But, if he doesn't want to seek help, you can't force him to go. You can force him to a counsellor, but you can't force him to get better. He has to do that, and he has to want it. For now, you need to encourage him and help him how you can. I'm not a counsellor though, all I can give you is the advice that sounds good to me. When you get back from the mission, you should talk to one of the counsellors and see what they say. They really are here to help us, and it's not a weakness to talk to someone who has a better insight into our psyches."

Lyrr smiled weakly. "I've listened to the advice of others before, Matt. It only seems to complicate matters. I just don't know why we can't have something normal." She chuckled tearfully and gazed up at Matt. "How do you and Tagliesh do it?"

"I'm not sure," Matt said. "We both love each other very much, we give each other space when we need it, we try to keep work and rank out of the relationship, and I try not to take her actions as a personal affront to myself."

"I see," she murmured, staring at her nervously tangled fingers resting upon her lap. "There's just so much passion between Ben and I, we can't bear to give each other space. He...he's my support, Matt. We've both had rocky pasts, and we've helped each other cope with that." She smiled ironically. "We're bonded...just as he was with Teb. Funny how that's what got us into this mess to begin with."

"You need to be able to survive on your own, stand on your own, before you can truly rely on another. To do otherwise, if anything happens, everything can come crashing down. You both don't want that. You want to be healthy apart, so you can be healthier and happier together."

"I understand," she answered quietly. Her posture, her voice, her entire demeanour bespoke of dejection. Realizing exposing such in front of her commanding officer wasn't prudent, Lyrr cleared her throat, swiped tears from her cheeks, and stood tall from her chair. "When I return, I'll speak with him. About what, I'm not sure yet." She smiled wryly. "But I have a week to figure it out."

"You do," Matt said with a smile. "I'm sure you'll be fine, Tayla." He wasn't sure if it was a bad idea or not to use her given name, but he needed her to know that he was someone she could count on as a friend. "And, it's alright to be emotional here with me. Other than Ben, I imagine I'm the only other person here you might hopefully feel comfortable doing so with. I want to be a friend, if you'll let me. I want to be someone you can come to if you need to. I rely on you, and I want you to feel comfortable coming to me when you need it. I know we've had a rough past, but I think our future looks promising."

"It'll be hard thinking of you as anything other than my captain," she began, smiling, "but I can try." Clearing her throat, Lyrr looked down at her clasped hands. "Thank you, Matt. Thank you for not forcing me into anything, into...leaving T'Kal. That would've been the hardest choice to make. I'm not sure I could've obeyed you."

"It's not an order I could ever give," Matt said. "And, not just because it's not my place. I know you love each other very much, but I know there are a lot of underlying issues. We'll get through this."

"We'll?" she echoed, smiling curiously. "I'd...like that." Bowing her head, Lyrr stepped past him for the door. "I should be meeting my team now," she told him on her way, then turned at the door to regard him hopefully. "You'll watch Ben while I'm gone, won't you? Just to make sure everything's...fine?"

"I'll watch him," Matt said with a smile. "And, I don't think you have to worry too much about Tebrianne. I saw her dancing with Kate Hansen last night at the party, and they looked pretty close. It looks like she may be trying to move on already."

Lyrr smiled wanly. "I know she won't be a problem for Ben and I any longer, Matt. I just need to figure out what is." And sighing, she turned into the opening doorway and stepped out.

"Good luck, Tayla," Matt said softly once she was gone. "I imagine you'll need it."

---

"Setting Out"
By: Ensign Marp
PO Eric Corel [NPC]
Lieutenant j.g. Tchalla Mel'chir
Ensign Alexia Johnstone
Lieutenant Derran Casey [NPC+]
Commander Lyrr Tayla
Ensign VT Chan

Location: Shuttlebay, USS Sulu
Stardate 57911.01, 07h50

***

Marp clutched the PADD containing the mission details in his hand as he entered the shuttle bay. He had not expected to be involved in a science mission, however, Marp looked at it as an opportunity and there could be no profit if a Ferengi did not get opportunities.

Marp found the Gagarin and sat down in the pilots seat. He then scanned through the mission details and noted that there were some modifications to the shields. Marp activated the shuttle's flight console and checked the shuttle's status. He noted that the modifications were already started. "Funny," he thought, "I did not see anyone when I got here."

Marp got up and exited the shuttle. He looked around for the engineer doing the modifications.

A shadow fell over the small Ferengi, and attached to it was a chuckle. "Marp, you look lost." When Marp turned, PO Corel was scrutinizing a coil scanner in his hand as he fiddled with the settings. "You're in the right place, if that's what you're wondering," he muttered distractedly. "Everyone else is just late."

Marp grinned. "Actually, I was looking for you, wondering if you needed any help with those modifications."

Corel looked up from his tool, slightly puzzled for a moment, then smiled. "I could use the help. I really don't want to be around if the commander shows up and they're not done. I mean, she did stab the CSO, and they're practically married. Imagine what she'd do to our pathetic hides!"

Marp actually laughed. "You worry too much, Corel. If she really stabbed T'Kal don't you think she would be in the brig?" Marp laughed some more, "Where would you like me to start?"

Waving his companion to follow, Corel led Marp toward the rear of the shuttle. "We should probably tighten up those maneuverability thrusters, especially if you're flying," Corel joked, then snickered as they started up the ramp.

"You want to fly?" asked Marp with a smile as he followed the engineer.

Corel grinned. "Was that a threat, Marp, or an offer?"

Marp stopped at the top of the ramp and chuckled. "On second thought, you stick to fixing them. I'll fly."

With a mock-salute for his Ferengi comrade, Corel disappeared through the hatch with Marp close behind.

***

It seemed like she was just here, boarding onto another shuttle mission with a similar mission profile. The team was mostly different this time, with Commander Lyrr in charge. Tchalla Mel'Chir couldn't help a nervous swallow at the thought of working with the commander. She'd heard how hard she worked those under her command, how strict she was. She only hoped she could impress the commander enough that...that it would be a pleasant trip. Still, they'd be getting much closer to the nebula this time. It was very exciting.

She approached the shuttle, carry-all slung over one shoulder and a small stack of padds gripped in her free hand. She stopped outside the shuttle for a moment, just content with the chance to go out, forgetting all about the fears brought on by working directly with the ship's executive officer. And, with that, she stepped aboard.

Alexia Johnstone felt like she was getting to be an expert at these away missions; even though this was only her second away mission, she almost felt like part of the furniture. At least she knew where she was going to report in this time! She didn't really know many of the others that comprised the away team, apart from Vincent Chan, and she was looking forward to both working with him, and hopefully getting to know the others a little better.

As she approached the shuttle, Lexi glanced around, looking to see if anyone else had arrived yet. She hated to be late, and hoped she wouldn't be the last to arrive. With Commander Lyrr in charge, Lexi didn't want to upset her any more than was necessary. After the way she had spoken to the XO when Benedict T'Kal had been in sickbay, Lexi thought she might be treading on thin ice if she stepped out of line.

Just before she stepped on board, Lexi noticed a tall blonde man approaching the shuttle. She had seen him around, but didn't know a great deal other than his name. Derran Casey was an officer in security, and Lexi hadn't had much to do with him at all. She had heard others speaking of him, and had to admit that not all of what she had heard had been complimentary... in fact, most of what she had heard was rather uncomplimentary. Still, Lexi's nature was to give everyone a fair go, and, she had to admit to herself, he was rather good looking!

Lexi smiled and held out her hand to shake his as Casey approached. "Hi," she said. "I'm Lexi Johnstone. Looks like we're going to be shipmates for a while."

Derran had spotted the gorgeous nurse from all the way across the shuttle bay. He gave her the famous Casey charm as she looked his way and smiled. She was stunning, and he turned his bright blue eyes on her as he stepped up. When she held out her hand, he smiled and took it. His shake was firm and didn't linger, though he wanted it to. "A pleasure, Lexi," he said, his smile still radiating full force. His voice was a soft lilt that showed just how completely comfortable he was. His self-assurance and confidence was the same, whether in social situations or in the thick of combat. Derran Casey was a pro; it showed in everything he did. "Derran," he added. "We'll be cooped up for a while in close quarters, so as far as I'm concerned you don't need to bother with rank...though the XO might have other ideas." He grinned. His eyes held hers and he felt that connection he'd come to rely on. She was a woman; and he was perfection.

Lexi's smile faltered briefly... Casey certainly was 'Mr. Charm' personified... he was drop-dead gorgeous and knew it. "So, Derran." Lexi wasn't quite sure that she was comfortable using Casey's first name - it was said in a manner that was a little too overly familiar for a first time introduction as far as she was concerned, especially given his reputation. The way he had said his name had almost had a caress in it, and it made her skin feel slightly tingly... not necessarily in a good way! Lexi was a little perturbed at that; she wasn't used to the gorgeous people of the universe being so 'out there and in your face'!

A speculative look crossed fleetingly across her face. Her initial gut instinct was telling her in no uncertain terms that this man could be trouble, and Lexi's first thought was that he needed taking down a peg or two. Her second thought, of course, was that the away mission probably wasn't the place to do it, but, oh boy! was she going to have fun trying! So long as she didn't break any rules, she knew she would be okay. Two could play his game, and it would be one Lexi would enjoy - after all, she used to be an expert at playing games like this. Even though she was out of practice, she was sure it would come back in no time flat.

"Well, seeing as we'll be sharing such close quarters, I guess we'll have time to get to know each other a little better," she said. "I'm sure I'll enjoy getting to know you." Lexi smiled lasciviously at the handsome man, turning what had simply been a polite smile into a hundred watt smile designed to knock him slightly off balance as she said, "Shall I make sure we bunk next to each other?"

Derran's smile didn't waver. "I'll enjoy getting to know you too, Lexi," his voice a smooth caress; his brow raised at her invitation, and he chuckled, "I think I'd better watch out." He waved towards the shuttle door. "I get the feeling you're a dangerous woman." His tone told her that he didn't mind that at all. "Shall we?"

Lexi nodded as Casey pointed towards the door. As the two moved towards the shuttle door and prepared to board, Lexi knew that this away mission would be different from the last; regardless of what happened along the way, the journey was bound to be fun. "Oh?" she asked coquettishly. "What makes you think I'm dangerous?" Lexi couldn't remember the last time she had played with someone like this so soon after meeting them; for some reason, this man brought out the rapscallion side of her nature, and she was beginning to enjoy herself immensely.

"It's the look in those beautiful blue eyes of yours," he said with a grin. "It screams danger. I think I'm going to enjoy this shuttle mission after all. And I just thought it would be a baby-sitting assignment from Commander T'Kal." He stepped inside right behind her and just had to admire her figure. "I brought a few good books with me," he added. "It'll help pass the time." He grinned once more and headed into the converted cargo section where the eight bunks lined the walls in fold-down mode. He slung his carry-on in an overhead rack on one side; his muscular frame moving gracefully beneath the perfectly tailored uniform.

As Casey lifted his bag into the overhead rack, Lexi watched his muscles flexing. She had to admit, this man was stacked! If this was to be the standard of the scenery, it was going to be an interesting week. She chuckled on the inside at the thought of the Great Casey with a pile of books.... that was not how she had pictured this man passing his time! "What sort of books have you brought? Anything I might be interested in?" she asked.

"Starfleet Tactical Operations Manual," he grinned as he turned to her. "The Romulan Question; a treatise on the main influences on the Romulan Empire in the last hundred years...that's one of the required texts for diplomatic attachés to the Star Empire. And for kicks, I have a copy of Admiral James T. Kirk's mission logs from the Enterprise." He grinned. "I'll lend you one... if you want," he challenged.

Lexi smiled back at him, and said, "I've read Kirk's mission logs... they were great! I actually own a set, but forgot to pack them. I'd love to read them again.... but only if it's not going to put you out. Thanks." As she turned and talked over her shoulder in an unmistakable gesture of dismissal, she said, "It must nearly be time for departure. If you don't mind, I'd like to say 'hi' to the rest of the crew before we leave."

Casey grinned as he followed her, not fazed by her playful behaviour. She was definitely throwing him the signals. She wanted him, and he knew that it was only a matter of time before she begged. He winked at her as she sidled into the forward section between the seats.

As the shuttle's crew mingled, Commander Lyrr strode onto the bridge unnoticed. She noted that most of her team had arrived punctually, save for Ensign Chan, who would require this mission to redeem himself in the command staff's eyes. Overall, the captain had selected well - Marp was an able pilot, and Mel'chir a competent science officer; she questioned how appropriate, however, Lieutenant Casey's presence was. Lyrr herself had heard of the man's womanizing ways, which was in evidence even now as he charmed Ensign Johnstone with his dashing smile and admired her from an inappropriately intimate distance. If he wished to convince Lyrr of his worth as a security officer, he had a long way to go. In the end, though, the mission's success would be Lyrr's responsibility, and she despised failure.

Hitching the shoulderstrap of her duffel higher, Lyrr cleared her throat. The shuttle's chatter quelled and all eyes shifted to find her. She tipped her head at the crew. "I trust you're all prepared for departure?"

"Science is ready, Commander," Tchalla said from the sensor station. One antenna dropped nervously as she glanced up at the Sulu's first officer. "All systems read within nominal levels, and show readiness for nebular scans."

Lyrr nodded in acknowledgement while turning her gaze to the flight control station. PO Corel hurriedly took his leave of Marp to seek out his own station. He tipped his head at the commander as he passed. She allowed him a brief smile. "Ensign Marp, how did the engine modifications go?"

Marp looked up form his pre-flight checks. "They went without a problem, sir," he replied.

"Good," Lyrr answered curtly, then fixed her gaze on Lieutenant Casey, escorting Ensign Johnstone to her own seat. "Lieutenant," she called, "if you could spare a moment and glance at your tactical display, you might be able to inform me of shield status."

"Shields are down, sir," he grinned. "I took the opportunity to read the maintenance logs on the shuttle for the last three months. Everything should be fine." He sat at the tactical display, one glance and he nodded. "No problems here, Commander." For a moment, he turned his charming smile on Lyrr. She frowned and turned away.

Running his fingers through his hair with one hand and rubbing the sleep out of his eyes with the other, Vincent staggered into the shuttle. Such was the manner of his entry, it merely looked like he had stumbled in on something instead of actually having a purpose there. His purpose there was unclear even to himself. Tucking his shirt in he mumbled a hurried greeting/apology to those present. Again he had been having one of those drinking duels with the Irish CMO. The lieutenant simply did not understand - there was no way he was going to outdrink this Aussie. Vincent had won yet another handful of replicator chips from the old man.

Having woken up with a hangover, Vincent had barely remembered about this shuttle mission. Now he stood there, late, tired, and looking around with his bloodshot eyes. The looks he was receiving were understandable. He decided to allow the reprimand to come first which would allow him time to think of an acceptable excuse.

"Ensign." The commander's gaze was severe and her lips were pressed thin. Although she never really looked pleased in any situation, she was clearly unamused. "You're late," she told him flatly and moved in closer. Her eyes peered into his with scrutiny. "Long night, Ensign?"

Hoping he did not look too ragged, Vincent merely gave a guttural mumble, which he hoped would be sufficient. Sensing that it would not be enough for his commander, he decided to elaborate to the best of his ability. "Er, yes, sir. Relatively long..."

She nodded her head slowly. "Are you capable of proceeding with this mission? If not, I'm sure Ensign Rax or another science officer would gladly take your place."

Trying to suppress a hacking cough and the burning instinct to rub his head and relieve his headache, Vincent tried to formulate a coherent response. His hangover did not help. He was fine - for now - but how to express that when his tongue was not as glib as it usually was? He decided to keep his response short. "I'm fine, sir," hoping that was enough. He desperately wanted to be left alone. He noticed Lexi standing in the group, and tried to give an acknowledging smile. If this headache did not let up, he would need her soon enough. Rolling her eyes irritably, Lyrr turned her back to the Ensign and hoped he could stagger his way safely to a seat.

With her motley crew in attendance, Lyrr sighed and moved to the shuttle's rear to stow her duffel. "Marp, raise the ramp and let control know we're ready and waiting for clearance."

"Aye, sir," said Marp. He retracted the ramp and put the shuttle's atmospheric thrusters on stand-by.

"Flight Control, shuttle Gagarin requesting clearance to depart," said Marp.

Lyrr strode past the five seated officers flanking her on either side on her path to the piloting stations. She had yet to work closely with any of them, though had gotten to know Ensign Johnstone more than most other officers. She was looking forward to this expedition, if only for the opportunity to get acquainted with the rest. It was a commander's duty, after all.

"Commander, we are clear to leave the shuttle bay. The Castari have also been notified of our departure," said Marp.

She slid into the vacant co-pilot's seat and activated her console. "Is everyone ready?" she called back to her team.

"Science is ready, Commander," Tchalla said, then glanced aside at Chan to make sure he was actually ready. "We're in standby mode until launch."

Casey looked at Chan with a barely concealed sneer. The man was a disgrace! Turning up to an away mission looking like he'd barely gotten through a sotted night. Well, he thought, a reflection of the senior officer in Science: unprofessional. Chan went into Casey's do not trust under any circumstances list.

After receiving word from the rest of her team, Lyrr smiled at her Ferengi co-pilot and gave the go-ahead with a single nod. "Take us out, Ensign."

Marp nodded and engaged the shuttle's thrusters. The Gagarin lifted off the deck and floated out of the shuttle bay into the bright Castari morning. Marp circled the Sulu before he brought the shuttle's thrusters to full power and began his assent.

Marp could not help but notice the natural beauty of the planet as he watched the planet surface slowly disappear. After a few moments the Gagarin broke free of the planet's atmosphere. Marp entered the coordinates of the nebula into his navigational computer. "Course for nebula S574-G laid in, Commander."

Lyrr remained silent for a moment as her thoughts returned to the Sulu. She hoped Ben would fare well enough without her for a while, but this was an opportunity not to be passed up. With a tip of her head at Marp, she said, "Let's go see what all this fuss is about, Ensign. Engage." And soon enough, Castari Alpha was but a speck in the distance.

---

"Bright-Eyed"
by Xayella Tagliesh
Matthew Salinger
Faelen Metah
Raj Daheel
and Der-Raj Monil

Location: Castari Prime
Stardate 57911.01, 09h00

***

A cheerful, brisk knock resounded in the spacious room, tugging at their consciousness. Squinting against the sunlight falling across her face from the overhead window, Xayella groaned and burrowed her head under Matt's arm. The knocking continued. "Stupid birds," she mumbled sleepily.

Matt opened his eyes, blinked and looked between the window and the door. "Was that birds, or was it...Metah? Please let it be birds."

Xay's bare leg slipped out from beneath the bedsheet to drape across Matt's waist and keep him from rising. "If we don't make a sound," she sighed, "maybe he'll go away."

"An hour or two," Matt whispered as another round of knocking echoed through the room. "All he needs is to give us another hour or two."

Then, it stopped, and both sighed. "It's about time they got the hint," Xay muttered, and was already succumbing to sleep again when they were dealt a sudden shock.

"Captain Matt!" a jovial voice hollered. Xay yelped and bolted upright in bed. Faelen Metah was standing before them, beaming a smile and appearing completely oblivious to his intrusiveness. Xayella scrambled to gather the sheets over her nude form.

Matt scrambled to save some of the sheet for himself. "Metah," he said quickly. "Faelen Metah. I hadn't expected you here so early...inside of my private housing here. Is there an emergency?"

"There'd better damn well be," Xay grumbled under her breath.

"Forgive me, Captain." Metah bowed humbly, but his eyes remained upturned to the two officers still attempting to arrange the sheets for greater coverage. "No one was answering, so I assumed you required my aid."

Matt raised an eyebrow. "What made you think that we might require your aid, just because we hadn't answered the door? That was some party last night and the bed is very comfortable."

Metah covered his mouth daintily as he giggled. His eyes took in Xayella while answering significantly, "Oh, I'm sure it is, Captain."

Xayella glowered at the man and tugged at the sheet to conceal her exposed knee. Though, to her amusement, she soon realized Metah was paying just as much attention to Matt as he was herself. Xay stifled a chuckle.

"Faelen Metah," Matt finally said. "Why are you standing in our bedroom? Why are you here?"

He gasped at his own absentmindedness, then bowed deeply in apology. "I was sent here by the most esteemed Rajs. They were interested in speaking with you again."

"Of course," Matt said with a nod, though silently hoping that Metah hadn't brought the Rajs along and they weren't waiting on the porch to barge in. "Do you believe they'd mind if I dressed before going to speak with them?"

Metah chortled. "Oh, not at all, Captain!" And for a moment, both Xay and Matt worried he intended to watch them do so, for he held his place. "Well!" He slapped his hands together, startling the two. "I'll be waiting outside to escort you." Again he executed a deep bow, then scurried away.

Xayella exhaled a gust of air. "I thought he was going to next ask if he could help me into my shirt," she quipped.

Matt chuckled. "That's funny, I thought he was going to ask me if he could help me into my shorts." He looked at her and grinned, then gave her a gentle and loving kiss that said more than any words ever could. "Come on, let's get dressed, see what they want, then we'll go find some breakfast."

Xayella scanned the room quickly to ensure the stocky Faelen was no longer peeping, then hopped out of bed. "This planet has some strange customs regarding privacy," she commented with a shake of her head. Crossing the room, she slipped into the refresher and turned on the water jets. "Do we know very much about these people?" she called back into the room above the torrent.

"Not yet," Matt said as he slipped out of the bed and checked to see if any messages had come in during the night from the ship. "Though, that's hopefully what our extended time spent here will do. Hopefully we can teach them a few things too, like not answering the door doesn't indicate an emergency."

"And I thought we'd locked it, too." She chuckled. "So, is breaking and entering legal here, too?"

"While I didn't get out of bed to check, my guess would be he had a key," Matt said. "We can put a chair in front of the door tomorrow." He slipped into the refresher to join Xay in the shower.

"I should get back to the ship, though," Xayella mused. She dispensed a large dollop of soap from the wall-mounted dispenser then worked it up into a lather. "I want to keep track of the shuttle's progress. I'm really having second thoughts about not going."

"You're stuck with me now," Matt said. "But, I understand. I'm sure they'll be fine though. You're not going to hog all that soap, are you?"

She grinned and smoothed her foamy hands over his chest. "Better? Just make sure I don't miss any spots." Xayella's green eyes glanced downwards suggestively.

"Oh, you don't have to worry there," Matt said. "I'll make sure we're both squeaky clean." He quickly looked around, then at Xay's puzzled expression, he added, "I just wanted to make sure there wasn't a window for Metah to check in on us."

Laughing softly, Xayella embraced Matt. The movements of their bodies would spread the soap around as they kissed, and had Metah waiting happily outside.

***

"I'm very sorry for the delay, Faelen Metah," Matt said again as they crossed toward the government building where the Rajs waited for them. "Sometimes, where I'm from, getting ready in the morning can take a considerable amount of time."

"Especially with such a delightful woman." Metah tittered giddily. "You two are mates, then, Captain?"

Matt laughed. "Not precisely," he said. "Where we come from, the term is called married, but we haven't done that yet. We enjoy each other's company and love each other very much. But, because of our mission, we haven't taken that step yet."

"I see, I see..." Metah nodded pensively, then offered Matt a cheerful smile. "Well, I wish you good luck, then. It is unfortunate she could not attend the meeting. The Rajs would have been so intrigued to meet such a beauty."

"She had to check in with a science mission we launched earlier today," Matt said. "Since our arrival here, she's been fascinated with the nearby nebula. It has many features similar to a phenomenon back in the Alpha Quadrant. It was a perfect opportunity to explore and learn as much as we could. Perhaps another time, though, she'll be able to join in on one of these meetings."

He giggled with delight. "Oh, that would be a pleasure, Captain. Though...is our planet not interesting enough that your science department must busy themselves with studying nebulae?"

"They find excitement in the unknown and unexplored," Matt said. "Certainly your planet offers that, but they enjoyed last night's party before rushing out. And, I'm sure they'll be back in time to see more."

"Splendid!" Bouncing up the steps of Castari's parliamentary building, Metah paused every few moments to urge Matt along. "Did your evening wear you out, Captain?" he asked playfully, then twittered with glee.

"In a manner of speaking," Matt said with a laugh as he followed up the steps thinking of Xayella. "Yeah, it was a pretty eventful night."

Giggling for the entire climb, Metah was now sluggish enough that Matt could walk alongside the man. "Now, do not be surprised if you are invited to a dinner this evening," Metah whispered to him as they walked the lengthy hall. "You are our guest of honour, Captain."

"Thank you," Matt said as they drew closer to the large doors at the end of the hall. "Will I be permitted to bring a companion to the dinner?"

"And who might that be, Captain?" Metah bayed with laughter. "Of course, of course! I would be delighted to see the lovely Ms. Tagliesh again."

Matt couldn't stop the stray thought that slipped through, the one that said, How much more of her were you expecting to see, Mr. Peeping Metah? But quickly pushed his mind away from that before he was giggling right along with the man. "Well, first we have to see if the Rajs wish to have me stay for dinner."

"They most definitely will, Captain," Metah assured him. He stood aside from Matt once at the doors, and Metah bowed reverently as he pushed one open. "Raj Daheel and Der-Raj Monil, may I present to you Captain Matthew Salinger." Metah glanced up at Matt and dimpled.

The planet's two leaders were seated at the conference table, and both looked up from the very animated conversation they'd been engaged in before Metah and Matt's arrival. The men did not appear entirely cheerful, whatever they had been discussing apparently a contentious subject. But, within moments they had again assumed their poised, regal countenances and bowed their heads at Matt. "Captain," Raj Daheel greeted.

"It is so very good to see you again," Der-Raj Monil echoed, though the look in his eyes and the set of jaw indicated otherwise. "Please, sit and we may begin." He glanced once more at Raj Daheel and gave a look that indicated their discussion would continue again later.

"Thank you," Matt said as he took the offered seat.

As Metah shuffled towards a seat, Raj Daheel summoned him forward. The corpulent man approached and leaned over as Raj bid him to do so. Daheel's words were lost in Metah's ear, and the whispered message quickly deflated the administrator's normally jovial expression. He nodded humbly to his leader, then mumbled an excuse to Matt before he departed. The Raj remained straight-faced, giving no sign of the matter he had spoken to Metah of. Instead, he raised a glass filled with a certain violet liquid and partook of more than a sip. He sighed. "So, Captain Salinger...how have you been enjoying your stay?"

"So far, I'm enjoying it very much," Matt answered. "Your people are most generous and gracious and are so very kind to us. And, yourselves, of course. The party last night was thoroughly enjoyable. I know of not one single person among my crew who did not have a wonderful time. I don't know if we will ever be able to repay you for the hospitality you've shown us."

"And...your people did behave themselves?" Raj Daheel asked, and although his tone was innocent enough, the nature of his question was inherently accusatory.

"As far as I know, they behaved," Matt said. "I didn't witness all of their behaviour, but I've heard of nothing harmful. Considering the generousity of your people, I wouldn't be surprised if some among my crew didn't end up pairing off with them. Some of those dances were...very enticing."

The Raj nodded gravely. "That is what we are wary of, Captain. It wouldn't be...appropriate for your people and mine mingle. Do you understand?"

Matt nodded. "Yes, I understand," he said. "I'll pass word amongst my crew that such liaisons are off limits from now on."

"Do not misinterpret my words, Captain," the Raj added. "They may interact with our people, but...intimacy would not be wise."

"Of course," Matt said. "And, I'll make sure that's what they understand."

The Raj bowed his head, satisfied with Matt's assurances.

"I wish it were possible for us to elaborate on the issue, Captain Salinger," the Der-Raj explained. "But, I hope you will understand that it is an internal matter that we wish to keep internal. That is all I can really say."

Matt nodded again. "I understand completely," he said. "The Federation has several issues they feel similarly on. We will respect your wishes."

"Then we shall speak again during dinner." It was polite dismissal, but the Rajs were the first to stand and depart, their procession of two guards following behind. Matt was left alone in the room to make his own way out.

Matt could only sit and wonder what exactly had happened. As he stood and tried retracing his steps, he played back the events of the previous night in his mind, trying to figure out what might have happened, especially since the Castari had said nothing about fraternizing in the meeting earlier in the day. Finally, he decided all he could do was shrug it off and pass the word. As human as they looked, he couldn't deny that their minds were still alien to him.

---

"Talk Over Rations"
By: Ensign Marp
Commander Lyrr Tayla

Location: Shuttle "Gagarin"
Stardate: 57911.01, 09h00

***

With a standard camp ration in hand, Lyrr Tayla returned to her seat beside the piloting Ferengi. He seemed not to have taken his eyes from his controls or the viewscreen since they'd departed from the Sulu. That was one hour ago. She smiled at his dedication and peeled open the metallic wrap of her dehydrated ratamba stew. "Would you care for a bite?" she offered the Ferengi.

The Ferengi glanced away from his controls; he had been in the zone and the commander's voice startled him a little bit. "Thank you, sir," he said.

Lyrr pulled the bar from its wrapping and snapped it in half. She handed one portion to Marp, then bit into her own. It was difficult to even pretend enjoyment. "Well...we may not have appetizing food for a while, but we conserve many more resources that are only wasted by replicators," Lyrr mused. "And it'll be good for all of us to live without for a time. Helps to hone our survival skills." She smiled tautly at the Ferengi, realizing quickly enough how horrible she was at conversation. A change of topic was required desperately. "So...are you enjoying flying, Ensign?"

"Yes sir," said Marp, taking a bite of rations. Marp had never understood why people did not like these things, he found them very tasty. "I've been doing a lot of flying since we returned through the gate," he said. "I'm not complaining though, it has been good experience for me." Marp looked at Lyrr. "Are you looking forward to this mission?" he asked her.

She sighed as she studied the dehydrated snack bar. "I believe I am, Ensign. It's...good to get away once in a while. Don't you agree?"

Marp nodded as he finished his snack bar. "Yes, it is, although, I am not quite sure I understand what has gotten the science department so excited about this nebula." Marp shrugged, "For me it is a good excuse to fly, I guess."

Lyrr chuckled. "You seem uncertain. Would you have preferred to stay behind and attend shore leave?"

It was Marp's turn to chuckle. "No, sir, I am right where I want to be, Commander."

"I'm glad," she responded soberly. "As fun as shoreleave might seem, you can't forget that you have a career to consider." Lyrr looked down, smiling wryly to herself. "Even Executive Officers tend to get caught up in their personal lives and neglect their duty at times. Just remember, Ensign, that your private life can wait; your career won't."

"Ah, yes, Commander," said Marp. He truly wondered how this conversation had taken this turn. Marp had a very small personal life, and up until the Sulu had landed that had pretty much been extinguished. Marp wondered if the commander was talking more to herself than him as he scanned the controls to make sure they were still on course. "You do not have to worry about my priorities, all I really have is my career."

"I thought that way, too, at one time, Ensign," Lyrr admitted. "But things may change more quickly than any of us are prepared for. That's why it's important you maintain your priorities and never compromise."

"I am afraid that I cannot afford to compromise," said Marp, "I have already been laughed out of Ferengi society. If I lose my career I will have nothing left."

"Your family doesn't approve," Lyrr surmised. "But...you can't live for them, now can you? Profit isn't for you." She shrugged. "Just as raising a family isn't for me." Lyrr chuckled at his cocked eyebrow. "My mother...." she explained.

"Your mother does not approve of your career choice?" Marp asked.

"My mother would prefer if I were on Bajor, preferably with a husband," Lyrr responded with surprising candor. "I think she's just uncomfortable not knowing where I am at any one time and what I'm doing, if I'm well or even alive..." She rolled her eyes. "Typical matriarch."

"Sounds like she is just worried about you," Marp observed.

"And I imagine it's the same with your own mother." Lyrr sighed deeply as she leaned back in her chair, crossing both arms over her chest. "It seems the farther away we travel from those we love, the more we think about them. How very inconvenient," she joked.

"Very inconvenient," Marp laughed.

Lyrr chuckled along with the Ferengi, basking in the moment of levity; such had been lacking over the past month. "Well," she sighed, "I'm going to get another ration. Would you like one, Ensign?"

"I would love another one, they are very tasty," said Marp.

"They are?" Lyrr asked in disbelief. "Well, I suppose if one holds their breath...." And smiling, she rose and moved off towards the ration compartment, surprised to find herself eager to resume her conversation with the young Ferengi.

Marp smiled as Lyrr left. He could not understand why Corel was so worried about her, but then again, Marp was not on her bad side either. Marp decided he would try to stay on her good side.

---

"Arm Twisting and Advice"
By: Lieutenant j.g. Natalia Druschev
Lieutenant Xayella Tagliesh

Location: Science Lab 1, USS Sulu
Stardate 57911.01, 11h25

***

"Lieutenant Druschev, what are you still doing here?" The voice was unmistakable, as was the acerbic tone to it. Only one person aboard greeted another with complete condescension, but as Natalia swivelled to regard the approaching Science Chief, her amiable smile struck a sense of discord with her initial verbal greeting. She stopped before Natalia's chair, glanced at her display screen, then back inquisitively. "Why aren't you on shoreleave? Everyone else is."

"I've had enough shore leave to last me a while." The Russian accented Druschev gave Xayella a wry smile. "My memories of the last time on a pleasure planet serve as enough reason to stay off one. But really...I have work that I would rather be doing." She waved at the LCARS; the screen was a segmented display from the initial shuttle mission to get data on the Badlands style nebula. "This is fascinating," her smile turned more enthusiastic. "I am jealous of being left behind...but Domenic...well." She looked up at Tagliesh. "What are you still doing here? I would have thought that you would be by the captain's side."

Xayella sighed and sank into the chair next to Natalia's. "I wanted to spend some time with Matt...although the urge to attend the mission was very strong. And as for you, I didn't think you'd want to take the risks associated with such a mission. The nebula's unstable; in your condition, I didn't believe it wise to put you into such danger."

Natalia smiled at Xayella and reached out a hand to grip the Chief of Science's for a moment. "Thank you, you are of course right." She shrugged and sighed. "I am still coming to terms with my condition," she added with a rueful smile. "You make me feel jealous. You have a handsome man." She sighed theatrically and then grinned. "He's a good dancer...." Natalia mused, "such strong shoulders...very nice... You are a lucky girl."

Xay cast a questioning look at Natalia's hand, wondering what had possessed the woman to initiate contact. It was...unusual. She only wondered what Natalia intended to touch next..... "I...suppose I am lucky," Xayella replied slowly. "I don't know if there would've been anyone else if I hadn't met him...but I'm content with Matt." She chuckled. "Now he's started talking about marriage. Why do men do that?"

Natalia laughed softly, and nodded. "They cannot help it," she confided. "When they are snared by a beautiful woman...they want to keep her!" She grinned at Xayella. "Do you love him?" she asked.

"I do," she responded warily. The personal interrogation was rousing Xayella's suspicions. One only asked such intimate questions when they required leverage. Xayella couldn't think of any reason Natalia was interested in that. Narrowing her eyes probingly, Xayella countered, "Did you love your husband when you were together? Do you love him now?"

"I was never married," Natalia admitted. "I've never had a relationship with a man I wanted to marry." She smiled a little sadly. "You are very lucky to have a man who loves you enough to want to marry you. If you love him back, then you should marry him...or he might start looking elsewhere. Da?"

Xayella snorted. "Like hell he will. We've got an uncomplicated relationship right now. For a starship captain, that's a necessity. Where else would he find that?" Setting her arrogance aside, Xayella displayed a rare moment of sincerity as she asked, "So...one night stand, was it? Or what?" She smiled and gestured to the child growing in her womb. "I meant your son."

"I know what you meant," Natalia replied, slightly irritated. "No it was not one night. I loved him...and he left me because he wanted an uncomplicated relationship...he never knew about Domenic..." She looked into Xayella's eyes for a moment. "If you have a man who wants to marry you...then it's already complicated. If you turn him away, he will find it with someone else, Xayella. Believe me." Natalia's eyes misted over with tears.

"Matt will not run off to find someone else," Xayella riposted testily. "What's marriage anyway? It's just a way for insecure people to maintain a hold on someone they desire to possess." Noting Natalia's grief, Xayella relented her attack with a sigh and smiled wanly at the woman. "Look, if he didn't stick around because you two didn't want the same things, then doesn't that mean you're better off without him now?" Shooting the lieutenant a wink, Xay confided, "At least it allows you to flirt with handsome available - or unavailable - men."

"Xayella...." Natalia shook her head sadly. "If he wants to marry you do you think he'll settle for less? No man ever does, dear. He'll only come to believe that you don't really love him, and he'll start to see your flaws then...you don't want him to do that. Marriage is about a commitment not about possession."

"Flaws?" she echoed in amusement. "I'd really like to know what those are, Lieutenant, because I can't think of a single thing." Her conceit was hardly disguised, as she made no attempt to do so judging from her smirk. "Don't you worry about my relationship, Lieutenant. Just worry about your lack thereof. Which is why" --she rose and crooked her finger at Natalia to follow-- "you're off duty as of now."

"I don't want to be off duty. I'm quite happy doing this. The last man I met on shore leave wasn't a happy memory. I wish to stay here and work. I am enjoying what I am doing...so get yourself to the party and leave me alone." Natalia smiled as she waved Xayella away. "Go."

"Matt's meeting with some planetary officials," Xay said. "You sure I'm the type of woman to be trusted, all alone on a foreign planet?" She smiled mischievously.

"You want a chaperone?" Natalia's brow went up as she laughed softly. "You want me to keep you out of trouble? Don't think I can't find my own trouble, Xayella. I attract it...you'll only be in for more trouble."

She chuckled lowly. "That is the point, Druschev. Now" --Xay planted both hands on her hips-- "are you coming or aren't you? There's a whole planet of young, vibrant men with foreign accents," she sang.

"Oh please...." Natalia screwed up her face. She looked wistfully at the LCARS and the nebula data and then back at Xayella. This was the first time that the Science Chief had made any kind of personal request of her, and she couldn't really snub her. If she did, she'd be put on her shit list for sure. "Okay...I have to change first though...and if we get into trouble it won't be my fault!"

"Prude," Xayella teased. "If we get into trouble, Matt will bail us out. Though, trouble is always more fun." Tossing back her hair, she turned from Natalia and started away. "I'll need to dress, too. Meet me at the ramp in twenty, Lieutenant!" She stopped in the doorway for a moment and grinned at her crewmate. "I hope you're ready for fun, Druschev; I won't let you leave that planet until you experience it." And she left her with a wink.

Natalia felt vaguely troubled by that. She had to be careful, she was pregnant; but still not showing it. It could possibly be her last chance to have any real fun. "Oh well," she said to herself in Russian as she shut down her terminal. "What can happen?" She set off to change; twenty minutes wasn't long enough by far, but she'd have to hurry!

---

"Kiss and Make-Up"
By: Ensign Dwayne Sanchez
Ensign Amy Reese

Location: Dwayne and Amy's Quarters, USS Sulu
Stardate 57911.01, 12h15

***

Dwayne was in the refresher getting a shower. He'd just returned from sleeping with Kelli and had to get showered for the day. He'd turned the water on and was just getting ready to duck his head under so he could wash his hair. He pulled some soap out for his hair and scrubbed it then ducked his head back under.

After finishing with his body, he'd stood in the spray letting it pound him for a few moments, and relax and think. Thinking about what his life had become since he'd taken up with Kelli and Tchi. He'd loved Amy, as much as a first love could be, as strong as it could be, but she'd handed his heart to him with a maybe later and that just wasn't good enough for him.

"You've been avoiding me," a very recognizable voice sang from outside the fogged shower door. The body's silhouette was decidedly female, and its stance bespoke of the intruder's ill-temper. Before he could clear a patch of foggy glass with one hand to spy the woman, the shower door was abruptly pushed aside. A frowning Amy Reese stood there, glaring, one foot tapping briskly. "Mind telling me why?"

Well, think of the devil, Dwayne thought. "I'm not avoiding you." Just because I've been sleeping with Kelli and Tchi, don't mean I've been avoiding you. He continued to think, "Why do you think I've been avoiding you?"

Amy's eyes narrowed to slits at his evasion. "So you haven't been? Or are you lying to me again!"

"When have I ever lied to you?" He slid under the spray again.

Gaping at his temerity, Amy shoved Dwayne by his shoulder, only jarring him slightly. "You jerk! Even now you're lying to me!"

Dwayne nearly lost his balance but the slick shower wall kept him up. "What are you talking about? Amy, come down off that pedestal you have yourself on and tell me what the hell you're talking about."

"My pedestal?" she shrieked and, oblivious to the water still raining down from the nozzle, Amy imposed herself into the shower, standing nose to chin with Dwayne. "You said you loved me," she rasped. "Then an hour later, you're sleeping with my best friends! Did you tell me that just to get me into bed, you...you playboy!"

"Cold showers weren't going to hold me forever, Amy. You said you needed time so I was more than willing to give you that time." He reached out to grasp her by the shoulders. "You want me to move on, I'm moving on."

Amy threw up her forearms, breaking his hold on her and sending water flying. "Don't give me that bull, Dwayne! If you wanted me to spread my legs, there were better ways of doing it than playing with my feelings like that. Are you that heartless!?"

"I wasn't playing with your feelings. Amy I do love you, I'm wondering if it wasn't you playing with my feelings. Did you really expect me to wait for you?" He again grabbed her by the shoulders and to prove it, although in anger, how much he cared for her, he kissed her, hard.

Slipping on the wet tiles as she was jerked forward, Amy stumbled into Dwayne. She mumbled a protest, which was easily lost within Dwayne's mouth as he covered her own, and all attempts to break his hold once again were impossible with their proximity. Amy couldn't wedge her arms up between his, nor could she push herself away, for her hands merely slid away from the slick flesh of his chest. "Dwayne!" she screamed from her throat and, in a panic, drove the heel of her shoe into his foot.

Dwayne yelled when she did that, and that got her the result she wanted: he let her go. The move was so abrupt that she nearly stumbled. "Damnit, Amy."

"Damnit, Dwayne!" she echoed and tripped her way out of the shower once again. Her hair was dripping wet and her clothes clung to her body, which made her heaving chest all the more visible. "What the hell were you doing!" she yelled at him. "First you try to sway me with words, then you resort to force to get me into bed? You're sick!"

"I thought you liked your men with confidence." It was then he cupped his hands over his groin. Whether it was intentional or just a reflex was anyone's guess.

Amy gasped, and although she was hardly naive towards such things, she still blushed. "What's happened to you, Dwayne?" she whispered. "Why are you being like this? Because I'm trying to get my life together before jumping into another relationship with someone? Why are you so bitter!"

Dwayne turned to shut the water off, then he stepped out and pulled a towel from the rack and wrapped it around himself. "If you don't know enough about me to know that then..." He cut off then and headed for the door.

"I know why," Amy insisted jeeringly as she rushed out after him. "It's because you're a brat. It's because you didn't get your way." She sighed from behind him, her anger only slightly dampened. "Why couldn't we just be friends like we used to? Why do you want things to change?"

"I don't want it to change, but being what I am just doesn't seem to work with you." He held his hand up. "I know you wanted to get your shit together, but I can't wait that long," came his reply.

Amy's face contorted into a mask of incredulity. "What?" she blurted out, then screeched in frustration and shouldered past Dwayne for the door. "You creep! It's a wonder you don't like Ensign Collins a lot more than you do. You're both snakes!"

A smirk crossed Dwayne's face at her words, although she couldn't see it. "I think it's you she likes best, didn't you see the way she looked at you?"

Whirling on him as she stood in the open doorway, Amy spat, "I'd rather her eyes upon me over yours any day!"

Dwayne just shrugged. "Have it your way. How about I give her a call and let her know?"

"How about you never talk to me again!" Amy fumed, then whirled into the corridor, the door whisking closed behind her.

Dwayne watched her leave the room, and then he heard his grandfather's voice in his head. What do you think you're doing, mijo? Go after her. She is your friend if nothing else to you. Dwayne had to admit the voice had a point.

Unmindful of the tiny towel he had wrapped around his hips, he headed out the door after her. "Amy...wait."

She spun around, prepared to shoot off another series of insults, but it was the sight of Dwayne wearing hardly a thing, and two passing female officers giggling that gave her pause. They were staring at his groin as they went by, certain parts of his anatomy nearly visible beneath the dampened, white cloth. Amy gasped and ran forward, grasping his hand as she went and swinging him around with her. The towel fluttered away behind him as it came loose, and by the time Amy had dragged him into their quarters, both young women had gotten a glimpse of his bare backside.

Once inside, Amy released him and burst into breathless laughter. "Are you crazy!? What were you doing!"

"I was going to apologize." That lost little boy look showed in his eyes. "I'm sorry, Amy. I...I don't get angry like that very often and you just knew what buttons to push, that's all."

Her smile soured. "I pushed buttons? You were the one who started acting like a snob, Dwayne. I just...I don't understand what this is all about." Amy sighed. "Is it...is it because I won't sleep with you?"

"I could do without the sex, Amy, if I thought you'd be there for me. And I hadn't planned on sleeping with Kelli and Tchi. I really hadn't planned on spending the last couple of nights with them either. We'd gone to the auditorium, I sat down to the keyboard to play and sing a little, and they're the ones who brought it up. Tchi--" No, he wasn't going to tell her that one...that one had caught him off guard. He sat himself down on the sofa, naked, and started to fidget with his hands.

"I don't really know what I'd wanted, and I should be happy with what I have. You're someone who likes change and change is always good no matter what, that's what I like about you. Kelli's warm, and she brings with her the memories of several others with her to liven things up. Tchi, she's got an innocence that I can't explain it, but it's there. It's just too bad that I can't have all those qualities in one woman. Then I wouldn't have to search through myself and everything and everyone around me to figure this out."

He loved Amy, he loved Kelli, and he loved Tchi. Amy's spontaneous spirit, Kelli's warmth and Tchi's innocence was what anyone could possibly want in anyone they loved. He sighed, held his hands together in front of himself and felt like crying.

At his crestfallen demeanour, Amy sighed and approached Dwayne. "So...until you find this perfect woman, you're running around blindly, just sleeping with whoever comes along?" She sat down beside him and laid her hand upon his. "Do you really like them, Dwayne?"

"There's no way I'll find a woman like that. And if I was going to sleep with just anyone who came along I wouldn't have shoved Collins away, now would I?" he scoffed a little at that thought. "I do like them, and on some level I love them." He moved one hand to sandwich hers between his. "Just like I love you, which is why it's so hard." He meant his life, not a part of his anatomy.

"Well...you could've told me, you know," she told him softly. "Instead of hiding from me."

"I just did, didn't I?" He smiled sadly. "I don't plan on leaving them high and dry though. I can't do that to them. I won't."

"I'm not asking you to." Amy chuckled softly and rested her chin upon his shoulder as she watched him. "I'm just saying...that'd it'd be nice if you could confide in me...like friends are supposed to."

He smiled. "You mean like girlfriends? I'm hardly equipped for that kind of thing."

She snickered and playfully poked him in the ribs. "Just as friends, silly! I mean, if we can't be lovers, then isn't that best?"

Dwayne chuckled when she poked him. He reached to take her hand and tickle her. "Okay, that's what I would rather be, friends. I don't want to lose you as a friend." He stopped tickling.

Still laughing lightly, Amy wrapped her arms around his waist and nestled her head into his chest. "Don't ever be so cruel to me again," she half-teased.

"If I am, you have my permission to slug me, okay?" He wasn't teasing, he was dead serious.

"Deal," she whispered. Content to remain in his embrace for a time, Amy finally sat up and lightly slapped his thigh. "Let's go. The planet awaits!"

Dwayne chuckled again. "I think I need some clothes first." He glanced down at his naked body and grinned. "Unless you think I can get away with going like this."

Amy grinned. "Well I know those girls outside wouldn't mind...but you'd probably get thrown in the brig." She rose and tossed her head towards his quarters. "I'll wait. And this time" --she leaned forward to smile at him impishly-- "I promise not to walk in on you."

Dwayne blushed and chuckled again, "I don't think I want that." He nodded. "And I minded that you walked in before?" He stood up and walked towards his room to get dressed. He had to rewet his hair so he could comb it out properly and then he got dressed. Deep blue shorts, light blue t-shirt, ankle socks and tennis shoes in blue...the shorts were rather tight, so tight that he couldn't be wearing underwear. "Okay, what will we be doing on the planet?"

Amy giggled and bounced towards him. "We are going shopping." She linked arms with him and gazed up with a sweet smile. "And you're paying."

He grinned watching her. "And I suppose you want something?"

Watching him with an enigmatic, mischievous spark in her eyes, it was clear to Dwayne he would be paying dearly for their spat, and Amy would get a lovely pair of shoes out of it.

---

"To Be A Bajoran"
Lt.Commander Benedict T'Kal

Location: Holodeck 2, USS Sulu
Stardate: 57911.01, 13h00

***

Benedict T'Kal stepped into the holodeck and onto a white gravel pathway that led between two high walls choked with white acacia blossoms. The sky was a pale gold with bands of red and grey toward the distant horizon where purple hills seemed to melt into the clouds. The grounds were a riot of greens and golds as autumn set in on the Bajoran Temple.

As the doors closed and melted away into the illusion of the holodeck, Benedict took a deep breath to smell the flowers and then listen to the wind in the trees. He remained motionless and with eyes closed he just listened to the natural rhythms of the place. Birdsong as the Caribay settled for the night, the crickets...the buzz of a bee...wind and the rustle of the trees. Peaceful. He smiled and began the walk to the temple. His sandals crunched on the gravel and his kimono brushed pleasantly against his legs. He wore a traditional Japanese kimono of dove grey with a silver thread pattern that caught the light as he moved. His raven black hair was loose, and hung straight to his mid back. Benedict wore a traditional Bajoran earring, showing his family caste of the old system of Bajoran society.

Benedict made his way through the grounds until the warm yellowed stone walls of the temple surrounded him. The holodeck program was based upon a real Bajoran temple at Ron'Shar in the Bekra Province. It was untouched by the Cardassians and had remained a stronghold of the faith throughout the Occupation. Many Bajorans believed that it had been blessed by the protection of the Prophets and so had remained undefiled. It was the resting place of the Red Tear of the Prophets. The domed temple was smooth and curved, with spires that reached upward and touched the last of the sunlight in golden hues. Inside it was cool, and Benedict smiled at the young boy kneeling by the inside doors. He earned a grin in return as he passed through the entryway, his hands hidden in the sleeves of his kimono.

The steps led downward into a warmly lit open space with three arches, each with intricate wrought iron gates separating the parts of the temple. The Holy shrine and the Red Tear were behind the central arch; to the left was the vestry, a place of preparation for the Vadeks that lived here. The right gateway was open and led to the chapel and the place of meditation. Benedict smiled in remembrance of a day when he was a boy that he'd made a pilgrimage to this place. It had been several months after the death of his parents. Before he'd joined the resistance; before he'd become Tikaru. It was the last day that he'd been at peace with himself. He'd been at war ever since. With the Cardassians, with himself...the war within between the Bajoran nature of his mother, and the Japanese Code of his father.

The song within the chapel was soothing. The song of the Prophets that rose and fell with a soft rhythm and a heartfelt faith. Benedict knelt before the small fountain, the cushion was worn and yet still comfortable as he sat straight-backed and then bowed. He held the bow as his forehead brushed the stone flags. Then rose again to take the earthenware goblet and dip it into the water. He drank and replaced it.

Benedict was feeling a lot better after his brush with death. The evening and night with Tayla had been good; she hadn't left him as she said she might, yet he was still in his own quarters. This morning she had left on the shuttle mission that would take a week. He missed her already.

He let the peace and the song of the Prophets weave its spell in him as it always did. With eyes closed he composed his mind. Sitting straight-backed once more with hands resting comfortably upon his thighs he began the breathing exercise. He tried to think about the void, that place where there was no thought, but he couldn't do it. The imagery of Tayla's face prevented it. The look in her eyes on the day of his death. The image of his dream as she opened her arms and drew him against her pale and scarred body that was cold as death itself. The swiftness and surreal agony that had been the knife blade as it pierced his heart. It was a momentary thing. He'd used the knife because it was expedient. It was there and so it was the instrument of choice.

The images quieted as her face came back to him, not as she had been on that day, but as she had been last night. He'd seen the depths of her fear in her eyes, and the love. She loved him, needed him, relied upon him and he'd risked it in its entirety because of expediency. Because of his dual nature. Because of his unbending code of honour that was the legacy of his father.

Martin Tikaru had been an honourable man. He'd taken his own life as the Cardassians had brutally tortured and raped his wife, Benedict's mother before his eyes. He'd known that their fate was death and before giving up his friends in the Resistance, he had killed himself. It had started a chain of events that had turned Benedict Tikaru into The Golden Tiger. The instrument of his father's revenge. A weapon of expediency. Martin had taught his son to fight from the earliest of years. He'd grown up with the teachings of Bushido and the honour of the warrior. He'd also grown with the love and devotion of his mother; a Bajoran woman who had gifted him with his music and his artistic soul.

He remembered seeing his father brushing his mother's hair, the look on his face as he smiled and touched her with a tenderness that had surprised Benedict as a child. The memory brought forth the face of Tayla, as she smiled too in the mirror, brushing the raven locks of Benedict himself. She had that same look.

He smiled, the sameness touching a deep emotion that brought forth a single tear that fell across his cheek. Prophets...he was so like his father...willing to die for honour's sake, and in so doing the truth...the real truth, was that it had only been a way out...a way to flee the reality of what they had done to his mother. What they had done to Lyrr Tayla.

"There is a time for war and a time for peace," Martin had once said to his fifteen year old son. "Wisdom is in knowing when to take up the sword, and when to lay it down."

Benedict sighed softly as those words reverberated in his mind. He thought again of Tayla, the woman he truly loved above even his honour. Yes, he knew that it was true. He hadn't died for his honour, he'd died for her. Benedict had been so committed to living up to his father's birthright that he had forgotten the promise of his mother's. He'd forgotten what it was to be a Bajoran. To live in peace and love, and to rejoice for what life offered. To forget what the Cardassians had done...to learn to get past it and carry on. As Tayla had done and was doing...her courage and strength shamed him in the light of his own weakness. She would never have betrayed him as he'd done to her...there were no excuses. None he could use to bargain for an innocence he no longer possessed. He only prayed that she would forgive him; he would spend the rest of his life trying to make it up to her.

It was time he laid down his sword. It was time he accepted his responsibility. Lyrr Tayla was a Bajoran woman; filled with spirit and fire and grace, and Benedict T'Kal had been too long a man wed to a dead Klingon wife. If he was to marry Lyrr and take her name, he had to face the truth: he was Bajoran.

He had died of his own hand and lived. It had freed him from the bondage of a previous life and in so doing had given him a new birth. Even in the Japanese traditions he was reborn. Benedict T'Kal had a new life; a life with Lyrr Tayla. A life with a woman who was vulnerable yet strong, fierce yet gentle, passionate and loving...in so many ways she was everything he wanted and the only thing he needed. He had failed her once; he would never fail her again.

Their relationship was fiery, but in that fire something was being forged. It was a bond that was stronger than the one he had with Tebrianne. It was a bond forged through mutual grief and mutual joy, and wreathed in a mutual love; for they did love each other. He loved her enough to die for her...and now he knew that he loved her enough to live for her. The thought of what would have happened if they had failed to bring him back...what would have happened to her, was a torture to his heart now. He'd been blind to the consequence of it; so filled with his own bloated honour. Now he felt it shed like the dead skin of a snake.

"Forgive me, Love..." he breathed as he shed tears for what could have been.

His resolution seemed to bring an inner peace that settled upon him slowly as he knelt before his Prophets, and in the temple of his mother's people - his people - he began to sing. The words were ingrained; the Bajoran language fluid, Benedict's voice was a rich tenor. It wove within the song that was being sung in the upper reaches of the temple and lifted high as he prayed.

For the first time in a long time, Benedict T'Kal knew peace as he embraced what it was to be Bajoran.

---

"Homegrown Biologist"
By: Dr. Terrence Fletcher, CMO

Location: Castari Alpha
Stardate: 57911.01, 13h13

***

Setting down his backpack, Terrence took out a small bottle of wine and uncorked it. Pouring himself a glass, he downed it quickly to quench his strong thirst. He had not had a "drink break" since he had set out earlier that morning, and considering the ground he had covered, it was well deserved.

Shielding his eyes from the bright sun, Terrence brought his gear over a nearby tree and rested in its shade. Taking off his broad-brimmed sun hat, he wiped the beads of perspiration from his forehead. A brief glance at his watch told him it was time for lunch.

Terrence had gone through some information about the local planet last night and stumbled upon a rare herb said to have amazing effects on those with hangovers. Seeing an immediate and personal use for such qualities, Terrance had arranged a little day-trip planet-side. He had been, so far, unsuccessful in his search, but the hike around the forests and the sun was making him feel much better. He guessed that some of toxins might be sweated out at least.

Swatting away some insects, Terrence rummaged through his day pack for his packed lunch. His hand came across several plastic boxes with which he had stored various fascinating examples of local flora. Taking his lunch and setting it on his lap, Terrence ate as he took in his surroundings. He was somewhere in the middle of the jungle of the planet. He did not know his precise location, but was not concerned - the Sulu was within sight and as an added precaution, a communicator was clipped to the outside of his hot-weather uniform shirt. The sun beat down and came through the foliage of the trees, tingeing the area a greenish color. The sound of the local jungle animals as well as the shouts and screams of pleasure from the Sulu crewmembers on shore leave could be heard.

Another swig from the bottle and Terrence got back to his feet, brushing off any crumbs and taking care to replace the wrappers back into his bag for disposal later on the ship. He did not want to ruin such a well preserved natural environment. A few moments later and Terence put his hat back on and was ready to go. Although it was hot, Terrence had deemed the hat necessary. He did not, after all, wish to end up in a similar state to Ensign Reese, although he had heard the cream he had given her was working wonders.

Back on his hike, keeping his eyes open for the distinct leaf of the medicinal herb he was looking for, Terrence paid careful attention to other scientifically intriguing specimens. He was not a science officer, but his study of biology had left him with a mild interest in the subject - an interest which Terrence actively pursued. When his interest coincided with his job as a medical man, Terrence rarely let an opportunity pass.

He doubted very much if he would find the specimen he was after, but at least when he got back on board that night he would have sufficient exercise and fresh air to tide him over until the next shore leave opportunity presented itself.

Taking another swig from the bottle, Terrence brushed a branch away with his free hand and continued with his hike.

---

"Native Remedies"
By: Lieutenant Terrance Fletcher
Nolana

Location: Forest on Castari Alpha
Stardate: 57911.01, 14h15

***

Bent over a patch of greenery in search of his miracle hang-over cure, Dr. Terrance Fletcher was barely aware of the creature tracking him. It moved with lithe grace, threading its way through the copse without even rustling a leaf. For a good hour Fletcher had been in the creature's sights, from his trek through the forest, to his short picnic in the clearing. Now, though, it sought its chance to emerge and surprise the man from behind. Not even its approach was noticed by the doctor, and save for the shadow now falling over the patch of foliage he had been studying, he had still been surprised.

Terrence turned around when he noticed the shadow from behind him. Through the trees and shadows it was distorted and looked like a frightening specimen. Instead it was a petite little local girl, not much taller than his armpit. She was fairly attractive he thought... Or maybe it was the wine?... She was tanned, fit and with those little patterns on her forehead. What really clinched it for Terrence were her eyes. They were round and bold and staring at him with the most innocent and pleading look... Or maybe it was the wine again?

"Hello there," Terrence said, straightening up and readjusting his bag. "What are you up to sneaking up on people like that?"

Her smile was dazzling. "What are you doing tramping through my forest?" she countered in her rich accent. "You are one of the foreigners. Are you lost?"

Terrance smiled. Maybe she could help him in his, as yet, unfruitful search. "I'm a foreigner, yes... I'm looking for a special plant in this forest - one which can help hangovers... do you know it?"

The young woman frowned quizzically. "Hangover?" she repeated haltingly. "I do know much about the plants of my planet...but you must explain to me this condition you speak of." Then, she smiled eagerly. "I do wish to help you."

"That's good. I need all the help I can get," Terrance said, grinning. He offered his hand. "I'm Terrance by the way. Thanks for helping Miss....?

Lowering her eyes demurely, she moved forward laid her hand upon his. "I am Nolana." Then her green eyes flashed towards his and again she was smiling silkily. "Let us walk. I will teach you all about the native vegetation." And with her free hand, she lifted the hem of her robe clear of the ground and walked forward with lithe grace. "Are you a...botanist then, Mr. Terrance?"

"I'm a doctor actually. I'm the Chief Medical Officer of that "foreign" ship - the Sulu," Terrance said. This was alright really, Terrance thought. Well what did he expect? Some crazy warrior-like woman that would try to drink him under the table? Come to think of it, it had happened once... "So, Nolana? What can you tell me about your forest?"

"It is very old," she began, speaking softly and with wonder. "Not many tread here - the law will not allow it. Only those permitted to may roam." Her sweet, not entirely innocent smile returned. "I am one of those. Of course, if anyone other than myself had seen you roaming about, you may have gotten yourself into trouble." Terrance felt the weight of her bosom press heavily into his arm. "But, I shall protect you," she whispered silkily. And before her smouldering gaze could burn him, she chuckled softly and led him into a dense stand of trees. "We may find what you are looking for within here. For...hang-overs you said? How does one acquire such a thing?"

"When one assumes to be able to outdrink an Asian..." Terrance replied, smiling to himself. He was not going to make that mistake any time soon. "How many others like you are allowed in the forests?"

She lighted swatted his forearm and emitted a musical laugh. "But, there is no other like me, Mr. Terrance," she teased. "I am considered quite a...prize, you would call it, on my planet. Only I and my retinue are permitted within these forests, however. This is Chawla territory, after all. But since I am accompanying you, you shall be safe." And with a gentle tug, she veered them towards a patch of low vegetation, blossoming with delicately pink flowers. "That will be what you are looking for, I believe. Is your knowledge of medicine not advanced enough to have found your own cure for this...hang-over?"

"We have ways to deal with it - all of which take a considerable amount of time and effort, though. Nothing compared to what this plant can do..." Terrance said, eyeing the plant with reverence. Finally, he thought. "Thank you, Nolana," he said, his eyes still on the wonderful plant. "If there is anything I can do to repay you..."

"But you have not even tested its efficacy," she told him as she crouched before the bed of leaves and flowers. They were a deep blue-green with lines of white shot through them. Nolana plucked up one of them, then raised it towards Terrance. "All you need is a single leaf. Tell me if it tastes like anything from your planet." And her dazzling smile was added encouragement.

Terrance nodded his agreement. Taking the leaf carefully, he delicately pulled off a small part. Taking a deep breath, he put it into his mouth and closed his eyes. Instantly they were flung open. A bitter-sweet taste filled his mouth and he gagged trying not to spit it out.

Swallowing the rest whole, Terrance turned to Nolana. "What the hell?!" He stopped abruptly. His voice was no longer echoing inside his head. He checked himself again. His headache was gone. His mouth was no longer dry. His expression changed. "It seems to have worked," he said, this time softer. "Thank you for pointing it out to me, Nolana."

Her exotic eyes wore an inscrutable expression, one incongruent with the sweet smile she was flashing him. "I am glad it has helped, Terrance," she told him. "Now...it is time for you to help me."

The effects of the plant on his head seemed to be successful. So successful, in fact, that he was now feeling slightly faint. Terrance shook his head once or twice to clear it. "Yes, Nolana..." Nolana? he thought to himself. He giggled dopily. He looked at her. Boy! She's pretty! Terrance giggled again. Through the giggles he managed to ask, "You want me to help you? How?"

She remained smiling at Terrance, and there was something disquieting about her response. "You already are, Human. Though, wouldn't you prefer to lie down? You are looking rather unsteady." Nolana swept one hand over the lush bed of grass. "Right here...beside me now."

Why was she calling him human instead of Terrance? he wondered and then giggled again. "On the grass? Okay," Terrance said, lying down on his back. The sun hit and face and he squinted against the light. "Hey! This tickles!" Another stream of giggling came out.

Nolana's smile faltered almost imperceptibly and her kindly expression suddenly hardened a touch. "Are you not weary, Mr. Terrance?" she asked hopefully. "Here." In her hand, she thrust another leaf into Terrance's face. "Have another."

All sense had left Terrance by now. "Sure. Why not?" Another giggle.

Dropping the leaf into Terrance's gaping mouth, Nolana sat back and watched him chew it lazily. "Mr. Terrance?" she whispered, watching him expectantly. "Are you sleepy? You look very sleepy. You should close your eyes."

Despite a niggling voice deep inside him, Terrance nodded his agreement. "Whatever you say, Nolana. You're too good to me..."

"And you can be good to me, too," Nolana whispered, tapping the tip of his nose with her finger. "Do you know how?" She smiled and leaned her face over his. "Sleep," was her silent command.

How would that help her? Terrance thought, his cloudy mind blocking out that shrill voice of reason from deep within him. "If you say so, Nolana..."

She remained expectantly silent, watching his eyes drift closed and his breathing becoming more relaxed. It had taken more than the usual dose, but he was finally succumbing to the natural sedative he'd ingested. Hesitant to speak, Nolana lowered her voice to less than a whisper, and asked, "Mr. Terrance...are you asleep?"

Terrance tried to lie still, playing with her. He could not help it though and started giggling. "No... Not yet..." he said playfully. "I'll try now..."

Nolana held back a grumble of discontent, maintaining her smile. "Well...let me make you a little more comfortable," she offered and began undoing his shirt. "Shall we relieve you of this, then?" One hand smoothed over his bared chest while the other continued unzipping the garment. "Feeling better? Maybe you would like your pants off as well?" Her hands dropped to his waist next.

Terrance looked down at young woman's head bent over his crotch. This is getting interesting, he thought. He scowled as the fierce sun reached down on him. Again a little voice inside his head screamed out, barely heard. Just exactly how was this helping him to sleep? He reached out to stop her, but found himself too weary to do so. Uh, oh... This couldn't be good could it?

"See?" She grinned triumphantly. "It is already helping. A little more." Grunting gently, she tugged his pants down over his hips. "Asleep yet?" she asked him, and gritted her teeth with the effort of driving down his pants. They seemed to be stuck around his thighs, and a strong, quick jerk only landed Nolana flat on her back. She sighed wearily. "Humans...."

What?! Alarm bells went off in Terrance's head. No, that wasn't good at all. But he couldn't do a thing about it now. He was dead weight and he was having trouble keeping his eyes up. What was he meant to do now? He fought it all the way, but gradually, sleep took over.

Nolana was on her knees again, leaning over him and studying his closed lids with scrutiny. There wasn't even a flicker. Finally she sighed, experiencing a brief moment of sympathy for the man and the position he would soon find himself in. "It is important," she whispered. "My life depends upon your help." Then with renewed effort, she pulled free his pants, and began wondering what would work best as a belt to secure them around her slender waist, as well as whether or not Terrance would appreciate waking up in her dress.

---

"Tight Spots, Part 1"
By: Ensign Amy Reese
Ensign Dwayne Sanchez
Ensign Kit Markham
Ensign Kelzira Rax

Location: Castari Alpha
Stardate 57911.01, 15h35

***

Amy wrinkled her nose at the item Dwayne was pointing to on the clothing stand, then shook her head adamantly. "Dwayne...can you really picture Kelli or Tchi wearing that? It's long-sleeved!"

Dwayne sighed. This was the fourth shop they'd tried and still he couldn't find anything the girls would like. He put the piece of clothing back on the rack and continued looking. "Damnit, Amy...I'm no good at this."

"You'll get better," she assured him, and rubbed his back soothingly for comfort. "I mean...what you really have to do is think about Kel and Tchi...and just go with what you think reminds you of them."

He looked at her. "Does it get easier? I mean to buy gifts for those you care about?" He wasn't going to say the 'L' word...he Loved Amy, he cared about these two very much but he didn't attribute it to love. Even if nothing came of him and Amy, he couldn't love another the way he loved her. But after hurting her like he had, he wasn't sure he had a chance with her again.

Walking past the next rack he saw a piece that looked like it would work with Tchi's coloring perfectly. It was a sundress designed dress in a shimmering cerulean blue. The dress would come down to just a little above Tchi's knees and the back dipped down to just under her shoulder blades, if he was any judge of women...if not women's clothing. He pulled the dress from the rack and showed it to Amy... "Well?"

"Hmm..." She picked up the bottom of the dress and smoothed her hand over the material. It seemed to shimmer iridescently wherever her hand passed. "It's perfect!" she declared. "See? You're already getting better. I think you have a knack for this, really."

Dwayne wasn't sure how to take that... He looked at the tag on the dress to see how much latinum this was going to set him back and whistled... "Damn, Three slips of latinum..." But it was so obviously for Tchi...

"We can look for something else," Amy suggested gently. "Though that is very pretty...."

Dwayne shook his head. "I'm getting it...I can see Tchalla wearing it in my mind...I can't see her out of uniform...er, in civvies with thinking of her not having this...does that make sense?"

Amy chuckled. "In a way, sure. So...get it," she urged him with an elbow to the ribs. "Maybe we can bargain for it."

Dwayne nodded. What could he lose, besides three strips of latinum? He carried the silky dress with him, realizing for the first time that the thing only had one shoulder, keeping the other bare. But that would make it all the better. He turned to Amy. "Is there anything else I should get to go with this?"

Amy smiled dreamily. "Jewellery, Dwayne. Women love jewellery."

How did I know she was going to say that? Dwayne thought. "I was thinking something a little more practical...like maybe shoes...or even boots...this dress cries out, 'boots.' What do you think?"

"Boots?!" Amy bellowed. "Are you mad? Sandals, Dwayne. Go with sandals."

Dwayne sighed. "How about both?"

Amy smiled. "Good plan. Shall we?" And without waiting for concurrence, she jerked Dwayne along to the front of the small shop to pay. The clerk, of course, flashed Dwayne a pretty smile.

"For your mate?" she asked, and glanced towards Amy.

Dwayne nodded. He was blushing. "Yes." Not wanting to admit that the woman next to him wasn't his mate, he left it off that it was for another woman. He quickly paid the woman for the dress, and leading Amy from the shop he groaned softly, "God, that was embarrassing."

"Oh, it wasn't so bad," Amy said. "They're very open people." She snickered and added, "You are the one who chased me through the corridors in just a towel, so I'm sure you can relate."

"Amy, on a ship where there are people I know is one thing...here...there is no way I'd do something like that here." He walked along till he spotted a shoe shop. He walked over and pointed to a pair of blue iridescent sandals. "Those will look good."

"I have a feeling you've got a thing for blue," Amy teased. "Come on, let's get those shoes, then we need to track down Kel and Tchi." She squealed with excitement. "I can't wait to see their faces!" Then, her glee faded. "Unless...you'd rather be alone with them to do it...."

"God, Ames, you'd think you never had a slumber party with your girlfriends before." He let Kit's old nick name for her slip out without realizing it. "Besides, I don't have anything for Kelli, yet."

"You'll find something, don't worry." And as they entered the shop, Amy couldn't help smiling at Dwayne. It was nearly like old times once again - maybe better. Though she'd only know that for certain once she got a first hand look at Dwayne's behaviour in the presence of Kelli and Tchi, and especially how quickly he rejected her when he was.

He nodded. He really didn't want to leave Kelli out...they walked into the shop and picked out the shoes. "I don't know what size she wears..."

"I'll try them on," Amy volunteered readily, and rushed into the store with suddenly greater enthusiasm at the prospect of playing dress-up.

***

A few hours later, after leaving a message on Kelli's computer in her quarters she shared with Tchi, Dwayne headed for the refresher for another shower. While he showered, he thought of the gifts he purchased for the girls. The nice blue color of the dress that shimmered in the light, one six inch wide strap that went over her left shoulder and came just short of her knees on the skirt. A pair of sandals the same shade to match the dress would look just sexy on Tchi.

Then there was a similar outfit, but a catsuit that he got for Kelli, sexy and would show off a few of those spots of hers as the sides were laced rather than solid. The color was red and would match those spots of hers. He groaned thinking of those. Maybe it would be time for he and Kelli...nah, wouldn't be the same without Tchi. He finished his shower as he continued with his thoughts. Red sandals for her as well, both pairs were a little high, maybe 2.5 inches, but he thought they'd look sexy. Great for in private, but not really for public consumption, Dwayne thought.

He stepped out of the shower and dried himself off before leaving the refresher to his bedroom, buck naked.

"Dwayne!" Amy sang from within her own room. "Are you done yet? Can I see?"

"Done with what? I just got out of the shower. Has Kelli responded to my invitation yet?"

There was a soft pinging sound at the door, indicating that someone had arrived. Amy giggled. "Well...what do you think?"

Dwayne cursed under his breath as he made a bee-line for his bedroom to get dressed. He yanked out the pants he'd planned for the evening and glanced at the nearly twin packages he had on his bed. One wrapped in purple the other wrapped in red. He hurriedly slipped into his pants, sans underwear since the pants were too tight to allow them without them showing through via the leg seams. He then slipped into a deep blue button down shirt with all but the upper three buttons done. The shade of blue of the shirt contrasted with his complexion and the collar of the shirt enhanced, even deepened the shade of brown in his eyes. He tucked the shirt in and pulled on simple loafers with no socks. He took up the package and had thought that by the time he'd come from his room, that Amy would have answered the door.

The chime sounded again. "Dwayne!" Amy shouted. "Get it! I'm still zipping up my skirt!"

He mumbled something under his breath about women taking too long as he tucked the package behind a chair against the bulkhead as he walked over to the door. He answered the door and leaned against the frame when it opened to see who stood there.

The body on the other side was the same height as Kelzira Rax, but definitely wasn't Kelzira. "Hey there, Dwayne," came Kit Markham's voice. "Is Amy around? I found this great club over on the coastal side of the city, and...well, I was wondering if she wanted to check it out with me." He glanced down at Dwayne's pants, blinked twice at the fabric straining against Dwayne's body, then returned his gaze to Dwayne. "If she's around."

"Um, yeah, she's around. She said something about zipping her skirt up." He wasn't sure why, but Kit made him uncomfortable. But he stepped aside. "You wanna come in and wait for her?"

"Sure thing," Kit said with a smile. "Thanks. And, nice outfit. Big date tonight?"

"Um, you could say that," Dwayne said as the doors close behind them. He'd say the same about his outfit or even the fact that he'd invited Amy to stay for dinner because she'd wanted to see Kelli open her gift. "I'll let her know you're here..." He turned to go knock on Amy's bedroom door...

"Is it her?" Amy hollered excitedly. The door slid aside and Amy nearly collided with Dwayne as she rushed from the room. She halted nose to nose with Dwayne, though her eyes were aimed down at his pants. "Oh, Dwayne," she snickered. "Are you sure those fit?"

He wasn't amused. He looked at her and then gestured to the living area...and to Kit. "You have company." He said this with little to no emotion in his voice.

She wrinkled her nose inquisitively. "I have company?" Curiousity piqued, she sidled past Dwayne then skipped into the living area.

He let her pass him. He walked back in and leaned against the wall. He had no right to be jealous, but there was no logic to love, and especially when the one he loved had just thrown herself into another man's arms... He kept silent all the while, just listening, watching.

At the sight of Kit, Amy grinned and bolted forward to embrace him, nearly sweeping him off his feet. "What are you doing here!?" she asked excitedly.

Kit couldn't help laughing as she spun them around. "Long story short. You. Me. Club over on the coastal side. Live music and dancing. If you're up for it, of course. They even have a room off to the back with an open mic."

"Really?" Amy whispered in awe as she set him down. "Just you and me?" Her smile flagged and Amy stepped back pensively. "I don't know, Kit...I mean, Kelli and Dwayne were going to dinner... I thought maybe we could go with them..."

Dwayne hadn't planned on anyone else but him, Kelli and Amy going...but he kept his mouth shut to let Kit respond. It was, after all, his decision...not Dwayne's.

"Sure," Kit said with a grin. "If they'd like to come with us, the more the merrier. It should be a lot of fun. I heard a little of the band's music in the market earlier. They've got a remarkable sound. And, with more Suluists there, maybe we can make some music in the back, introduce people to what we like back home."

Amy swung around boisterously to face Dwayne, rocking on her feet with barely contained glee as she asked, "So...would that be alright, Dwayne?"

What he thought was, I guess Kelli won't be getting her gift till later. What he said was, "Sure, I could use a little time on the keyboard." Not like he didn't get enough with his own keyboard he had in his bedroom in these very quarters.

"Great!" she gushed. "I just have to finish getting ready, then we can go." Turning back, she planted a kiss on Kit's cheek, then did the same to Dwayne before running past him and disappearing in her room.

Dwayne watched as she left the room to finish getting ready, then he turned back to Kit. "Um, so, how are things at flight control?" His abuela always said that if he didn't have anything nice to say either go to a neutral topic or say nothing...he opted for a neutral topic.

"Not so busy now that we're on the ground," Kit said. "Before though it was pretty hectic. Marp and I, we've been run pretty ragged as the only flight controllers aboard. Tebrianne is around, but I guess she's still recovering from everything, and they don't want her doing anything too sensitive...like trying to fly a ship or interact with the crew. But, it was keeping me busy. Now, though, the R&R here on the planet's a nice break." He studied Dwayne for a moment. "So, how've things been for you lately? Rumour has it you've got your hands full."

"Um, yeah, I guess you could say that..." He wasn't sure how detailed he (Dwayne) wanted to get.

"Good," Kit said with a nod. "So, you really are okay with this tonight? You...you seemed a little hesitant."

"It's okay, it wasn't anything important." Of course not, fool, just giving your girlfriend...one of your girlfriends a present isn't important. That seemed a little strange to him, having two girlfriends...but he'd get used to it...unless something happened and he didn't get a chance go get used to it... Where's Kelli anyway? he thought as he glanced at the chronometer...

Kit nodded. "Sure," he said. "Well, it should be a great night. The music is really amazing. It should be lots of fun, and...it'll help loosen everyone up."

Dwayne nodded. He would then go to Amy's door. "Hey, Amy? You done yet?"

"Why?" she asked teasingly through the door. "You miss me already?"

What was he supposed to say to that? 'No, I'm starting to turn chicken with your ex in here and Kelli's late?' Of course he wasn't going to say that... "Don't tease, Amy."

Frowning irritably, Amy emerged. "Don't be such a sourpuss, Dwayne," she admonished, then tossed back her purple hair with one pale hand. "Let's go see what Kelli's up to, then. Have you got everything?"

"I don't think I'll be taking the 'gift.' I don't think it'd be appropriate for...him to see it." Him being Kit.

"And why not?" Amy asked defensively. "Kit's our friend. What's wrong with him sharing in this?"

Dwayne didn't want to fight about it. He went to where he'd hidden the gift when he'd thought it was Kelli at the door. "Let's go then." And he walked straight for the door.

As Dwayne reached the door and it whooshed open, he nearly bowled over Kelzira, who was on the other side of the door with outstretched finger, ready to press the chime. "Oh," she cried out, deftly avoiding ending up on the floor, "hi Dwayne. Hi, Amy."

Amy forced a smile. "Hi. Looks like Dwayne's in a hurry to get going."

Dwayne's face softened seeing her. "Hi, Kelli..." He blushed a second as he handed over the package. "I...I got you a present."

"Oh, Dwayne, thank you," she said. She was dressed in a short skirt and sleeveless top, with the necklace Kit got for herself, Tchalla, and Amy around her neck. She accepted the package from him as a large smile curled her lips. "The wrapping is beautiful." She carefully tore into the wrappings and soon had the contents of the package revealed. "Oh, Dwayne," she purred, "it's beautiful. Thank you." She wrapped her arms around him and hugged him tight. "Thank you very much."

His arms wrapped around her. The instant she was in his arms everything and everyone else faded... "I'm glad you liked it. I...we, Amy and I spent the afternoon shopping for it."

"It's great," she murmured into his embrace. "I love it, Dwayne. I'll have to try it on and see how it looks."

Dwayne pulled her gently away from him so he could look into her face. "That'll have to wait. That's something I would like to see on you when it's just you and me." He smiled at her. "Okay? Besides, we've had a change in plans." He stood back so she could see that Kit had joined them.

Kelli gave Kit a smile and turned her gaze back to Dwayne. "Alright," she said with a grin. "So, what are our new plans?" She reached up and kissed his chin. "And, I hope it involves some food soon. I've hardly eaten all day."

"Apparently there's this club that Kit found on the surface. He thought he'd invite Amy to go and visit it. Amy invited us along. I'm sure there's food." He turned to Kit, the question on his face. "There is food there, isn't there?"

"I can't think of anywhere on this planet where they don't have food," Kit said. "I'm surprised the entire population isn't huge with the amount of food they eat. Then again, they are very active, judging from the sounds coming from the bushes last night."

Dwayne looked back to Kelzira. "Will that be satisfactory?" A big word coming from him? And he towered over all of them, which meant he needed to look down when he spoke to them.

Kelzira grinned. "Yes," she said, and took a pose of formal smugness. "It will be most satisfactory." Unable to hold back any longer, she broke back into a grin. "Well, I'm ready to go now since you want to wait for private time for my new outfit."

Dwayne nodded. "We should drop it by your quarters before we leave though..." He turned to Kit. "If that's okay with you."

"Oh, that's fine with me," Kit said. "You're alright with that?" He turned to Kelli. "You're okay with that? I think we're all okay with it, though I must frown at you, Dwayne, for not letting Kelli show off your present to her." The face he presented to Dwayne was halfway between a frown and a pout.

Dwayne looked a little surprised... "Well, it is something that'll work in the club scene, but it's up to her if she wants to wear it." He looked to Kelli. "I would love to see you in it."

Kelli nodded. "I'll go put it on," she said, and ran with the package to the refresher. She was only gone for about five minutes before she stepped out in the new outfit, its dark red going perfectly with the spotted flesh showing through the open gaps running the length of the garment. She looked at the expectant trio and grinned. "Well?"

Dwayne moved to enfold her into his arms. "Beautiful, just like I thought it would be." He looked at Amy and Kit. "Don't you think so too?"

Amy smiled wanly. "As always," she answered.

He turned to Kit. "What about you?"

"I think it looks great," Kit said with a grin to Kelli. "I refuse to say more on the grounds of...well, upsetting anyone."

Dwayne chuckled. "Well, if we're going to go see this new hip and swinging club," he moved to the twentieth century lingo he liked so much, "maybe we should go?"

Kelli slipped her hand into Dwayne's. "I'm ready," she said with a grin. She looked at what the others were wearing, then at herself again. "This isn't too much, is it?"

Dwayne looked down at himself. "I think I'm a little over dressed here."

"You look great," Kelli purred. "Come on. Let's get going then."

He nodded, then he looked to Kit and Amy. "Well, if we're ready, let's go."

Kit held an arm out to Amy. "Time to go party, my dear," he said with a grin. "Suluist style."

Amy smiled warmly and wrapped her arm around his. "Let's go, Kitty...our style."

Dwayne glanced at the two of them, a flare of jealousy shot through his body, but he pounded it down savagely. His gaze settled on Kit. "Well, Markham, you know where this club is, why don't you lead the way?"

Kit glanced over at Dwayne and gave him a firm nod. "You know, Sanchez, that's a damn find idea. Come on, this way." With that, he led the way out of the quarters, and off through the corridors of the Sulu. It would be a night to remember...

Dwayne said nothing more as Kit led them out of the quarters. He hadn't understood Kit's new attitude towards him, but he kept his mouth shut. He wasn't going to say anything, not wanting to spoil the evening.

They exited the ship together and started off across the expanse of green grassland toward the city. The sun was down and the lights were coming on. The party of the previous night would happen again, would go on through the night. Though, this time there would be no liaisons between Sulu and Castari, despite the grumblings from both sides. Those upset over the changes would have to find alternative methods of partying, though Kit had faith that they would find a way to enjoy themselves, even with the new rules.

***

They arrived at the club and it was busy with people dancing and having a good time. As promised, there was a band on the stage and the music was everything Kit said it would be. He couldn't help admiring the instruments they played, and wondered if he might be able to find a way to bring one back with him. He leaned in to the others. "So, what do you think?"

Kelli laughed. "The music is great," she said. "It reminds me of this group of musicians that Looryx used to listen to, but not quite. These guys certainly have more energy."

Dwayne's hand tapped his thigh with the beat. "It's not twentieth century, but it's got a good beat." He turned to Kelli. "What say after we've eaten something we go and get in some dancing?"

Kelli grinned. "I was hoping you'd say that," she said. "I'd love to."

He grinned. Then he glanced around the room searching for a table, an empty table...finding one he pointed it out. "Kit, how about over there?"

Kit glanced in the direction Dwayne was pointing and nodded. "Looks like the best table in the house," he said with a smile for Amy. "Come on, let's go see what sorts of things they have on the menu. I'm hoping they have more of that fruity drink they had at the party last night. That was pretty amazing stuff."

"You should have been there, Dwayne. The food was so good. I think you would have enjoyed it."

Dwayne wouldn't look at anyone in particular, including Kelli. "I...I've been a little busy," he said, a blush staining his cheeks.

Kelli grinned as she brushed a finger over the fabric of her new outfit. "Yes, you have," she said. "It's so great to be out here with you guys. I hardly get to see my best friends these days. They're keeping us so busy." She grinned at Amy.

Smiling knowingly at Dwayne, Amy added, "Very busy, it would seem."

Dwayne's blush deepened at Kelli's words. Not like it wasn't going all over between their friends, but he couldn't help it. He'd been brought up to believe in purity and here he had broken every rule his Grandmother enforced on him as a kid. Of course, Amy's words didn't help any. Speaking gruffly, he said, "Let's go sit down."

Kit and Amy were already sitting when Dwayne and Kelli arrived at the table. "Listen to that sound," Kit said with a grin, then turned to Amy. "Drinks! What would you like?"

She tapped her chin pensively, then giggled and bounced in her seat once decided. "A...blue one! I don't know what they're called, but definitely one of those."

Dwayne looked at Kelli. "What about you?"

Kelli's look turned slightly dreamy as she looked at Dwayne. "Blue sounds very tasty, I think."

"You gonna grab that, Dwayne, or did you want me to?"

"I probably should, I still need to order something." He helped Kelli to sit down and then he made his way to the bar.

Once he was out of ear shot, Amy leaned forward and waved Kelli and Kit to follow. "What is wrong with that man!" she whispered. "Do you see those pants? And those looks he's giving me and Kit? Looks like he's a little overprotective, Kel."

"I may have been hit in the head with a guitar too many times," Kit said, "but my guess is he doesn't like me being here. And, he doesn't like me being here with you."

"With me?" Amy asked incredulously. "He's more interested in Kelli than he ever was in me, Kit. It's almost as if he's afraid one or both of us will snatch her away from him."

Kit shrugged and glanced over at Dwayne at the bar. "Does he know about...well, the three of us and our past?"

Kelli shook her head. "I don't think so," she said. "I never told him."

Kit nodded. "Well, he'll have to learn to get used to it. He can't keep you away from your friends if you want to spend time with them. It's not fair. Personally, I think we should get him toasted...that'll loosen him up."

Amy snickered. "And maybe his pants, too."

Kelli giggled. "They're a little tight," she said. "But it lets you know what he's got to work with. But, I will say no more for fear of saying something I shouldn't."

"Oh we know all about it already," Amy assured her. "I've seen it all, too, remember?"

Kit laughed. "I feel so left out," he said. "And, that is not an invitation."

---

"Tight Spots, Part 2"
By: Ensign Amy Reese
Ensign Dwayne Sanchez
Ensign Kit Markham
Ensign Kelzira Rax

Location: Castari Alpha
Stardate 57911.01, 18h15

***

He made it up to the bar and snapped his fingers. He'd forgotten to ask Kit what he'd wanted to drink, but it seemed both girls wanted some of the blue stuff so he figured to get some for them all. When it was his turn, he ordered four of the stuff, and asked what it was called. The bartender said what it was called, but Dwayne couldn't pronounce it again if he'd tried.

He pulled out four slips of latinum, probably over-paying, and then he gathered the four drinks in his hands and headed back.

Amy, Kit, and Kelli quickly ended their conversation and pulled back from their huddle. Amy grinned up at Dwayne. "So, which is mine?"

"They're all the same stuff... Sorry, Kit, didn't know what you wanted. I'd forgotten to ask." He served them all their drinks then sat back down next to Kelli.

"Oh, that's alright," Kit said, "this is what I would have ordered anyway. So, what do you think?"

"It's great," Kelli said, sipping at her drink and slipping her hand into Dwayne's. "Oh wow, what a strange feeling." She looked from Amy, to Kit, and then to Dwayne. "I just realized...I've been...you know, intimate with everyone at the table here."

Dwayne looked shocked at first. "Oh? Really?" Hmmm, but it apparently was before she and I had been...what's the big deal, right? Right "Hey, no biggie. I'm sure it was before we got together."

Kelli laughed. "Well, unless I've been very busy, yes," she said. "I would have had to have slept with both Amy and Kit within the last week. When have I had time? No, Dwayne, it was back around the time we were on Risa, before Tchi and I got together."

Dwayne nodded. "That's okay. I was still kind of loning it then."

"Yes, you were," Kelli said. "And, if I have anything to say about it, your days of loning are over."

Dwayne smiled. "Good, 'cause it gets rather lonely."

"Oh," Amy teased, "so...is it official? Are you guys a permanent couple?"

"Oh, well, with Tchi, I'd say we're more than just a couple."

"I think so," Kelli said with a grin, "but we're still figuring some stuff out. But, I think it's pretty...couplish, with three people."

Dwayne reached over to take Kelli's hand in his, his other hand holding his drink. He took up the glass and sipped at the liquid in it. "Yeah. Things will get worked out though, if you two have anything to do about it." He squeezed Kelli's hand gently in his, letting her know he was teasing.

Amy chuckled uncertainly. "What do you mean if we have anything to do about it? You think we hold sway over Kelli and Tchi?"

Dwayne looked at Amy. "Oh, no...I'm sorry, I meant Kelli and Tchi. We'll get through this if Kelli and Tchi has anything to do with it. I...I didn't mean to imply th...damn." He took another drink from his glass, not sure what it was but he wasn't about to deny the effects it had on him either.

Kit hid his smirk with a drink from his own glass.

Kelzira rested her head on Dwayne's shoulder, grinning at Amy and Kit. "I love it when he gets flustered like that," she said, the squeeze of his hand telling Dwayne that she was teasing. "And, we will figure it out, though with Tchi not here until that mission is done, I hope you don't mind...us alone." She gave him a salacious grin. "You can count my spots again."

Oh God, he thought to himself with a silent groan. She did know how to get to him didn't she? He swallowed his discomfort by taking another drink, which drained his glass. He didn't get drunk often, but this was about to kick him in the ass. Apparently he was the only one who'd finished his drink, but he wasn't about to go and get another one till everyone else was ready. He turned to Kelli once he'd regained his composure. "How about something to eat?" His voice was getting a little slurred too.

Kelli grinned at him. "That sounds like a great idea," she said. There was a vidscreen in the center of the table that she activated. It displayed the food options that the club offered, and the selection appeared as amazing as the previous night. "I want some of those skipri wings again, those were great last night."

Dwayne glanced at her. "You were here lasht night?" He had to blink his eyes a few times to clear them, and then they weren't all that clear. "Why washn't I invited along?" Was he pouting???

"When we were all heading out to the party for the ship," Kelli said, "you were sound asleep. So, we came down without you. Didn't you hear about the party? The whole crew was invited."

Oh, he thought. Yeah, he'd heard about the party...but he didn't know that Kelli had gone. He felt bad that he hadn't gone with her and Tchi... "I'm shorry I didn't go." Maybe he shouldn't have drunk all that in one sitting. It really had a bad effect on him.

Kelli laughed softly. "Oh, I wish you'd been there, but you would have had to have danced with me and Tchi. Maybe we can get some practice tonight if you can stand up."

Amy snorted. "Unlikely. I doubt he'd be able to get anything up tonight...if you get my meaning..." she muttered to herself.

"Maybe after we've had shomething to eat," Dwayne replied.

"That sounds like a perfect idea," Kelli said to Dwayne then grinned at Amy. "I've never seen him drunk before. This will be...an experience. Too bad we don't have a holocam. We could take images and send them in a love note to Tchi."

Ignoring Kelli's comment for the moment, he motioned for a waitress to come over and pointed out what Kelli wanted. Then he looked at the menu and made a choice or two of his own, then turned the menu for Kit and Amy to make their choices.

Amy thanked Dwayne with a smile for the first polite act he'd performed the entire evening and perused the list of dishes with Kit. Amy ducked her head beneath the top of the menu projection to conceal her face, then put her head together with Kit's. "We have to get out of here...fast," she whispered. "This evening is a disaster waiting to happen."

"Back to the ship would be best," Kit said. "Send the two of them off to Kelli and Tchi's quarters for some alone-time." He gave her a nod and looked up at the waitress. "Two orders of the athrik cakes, an order of the igrit, and some water." He gave the waitress a smile, then grinned at Amy as he let his body start moving with the music. "This is great. I want some recordings."

"Yeah, shounds great." He would get up and dance, except he told Kelli they could after they'd eaten. He didn't like the idea of being drunk...but for some reason he already was and he wasn't sure he was looking forward to the next day.

Before their waitress could depart, Amy stopped her and asked her to deny any further requests from Dwayne for drinks. "Just fruit juice, if you will."

Dwayne heard Amy's request and, for all intents and purposes, pouted, "I'm a big boy, I don't need nobody to tell me what I can and cannot have or how much or whatever."

Amy snorted. "Obviously you do, Dwayne. You can't even talk properly!"

Dwayne looked at her. He stuck his tongue out at her. "Fine, be that way."

"Dwayne," Kelli said as she leaned close to him so that her voice didn't carry too far, "you're very tipsy. You shouldn't have any more to drink until at least after you've had a meal."

Dwayne sighed, shutting his mouth now. "I've only had one...how can I be drunk?"

"Because you're incapable of holding your liquor, that's why, Dwayne," Amy answered sarcastically.

"When was the last time you've had something to eat?" Kelli asked. "And, when's the last time you had alcohol?"

Dwayne just looked at Amy, then he turned his gaze to Kelli. "I...I ate at dinner time. Or was that..." He turned his head this way and that. "Anyway, that time when I go eat between the morning and evening meals?" He couldn't remember what most people called it but that was okay. "An' I've never had any alcohol."

Amy laughed aloud. "You're even too drunk to notice you're drunk!"

"I d...don't appreciate being laughed at, Amy," Dwayne replied.

"Well then don't get drunk...and don't wear those pants ever again," she retorted.

Dwayne turned his attention to Kelli, ignoring Amy. If she wanted to be petty, that was fine with him.

"You're not too drunk yet," Kelli said to him, "and you're not making a scene yet. So, so far, everything's alright. You really should eat before drinking more though, Dwayne. Your tolerance for it is almost nothing. Though, you probably would be very cute drunk...as long as you don't take your pants off and dance on the table."

Dwayne nodded...he was hungry too. He looked up as if searching for the waitress. "Where's that waitress? I'm hungry?" He was kind of wondering why Kit was so silent though...he didn't forget about him. The interloper.

"I'm sure once they cook the food," Kit said as he looked up from the quiet conversation he and Amy had been carrying on, "they'll bring it out to us. We did just order though." He gave Amy's hand a squeeze and offered her a consoling look.

Dwayne looked at Kelli as something she'd said registered in his head. "Oh, I won't take my pants off." He leaned in closer to her and whispered, "I'm not wearing anything underneath them," as though that wasn't very apparent to her as it was. Apparently when he was drunk, he was slow on the uptake.

"I noticed," Kelli said with a smile. "But it's okay. We can take your pants off later, just not in public. You want some water? Or maybe some coffee?"

"Coffee sounds good..." He leaned his body against the back of the booth. It was suddenly a little warm for him...and his stomach started to heave...he muttered, "excuse me, I'm gonna go look for a bathroom," then he leaped from the booth and headed to the front door...

"Please," Kelli said, "just keep your pants on and don't do anything naughty on someone's shoes." She looked up at Amy and Kit with an apologetic expression. "I...I wish I'd known. I wouldn't have let him drink."

"Maybe he was so worried about impressing you," Amy reasoned, "that he needed a drink to loosen up."

Kelli smiled. "When he gets back, I'll have to let him know he doesn't have to do anything to impress me. I'm already impressed."

Amy chuckled in disbelief. "Impressed by what? All I've seen of him lately is a disrespectful, bitter man. Sure, he's tried to redeem himself, but he's not the person I knew before."

Kelli sighed. "I don't know what it is," she said.

"I'll give you a hint," Kit said. "Watch him next time he looks at me. He doesn't like me being here. I imagine if I were to leave, you'd see a change."

"If you leave, I leave," Amy told him.

Kit raised an eyebrow at her. "You want to leave?" he asked. "We can always come back another time for the music. I don't think the double date thing is working with Dwayne. I don't think he's interested in a double date right now anyway." He looked at Kelli. "It'd give you guys some time alone, and it'd allow you to figure out what his problem is. I've heard that having your pants too tight in the crotch will do that."

Amy snickered and leaned her head upon Kit's shoulder. "Maybe Kelli can relieve him of them later...."

"I just hope he doesn't cut the circulation off," Kelli said.

Kit raised Amy's hand to his lips and gave her thumb a kiss. "Maybe things will be better after food," he said. "Or, we can just tell him we're going to give him some time alone with Kel when he gets back. I don't think we should disappear on him, even though it sounds like a great idea."

"Maybe we can after, though," Amy whispered to Kit, smiling fondly at him. "For a walk...you know?"

"Sure," Kit said with a smile. "I'd like to swing down by the pier to see if those little duck things are still there. They were very cute. All fuzzy, and making that chirping sound. It was the funniest thing when they'd bob under the water and pop back up. But, yes, a walk will be nice later."

Amy giggled gently and returned her head to his shoulder.

***

He hadn't quite made it to a bathroom, but he did make it to some bushes before he puked. And Kelli would be happy, he didn't get it on anyone else by him. He'd never felt so bad in his life. His grandmother had never let him have alcohol. 'Alcohol is the Devil's brew, stay away from it,' she used to say. He couldn't understand why it was such a big deal for him to drink when the rest of his classmates had gone out and returned drunk. They always said he was a 'momma's' boy, even though it was just his grandmother and not his mother. He felt they'd been right, but he still didn't go out and get drunk, or even laid. Not till recently. But he'd made his bed, now he was going to lie in it...as his abuela would say to him.

He finally managed to brush the bile from his pants. Good thing they were stain and soak proof, or he'd be in big trouble. He needed to do something to change and now. He'd hurt Amy, his best friend...he'd ignored Kit, someone who was trying to be his friend, and hopefully he wouldn't do anything to push Kelli away, and yet, he was afraid what he had been doing lately would do that. Well, no more...he then groaned, In the morning, I'll be sweet in the morning.

He finally returned, a little emptier but a lot more sober. He approached their table and glanced down at his hands. "I owe you, all of you, an apology."

Amy smiled facetiously. "And whatever for, Dwayne?"

Dwayne looked at her. "Don't be catty, Amy, it doesn't become you," he said, the words spoken low and serious., "And I owe you an apology, Kelli, for behaving so badly. Amy, I owe you one because I expected to have the both of you to myself.and you, Kit, because, well, I haven't been the nicest person since you joined the party...and I'm sorry."

"Well...you should be," Amy told him stubbornly. "We just wanted to have fun with you, Dwayne. This isn't supposed to be about possessiveness and jealousy." She nudged his arm with an elbow. "Besides," she confided, "I'm Kit's date tonight. You should just focus on Kelli."

He smiled. "I think I can handle that," he said.

"Yeah," Kit said. "You'd better, or I will." He waggled his eyebrows at Kelli in a manner that was far more comical than suggestive.

Dwayne caught on to what Kit was saying, and what he was meaning. He laughed, "Oh, I don't think so, friend..." He put an arm around Kelli's shoulders. "You have your date, I have mine."

Kit chuckled and then looked at Amy. "Yeah, I do, don't I? Well, I say we eat that food, then listen to some of this music, and after that...you two are on your own. Amy and I have plans."

She propped her shoulder against his fondly and grinned. "Big plans...."

Smiling happily at Kit and Amy, Kelli turned to Dwayne. "So, have big plans for us, my dear?" she asked, then leaned close and added in a whisper, "It's alright if you don't. I'm sure we can think of something."

He leaned in and whispered, "Beyond the gift and dinner, I hadn't planned further than that." He leaned his forehead to hers. "But I'm sure we'll come up with something, just as you said."

As if on cue, the waitress arrived with their food. Hungry for the delectable delights the planet had to offer, they all dug in immediately. The crisis had been averted and they still had the entire night before them, and so far, it promised to be a memorable one.

---

"Secret Agendas On Dinner Plates"
By: Captain Matt Salinger
Lieutenant Xayella Tagliesh
Raj Daheel
Der-Raj Monil

Location: Castari Alpha
Stardate 57911.01, 19h30

***

The presence of the Federation starship was at once good and bad. Visits from outsiders were always welcome, as they brought news from far off. The visit from the USS Sulu was no different from many of the other potential visitors they could receive. Castari always greeted its guests with open arms, encouraging them to enjoy the bounties the planet had to offer. Genetically mingling with offworlders, however, was strictly forbidden.

Der-raj Monil frowned, an expression that was very characteristic of him. Few could say that they had seen him smile in their lifetimes. "The captain and his companion will be here within minutes," he said. "Are we certain we wish to continue this dinner, considering the news we have received?"

"I believe this is a fortunate coincidence, Der-Raj," Daheel replied. "With the Captain in our presence, we may approach him about the incident in an unconfrontational atmosphere. There is no need to start a war, Der-Raj."

"Oh, I do not wish for a war with them," Monil said, allowing his colleague one of his rare smiles. "I only wish to get to the bottom of this. If one of our people has been impregnated by an alien, imagine the public outcry. We have spent our entire lives seeking to preserve the escha, I don't wish to fail now."

"Nor do I," the Raj agreed. "Thousands of years of hard work cannot be wasted because of one creature's indiscretion." He sighed. "I hope the captain understands."

The thick, heavy doors of the hall were pushed open by two attendants who barely seemed strong enough to do so. Flanked by Matt and Xay, Metah bowed low to his leaders. "Federation Captain Matthew Salinger and his lovely mate, Lieutenant Xayella Tagliesh."

Matt cast a meaningful glance in Metah's direction, though he had a feeling the excitable Faelen wouldn't pick up the hint. As Matt and Xay entered, the planet's leaders came immediately into view. Matt bowed low, though not quite as obsequiously as Metah. "Raj Daheel, Der-Raj Monil, it is good to see you once again. May I introduce you to my companion, Xayella Tagliesh. She is the Chief of Sciences aboard my ship, and chief in my heart as well."

Xayella exhaled a snort at his trite remark, but covered it by clearing her throat. "It's an honour." She bowed her head reverently, as per Matt's instructions.

"We welcome both of you." Daheel spread his arms, gesturing to the vacant seats across from the two Rajs. "It is our pleasure to host this dinner for you, Captain." He shot a furtive glance in Monil's direction. "There is much to discuss...."

"Oh?" Matt said, but it was clear the discussion would wait. He escorted Xay to her chair and pulled it out for her to sit. "I'm looking forward to the food tonight," he continued. "Everything I've sampled so far has been truly amazing." Once Xay was seated, he took his own and gave her hand a squeeze beneath the table.

"It would seem your people are fond of sampling the...delights our planet has to offer," Daheel commented. The particular phrasing of his statement alluded to something more meaningful in its subtext. "Are your people not fond of practicing restraint then, Captain?"

Xayella cocked an eyebrow at Matt.

"I don't believe I understand what you're referring to, Raj Daheel," Matt said. "Has something happened that I'm not aware of?"

At this point, Metah made his hasty, yet furtive escape.

"Ah, here we are!" Daheel summoned forward a line of white-robed men and women, all balancing gleaming, silver platters on their hands. "I hope you enjoy the meal, Captain. It was specially prepared for this occasion."

As the servers arranged the trays upon the table, Xayella leaned in towards Matt and smiled. "Looks like someone's being evasive," she muttered.

"Very," Matt said softly. "I don't like the direction this is taking. I don't think it'll get dangerous, but...I don't like the evasion."

"Neither do I." Xayella grinned and the glint in her eyes warned Matt that she was about to behave impetuously. "Excuse me, Rajs," she spoke aloud, smiling prettily at the two men, "would it be too much trouble to ask you, sirs, to clarify your previous statement for us?" She chuckled demurely. "We aren't always the most discerning of people, Rajs; I'm afraid we've missed your meaning."

"It appears that your people," Der-Raj Monil said icily, "have no qualms about meeting an alien species and taking them into their beds immediately. I would think that a species that travels the stars could conceive of the ramifications of such careless behaviour."

"What the Der-Raj means," Daheel interjected gently, "is that we have certain laws, Captain...and we had thought your people would respect those."

"And which laws are these?" Matt asked, concern obvious in his look. "I don't know if we were made aware of them. Whatever we can do to make amends, then we shall."

"Which crewmember was it?" Xayella piped up. "I mean...if it was a human officer, is that really a problem?"

Der-Raj Monil narrowed his eyes at her. "Without the proper tests, the proper precautions and assessments, yes it is a problem. Despite our similarities, there are distinct genetic differences between our peoples. To mingle, it would be unthinkable."

"Especially with that monstrosity," Daheel added without rancor, but instead with clear disdain. "How can you serve with such things, Captain?"

"Which such things are those, Raj Daheel?" Matt asked. "I'm aware of no monstrosities amongst my crew."

"That...fellow," he said, gesturing to his ears. "The little impish creature."

Xayella burst into laughter. "Marp!? Marp laid with a real woman? Never thought that would happen...."

Monil frowned. "You find this amusing," he said. "It is a tragedy, a travesty."

"Whatever we can do to make amends," Matt said. "Honestly, though, we weren't made aware of any difficulties until after the fact. My crew would never do something they knew was wrong, especially at the risk of breaking planetary taboos."

"Besides," Xayella interjected once again, "it's not as if they're even compatible...at least not without serious medical intervention."

"That is not the point, Lieutenant Tagliesh," Daheel stated firmly. "It is the precedent that such an incident - if exposed to the greater public - will set. Next, we will have Chawla attempting to mate with Norkrck. There will only be disorder if that happens, Captain."

"I will speak with my crew at once," Matt said. "There will be no more incidents like this, I assure you, Raj and Der-Raj. Now that we are aware of this situation, we will make certain it does not happen again."

"Wait a minute," Xayella interjected. The Rajs seemed to be growing exasperated by Xayella's frequent interruptions, but they simply shifted in their seats to express their irritation. "Did you say the Chawla and Norkrck don't intermingle?" Xayella watched them with large, stunned eyes. "Your entire population is segregated...purposefully?"

"That is correct," Monil answered. "Obviously it is not that way on your worlds. There are several genetically anomalous members of your crew, are there not?"

"Anomalous in what way?" she asked. "Anomalous in that they don't look like the captain and I?"

"Interbred species," Monil said in a way that gave the impression that even the words had a foul taste. "Impure matings that produce impure offspring, a mingling of genetic materials that weakens the whole."

Xay smiled wryly. "That's a very 20th century earth view, Der-Raj. Are you certain you haven't encountered Terran history before? Such archaic concepts can only truly be found in our history books."

"I think," Daheel answered levelly, "we are being insulted, Monil."

"I believe we are," Monil replied, his icy gaze leveled at Xayella. "Not very diplomatic of them, to be sure. I had figured their manners would be...more refined."

"Our manners?" she scoffed. "You're the chauvinists!"

"Xayella, please," Matt said, sparing her a glance before turning his attention fully on the Rajs. "We mean no offense. We will respect your wishes and desires for your people. It's just that...in our society, such feelings were once held by many, but we...we grew beyond that, accepting each other for our merits, and letting the genetics sort itself out. That was the best solution for us. Please, do not think that we are trying to change your society, we do not wish that. We have a policy of non-interference in matters such as this. Our people will be instructed on the proper behaviour amongst your people, and we will not have a repeat of what happened last night. I assure you, there will be no such mingling between my crew and your people."

"It seems too late for that, Captain," Daheel stated. "We wish to speak with the offending crew member, if we may."

"I'm afraid that's not yet possible," Matt answered. "Ensign Marp is the pilot for the expedition that left for the nebula earlier this morning."

Daheel smirked. "How convenient for this Ensign Marp, Captain."

Matt narrowed his eyes at the Raj. "Do you believe we deliberately planned this, Raj? Are you accusing us of setting up this incident and then sending the offender away?"

"Not at all," the Raj answered smarmily. "We Castari are not that imaginative in our thinking. I was simply stating that Ensign Marp has fortune on his side, it would seem."

"This is going downhill fast," Xayella murmured to Matt. "I don't want to sit here for very much longer."

"I know," Matt whispered. "Raj Daheel, what is it you wish for us to do? If you want the Sulu to leave, just give me time to get our ship back in shape to break orbit and we'll find another planet on which to make repairs. We have no desire to further strain relations between our peoples."

"There is no strain, I assure you, Captain." Daheel sighed. "This is a very delicate subject for us. You must understand we've spent centuries establishing our planet's customs. To have them corrupted by one careless individual...?" He shook his head solemnly.

"In the future," Matt said, "you may be able avoid situations like this if you make certain the visitors to your planet are aware of this delicate subject. Had we been notified that such liaisons were frowned upon, we wouldn't be having this discussion now."

"It isn't something we like to admit, Captain," Daheel explained. "You might think us...archaic."

Matt shrugged. "Then, if you don't tell people that intermingling is discouraged, how do you expect them to know that? And, incidentally, perhaps you should speak with your own people as well. It does take two, after all, unless you're accusing my crew of forcing your people against their will..."

"The woman has already been dealt with," Daheel informed Matt coolly. "We would speak to this Marp when he returns." And as if sharing one mind, both Daheel and Monil rose. "I'm afraid there is a council meeting we must attend. Please, remain here and enjoy yourselves."

Xayella snorted and muttered, "Too late for that."

Matt quickly cast a quelling glance in Xay's direction as he stood. "Hopefully we can have a more peaceful meal at another time," he said, then bowed to both Rajs.

"Perhaps, Captain Salinger," Monil said with a slight incline of his head, and then he started off toward the exit.

"Matt," Xay whispered harshly as the men moved out of earshot. "We're leaving this planet...now! Things are beginning to resemble Risa a little too closely and we both know how that ended."

"We can't leave yet," Matt said. "Not until the ship is spaceworthy again. Lt. Thaine has the warp engines offline, and it'll take time to get them back. I'll ask him to expedite his repair schedule, and I'll solicit help from any member of the crew who can wield a spanner, including myself. As soon as we're ready to fly, we will. There's a lot they're not telling us, and I'm really beginning to hate secrets."

"Beginning?" she quipped weakly, then leaned in closer to Matt for what little comfort proximity could provide. "I hate shore leave," she sulked.

Matt slipped an arm around her and kissed the top of her head. "One day, we'll actually manage to have an uneventful shore leave, one where nothing happens at all. We have to hope for that, and...and we may actually get it someday."

"If we live to," she added sardonically. "I wish Metah had never woken us." Her grin returned as she eagerly looked up at Matt. "We can just go back to sleep and forget about all this."

"I happen to like that idea very much," Matt said. "Come on, and this time, I'm putting a guard on the front door."

Xayella sighed as they departed, still rattled by revelations made that evening. The Castari were looking less and less like the carefree, civilized beings they had initially been portrayed as. Those who put on masks always had something to hide and were the most dangerous in the end. Xayella wanted off Castari Prime fast, and would repair the ship herself to do so if she had to, no matter how fervently Thaine protested. It was a matter of survival.

---

"Missing You"
By: Lt.Commander Benedict T'Kal

Location: Personal Quarters, USS Sulu
Stardate: 57911.01, 23h00

***

Benedict sat on one end of the sofa in his quarters, one leg under the other, one foot dangling on the floor. He was dressed in a loose shirt of Bajoran design, open at the neck, sleeved rolled up, loose cotton trousers with his hair loose and flowing over his shoulders. His twelve stringed guitar sat across his lap as he idly picked the notes and adjusted the keys to tune it by ear. An experimental chord or two, an adjustment...and he played the start of a song that was intricate; fingers dancing on the strings and the music was just so and he stopped, satisfied that the instrument was tuned.

He smiled to himself, and closed his eyes. The melody ran through his mind a few times, but it didn't sound right so he played it through twice and altered it as he played until he knew that it was something like what he wanted. Slow and soft, like the ripples of a wave; he liked that imagery and so he added an echo to it, almost as if there was rain falling. His fingers emphasised each drop with a louder note and the ripples spread as the notes softened only to come back and it turned into a heart-like beat.

Irregular rain drops...a counter beat...and he delved for the words that would match the music and the rain reminded him of tears...and he saw the face of Tayla...her sad smile...and her own tears... She'd cried enough.

"Your tears, my Love... are like the summer rain... they fall as diamonds from your eyes... and every one...is precious."

Intricate melody and the sound of his voice filled his quarters, a rich and velvet soft addition to the new song that had been brought out of him...and he held her image in his mind's eye as he sang.

"When I'm missing you... as I am this night... I close my eyes and see your face. Amber lights in darkest depths... The stars that steer my course... When I'm missing you."

"When I'm missing you... I close my eyes and feel your touch Passionate as love's caress. Warmth of kisses...tenderness When I'm missing you."

"As I am... tonight."

He continued to play, humming along to the new tune...and smiling. It had been almost a year since he'd been able to create a new song...and this one was for Tayla. Benedict ordered the computer to commence recording and then he started to play again, adding to the music and firming its structure and then...

"This is for you, Love," he said as the notes sounded and then he started to sing once more...and when it was finished he said, "Goodnight, Tay. I love you." He ordered the computer to cease recording and send the message to the Gagarin...personal for the attention of Commander Lyrr Tayla.

Message sent, the computer replied.

Benedict put down his guitar and looked out of the view port at the stars. She was out there in a nebula. He just wished that she had stayed with him...he wouldn't get much sleep this night. He turned in after that; and laid in the dark for a while and thought of her. With a smile on his face and a feeling of peace, he drifted off to sleep.

---