No volunteers. For the first time, Mark questioned the competence of
Kaj's own choice in personnel (save himself, of course).

He turned to Lont and thought to apologize for his staff's
unprofessionalism, when he saw the look in the Ferengi's eyes.
Clearly, if anyone would have remained, she would have been
surprised. Mark sighed with resignation.

Lont smiled at him, recognizing his good intentions, and initiated
their walk onto the bridge toward the turbolift.

Had he not known Cair's rebellious and moody nature, he would have
thought she would take advantage of this prime opportunity to "study
the enemy" as it were. But he knew she would bow out.

However, as was customary, ship's counselor would without fail have
accompanied them. It was her duty.

In truth, continuing their discussion in a more casual setting,
without the restraint of formality, was ideal for all department
heads. Since the crew had to coexist with their guests for what could
be several months, it was only right for them to initiate a rapport.
The impact of their impressions would influence their subordinates
and drive off much of the tension. After having been carefully hand-
picked, Mark didn't want to think of his special crew as just another
group of biased, paranoid creatures (like his nurse); they were all
supposed to be among Starfleet's best...

=/\= Dr. Dominguez to Dr. Zimmerman =/\=

Mark's combadge cut through the silence of the turbolift ride with
such stark contrast that Lont almost jumped.

The Doctor tapped it. "Go ahead, George."

=/\= I think you'd better come to the lab. It's pretty urgent. =/\=

'Pretty' urgent? "Computer: Halt turbolift."

Mark looked helplessly at Lont. She smiled again and squeezed his
arm. "There will be plenty of opportunities," she said.

Mark smiled back and promptly addressed Dominguez. "Be right there.
Zimmerman out." Then: "Computer: Deck two." He turned to his
guest. "There *will* be other opportunities - better opportunities."

Lont lifted her chin. "I am glad to have met you. I feel more secure
with you sharing our journey with us."

"Thank YOU, Lont. I look forward to what you and your friends have
planned for us tomorrow. The best of luck to you all."

They clasped hands briefly while the turbolift doors slid open. A
security crewman was waiting to escort Lont back to her suite.

When the doors to the turbolift shut, Mark dropped his smile and
commanded firmly: "Computer: Deck five."


Dr. Mark Zimmerman, XO/CMO