citadel 1 - a still more glorious dawn

7/28/2019 Citadel 1 - A Still More Glorious Dawn

1/33

ST@R TREK

CITADELA Still More Glorious Dawn

By John H. Harris


2/33

Ensign Grace Tapper looked out the window of the tiny crew quarters on theancient freighter.

At least, it seemed ancient. Even though it had been overhauled a number oftimes, the DMSR.H. Jacksonwas nearly seventy years old. The last of the oldAntares-class freighters, the ship had originally been built as a Starfleet high-security

transport/tug, a duty which the vessel was once again undertaking, though the securitywasnt quite as high.No, Grace thought,just me, one little biochemist fresh out of the Academy. Still

wet behind the ears. And itsnot the starship duty Id hoped to get.Still, they said it was a plum assignment. She'd be in charge of solving a mystery

that made the planet they were approaching a target for the Tzenkethi. Already, there hadbeen one minor battle fought over the planet, and Starfleet had accepted an offer tojointly administer what would eventually become a full Starbase.

Shed read the briefing on the Intarans that Starfleet provided her. At first, shecouldnt wrap her mind around an entire species that had embraced such an unhealthylifestyle as obesity, but shed come to accept it, in time. The cultural specialists from the

First Contact Office had been quite enlightening. It was rare to see such large humans,since nearly all of the causes of obesity had been addressed, either medically orculturally. Of course, there were a number of still untreatable medical conditions thatproduced obesity as a symptom, and the FCO team members were examples of just suchconditions.

Hey, Grace! We need you on the bridge, came the voice of the freighterscargomaster, who had doubled as an informal cruise director during the voyage out fromNew Fabrina. Grace, to the bridge, please.

Nothing was very far from anything on board the old freighter, so it took underthree minutes for Grace to reach the small bridge.

Whats up, Captain? she asked as the turbolift deposited her there.The captain turned from his place at the flight control console. I thought I told

you to call me Pete?Sorry, force of habit.Pete chuckled. We just got word from Gwalior. Citadel is having an ionizing

thunderstorm.That shouldnt be a problem, should it?Not normally, but theres a lot of rubidium in the ground that the city is built

on, Joey, the ships unofficial science officer, informed her. Any lightning strikeswhile youre beaming, and

And it could generate a subspace pulse that would scramble my pattern.At least until they get the transporter center up and running, Pete continued.

The forecast calls for pop-up storms over the next three days, so alternative transport hasbeen arranged.

What kind? Shuttle?No, youll still be beaming down, but itll be to Kravitz, about a day out from

Citadel.So how do I get to Citadel? Grace asked.Pete held out a sheet of flimsiplast. Rail ticket. We upgraded you to business

class.


3/33

Maglev?Not this route. The maglevs were booked.As long as it gets me there

Grace materialized outside a small brick building, emblazoned with the rail

companys logo. For a medium-sized city, it seemed quite small, but if the Academy hadtaught her anything, it was that size could be misleading. With that thought firmly in hermind, she shifted the personal gear case on her shoulder and walked through the glassdoors, which parted at her approach.

The buildings interior was just as the exterior suggested. About half of it waswaiting area, while the ticket office and waste disposal filled the rest. Needless to say,the amenities were sparse, but Grace didnt pay it much mind as she stepped up to thesales window.

Good morning! the woman behind the counter said, a cheerful smile on herface. How may I help you?

Im Ensign Tapper, from Starfleet, Grace answered, pulling out the flimsiplast

printout. I believe I have a reservation.Oh, yes, you do. We were informed that the storms over Citadel were playinghavoc with those new transporters. I guess these older trains arent as obsolete as wefeared, eh?

Apparently not. Do I need to check in or anything?No, just head out to the platform. The train should be arriving in about five

minutes.Thank you.

True to the womans word, the train did arrive about five minutes later. It was anold fuel cell-electric engine pulling six cars, the last of which was labeled caf/business.It reminded Grace of the old TGV or ICE trains that crisscrossed Europe in the late 20thand early 21st centuries, before the tracks were converted to maglev.

A remarkably thin (for an Intaran) conductor met her on the platform. His skinwas quite dark, but his smile was as bright as the twinkle that must have been in her owneyes when she graduated from the Academy.

Good morning, Ensign. Heading to Citadel today?Grace was momentarily taken aback that the man knew her rank, but she quickly

recovered and gave the conductor a brilliant smile to match his own.Thats right. Apparently, the maglev trains were all booked, and flights are

grounded by the storms.Well, then youre lucky we run these old legacy trains. We might not get you

there as fast, but well get you there in style. Climb aboard and sit wherever you like.Thank you.As with most of Intaran society, the train car was built for much heavier people.

Thus, the leather seat Grace lowered herself into was more like a throne, with severalinches of space available to her.

Dont you just love these old trains? a woman seated across the aisle asked.I wouldnt know, Maam, Grace answered. This is my first time on one,

though it does remind me of an excursion train I once rode on Earth.


4/33

Interesting. Youre in Starfleet, right?Thats right.What is it you do?Im a biochemist. Ill be working on identifying the compound in your food that

reacts with various physiologies. Hopefully, we can find a way to neutralize it without

affecting any of the indigenous life-form physiologies. Weve done it on Earth withcompounds like nicotine.So youll be working with Dr. Meav?Excuse me, who?Jarre Meav. Hes a biochemist at Citadel University.Oh. They didnt tell me who Id be working with.Well, Id be surprised if you didnt. Hes been on a lot of the update channels

lately, talking about how our plants affect different species.Interesting.A moment later, the train began moving, and the conductor appeared at the

doorway that separated the business class area from the caf. Ladies and Gentlemen,

welcome aboard theContinental Runner. As you are in business class, there are somecomplimentary items available. On this trip, we have soft drinks and some snacks, whilethe rest is available the Intaran way, meaning you must pay that is, except for ourFederation guest. Starfleet has already arranged payment for anything youd like,Ensign. In fact, is there anything I can get you?

To be honest, Ive never tried any of your food.Well, then, come right up and see if theres anything that looks good to you. We

even have a few of those Fauxbars you folks like.Oh, well, in that case, I think Ill have one of those and some water.

They were forty minutes behind schedule by the time they reached Fourton, butthe lady seated across the aisle from Grace reassured her that it wasnt unusual for legacytrains, which shared tracks with various freight lines. Unlike the maglev lines, freighttook precedence on the ground-level tracks.

Of course, even the maglev trains will be running slow in this weather, sheadded. The magnetic fields tend to attract lightning.

It sounds like you folks could use a weather modification network, Graceremarked before taking a sip of tanzila.

Oh, I dont know about that. Most people I know rather enjoy unpredictableweather.

I guess Im just used to knowing what the weather will be.Im sure we will, too, as new technology is introduced.Jacksonto Tapper.Grace tapped her commbadge. Tapper here. Go ahead.Hows your ride, Grace? Petes voice asked.Not bad. Were about forty minutes behind schedule, but Ive been informed

thats not unusual for legacy trains like this.Glad to hear it. J ust wanted to let you know that we found something of yours

that you forgot.


5/33

Grace wondered what the freighter captain was talking about, but then it occurredto her. Nibbles! How could I have forgotten him?

Do you want us to beam him down to your quarters?Have they cleared transporter use?Not yet Hang on a second. Sharon says she can beam it onto the train with

you. Thatll work.There was genuine mirth in the captains voice as he said, Hold out your hand.I think youll like this, Grace said, holding out her hand. Energize when

ready.As the entire business class looked on, there was a smear of quantum glitter that

ended in Graces out-held hand and formed itself into a life-size plush kitten wearing acentury-old Starfleet uniform. Got him! Thanks, guys!

Anytime, Grace. By the way, the cargo shuttle pilots are reporting majorturbulence. Theres even been some damage due to it.

Good thing Im taking the train, then.

Indeed.Jacksonout.As a round of applause filled the car, Grace hugged Nibbles.

The train stopped two hours outside Citadel, and the conductor appeared at thedoor to the caf a few seconds later.

Sorry, folks. It looks like were going to be stuck here for a while. Theres beenan incident at one of the crossings up ahead.

What sort of incident? one of the passengers asked.Officially, were supposed to say only that theres an obstruction on the tracks,

but you folks deserve the truth. Apparently, a pedestrian has been struck and killed. Hetried to beat a freight train, and didnt notice the passenger train coming the other way.

There were the expected reactions from the Intarans, and Grace grimaced herself,imagining the injuries the person must have suffered.

Any idea how long well be stopped? another passenger asked.A couple of hours, probably, the conductor answered. The police have to

investigate, and the rail police, and then they have to clean up the pieces. Not to mentionthe crew, especially the engineer.

We had a fatality on a train I worked some years ago, and the engineer wentthrough every emotion known in a matter of seconds. I had to keep asking if he was allright.

I assume you have counselors available? Grace asked.Yes. Its mandatory now, and counseling is available for the passengers, as

well.Grace nodded. We have similar regulations in Starfleet.Changing the subject, the conductor nodded at Nibbles. Whats that? It looks

sort of like a Tzenkethi.This is Nibbles, Grace answered, holding the toy out for inspection. Ive had

him since I was a little girl. Hes based on a Terran domestic cat.Whats he wearing?


6/33

Its a captains uniform from last century. The insignia is from theExeter group.Back then, each fleet group had its own symbol, and was named for the flagship, but afterJames T. Kirk made theEnterprisefamous, Starfleet as a whole adopted its groupsinsignia.

Interesting.

Is Starfleet still organized that way? another of the passengers asked.No. Its organized into fleets now. A lot of the big ships carry on the names ofthose old ships, and they commonly serve as flagships, but theres no hard and fast rulethat they have to. For instance, the currentEnterpriseis officially Starfleets overallflagship, but it usually operates alone.

What about theMarshal Martz, Captain Harris ship?To be honest, Im not really familiar with that ship. All I do know is that the

Nottinghamclass is designed as a deep-range explorer. Theyre the ones that gowayoutthere.

Thats something I could never really wrap my mind around, another of theIntarans remarked. Why do you do it? What makes you leave everything behind and

head off into the dangerous unknown?Grace looked around at the big folks, thinking over exactly how to answer themans question.

Four hundred years ago, there was a man named Carl Sagan. He was anastronomer with a great vision. He once said, A still more glorious dawn awaits. Not asunrise, but agalaxyrise. A morning filled with four hundred billion suns. The rising ofthe Milky Way. I want to see that more glorious dawn, or, if not me, my children... oryours. Andthat'swhy I do it. Thats why a lot of us do it. In fact, theres a name for it.Its calledLe Rve dEtoiles.

What does that mean? the conductor asked. Your translation device didntchange it.

Thats because the Universal Translator recognized it as a proper noun, like aname. It comes from the French language, from Earth. Literally translated, it meansTheDream of Stars.

The train stayed motionless for close to an hour, waiting for the authorities toconduct their preliminary investigation and clear the tracks.

Finally, the conductor came back again.Theyve cleared the trains to proceed, so we should be moving again in a few

minutes.It made the local updates, one of the passengers near the front of the

compartment remarked, holding up a data tablet. Theyre saying it was a high schoolkid.

Yeah, thats what were hearing, too, the conductor answered. Well belimited as to how fast we can go for a while. Since an emergency stop was done, alltrains will be speed limited until they can check the tracks. Thatll put us even fartherbehind, Im afraid, so you should all probably contact whoever will meet you and letthem know.

As others heaved sighs and pulled various personal communication devices frompockets and bags, Grace tapped her commbadge. Tapper to Gwalior.


7/33

This is FOB Gwalior communications. Sergeant Ilon. Go ahead.This is Ensign Grace Tapper. Im aboard a legacy train heading to Citadel.

There have been some delays that have put us quite a bit behind schedule. Are there anyinstructions for me?

One moment, Ensign. Let me check. There was the sound of a series of

computer input beeps before the sergeant returned. Operations has been advised,Maam. At this time, they advise that you continue as originally planned. Your dutycheck-in isnt until tomorrow morning, in any case. Well have ground transport waitingwhenever you get in.

Understood. Thank you, Sergeant. Tapper out.Its nice to know the military isnt completely heartless, isnt it? the lady across

the aisle remarked.My orders said as soon as possible rather than specifying a specific date, so I

have some flexibility. I notice you didnt call anyone.Oh, I run my own business, so theres really nobody to call. Theyll manage

without me.

What is it you do?Im a chef. Me and my grandsons run a little place in Citadel. In fact, Id loveto talk about your favorite dishes. Im hoping to be able to adapt some alien recipes.

Id love to. There was this great place in a city called New Orleans that a lot ofus went to, back when we were at the Academy. The best thing they made there wasBroccoli Crawfish Cheese Soup.

Crawfish? Ive never heard of that.Its a type of shellfish that lives in fresh water.Interesting. Ill have to do a bit of research and find something with a similar

taste.You know, I never got your name.Oh, just call me Nana. Everyone does.

It was close to midnight in the city of Citadel when the train finally pulled into thestation. It was underground, with the legacy tracks on the lowest level, the maglev tracksabove them and a shopping and waiting area concourse above that, with connections tolocal mass transit. It reminded Grace of the old Penn Station, in New York, which shehad studied in one of her history classes back at the Academy. And, like that station, apublic building had been constructed atop the station. In this case, it was a publicauditorium, which didnt surprise Grace, since the cultural reports shed read indicatedthat the Intaran people were ravenous consumers of what was generally termed the Arts.

A reminder to all Starfleet personnel: Transportation is available at the northexit.

It would help if I knew which way that was, Grace said to herself.I can show you, Nana, who had come up the escalator right behind Grace, said.

Im heading that way myself.Thank you, Nana. Can I help you with your bags? Unlike Grace, Nana had a

rather large wheeled suitcase, which she was pulling behind her.I would certainly appreciate that. Thank you, Ensign.No problem at all, and youre welcome to call me Grace, if you like.


8/33

Taking over control of the suitcase, Grace followed Nana through the concourseuntil they found another bank of escalators, which deposited them at street level. Almostimmediately, Grace noticed three large vehicles that had been painted in Starfleet colors.

A moment later, one of the Intarans standing outside one of the vehicles raised ahand.

Hey, Nana! he called. Need a ride?Grace shot a look at the lady. How is it he knows you?Didnt I tell you? My business is the base dining hall. She then turned her

attention back to the Intaran soldier. Well, she continued, I was going to hail a cab,but if you have a seat, Id appreciate one.

Then climb aboard. He then turned his attention to Grace. And you are?Ensign Tapper.The man, wearing what Grace now recognized as an Intaran Army enlisted

persons uniform, checked the Starfleet-issue PADD he held. Yes, Maam. Youvebeen assigned off-base housing, but its within walking distance or so Im told.Personally, I wouldnt want to walk that far.

I wont hold that against you Sergeant?Specialist, actually, Maam. I hope to be on the next promotion list, though.Heres hoping. Got a seat for me?Yes, Maam. Let me take care of that bag for you.Actually, this is Nanas bag. I just need a replicator.Sorry to say, they havent been installed in any personal quarters, Maam, but

Im sure we can get you a couple changes of clothes. He made a notation on the PADD,and nodded. Looks like the last group is about an hour out, so we can leave any timeyoure ready. One of the other coaches can handle them.

Then make it so, Specialist.Yes, Maam!

It was a short drive to the actual citadel that had given the city its name, and wasnow being called Forward Operating BaseGwalior. The external walls looked quiteimposing, having been made from local stone. As they passed through the main gate,however, Grace could see that the buildings, with one or two exceptions, were of a laterage. She also noticed that the majority of the open area was occupied by aDefiant-classstarship, perched upon its four solidly-built landing pads. It took her a moment to makeout the ships registry number.

NCC-75582 Im not familiar with that ship.Thats theHammersley, Nana, seated next to her, said.Oh, okay. Commander McCunes ship.He and his crew have been quite the celebrities around here. Just about every

member of the crew has been on some morning show or other.Here we are, folks! the driver called, stopping the bus. Youll have to make

your own way from here.It took only a few seconds for Grace and Nana to rise from their seats and take the

steps down to the open door of the motor coach.Thanks for the ride, Specialist, Grace said, stepping down to the tarmac.Anytime, Maam!


9/33

The bus had let them off directly in front of the administration building, which,even at that late hour, was quite active.

I guess this is where we part company for the night. Ill expect you at the dininghall sometime tomorrow, though. You hear me, Grace?

Ill be there, Nana.

Good! And with that, she turned and headed back toward the main gate.Grace grinned as she turned her attention away from the big woman andproceeded through the doors of the administration building.

The two people manning the main desk reminded Grace of Laurel and Hardy, inthat one was a rather svelte Vulcan, while the other was a rather portly Intaran. Theylooked like they were working well, however, and were directing people to variousoffices with quiet efficiency.

It was the Vulcan who noticed her first. Welcome toGwalior, Ensign. Howmay I help you?

Ensign Grace Tapper. I need access to a replicator and directions to myquarters.

Of course. Please proceed to room fifteen for replicator use. I will contact themotor pool for transportation to your quarters.Im told theyre within walking distance, Chief, Grace answered, noting the

Vulcans rank.City law enforcement advises that this area of the city is not safe for an

individual on foot. I can arrange for a walking escort, if that is your preference.I would, actually. Ive been sitting down all day.Very well, Ensign. You will find room fifteen directly behind me.Grace nodded her thanks, despite knowing that it was lost on the Vulcan, and

proceeded around the desk, joining the general flow of traffic.

Twenty minutes later, Grace found herself escorted by two rather tall Starfleetsecurity guards. One was lean and willowy, and had introduced himself as Garrett, whilethe other was rather burly. His name was Rizzoli. As they walked the half mile to theapartment Grace had been assigned, she learned that both men had transferred from theMarshal Martz, along with Lt. Commander Wilcox, the base executive officer.

Thats the thing about marine contingents, Maam, Rizzoli said, in response toone of her questions. When one is assigned to a ship, the security department tends tobecome redundant. Sure, were trained in a lot of the same things, but theyre moresuited to the kind of mission the ship is built for.

Still, Grace remarked, I bet youd jump at the chance to head out there again.The older enlisted man grinned. You got that right, Ensign. But I do like this

place. Almost everybody has a great personality.Here we are, Garrett said as they reached a building remarkably like the

brownstones that populated Presidio Heights, just south of the Academy campus in SanFrancisco. Sorry that its a walk-up, but they were the buildings the Intarans were mostwilling to lease to us.

Not a problem, Petty Officer. Im just after a roof over my head and acomfortable place to lie down.


10/33

Well, its definitely that. Were quartered about two blocks further on, and theCorps of Engineering guys have fitted them out pretty nicely. No replicators or sonicshowers yet, but theyve all got computer terminals and furnishings. You shouldnt havea problem, Maam. Theyve also changed the locks. Unless someone is invited into thebuilding, theyre not getting in.

Thats good to hear.The security guard handed her a plastic card. Thisll get you into the buildingand your quarters, Maam. Up three flights, at the end of the hall, number 31. Onceyouve used it, the locks will recognize you.

Thank you, Gentlemen. Im sure Ill see you again.Yes, Maam. Come on, Riz, Garrett said to his partner, I got some cold pizza

in the fridge calling our names.Grace passed through the airlock-style entry, thinking that a pizza might not be a

bad idea. The stairs were well-worn, but maintained well, and no sound met her earsother than her own footfalls. The engineers must have soundproofed the walls, too,shethought.

Finally, Grace came to unit 31, and waved the card Garrett had given her over thepanel that had been installed next to the handle. With aclick, the door unlocked, andGrace entered.

Inside, she found a space that was not unlike her quarters at other assignments. Ithad the standard Starfleet Spartan dcor, except in the bathroom and kitchen, where theexisting fixtures and appliances had been retained.

Outside, there was a flash of lightning, followed a few seconds later by a rumbleof thunder.

Computer, whats the weather forecast for tomorrow?Storms are expected to end by sunrise. Tomorrow with be partly cloudy

with a high of twenty-four degrees and a six percent chance of rain.Reminder: Nana expects you for breakfast in the base dining hall, and your

initial meeting with Dr. Meav is at 1100 hours at the Citadel Biomedical ResearchCenter.

How far is the Research Center from the base?Twelve point six kilometers. Using the G mass transit line is suggested.

Stations are located directly adjacent to both facilities.Has access to mass transit been negotiated?Unlimited mass transit cards have been issued to all Starfleet personnel. A

swipe card is located under this unit.Grace picked up the terminal to find the bright yellow card underneath.

Hopefully, the engineering people can install some sort of biometric system. Now, am Imore hungry or tired?

The computer terminal bleeped. Unable to process request.Never mind, Grace said, just as a yawn possessed her. Well, I guess that

answers that.Heading into the bedroom, she found the expected double bed, dresser and

wardrobe. She placed her gear case on the dresser and the transit card next to it.Her last conscious thought before sleep took her was Its not variable gravity, but

itll do


11/33

While others in Starfleet preferred yoga, Tai Chi or other low-impact workouts,

Grace was a runner. So, after four hours of sleep, Grace made her bed, put on herphysical training uniform, strapped a small medical monitor to her wrist, and set off forthe base.

As she went down the front steps of the brownstone, she encountered an olderman. Like most Intarans, he was rather large, but he exuded a calm friendliness.Good morning, Sir! she said.Good morning! he answered in a light tenor. Y ou must be the one who came

in early. Im Scaper Bloom, the building manager. I live in unit one.Ensign Grace Tapper, Starfleet. Youve got a nice building here, Mr. Bloom.Thank you. Before you Starfleet folks arrived, I had quite a time filling all the

units, especially the upper floors. It was mostly college kids and others of limitedmeans.

I can sort of understand that. Looks like the Corps of Engineers did someupgrades, though.

Very efficient, those engineers. They didnt put in a lift, though. Would havebeen nice if they had. Of course, in a building this old, theres not much room for one.True, and most of us wont need one, anyway.There is that. Anyway, if you have any problems, my office is just down these

steps, in the basement.Ill keep that in mind. If youll excuse me, I need to get to the base.Of course. Have a good day, Ensign.You too, Mr. Bloom.And with that, Grace set off down the sidewalk.Bloom watched her go, and chuckled to himself. Maybe those Thin Preachers

are right after allDismissing the thought, he slowly made his way down the steps and into the

building office.

Having noticed that the engineers had installed a temporary locker room next tothe replicators, Grace headed for the admin building.

She was about to head into the replicator room to get a new uniform when thedoor opened and she found herself nose to nose with a big man with a cherubic face,dressed in an Intaran officers uniform.

Oh! Sorry, Sir.No problem, Ensign. You must be that new biochemist they sent to work with

Dr. Meav.Yes, Sir. Im Ensign Grace Tapper.The man held out his hand. General An Rentoshi. Im the new base

commander.Grace snapped to attention. Sir!Rentoshi grinned. Relax, Ensign. I was just getting a clean shirt from one of the

replicators. Im pretty much living in my office while the engineers are building my newhouse. As they shook hands, the general looked her up and down. Nana wasntkidding. Youre a tiny little thing. And you look like you ran here.


12/33

Actually, General, I did. I run to keep in shape.I see. Well, then, get yourself cleaned up and go have some breakfast.Aye, Sir.After standing aside to let the general pass, Grace went into the room, replicated a

new uniform, transferred the metro card to it, and headed for the locker room.

After a quick shower, Grace headed over to the dining hall, which was one of thenewer buildings in the old citadel. As she entered, she was assailed by a mix of aromasthat instantly set her mouth to watering.

Grace! I was hoping youd stop in, Nana said from her place at the openwindow to the kitchen. Come on up here, and Ill fix you up a plate.

If it tastes as good as it smells, Ill be in here every morning.Watch it, Ensign, Rizzoli called from a table nearby, get hooked on this stuff,

and youll look like an Intaran in no time.And whats wrong with that, Petty Officer Rizzoli? Nana asked, not without

some good-natured indignation.

No offense, Nana, but you do give us a bit more than we really needForce of habit. Eat. You can work it off later.Yes, Maam.Despite what it looks like, Nana continued, as she dished up Graces breakfast,

I do cook more healthy fare than most Intarans. I even welcome Thin Preachers, whichnot everyone does. Of course, both my grandsons are, so I dont have much choice.She then placed the plate on the counter. Here you go. Commander Wilcox calls this aHash Brown Casserole. I hope you like it. Beverages are over on the left.

Thank you, Nana. It smells wonderful.She picked up the plate and headed over to the beverage cart, where she poured

herself a cup of what she thought was coffee, but when she smelled it, she noticed anaroma somewhere between coffee and tea with a spicy note that reminded her of chai.

They call it tanzila, Ensign, a voice said from behind her. She turned to see aman in his late 30s, wearing the insignia of a lieutenant commander on his red under-shirted uniform. Youre Tapper, right?

Yes, Sir.Jeff Wilcox, base XO. Its nice to meet you.Likewise, Commander. She looked around, seeing most of the tables full.Wilcox laughed. Theres an open seat at my table. Ill show you.Grace waited for Wilcox to pour himself a cup, and then followed over to a table

populated by a number of officers, both Starfleet and Intaran. Ladies and Gentlemen,the commander said, this is Grace Tapper, our new biochemist. Shell be working withDr. Meav, over at the medical center.

Nice to meet you all.Likewise. Tom Yates, Corps of Engineers, one of the Starfleet officers

answered, reaching across the table to shake hands. As befitted an engineer, he wassolidly built, though a bit wiry, giving Grace the impression that he, too, was a runner.

J inna Kal, Intaran Sea Forces, a plump blonde added.


13/33

Kinjai Kono, Intaran Air Force, a second Intaran said, half rising from his chair.While he was big, he seemed more like a boxer who had begun to let himself go than theBuddha-type physique others of his species sported.

Marin Yaris, a Trill, dressed in the uniform of a command-division Starfleetlieutenant, said, finishing the self-introductions, shuttle pilot.

You the one who ran here this morning? Y ates asked.Thats right.Good form. Im a triathlete, myself.When youre not busy building stuff, that is, Kono remarked.Yates made a noise into his tanzila cup. Speaking of that, he said, after

swallowing, Ive got a meeting with the city council in two hours. Id better be headingout.

Do they still want you to build that new theater?The boss thinks its a good idea, actually, the engineer answered. Maybe itll

smooth the mayors ruffled feathers a bit. Theyre calling it the Federation Theater, andtheyre saying itll be reserved for alien arts whatever thats supposed to mean.

Wilcox laughed. We should have guessed something like that would havehappened when the captain sang that song fromLes Miserables.We are quite enamored with the stage, you know, Kal quipped. Need any

help? Ive got a few friends who work construction. They might be able to point you atsome local contractors.

Let me see what the city council has in mind first. Anyway, hate to meet andrun, but

Not a problem, Lieutenant, Grace answered. Ill probably be doing thatmyself, more times than not. She then took her first bite of the breakfast casserole.But not today.

It was clear that the station was originally served by several sets of stairs, but atsome point, escalators had been installed over them.

The fare control point had an interesting design, which featured two largetransparent aluminum panels which swung out of the way when a swipe card was used.The panels were large enough to make jumping the turnstile nearly impossible.

Grace pulled the card from where she had tucked it under her collar and slid itthrough the reader. Instantly, the panels swung up and out of the way, allowing her towalk through.

The station itself was, while not especially modern, clean and well-lit. As Gracedescended another escalator, she noticed a pair of workmen at the edge of the platform,working on scissor lift type contraption.

Y ou got that new sign? the shorter of the two asked.Yeah, his partner answered, grabbing a long piece of plastic from a holder on

the edge of the lift platform. It was as the two men were attaching it to the hangingbrackets that Grace noticed it was printed in both Intaran and English.

Oh, good, she commented. Now I wont have to ask where I am. Im not sureif Im on the right side, though.

Where are you headed? the Intaran working on the fastening at the right end ofthe sign asked.


14/33

Citadel Biomedical Research Center.Thats part of University Hospital. Youre on the right side.Thats a relief. Of course, you dont need to change your transit signage for our

benefit.Ah, this is as much for our benefit as yours, maam. If were going to eventually

join the Federation, we might as well start learning the language. He then nodded downthe tunnel. Thats your train now. The hospital is eight stops along. The system willannounce it.

Thank you, Gentlemen. I appreciate the help.A few seconds later, the subway train pulled into the station with almost no

sound. As it stopped, the doors parted with a gentle puff, allowing several riders todisembark. Once they had done so, Grace stepped onto the train.

This is a North Shore bound G train, a computer voice announced as Gracelowered herself into an open seat. There were not many on the train, since the local rushhour had already taken place.

Stand clear of the closing doors, please, a second computer voice announced,

a moment before the doors closed. A moment later, the train began moving.

Next stop, University Hospital, the subway trains computer announced, asthe train pulled out of the seventh station from where Grace boarded.

Not quite what you expected, is it? an Intaran man, seated on the other side ofthe car, asked.

Not really. Transit systems like this are fairly common on Federation planets.Of course, I only arrived last night, so I havent had a chance to learn my way around.

Well, I would suggest you try some of the food courts.I will, Grace said, standing up and taking hold of the pole next to the door,

thanks.Um, youll want to get off on the other side, the man said. The main exit is

directly into the hospital, whereas the side one will take you outside.Thank you.Having noticed that the various signs had already been changed along the line, it

didnt surprise Grace to see a sign marked HOSPITAL ENTRANCE as the train pulledinto the station.

Have a good morning, the Intaran called after her as the doors opened.Thanks! You too.Turning left, Grace walked a few feet to the bank of elevators and escalators that

led up into the hospital.

The hospital entryway was a hive of activity, not unlike other hospitals that Gracehad seen in her life. Unlike the subway, the signage was in Intaran only, so Grace had noidea which way to go.

She looked around and noticed a man wearing the red and gray uniform of a citypolice officer, speaking with a larger woman whom Grace assumed was a nurse.

Excuse me.They both turned to look at Grace. Can we help you?


15/33

Sorry to interrupt, but Im looking for Dr. Meav at the Biomedical ResearchCenter.

You wont find Dr. Meav there right now, the nurse answered. Hes in theEmergency Center. She pointed toward the doors behind her, at the far end of a largewaiting area. Stay behind the red lines unless invited in.

Thank you.Leaving them to resume their conversation, Grace headed through the half-filledwaiting room and through the indicated doors.

Instantly, Grace was assaulted by the sights, sounds and smells of a trauma center.It also brought back the simulation shed undergone during her emergency medicaltraining, where shed learned to perform triage in a mass casualty situation.

Hang two more units of synth blood, a voice said from one of the bays. Thisguys spleen and stomach have been shredded. Any chance we could get that doc fromtheHammersley? Hed probably have him patched up in a couple minutes.

I doubt it,Grace thought as a nurse, dressed in a blood-soaked set of scrubs, cameout from the curtained trauma bay.

You medical? she asked.Im not a doctor, but yes.The nurse tossed her head toward the trauma bay. Announce yourself. He may

be able to use you. She then continued on the errand she had been sent on.But Im looking for Dr. Meav, Grace protested, trailing off as the nurse

rounded the corner.That you, Tapper? the doctors voice asked.Yes, Sir. Ensign Grace Tapper, biochemist.Grab a mask and come on in. Sorry I wasnt out in the entry to meet you, but we

had a bus versus truck accident come in.Grace quickly found a box of face masks, donned one, and slipped through the

curtains just as the nurse returned.Two units, synthetic universal, she announced, depositing them on a tray below

what looked like an old-style IV bag holder.Suction here. Meet Ensign Tapper, from Starfleet. Shes been assigned to find

out just what it is that makes our food affect so many different species and find a way toeliminate it without affecting life here. Ill be her local medical advisor. Hows hispressure?

Steady, but still low, Doctor, another of the nurses answered.Hes bleeding out as quick as we can put it into him. Ensign, do you know how

to use one of these autosuture things? The doctor from theHammersleygave us a bunchof equipment, but we havent had a chance to practice with it.

Ive been trained in field medicine, but Im not a surgeon.Well, if we cant get this guys stomach fixed, well have to remove it and put in

a new one. Id rather not have him on a liquid diet for the rest of his life.Ill see what I can do, but no promises.Just so we dont have to tell his wife shes a widow. Grab some gloves and get

in here.


16/33

It took close to forty minutes, but they finally managed to stabilize the patient towhere they could send him into surgery for more extensive treatment.

Tossing his gloves, hat, mask and smock into a disposal unit, where it was flash-vaporized, Meav said, You did good work. They taught you well at that academy ofyours.

Thank you, Doctor, but Id rather not do that again. Im a biochemist, not atrauma surgeon.So am I, the Intaran answered, scratching his light beard, but I started in

emergency medicine. I do a rotation now and then to maintain my credentials. Come on,let me show you the lab.

Grace quickly tossed her own gloves and mask into the disposal before followingMeav out of the emergency room area.

So what do you know so far? the doctor asked.Just what the reports from theEnterpriseandMarshal Martzsaid.Ive done a little more since then, up on theKumari. Amazing ship, by the way.

Way beyond anything we have. Anyway, the compound is a phytochemical we call

chetarin. Its present in the cell walls of nearly all Intaran plants, but has little to noeffect on indigenous animal or insect life.So its a form of cellulose? Grace asked.More akin to what you call pectin, I would say.But that doesnt explain how it causes psychoactive responses.No, it doesnt.They turned a corner to find a bio-containment lab before them, the doors

augmented with what Grace instantly recognized as Federation-standard forcefieldgenerators.

Here we are, Meav announced, punching in a security code. Youll beestablishing your own code with the computer inside, of course.

Of course.Accompanied by the sound of heavy hydraulics, the first set of doors opened,

allowing them to pass into an airlock, which closed behind them.Please wait for contaminant scan, the computer announced. A moment later,

the inner door opened. No contaminants detected. Please proceed.I like how you program your computers to be polite, Meav remarked, leading

the way. Ours tend to be rather cold and mechanical.Well, when we were at your tech level, most of our computers didnt talk.Fair enough. As you can see, most of the equipment is your tech, modified to

use our power systems. Everything else is basic stuff: incubator, cold storage,glassware. He then headed across the lab to a small closet, returning with a bundleunder his arm. The engineers who installed all of this helped one of the local shopsembroider this for you. Its something of a tradition at this hospital.

The bundle turned out to be a khaki-colored lab coat, embroidered with thehospital logo and her name and position in both Federation Standard and Intaran script.

Thank you, Doctor. You didnt need to have it personalized, though.Nonsense. Youre here to help us, and both the university and hospital

administrations were adamant. There are more in the closet, should you need them.


17/33

Please pass on my thanks to them, Grace replied as she donned the garment,which fell to nearly her knees, but otherwise fit well.

Of course.Are they all tan?Yes. In this hospital, except for doctors, each department is assigned its own

color: red for cardiology, gray for neurology, black for medical examiners, and so on.We, in the biomedical field, wear tan. I spent many years in that color, before I receivedmy degree.

Perhaps I should wear scrubs, rather than my uniform.Meav grinned. Ill leave that up to you. While some department heads can be

particular, Im not. Anyway, we should get to it. We should isolate the genes thatproduce chetarin. Once we know that, it should help us figure out how it works onvarious biochemistries.

They broke for lunch an hour and a half later, walking the short distance to thecafeteria. Grace was surprised at how bright and airy the space was. Indeed, it reminded

her more of a shopping areas food court than anything shed ever associated with ahospital.Oh good, Meav said, lifting the cover on a large soup warmer, they have

glaitek stew today.Grace leaned down and sniffed. Smells like some sort of cheese soup.Actually, a womans voice came from behind them, I believe you would call it

cheeseburger soup.Oh, hi Naya, Meav said, greeting his colleague. I thought you were going to

be at your office today?I planned to be, but two of my patients were admitted today. One of them was

that truck driver you worked on.Hows he doing, anyway?Out of surgery. Im actually surprised he made it, with the injuries your notes

described.Thank Ensign Tapper here. If she hadnt used one of those autosuture thingies

Starfleet passed out, hed have bled out in the EC.Then I owe you a drink, Ensign. In fact, if youve got some time, there are a few

of us whod love to learn how to use this thing The large woman reached into one ofthe large pockets in her white lab coat, withdrawing a medical tricorder. They told us itwas essentially idiot-proof, but I cant make top or bottom of it.

I dont know when Ill have the time to, but Id be happy to run you through atutorial, Doctor, uh

Faiat, but you can call me Naya.Then please call me Grace.All right, Grace. Do you have an employee account yet?I dont even know what that is.You probably dont then, Faiat grumbled. Let me buy you lunch and we can

talk about what you and the Mad Scientist here are working on.Hey! Meav cried, affecting a hurt expression. Be nice.


18/33

While the two doctors loaded their trays with protein-rich dishes, Grace opted fora small (in comparison to the average portion sizes on offer) salad. She did acknowledgethe eating habits of her Intaran hosts by adding a generous (to her, at least) helping ofsome sort of grilled poultry, what looked like cheese and a cream-based dressing. Adessert that smelled like orange sherbet and an iced tanzila completed her repast.

Speaking of mad science, Faiat continued as the three of them took seats arounda table near the glass wall that formed one side of the open space, have you given anythought about where youll grow these new plants, assuming you can find a way tomodify them? I mean, we dont want to release something thats worse than what wehave now.

Meav froze, his first forkful not quite at his mouth. Shes right. Even withcomputer simulations, were going to have to eventually grow and test these plants in acontrolled environment. The first few, we could grow here in the lab, but

And we cant risk contaminating the biosphere with something that might makethings worse, Grace added. That rules out anything on the surface.

Too bad the Tzenkethi destroyed Lunabase Five, Faiat remarked. They had a

rather extensive set of agriculture domes.Grace chewed on a piece of meat, finding the taste quite pleasant, though thetexture was rather gamy for her taste. Well have to have a talk with the engineers

Oh, comeon, Commander! the voice came from the open door. Ive gotinfrastructure falling apart, and your engineers are working on aparking lot!

Grace turned to Meav. Maybe we should come back later.We have to havesomewherecloser to the base to put the ready shuttles! Jeff

Wilcoxs voice answered.With the approach pattern right over downtown?Meav shook his head. Theyll be done in a few minutes, he assured the ensign.

Tayanti never keeps her head of steam for long.Look, we can route the shuttle approach and departure lanes out over the bay.

Itll affect your civilian air traffic, but Im sure we can work something out with thecontrollers there.

Well, thats something. Maybe you could assign a team to help out with thestreet maintenance?

Do you see these? Wilcox asked. These are requests for engineering teamsfrom damn near every mayor on theplanet! All I can do is forward them to theFederation Development Aid Agency because we dont have enough assets available.The only reason youre getting the help you are is the fact that Citadel is hosting the base.Mayor, our priority is turning this base into a full Starbase in as short a time as possible,while building new planetary defenses and finding out what it is in your plants that dowhat it does to other species. Im stretched to the limit!

There was a heavy sigh. Could you at least send someone to teach us how tomake that plascrete you folks use? Itd make the streets last a lot longer.

Meav smiled. Shes winding down.Ill talk to Commander MRowri or Captain Baier and see if they can spare

someone. Thats really all I can promise, Mayor.I guess thatll have to do. Thank you for your time, Commander.


19/33

We try to be good neighbors, Mayor. There will always be someone here youcan talk to. Have a good afternoon.

A moment later, a remarkably young Intaran woman appeared at the door, Wilcoxbehind her.

Doctor Meav, she said, nice to see you.

You too, Mayor. This is Ensign Tapper. Shes helping with my research.Ensign.Maam.The two Starfleet officers, the Intaran doctor and the Intaran Navy chief who was

Wilcoxs yeoman watched her walk out. A bit young to be mayor, isnt she?She won the election, the chief answered, not sounding all that convinced.She grows on you, Wilcox said, waving Meav and Grace into the inner office.

How can I help you two?Im almost afraid to ask, after that, Grace answered.Cant be worse than what the civilians are hounding me for.Thanks for giving us some time, in any case, Commander, Meav said, lowering

himself into one of the oversized visitors chairs.No worries, Doctor or do you prefer Major?Either is fine. You can even call me Jarre, if you like.Ill leave it at Doctor for now.As you like it, Commander Wilcox. What do you know about our lunar bases?Not a whole lot. The Tzenkethi didnt leave much of them, really.We used them mostly for research. Each one had a different specialization.

Lunabase Five was designed for research into agriculture for potential colonies.In short, Sir, Grace added, we need it rebuilt. Once we get to the point where

we need to test propagation of whatever genetic changes we do, were going to need aplace that wont contaminate the biosphere if it goes wrong.

Wilcox sat back and pressed a fingertip to his lips. Youre right. We will needsomething like that. How soon?

We just started checking the planets genomes, so it wont be all that soon. Sixmonths, maybe? She looked over at Meav for confirmation.

Y eah, he added, that sounds about right.Wilcox nodded. Ill send it up the line.I guess thats all we can ask for, Commander, Grace replied, as she and Meav

stood up.How soon do you think youll have something concrete to report? Wilcox

asked.Well, Meav said, adjusting the fit of his uniform jacket, we could probably

identify the required sequences by comparing twenty or so species, but Id like to have amore general look at the various agricultural species. Most of the work at this point isjust number-crunching, and weve got the computer doing that. We could probably havesomething to report in a few days, a week at the outside.

Ill let General Rentoshi know. Thank you.Grace snapped to attention for a moment before following Meav out.


20/33

Two hours later, Meav looked up from the screen of the microscope andannounced, I could use a drink. How about you?

Sounds good to me. What do you have in mind? Grace answered.Theres a bar down the street that has live music. In fact, its open mic night.Cant be worse than some of the stuff I heard back in San Francisco.

Come on, then, Meav said, pulling off his lab coat. I do want to check on acouple of patients before we leave the hospital, though.Of course. Do you want me to continue until you get back?No. Itll only take a few minutes. Besides, you worked on one of them this

morning.Graces lab coat quickly joined Meavs in the closet and the two left the lab

moments later.They met up with a pair of nurses in the elevator.Im not so sure its the right decision, one of them said to the other. Building a

memorial is one thing, but leaving the lunar bases abandoned and calling it one...Excuse me, Meav asked, but what was that about the lunar bases?

It was on the update channel in the lounge, she answered. The PrimeCouncilor just announced that theyre going to leave the lunar bases abandoned as amemorial.

Well, there goes the idea of rebuilding Lunabase Five, Grace remarked with asigh.

He did say that Starfleet would help us build new ones, the nurse added. Iwould assume a new Lunabase Five would be one of them.

Lets hope so. Were going to need it as soon as we start active geneticengineering.

They got off on the fourth floor, and quietly made their way to intensive care,where they found the man they had worked on in the Emergency Center that morning,surrounded by a woman Grace assumed to be his wife and two children.

Doctor, the woman said, rising from the chair she had pulled to the bedside,how is he?

Meav gave a reassuring smile and picked up the data tablet that was attached tothe foot of the mans bed. As he skimmed it, he said, Im sure Dr. Faiat told youeverything we know at the moment. His injuries were quite severe, but thanks to EnsignTapper, here, his prognosis is much better than it could have been. We have him sedatedright now, but it looks like hell be up and around again soon, and back on solid food in...six to eight weeks or so.

Grace tried to deflect Meavs praise, but suddenly found herself wrapped in thewomans arms, with the children adding their own bulk to the group hug.

Oh, thank you, Ensign! I dont know what we would have done if wed losthim.

I was just doing what I could, Maam, Grace answered. Im not even adoctor.

The woman held her at arms length, her expression confused. Youre not?All Starfleet personnel, Meav explained, are trained in basic field surgery with

their instruments. I havent had a chance to practice with them, and Im not above askingfor help. She may be a biochemist, but shes also an excellent surgical assistant.


21/33

Then its fortunate you were there.Well, if youll excuse us, we have another patient to look in on before leaving

for the day.Of course. And thank you again, Ensign. We wont forget what youve done.Outside, Grace hauled Meav to a stop. Why did you do that? she asked.

Do what?Told them what I did.Im giving credit where it is due, Grace. If you hadnt been there this morning,

and if you hadnt known how to run an autosuture, that man would have bled out, andthere would have been very little anyone could have done about it. Thanks to you, he hasan excellent chance of making a full recovery. He held her gaze for several secondsbefore Grace looked down, finally accepting the commendation for what it was. Now,the doctor continued, shall we go see my other patient?

Lead on, Doctor.The other patient was a middle-aged woman showing the unmistakable signs of

basal cell cancer. But it was the distinctive pin she wore on her gown that drew Graces

eye, since Meav wore an identical one on his uniform.Hello, Sesha.Doctor Meav, the woman replied with a grin. I thought youd already left.Without seeing my old shipmate? Absolutely not! Taking a seat on the edge of

the bed, he introduced the two women. Grace, this is Colonel Sesha Yenin. She wasmy commanding officer on theKateia, and she also served with General Rentoshi.

He visited me yesterday. He ordered me to get better so I could help him withall these aliens that are coming to help defend us from the Tzenkethi.

Speaking of...Sesha, Ensign Grace Tapper, from Starfleet. Shes the biochemistthey sent to help me figure out how to change chetarin into something a little less...intoxicating.

A voice from the doorway behind them was less than approving. If the Makerhad wanted our plants to grow without chetarin, He would have done it himself.

Grace turned to see a man of about the same age as Sesha, dressed in what lookedlike a cross between the robes of a Benedictine monk and a Bajoran prylar.

It is not for us to tamper with the Makers work, he concluded, stepping acrossthe threshold.

Please forgive my brother, Ensign Tapper, Sesha said. He belongs to an orderthat does not believe in genetic modification. She then addressed her brother in a tonethat told Grace that it was not a new argument. Its certainly better than the alternative,though.

Is it? We are commanded to partake of what this world provides, not to changeit for the benefit of others.

Would you rather see our world burn, Speaker? Meav asked. If we cannot finda safe way to remove chetarin from the biosphere, we will have little alternative.

The Makers work is not to be tampered with.Pay him no mind, Doctor. In time, he will see reason.The man made a sound somewhere between frustration and dismissal before

walking over to the windows.He can frustrate me to no end, Sesha remarked, but I love him just the same.


22/33

How are you feeling? Meav asked. Are the new medications working?They seem to be. Those painkillers they sent down from theKumari are

wonderful, and the lesions seem to be shrinking, ever so slowly. Im still weak andnauseous, though.

Well, Im sure that will improve as you do. Ill be sure and let Dr. Naria know

that the treatment is effective.Thank you, Doctor. It was nice meeting you, Ensign.The honor is mine, Colonel.As Meav and Grace headed back to the elevator, he explained the situation.

Sesha was exposed to gamma radiation during our last exploration flight. The cancershes suffering now is a delayed reaction to it. Im quite glad Dr. Naria was able to begintreating her. Shes one of our most experienced ship captains.

The bar looked more like a lounge to Grace, in that the seating was comfortableand geared toward appreciation of the music and conversation than for hard drinking.Yet it had a bit of an old British or Irish pub about it, as well.

Almost immediately, Naia Faiat spotted them and waved them over.Good to see you two.Good to be seen, Meav answered, lowering himself into one of the large chairs

surrounding the low table as Grace lowered herself into a third. We stopped in to seethat patient from this morning. He seems to be holding up well. We also stopped in tosee Colonel Yenin.

How is she doing? I know you asked one of the Starfleet doctors to help if hecould...

Shes much better. The treatment Dr. Naria sent down from theKumari seemsto be working as well as it does on most species.

A moment later, a young woman appeared at the table. Would any of you folkslike anything from the bar?

Ill have a Royal Telanen, Meav answered.Of course, Doctor. What would you like, Ensign?Uh, whatever you have on tap is fine with me.Ill start you with something light. Would you like to start a tab or will you be

arranging for payment through your credit line?Put it on my tab, please, Faiat answered before Grace could even think of what

to say. She helped save one of my patients this morning. I owe her one. You can set upyour own tab later.

Very well, Doctor. Would you care for a refill?Yes, thank you. I think we could all go for a communal order of aie, as well.Of course. Ill bring it right out.Aie? Grace asked. Whats that?Faiat smiled. I guess it didnt translate. Its a series of appetizers served over

the span of several hours. Its intended to foster conversation while keeping hunger atbay.

Grace nodded, understanding the concept. We have something similar on Earth.Its called Tapas.

Interesting.


23/33

Grace was about to say more when a spotlight appeared on the stage, illuminatinga middle-aged Intaran whom Grace assumed was either the emcee or owner of theestablishment.

Good evening, and welcome to Open Mic Night! He waited for the round ofapplause to abate before continuing. Our first performer is one of our Starfleet visitors,

here to play what she calls techno classical. Please welcome Jenna Stirling.Grace, who had just relaxed into the large, padded chair, sat bolt upright,recognizing the name.

As a techno beat began, a petite, lithe woman wearing her hair in layered pigtailsbounded up onto the stage and began playing a violin while moving in ways no Intaranhad seen before.

I say, Meav remarked, shes certainly... limber.Id throw my back out if I tried moving like that, Faiat added.I did, Grace countered. Moves like those arent easy, even for someone as thin

as I am.I do like the song, though.

When the song ended, Grace was on her feet, waving at Stirling.Jenna!Grace? What are you doing here? Stirling asked, quickly retrieving her violin

case before making her way to where Grace and the two doctors sat. I thought you wereon Deneva, waiting for theLexington.

I got reassigned. What about you? I thought you landed a spot on theEnterprise.

I did, but Captain Picard asked for volunteers to go TDY here, and I figured Idget more flight time. Of course, Im doing as much administration work as flying...

Like Grace, Stirling wore an ensigns uniform, but her undershirt and cuff stripeswere red, befitting her job as a shuttle pilot. Hopefully, well get some new shuttles insoon. Right now, were using loaners from theEnterpriseandMarshal Martz.

That shouldnt take too long, Meav remarked. The general has said thereshould be a freighter convoy showing up soon. Im sure some replacement shuttles willbe part of that.

I sure hope so. I dont think weve met, Major...Oh, sorry. Doctors Meav and Faiat, this is Ensign Jenna Stirling. She was my

roommate back at Starfleet Academy. Dr. Meav is my direct CO, as Ive been assignedto do biomedical research at city hospital.

Ah. Nice to meet you both.Care to join us? Faiat invited, indicating the open chair.Id love to. Thank you.As Stirling took the offered seat, the waitress returned with a tray of drinks and

the first course of the aie.

Two days later, Grace was about to head out for the hospital when the tone for anincoming call came from her computer terminal.

Incoming call from Dr. Meav, the computer announced.On screen, Grace ordered, activating the terminal screen. Tapper here. Go

ahead, Doctor.


24/33

Pack a bag, grab some ID and head for the airport. We have a flight to thecapitol in three hours.

Has something come up?Rebuilding Lunabase Five has been designated a priority. We have a meeting

with Brevik Karan, administrator of the Intaran space program. This is no longer just a

research project.Understood. Im on my way.It took only a few seconds for Grace to toss two uniforms into a carry-all. She

briefly considered adding her formal uniform, but decided against it.Computer, whats the fastest way to the civilian airport?T mass transit line to airport. Estimated travel time, one hour, thirty-two

minutes.Is there a faster way?Taxi to airport. Estimated travel time, twenty-nine minutes.Contact the base, Grace ordered, and see if any taxi companies will give me a

ride to the airport.

Stand by.Grace tucked her base-issued ID card under the collar of her uniform undershirt,next to the transit card, as had become her habit.

A town car has been dispatched to this location. Estimated arrival, twelveminutes.

Acknowledged.

The town car was large, but not as large as the limousine her parents had hired forher high school prom, a tradition dating back centuries.

The driver was what Grace had begun calling a husky: thin in comparison to theaverage Intaran, but still quite overweight in comparison to the average Earthborn human.Still, he exuded a friendly efficiency that make it impossible for her first impression notto be a positive one.

Im told you need a ride to the airport, Ensign Tapper, he said as Gracebounded down the steps of the building, just as he opened the back door for her.

Thats right, but how do you know my name?Your base computer put it on my dispatch screen. Of course, I noticed the pip on

your collar, which marks you as an ensign.Grace slid into the back seat, allowing the driver to close the door. A few seconds

later, he took his own place in the drivers seat.Its amazing how many people know Starfleet insignia.Oh, thats nothing, the driver answered. Military public affairs put up

thumbnail bios of all of you Starfleet people. Just the public stuff, of course. Forinstance, youre from a place called Eedayhoo?

Idaho, Grace corrected. A town called Sandpoint, to be exact.Interesting. Is it very big?No, only about ten thousand people. Most work in light manufacturing, but there

are a number of agricultural works in the area.But you wanted something more, right? the driver asked.


25/33

My family had lived there for seventeen generations, Grace answered. Iwasnt about to stay. No, I wanted to get out of there as soon as I could, so the day Ientered high school, I took the entrance exam to the Starfleet Academy Prep Program.After that, it was four years or preparatory training, and six years at the Academy itself.She regarded the driver, whom she could see in the rear-view mirror. What about you?

Im a Citadel native, through and through. Ive never had much interest inspace.

Meav was there to meet them as they pulled up at the terminal.Do you have your ID?Grace tapped her collar, where she had tucked the ID card. Right here.Phaser?I dont normally carry one.Good. Thats one less thing to get through security. He then handed her a

PADD. I started jotting down some ideas, but I need you to go over them.Grace noticed that Meav had, as had become the custom between them, split the

screen to allow the PADDs processor to do a running translation. While she was noengineer, she did recognize a number of elements that she would have listed asrequirements for biochemistry and agricultural labs. But there was one thing missing.

Wheres the greenhouse?The engineers will be designing it. We just need to come up with some

specifications. Ill be right back.

The plane was little different than those she had studied in her history classes atthe Academy. The seats were wide enough to be called business class on any otherplanet, but the Intarans, for the most part, filled them completely. Grace, on the otherhand, felt like a little girl in hers.

Doctor Meav? a woman asked, stopping at their seats.Thats right. Have we met?Oh, no. I saw you on the update channels last month. I sure hope these aliens

can find a way to stop the Tzenkethi. They nearly destroyed my brothers house the lasttime they attacked.

Well, hopefully, we can find a way to make our food unappealing to them.Ensign Tapper, here, is helping me. In fact, were on our way to discuss rebuildingLunabase Five so we can safely test whatever we come up with before unleashing it onthe biosphere.

The womans gaze shifted to Grace.Good Maker! Youre awfully thin...Im supposed to be, Maam. My people have a different aesthetic. I assure you,

I eat enough to keep me going.Well, if you say so. It was nice to meet you, in any case.Several other people commented on Graces weight (or rather lack thereof) as

they passed, a few offered her something to eat, but they were left alone for the most part,and the plane was ready for departure less than ten minutes later.

Ladies and gentlemen, wed like to welcome you aboard Vix Airways flight1422, direct transonic service to Unity. If you have not yet done so, please make sure


26/33

that all carry-on bags are securely stowed under the seat in front of you or, for thosepassengers in the rear compartment, in an overhead bin. Please note that thecommander has turned on the fasten seat belt sign. Please take your seat and fasten yourseat belt. Also make sure your seat backs and tray tables are in their full upright andstowed position.

For those located in emergency exit rows, please check the information screensin front of you for special instructions. If you are unwilling or unable to perform suchactions in an emergency, please notify a flight attendant, who will reseat you.

At this time, we remind you that all signal-producing devices be turned off or setto flight mode for the full duration of the flight, as they may interfere with flight andnavigation instruments. All other electronic devices should be turned off for takeoff. Wewill notify you once it is safe to use them.

Your flight crew today is Commander Tyson Solar, assisted by Pilot Tenya Duk.In the cabin are Flight Attendants Atvi, Emic, and my name is Demaya.

Once again, please make sure that all seat backs and tray tables are up and allelectronic devices are switched off. Please be advised that the forward cabin will remain

opaque until we climb above three thousand meters. Our flight time to Unity will be justover four hours and the weather forecast for our landing looks good with a few cloudsand an expected high of twenty degrees. So just sit back, relax and enjoy your flight.

What did she mean, the forward cabin will remain opaque until we climb abovethree thousand meters? Grace asked.

You didnt notice? Meav answered. Look around. See any windows?No.He grinned. You will.Flight attendants, prepare for departure.Ladies and gentlemen, please direct your attention to the screens in front of you,

where we have a short presentation about the safety features of this aircraft.

Four and a half hours later, Grace was still impressed.I have seen a lot of cool vehicles in my time in Starfleet, butthatwas

impressive.What? You folks never thought of using transparent aluminum that way?No. The closest to that we have are arboretum windows.Well, now you have a new idea to tell the engineers about. Maybe they can

design a shuttle version.Having not checked any bags, they bypassed the baggage claim area, and quickly

located the car sent for them.Doctor Meav, Im here to take you to ISA Headquarters.Thank you. This is Ensign Tapper, from Starfleet.The driver looked over at Grace. Whoa. Perhaps we should stop somewhere for

lunch first.That wont be necessary, Grace answered. They fed us on the plane.You sure? You look awfully thin.Let it go, Meav ordered. Its normal for her.Of course, Sir. If youll come this way, please


27/33

Brevik Karan had a friendly, open face as he stood up to welcome Meav andGrace.

Jarre! Nice to see you again, Kid. And you must be Ensign Tapper. Starfleetsaid theyd be sending someone. Have a seat, you two. Care for a snack?

Im fine, Sir.

Jarre? The salad droid will be here any time now.I could go for a bit of green, thanks.Karan touched a button on his desk. Nili, could you grab us a couple of snack

salads when the droid comes by?Of course, Administrator.Thanks. He released the button and returned his attention to the people before

him. Your initial report said that well need a level five biosafety facility. I thoughtthere were only four biosafety levels.

In atmosphere, thats true, Grace explained, but we need somethingcompletely isolated from the planets biosphere.

Karan nodded. Yes, I can see why youd need such a facility. Have you thought

about what kind of people youll need?The two of us, at least occasionally, of course, Meav answered. Maintenancepersonnel, a couple of farmers

Farmers?If were going to be testing new types of plants under field conditions, botanists

will be too specialized. Well need people familiar with the techniques needed for large-scale farming.

I hadnt considered that, but it makes sense. Problem is, we dont have any inthe program.

Ask for volunteers? Grace suggested. Well also need shield and weaponspersonnel. The moment the Tzenkethi get a hint were growing Intaran food that wontaffect them, theyll want to put a stop to it.

Ive talked to your Commander MRowri about that. Hes of the opinion thatwhatever base defenses they build can be integrated into an inner defense perimeter.

Im neither tactical nor engineering, but I agree with that assessment.So where do we put it? Meav asked, looking over at a map of Intars moon.As Grace rose from her chair to get a better look at the map, Nili, Karans

secretary, appeared with three containers. I got one for everyone, just in case.Thank you, Nili, Karan said, accepting one of the containers.Whats in this crater? Grace asked.Thats Koreas, Nili answered, proffering one of the containers.Oh, no thank you, Grace said, doing her best to politely refuse the offered food.

Im still full from what I ate on the plane.Nonsense, Dear. You look a day from starvation.Really, Im good.Youre not a Thin Preacher, are you? the older woman asked, her mood

darkening.Certainly not! While thinness is normal for me, I think no less of others for

choosing a different path.Well, if you change your mind


28/33

Thank you, Maam. You were saying about the crater?The only thing there is a monolith and a communications relay a group of

telecom companies sent up, what almost forty years ago?Yes, Karan confirmed. They set it up to boost the signals to and from the

various bases. I believe youd call it a cell tower?

Thats an obsolete technology on most Federation planets, but Im familiar withthe concept, Grace answered.Y ou have an idea? Meav asked.Id have to run it past the engineers, and itll take a site survey but I think we

can put a dome over the entire crater. Its big enough to allow for natural air currents todevelop, which would make pollen propagation tests a lot easier.

Karan sat back in his chair, idly munching on what looked like a green carrot.Too bad we dont have any shuttles available. The Tzenkethi destroyed most of them onthe ground.

I have a good friend whos a shuttle pilot. Im sure she can help us out.Think you can find us a farmer, too?

Plenty of tanzila growers lost their fields to the burn, Meav remarked. Imsure a few would jump at the chance to help us make sure nothing like that is ever neededagain.

Then Ill sign off on the idea. Find us a farmer, and go do the site survey. Howmany pressure suits will you need?

Meav looked over at Grace. Five?Two, Grace answered. Jenna, whoever the engineer ends up being, and I can

use Starfleet-issue suits. You and the farmer will need bigger suits than we have.Ill have two suits sent to the base in Citadel.

Now thats unusualWhat is?Three days had elapsed since their meeting with Administrator Karan, and their

hastily-produced public service announcement, calling for volunteer farmers, hadproduced the desired results. They were merely waiting for Karans office to narrowdown the list of volunteers before heading up to do the survey.

These genetic profiles. For one thing, they dont share the kind of geneticcommonality one would expect with other species.

What do you mean?Well, for example, Earth humans have 90% or better commonality with nearly

every other mammalian species. 85% with fish, 35% with insects, even 20% or betterwith plants. No two Terran species share less than 5% of their genome. Indeed, that 5%is what marks a species as being of Terran origin. But there is less than one percentcommonality across the Intaran biosphere. In fact, you and I share more geneticcommonality than either of us do with the plants on this planet. A lot more, in fact.

What are you saying? Meav asked.Im not geneticist, but I dont think youre native to this planet. In fact, Id go so

far as to say youre as human as I am.Maybe theres something to those old legends after allWhat old legends?


29/33

Our origin myth. It speaks of the Maker sending his Preservers to move theThree Peoples to new homes

Did you sayPreservers?Is that word significant?There was a species, a truly ancient one, that traveled the galaxy, rescuing

cultures in danger of dying out and seeding them on suitable planets. They were calledthe Preservers and they left obelisks to help protect those planets. That woman saidthere was a monolith in that crater. Could she have meant obelisk instead?

She could have. The word for both is the same in Nectem.Then we need to go up there sooner, rather than later. She tapped her

commbadge. Tapper to Stirling.Go ahead, Grace.Jenna, how fast can you get us a shuttle slot? I think Ive made a discovery that

the Federation Science Council will want to jump on.I just got a notice here that two Intaran EMUs are being loaded onto the

McAuliffe. We can go as soon as you get here. Whats up?

I think theres a Preserver obelisk on the moon.

Whoever had designed the city subway system knew the importance of access tothe military facilities surrounding the city, so it took Grace and Meav less than an hour toreach the station that served the airbase that was the home of the shuttlecraft on loan tothe base.

What they found when they rode the escalator to the surface was a sight thatwould have been comical if not for the heavy rifles the guards were pointing at the mandressed in what looked to Grace like overalls and a plaid shirt.

Dammit! the man cried. I got a call telling me I need to get here as quick aspossible. Nobody said nothin bout an identity card! Now let me in!

Im sorry, Sir, one of the guards answered, but we cant let you on basewithout confirming your identity.

Meav was about to say something when a Starfleet all-terrain vehicle arrived,driven by a full commander Grace had not seen before.

Is there a problem here? the commander asked, climbing out of the stoppedvehicle.

Are you in charge here the man tilted his head to look at the Starfleetofficers collar and count the pips there, Commander?

Im Commander P.L. Richards. Im the Starfleet Wing Commander here.Whats the problem?

I got a call telling me to come here, but these goons wont let me pass.And you are?With us, Commander, Meav said, stepping up to Richards. Dr. Jarre Meav,

Ensign Grace Tapper, he added, introducing them. I believe theres a shuttlecraft,the ah

McAuliffe, Grace supplied. Ensign Stirling is our pilot.Oh, yes, Richards replied. I was advised that youd been cleared. There was

also a farmer joining you?


30/33

That would beme, Commander, the man said. My name is Kene Chentee.Im a tanzila farmer. Or rather I wasuntil the military

They stopped and looked up as a transport aircraft flew low over their heads.When the sound faded, he continued.

until the military dropped burningchupelnall over my orchard. Had to lay off

all my hands.Chupeln?Local word for napalm, Sir, Grace answered. The UT treats it as a proper

noun.I see. He turned to one of the guards. Have you got a tricorder?In the guard house, Commander.Richards quickly retrieved the device and pointed it at Chentee.What are you doing? the farmer asked.Checking your face against public records. Once we confirm who you are,

youll be granted access to the base. He looked down at the screen as the tricorderbeeped. Everything checks. You are who you say you are. Handing the tricorder to

the guard, he ordered them to stand down. My apologies, Mr. Chentee. Witheverything thats been happening, you cant be too careful. Youre clear to come onbase. In fact, Im heading to the flight line. Would you three care for a ride?

Id appreciate that, Commander. Thank you.Then why dont you ride shotgun up front, and these two can ride in back. You

dont mind, do you, Doc?Not at all, Sir.Climb in.It took only seconds for the four people to climb into the vehicle.As they pulled away from the gate, Richards asked, Have you been to the moon

before?Ive never been outside atmosphere.Richards grinned. You never forget the first time you see your home planet from

space. Its the most beautiful thing youll ever see.Chentees grin was even bigger than Richards. Ill have to introduce you to my

wife, Commander.What about you, Doc? You been to the moon?I did some EVA training at Lunabase One. I take it the suits arrived in good

condition?Y es. We checked them over last night and installed a couple of support frames

in theMcAuliffethis morning.So which ship is she from, Commander? Grace asked.What, theMcAuliffe? Shes on loan from theEnterprise.Is that important? Chentee asked.Enterpriseis the Federations flagship, Richards explained.Jenna was tickled pink when she got her assignment, Grace added. Its a

dream assignment for just about everyone in Starfleet.Not everyone, Richards countered. Shes not a carrier.


31/33

It took only a few minutes to reach the flight line, where thirty shuttlecraft sat.Most of them were state of the art Type 11 shuttles, with their sleek lines that gave onethe impression of speed, even when sitting still. TheMcAuliffewas one of these.

As they came to a stop at the back of the shuttle, Grace saw a familiar face. Jennawas apparently doing her final preflight checks with Tom Yates, the engineer she had met

her first morning on the planet, and whom was one of her regular breakfast companions.I see you found them, Commander! Yates called.Yes, Lieutenant, I did, Richards answered as they climbed out of the vehicle.

Mr. Chentee forgot his ID.Ah.Just then, Jenna appeared in the hatch.Hi, Guys! Everythings good to go.Is that some kind of report, Ensign? Richards asked, the smile on his face

instantly disappearing.Jenna snapped to attention. Ensign Stirling reporting all preflight checks

complete, and all systems operational and nominal. The Intaran pressure suits have been

stowed and were ready to depart as soon as everyone is aboard, Sir.Very well, Mr. Stirling. Ill see you when you get back. He turned to climbback into the vehicle, but stopped when he saw Chentee standing between theMcAuliffeand the shuttle next to it, thePerseus, looking back and forth between them.

Something wrong, Mr. Chentee? he asked.Im sort of confused.Well, Im sure one of the ensigns or Lt. Yates can explain. Good flying.Knowing a brush-off when she saw one, Grace walked over to the squat farmer.

What are you confused about, Mr. Chentee?Why is there a letter after the number on this ship, he asked, pointing to the

McAuliffe, but not on this one? he concluded, pointing at thePerseus.Remember that the commander said theEnterpriseis the Federation flagship?Yeah.Its also historically significant. About a century ago, the Federation Congress

passed a resolution that every starship to bear the nameEnterprisewould also bear thesame number. As each newEnterpriseis commissioned, it gets the next letter in thealphabet. The letter E indicates that its from the sixth Federation ship to bear the name,which is the current one. The next one will be F.

Interesting.Its not the only ship to have the honor, but it was the first. Ready to go?Yeah, I guess so.Good! Jenna said, leaning around the edge of the hatch opening. Our

clearance window wont last forever, after all.If we do find a Preserver obelisk up there, I suspect youll be able to set your

own windows.Lets hope. You want to fly right seat?Oh, hell no. You remember what happened last time we flew together.Good point.Besides, Mr. Chentee should have the best possible view. Its his first time out

of atmosphere.


32/33

Well, then, Mr. ChenteeMaybe you all should call me Kene.All right. Im Jenna. This is Tom, and Grace and Dr. Meav, you already know.Nice to meet you. So where do I sit?Right next to me, Jenna answered. Let me safe the controls on your side so

you dont accidentally hit something She reached to her left and tapped in a sequenceof commands. Instantly, the right side controls went dark. There we go. She thenturned in her seat to look back at the main cabin of the shuttlecraft. Everyone sittingdown back there?

Yeah, were good, Grace answered.Then lets fly. She then reached forward and activated the comm panel.

Citadel tower, Starfleet shuttlecraftMcAuliffeready for vertical takeoff from Kalmikofield. Course will be east to orbit, then a four-hour transit to the moon.

ShuttlecraftMcAuliffe, current position turn right maintain course 144 degreesto Chentau beacon, climb to four thousand meters. On reaching beacon, turn leftheading zero niner zero execute ballistic climb to orbit. Contact departure on one one

eight decimal two for clearance.McAuliffe, current position, right to 144 to Chentau beacon, four thousandmeters. At beacon, turn to zero nine zero and climb to orbit.

Read back correct. Have a good flight.Thank you. Have a good morning. She then reached forward and adjusted the

comm panel. Citadel Departure, Starfleet shuttlecraftMcAuliffeready for takeoff atKalmiko flight line.

McAuliffe, proceed as directed by tower, caution civilian aircraft. ContactCitadel center on reaching four thousand meters. Cleared for takeoff.

Thank you, Departure. Have a good morning. She laid her hands on the maincontrols, savoring the power under her fingers. And here we go

And we are now in orbit, Jenna announced four minutes later.Oh, wow! Chentee breathed. He was right. It is the most beautiful thing Ive

ever seen.Just think how your wife will feel when she sees this view, Y ates said.What? the farmer asked, turning in his seat.Living on the moon for months, if not years at a time? Family is important.

Thats why nearly all Starfleet facilities and a lot of starships have family quarters.I never thought about that.Its not like well be able to commute, Meav added. Once the dome is built

and the soil processed and seeded with essential flora and fauna, itll need to be mannedpretty much constantly.

You really think we can grow tanzila in lunar soil? Chentee asked.I dont see why not, Y ates answered. Lots of farms on moons and asteroids all

over this part of the galaxy.Speaking of tanzila, I could go for some coffee, Jenna said, climbing out of her

seat. Anybody want some?Whats coffee? the farmer asked.Its our version of tanzila, Grace explained. Ill get it. You fly the shuttle.


33/33

She can fly herself for a few minutes, Jenna countered. Our TLI isnt fortwenty minutes. Besides, you probably forgot how I take my coffee.

Doubleeiskaffeemade with Andorian ice cream.Jenna stopped. Okay, you didnt forget.Im the one who introduced you to it, Grace answered, turning to the small

replicator. A moment later, she turned back with the specified drink. Here. Doctor,would you care for a cup?I think I would, thank you. In fact, Id like to try thatcortadoyou once told me

about.Coming up. She turned to the small replicator and called up the requested

drink. Lieutenant? she asked as she handed the small glass to Meav.Im more of a tea drinker, actually. I rather enjoy it Swiss style.Easy enough to call up. Kene, would you like a cup of coffee?Sure.How do you take your tanzila? Grace asked.Plain black.

Five hours later, the five of them stood in their pressure suits, looking at thePreserver obelisk.

We havegot to get a research team out here, Jenna said, breaking the silence.First things first, Meav said, though he sounded no less awed than the Starfleet

officers. Lieutenant, can you build a dome and pressurize this crater?Yates hesitated, but then tore his gaze away from the obelisk. Looking around, he

answered, Well, its about the same size as Clavius, on Earths moon, and that wasamong the first large domes. So yeah, we can do it, but itll take eight months to a yearto build, and thats with a full crew.

Think we can turn this into soil fit for growing? Chentee asked, kneeling downand raking his gloved hand through the dust at his feet.

We have equipment that can turn solid bedrock into topsoil at the rate of a squarekilometer an hour, Yates explained. That wont be a problem.

If you can do that, then I can grow whatever you need in it, the farmer said,standing up.

As the two Intarans conferred with Yates as to where to put the various buildingsthat would occupy the dome, Grace and Jenna approached the obelisk, tricorders in hand.

citadel 1 - a still more glorious dawn

Documents