Uncertain Mission

   Chapter 15

    By zero eight hundred everyone were at their Stations ready for departure from DS7. After they were underway Captain Lake sat at the Conn and for the first time had a feeling of uncertainty about their Mission; probably because he didn’t like the idea of two of his Crew being someplace else with a hidden agenda to execute.

    Finally James was snapped back to reality when T’Sol asked “Captain what warp should we proceed at” he queried. “Sorry Lieutenant, warp eight please” James responded. “Aye Sir, going to warp eight. Science and Tactical did their usual scanning ahead for any dangers.

     About mid morning, on the second day, Tactical called out “Captain sensors are picking up a Ship directly in our path” Maria informed James. “Who is it; friend or foe” James asked. “Uncertain Sir, their ID isn’t in our database.” Maria replied; but before James could ask another question “Sir they’re powering up weapons.” “Red alert” James ordered “Lieutenant bring weapons online” “Aye Captain.” James opened a channel “Hostile Ship this is the USS Vigilant, we are a Science Research Vessel. Bring your weapons to bare on us is an act of War.” he stated matter of factly. “Sir they’re firing weapons.” “Helm evasive maneuvers, bring us up behind them. Tactical take out their weapons array; let’s see how they like being fired on” James commented. A few minutes later “Sir we’re in position” T’ Sol stated. “Firing now Captain” Maria called out “Direct hit. Their weapons have been neutralized Captain.” 

    James opened a channel “Hostile Ship what are your intentions” he inquired but before a response came “Sir they’re powering up their warp engines” Commander Reese stated and moments later the Ship was gone. Helm looked over at James “Do you want us to pursue” T’sol queried. “No let’s be on our way. Tactical, Science keep checking your scans; I want to know the moment that Ship gets anywhere near us” Lake ordered as he heard “Aye Sir” from his Crew.

    The Mission was progressing nicely on this the third day as T’Sol informed James “Captain we are about three hours from Draylax Sir.” “Good the sooner we get the Summit over with the better I’ll feel” James replied being very serious when SanChez spoke up “Sir we have a very big Ship directly in our path” as she paused for a moment checking her Screen “I mean it’s Galaxy Class big Captain.” “Lieutenant hail them” James ordered hoping for a response as a rather stern looking man’s face appeared “I am Prefect Dobas, who are you and what are you doing here in my Muratus Sector.” “This is Captain James Lake, Commanding Officer of the Shuttle Vigilant; we are on our way to Draylax for a Tactical Summit. “So you’re the one that fired on one of my scout ships and killed their weapons. It would seem that Shuttle of yours packs quite the punch. I’m going to need to scan your Shuttle before you are allowed to proceed any further.” Prefect go ahead with your scans and you’ll see I’m not trying to deceive you in any way” James replied knowing he wouldn’t find anything unusual for a shuttle. “Captain we’re being scanned” Reese called out. After several tense minutes the Prefect hailed the Vigilant “We have completed our scans and have found nothing that is out of the ordinary for a Shuttle of your size. You may be on your way and thank you Captain Lake for your cooperation” Dobas stated sternly. “You welcome Prefect, so if there’s nothing else I would ask you to move your Ship so we may proceed” James replied being more at ease now. Moments later “Captain the Ship is leaving the area” Number One stated with relief in her voice. “Good, lets continue on our way” James commented.

    The next few hours went by rather quickly with Science and Tactical keeping a close eye on their Screens not wanting anymore surprises. Turning towards James “Captain, we’re entering Draylax’s space. Standard orbit Sir” T’Sol queried already knowing what the response would be. “Yes Mr T’Sol standard orbit would be fine” James stated then turning to Maria “Lieutenant SanChez you are relieved from your post. Please get whatever you’re going to need and have Lieutenant Nox join you and we’ll beam you down to the Surface” James ordered as he rose from his seat and moved over to Tactical. “As you wish Captain” then Maria made her way to deck two where Nox was waiting for her with gear and a different uniform.

    Maria walked into the Intelligence room where Nox was waiting for her with an all black uniform void of any insignias. Nox smiled “Please close the door”as Maria did as requested. Handing her a uniform “Here Maria, put this on for the mission” she commented as Maria stripped of her Star Fleet attire and grabbed the provided uniform. Nox stopped her “This  works better being braless, unless you have an issue with it” Nox explained. “No that’s fine” then she removed her bra with Nox noticing how nicely put together she was. After she was redressed Nox changed into the uniform the same way. Maria couldn’t help but think “Maybe there’s a future date here” while she just smiled at her.

    Maria and Nox went back up to Deck One to the Transporter Pads where James and Racheal were waiting for them “Ladies please be careful; I expect you both back aboard safely and in one piece” James commented with a smile trying his best to hide his concern. “Not to worry Captain, we’re both armed and I have the necessary Tech for the Mission” Nox reassured her Captain. “Good luck ladies and we’ll see you when you get back” Racheal commented with a smile. “Energize” Nox stated then Number One beamed them both to the surface. The Officers turned “Now we wait” James commented while they both returned to the Bridge.

    The two ladies materialized near the meeting place and walked to the building where the Summit was to be held and into a large room where they presented their invitations. With everything in order, the ladies were instructed to have a seat. They decided to sit halfway back just in case they needed to make a quick exit for some reason. Several minutes passed with Nox noticing Maria was very uneasy as she leaned over towards her, which also gave her the chance to insert the round microphone into her ear “Maia relax this will all be over soon” Nox commented with a smile. “Sorry but I hate these things. Most of these knuckleheads look like they wouldn’t know one end of a phaser from the other” Maria stated with a chuckle. “Maybe we’ll get lucky and the person I have to record will be one of the early speakers” Nox commented hoping she was right.

    Shortly the Master of Ceremonies stepped to the microphone “Thank you all for coming and I hope you enjoy the various Speakers and learn something from each of them” he commented with a smile “Our first speaker today is Doctor Omar, and I think you’ll benefit from his presentation” as he turned looking at the Omar “Doctor the podium is all yours for the next twenty five minutes” as the MC returned to his seat.

    Omar took a deep breath then began “My fellow Drylaxians and guests; too long have we lived under a tyrannical rule and I’m here to tell you how we can escape that with my new weapons.” He went into detail about his weaponry and how to make an impact on the current regime.

    Meanwhile Nox started recording his presentation being very glad he was the first speaker of the day. The Doctor actually went over his time limit but nothing was said. Finally when he was finished the MC returned to the podium “Thank you Doctor Omar for that enlightening presentation” as the crowd broke into applause. “Since it’s now mid morning we’ll take a ten minute break. Out in the Lobby is coffee and refreshments so please help yourselves.”

    As the crowd got up from their seats Nox whispered to Maria with a smile “I have what we came for; let’s get out of here” she stated “You don’t have to tell me twice” Maria replied as the two Officers made their way to the door and outside. After they walked a ways away Nox looked around for any prying eyes then tapping her Comm “Vigilant we’re ready to return.” “I have a lock on you both, energizing now” Number One stated and moments later they were safely back aboard. James walked over “You ladies all set then” he inquired. “Yes Captain, let me transfer the information to a PADD for you to give the Commodore and change back into my uniform” Nox replied with a smile. “Good take your time, both of you; job well done” as they both thanked the Captain. Nox looked at Maria “You coming” as the two left for the Intelligence Area.

    As the two Officers were changing back into their regulation Uniforms Nox placed her hand on Maria’s arm with a smile “Perhaps you would have a drink with me some evening when we’re back at the Base” she inquired. “Yes I’d like that” Maria replied with a grin “Just let me know when” “Sure thing” Nox replied with a big smile. “If you’ll excuse me I need to get back on the Bridge” then Maria turned and made her way back to Deck One with a smile on her face.

    Meanwhile the Vigilant was already underway heading back towards DS7 with Captain Lake hoping for no more surprises for the trip home. Hearing someone enter the Bridge James turned “Lieutenant SanChez welcome back; I take it everything went well at the Summit.” “Yes captain, everything went well but I am sure glad to be back at my Station where I belong” Maria replied with a grin when Racheal spoke up “Job well done Ms.SanChez and it’s nice to have you back at Tactical” as a smile came across Racheal’s face. “Thank you Commander” Maria replied while James returned the Tactical functions back to her Console “There Lieutenant, you have control of Tactical once again” James stated as Maria assumed her Post.

    Down on Deck 2 Nox was in the process of transferring the data from the Summit onto a PADD for the Commodore. As she was waiting she couldn’t help but think about seeing Maria topless; what a beautiful sexy women she was, someone she would like to get to know better. When the process was finished, Nox grabbed it and headed for the Bridge.

    Walking to the Bridge entrance “Captain if I may come in, I have the PADD ready for you Sir” Nox stated while waiting for acknowledgement. James turned around “Please Lieutenant, by all means come in.” Nox walked over and handed James the PADD “This is all set with everything that I recorded at the Summit” she stated with a smile. “Excellent Lieutenant” he replied “In the future you may walk onto the Bridge anytime; you are very much a member of this Crew.” “Thank you Sir, I’ll remember that in the future. Now if you’ll excuse me I’ll return to Deck 2.” “Yes by all means and thank you for bringing this to me” James commented with a smile. Nox gave a nod then looked over towards Maria. Their eyes met as each one smiled at the other then Nox vacated the Bridge; Number One couldn’t help but notice the exchange of glances between the two ladies and just grinned to herself.

    At the end of the day everyone retired to their respective Quarters for a good night’s sleep. As James and Racheal were getting ready for bed she commented “James did you happen to notice the glances between Nox and Maria on the Bridge.” “No, I guess I missed it” he replied “Why something going on with those two ladies?” Racheal grinned “I didn’t sense anything yet, but I think soon once we get back to the Base” she replied. James just chuckled “I thought Maria like the ladies but I didn’t think Nox did” he commented as he got into bed. “It would appear so” Racheal replied “Sleep well Captain.” “You too Number One” as Command fell asleep.

    The next day went without a hitch with everyone performing their duties as the Vigilant was getting closer to home. The third day however was a different story altogether as T’Sol notified James “Captain we’re about six hours from DS7.” “Thank you Lieutenant, steady as she goes. It couldn’t have been more than five minutes when Maria spoke up “Captain I’m picking up a good sized Ship on long range sensors and they’re directly in our path” she informed James while watching her Screen “It’s a Ferengi Ship Sir.” “Now what” he thought to himself  “Ms SanChez open a channel” came the order. “All set Sir” she replied keeping her eyes on her Screen. “Ferengi Ship this is Captain James Lake, Commanding Officer of the Shuttle Vigilant. What can we do for you.” “Captain Lake this is Thrawn, Captain of the Domas. May I say you have a very impressive Shuttle; I believe we shall relieve you of her so stand down and we might let you and your Crew live to tell the tale.” James almost burst out laughing at his remarks “I don’t think the Federation would like that very much” then he paused briefly “Tell you what, you move your Ship and let us be on our way or suffer the consequences” James stated matter of factly. Thrawn burst out laughing “Do you really think you can defeat my Ship” then he turned and said something to one of his Crew “Captain I tire of this. This is your final warning before we open fire and take it by force.” James said nothing but gave Maria the signal to close the Channel “Red Alert, raise Shields” he ordered “Mr. T’Sol get us into a defensive position, let’s see just how tough they really are.” “Aye Sir, moving the Ship into position.” “Tactical get a lock on their weapons array. Science switch screens and keep an eye on the area” came the orders. Both Officers did as ordered as they replied “Aye Sir.” Then tapping his Comm “Lieutenant Herek we may have a fight on our hands; keep a close eye on things down there” James ordered. “As you wish Captain” came the reply. Moments later “I have a lock on them Sir, awaiting your orders” Maria stated. Looking over at T’Sol James got the nod “Full phaser spread, Fire!” Moments later “Their weapons are down by only five percent Sir” Maria informed the Captain when the Vigilant was jarred by a direct hit. James thought for a quick moment while checking for any damage “Switch over to a quantum torpedo; fire two at will.” A few moments later “Their weapons have been neutralized Captain” Maria informed James. “Science any casualties over there” he inquired. Checking her Screen “Nothing on the scans Sir” Racheal replied. “Good, Tactical make us disappear. Helm get us around that Ship and let’s get out of here. Well done everyone” as James heard “Aye Captain” all around.

    Back aboard the Domas “What just happened; report” Thrawn screamed at his Crew. “Captain they took out our weapons and now” then he paused rather confused “They seem to have disappeared?” came the reply. “How is that even possible! A Shuttle just bested us and now you are telling me they just disappeared?” As he let out a long sigh “So much for a nice new Ship instead of traveling around in this old rust bucket” Thrawn stated “Set course for home.”

    The rest of the trip home went without any problems when T’Sol informed the Captain “Sir, we will be approaching DS7 in ten minutes.” “Good, do your thing Lieutenant and get us home” James ordered. “Aye Sir” T’Sol replied and several minutes later they were back aboard the Base safe and sound.

    After Lieutenant Herek and Ensign Benna secured the Ship everyone exited the Vigilant with duffels in hand ready to return to their quarters for some much needed rest.

Mision Briefing

Chapter 14

    The following morning James woke at zero eight hundred hours feeling rather refreshed after a good nights sleep. As per his usual routine he showered, shaved, and dressed in his uniform for the day ahead. 

    Walking into the living area James grabbed a hot cup of coffee and caught up on some reports that would be forwarded to the Commodore concerning their last mission. As he was finishing things up his door chime went off. Going to the door he opened it “Commodore what a nice surprise, please come in” he greeted with a smile.

    Rebecca walked in “Good morning James and how are you today” she inquired  with a smile. “I’m good thank you; I assume we have a new mission” he replied. “Yes we do and we need to discuss the particulars.” “Please have a seat and tell me what the new Mission entails’” he answered.

    For the next Mission; you’ll be heading to the Muratas Sector to Draylax where a Tactical Summit is being held. We have made arrangements for Lieutenant SanChez to attend with an appropriate invitation. She will, of course, be accompanied by Lieutenant Nox as her companion. Nox is too record discreetly the entire Summit in hopes the recording will provide us with the Draylaxian imposter who we think is attempting to start a war with Axanar; a nearby planet rich in resources. The Mission should last a week with three days there and back with a day for the Summit. Any questions” Rebecca explained.

    “Only one, but more of a personal nature. With respect I’m not comfortable sending Lieutenant SanChez on a Mission of this nature. As you well know I do have a background in Tactical; so why not send me instead” James commented with some concern.

    The Commodore thought for a moment looking for the right words “ I understand your concern for the safety of your Crew but the fact remains they all knew there would be risks when they accepted this assignment” she explained then continued “Lieutenant SanChez possesses some things you don’t, like ground Tactical training and experience besides extensive close combat training. Lieutenant Nox of course has the ability to sense a situation before it becomes volatile. Besides both ladies, in case you haven’t noticed James, are rather attractive which may serve to their advantage on a Mission of this nature” she concluded with a grin.

    James let out a sigh “Now that you explain things that way” then he paused “You’re right  and I will follow your orders the letter, of course, and for the record, yes I have noticed both ladies are rather attractive. I’ll explain everything to both of them in detail so everyone’s up to speed on what’s expected of them” James replied feeling a little better about their next mission.

    Rebecca smiled seeing James was onboard with the situation “I thought if I explained it in detail you’d see where we were coming from but; I do respect your position as Captain and I would probably have the same concerns. Now if you’ll excuse me, I’ll let you inform the rest of your Crew on the upcoming Mission” she commented then stood and left James’ quarters.

    Tapping his Comm “Commander Reese please report to the briefing Room” he ordered. Moments later Racheal walked in with a smile “You wanted to see me Captain” she inquired with a grin “Do we have another Mission?” As she sat waiting to hear what was next. “Yes, but let’s wait for the others then I’ll explain everything. 

    When everyone arrived James explained the entire Mission in detail and instructed Lieutenants SanChez and Nox what their jobs would be at the Summit “Any questions from anyone” he asked as everyone shook their heads no. “One last thing, and this goes for the Lieutenants, stay alert, I want you back unharmed and in one piece and that’s an order” James stated with a smile “The last thing I want to do is have to replace anyone on this Crew; at least not for years to come.” Lastly this will be a week Mission so pack accordingly; please report to the Vigilant at twenty hundred. That’s all, your dismissed.”

    Everyone left the Room, including Racheal which was unusual,  Nox walked up to James “Captain I just want you to know I will do everything in my power to protect Maria and make sure we come back safely” she stated with sincerity. James smiled “I have no doubt of that  whatsoever” he replied with a smile. Nox smiled back then left the Room.

    When the appointed time rolled around everyone was back aboard the Vigilant sitting and talking once again. About twenty two hundred everyone proceeded to their quarters out of habit without being ordered to do so.

    T’Sol sat on his bed looking at his roommate “Maria are you concerned about being at the Summit” he queried with interest. “No, not really. Nox will be with me so I figure between the two of us we could kick some serious ass if need be” she replied with a grin. T’Sol looked puzzled “I did not know someone’s ass could be serious since it does not possess a brain.” Maria couldn’t help but laugh “T’Sol that is just an human expression” she stated still chuckling a little. “Indeed” he replied “I will never understand the human need to say something that is not true” as he got into bed “Sleep well Maria.” “You too T’Sol” she replied with a grin.

Scanning The Unknown

Chapter 13

    Captain Lake arrived aboard the Vigilant a little before twenty hundred carrying a platter of deep fried veggies along with one beer for each Crew member. James thought it would be a nice gesture as well as a team building exercise for his Crew. They filed in a few at a time until everyone was back aboard before twenty hundred “Welcome back home” James commented with a grin “Please help yourselves to the platter of goodies and there is one beer for each of you. I thought we could sit for an hour or so and just shoot the breeze before retiring for the night.” The Crew thanked James for his thoughtfulness while enjoying the food and beer. About twenty two hundred everything was cleaned up and the Crew went to their respective Quarters to get a good nights sleep before starting another Mission.

    Daniel and Katlyn walked into their shared Quarters getting ready for bed “So do you think the new cloaking generator will hold for the Mission” Katlyn inquired with a smile. “It sure as well better or this could go south real fast” he replied with a grin “One things for sure, I’ll be keeping a close on it until we’re off that Planet.” 

    Maria and T’Sol were getting ready for bed when she asked “T’Sol are you ready for the next Mission?” “Yes, I believe I am. Logically I have planned for all possible outcomes once we are on Tiburon. The new cloaking generator should work well.” “I sure hope you’re right. Well good night T’Sol” she replied. “You was well Maria” he answered.

    Nox and Mark were sitting on their beds talking for awhile “Mark I understand you’ll be working in Engineering for the duration of our Mission” Nox commented. “Yes, at least it’ll give me something constructive to do” he replied with a grin “Besides I don’t mind learning something new; and you’re going to be on the Bridge working a Science Station I take it.” “Yes it will be like ‘old home week’; I haven’t been doing anything science in years but I think I still remember how” Nox answered with a smile.

    Racheal was in the shower and James lay on his bed going over some things on the Computer Screen. She walked back into their quarters with her sleeping attire already on as she climbed into bed. Looking over at James she stated in a low voice “Sorry I’m not Katlyn sharing these quarters with you” Racheal commented with a big grin. James snickered “That would probably be a little awkward since we won’t be seeing one another socially any more and  I do need to stay focused” he replied. Racheal was very surprised hearing the news “Oh….I didn’t know….sorry for the short romance” she commented with sincerity “

Sleep well Captain” as she rolled over in bed. “You also Commander. Computer lights out” as the two went to sleep.

    The next morning everyone was up early to get ready for what lay ahead. Some grabbed breakfast while most everyone grabbed their preferred morning beverage of choice. About zero seven forty five the Crew went to their assigned Stations without James saying a word; this made him feel like the Crew had melded together well.

    Captain Lake walked onto the Bridge seeing everyone one was at their Stations including Lieutenant Nox “Welcome to the Bridge Lieutenant” James commented with a smile “Ok people let’s say we get the show on the road. Mr. T’Sol how’s the preflight coming along.” “Done Captain and awaiting your order to depart” he replied. “Excellent; Science and Tactical please make sure we have clear sailing ahead. Helm get us going at your convenience” James ordered. “Aye Sir” as T’Sol contacted the Dock Master for clearance to depart. Soon they left the dock and were going at one quarter impulse “Helm as soon as we clear traffic, warp eight if you please” came the order “As you wish Captain” moments later “Initializing warp eight now Sir” Helm replied; now came the six day trip to Tiburon.

    Three days passed with everything going as one would expect and the Crew performing their duties very well as per their training. About mid morning Tactical called out “Captain long range scans are showing a good sized Ship directly in our path” SanChez informed the Captain. “Have they picked us up yet on their long range scans” James queried with some concern. “No Sir, I don’t believe they have” she replied. “Helm drop us down to warp four for now; no sense in bringing any undo attention to ourselves” James ordered. “Dropping to warp four now Captain. That would seem like the logical course of action” T’Sol commented being quite sincere in his observations, invoking smirks from the rest of his colleagues. “That it would Mr T’Sol” James replied while appreciating Vulcan mannerisms.  

    A couple of hours went by “Captain we’re being hailed” Maria stated at the Comms Station, which was next to Tactical for easy access. “Send it to my Station” James ordered. “Transferred Sir” she replied. Opening a channel “This is Captain James Lake, Commanding Officer of the USS Vigilant and who might you be.” An older gentleman appeared on the Screen “Captain Lake, I am Chief Marshal Deron. I am the Constable for the Actium Sector; please state your business here” he stated matter of factly. “Chief Marshal Deron we are merely passing through your area of space on our way to the Sierra Sector; we are a Science Research Shuttle” James replied hoping that would satisfy the Chief Marshal. Deron turned talking to someone off screen for a few minutes before returning his attention to the matter at hand “That’s quite a large Ship for just being a Shuttle” he commented being very stoic. James smiled “It’s a new type of Shuttle the Federation has developed for Scientific Research to free up their larger Ships” he explained keeping a poker face. “I see, then you won’t mind if we scan your Ship just to keep things on the up and up” the Chief Marshal inquired. “No not at all; you’ll see I’m being truthful about our intentions” James replied before ending the conversation. Turning to his Crew “I sure hope the Commodore was correct about our advanced weapons being shielded from scans” he commented “Helm should we need to make a hasty exit be ready.” “Aye Captain.” After several tense minutes “Sir we’re being hailed again” Maria informed the Captain. “Chief Marshal I hope you’re satisfied with your scan results” James commented. “Yes I am Captain, you may be on your way and thank you for your cooperation in this matter” Deron replied “Safe travels.” “Thank you Chief Marshal and have a good day, Lake out.” Everyone let out a sigh of relief as the Commander commented “That was a close one; I’m happy that went well.” James turned towards his First Officer “Yes so am I.” “Tactical let us know when we’re out of long range sensors from that Ship. Helm as soon as we’re out of range, warp nine if you please. James received an “Aye Captain” from both his Officers.

    The next two and a half days went by without incident “Captain we are about to enter the Sierra Sector and are about eight hours from Tiburon” T’Sol informed his Commanding Officer. “Good, steady as she goes Helm. Tactical lets get this Ship cloaked” “As you wish Captain” Lieutenant SanChez replied. “Engineering we are cloaked; if the generator even so much as sneezes I want to know about it” James ordered. “As you wish Sir” Lieutenant Herek replied.

    Meanwhile in Engineering “Lieutenant Zebot I want you and Ensign Benna to assume Engineering duties. I want to focus all my attention on the cloaking generator” Daniel ordered. “Sure thing Lieutenant” Katlyn replied then instructed Mark on what to keep an eye on. Even though she was the same rank as Daniel, Katlyn had no problem following Daniel’s orders since he was the Chief.

    Back on the Bridge Racheal was instructing Nox on the scanning procedures before they arrived at Tiburon “Nox not knowing if you’ve done these types of scans before I just wanted us to be on the same page” Reese explained with a smile. “No problem Commander, and no I have not done this thorough a scan before. I am here to assist you so any information you can give me will be helpful” Nox replied with a smile. The Captain was very pleased to see these two Officers working so well together for the first time. “Commander what speed do you require for the Scans” James inquired. “Probably one quarter impulse would be good” Racheal replied. “Helm as we approach Tiburon drop us out of warp and enter their atmosphere at one half impulse. Once we are at the designated coordinates drop to one quarter impulse and Commander Reese will direct you during their scans” James ordered being quite glad when the scans were completed. “Aye Captain, as you wish” T’Sol replied in his usual Vulcan manner.

    As the Vigilant approached Tiburon Helm dropped out of warp and slowed to one half impulse as directed. Keying in the predetermined coordinates “Captain we’re approaching the designated coordinates and dropping to one quarter impulse” T’Sol informed James. “Good, ok ladies looks like you’re up” James commented with a grin. “Helm bring us about thirty degrees to port” the Commander ordered while setting up her console to begin the scans. “As you wish Commander’ Helm replied. Racheal started scanning a small quadrant at a time “Doesn’t look like there’s any kind of shielding to slow us down” she called out then turning to Nox “You scan the even numbered quadrants while I scan the odd ones.” “Aye Commander” Nox replied looking at Racheal with a smile. The next two hours went by quicker than the Captain had anticipated when he called to Daniel “Engineering how’s the cloaking generator holding up; any concerns” James queried hoping for the best. “The generator is doing fine and no there are no concerns what so ever” he replied. “That’s a relief; but keep a close on it none the less” James ordered with relief in his voice. “As you wish Captain” came the reply. About two hours later “Captain the scans are complete anytime you want to get out of here” Racheal commented “I will transfer the scan data to an extra PADD we have for the Commodore’s use” she commented then turning to Nox “Thank you Lieutenant for your help; it’s very much appreciated.” “You don’t have to tell me twice” James answered with a grin “Helm get us out of here.” Aye Sir” as T’sol plotted the course for return to normal space. Nox smiled at Racheal “You are welcome and anytime you need an extra hand please let me know” she replied as she looked at James “With the Captain’s permission of course.” “I will keep that in mind” Racheal commented “If you wish you may return to Deck 2.” Nox nodded and turned to leave the Bridge. After Nox left Racheal looked at James “Thank you Captain for the extra help; it certainly made my job easier” she said. “Anytime Commander” he replied.

    Four days had passed with the trip home being quite uneventful. The fifth day, late in the afternoon, James looked over at Maria noticing she was leaning on her Console trying to steady herself. James rose from his Command seat and walked over to her placing his hand gently on her shoulder “Lieutenant are you feeling ok” he inquired not liking what he was seeing. Maria looked up and smiled “I’m feeling a little light headed at the moment” she whispered. “That’s not good. I think you need to go to your quarters and lay down; that’s an order. I can handle Tactical” he said with a concerning smile. “Thank you Captain” as she left the Bridge. Tapping his Comm “Computer bring the EMH online please” came the request. “EMH now online” was the reply. “This is the EMH please state the nature of your emergency.” “Doctor please go to Quarters number three, Lieutenant SanChez is laying down complaining of being light headed. Check her out and get back to me” James ordered. “As you wish Captain” the Doctor replied. James could see the concern on the faces of the Bridge Crew “I’m sure she’ll be fine; just a precaution” he explained as everyone went back to there duties. A little while later “Captain this is the Doctor, please meet me in Medical on Deck One.” “On my way Doctor” James replied “Commander you have the Conn” as James hustled to Medical. Arriving he saw a young women wearing a white lab coat “Doctor what seems to be the problem with Lieutenant SanChez” he queried with concern for one of his Crew. “Nothing too serious, she is suffering from sleep deprivation. I administered a mild sedative so she should sleep through the night and can return to duty tomorrow” the EMH replied. A wave of relief came over the Captain “That is good news; I’ll have Lieutenant T’Sol keep a close eye on her until we return to DS9.” “That would be a good course of action. If there’s nothing else I’ll return to standby mode.” “Certainly and thanks for your help” James replied with a smile. “Of course Captain, that is what I am programmed for” the EMH stated before disappearing. James had to chuckle to himself “She sounds just like T’Sol” as he made his way back to the Bridge to give his Crew the good news.

    The following morning Maria was having her coffee in the Mess Hall with the rest of the Crew. Captain Lake walked over to her “Good morning Lieutenant, so how are you feeling this morning” he asked in a low voice so as not to be overheard by the rest of the Crew. “I’m fine Sir and ready to resume my duties” she replied with a smile. “Good but if there is a reason you haven’t been able to sleep, please feel free to discuss it with myself or Commander Reese. Also there are Counselors available on the base you can talk to if you wish since our Ship is attached to the Base” James explained. “Thank you Captain but I can assure you I am fine” Maria replied hoping she was right. “Good then I’ll see you on the Bridge shortly. We should be back to DS7 by late morning.”

    After speaking to the rest of the Crew, which was his usual way each morning, James made his way to the Bridge followed by Racheal, Maria, and T’Sol. Walking onto the Bridge “Computer please return Ship’s functions back to the Crew” he requested. “Ship’s functions returned to the Crew” came the reply. “Just so you know we should be back to DS7 by late morning” he informed everyone. Racheal chimed in “All the scans have been uploaded to this PADD and are ready for the Commodore” she stated as she handed the device to the Captain. “Thank you Commander, I’m sure she’ll be waiting for us when we return.”

    Late morning arrived quickly as Helm handled a flawless landing in their special Docking Bay. After everything was shut down, and the Ship was secured, James opened the Port Hatch letting his Crew file out of the Ship each saying good morning to the Commodore as they left. James was the last to leave and secured the Hatch. Turning to face Rebecca “I think this is what you have been waiting for” as he handed her the PADD. “Thank you James and I take it the cloaking held this time” she queried with a smile. “Yes it did, and Lieutenant Herek did keep a close eye on it while we were taking all the scans you wanted” James replied with a smile. “Excellent. Please get some rest, you deserve it. I’ll have your next Mission ready for you in a few days. In the meantime enjoy some down time” she commented. “Thank you Rebecca I will” James replied with a grin as he walked off going to his quarters.