Chapter Two

A week before the relaunch of the Enterprise, the last of the crew arrived. Data familiarized himself with all the personnel changes that had occurred. Dr. Selar was now the new Chief Medical Officer, replacing Dr. Crusher, and a new doctor, Dr. Mark Newcombe, joined the section. Counselor Troi’s replacement, a Denobulan woman named Faalox, would be more of a traditional counselor in that she would not be a regular on the bridge as Counselor Troi had been. Data looked over the arrival reports and wondered what his first meeting with the new second officer/science officer, Lieutenant Commander Gemma Corazon, would be like. He was curious to meet the woman who would be taking over for him at the ops station.

Gemma Corazon’s excitement was bubbling within her as she beamed aboard the Enterprise-E. When first given this assignment, Gemma felt more sadness than excitement, as the thought of replacing someone who died in the line of duty, deeply affected her. Now though, with Commander Data’s return, she was looking forward to serving under Captain Jean-Luc Picard and the recently resurrected first officer.

“Welcome aboard Commander Corazon. I am Lieutenant Commander Worf. Captain Picard is in his ready room. I will escort you there now,” the large Klingon instructed.

“Thank you Commander,” Gemma responded as she made her way off the transporter pad.

The Klingon Chief of Security was not talkative as they made their way to the ready room. He informed Gemma he would show her to her quarters when she finished meeting with the captain. Her belongings would be there when they arrived. When they reached the ready room, Gemma pressed the chimes, seeking admittance.

“Come.”

Gemma stepped in and stood at attention. “Lieutenant Commander Gemma Corazon reporting for duty, sir.”

“At ease, Commander,” Picard responded as he stood and moved towards her with his hand extended. “Welcome aboard.” The captain said warmly and then motioned for her to sit as he returned to his chair.

“Thank you, sir,” Gemma replied as she made her way to the chair Picard indicated and sat down. “It may be out of line, sir, but on behalf of my people, I wanted to thank you again for all you did to ensure Kamala arrived safely to fulfill her role as gift and wife to Alrik.”

Picard shifted in his seat and pulled at his uniform front, a sign to those who knew him that he was uncomfortable. “That was years ago, and my role was nominal, I assure you.”

“You may have been but a link in the chain, sir, but as you know, it only takes one broken link for the burden to crash to the ground, shattered. I don’t mean to embarrass you, sir. It was simply something I had to say. I’ve said it now, so if you want to just blot it out of you mind, it will not offend me.” Her smile was genuinely warm, with a trace of sheepish uncertainty that caused Picard to chuckle.   

“I can understand your feelings on this matter, and now I realize you can sense mine. I just lost my half Betazoid counselor and now I have an empathic second officer.” Picard raised his eyebrows meaningfully at her and she smiled.

“I try to only read those I’m close to, but feeling the direction my commanding officers are leaning towards in a crisis has come in handy a time or two. I give you my word, sir, I will never invade your privacy.” She spoke with solemn sincerity.

“I think that is a wise decision, Commander. Since you’ve only just arrived, I’m sure you have yet to meet many of the other bridge officers,” he said, changing the subject.

“No, sir. I met the news of Commander Data’s return with great relief. After the losses suffered in the battle with the Scimitar...it’s difficult to be happy about a promotion under those circumstances.”

It was now Picard’s turn to look solemn. “It’s not something you ever get use to, Commander. We lost many fine people. As Mr. Worf would no doubt tell you, we honor them by doing their jobs as we believe they would have done.”

“A wise sentiment,” she agreed with a nod.

“Mr. Worf will see you to your new quarters. The rest of the new personnel should be arriving within the next two hours. I have scheduled a senior staff meeting for 1530 hours. That should give you a little time to settle in.” The captain came to a stand again and extended his hand. “Once again, welcome aboard, Commander.”

Gemma rose too and shook his hand, thanking him. She knew a dismissal when she heard one, so she turned and headed for the bridge, where Mr. Worf would be waiting.

As she crossed, she took a moment to look over her new post. It looked like a comfortable chair...and a well-designed board. The young lieutenant who was currently rewiring a part under the console looked over from his work to smile at her.

“New upgrades. Kicking the response time up by .25 seconds. Your station, Commander?” he asked.

“Yes. I’m Lieutenant Commander Corazon.” Gemma reached over to shake the man’s hand, not caring that it was dirty from his work.

“Lieutenant Copper. Pleased to meet you. And don’t worry, I’ll have her up and running in a jiffy, sir.”

Gemma grinned at the man and his outgoing manner. “Somehow, Lieutenant Copper, I have no doubt you will. It was nice to meet you,” she said, flashing him a parting smile as she moved to where Lieutenant Commander Worf was waiting for her.

“This way please.” Worf motioned Gemma towards the turbolift. “Your quarters are on deck two.”

The silence in the turbolift continued as Worf and Gemma walked down the corridor to her quarters. Gemma didn’t need to be empathic to tell that Lieutenant Commander Worf felt uncomfortable around her.

“Here we are Commander,” Worf spoke as he motioned to the door. Gemma smiled as she saw her name was already on the door. Once inside, Worf pointed out a few of the features of the quarters before starting to exit.

“Commander,” Gemma called before he reached the door, “Have I done something to offend you? If I have, I assure you it was unintentional.”

Worf turned back to look at his new superior officer with an uncertain look on his face. “You have done nothing to offend me, sir. If I gave you that impression...”

“I know you feel uncomfortable around me but I’m not sure if it’s because of something I did...or didn’t do,” she interrupted.

“How do you know that?” he asked confused.

“I’m empathic. Your discomfort was so strong I couldn’t block it out,” she explained apologetically.

“Empathic?” Worf was even more confused now. “I did not know there were Trill empaths.”

“Trill! Commander, I’m not Trill. I’m Kriosian but I am often mistaken for a Trill.” She smiled gently as she ran her hand over an area along her hairline where the dark pigment dotted her skin. “I hope in time you will feel more comfortable around me and we can be friends.”

Worf nodded his head and was gone. Gemma sighed. She knew that Worf’s confusion regarding her appearance was not the only reason he was uncomfortable with her. She couldn’t help but wonder whether he was unhappy that she was the Enterprise’s new second officer and not him.

Gemma decided to clear her mind and wander around her new quarters. She wanted to get the feel of her new home before she unpacked. After moving some of the furniture to accomplish a Kriosian version of feng shui, she felt much more comfortable in her new surroundings. She instructed the computer to inform her when it was time to leave for the briefing and began to put away her belongings. When she finished, she replicated a light snack to enjoy while she waited.

It was 1520 when Gemma left to attend the briefing. She wasn’t the first to arrive but she wasn’t the last either. Worf approached her with an unfamiliar officer at his side.

“Commander, may I introduce our chief engineer, Lieutenant Commander Geordi La Forge.”

“It’s nice to meet you, Commander. I know we will be working closely at various times so can we arrange a time to meet later? I’d like to speak with you so I can further familiarize myself with my new surroundings.”

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, too. I’d be happy to go over things with you. If you’re available after the briefing, we could go down to Engineering and I can show you around,” Geordi offered.

“Thank you Commander. I look forward to it,” Gemma smiled. “Is it safe to sit anywhere? I don’t want to take someone’s favored place at the table,” she asked as she motioned towards the chairs around the table. Geordi laughed before pointing out who sat where of the returning senior staff. Pointing to a chair that was second to the right from where Captain Picard would be sitting, he suggested she sit there.

The assembled staff was all seated at the table when Captain Picard and Commander Data entered the briefing room at exactly 1530. Picard sat at the head of the table with Data to his right, next to Gemma. He smiled and nodded at her as he sat. There was no time to introduce himself as the captain started the briefing immediately.

 “It would seem that we are to receive a shakedown mission or two for the time being.” The captain announced opening the meeting. “Ortic V is in need of skilled miners in their new settlement. We are to pick up and deliver a party of miners from Clervon Major. The miners will be bringing some heavy equipment and their personal effects. Data, we’ll need rooms for twenty-six. Commander Corazon, you will supervise clearing the two storage bays needed for their equipment. The leader of the group, Gavin Cortez will be coordinating with you and Commander La Forge to ensure all their equipment is in perfect working order before we deposit them on Ortic V.”

Gemma nodded. “Understood, sir.” She turned to nod at Geordi as he nodded at her.

“I assume the miners will require thorough examinations and full inoculations before their departure?” Dr. Selar interjected.

“Correct, Doctor. I leave that in your capable hands. A briefing to inform the miners on the conditions they can expect on Ortic V is also necessary. Data, you can handle or delegate that one.” Looking from Data to Gemma, the captain asked. “ETA to Clervon Major?”

Gemma tapped a console beside her, but before she could respond, Data replied in her stead.

“At warp four, we should reach standard orbit in three days, fourteen hours, Captain,” he stated placidly.

Gemma looked over at the android with some confusion. She was sure the captain had directed the question to her, but...it was not something to make an issue of. Plastering a smile on her face, she let it go. The meeting broke up after the captain stood and introduced everyone around the table for the benefit of the new crewmembers. Welcoming the new counselor and second officer again, he nodded and left the room.

Gemma and Geordi left the briefing room and headed for Engineering to begin discussing the necessary preparations for the miners' arrival as well as to acquaint her with the area. Once they finalized what needed doing, Gemma contacted the appropriate personnel, providing instructions on clearing out the needed storage bays. Throughout their discussions, Geordi found the knowledge possessed by the new second officer to be impressive, especially for someone of her age and limited StarFleet experience.

"Well, Commander, I think we’ve covered everything." Gemma smiled and began to turn to leave. She noticed Commander Data arriving. She slowed her pace in case he wanted to discuss the preparations with her.

Data nodded at her in passing, and continued on his way towards La Forge.

"Geordi, I am able to assist you now in finding that fluctuation in the shield generator," Data informed his friend.

Gemma turned to face the two men before speaking. "Sir, I would be happy to assist Commander La Forge in tracking down the fluctuation." Her confusion as to why La Forge had not asked her in the first place was evident.

"Thank you Commander Corazon, however I believe we have things under control," Data replied. He then turned and began discussing the problem with Geordi.

Gemma decided to let this go as well. ~ They just need a little time to adjust, ~ she thought.

As she and Geordi had met for some time, Gemma decided to make her way to the storage bays to check on the progress there. Pleased with the accomplishments, she also decided it would be a good idea to make sure the personnel knew to contact her if they had any questions.

There wasn't much time left in her shift as Gemma made her way back to the bridge. She wanted to take her station to get the feel of things. After giving the captain a quick report on their preparations she sat in her chair, glancing over the controls in front of her. She couldn't help but smile as she thought how comfortable she felt at ops.

After her shift ended, Gemma decided to find the lounge and see what it felt like. Feeling comfortable with the atmosphere, she had just ordered some dinner when she noticed a vaguely familiar man was heading her way.

“Gemma...Cor...something..” he said, stumbling over her surname.

“Corazon. I recognize you too, but I can’t get a name at all. Academy?” she asked, pointing to a chair in case he wanted to sit.

“Dr. Mark Newcombe, Commander Corazon. Yeah, we were there at the same time, I was class of ’57. You were ’58, weren’t you?” Mark asked as he made himself comfortable in the chair beside her.

“Yes. You’re new here too?” she verified. When Mark nodded, Gemma grinned. He stretched his long and lean body out in the chair, giving Gemma a moment to study him. He was close to six feet tall, muscular, but not overly so. His hair was short, but wavy. His light blue eyes were a sharp contrast to his nearly black hair. But the one thing that really stood out was his birthmark. Two small brown spots graced the nape of his neck. The spacing between them perfectly simulated a fang bite, reminding Gemma of the old Earth horror tales of Dracula.

“I think I’ve been here two hours longer than you, but I don’t think that counts towards seniority!” he said with a charming wink.

Gemma chuckled and relaxed into her own chair. Mark joined her for dinner and the two enjoyed getting to know each other better. Before they parted, Mark asked her if it was okay to ask his superior officer if she wanted to have dinner together the following night.

“I can’t think of any regulation against it,” she said with a grin. Having already teased him about his birthmark during dinner, she winked at him as she stood and said, “See you tomorrow, Dracula!”

In response he just rubbed his hands together and mumbled, “Fresh blood, mwahahahaha.” Gemma was still chuckling when she reached her quarters. 

The following day progressed well until Commander Data took the center seat after the captain retired to his ready room to study reports. Gemma noted the close proximity of a rogue asteroid to a nearby star. Despite there being no inhabitants in the system, the event was still a scientific curiosity. When she rose from ops, heading for Science One, the commander beat her to it.

“Sir, I can monitor the progress of the asteroid,” she assured him, cautiously. She felt displaced, standing uselessly beside him.

“No need, Commander Corazon. It would appear the asteroid will collide with the star. I will record the event. You may return to ops.” He never took his eyes from the monitor as he spoke to her.

Swallowing a sigh she knew he would hear, Gemma stiffly walked back to her station. Staring at him, she opened her mind shield and tried to determine if she could sense anything empathically from an android.

While it was confusing to her at first, after a few moments of concentration she was able to untangle some of the conflicting emotions she was receiving from him. Recalling what she had read regarding the operational capabilities of the android, it was not so surprising that he was reacting to all the things that he was...thinking about... at the same time.

Closing her mental shield with a sigh, Gemma realized that in order to have a chance of finding out what the commander thought of her, she would have to...catch him in the act, so to speak.

The rest of the shift went smoothly and, slowly, Gemma started to feel comfortable again. She spent some time becoming further acquainted with the ship's personnel and later, after her shift, started to make some new friends as well. Joining Mark Newcombe and her for dinner were Dr. Selar and the new counselor, Faalox. Gemma liked Faalox as she was so laid back with a smile that made one feel completely at ease. Dr. Selar would take a little longer to get to know as Gemma always had difficulty feeling completely comfortable around beings that repressed their emotions.

The next day seemed to be almost uneventful as they were nearing Clervon Major. It appeared that everyone was finally adjusting to the changes and starting to become accustomed to their respective duties.

"Sir, we will reach Clevron Major in five hours," Gemma informed the captain.

"Are the storage bays ready, Commander?" Picard asked.

"Aye, sir," Gemma responded.

"When we reach standard orbit, Commander, you may leave to supervise the loading."

"Aye, sir."

The time passed quickly and soon the Enterprise entered orbit around Clervon Major. As she entered the storage bay that would be loaded first, Gemma was surprised to see Data and Geordi standing to one side of the bay. They were obviously discussing the operations about to begin, based on the gestures of both men. Gemma made her way over to them, concerned that she had missed something in her preparations.

"Commander Data, Commander La Forge, I hope no problems have arisen regarding loading the equipment."

"No Commander. Commander La Forge and I were discussing how best to proceed with the actual loading of the equipment," Data replied.

"With all due respect Commander, should you not be discussing that with me? I am in charge of this operation," Gemma reminded her superior officer. Geordi thought it best to leave, so he made up an excuse that one of his staff was calling him and excused himself.

"You are correct Commander. My apologies." Data was about to continue when the captain's voice came over his Comm badge.

"Commander Data, report to the bridge."

"I am on my way, sir." Data started to leave when Gemma called to him.

"Commander, may I speak with you privately when we have finished with the loading?"

"Of course, Commander. I should be available to meet with you once you have completed your duties here."

"Thank you sir."

Once the transporting of the miners began, the frenzy commenced. More than half of the men disliked something about their quarters and the other half wanted to fuss and fight about every detail regarding the status of their equipment. By the time all of their complaints were addressed, Gemma was exhausted.

Gemma’s mind felt befuddled with all the information and emotions that bombarded her today from the opinionated miners. As she finally left cargo bay two, it dawned on her that she still had one more stressful matter to deal with...Commander Data.

She decided to go to her quarters for a quiet moment alone and for some time to collect her thoughts. Considering the gravity of the situation, one misplaced word could earn her a reprimand on her record. She tried to have a bite to eat as she practiced what she would say to begin the most dreaded conversations she would ever have in her life!

She was halfway through her sandwich when her comm badge signaled.

“Data to Commander Corazon. Did you still wish to meet with me?”

She quickly swallowed the morsel of food she had in her mouth and tapped her badge. “Aye sir. My apologies Commander, I’ve only just gotten the miners settled and was having something to eat. Where shall I meet you, sir?” she asked, trying not to sigh.

“I am in my quarters now. You did request privacy, correct?” he inquired.

“Yes sir. I can be there in ten minutes, if that’s agreeable,” Gemma told him.

“It is. Data out.”

Cramming the rest of the sandwich in her mouth, Gemma ran to wash her face and hands. Running a comb through her auburn hair, she headed for her meeting.

Standing before his door, Gemma rang for admittance. She heard the commander call for her to come and the door slid open. Scanning the room, Gemma found the commander sitting behind what at first appeared to be a desk, but on closer inspection was actually a computer console that looked more elaborate than any of the ones on the bridge.

 “Greetings, Commander. Would you care to sit?” the android asked, pointing towards the two chairs that faced his console.

“Yes, sir. Thank you,” she said, still trying to gather her nerves, but at least she had an opening line ready. 

Once she was sure she had his complete attention, Gemma spoke. “Commander, I am having difficulty in discerning what is required of me here. I was under the impression that I was to be the science officer and in charge of operations. Under the guidelines I have been given, the scans of the asteroid’s collision with the star should have fallen under my jurisdiction. Also, as I specialized in many areas that relate to engineering, I am fully capable of assisting the chief engineer, should the need arise. If I have misunderstood my assigned duties and the areas that fall under my jurisdiction, please correct me.”  

Data sat silently, his eyes moving from side to side as he reviewed his memories for the past few days. A frown crossed his lips as he continued. Gemma was becoming more nervous the longer he stayed silent. It was well over a minute before the first officer finally spoke.

"You have not misunderstood your duties, Commander. It would appear I have unintentionally stepped on your toes. I will endeavor to desist in this behavior. Please accept my apologies."

Gemma quickly looked down at her feet before remembering it was a human expression. "Of course, Commander. I realize there is need for a period of adjustment especially as I am taking over the position you held for a great many years. Being familiar with your impressive career, sir, I hope, in time, you will accept me as being at least an adequate successor."

"Adequate?" Data questioned. "I am familiar with your record, Commander, and I am certain that you will be much more than an adequate successor. I am...distressed though that you feel that I have not accepted you in your position. In fact, it was my recommendation to Captain Picard that you be offered the promotion." Data spoke in a tone indicating he was more hurt than angry.

"I did not mean to give you that impression, Commander." Gemma paused for a moment. "Permission to speak freely, sir."

"Of course, Commander."

"My experience from my previous two postings may have colored my judgment. I’ve found that some individuals have a difficult time accepting me as being qualified and competent, because of my age and what they see as my inexperience. I was unsure whether you were 'stepping on my toes', as you said, because you were still adjusting to your new rank and position or whether you had doubts about my abilities," Gemma explained.

"I can assure you I have complete confidence in your abilities, Commander."

"Thank you, sir, and thank you for taking the time to speak with me," she said as she began to rise from her seat.

"You are welcome, Commander."

Gemma began moving towards the door, when Data called to her. "Commander, do you play poker?" he asked.

"Yes, sir. I’ve played a hand or two," she smiled.

"The senior officers have held a weekly poker game for many years, however with the departure of Captain Riker, Counselor Troi and Dr. Crusher, we have a few openings at the table. I will be hosting the game tomorrow evening, commencing at 1900 hours, should you wish to join us."

"Thank you, Commander. I would be happy to take your money...I mean join the game," she smirked. "Good night, sir."

"Good night, Commander."

Gemma returned to her quarters feeling relieved that things seemed to be settled with her superior officer and she still had her position as second officer.

The next morning, Gemma found several new complaints from the miners that she had to address before she was able to make an appearance on the bridge. When she took over ops from Lieutenant Copeland, Commander Data had the bridge. He came over to her briefly, asking for her status report on their guests. She was pleased that he seemed much more relaxed and amiable towards her as she filled him in on the latest complaints.

The commander was speaking with Lieutenant James at the engineering station when tactical reported what appeared to be a tachyon eddy.

“Confirmed, Commander.” Corazon interjected. “My scans indicate the outer rim of the eddy extends approximately fifty-three kilometers across. Shall I make a course correction to avoid it, sir?” She looked up to see Data standing beside her. He looked from her readouts to the view screen.

“Affirmative,” he said, but without looking down, his fingers began to punch up the commands for the course correction. Gemma looked at him out of the corner of her eye, just in time to see the commander’s whole body tense up, his eyes close and his hands slowly withdraw from her board. Sighing softly, he opened his eyes again to give her an apologetic grimace.

Lowering her shields for just a moment, Gemma could pick out the frustrated embarrassment that was now prevalent in his emotional tone. Giving him an understanding, but subdued smile, she completed the course correction that he had begun, trying to draw as little attention to what just occurred.

“New course plotted and laid in, sir.” Her tone was calm and also gave no hint that anything was amiss.

“Acknowledged,” Data said with a nod. He then turned and went back to his discussion with Lieutenant James.

Ten minutes before Gemma’s shift was to end, Commander Data stood up from the center seat and requested she join him for a moment in the observation lounge. Once the door closed them off from the bridge, he turned to her with the apologetic expression on his face again.

“I regret that I inadvertently stepped on your toes again, Commander. I-“

Gemma raised a hand to cut him off. “Sir, I’m fully aware it was unintentional. I’m sure it is simply a matter of overcoming something that has become habit for you.”

Data gave her a weak smile. “It would seem so. Perhaps the challenge of a new post, coupled with once again having emotions is causing more of a detrimental affect on my ability to perform my duties than I realized,” he speculated.

“I don’t understand. Having emotions again?” she questioned.

Data focused on her again to explain. “Yes, my emotions chip...which allows me to feel, was...damaged during a mission. When Q...saved me, he also restored my emotion chip. I have been slowly trying to reintegrate emotions into my life. It would seem I have not been as successful as I had hoped.” He turned his eyes again, in contemplation.

“Commander...permission to speak freely again?” Gemma asked, hesitantly.

“Granted,” Data said, absently.

“You just made a mistake. It was a little one too.”

He seemed distressed at this observation. “I am an android, Commander. I-“

“So you’re not allowed to make mistakes? Forgive me sir, but that’s just ridiculous! All sentient beings are capable of error. It’s not against regulation! And in this case, I know you did it out of habit and intended no insult to me.”

“True,” Data allowed. He looked like he was going to continue, but she beat him to the punch.

“Let’s just agree to pretend it didn’t happen and move on, agreed?”

Data grimaced. “It did happen and it should not have,” he reminder her, stubbornly.

Gemma sighed, but then something occurred to her. “Commander, I understand that you’ve participated in several theatrical productions over the years. True?”

“Yes,” he admitted, confused.

“Act like it didn’t.” 

With a sigh of defeat, he nodded. “Perhaps I will at that.” Finally he gave her a weak, but sincere smile. “Commander...you do intend to join the poker game this evening?” he asked.

“Yes, I’m looking forward to it, sir,” she assured him.

“Excellent. I will see you at 1900 hours then. Dismissed,” he concluded, with a brighter smile.

With her shift at an end, Gemma returned to her quarters where she changed into some casual clothes and had something to eat. She checked to see if she had any correspondence or messages but other than receiving a few periodicals she subscribed to, there was nothing of interest. She made a quick entry in her personal log and then it was time to leave for the poker game.

When Gemma arrived at Data's quarters, Geordi was already there.

"Good evening Commander," Data greeted her with a smiled. "I am glad you could join us."

"Since this is a friendly game, I would prefer you call me Gemma...if that's okay."

"Of course, Gemma. Despite our bumpy start I do hope we can be friends," Data responded.

"So would I, Commander."

"Then you must call me Data," he corrected gently.

"And I'm Geordi," the engineer added.

Faalox and Mark Newcombe arrived a few moments later with Worf close behind, so it was now time to get down to business. Data handed out the poker chips and announced to the newcomers the ante amount. He cut the cards with one hand before shuffling them.

"Do you play poker as well as you handle the cards?" Gemma grinned.

"He's just showing off," Geordi teased. "He's not that good." Data gave his friend a disapproving look before laughing. He indicated what the game was as he dealt the cards to each player.

"I'm not sure if everyone here knows that I'm empathic," Gemma started to say as Data continued to deal. "I give you my word as a StarFleet officer that I do not use my ability when I play poker."

"I didn't know there were empathic Trill," Geordi commented.

"She is not Trill, Commander. She is Kriosian," Worf corrected.

"Kriosian?" Geordi repeated. "Why does that sound familiar?"

"The Enterprise-D hosted a Ceremony of Reconciliation between my people and the people of Valt Minor. Chancellor Alrik married Kamala aboard the ship and our systems have lived in peace since that time," Gemma explained. "The role the Enterprise played in helping us is one of the reasons I decided to join StarFleet and why I'm so thrilled to be working with so many officers who served on the D at that time."

Geordi won the first hand while Worf took the second. It was now time for Gemma to deal. She looked over at Data and winked before cutting the cards with one hand, just as he had done, and shuffling.

"Five card stud, no wild cards," she announced as she dealt.

As the evening progressed, Gemma was turning out to be the big winner. As she, Geordi and Data were left in one hand, Geordi was having a difficult time deciding whether to stay in or fold. He looked over at Data and then Gemma.

"Damn, I fold," he announced. He looked over at Gemma and shook his head. "You've got a poker face that would make Will Riker proud."

"He has a good poker face?" Gemma asked.

"The best I have ever seen," Data commented. "Your poker face is excellent as well. I too fold."

As Gemma pulled the pile of poker chips towards her, Faalox and Mark both announced they would have to call it a night. Worf too was leaving so the game ended.

"Can I help with the cleanup?" Gemma offered.

"Thank you, however I believe Geordi and I can take care of it," Data smiled.

"Okay then. Well, good night and thank you for inviting me. I look forward to next week's game."

Data and Geordi wished Gemma a good night and started the clean up. Gemma walked down the corridor to her quarters, ~ I think I'm going to like it here ~ she thought.

The next morning, Gemma’s main goal for the day was to work with Geordi and see to the maintenance of the miner’s equipment. They had a full team working with them, and yesterday one had worked to catalog what parts would be needed in preparation for today.

As the two Lieutenant Commanders worked, they chatted, each trying to get to know the other better. Gemma decided that she found Geordi’s company most comfortable and enjoyable. During their discussion of music, they discovered they had a love for jazz and some types of rock and roll, in common.

“Have you ever heard any Kriosian music?” Gemma asked as she made the final connections on a new power cell for a loader.

“No,” Geordi answered, sounding apologetic.

“I’ll have to let you listen to some recordings I brought with me, some time. Considering your tastes, I think you would enjoy many of the selections I have. If you’re adventurous, I may even play my ooblet for you.”

Geordi poked his head out from behind an access panel. “What is an...ooblet?” he asked, sounding intrigued.

“I do not wish to interrupt your conversation but I too wish to know what an ooblet is.” The voice of Commander Data caused both Geordi and Gemma to turn their heads in his direction with expressions of surprise. “However, first, I wish to inform you that I am available to assist, if you would not mind, Commander Corazon.” When he had completed this statement, he was looking Gemma meaningfully in the eyes.

Gemma knew he was trying to assure her that he was not trying to step on her toes, but just had the time to help. “The more the jollier...or is that happier?” she asked, not sure about the human saying.

“Merrier,” Data supplied, with a smile.

“Marry her?” Gemma asked in a bewildered and taken aback tone. Geordi chuckled and Data smiled brightly too.

“No, Commander. More merry...merrier.” Data explained and then chuckled too.

“Oh,” she said, blushing at her error. She was staring at the panel in front of her when he came up beside her, placing a hand on her shoulder.

“I too have had trouble with many of the human sayings and slang terms in my years. Do not be embarrassed...Gemma. They have many confusing phrases.” Data hoped that if he used her name rather than her rank, it would help to relax her. He was beginning to feel more comfortable with this woman and he did not want their progress in acclimating to each other to be lost. As first and second officers, they would no doubt be working closely for years to come, so an agreeable relationship was imperative. 

With a sheepish smile, Gemma said, “Well maybe you can coach me on some of the more tricky human sayings so I don’t get caught like that again.” She looked over to him and tried to smile.

“I would be happy to, on one condition.”

“What’s that?”

“You tell us what kind of instrument an ooblet is,” he said with a smile.

Gemma smiled. “You got it, Commander! An ooblet is a stringed instrument that is similar to the Terran cello in sound although its appearance is a little different and it has six strings rather than four," she explained.

"Fascinating," Data commented. "I would be most interested in hearing you play."

"So would I," Geordi added.

"Well, I guess I could invite some people to my quarters for a Kriosian night. It would be a chance to introduce my new friends to the culinary and cultural delights of Krios. Does that sound interesting or would you be bored to death?" Gemma asked, looking from Data to Geordi.

"I cannot imagine anyone dying from the affects of spending an evening in your company, Gemma," Data smiled.

"I'm glad to hear that," Gemma laughed. "I'll let you know when I have something arranged but now, I think we should get back to work."

The work went much quicker with Data's assistance. When the repairs were completed, the three officers made their way to the main lounge to get something to eat but mostly to relax.

"I know you two have served together for many years but have you been friends the whole time as well?" Gemma asked.

"Data and I have been friends from the very beginning. I was Chief Con Officer when I came to the Enterprise-D so our stations were next to each other. I think the fact we were different from everyone else made it easy to become friends," Geordi said as he smiled at his best friend.

"Different? How so?"

"Blind man and the android - can you think of a better team?" Geordi grinned.

Dinner was good but the conversation was better. Data and Geordi told Gemma about some of the more interesting missions in which they had participated. They also quizzed Gemma about her time in StarFleet. It didn't take long for them to find out how Gemma had risen in rank so quickly. It was three hours later when Gemma finally excused herself, pleading an early shift the next day. The miners' equipment would be unloaded at 0500 and Gemma needed to be there to supervise.

The two friends remained behind for another half hour, talking about what they had learned about the new third in command.

“She’s a fast learner. We went over the specs for those antiquated hulks in the cargo bays and she had them down faster than I did. You’ve read her record, Data. Her story about the explosion at Utopia Planitia...did she leave anything out?” Geordi asked his friend.

The story Gemma had told them recounted the events of the tragic accident that involved the experimental use of Transwarp drive. The teams working on the project were sure they had finally gotten all the bugs out of the works and now had a stable Transwarp drive. The drive was installed in the Starship Impenetrable, and was scheduled for testing at the same time the Horizon, Gemma’s post at the time, was docked there for a computer core upgrade. 

The testing team for the new Transwarp drive swore it passed every test administered but it was later discovered that a shortcut had been taken and that lead to the horrific tragedy. The Impenetrable was powering up to go into its first Transwarp run, when the starboard nacelle exploded.

Gemma was in one of the transporter rooms on her ship finishing some routine checks. Knowing about the launch of the Impenetrable, Gemma was watching it on the viewer. She looked away to check a readout, but a blinding flash and rocking of her own ship got her attention. Wasting not a second, Gemma opened her comm signal to the other transporter techs and ordered them to lock onto any life-form readings they could get from the Impenetrable. Since the explosion hadn’t begun in the warp drive, but had caused a warp core breach only moments later, it was a miracle that anyone survived. It was Gemma’s quick thinking and the unusual method she employed to stack the life-forms she locked onto, keeping them in flux, until she could beam them in, which earned her much recognition.

The feather in her cap was that only the skeleton crew in engineering had been lost and one of those saved was the son of the Federation President.

Gemma’s retelling of the event had downplayed her hand in the rescue, but Data was privy to more than she knew, his clearance being higher than hers.

Data told Geordi as much as he could and let him surmise the rest.

“Damn! And from what we heard here....and what you know....we know that wasn’t her only moment in the spotlight. I see why you recommended her, Data. I wonder how good a cook she is?” Geordi mused, wanting to think about less serious matters for a while.

“Her record does not include that information,” Data informed him with an amused wink.

Gemma was up early the next morning to begin supervising the offloading of the equipment. As she made her way to the storage bay she began to plan a menu for her get-together. She hoped she hadn't gotten herself in over her head.

Gemma was pleased the offloading was going so smoothly. Geordi came to check on the progress made shortly after 0700.

"I came down to see if you needed any help but it looks like you’ve got things under control," he commented.

"Thanks Geordi. I think we should be finished in a few hours but if we need any help I'll contact you."

Geordi turned to head back to Engineering, paused and then came back to where Gemma was standing.

"Gemma, if you aren't doing anything later, would you like to have dinner in the lounge this evening?"

"Sure. Should I meet you there?" Gemma asked, with a pleased grin.

"No, I'll come to your quarters at...1730."

"Okay, I'll see you then Geordi," Gemma smiled.

Geordi returned to Engineering with a bright smile on his face.

Once the miners and their equipment were safely on the surface of Ortic V, the Enterprise left orbit with Gemma back at her ops station. The rest of the shift was what could best be described as a typical day. It went by quickly and soon it was time for the shift change.

Data and Gemma rode the turbolift together to deck two. They talked briefly about the miners with Data mentioning that Captain Picard had been happy with how smoothly everything had gone.

"Gemma, if you are not busy this evening I would be happy to coach you on human sayings," Data offered.

"I'm sorry, Data. I can't tonight. Geordi asked me to have dinner with him. Can I get a...snow check on that?" she asked.

"I believe you mean rain check, and yes you may," he smiled gently.

"Oh Gods, I need more help than I thought!" she exclaimed. "Good night Data."

"Good night, Gemma. I hope you and Geordi have a fun evening."

Data continued on to his quarters as Gemma entered hers.

She changed into a nice black dress that flattered her figure but wasn't too sexy. She pulled the clips from her hair and ran her brush through her auburn locks a few times before studying her appearance in the mirror. Gemma realized that she was nervous.

~ I haven't been on a date for years. I hope I remember what to do, ~ she sighed.

She gave one last look in the mirror as the door chimes rang before heading to the door.

"Gemma, you look great," Geordi beamed after she greeted him.

"Thank you Geordi. You look great yourself," she smiled.

"Well, if you’re ready, our table awaits."