Lieutenant Klaus was finishing his conversation with Commander Nganga when the Sickbay doors behind him opened.

Doctor Jayngo looked up and saw the Lieutenant in the corridor and motioned him over. "Good morning. What can I do for you today?"

"Doctor Jayngo? Lieutenant Christopher Klaus. I was just on my way to speak with you."

Jayngo moved around the desk, extending his hand to the Security Chief. "Pleasure to meet you, sir. What can I do for you?"

Klaus intercepts his hand with a firm shake. "Doctor, one of my duties is to inspect all items that come aboard. Whether it is via sensors or by hand, I must know if anything poses a danger to the crew or the ship. For whatever reason, the contents of your bag could not be identified by the security scanners. May I ask to see the contents of that bag?"

"Oh, of course." Jayngo smiles broadly. "I should have realized that the bag would give you problems. I used to be in security my self, what seems like a lifetime ago. The bag was replicated on my planet, and therefore is made of a bit more dense material." Jayngo reaches down and gently places the bag on his desk.

"Security you say?" Klaus thought this conversation was just getting interesting. "Was that before your Starfleet career?"

"Actually, it was the beginning of my Starfleet career. Got shoehorned in because of my abilities." Jayngo reached into his bag and pulled out a three-fold picture frame made out of Atlarian steel. "I had really wanted to be a doctor from the beginning though. Returned to the academy after the war to enter medical."

"May I see that?" Jayngo hefts it into Klaus' right hand. The sheer weight almost caused Klaus to drop it. "It's lovely. But why is it so heavy?" Klaus then opened his scanner and started to inspect the item.

"Mainly due to the metal it was made out of. I made it in ninth grade. Used steel native to my home planet."

The metal scans to be six times more dense than normal steel.

"Very impressive." Klaus returns the item to the table gently. The security chief then began to examine the inside of the bag. "Where were you stationed when you were in security?"

"The U.S.S. Desperado. Worked day-shift in security, then nights in the sick bay." The bag is filled with knickknacks of the same caliber as the frame, all made out of very dense materials.

Klaus' scanner concurred. Multiple objects made of Altarian steel. "Very well doctor. You and I should have a drink sometime and swap security stories. Right now, I have to get to the transporter room."

"Oh, that sounds fantastic. I will also need to schedule the routine medical exam. When would be a good time for you? You're going to be very busy over the next couple of days. I'll be more than happy to work around your schedule."

Klaus grumbled to himself. He knew he should have sent one of his subordinates. Maybe he could stall... "I will have to get back to you on that, Doctor. We are going to have some dignitaries come aboard and I must make preparations for their arrival."

"Understood. Just when you get a few moments. Shouldn't take very long. Just give me a few moments notice to get everything in order. But remember, the sooner the better." Jayngo's smiled once more, instantly instilling confidence and appreciation.

"Very good, Doctor." The ploy worked! Or did it? Klaus could see that Doctor Jayngo was very insightful. Such talents certainly helped him a great deal during his security and medical careers. Klaus made a mental note to delve into his service record a little deeper. "Good day to you Doctor."

"Good day, Lieutenant. I'll look forward to meeting with you again soon." Jayngo began to return the items to the bag to take to his quarters.

Replacing the scanner in his belt, Klaus left sickbay and proceeded towards the Turbolift.

With that, his conversation with Mr. Klaus was complete, and Commander Nganga turned back to the more recent arrival. "Thank you for waiting, Mr. Skepti."

He looked over the man. It was an odd case. He was a civilian working for Starfleet, but not in Starfleet. But he was in charge of the Arcade, so...

"Our first mission will be to transport several dignitaries to a conference. Given the nature of our ship, it is likely that they will be spending a lot of time in the Civilian Arcade, so the sooner you know the better I think. There are both Bajorans and Cardassians on the manifest. And hearing that a member of the Obsidian Order was spotted in the civilian docking area. Well, it gives us cause to be concerned. Please be prepared to co-operate with Lieutenant Klaus about the security arrangements."

Skepti shove his right hand into the pocket of his bomber jacket and nods. ::Dismissal if I ever heard one.:: "Will do, Commander. I 'spose I'll get to the Arcade, then." Skepti begins to move towards the exit as the newest arrivals from the transporter file towards the exit.

Jayngo repacked his belongings into his dufflebag. He saw the look on the Security Chief's face when he mentioned the exam; he recognized it right off the bat. Klaus was going to be a difficult one to get into sick bay. But that wasn't abnormal. Even with modern medical advances, people still hated to visit the doctor. It seemed especially prevalent in security, command and medical personnel. It was probably a fear of mortality and blissfulness in being unaware. But he had a job to do, and it would get done in time.

He momentarily debated going in search of his quarters, as he never did get taken there, but instead pulled back the chair of his desk and sat down. The standard issue seat quietly moaned under the pressure. :: I will need to put in a requisition for a sturdier chair. I am sure there will be days that I'll want to just collapse for a few, and I can't have it deciding to break at that moment. :: He activated the computer console in front of him and called up a crew manifest to begin scheduling appointments. While the groups he thought of before where particularly hesitant to visit, people in general didn't relish being called in by the doctor. With the exception of Ensign Aeth. But her reasons were obvious.

After several minutes of work, Jayngo had broken the crew down into departments, realigning his thought process to accept the fact that there was also a Board Walk crew of civilians that he would have to fit in as well. He also checked according to work rotation, figuring it would be easier to assign them appointments while on duty rather than taking their personal time, with the exceptions of Engineering and Security. Both departments were going to be very busy until the ship was actually well under way. He would save those departments for last. He moved the medical staff to the front of the list, including Councilor Dekelley - :: That's Rory :: - he told himself. He figured that the councilor could give him his psych review at the same time as the physical. Then the two could work together on the rest of them.

He no sooner entered in the name Yures Kuehl as the doors to sick bay opened again and a bajoran male stepped through wearing blue. He was carrying a medical tricorder on his belt, along with several supplies in his arms. "Good morning," Jayngo said though his smile.

The Lt.J.G. jumped slightly and looked into the office. "Good morning, sir. I didn't realize that you would be in already. I was hoping to get a few more things prepared before your arrival."

"Not to worry. Ended up coming here directly. Had a slight mishap with a yeoman. Had to fix a hernia. Pleasure to meet you ..." Jayngo looked back down at his screen, taking note of the man's personal history. "Is it Mr. Yures, or Mr. Kuehl?"

"Mr. Kuehl, actually. Though thank you for asking, instead of just assuming. Take after my father's side in that regard." Jayngo noted the ear ring; that he did follow some of his mother's traditions as well. "You must be Doctor Jayngo."

"Just call me Jayngo. Titles aren't important among friends."

"Well then, call me Yures. A pleasure to meet you too. Is everything up to your specifications?"

"Oh, very much so." The doctor stood again, with the chair letting off a whine of relief. Jayngo and Yures exchanged a look, and smiled.

"I'll get you a new chair ordered right away."

"No need to put yourself out. I could take care of it."

"That's OK. I'm hear to help you out."

"Thank you." Jayngo could tell all ready that the young man was going to work out well. "I'm working on putting together a first exam schedule. I have put you down for 1230 hours. I want to get all of the medical staff out of the way first. Then we can work our way through the rest of the crew."

"Fine by me. I'm going to go ahead and put these things away. Just give me a yell if you need me." With that, the bajoran headed into sick bay.

Jayngo next filled in the command crew, setting them up for later that afternoon and into the early evening. Everyone was scheduled to be aboard within the next 48 hours, but he wanted to give them enough time to get settled before having to brave the sick bay. He did, however, take note that the Captain was listed as aboard. The Commander hadn't said anything, but there was no reason for him to. :: Garman, huh. That's a new one. Better put ... :: he double-checked the records, :: ... her towards the bottom of the list so I can do some research. ::

Filling them in one-by-one, he lined up the Board Walk and Science for the following day, and then Engineering and Security once they were underway. He made sure to put Klaus at the very end of the list. He noticed the medical report on the Board Walk manager - Skepti - and allotted an extended session for him. He was also pleasantly surprised to find T'Vala on the list as Chief Tactical. Noting that she had yet to board, he had the computer make note to inform him of her arrival.

Yures had left again by the time Jayngo had finished the schedule, shipping a copy off to Dekelley for confirmation before sending it out to the crew. He didn't think anything of the door hissing open again until a female form was standing in front of him. He looked up to see Ensign Aeth standing before him. :: She's persistent, I'll give her that. :: "What can I do for you?"

"Well, doctor, I thought I'd come in for my physical now."

"Call me Jayngo. Is there anything wrong?"

"Well," she smiled, "there is a certain tightness of breath when I do this." She placed both of her elbows together behind her back, accentuating her chest.

"I would have to recommend you not do that, then." He had taken a few seconds to glance through her profile while setting up the appointments. He knew what he was dealing with a little better now.

Her smile turned into a playful frown as she put her hands together in front and leaned in front of him on the desk. "What's the matter, Jayngo? Do I make you uncomfortable?"

"Not in the slightest. Actually, it seems the only person you are making uncomfortable is yourself. Why don't you have a seat?" She leaned backward and slid into the chair behind her. "May I be honest with you, Ensign Aeth?"

"Call me Nik."

"OK, Nik. Here's the thing. You are a very beautiful woman, and I'm very flattered."

She looked at him questioningly. "Your not ..."

He smiled. "No. However, there are two things that are bothering me. Number one is the forthrightness at which you make your intentions known."

"I'm the type of girl who knows what she wants as goes after it."

"Understood. But I'm what my people call a contemporary man. My race had to do several things to ensure its survival, including taking on many partners often to ensure a population growth. I, however, will be looking for a long-term relationship."

She looked at him as if he were speaking a foreign language.

"And secondly, I would end up hurting you."

This, she thought she understood. "That's OK, Doc. All relationships are about chance. If it didn't work out, we move on."

"That's not what I meant. I mean I could cause you serious injury. Case studies of Atlarians mating with other races have proven to cause injury when not careful."

"Oh." She looked at him half unbelieving, half intrigued.

"You are a woman with great potential as an individual, and as an officer. I look forward to the opportunity to get to know you, both as a person and as a friend, if you'll allow me."

"Are you sure you're not ..."

"Positive."

"All right then." She seemed a bit dumbfounded, as if not expecting the visit to turn out this way. "Friends. I guess I can try that out. I'm up for anything once."

"In celebration, let me buy you a nonalcoholic drink in ten-forward. There is a great drink from home that you would love. We can drop my bag off at my quarters," he once more picked up his duffle with one hand, the tank stand with the other, "and this at yours for the water lily, and we can go."

"Lead the way, Jayngo. I'm all yours." She smiled as he headed out the door, mumbling under her breath as she watched him walk from behind. "Friends. I guess I can handle that for now."

Security at the Utopia Planitia Fleet yards was tight, yet Retlev, the former Cardassian obsidian order agent had almost been able to penetrate it. His name and identity had been divulged as a war criminal to the Federation as part of the Dominion's peace negotiations. He was intelligent and crafty. Although he had come to Mars unarmed, he had managed to cobble together a crude disruptor from parts, bartered, borrowed, or stolen. His only mistake had been coincidence, when he had met his former associate Calvin Skepti. Skepti had called for an unscheduled beam out, and security procedure required the fleet yard to run a routine scan that revealed Retlev's position.

A dozen security officers chased after the caged Cardassian, but they had too be careful to avoid their worst fear of civilian casualties. He was using his disruptor, indiscriminately destroying equipment and vehicles. Only pure luck had kept casualties from happening. Luck that was bound to run out. Transporter officers scrambled to get a lock on his position, but he had either a pattern scrambler and/or transport inhibitor on his person. A lock was impossible. Force fields flew up before the fleeing Cardassian, but he managed to overload EPS conduits and lower the fields before security could apprehend him.

The Starfleet officers had time and home field advantage on their side. Soon they had him surrounded, and he had only one resort left. He took a hostage, an elderly Vulcan advisor from the Science Academy. He shouted threats at the security officers and at his hostage. They could not let him flee, nor could they negotiate. As it would turn out they did not need to, all had underestimated to old Vulcan. He moved with the skill and athleticism of an Olympic athlete. He disarmed the Cardassian and managed a nerve pinch before the villain could react.

Now, the Cardassian was being interrogated. He was too well conditioned he would not talk. Someone would have to take other measures.

David continued his leisurely stroll down the Utopia Planitia corridor. The extension actually ran along the exterior of the shipyards, allowing him to gaze out at the on-going projects through the windows. From his current vantage, he could see the Cochrane in its dock, spotlights trained on the hull as last-minute teams checked over its structure.

**Hmmm, wonder if the captain's taking an inspection tour …** David leaned forward, his hands pressed against the glass as he tried to get a better glimpse of the vessel. **Nope, don't see anything**

Continuing his walk, David checked his chronometer, and quickened his pace. **I should at least "look" like I'm busy** Since David had left the Rec Room, what should have been a five minute walk had easily become thirty as he took plenty of unnecessary detours. **Spent enough of my life aboard starships already, don't need to hurry over to see sterile hallways and cramped quarters. Just give me some color and open air.**

David was no longer sure if his antagonism was genuine, or just a knee- jerk reaction from his crummy upbringing. **Something I can talk to the counselor about … okay, maybe not** David thought as he smirked. The last thing he needed was for some know-it-all to tell him what he thought, and that Starfleet was A-Okay. **Besides, as long as I do my job, what I think isn't any of his business. It's not like he can read minds, or anything**

With a final resigned sigh, David proceeded to the transporter room. Six crewmen were fading away before him while a "hmmmm" ringed in his ears. As the next group took their stations atop the pads, an Ensign wearing a gold jumpsuit approached David. "I'm Ensign Carter. Can I get your name, please?" He seemed entirely too pleased to be assigned such a drudge job.

"David Paxton"

Punching his name into a portable datapad, the Ensign looked up. "Yes, Ensign Paxton. Welcome. I see you're assigned to the bridge crew … Commander Nganga will be pleased to know that his helmsman is arriving. I believe Lt. Norallah is currently manning the bridge … we'll let her know you're beaming over now. She'll consult with the commander and let you know if you have any immediate responsibilities you should attend to."

**What, I don't even get to move in and unpack before being put to work?** David kept himself from rolling his eyes, and forced a smile to his face. "Thanks," he said noncommittally as he stepped aside, awaiting his turn. The cheery (**too cheery**) Ensign Carter continued registering new arrivals. Another Ensign standing behind the controls (**she looks familiar … where've I seen her face before?**) ran her fingers up the board. With a flash of light, six more crewmen were ripped into millions of particles and transmitted to the Cochrane.

When it was his turn, David trudged up the steps to the pad, five other people right behind him. Turning around, he watched the young ensign (**At the Academy, maybe?**) program in her information, before sending them into temporary limbo. Trying to place her face, David was unprepared when she glanced up briefly and met his stare. Caught, David averted his eyes as the familiar, high-pitched "hmmm" invaded his senses. Taking a last look back before he lost his vision, he noticed what could have been a slight smile on her downturned face as she regarded the controls.

While the transporters resumed their busy work of transporting more of the crew onto the Cochrane, the situation with the Obsidian Order agent being spotted troubled Nganga. He had no idea how cooperative Skepti would actually be with Klaus. And ultimately, he was only the first officer. Once the captain arrived, it would be his decision how to handle things.

"Salex, do we have an ETA for the Captain?" Commander Nganga asked, turning away from Mr. Skepti.

"Captain Starkin's shuttle is scheduled to be making the inspection tour now, sir." said the efficient young Vulcan.

"Commander, are you acquainted with the Captain?" asked Counselor Dekelley, picking up the first officer's thoughts.

"I... I think so. Several years ago, when I was the Chief Engineer on Deep Space Two, there was a Starkin on one of the ships that made regular supply runs. He sat in on our poker games half a dozen times. Went with him to the O-Club a few times. I think he said he was a Garman, but that was a long time ago."

"You may be able to recognize the Garmans by their skin tone," said Salex. "My understanding is that Garmans have copper based blood, like the Vulcans and the Romulans, but in their case it gives them a somewhat greenish complexion."

"Here I thought it was the food on DS2." Nganga replied.

"But sir, wouldn't you have been eating standard replicated food?"

"He was joking, Mr. Salex," Rory said. Salex managed to both squint (cringing one eyebrow) and raise the other eyebrow at the same time.

The transporters pad lit up as six more crewmembers carrying various pieces of luggage and equipment.

Nganga continued, "Then... why don't Vulcans have green skin?"

"A few do, though it's very faint. For the most part however, the Vulcan form of melanin blocks it out."

Glancing at the back of his hand, Nganga replied, "Understood."

As the doors opened to the departing crewmen, a dark haired woman worked her way though the people into the room.

"Well then," Dekelley said as Salex prepared to beam aboard the next set of people, "hopefully that will make it easy for us to recognize the Captain when he comes on board."

"I certainly hope it does."

The officers and Skepti turned towards the newcomer. The woman's skin had a slight green tint to it, as did her dark hair's highlights. Her Starfleet uniform's inner jumpsuit bore the red colour of command. She wore a slightly amused smile on her face and four pips on her collar.

There was a brief silence in the air. Perhaps they were too surprised. Perhaps they didn't recognize her after all. Perhaps they just didn't know what to say. Rather than let things get too awkward for too long, the woman stepped forward with I smile, "We haven't all been introduced. I'm Captain Starkin. I'm looking forward to working with you."

"And I you, Captain," David Nganga said, straightening his back somewhat. "I'm Commander David Nganga." He then gestured to Rory, "This is Counselor Dekelley, and Ensign Salex." The Vulcan bowed slightly as Nganga gestured his way.

Skepti turned towards the woman as she strode in from his spot near the exit among the most recent arrivals. His grizzled features screwed into a grimace as she moved over towards the other commanding officers of the Cochrane.

Nganga turned to the charming fellow trying to elbow his way out, "This is Calvin Skepti, our Arcade Manager."

"It's a pleasure." with an extended hand.

Skepti replied with a short grunt.

::Oh, this should be fun...:: But before Uriell could respond, Mr. Klaus entered the transporter room. He recognized Skepti immediately, but his attention quickly turned from the Boardwalk Manager to the Captain. He cleared his throat, "Captain, your arrival was not scheduled until 2000 hours."

With a small smile, "Captain's prerogative." Dekelley did not read his captain, but decided the unannounced arrival was only partially playful, the Captain was testing her crew.

The first officer's communicator chipped, =^= Bridge to Commander Nganga. =^=

"Mr. Salex, you may resume with your duties," Starkin said quietly. He nodded and activated the control panel.

Nganga tapped his communicator pin, "Go ahead."

The room gradually solidified around David Paxton as the ringing in his ears subsided. (**Yea, it's a transporter room, all right …**) Given the hype surrounding the Cochrane project, David had half expected something special, but so far (**well, this room, at least**) the ship looked just like any other Starship interior.

The soft voice from the bridge continued, =^= We are receiving reports from fleet yard security. There was some commotion and disruptor fire; no reported casualties. They've captured a Cardassian believed to be part of the Obsidian Order. =^=

The commander had a grave expression on his face, "Understood, I'll inform Mr. Klaus. Nganga out." He nodded to the chief of security.

Taking a moment to get his bearings, D.J. stood still to regain his equilibrium while the crewmen he had beamed over with began dismounting from the pad and leaving to their duties. Down by the controls, he noticed a Vulcan Ensign, and four officers on the floor: Lieutenant, (**gold colors, uptight … looks like security**), Lt. Commander, (**blue colors … the ship's Doctor, maybe?**), Commander (**so, that's Nganga … yea, he looks like a work-aholic**), and … (**Is that the captain? Here? Didn't realize I was so important**) he thought, controlling a smirk.

David slowly stepped down from the transporter pad, knowing he should introduce himself (**after all, I report directly to two of them**), but not wanting to interrupt their conversation.

Skepti turned and nudged the nearest person, an ensign by the looks of him. "Quit yer gawkin'. Let's move along now."

Counselor Dekelley first felt the anxiety from Mr. Skepti after his arrival, but soon after Mr. Paxton arrived in a similar agitated state. Dekelley made a mental note to add these two to the top of his interview list, but he did not want to press the issue this very public environment.

Before any of her officers could speak again, the captain suggested, "Perhaps we could move this meeting to my ready room. Say in one hour." The captain did not need to be a Betaziod to see that Skepti and Paxton had only just arrived.

Nganga nodded, "Agreed."

Dekelley, could feel relief from all the officers present. Nganga had not finalized his final report, Skepti and Paxton had only just arrived, and Klaus wished to speak with Skepti. The captain had just given them an hour to get their act together. He thought :: So the test begins… ::

The officers and boardwalk manager approached the transporter room doors. The security chief, wearing one of his usual hardened expressions, walked close to the boardwalk manager. He addressed the civilian, "May I accompany you to your quarters, I have some questions?" Dekelley and Skepti realized it was not really a request. The counselor almost made a similar request to Paxton, but decide to review Dr. Jayngo physical's schedule first.

As the two left, Starkin knew she'd get an explanation of all that within the hour. She then saw the unsure ensign still lingering near the transporter pad, and her eyes flashed with recognition. "Ensign Paxton," she said. (**Oh man! She DOES know me! I shouldn't have stuck around!**) "I'd like you to join us too."

Her knowing Paxton's name caused both of Nganga's eyebrows to perk up, but the mild surprise that (**What are they saying I did now? Am I in some kind of trouble? Maybe she knows that I'm late!**) "uh.. Yes sir.. I mean, ma'am" he stammered.

Trying to ease his obvious discomfort, Starkin placed a reassuring hand onto his arm. "Relax, Ensign. I just wanted you to meet with the rest of the bridge crew. One hour, in my ready room."

He breathed hard and recomposed himself as he realized he wasn't busted, and a sense of nervous relief washed over him.

"Dismissed."

**Great, not onboard for an hour, and I'm attending meetings. Well, it's not like I can avoid it …**

"Alright," David murmured, taking a quick step towards the door of the transporter room. Suddenly, he remembered his protocol (**well, all those years aboard dad's ship were at least good for something**). "Thank you, Captain."

Before he could be roped into further obligations, or engaged in more conversation, David left the room, not noticing Dekelley's stare and slightly raised eyebrow. (**Could my first beam-over be any more awkward?!**)

Nganga, noticing the Captain's interest in the Ensign, also made a mental note to make a point meet this unknown ensign sometime. He then turned to the captain, "Oh, and in case no one has said it, 'welcome aboard.' I hereby formally turnover command of the U.S.S. Cochrane, NCC- 2069, over to you Captain Starkin."

It was only her years of experience that let Starkin hold back the sense of reckless exuberance she felt. Nonetheless, her joy was practically radiating off of her like a plasma conduit. "Thank you, Commander," she said with a big smile. "I hereby formally accept." The two firmly shook hands. She glanced around and continued, "This is a fine ship you've made Commander. I... WE'll... take good care of it."

"I'm sure we will, Captain." David Nganga said.

"Commander, would you accompany me to the Bridge?" Starkin said. As the Captain, it really wasn't much of a question.

Soon, the captain and first officer were walking to the turbolift that would take them five decks up.

"Bridge," they said in unison as the lift door closed. They grinned.

"Captain, if I may, do you have a brother or cousin who's also in Starfleet? I met a Starkin several years ago. Like you, he was a Garman."

"Tell me, Commander. Did you ever learn to stop squinting with your left eye only when you're bluffing?" the Captain asked.

"Yes, that was right ... Did he tell you about that?"

The Captain just grinned as the turbolift doors opened.

Klaus reflected upon his first introduction to the captain and he and Mr. Skepti approached the turbolift. Security Chiefs don't like surprises of any kind. Now his new captain had not only arrived unscheduled, but was the wrong gender according to her(?) personnel file. He made a mental note to himself to investigate the details of her race further.

Mr. Skepti was another unexpected surprise today. While he expected trouble from the man - his list of priors was taller than the new doctor - he didn't expect anything like the Obsidian order being involved. Klaus had run into those Obsidian operatives during his tour on Cardassia. In his experience you couldn't trust any of them. Without the organization existence since the defeat in the Gamma quadrant, the order had no direction. They became more mercenaries driven by their own sense of loyalty or greed....or both.

He asked himself, "Could it be possible that some who were in the order are now reorganizing? To what end? And why are they talking to Skepti"

Skepti glanced over, "What did you say Lieutenant?"

"Never mind." Klaus replied.

Ensign Paxton continued down the hallway, his thoughts too distracted to pay much attention to the dιcor (**it's all the same, anyway**), or the crewmen he passed. (**How did the Captain recognize me?**) Reflecting, David couldn't remember her ever being on his dad's ship while David was on board … (**and if she never met me before, why would she have pulled up my file to know what I looked like beforehand?**) Right turn. (**Is that standard captain procedure?**) Left turn. (**… wouldn't she have more important things …**) Another left. (** … to worry about right now?**) Another left.

David stopped. The intersection looked like every other intersection he'd passed. Coming to his senses, David grimaced and rolled his eyes. (**I have no idea where I've been going … idiot**)

"Computer, indicate present location, and location of Ensign David Paxton's quarters."

Listening to the computer chirp its response (**why were the voices always female? Something about being more soothing and calm … wasn't that it?**), David started walking again.

(**God, hope no one noticed that … at least the counselor's not around**) The turbolift doors swished shut as David indicated the desired floor. The steady hum (** no doubt also designed for it's calming effect**) of the rising lift echoed through the tiny room.

=swish= David took a step out of the turbolift doors, and took a right. (**Man, with my luck, the Betazoid in the transporter room was the counselor, and not the doctor …**) Right turn. (**Is it still standard to do psych evals of the new crew … wonder how long I can put that off?**) Left turn. (**I can't put it off, I'm just an Ensign … **)

(**Wonder what'd be worse … volunteer for double shifts to avoid the counselor, or just bite the bullet and listen to him babble about me needing to open up more**) Left turn.

Reaching his quarters, David entered. Throwing his duffle on the chair by the door, David looked around. "Computer, lights." The lights came on, revealing a neat but sparse room. (**Hey, only one bed!). Having a roommate all through the Academy, and before that living with his parents (**even if only one at a time**), David felt himself relax slightly. (**Finally, my own space. No awkward introductions … conversations … getting used to each other's boundaries… **)

David glanced at his chronometer. He didn't feel like unpacking, and with only about 45 minutes until the Captain's meeting, there was no point in changing into casual clothes. Maybe afterwards, if he wasn't assigned to anything immediately …

**Still, I can at least have a look around the ship until the meeting … didn't that kid mention a park or something?**

Lt. Indigor had just came aboard. He found his quarters, through in his duffle, and headed straight for the bridge. ::I'll make a good impression,:: he thought, ::showing up before I'm actually on duty.::

When he showed up, the only people on the bridge were the Navigator, apparently either a Trill or a Bajoran, and a human working the Security station.

"May I help you, sir?" Norallah asked the Andorian.

"No, I just thought I'd get the feel of my work station." Inidgor replied, and sat down at the Helmsman spot.

"Well, Lieutenant, as we may be working together, I'm Norallah. Pleased to meet you," she lied.

"Hi, I'm Reg." said the security man.

"Pleased to meet you... Ensign," came the cold reply.

The bridge was uncomfortably quiet for the next several minutes as Lt. Indigor inspected 'his' workstation. Norallah turned and rolled her eyes at Reg.

A few minutes later, the turbolift arrived. Commander Nganga stepped out of it with a female officer no one recognized.

"Commander Nganga," Norallah said, acknowledging her (as far as she knew) still-commanding officer.

The commander looked at Norallah, then glanced and gave a slight nod towards the accompanying officer, then back at Norallah with a slight smile.

A look of understanding crossed her face, but before she could append her statement...

"Captain," Indigor said, noticing the four pips on Starkin's neck. "Welcome aboard."

Were Lt. Commander Dekelley present, he would have distinctly 'heard' the thought "brown noser" (or possibly "blue noser") from somewhere on the bridge. Its exact origin would have remained unknown.

Not having Dekelley's Betazoid talent, the only thoughts Starkin heard were her own, and they were currently preoccupied. She paused and looked across the bridge. Again, she faced the feelings of "yes, it looks like just another bridge; but it still feels different." And despite knowing that this bridge, this ship, served the entire crew, she couldn't help but feel the warm sense of pride and ownership.

The awareness that one of 'her' officers had addressed her brought Starkin back from her brief reverie (amplified by the mild expression of awkwardness coming from the blue skinned helmsman), she tilted her head towards the crewmen, "Thank you. It's good to be here." Turning towards the other bridge crew "Is everything as one would expect?"

Again, before Norallah or Reg could say anything, Indigor said confidently, "Of course, sir. I've been checking it myself, and everything looks just fine."

Dekelley would again take notice of the less than pleasant thoughts spiking through the bridge. To their credit, the officers let nary a trace of their annoyance show. Likewise, the Captain's expression remained unchanged as she made mental notes about the lieutenant's... eagerness... and his fellow officers' subtle reactions. Realizing he was again waiting for some kind of acknowledgement, she said, "Very good. Carry on."

As Starkin walked down the ramp, Nganga's thoughts returned to the puzzle placed before him. ::Could they just be a very close family... unless...:: He stopped the thought when he saw Starkin pause by 'the chair.' Smiling, "The seat is yours."

Uriell looked at the pylons of dry-dock. "Well,... we're not going anywhere just yet." She then walked back up the other side. "And we do have things to do." Looking at the ceiling, "Though I must tell you, Commander-- I like the fact that you've kept the ship, especially the bridge, well lit. It seems like so many of the ships I've been on lately have kept everything quite dim. It's a welcome change."

"Thank you, Captain. I've found that having only work station lighting on tends to make crews edgy and more aggressive," Nganga explained. He then glanced at his PADD.

"Captain, with your permission, I'd like to have the lieutenant here," Nganga indicated Indigor, "apply his expertise to inspect the Secondary Bridge." Privately, Nganga wondered if anyone realized that he deliberately avoided using the term 'Battle Bridge'.

Starkin looked towards Nganga. "Yes, " turning back towards Indigor, "That sounds like a excellent idea." The word "But..." all but formed on Indigor's blue lips. "You are up to task, aren't you Lieutenant...?"

"Indigor, sir. I... " Straightening up. "Certainly, sir."

"Thank you, Lieutenant. I'm glad we can count on you." If the captain was being sarcastic, it certainly wasn't indicated by what she said or how she said it; her words were sincere and without exaggeration.

There was an awkward pause as Indigor realized that they meant now. "At once, Captain. Sir. (to Nganga)" With military precision, Indigor nodded to the two higher ranking officers. He then gave a slight nod to Norallah, spun on his heels and went to the turbolift (completely ignoring Mr. Hurt.)

As the turbolift doors closed, Starkin turned to Norallah and Nganga, "I assume Mr. Indigor is not scheduled to be at the helm at this time?"

"No ma'am." Norallah relied. "Since we're not going anywhere, someone at helm wasn't really necessary. Although I think an Ensign Paxton would eventually man helm, if I understand correctly. I know he's beamed aboard, but he hasn't checked in yet."

A 'disciplinary' look went across Nganga's face as he looked at the Captain.

"It's alright. I just saw him in the transporter. He's probably just settling in. He'll be at the meeting in about an hour, so he should be checking before then."

"I'll be sure he does," Nganga said quietly.

"If there's nothing else...." Starkin looked around at the bridge officers.

Norallah stood quietly - she had already mentioned the absent helmsman. She followed Starkin's shifting glance towards Ensign Hurt. He had a blank look on his face. Reg obviously had nothing to say at this time.

"Good then. Keep me posted."

Nganga chided himself at his tone about Paxton. He doesn't know him and he really hasn't done anything to warrant this attitude except, maybe, take some time to see the ship. If the captain saw him in the transporter room, he hadn't had that much time to settle in yet. Nganga realized that Indigor's brownnosing was getting under his skin. The fact that the captain new the ensign at least by sight was why the ensign was lead Flight Controller instead of the more experienced Andorian. That and the fact that Indigor was ... someone McGintly might like to work with.

"Aye Captain." Nganga moved over the starboard side chair of three that were the center of the bridge, and picked up his PADD. He still had that report to finish. He stood waiting to see what the captain did.

Once Starkin entered her Ready Room, he sat down and went to work.

<Shortly after the transporter room is cleared.>

The world spun and danced around T'Vala until it slowly came to a halt in the transporter room. After some delays she had finally arrived on the Cochrane. As she had been taught from an early age she instantly took in her surroundings. The young Vulcan behind the controls seemed calm, as is only proper but an excitement still hung it the air. There was something about the ensign that made her uneasy. This was not a feeling she liked, or did she? Inside she cursed her immature self.

T'Vala decided to leave and take a tour of the ship to get acquainted with her new home. Even her Vulcan calmness could not make her contain her growing excitement. Hoping to get a feel of the ship decided to make the Boardwalk her fist stop.

The doors hissed open allowing her first glimpse in. Anyone looking at her would have thought she was almost bored but deep down she could not help but be impressed. T'Vala noticed that most of the population with in was crew.

As she glanced around she noticed someone moving towards her that she thought she would never see again. But what surprised her the most was the color he wore. Jayngo in blue?

Having stopped by their individual quarters, Doctor Jayngo and Ensign Aeth arrived on level 10. The computer had notified him that Lieutenant T'Vala had beamed aboard while they were aboard the lift, but he told Nik that he would catch up with his old friend later. As the turbolift doors opened, they both took in a deep breath of awe at the wide-open space in front of them. A large park, filled with trees, plants and foliage from multiple worlds, accompanied the spread of storefronts. Nik was the first to utter words. "The grass is so green."

Jayngo: "There has to be at least a dozen worlds represented here. To have them all thrive in the same environment is a feat by itself, but on a starship no less ..."

In unison, they both said, "amazing."

As they stepped from the turbolift, two security officers standing on either side of the doors greeted them with a "Welcome to the Boardwalk." Jayngo know that there were sensors already in place to register clearance to and from the boardwalk; that these men were merely a precaution. But their pleasant attitude as greeters offset the very clear military presence for the civilian section on the ship.

The two officers were no sooner through the entrance when Jayngo's communicator activated. =^= Rory to Jayngo. =^=

"Go ahead, Rory."

=^= I have just checked over your schedule. It is very ambitious. Other than the command staff, I think I will entrust your staff to handle the exams. If anything jumps out at you as needing my attention, forward them on. Otherwise, I'm going to take it a little slower. After all, I'm only one man. =^=

"Fine by me, Counselor. I will see you, then, at your appointment at 1400 hours."

=^= Good. Actually, however, you will probably see me before then. The Captain is having a meeting for his senior staff in about a half-hour in his Ready Room. =^=

"Thank you for the information." Jayngo looked to Ensign Aeth to make sure she heard as well. She nodded yes. "We'll be there. Jayngo out."

They proceeded down the path, admiring the hard work that had gone into the renovated section, when Nik grabbed Jayngo by the hand and attempted to pull him towards the grass. "It's so beautiful. Let's walk through it in our bare feet."

"I don't think so," was Jayngo's only reply.

"Oh, come on. It'll be fun."

A voice from behind her startled her, and a Bolian in a Boardwalk uniform walked up behind her. "It would be fun for you, but the grass wouldn't enjoy it much. You would be fine, but your big friend there ..." Before Ensign Aeth was able to utter the question, the man extended his hand and said, "Marlo Salvitor."

First Nik, then Jayngo shook the man's hand. The doctor responded with, "you must be the groundskeeper. You have performed a miracle here, sir."

"Nonsense. The miracle-working takes place down in engineering. Here it's just a matter of TLC. And don't call me sir. You outrank me."

"In this case, sir is a manner of respect for your work. You can call me Jayngo."

"Good to meet you, doctor. I appreciate your kindness towards the plants."

Nik finally threw in her two cents worth. "Why can't he walk on the grass? What good is grass if you can't walk on it?"

Jayngo looked back at his companion and simply stated, "my mass would be too much for the plants and soil to support."

"For the record," Marlo put in, "there is a section of grass, over near the left-hand side of the bandstand, that you will be fine in. That is, of course, if you were capable of walking on the grass back home."

All three looked in the direction the groundskeeper was pointing. While all of the grass was beautiful and green, one section, now that it was pointed out, was even more so.

Jayngo: "You didn't. You couldn't have."

Marlo: "The soil was a bugger to cultivate; like plowing through concrete. But with a controlled status field limited to ground level to keep that one area from turning into a forest area overnight, we managed to bring it in."

Jayngo: "Amazing. Between that, the water lily - thank you, by the way - and the culinary delights from home, you all have gone far above the call of duty. I am eternally grateful."

Marlo: "My pleasure, Jayngo. If you will excuse me, my kids are around here somewhere, and I need to make sure they aren't pulling up the daffodils again."

As Jayngo watched the groundkeeper wander off, he took notice of his children and the officer that seemed to be watching them. He also noticed a blonde-haired member of command walk into ten-forward. "Nik, I'll meet you in 10 Forward. I see someone that I want to talk to."

Nik replied in a pouty voice, "sure, why not. Not like we have plans or anything."

"I will catch up to you momentarily. In fact, order three Vantara Teas, 48 degrees Celsius, with three ounces of Atlarian honey in each. We will be right behind you."

"OK. But don't keep me waiting."

Jayngo smiled at her and took off walking down the path that led to the other side of the pavilion. Within moments, he was approaching his old shipmate and friend. "T'Vala. It's good to see you again."

T'Vala had obviously been keeping up with her Vulcan training, as his arrival showed nothing on her face. "Jayngo. I was not expecting to see you here. I knew you had returned to the academy, but I did not realize it was for the sciences."

"Medical, actually."

"I am sure you will make a fine doctor."

"Thank you, T'Vala. I'm glad to see you were able to get back into Tactical. You seemed to enjoy it more."

"Enjoyment is irreverent. This ship already had a Security Officer and needed a Tactical. I am able to fill the need."

"If you say so. I also noticed you ended up as Chief of Security aboard the Desperado. You deserved it."

"I was their second choice, but thank you for the sentiment. My replacement is a capable officer. She will continue with the efficiency that I trained her to uphold."

"Well, there is a meeting in the Captain's ready room in a half hour for senior staff, which means we have until then to catch up on old times. I have a new friend waiting for us in ten-forward with drinks that I'm buying. Let's go."

Jayngo suppressed a smile out of compassion for his old friend. He knew that down deep inside she was thrilled, but as always she tried to hold back her passions in exchange for her Vulcan stoicism. Before she had the chance to protest, Jayngo gently took her by the arm and escorted her to ten-forward.

=swish=

(**Hey, not bad**) David strolled out of the turbolift and into the park. Stepping off the sidewalk, David began cutting across the park. The ground was soft beneath him, and David stopped long enough to kneel down and touch the grass. (** … feels real**) Ripping a few strands from the ground, he sniffed (**smells real**). David grinned his approval, and kept walking.

Of course, it would never surpass something outdoors, and the park was altogether too busy with the civilians and shops nearby. (**If it's this busy when people are still moving in, it'll be chaotic once everyone's settled**). Still, the park was a nice touch (**I ought to be able to find some quiet niche around here**).

Wanting to get out of the way of the bustle going on around him, David kept on towards the Ten Forward section. Since David was still in uniform, the guard at the checkpoint paid him little attention other than a quick glance-and-a-nod. Not stopping to chat or introduce himself, David kept walking.

Distracted by a pretentious-sounding voice to his left (**shouldn't he be in sickbay?**), David glanced over to see what looked like an EMH (**wha … aren't they bald?**) gesturing in the air, behind a bar filled with bright and … interesting … paintings. Approaching, David overheard: " … then there is the comfort of knowing you can come here and I can still cure your daily blues with some drinks and music here in my off … my bar …"

(**who is he talking to?**) Just as David was opening his mouth to ask the question, a young ensign stood up from behind the bar, tools in hand. David glanced over to see an open panel, and tool kit lying on the floor next to it. Noticing David for the first time, the new Ensign introduced himself. Holding out his hand, he said, "Hi, I'm Ensign Bak Xiam, welcome aboard."

Grasping the proffered hand, David returned the greeting. "Ensign David Paxton. Thanks."

The hologram, his conversation with Ensign Bak disrupted, turned towards the new arrival.

Looking at the new arrival, a smile crossed the EMH face. "And I am your bartender and welcome to 10-Forward Ensign David. What can I get you?"

With out waiting the hologram bartender grabs a tall thin, aqua glass from below the counter top and sets it on the bar and then places both of his hands on the bar.

David looked over to the EMH (** or should that be EBH - emergency bartending hologram?**). Of course he was aware of the Hologram Liberation Movement, and the impact that the EMH from Voyager had had since its return from the Delta Quadrant. Still, to see one in a bartending capacity … well, it just didn't seem as close and personal. Although David himself rarely shared anything with anyone, he knew that many people liked to "open up" to their bartenders … (**Will a hologram really have the experiences to be able to relate to people as a bartender?**)

"Er, no thanks … maybe later," David said, with a nod towards the glass on the bar. "I've got a meeting coming up, and want to look around a bit more beforehand."

Ensign Bak chimed in, "Yea, it's a great place, what I've seen … though I haven't had much time to look around since the Engineering team's been working round the clock to make sure everything's up to speed … speaking of which … excuse me for a moment …"

Ensign Bak disappeared beneath the bar. Looking over, David saw him pull a new tool from his case and aim it at the interior paneling. As the tip of the tool glowed a soft-yellow, a low-pitched buzz emitted from it.

The bartender turned to watch Bak do his work. There was a look of concern coupled with impatience carved on his stiff face. Head slightly cocked to the right, with his left-eyebrow raised, the bartender spoke. "I trust you know what you're doing, Ensign? My livelihood and performance depend upon those replicators operating up to full capacity, and in some cases beyond. Why the mere thought of them malfunctioning … I'd never be able to live it down if I inadvertently served anything inappropriate due to an internal error . I've worked quite hard at making certain my programming is as complete as it can be, and the thought of my reputation being sullied because of a crossed- wire, or computer error …"

"You have nothing to worry about," Ensign Bak replied, before the EMH (**no, he's not medical now**) could continue spouting his concerns. "As a matter of fact," he said, as the buzzing of his instrument heightened to a crescendo and then shut off, "I'm all done." Placing his tools neatly back into the case, he replaced the paneling.

"Well," said the bartender, "I must say, that's a relief. Why, suppose the captain had shown up requesting some service, and I wasn't able to satisfy the request because the replicators were inoperable? What would that say about me?"

"Relax, the captain isn't even due on board until 2000 hours. I think he's …"

David cut off Ensign Bak, "Actually, the captain's already on board."

"There, you see, Ensign Bak?" The bartender crossed his arms, a smug look on his face.

Standing, Bak looked at David. "Really? All our scheduling indicated we'd have more time. Did he take his shuttle tour already?

"Well, I don't know anything about that, but she was in the transporter room with the commander when I beamed over. She's holding a meeting with Sr. officers and bridge crew in … " David checked his chronometer, " … about 30 minutes." (**Well, I've got a little more time, yet**)

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