Mission 7: 'First Contact'

[Andrew Kirk]

“All stations report ready to depart.” Reported the Helm Officer.

Kirk shifted quickly in his chair, he was eager to get underway. Looking down at his armrest Kirk spotted the Engineering sections COM button and pressed it, “Engineering, go ahead and fire up the engines.” Kirk said.

“Aye sir.” Replied Wallace.

After a few moments Kirk could feel the engines coming to life, and there was more than a little part of him that wanted to be down in Engineering when the came back on. He swore there wasn’t anything as pleasant as the sound that the Warp Engines made during start up.

“Engines running at 100%.” Wallace said over the COM.

“You heard the man Ensign,” Kirk said to the Helm Officer, “Take us out.”

“Aye sir.” Replied the Helm Officer.

She’s yours now Captain, make us proud. Kirk remembered the last few words in Admiral Gardner’s last transmission. He found himself very apprehensive at these moments, the level of expectations were high for him. It wasn’t everyday that a normal department head finds his way to the Captain’s chair onboard his own starship. He had to now prove that he belonged here to those who put him in the hot seat.

“We are clear of the station sir.” Informed the Helm Officer.

“Acknowledged.” Kirk replied.

A few interesting sounding beeps came from Jack’s station and Kirk turned his head to see what it was. It seemed odd to Kirk to see Jack smile over the relitivly quick beeps on the bridge but he was.

“What is it?” Kirk asked.

“The station commander wishes us luck on our upcoming mission.” Jack replied.

“Does he now?”

“It would appear that way.” Jack said keeping the smile on his face.

“Maybe I’ve been all wrong about those Vulcans after all.” Kirk said out loud as if he was thinking.

“Course and heading sir?”

Kirk wasn’t sure if he was to keep everything a secret from his crew even though the last transmission was marked SECRET. He had hated the way Nelson had kept the crew in the dark about their last mission and vowed not to repeat Nelson’s mistakes.

“Miranda System, third planet from the sun. It should be uploaded into your star charts.” Kirk said.

The Helm Officer took a few moments to look over the charts and quickly the system that Kirk was talking about, “Got it sir.”

“Warp four.” Kirk ordered.

“Warp four sir, engaging.”

Just as the Helm Officer finished punching in the coordinates the Challenger jumped to warp speed and pressed onto its new mission. The bridge fell silent as it was back to business as usual.

Out of the corner of his eyes Kirk spotted Jack coming his way.

“I’ve invited Wallace along for Poker tonight.” Jack whispered.

“I figured you would.” Kirk replied.

“We’re still on tonight right?” Jack asked.

Kirk frowned for a second, “What’s our ETA to Miranda?” Kirk asked.

“At this course and speed two days.”

“Thank you Ensign.” Kirk said, “Yes it’s still on.”

<TAG ALL>

[michaelwallace]

“Engineering, go ahead and fire up the engines.” Michael heard Captain Kirk’s voice over the Engineering COM.

“Aye Sir” Replied Michael as he pressed the COM button to the Bridge and hit the button to start up the warp core and the engines.

After a couple of minutes the warp engines were online and running at normal parameters. Michael liked the sound of the engines starting up and was enjoying being aboard an NX Class ship and being the Chief Engineer. It had all seemed so surreal a couple of days ago he was sitting on the Vulcan Base waiting but now he was here…

“Engines running at 100%.” Michael said over the COM to the bridge.

Once the engines were up and running, Michael decided to sit at his work area in Main Engineering. He was having a look at the duty schedules and status reports of the engines that he had not really had the opportunity to have a look at. Michael found the humming of the engines soothing as he reviewed all the information he had at his station.

He then noticed an engineer enter that he had not had the opportunity to meet, he approached the engineer who was tall with black hair and stretched out his hand:
“Hi, I’m Mike Wallace. The new Chief Engineer”

“I know who you are Ensign, I’m Robert Cole. Lieutenant Cole to you.” Michael frowned not anticipating such a frosty reply from the engineer,

“Well Lieutenant, you can call me Chief. What are you working on?” Michael made a point of stating Cole’s rank.

“I’m working on some status checks of the reactor coolant conduits.” Lt. Cole then walked over to the conduits.

Michael decided to leave the situation and sit back down at his station. The reaction of Lt. Cole had shocked Michael but he knew there may be some objection to his appointment and he guessed this was it.

The exchange had not gone unnoticed by the other engineers who were gossiping about it already. Michael decided to concentrate on his schedules and deal with Cole later. He knew one thing, Cole would be on the late shift – It seemed like a fitting response. Michael mused.

[Deleted]

"Computer download communication officer report," Jack said as he activated his screen. Reports from around the fleet shortly appeared in front of him. A few months ago the communication officers aboard the NX Class vessels came up with a quicker way of sharing tactical information. They would no longer have to wait for outdated reports or crew roster changes.

Atlantis Status Report Upgrade to secondary hull complete Three roster changes, two engineers and one new medic Romulan Bird of Prey spotted three lightyers away Endeavour Status Report Currently docked at the Vulcan orbital station Commander Ryans has been transferred to Starfleet command The new Executive officer of th e Enterprise Status Report Has not been updated The NX-02 Columbia, NX-04 Discovery, and NX-05 Atlantis are radio silent. Contact Starfleet Command if you have any questions. Next update cycle in in 3 days, 12 hours, and 2 minutes. End Report

"Computer download Challenger's daily report logs and relay them to the NX transmission relays," Jack ordered as he finished his early daily activities and began to look over the latest efficiency reports. Without an acting first officer it fell upon him to pick up the slack.

"Logan to Armory, please be informed that your department will be inspected at 1300 hours"

"Understood, Lawson out"

"Captain I presume you will be inspecting engineering?" Jack asked already knowing that his friend wanted any excuse to see his engines.

(Andy)

[Andrew Kirk]

"Captain I presume you will be inspecting engineering?" Jack asked already knowing that his friend wanted any excuse to see his engines.

“You know that’s not a bad idea.” Kirk said shifting in his chair. He knew he hadn’t had the chance to fully welcome Ensign Wallace to the crew, and above that there were a few officers that Kirk had in mind that would be upset with an outside being brought in to take over Engineering.

“You have the bridge Jack.” Kirk said as he got up from his chair.

Kirk figured that this was probably the best time to finally change out of his Engineering duty uniform. As he stepped into his quarters he spotted the new Command Uniform lying on his bed. Admiral Gardner had placed the order for the new uniform so it would arrive at the same time as the Challenger.

Picking up the jump suit Kirk eyed the colors on the shoulders and then the three pips on the right collar. Captain, Kirk thought to himself, never thought I would be a Captain, Kirk mused.

After a quick change Kirk was on his way down to Main Engineering to check in on his engines and his new Chief Engineer. He passed several familiar faces on the way and each time he felt out of place in his new uniform. The people who had served so closely with were now calling him ‘Sir’, definitely something Kirk was going to have to get used to.

“Where’s Ensign Wallace?” Kirk asked a nearby crewman.

“Last I saw he was working near the engines.” Casually replied the crewman.

“Thanks.” Kirk said.

Just as he walked away from the crewman Kirk was stopped by Lieutenant Cole. Cole wasn’t hiding the fact that he was upset with the recent turn of events.

“What’s going on?” Cole questioned.

“With what?” Kirk asked.

“Ensign Wallace.” Cole shot back, “What’s he doing here?”

“He’s the new Chief Engineer.” Kirk replied. He knew that Lt. Cole had been the next Engineer in line for the job but this new Engineer had come right from the top.

“I know he is, but why is he the new Chief?” Cole again asked.

Out of the corner of Kirk’s eye he saw Wallace stop what he was doing to watch the conversation-taking place. It was then that he finally understood the division that needed to take place between Kirk and the other junior officers he had been so used to working so casually with; there was a Command structure that needed to be informed.

“I’m going to be very blunt Lieutenant,” Kirk said stressing the rank, “Ensign Wallace was my choice. His record impressed me while I was looking over our replacements and I felt he was the best candidate for the job; furthermore I would expect you of all people to understand and respect my decisions. Understood?”

“Yes sir.” Cole replied as he simultaneously held his tongue.

“Good,” Kirk said, “Now carry on.”

Kirk watched Cole walk away and he knew the hotheaded Engineer was still steaming from what Kirk had said. He just hoped that Cole wasn’t able to see right through his lie. Wallace wasn’t his choice, he was Gardner’s choice, but he felt it was right for the ships morale to lie about the appointment.

Deep down inside Kirk still felt as if this was his Engine Room, his domain, and he was going to make sure that whomever was down there was going to be top notch.

“How are things going down here?” Kirk asked Wallace.

<Tag Wallace>

[michaelwallace]

Michael had finished doing the duty schedules. He had done his upmost to keep him and Lt. Cole apart he hoped that by giving Cole some space he would come round to the idea of Michael being the Chief Engineer but it would take time. Michael got up from his work station and approached the engine monitoring station, once there he noticed some abnormal readings in the Deuterium Injection into the reactor. Michael paused for a moment, now what could be doing that he pondered…

After a couple of moments he ascertained that it was a problem with one of the Deuterium Induction Coils. He approached the coils, they were temperamental bits of machinery to say the least, as the Deuterium was still reaching the core, Michael assumed it was just a case of realigning the right coil and the Engine would be running at optimal levels again. Michael called Riggs over:

“Neil, what you working on?”

“I’m just running some more status checks.” Replied Riggs

“Those can wait, come over here. Did you notice any strange readings from the deuterium induction coils?”

“The deuterium injection was slightly elevated on the coil on the right. I did not think it was a problem though.” Riggs responded

“Its not really Neil but I just like my engines running perfectly. Thanks for your help.” Michael acknowledged Neil spotting the elevation, it showed Michael he was learning. Michael had taken Neil under his wing since joining the Challenger, he could tell they were going to be good friends.

As Michael slid underneath the coil to alter its alignment slightly and correct the flow of deuterium he noticed Captain Kirk enter Main Engineering. Kirk stopped and spoke to Lt. Cole, he knew they were talking about him but he had faith in his own ability and knew the Captain had faith in him too. Michael decided to stop dropping eaves and get back to the task at hand. Then Michael heard the voice of the Captain:

“How are things going down here?” Kirk asked Wallace.

“Good, Sir. I’m just adjusting the alignment of this Deuterium Induction Coil as the flow to the reactor is elevated slightly. Can you check the readings on the station next to you, is it operating within normal parameters again?” Michael was not afraid of talking engineering jargon to the Captain he was the previous incumbent of the Chief Engineer position afterall.

“Yeah the flow is no longer elevated Ensign, I’m here for the Engineering Inspection.” Said Kirk as he helped Michael up from the floor.

An inspection Michael thought, Oooh god… Its my first day on the job. Argh and it’s the Captain doing the inspection. Michael had to wipe some beads of sweat from his brow and adjust his jumpsuit as he began to get nervous!

“An inspection, very good Sir. Well as you can see things are running very well the Engineers are just running some checks on the engines and the warp core to make sure everything is going smoothly. I assume you know the personnel so there wont be a need for introductions, why don’t you lead the way Sir?”

Michael wanted the Captain to feel comfortable in Engineering, it was his ship afterall and he felt that the Captain’s knowledge of Engineering would be invaluable to him in the future.

<Tag Kirk>

[Deleted]

Meanwhile, Saryn was working down in sickbay, getting acquainted with his new staff. It was too bad that T'Kara had transferred back to a private practice on Earth but it had opened up the opportunity for Saryn to learn more. Of course he was a trained doctor, but he had specialised in different area's than T'Kara had and now he had to take extra courses to learn.

Fortunately, during their shoreleave, Saryn had been able to do just that, and take the courses on the Vulcan starbase. Now, he had mastered what he needed to know, all he lacked was hands-on practice. For now, he merely observed his nursing staff and assessed their abilities.

A young male nurse approached carrying a box of bandages and set it down on the biobed. "The bandages your ordered doctor," he said brightly, "just what are you going to do with them?"

"You will see," Saryn replied, picking up a roll of elastic bandage and tossed it at the nurse. "Pretend I have come in with a broken arm. What will you do?" To put emphasis on his words, he walked towards the nurse, supporting his left arm.

"Uhm..." Nurse Andrew McCain glanced at the roll in his hands, then at the new doctor, not understanding.

Saryn sighed, a sign of his annoyance. "We are not using high-tech equipment right now," he explained, "I need to know what this staff can do if power fails us. Now, pretend I am a crewmember who has come in with a broken arm, what would you do?"

McCain smiled again, then approached the Vulcan and guided him to a seat. "What happened?" he querried as he took a pair of scissors and carefully cut the Vulcan's sleeve open up to his elbow.

"I was in my quarters trying to fix a light," Saryn replied nochalantly, "the steps I used tipped over and I fell."

McCain frowned up at the Vulcan. "Well, let's have a look," he continued, gently prodding the arm. Of course, since his 'patient' was Vulcan, he never gave an outward sign of discomfort. "Does this hurt?"

"Yes," Saryn responded, "it does. Please do not do that again."

Smiling to himself, the nurse continued to probe the arm then reached for two long thin wooden sticks and a shorter rubber one. "Your arm is broken," McCain concluded, "I am going to have to set it." He handed the rubber rod to Saryn. "You may wish to bite down on this," he suggested as he encouraged the Vulcan to put it between his teeth, "this may hurt. I'm going to give your arm a yank to set the bone."

Raising an eyebrow at the crude method, Saryn obeyed the nurse and watchet with interest anew as the nurse proceeded to give his arm a good yank. Even though in truth he had no broken bones, he still felt it. "You have a strong grip, nurse McCain," he spoke up as he watched the nurse apply the wooden rods together with a roll of cotton wool.

"Thank you sir," Andrew replied as he continued to bandage the arm. "How does this feel? Not too tight? It should hold until we can get this properly plastered."

Saryn nodded as he inspected the bandage. "Well done," he praised, "now you may teach this to your staff. I have to get to the bridge and commence a few inspections there. You are in charge until I return." This was his way to tell the young man he was now promoted to chief nurse.

The Vulcan walked out of sickbay and took the nearest lift to the bridge. "Sickbay is in working order," he reported, "if just the captain would..." He fell silent as he noticed Kirk was in fact not on the bridge. "Where is captain Kirk?"

[Andrew Kirk]

“An inspection, very good Sir. Well as you can see things are running very well the Engineers are just running some checks on the engines and the warp core to make sure everything is going smoothly. I assume you know the personnel so there wont be a need for introductions, why don’t you lead the way Sir?” Wallace said.

“Don’t mind if I do,” Kirk said walking the length of the Warp drive. As he walked he kept one hand behind his back and the other he dragged along the side of the engine, “I’ll keep this short, I know you probably want to make this engine room yours as much as I did when I first arrived.”

There wasn’t much Kirk actually wanted to look at. More than anything he wanted to be back down in Engineering if just for a moment. He also knew the engineers and trusted them with his life; as far as he was concerned they were the best in the fleet.

Looking over the engine efficiency Kirk noticed the engines were running at a rate of one percent higher than he had ever been able to get them to perform. He was inwardly pleased to see that Wallace knew his way around the warp five-class engines.

“I’m impressed.” Kirk said handing back a PDA with the ships current status.

”Thank you sir.” Wallace replied.

“If I may offer one piece of advice.” Kirk said.

“Of course, anything sir.”

“Trust these engineers, they all know what they are doing. I learned that the hard way with many double shifts for no good reason.” Kirk said before he walked away.

“Thank you sir.”

“Oh and Ensign,” Kirk said turning around, “The senior staff is going to be holding a poker game in the Captain’s…my quarters tonight. You’re more than welcome to join us, say 2000 hours.”

<Tag Wallace>

While Kirk walked back to the bridge he felt a new found confidence in himself and of the crew. The ship was running smoothly, there didn’t seem to be any mutiny brewing anywhere on the ship. He felt confident that Ensign Wallace was just the right man to take over Engineering, and that left just Saryn to talk to.

It had been no surprise to anybody that Kirk wasn’t too found of Vulcans when he first joined Challenger but his rough exterior had been washed away as time went on. He now found Saryn to be a rather interesting Vulcan and say the slightest bit of Humanity inside him. Nobody was happy when Saryn has killed several security guards in the past but to Kirk it showed him the rage that flowed in the depths of that one Vulcan.

It was that reason, that humanity that Kirk decided to not report Saryn’s actions to Admiral Gardner or the base commander. Through thick and thin this crew had become a family and Kirk would be damned if he let an outside authority judge Saryn harshly because of his actions during the heat of the moment.

Stepping onto the bridge Kirk saw Saryn standing near Jack, “Just the Vulcan I was looking for,” Kirk said, “Do we have all the composites that we talked about?”

”Yes we do.” Saryn replied.

“Good, I want you to take this,” Kirk pulled out a PDA from his pocket and handed it to Saryn, “This is data I got from Admiral Gardner about the race on the third planet in the Miranda system. I would like you to make all the necessary arrangements.”

<Tag Saryn>

[michaelwallace]

“Oh and Ensign,” Kirk said turning around, “The senior staff is going to be holding a poker game in the Captain’s…my quarters tonight. You’re more than welcome to join us, say 2000 hours.”

“Thank you for the invite Sir. I’ll be sure to be there. Feel free to visit Engineering, you’re always welcome here.” Michael knew fine well that the Captain could come to Engineering when he pleased and did not need his permission. But Michael was letting him know that he valued his counsel and insight.

Ushering over Ensign Riggs, he asked him to give him an up-to-date status report on the engines since they had been travelling at warp.

“Neil,” Michael said, “Can you find me the up-to-date status reports on engine performance since we’ve been at warp 4.”

“Here they are Chief, I had them ready for you.” Replied Ensign Riggs eagerly as he passed Michael a PDA. Michael liked the enthusiasm displayed by his colleague.

“Thank you, that will be all Neil.” Michael replied as he slouched down into the chair at his workstation.

Michael was reviewing the engine performance, warp 4 was the normal warp travelled by the NX-Class ship. The engines were designed for warp 5 but it was not recommended that they were pushed that hard. Knowing this Michael liked to make sure everything was running as it should be, as the reactor hummed in the background Michael was thinking about the big poker match tonight.

Michael was looking forward to getting to know the senior staff more, he couldn’t help thinking back to the advice the Captain had given him. “Trust these engineers, they all know what they are doing. I learned that the hard way with many double shifts for no good reason.” Michael could not help but think that he needed to speak to Lt. Cole…

With that in mind he called over Lucy who was working on the monitoring station by the warp reactor. “Lucy, when you see Lieutenant Cole can you inform him that I’d like to speak with him.”

“Of course Chief” Lt Scott replied cheerily.

“Thanks Lucy” Michael stared at his PDA again, he hoped speaking to Cole would be the right move.

[Deleted]

"The arrangements have already been made captain," Saryn replied as he took the PDA and slid it into the pocket of his coat. "The change of appearance will have to take place as soon as possible. Lieutenant Commander Logan and Ensign Wallace have been cleared for the operation, they have just had their medical. Before I clear you and start you up for the procedure I will need to give you a medical. Admiral Garner's orders sir."

The Vulcan paused as he waited for Kirk to answer, knowing quite well how hard it was for a commanding officer to be called in for his medical. Saryn knew he would quite likely avoid sickbay at all cost if he were a commanding officer. There was just something about being a captain and making a sport of it to avoid sickbay, or so it seemed to the Vulcan.

"This procedure requires a twenty-four hour observation, though it is not required to remain in sickbay for it. For us to look like Mirandonians, " Saryn had taken to calling them as there was no official name for them yet, "it will require extensive treatment, and it will not be pleasurable either. In fact, you may even feel ill during the prodedure. If you come with me now, we can start tomorrow morning."

He certainly didn't want to spoil the captain's poker night by all of them feeling ill. "On a side-note, should I bring anything for your poker night?"

[Andrew Kirk]

Twenty four hours observation time, Kirk thought, that’s cutting it mighty close.

"On a side-note, should I bring anything for your poker night?"

“Yeah,” Kirk said, “Bring your scalpel.”

Kirk walked quickly and sat down in his chair and started to ponder the time frame in front of him. It seemed for the sake of the mission that poker night was going to have to be put off once again.

“Saryn, I want you to get started on Jack and Ensign Wallace at once,” Kirk said while she turned to face Saryn, “After they are done and able to come back to duty, then you can do me. I want you down on the planet just in case things go wrong, can one of your nurses perform this operation on you?”

<Tag Saryn>

After hearing Saryn’s answer Kirk gave him the go ahead to get started as soon as possible. Before Jack left the bridge he wanted to make sure orders were clear for when he came back.

Kirk walked over to his good friend and in a causal tone he said, “Jack, once you get back on duty I want you to hold down the fort until my operation is done.”

<Tag Jack>

[Deleted]

"Where is captain Kirk?" Saryn asked.

"Well hello to you Saryn," Jack said from his station," the Captain is currently inspecting engineering and I bet he'll be pleased to know that sickbay is fully operational. Though I hope I don't have see its walls that often. "Anyways please do come to our poker game tonight, I plan on taking all of Andy's chips today."

“Just the Vulcan I was looking for,” Kirk said, “Do we have all the composites that we talked about?”

~He always has the knack of appearing out of nowhere doesn't he~ Jack mused to himself as he started to work on his reports once again, all the while listening in on their conversation.

“Saryn, I want you to get started on Jack and Ensign Wallace at once,” Kirk said while she turned to face Saryn, “After they are done and able to come back to duty, then you can do me. I want you down on the planet just in case things go wrong, can one of your nurses perform this operation on you?”

When Saryn was done with the PDA, Jack took it from him and looked at the specifics. This would be a new experience for him, one that he was very excited about. The last First Contact was a total disaster, but this time they were ready.

“Jack, once you get back on duty I want you to hold down the fort until my operation is done.”

"Understood, captain," Jack replied," sir, I was wondering if Starfleet has any information on these peoples language? I would like to make a translation program, but I need something to work with."

(Andy)

"Saryn, will this surgery involve anything more than cosmetic changes?" Jack asked," and do you know how long it might take."

(Saryn)

[michaelwallace]

Staring at the duty schedules, Michael was waiting for Lt. Cole to come down to Engineering. He had been working at the engineering area on the Bridge at his request. Finally, Lt. Cole walked into main engineering. Michael waved him over and could tell by the look on Cole’s face that he was not happy.

“Lieutenant have a seat.” Michael said as he stood up and instructed Cole to sit down.

“These are the duty schedules, as you can see no shift has either of us at the same place at the same time. What do you think about that?” Michael asked

“Fine by me, is that all?” Replied Cole in an apathetic tone

“You are one of the senior engineers on this ship, I would like to work with you and your experience may be invaluable to me. I know it will take me time to earn your respect as Captain Kirk did but I would appreciate it if you would give me a chance.” Michael said staring straight at Lieutenant Cole.

There was silence for a moment and then Cole replied:
“I suppose I could do that for the good of the ship it would be unfair to deprive Engineering of my talents.” He replied flippantly.

“Good, now I’m going to re-do the schedules and then hand them to the Captain on the Bridge. You have Engineering, Cole.”
Michael smiled and then turned around and headed for the door. Michael hoped he had gotten through to Lieutenant Cole.

--------------------------------------------

The truth was Michael had already made up a different duty schedule with himself and Cole working together. He had just used the other schedule as a visual aid in his talk with Cole. He took the lift up to the Bridge and grabbed his PDA out of his jumpsuit pockets. Once on the Bridge Michael noticed Saryn, Andy & Jack all discussing something, curious to what it was Michael just walked over.

“Here are the Engineering duty schedules and some minor updates.” Michael handed the PDA to Captain Kirk.

“So are we all still on for Poker tonight?” Said Michael oblivious to the fact he had an operation in store for him.

<Tag All>

[Deleted]

“Saryn, I want you to get started on Jack and Ensign Wallace at once,” Kirk said while she turned to face Saryn, “After they are done and able to come back to duty, then you can do me. I want you down on the planet just in case things go wrong, can one of your nurses perform this operation on you?”

The Vulcan nodded. "My new chief nurse should be able to perform the operation on me, once I have given him the specifics of this particular procedure," he answered, though he didn't sound too happy on the fact that he too was to be transformed into a Mirandosian.

"Saryn, will this surgery involve anything more than cosmetic changes?" Jack asked," and do you know how long it might take."

"The entire procedure will take about an hour, but it requires a 24-hour observation. You are not required to remain in sickbay, and are advised to continue your daily routine as usual. You may, however feel extremely uncomfortable with your appearance. And no it will not require more than cosmetic changes just yet. Until we know more about the Mirandosians, as I have called them for now, nothing more is required."

The Vulcan motioned for Jack and Michael to follow him, then started towards the lift that would take them back to sickbay.

“So are we all still on for Poker tonight?”

Saryn turned. "This procedure should not put that off," he answered, glancing at Jack for agreement, "we would probably all feel a little...funny, but that should not spoil your fun."

They arrived at sickbay and Saryn put both his patients at ease while they lay down on a bed. "I am going to sedate you both," he explained, "you will both be anaesthesized for this procedure, and you may feel a little sick when you wake up. However, that is nothing to be concerned about."

He placed a mask over both their faces, activating the controls that would release the anaestethics into their system. Soon, both men were breathing easily as their signs displayed them to be in a deep sleep. "Andrew," Saryn motioned his head nurse forward, then explained the procedure to him. "You will have to perform this on me, once we are done with these two gentlemen. Are you comfortable in doing this?"

Andrew McCain paled only slightly, but recovered quickly. "Yes sir," he answered confidently, as he glanced over the procedure, "with Nurse Elisa's assistance, I am confident in carrying out this procedure. Shall we start?"

An hour later, both patients were completely transformed. Their skin had been turned a translucent white, as though completely bloodless. Their hair had been turned jet-black, as were their irises. Their fingers had been lenthened by a centimeter, their nails a little longer than usual and neatly polished. Their lips were a deep red, as though they were wearing lipstick and their canine teeth had been sharpened just a little.

"They look like the mythical vampires," McCain breathed when he saw the result.

Saryn nodded quietly. "What concerns me is what their reaction will be," he answered, just as Kirk walked in for the procedure to be performed on. "Who has been left in command of the bridge?" Saryn asked, as Kirk took place on a biobed.

An hour later, Logan and Wallace started stirring, just as Kirk was still lying asleep on his bed. "Return to your quarters and rest," Saryn told both officers, then lay back on one of the beds they had vacated.

"Ready?" McCain asked as he slipped the mask over Saryn's face.

"No," Saryn answered, "but you must proceed." His words slurred as the anaestethic took effect and soon he was deeply asleep. An hour later he woke feeling utterly sick and upon the nurse's encouragement, returned to his quarters to rest.

Two hours later, he woke again and he walked down to Kirk's quarters, taking a laser scalpel as he was suggested to do. He was also carrying a brand new deck of cards hidden under his long deep red cape. He felt different, and felt the need to act differently, in addition to getting ready to play the part of a Mirandosian.

[michaelwallace]

“Saryn, I want you to get started on Jack and Ensign Wallace at once,” Kirk said while he turned to face Saryn, “After they are done and able to come back to duty, then you can do me. I want you down on the planet just in case things go wrong, can one of your nurses perform this operation on you?”

Michael’s ears perked up, what the hell Michael thought - wait a minute what is going on here? I must have forgot to read the memo he chuckled to himself.

"The entire procedure will take about an hour, but it requires a 24-hour observation. You are not required to remain in sickbay, and are advised to continue your daily routine as usual. You may, however feel extremely uncomfortable with your appearance. And no it will not require more than cosmetic changes just yet. Until we know more about the Mirandosians, as I have called them for now, nothing more is required."

It all made sense to Michael now, he was going on a first contact mission. In future he would have to make sure he knew what he was letting himself in for he thought. Michael followed Saryn and Jack down to Sickbay, he was feeling a little uneasy with going under the knife but he would be sedated for the procedure. Michael felt like he had been out for at least an hour or 2 as he began to stir on the bed, he heard Saryn’s voice: "Return to your quarters and rest"

Michael was curious to see what he looked like, he turned to Jack who had also been transformed. Michael let out a chuckle at his superior who now looked like a mythical vampire.

“You should see yourself Sir, you’re a sight for sore eyes.” Michael couldn’t help but laugh.
<Jack>
“Sorry Commander, its just you look like a vampire!”
<Jack>

As the realisation that he would look similar to Commander Logan sunk in, Michael stared at his reflection on a console screen, Michael was shell shocked, what had Saryn done to him… His features had completely changed, he did not even resemble his former self, he knew he was the same underneath but he looked like a monster.

“I can’t go down to Engineering looking like this…” Michael moaned.
“Vulcans” Michael muttered under his breathe so no-one else could hear.

“I guess we should probably go to our quarters?”
Michael said turning to Jack, as both men were still standing in the entrance to sickbay.

<Tag Jack>

[Andrew Kirk]

"Who has been left in command of the bridge?" Saryn asked as Kirk stepped into Sickbay.

“Right now Ensign Martinez is in command. Once Jack is back on his feet I’ve asked him to take over Command until the procedure has been completed on me.” Kirk replied.

Kirk looked past Saryn and saw both Jack and Wallace checking out their new faces in the mirror. Kirk couldn’t help but snicker about how they looked; it reminded him of an old holiday on Earth, Halloween.

He knew this was a serious situation, as they would have to become experts on this new civilization before they could proceed to the surface, so it was best to get the fun and games out of the way.

“Looking good Jack, looking good.” Kirk said with a gigantic smile.

“This way sir.” One of the nurses interrupted while at the same time showing Kirk to his bed.

“This going to hurt?” Kirk asked as he sat down on the bed.

“You shouldn’t feel a thing.” Replied the nurse.

“Good.”

“If you could relax sir.” Said the Nurse with face mask in his hand, “Just breath normal.”

Kirk took a few deep breaths of the foul tasting gas. He felt his head start to spin and the words the Nurse was saying became garbled.

“Count back from ten for me.”

“Ten, nine, eight, seeeven, sixxxxxxx, fiiiivvveee…ffffffooouurrrr….

The next thing Kirk knew he was back in his quarters. He felt a slight headache from the procedure and then found a note and a cup of pills sitting next to his bed. The note was instructions for pain medication.

“Drink plenty of water.” Kirk read out loud.

Just as the popped the two pills in his mouth his door chime beeped. Swallowing hard with the little amount of water he had Kirk called out, “Come in.”

His door opened and before him stepped a Vampire. The procedure was so good that Kirk couldn’t even tell who it was that was standing before him. It wasn’t until he saw a laser scalpel in the Vampires hand that he had an idea of who it was.

“Saryn?” Kirk asked.

<Tag ALL>

[Deleted]

The first sensation he felt as he woke were the larger teeth. As a linguist he knew the importance of teeth and the physical properties of the face. To the normal human ear there would be no change in his speech, but Jack already knew that it wouldn't be the same. A split second later, he felt his body's reaction to the change. He wanted to gag almost immedieatley.

“You should see yourself Sir, you’re a sight for sore eyes.” Michael couldn’t help but laugh.

"What are you talking about Ensign?" Jack asked confused still unable to see clearly.

“Sorry Commander, its just you look like a vampire!”

Jack focused his eyes and looked at his hands which were now ghostly white. He already knew that he was different, but it was now sinking in that his mother wouldn't even recognize him at the momemnt.

“I can’t go down to Engineering looking like this…” Michael moaned.

"I'm afraid you do not have a choice Ensign, as the new chief engineer you need to be able to take a few stares from your men and women," Jack said," they will snicker and you will let it roll off your back."

“I guess we should probably go to our quarters?”
Michael said turning to Jack, as both men were still standing in the entrance to sickbay.

"Yes, and try to get a couple hours of sleep," Jack said," our bodies will need a bit more time to adjust to the change."

“Looking good Jack, looking good.” Kirk said with a gigantic smile.

"Yeah, well just think we will be celebrating Halloween for the next month," Jack said as he opened his mouth revealing his teeth.

"I'll get the poker game going after we have all recovered," Jack said as Andy was led to the biobed. All Jack needed was a black overcoat and he would look like a 21st century vampire.

"Ensign, I'll be down in engineering along side you if you want the moral support," Jack said before walking off not caring if anyone saw his new look.

(Michael)

[michaelwallace]

"I'll get the poker game going after we have all recovered," Jack said

Poker, looking like this Michael thought – I actually look like death warmed up. Marko was not entirely comfortable with his ‘new look’ but he decided it best just to think of the surgery as a costume. Which he had to wear for a while, which it really was – Michael had not actually changed underneath he was still human – at least he thought he was.

"Ensign, I'll be down in engineering along side you if you want the moral support," Jack said before walking off not caring if anyone saw his new look.

“Actually Commander, I may take you up on that offer. But first I’m going to have some rest in my quarters. Then I’ll head to Engineering and continue my shift. Doctors orders afterall. ” Michael mused as he left headed for his quarters.

On his way to his quarters Michael got a few strange looks from members of the crew and found himself apologising frequently for his appearance. Why he was apologising he did not know but he did not want to startle any of the crew.

Passing Engineering he had to enter and explain his appearance and request an update. Lt. Cole was overseeing things and gave Michael a strange look as he approached.

“Lieutenant, I’m Wallace – cant you recognise me?” Michael asked the tall Lieutenant

“No Chief, you look ridiculous. What is this, your Halloween costume?” Cole chuckled.

“I’m afraid not Lieutenant, Its for a first contact mission in the Miranda system. I have to go and get some rest according to the good Vulcan doctor. Can you pass me a PDA with the updates on the Engines and any reports.” Michael instructed

“Here you go Chief, enjoy your bed rest.” Replied Cole, Michael could tell that his transformation had gotten round the Engineering staff as they were all smiling at him. He knew everyone was going to start laughing after he left.

“Thanks Cole, look after Engineering while I’m away.”

With that Michael left and headed for his quarters. It was a short walk to his quarters from Engineering but Michael felt extremely faint arriving in his quarters he collapsed onto the bed, knocking his PDA onto the floor.

[Deleted]

Saryn inclined his head ever so slightly in a way of greeting as he folded back the hood of his cape. His face had been partially obscured in the shadows that his hood had cast over his face, but now he had to squint against the bright light that came from Kirk's quarters. "Yes captain," he replied as he stepped in past the commanding officer. "How are you feeling captain? Suffering any side effects that I may have missed?"

The Vulcan sat down on one of the chairs at a wooden table and placed down the deck of cards and the laser scalpel. He still didn't understand the need to bring a surgical tool to a poker game, but if Kirk felt it was needed, then he would bring the required item.

"I feel uncomfortable in this attire," Saryn confessed as he toyed with the deck of cards, "I feel the need to act differently and it does not feel right. Bright light has started to bother me, as my eyes have become suddenly very sensitive and I find myself craving for foods I normally would not consume."

Frowning, he gazed up at Kirk. "I realise we now look like the mythical vampires of Earth, as described in many ancient novels, but I doubt these Mirandosians are the ruthless bloodcraving creatures vampires are thought to be. Nevertheless, we should be prepared to act as such." He offered a small smile, thereby showing his newly grown fangs. "These worry me the most," he sighed, then all of a sudden his attitude changed completely again.

Saryn put the stack of decks down in one resolute motion. "What is keeping Commander Logan and Ensign Wallace?"

[Andrew Kirk]

"What is keeping Commander Logan and Ensign Wallace?" "What is keeping Commander Logan and Ensign Wallace?"

“Not sure,” Kirk said as he rose from his seat and move toward the COM button against the wall.

“Are you feeling any adverse effects from the procedure?” Saryn again asked as Kirk reached the COM device.

Kirk stopped at the COM and thought about Saryn’s question for a moment. He hadn’t really felt bad but he felt tired. He just chalked it up to the anesthetics they had used on him in sickbay, “Just a little tired still.” Kirk finally replied.

He watched as Saryn simply nodded. That single action put Kirk’s worries aside and now he knew the way he was feeling was normal. Pushing the COM button on the speaker he called up to the bridge, “Kirk to the bridge.”

“Ensign Martinez here sir.”

“Has Commander Logan been on the bridge?” Kirk asked.

“Not yet sir.”

“If he does manage to make his way to the bridge would you tell him he is running late.” Kirk said with a smile on his face. He suddenly felt the overly large canine teeth pushing on the inside of his mouth as he smiled.

“Sir?” Martinez questioned.

“He’ll know what I’m talking about. Kirk out.”

Kirk turned a quarter of a turn to face Saryn who was starting to shuffle the brand new deck of cards. Kirk noted the precision in which Saryn was able to shuffle; something he could never get the hang of.

“Look like we are going to have to wait for Jack.” Kirk said.

“He could be in his quarters as I recommended.”

“Good point,” Kirk said turning back to face the COM device, “Jack, it’s Andy, are you there?”

Kirk waited but there was no response. The only thing Kirk thought was that Jack was on his way to the poker game. He did have one last idea on where to look.

“Kirk to Engineering.”

“Cole here sir.”

“Have you seen Commander Logan or Ensign Wallace down there?”

“Ensign Wallace was in Engineering but he retired to his quarters some time ago.” Cole replied.

“And Commander Logan?”

“Haven’t seen him around these parts sir. I’m sure a sensor jockey might stand out like a sore thumb down here.”

“Good point,” Kirk said with a smile. He remembered when the engineers coined the phrase ‘Sensor Jockey’ for those who were not ‘Grease Monkeys’ as the Engineers liked to be called, “If you happen to see him have him get a hold of me.”

“Will do sir.” Cole replied.

“Thanks, Kirk out,” Kirk said and turn pulled his thumb from the COM button. He watched as normally the blood would travel right back into his thumb and return his normal skin tone back but this time it stayed pale white, “Looks like we wait then.” Kirk said not taking his eyes off his thumb.

[michaelwallace]

Michael was still lying out cold on the bed, there was a loud bang on the door. Then the door was pryed open, it was Ensign Neil Riggs. “Chief, Chief, are you okay?” He said shaking Michael as if to wake him from a deep sleep. Neil did not even seem fazed by the appearance of his superior. He pressed the Com button on the wall, “sickbay I need a doctor in Ensign Wallace’s room now!” Neil placed Michael in the recovery position and checked his breathing.

Moments later, Andrew McCain the Chief Nurse appeared. He checked Michael’s vitals and paused for a moment. His symptoms matched that of a hyper allergic reaction to the anaesthetic used in the surgery. McCain quickly pulled a needle out from his medical bag, and injected Michael in the arm, it would only be a matter of minutes before Michael regained consciousness. Michael awoke in his bed to McCain and Riggs sitting staring at him, “What’s going on? What are you two doing here?” Michael asked in a weary tone.

“You had a hyper allergic reaction to the anaesthetic used in the surgery. You are lucky Ensign Riggs checked on you” Replied McCain
“Has this ever happened to you before?”

“No, I’ve never needed surgery before. What happened to me, I’m feeling fine.” Michael stood up.

“Okay, I will mention you have an allergy to anaesthetic in your medical file and you will have to report to Dr Saryn for a medical.” McCain left the room

A medical not again, Michael mused.

“Chief, the Captain is looking for you. He is in his quarters.”

Oooh yes, Michael realised Poker. “Thanks Neil, and thanks for looking out for me.”

“Yes sir”, Michael walked out of his quarters alongside Neil and headed for the Captain’s quarters.

Arriving at the door, he opened it and found Saryn and Andrew sitting shuffling the cards and playing a hand of Blackjack. Michael had a seat and then exclaimed:

“You wont believe what happened to me, I had a hyper allergic reaction to the anaesthetic used in surgery. Cool huh?” Michael smiled.

<Tag Andrew/Saryn>

[Deleted]

"Indeed not," Saryn replied, momentarily ceasing his shuffling activities. "That should not have occurred. When this mission is over I am going to run a full allergy test on you, so that this will not occur again. In the mean time, how do you feel now? Any ... odd urgencies?"

He had been under Kirk's close scrutiny for he past minutes now, and the Vulcan felt that the Human was preying on him, regardless of how ridiculous that sounded, even to his own logical mind. At least Wallace was still a few meters away, but Kirk was closer.

"Captain are you all right?" he asked after several minutes of silence.

(ooc shortie...gotta go am running on batteries...and a quick response here may edit, or may not. May post again tomorrow evening. feel free to take this anywhich way)

[Andrew Kirk]

"Captain are you all right?" Saryn asked with what seemed to Kirk as the slightest bit of worry hin his voice.

"I feel fine," Kirk replied, "but I'll make sure to report any unsual feelings to you if I get them."

Kirk watched with interest as Saryn continued to examine Wallace. He watched wtin interest as Saryn scanned Wallace with his hand held scanner and checked his vital signs. It reminded Kirk of working in Engineering, checking engines for problems and causes for power failure. He found it amusing how he was suddenly comparing human beings to engines.

"So Mr. Wallace do you feel well enough to play a few hands?" Kirk asked.

<Tag Wallace>

off: a shorty right back at ya.

[michaelwallace]

"Indeed not," Saryn replied, momentarily ceasing his shuffling activities. "That should not have occurred. When this mission is over I am going to run a full allergy test on you, so that this will not occur again. In the mean time, how do you feel now? Any ... odd urgencies?"

“I’m feeling fine. Doctor” Michael answered, as Saryn proceeded to scan Michael.
“As for any odd urges, not that I can think of. I was a little susceptible to bright light when I awoke but that’s nothing new. Nope I feel in tip top shape.” Michael continued

The Doctor just gazed across at Michael, Michael felt slightly uneasy it was like the Doctor was thinking about biting him. Michael thought he saw the Doctor lick his lips but he assumed that he had imagine it.

It was just then that Andrew asked:
"So Mr. Wallace do you feel well enough to play a few hands?"

Michael quickly turned his head to face the Captain as he replied enthusiastically:
“Yes sir, I’m up for playing some hands of poker. Texas hold’em I presume?” He asked Andrew

<Tag Andrew>

Once the Captain had finished Michael just realised that Jack was not with them.
“Erm… where is Commander Logan? Shouldn’t he have gotten here by now?”

<Tag All>

OOC: A nice short one back as well, Now where is Commander Logan?

[Deleted]

His new appearance would be something to get used to, but he was positive that he would get used to it. As he looked at his reflection in his mirror he felt as if something was missing. His jump suit didn't fit with the look, so he decided to change it. Without another second thought, Jack removed his uniform and started to dig through his closet for the right attire.

=^=Bridge to Commander Logan=^=

=^=Logan here=^= Jack replied as he pressed the Com button

=^=Captain Kirk has been asking for you=^=

=^=Alright I'll be there in a few minutes=^= Jack responded with amusement. He had totally forgotten about the poker game, but it would be the best place to show off his new look.

Jack knew that his new attire would cause a strange reaction from the crew, but he felt confident about his decision. His pale skin was in direct contrast to his wardrobe which was completely black.

As he neared Andy's quarters he could distinctly hear some activity inside. As he quickened his pace he entered the quarters to find a very disturbing site.

"Ensign what the hell are you doing?" Jack asked.

[Deleted]

OFF: warning, threeway JP! And a very monstrous post...read at your own peril. (we got carried away, sorry!)

"Texas Hold'm?" Saryn raised an eyebrow at the young chief engineer. "What does 'hold them' have to do with a card game?"

"Its a type of poker which was played on earth in the 20th century." Michael glanced back at the Doctor with a strange lust for blood. He was leering at the Doctor like he was a piece of meat.

"I fear I am unfamiliar with the rules of this game," Saryn answered, leaning over to hand Wallace his deck of cards, "perhaps you would like to deal and explain what is required for this game?" The Vulcan was oblivious to the Human's hungering stares and glanced earnestly at the Human, waiting for him to take the offered deck from his outstretched hand.

“Each player is dealt two cards, face down. A round of betting takes place, after the betting the dealer then flips the next three cards face up on the table. These cards are called the flop. Eventually, a total of five community cards will be placed face up on the table. You can use any combination of the cards and their own two cards to form the best possible five-card Poker hand.Its easy once you get the hang of it!” Michael responded to the vulcan’s question, he could not help himself the blood lust had got the better of him.

Michael leapt up from his chair and opened his mouth revealing his sharpened teeth almost like fangs and charged at the vulcan.

Saryn was trapped between the table and his own seat; there was no way he could leap up to get away in time. "Ensign!" he called, trying to call the officer to order. He dropped the cards he was dealt and swung up his arm in defense. The force of Wallance landing on him knocked the both of them over.

The last thing before hitting the deck was seeing Kirk's shocked expression. "Ensign, you are not a vampire," Saryn tried to convince the young chief engineer, as he tried to fight him off, "come with me to sickbay and we will have you checked over again."

Michael had the good Doctor right where he wanted him he had him pinned down, Michael drew his head back to bite the vulcan. Pushing his head down he felt the vulcan’s arm knock his jaw and knock some sense into Michael. He could hear the Doctor speaking to him but he felt like some sort of animal within had taken him over it was only for a matter of seconds. Regaining control of his body Michael leapt up releasing the Doctor and apologised.

“I’m sorry Saryn, I don’t know what came over me. I think it best for my own safety and that of crews that I am confined to quarters” Michael was embarrassed to say the least, Andrew and Saryn both looked shocked.

Saryn felt Wallace's strong grip on his throat but managed to free his arm and knock him aside. "Get a hold of yourself ensign," Saryn snapped, raising himself up on his elbows. Yet Michael's action awakened something in himself, something he had somehow sensed in Kirk as well. At that moment, Logan walked into the room.

"Ensign what the hell are you doing?" Jack asked.

Michael heard a voice from behind him, "Ensign what the hell are you doing?” it was the voice of Commander Logan. Michael spun round quickly, he was feeling trapped in the situation and had an urge to run from it.

Turning to face Commander Logan Michael made a run for the door.

Saryn remained where he was for several seconds, unmoving except for his eyes. He followed Michael's gaze to Logan, then watched him bolt towards the door. "Ensign Wallace was momentarily unwell commander," Saryn explained as he accepted the Human's help to get to his feet. "Is that not correct ensign? I believe you were explaining this texas hold'm to me..."

He stood now face to face with Logan, and with his back to Wallace, yet he was keenly aware of the young human's presence as he was on full alert now. Alert, and trying to fight the daemon within himself.

“You’re not going anywhere Ensign,” Jack said as he blocked the only way out of Andy’s quarters,” it seems that these changes have produced some unexpected results. As you can see, I have also been affected.”

As Jack blocked the door, Michael realised there was no escape.

"Yes, I don't know what came over myself. I can only apologise for my actions." He turned to Saryn. "I believe I should be confined in isolation in Sickbay for the moment, I am a danger to myself and the crew." Michael suggested to the Doctor.

"Saryn do you think he should be confined?" Jack asked.

Saryn shook his head in response. "Then we all are a danger to the crew. As long as we remain here, before beaming down to the planet, this is confinement enough. I do not believe isolation is necessary. You believe you are a vampire, we all believe it to some extend. This belief triggers certain needs, but we can try to control them. And biting eachother will not harm us." Saryn raised an eyebrow at Wallace. "You are welcome to try."

"Is there any way to reduce these urges?" Jack asked," personally I don't want to bite any of you and I want it to stay that way."

Michael let out a laugh as the Doctor gave Michael an ultimatum to try and bite him. He paused for a moment, “I feel perfectly fine now, I really don’t understand what came over me. If we can all keep one another from losing control then Saryn’s suggestion may just work.”

“How long until we reach the planet?” Michael added.

"Seventeen hours until we reach the planet," Jack answered,"but we will have to wait until update my universal translator. We also have to make sure that we have mimicked them perfectly."

Saryn nodded towards Logan's clothing. "Then you may wish to change your attire," he suggested, as he handed the deck of cards back to Wallace. "You were explaining this game to me," he encouraged the young ensign, "you dealt me two cards. And now?" He couldn't help but think Wallace was still fighting his urge to bite him, but he also didn't fail to notice Kirk hadn't moved from his seat during all this at all.

"I'd rather not, I like the way I look at the moment," Jack replied with a hint of anger towards Saryn. Jack didn't know it right then, but he had instinctively bared his teeth in aggression.

Saryn blinked at seeing Logan's fangs and took a small step back. Then he turned around and sat back down, turning his back towards Logan. "As you wish." He nudged the chief engineer again, to continue his explanation.

"Now we can bet, you look at your cards. If you want to bet you put your chips in if not you say 'check'. Then the next 3 cards are flipped face up and you can use these cards to improve your hand. You then have the choice to bet again or to check again and then the next card is flipped, then there is another round of betting and the final card is flipped. The player with the best 5 card hand from card hand from their 2 cards and any of the 5 face up ones wins. Okay?”

Michael stared across at Saryn, the urge to bite the vulcan had subsided but Michael could still feel the hunger inside him. Michael then said, “I go first so I’ll check” and then stared back at the vulcan. "You're go now, you can check or raise. Before we filp up the 3 cards from the top of the deck."

Michael had noticed Commander Logan's aggresive motions towards Saryn, Saryn had turned his back it was almost like he was inviting an attack.

Hearing Michael's voice explain the rules to Texas hold'em brought Jack out of his little trance. He took his seat next to Andy and waited quietly for the engineer to finish his explanation.

~What the hell was that~Jack asked himself as looked at the Vulcan who now in a defensive stance.

"Andy, do you feel anything weird happening to you?" Jack asked.

(Andy)

Saryn peered at his cards, then tapped the table as he'd seen Michael do and placed his bet. "I believe it is now Jack's turn to..check?" He gazed up at the communications chief, briefly baring his teeth in what had to pass for a grin.

Jack looked at his cards and saw that he had nothing. He had a three of spades and a seven of clubs. He would try and bluff his way towards a win. "I'll raise it twenty."

"Andy your turn," Jack said.

(Andy)

Michael looked at his cards a King of Clubs and a 2 of Clubs. The Communications officer had raised to twenty. "I'll match your 20 Commander." As Michael threw his chips in the middlehe gazed across at Andrew, he had not said much during the incidents earlier. Michael began to feel paranoia knawing at him, maybe Andrew was waiting for his moment to strike. Michael stared across at Andrew, watching him very closely.

"I will match you too," Saryn echoed, adding the same amount of chips that Wallace had. He had no idea whether he had a good hand, as the value of the cards meant nothing to him.

Michael flipped the next 3 cards as all players had matched Jack's bet. They revealed a 2 of spades, a 7 of hearts and a 10 of spades. Michael turned to Jack, betting would start with him as he raised last time... "Your bet Jack"

"I'll raise you fifty," Jack said knowing that there was no way he could actually win with these cards. He could only hope that they took his bluff.

(andy)

Michael had a pair of 2s and Jack had re-raised. Michael gazed across at Jack, was he bluffing or did he have something. Michael felt he did not have enough to take the chance. "I'll fold" Michael grumbled.

As he put his cards to the bottom of the deck, "Your bet Doctor"

Saryn added the required amount of chips, then added the same amount and doubled it again. "I will see you, and raise you one hundred," the Vulcan challenged. He had one ace and a male picture with a crown, which he assumed was called a king.

Michael flipped the next card which revealed a King of Diamonds. He was eager to see who would win the hand now that he was no longer playing.

Saryn watched as Michael flopped open the last card, which was yet another two. "I will see your cards now," Saryn challenged, then reached for another chip. "And I will raise you five hundred."

Andy had folded by now, so it was between the doctor and the communications chief.

Michael looked on as Jack raised another 100, he had raised at every chance he got. Michael believed that he must have had a good hand. However, Saryn raised 500. It would take a brave man to see the challenge of 500. Michael waited in disbelief to see what Jack would do!

"That's it," Jack said as he placed all of his entire chips on the bet.

Michael gasped in disbelief, this hand had felt like it was going on for hours and Jack had gone all in. What would the vulcan do, the logical thing would have been to fold unless Saryn had a really good hand. Michael turned to Saryn and awaited his bet.

Saryn made a point of flashing another daring grin at the Human, then took a long moment of debate, glancing from his two cards to the five cards displayed on the table. By now he had figured out his king would match the king on the table, but would not match anything else. Very slowly, he folded down his cards and slid them towards Wallace. "Fold," he said ever so calmly.

Michael collected the cards from Saryn and Jack and passed the deck to Andrew who was to be dealer next. Jack had a big grin on his face as he had just won the first hand. Michael smiled and said: "Start as you mean to go on, good plan."

He waited for the four lettered word to spew out of the Vulcan's mouth and when it did, Jack couldn't help but have a huge grin on his face as he had won the first round.

(Andy, your deal)