Dee hated the uniforms he and the rest of the crew had to wear. They where baggy gray one piece jump suits that resembled those of the janitorial world. The only brake in the monotone gray were two thick fluorescent orange stripes, one on the outside of each leg. The stripes jutted out of the bottom of gray cargo pockets and disappeared into knee length latex gray boots. The bright orange was also seen on two large zippered pockets stationed on the chest. Dee sighed, he really hoped his Commander’s proposal was approved today. New uniforms were definitely in order. Besides there ugly appearance they were just down right impractical.

Suddenly, two crisp claps were heard and the entire crew stood, recognizing the sound as the way their Commander made herself known. Dee smirked looking at his leader and, not for the first time, took back his words about the hideousness of their uniforms.

Diana Spacey, fitting name for the Commander of the star craft "Glorious", walked briskly down the ramp to greet her crew. Her uniform was considerably different from those of the male crew members. Still a gray one piece jump suit, hers was skin tight. The strips didn’t look so odd running down a lean feminine leg and the orange pockets weren’t quite as garish when molded around the soft swell of womanly breast.

" Laytner. Up here." Commander Spacey had stopped in front of Dee and was now scowling. He was the only person on her crew who had the tenacity to openly give her a once over. Once his eyes were where they needed to be she spoke, "Lieutenant Laytner, is there any new information I need to know about before we depart for the Senate?"

Her Second in Command nodded, " Yes ma’am. There has been a change in the itinerary. We are to make a detour this morning and retrieve a new recruit. We are to meet him at ten o’clock at Numans Space Port dock C-14."

Diana Spacey frowned, " Why would they do that to me?" she sighed prettily then looked over at her navigations station, " Very well then. Ensign Adams, Ensign Parker, set a course please to Numans. Lieutenant follow me," J.J. and Drake nodded then proceeded to carry out their orders. Dee followed Diana up the ramp and into her office.

Once inside her small, but beautiful office Diana immediately freed her tight bun and let her light brown hair cascade onto her shoulders then she sat in her high backed black leather chair and spoke, " Why the hell would they give me a new troop? My crew is completely filled. Did you not inform them of such?"

Dee was running his hand along a clay statue of a nude plump woman holding a grotesque demon like child. The two were molded in such a way that they made a somewhat lumpy sphere. Dee picked it up scrunching his nose, " Hey, what the hell is this?" In front of the crew Dee knew to be professional. Even though they had all seen him lose his composure at one time or another, it was only alone in Diana presence did he open up more.

Diana looked over casually, " Her name is Oc’tull. She is considered the Queen of the Underworld. Mother of Death himself, by the Sule people."

" Sule? On that green planet?" Dee looked confused, " That species seems so content with life to care about the Underworld."

" Oh they are," Diana had stood and was now removing Oc’tull from Dee’s hands, placing her back on a shelve, " they are so content with life because they believe she will protect them in death. You see, Oc’tull is a kind and gentle Goddess. She is not feared so neither is death."

Dee nodded in understanding, but still found the statue unnerving. Why would Diana want anything, good or bad, in her office that would remind her of death? He filed it away to ask her later then proceeded to answer Diana’s question, " I informed them that we had the full number of bodies needed to man a ship. They said they already knew that and we are to still take him aboard."

Diana pursed her lips, " What shall we do with him?"

" I asked them that too and they said to figure it out."

Diana groaned, " Who contacted you?"

" United Earth Federation’s Admissions Department."

" United Earth..." Diana smiled, " that means he is not being sent here by the Celestial Assembly of Planets then. We could make a plea with them to take him. Their fleet is considerably larger than Earth’s. I’m sure they can find him a vessel with Humans on board."

Dee shook his head, " I already tried that. They refused, saying that we have to place a request like that months in advance."

Diana plopped back down onto her chair then pouted, " Well damn." she waved her hand in the air as if she where fanning away a bad smell, " Okay, okay. Looks like I’m forced to make lemonade."

The detour to Numans came quickly and now J.J. Adams, working on his own, had the responsibility of docking the aircraft. A job he was quite fond of actually. No one else on the ship was allowed to dock, either because they didn’t know how or they were just generally bad at it. J.J. had another reason as to why he was fond of this task. Secretly he hoped Lieutenant Laytner would be impressed with his skill. At any other time he was just an Ensign at the helm, who was interchangeable with Drake, but this task was all his own. There was no mistaking who was doing the docking and securing of the ship. J.J. knew it went against the code of conduct for a Officer to engage with another Officer of lower rank, but he still hoped he got his attention.

Once the ship was secure Diana clapped twice and the crew looked her way, " Okay, this will be a quick trip since we have to double back to make it to the Senate offices on time. However, there is still transition paperwork that has to be done so..." her eyes scanned the group until she saw who she was looking for, " Ah, young Mr. Goldman. Here is a list of supplies needed for the ship. They are not necessities so it is okay if you cannot find them all. However, since we are on a populated moon colony we might as well pick up what we can. Everyone else you are free to do as you please, but be back and ready to go by eleven thirty. Dismissed. Lieutenant you will accompany me." Young Mr. Goldman took the paper from Diana’s hand then proceeded to make his way off the ship.

Bikky Goldman wasn’t an actual member of the crew. An Earthling child orphaned after a brief, but brutal conflict between Earth and a sector of radicals from one of their moon colonies. Only 13 he was to be taken to the inter-species Miner’s Orphanage by the crew of the ship "Glorious". It was during that journey that Bikky began to integrate with the crew effortlessly. Diana found the young boy endearing and rather helpful so after long deliberations with the United Earth Federation he was allowed to stay aboard. Highly unorthodox the arrangement seemed to work with the crew and most were happy. All but Dee. It wasn’t as though he found something personally wrong with Bikky, he just didn’t like children in general. Also, it didn’t help that Bikky did seem to have something personal against him though. The boy rarely called Dee by his true name finding that ‘Meathead’ and ‘idiot’ sufficed. Even now the child was eyeing him curiously, as if Dee was holding something back. Like he had a secret only his heart was privy to. Dee found the gaze unnerving and looked away. He sighed as he made his way off the ship and stepped onto the hard warmed metal of dock C-14.

The great thing about Numans was that it had it’s own climate and weather control. Today it was a pleasant 80 degrees and a gentle cool breeze blew around Diana’s body making her smile. Dee, however, was grumbling.

" Why do I have to follow you?" Dee’s whole body was slouched in boredom, " You can do the transfer papers yourself."

Diana arched a brow, " So you would leave me all alone at the mercy of muggers and murderers?"

It wasn’t a true question, but Dee answered anyway, " Yep...yeah I would."

Diana smirked, " Cad."

Dee shrugged," Witch."

" You are such a pompous ass! You can’t speak to me like that!"

" You started it!"

Diana rolled her eyes, " What are we in fifth grade!"

"Ahem," the soft cough was just barely heard by the bickering adults. The two turned to see a man holding a gray duffle and smiling meekly. Once he had their attentions he dropped the bag and made a sharp salute, " Ensign Randy MacLean reporting."

Diana saluted back and Dee had the vague thought that Randy’s salute looked much cleaner than hers. He didn’t bother giving one himself though. He was too busy drinking in the site before him. The man, Randy, was breathtaking, with his sandy blond hair and dark captivating eyes. Dee knew he was staring, but could care less, besides the man was in conversation with the Commander. Dee continued his study of this new crew member lingering over his unique eyes and before he could stop himself he was speaking.

" You’re mixed with something. Asian?"

Randy and Diana jumping slightly from the sound of Dee’s outburst had turned to look at him. Diana with a scowl and Randy with a look of awe and confusion.

" Uh...yes Sir." Randy looked down embarrassed, " Japanese."

Dee nodded then stuffing his hands in his pockets turned away from them. He scanned the pier and noticed a small café. Waving over his head, but never turning around he told his Commander that is where he was going to be. Diana made a move to protest then thought against it. She turned her attentions back to her new recruit.

Dee walked into the café, named Blue Lotus, sitting he ordered a coffee and a chocolate dipped biscotti.

" I knew there was something ‘off’ with you."

Dee didn’t have to turn around to know the voice belonged to Bikky, " What the hell do you want? Shouldn’t you be getting those things on the list?"

Bikky took the seat across from him and smirked, " I already got what I could. Went and asked old man Williams what this place got. He even took me around and we got what I needed. Cool dude."

Dee sighed, " So do you ‘got’ to sit by me?" then Dee sat up straighter his features creasing together in a frown once he remembered Bikky’s first sentence, " Hey, what do you mean ‘off’?"

Bikky rolled his eyes, " If you drooled anymore at that new recruit you would have drowned in the puddle you was makin’."

Dee scowled, " I was not drooling."

" Whatever man. Call it what you like, but that doesn’t change the fact that you’re gay."

" I’m not gay!"

" Oh I’m sorry," Bikky’s voice was an exaggerated, sarcastic apology, " homosexual."

" I’m not...argh! God why am I having this conversation with you!" Dee threw up his hands in frustration. Bikky threw back his head and let out a loud laugh.

Just then Diana sat down next to the two smiling slightly. She waved over a waiter and ordered a small iced tea and ordered Bikky a soda for she knew Dee didn’t offer to buy anything for the boy. Randy sat and after introducing himself silently observed his surroundings and his company.

Diana spoke, " Bikky...why aren’t you out getting those things on the list?"

" I already have what I could get," the boy gestured to the canvas bag on the floor.

Diana nodded, " Mr. Williams helped you, yes?"

Bikky nodded then bitting his lip turned his attentions on the dark eyes of Randy, " You like Oriental or somethin’?"

Randy chuckled, " Asian? Yes I’m part Japanese."

" Cool!" Bikky leaned forward instantly interested, " Do you have one of those cool Japanese names like in the Animes and stuff!"

Randy thought for a moment, honestly what could it hurt for the young boy to know. He answered, " It’s Ryo," he had a pleasant smile on his face and Bikky realized that he liked the man.

" Ryo..." Dee breathed then locked eyes with the young man, " That suits you much better," the two men stared at each other and an emotion washed over Ryo that he couldn’t name. He knew he felt calm, but it was more intense, richer. Like Dee was projecting protection and...something more.

The soothing moment was shattered by Bikky’s declaration, " You wouldn’t care if his name was ball sac!" his triumphant laugher was cut short by a slap to the back of his head, courtesy of Diana, and a harsh admonishment.

Dee now picked up the laughter, " Serves you right you little snot!"

Bikky scowled, " Go somewhere and burn!" the glare given that time by Diana was worst than her smack so Bikky shut his mouth and slouching in his chair, crossed his arms in defeat.

Ryo found the exchange rather adorable, " Excuse me Commander, but is Bikky your son?" the question was directed at Diana and Dee.

Diana leaned back suddenly as if the polar opposites of two magnets were near one another, " Oh lord no! Ugh! No, nope, never!"

It didn’t past anyone at the table that Diana’s rant was directed at Dee and the speculation that they would sleep together and bear a child. Bikky was laughing at the angry look Dee was giving his Commander and the laughing became even more out of control when Dee began to ask Diana what was so repulsive about him. Ryo was blushing slightly embarrassed and if it wasn’t for the fact that Dee caught a glimpse of the rueful expression he may have been mad longer. As it was, he smiled then spoke.

" No, Bikky is not our son, but with the way we banter it was an easy mistake to make," Dee’s eyes became softer then, much more personal, " Ryo..."

Ryo blinked, slightly pushed off balance by the use of his first name by his superior, but couldn’t deny the odd tingle and warmth it spread throughout his body. He glanced quickly over at Diana, but she was talking to Bikky. He looked back at Dee, wondering why he would call him by his first name. Ryo knew on some ships if the crew had been together for years the formality of rank was only used at public occasions or during reprimands, but that hardly applied here. Ryo looked down adjusting his jumpsuit and smoothing out his napkin. Anything not to have to look back into those arresting emerald eyes of Dee Laytner.

" Come on we should be getting back," Diana stood and dropped her payment on the table, " Bikky you can bring your soda." She didn’t wait for the others she and Bikky just left the café knowing the two men would follow.

" Shall we?" Dee stood and waited until Ryo was at his side before he walked out towards the dock, "You will like our ship."

" Is that so?" Ryo raised a brow and the look was so alluring that Dee had taken a moment just to stare.

" Of course," Dee stepped foot inside the space craft first, " I’m here."

The resulting wink was far more than playful. Of that Ryo was sure.

***

J.J. was frowning. Normally a handsome man this current look of disgust and anger did not suit him. Drake wasn’t about to tell him that, however, he valued his life. He did, on the other hand, ask his dear friend what was troubling him.

J.J. looked over, a quick snap of the neck that had Drake thinking that maybe he was mad at him. So it was a relief when J.J. spoke and explained his ire, " I don’t like that MacLean guy."

The ship was on auto pilot slowly cruising to Earth’s only moon where the Senate offices were based. This allowed the ship’s two navigation officers the opportunity to make use of the aircraft’s break room. That was where the were now, J.J. holding a now cold cup of tea and Drake with a banana and tall glass of milk. Drake had heard his friend’s words, but didn’t quite understand him. The new crew member had just stepped aboard the ship not more than ten minutes ago and Drake knew J.J. hadn’t even spoken to him.

Drake took a bite then after chewing a bit asked, " Why?"

J.J.’s frowned deepened, " Didn’t you see what happened as he stepped onto the bridge? The way the Lieutenant was smiling and talking with him. It was as though they were old buddies or something," he took a sip and then spit it out. J.J. placed the cup down and then standing took an apple off the counter. Sitting he looked at his friend and upon seeing his expression sighed, " What Drake?"

" Well, maybe the Lieutenant was just trying to make him feel comfortable."

J.J. rolled his eyes, " Please, he didn’t try that hard when you came aboard," he looked down somewhat saddened, " or me for that matter."

Drake ignored the obvious hurt J.J. was feeling and instead offered, " Well, you and I are pretty outspoken and confidant. Maybe this MacLean isn’t so much."

" Maybe I’m not what?" Ryo walked in, but was smiling.

" Uh...we were just..." Drake looked over at J.J. for support, but the young man was glaring at Ryo.

" You know the Lieutenant well?" J.J. asked Ryo who had sat down next to him.

Ryo shook his head, " Not anymore than I would after just meeting him," he narrowed his eyes slightly, " Why?"

" You two seemed..." J.J. tilted his head back and looked down his nose at Ryo, " friendly."

Ryo nodded slowly listening but not fully understanding what J.J. was getting at. Before he could say anything, though J.J. had slammed his fist down and was leaning over the table, filling the gap between Ryo and himself and between gritted teeth warned, " Dee is mine! You stay away from him, you got that! Me and him go way back and I don’t want you thinking you can get all lovey dovey with him. Got it!"suddenly J.J shot up his seat toppling back and hitting the floor with such force that Ryo and Drake both jumped. Then he was gone, taking long strides to get to the door and out the room.

Diana saw the young man storming out of the break room and was concerned when he didn’t respond to her hello. Then she was instantly on alert when she stepped into the room and laid eyes on Ryo, " Are you causing problems within my ship on your first day Ensign MacLean?" she pulled out a chair and sat, looking at Ryo with pursed lips.

" No," Ryo looked over at her, meeting her gaze, " I don’t really know what happened. I don’t even know his name."

Diana looked over at Drake and he nodded his head in agreement. He hoped that she didn’t hear the whole conversation. J.J. could get in a lot of trouble if his secret affection of their supervisor came out. Drake really didn’t think Diana would care, she was pretty laid back. The Lieutenant, on the other hand, would probably kick J.J.’s ass.

" His name is J.J. Adams and I am sure that his little fit had nothing to do with you," Drake spoke to Ryo with a pleading look in his eyes. He desperately hoped Ryo wouldn’t bring up the actual details of J.J.’s outburst. Ryo nodded in understanding then turned his attentions back to Diana.

" Excuse me Commander, but why are we in route to the Senate offices?"

Diana leaned back in her chair, " I wrote up a proposition asking to change the current design of our uniforms. I know it doesn’t seem all that dire, but well..." she looked down bitting her lower lip.

Ryo nodded, " No, I think that is a wonderful idea," Diana looked up openly pleased, " I have seen the uniforms wore by the Celestial Assembly and if we were ever in the same room as them, well..."

Drake chuckled, " We would look like the hired help."

Diana laughed, " Worst, at least they wear tuxes!" she looked over at Ryo, " I’m glad you understand my position. However, the Senate thinks this it is a waste of time and money. I have been on this for about a year and today I actually have the opportunity to speak with the Senate face to face. This is my last chance to convince them."

" Well, if you think it would help I would be more than willing to speak on your behalf," Ryo smiled, " I’ll let them know just how impractical these uniforms are. Since I am an extra member of the crew I can afford to leave the ship."

Diana nodded, " Very well, you will accompany me. Thank you."

" My pleasure Commander."

***

Ryo walked two paces behind Diana. He had been on the moon before, but never to the Senate offices. He was in awe of the architecture, the way the large five story building was modeled after ancient Victorian structures. With grand pillars and just as tall windows with crisp white moldings. The large dark wood double doors, carved in an ivy and vine pattern, opened up onto a great hall with glossy pink granite floors. In the center was a towering statue of Lady Justice holding up her scales and gripping the hilt of her elegant sword. Above her was an ornate crystal and glass chandelier surrounded by a mural of plump cherubs chasing clouds on the ceiling.

Ryo breathed, " They think your proposal is a waste of money?"

Diana smirked, it was quite opulent, but they did host meetings with leaders of other nations and planets here so it only served to show the fortune of the United Earth Federation.

They stepped into the great meeting hall silently. The only room in the building that Diana did have a problem with. Here, where all conferences are held, was home to the eight seats of the Senate, the seats were raised. Towering above the speakers as well as any audience that may be seated. Diana always felt that the height was a tad too lofty and unconsciously made the speakers feel inferior.

Diana’s proposal was the last on a list of others. Hers being seen as a trivial matter. As they sat awaiting their turn, Diana and Ryo spoke.

" I have never been here before Commander," Ryo was sure to keep is voice to a low whisper.

" Well, do you know the Senators?"

Ryo shook his head, " No, I’m afraid not. I never had to deal with them before. My prior assignment was on a Celestial Assembly space craft."

Diana nodded, " Yes, I read your file. Anyway, the one Senator you need to know about is Senator Rose. He’s the one in the middle," She lifted a delicate hand slightly and pointed to the elegant man in the middle with smoothed back hair and smart wire rimmed glasses, " Not that the others aren’t important, it’s just that he has some serious pull. He has charisma or something, he can change the entire outcome of a decision. Right now, he is the one we have to convince. Somehow we have to make him see that my proposal is meaningful. He’s a hard one to crack though."

Ryo looked at Senator Rose thoughtfully. He looked like he had a certain strong air about him. From his seat Ryo felt a little intimidated...and that was no easy feat. Ryo nodded and made a decision. During his time as speaker he was going to direct his point to that Senator. Ryo was going to look Senator Rose in the eye.

Finally it was time for Diana to make her stand. Senator Rose looked at her benignly, he even made a show out of his yawn.

Then a smile graced his face and it had no mirth, " Commander Spacey of the starship ‘Glorious’. A year. A whole year you have persisted, now your chance has come. Please enlighten us. Tell us why we should put up money in a cause so vain?"

Diana took a deep breath, " With all due respect Senator, nothing about this proposal is vain. We, as members of the United Earth Federation, are in a position in which we need to look our very best."

Senator Rose waved his hand, " You are on the ship ‘Glorious’, you do nothing, but haul imports and exports. You have no one of importance that you need to see."

" True," Diana didn’t bother to correct the Senator; that to receive exports a lot of the time they did speak with someone of ‘importance’, " however, other ships under United Earth’s command do encounter such individuals."

" Oh I get it," Senator Rose barked a rather crude laugh, " so this is all for the greater good!"

Diana was careful to not let her anger show, " In a since, yes. Even now as I stand before you, I feel somewhat belittled due to my dress."

Rose smirked, " Are you certain it is not due to this ridiculous request?"

Diana couldn’t help the narrowing of her eyes," Positive."

" Listen Commander," Senator Rose leaned back in is thick leather chair, " I think you look rather fine in your uniform."

" Perhaps, however, the male members of my crew," She motioned for Ryo to stand beside her, " look like working dogs."

Senator Rose was silent, he was taking in the man that now stood before him. He was careful not to let his admiration show, none the less, he was taken aback by the combination of dusty blond hair and dark alluring eyes. This man was attractive and Rose could tell by his demeanor that he had no clue of that fact.

" State your name," it was Senator Bane who spoke this and in doing so knocked Rose out of his stare.

Ryo stepped forward as Diana took a place behind him, " Ensign Randy McLean, Senator, of the starship ‘Glorious’."

Rose leaned forward and asked, " Do you have something to say in this matter?"

" Yes, Senator, I do," Ryo placed his hands on top of the podium and Rose noticed it wasn’t due to nerves it was solely for comforts sake, " I am going to be frank, please do not confuse this with disrespect. On the contrary, I am sure that you have other engagements that you need to attend to and I do not wish to take up any more of your time," just as Ryo had self promised he spoke to all the Senators, but remained focused on Rose, " We look, in a word, horrible. Aside from all the impractical matters concerning these current uniforms they are just not aesthetically pleasing. The choice of fabric and the fit of these uniforms gives the impression the United Earth does not have the money to afford anything better," Ryo’s eyes bore into Rose’s and the Senator found himself trapped by the gaze, " Thus, if a member of one of our sister ships meets with one of ‘great importance’, as stated by you Senator Rose, then they may be inclined to think that the Federation could not fund a project of theirs. Effectively ceasing any relations we could have with that nation." Ryo tilted his head up and looked down his nose at Rose, " It is clear that the Federation would not want to make that impression. That is evident by the care and cost taken into outfitting this very building with such lavish amenities."

Senator Rose’s eyes narrowed slightly. He knew that this Ensign was challenging him, daring for him to come up with a rebuttal. Rose was quite impressed. Impressed and impossibly seduced. He stood abruptly, " I agree."

Ryo tried to remain calm, but his eyes did go wide. Diana’s mouth was ungracefully agape, much like the members of the Senate.

Rose smiled, " I am making a motion that Proposal D-4513 is put into action immediately."

The other Senators agreed nervously, like all their invisible leashes were being harshly tugged by Rose, and the day’s session was put to an end. As the other members of the Senate gathered their belongings Rose quickly made his way down the stairs and onto the floor walking briskly to catch up with the members of "Glorious" who were on their way to the door. He ended up having to jog to catch up with them.

" Excuse me," the Senator was quite breathless, he waited until the two had turned to face him, " That was some speech you gave back there."

Ryo nodded, " As long as you saw my point."

Rose smiled, " Oh yes, quite," his voice had deepened and Ryo unconsciously stepped back. Rose ignored it then looking over at Diana spoke flatly, " We have a lot of paperwork to do, so don’t go too far. In fact you should just take a shore leave. We have to make arrangements, find a company to design this new uniform of yours and an even larger company to sew them up. You just made your life a lot harder. Good thing all you are good for is hauling other people’s stuff." Diana scowled.

Ryo made a move to talk, but was cut off by Rose, " I will see you again soon," he winked, " I hope," then he turned on his heel and walked back into the large meeting room. Ryo frowned, he felt very uncomfortable around that man and he secretly hoped they wouldn’t meet again.

***

Given the fact that the crew of "Glorious" would be staying on the moon colony for some time Diana did take Senator Rose’s advice and gave them all leave until told otherwise. Most of the crew was playing a drunken game of charades while others had left the ship and was exploring what the moon had to offer. Ryo on the other hand was in his room. He liked to be alone.

Ryo was sitting in a large comfortable arm chair wearing his favorite pajama pants and white tee shirt. He was sipping a warm glass of milk while turning the pages of the novel in his lap. He was startled from his read by a buzzing at his door. He stood puzzled, who could possibly want to see him at this hour. He pressed a button on a keypad near the door and waited as the door slid to the left and opened. He was greeted by Bikky Goldman.

" Um..." Ryo started, " hello."

" ‘Sup!" the young boy ran in without being offered.

Ryo sighed then closed the door, " Shouldn’t you be in bed?"

" I’m not five man, I don’t have a bed time!"

Ryo nodded, he supposed the boy was 13, but he looked tired, " Okay, so what do you want?"

Bikky sat on the bed, " Just wanted to say thanks, that’s all," he looked down bitting his lip.

Ryo sat next to him, " Bikky, what’s wrong?"

" Oh nothing!" The boy looked up and Ryo saw that it was true, " I just really like Diana."

" Who?"

" Oh, the Commander," Bikky smiled at Ryo, " Anyway, she really wanted that request to go through, so I am glad that you could do that for her."

Ryo nodded looking down, " I’m not so sure I actually did."

" What do you mean?" Bikky looked up at the older man, his blue eyes showing his concern.

Ryo looked down pondering what to say. It wasn’t that he didn’t or wouldn’t tell the teenager what was on his mind he just didn’t know how to form it into words.

He tried, " Well, Senator Rose was so quick to accept the terms of the proposal that it almost seemed like he had an ulterior motive."

Bikky shrugged, " Maybe he does. I heard stories about that guy. He doesn’t seem like he’s all that noble."

Ryo chuckled, " I can see that," he recalled his feelings around the man. How his instincts were calling for him to watch out. Ryo heard a loud yawn come from his companion. He looked over then patted Bikky on the back, " Off to bed with you now."

Bikky scowled, " I told you I don’t have a bed time!"

Ryo gave him a stern look that rivaled any given by Diana, it made Bikky back down and grumbling he made his way to the door. Ryo was about to open the door when Bikky hugged him. Ryo smiled then saying goodnight saw the boy off. Closing the door he made his way back over to his chair when the buzz was heard again.

Smiling Ryo shook his head and walking back prepared to chastise the boy. Opening the door his words were cut off," Now what Bik– "

"Wrong person," Dee’s smiling face was Ryo’s greeting.

Soon Bikky’s voice could be heard through the corridor, " Perv!"

Dee’s features twisted as he turned looking in the direction of the sound, " Screw you, you rat!"

Bikky’s evil laughter could be heard and before more could be said Ryo yelled down the hall, " Bed, boy! NOW!" feet could be heard hurrying down the hall.

Dee chuckled then side stepped Ryo and entered his room. Turning he reached past him and shut the door, touching the key pad and the button that locked. Ryo looked at Dee then asked.

" Can I help you Lieutenant?"

" We are alone, call me Dee," there was a playfulness about the way he said that.

Ryo opened his mouth to speak then stopped. Dee. Was this the Dee that man J.J. spoke of? The one he shouldn’t get ‘lovey dovey’ with? It had to be, he hasn’t been on the ship that long, but still he knew just about everyone’s name and he hadn’t heard of another Dee. Ryo sighed, " So, you and J.J..." it was out before he could check it.

Dee’s brow crinkled, " What?"

" Um...I mean..." Ryo looked down.

" What about that fool?"

Ryo’s head snapped up and he looked at Dee. There was something in his eyes..disgust? No, that was too harsh, but whatever it was Ryo knew it wasn’t love, " Never mind..." Ryo shut his mouth, he was better off waiting to see what Dee wanted, that he was sure.

Dee was about to prod, but thought against it, instead he said, " I wanted to thank you. I hate these uniforms so you did a good thing...getting them changed."

Ryo smiled shyly, " Thank you Lieutenant."

Dee shook his head, " No, no," he stepped closer to Ryo, just inches between them, " call me Dee."

" A-alright," Ryo was stammering and he mentally kicked himself for it, but damn if this man wasn’t...intoxicating.

" No..." Dee stepped even closer, whispering. They were sharing the same air now, " say it."

Ryo took in a deep breath and smelled Sandalwood, smelled Dee, " What?" he was whispering now too.

Dee smirked, " You heard me," he was so close that when hewhispered his next words his lips ghosted Ryo’s, " say it."

Ryo closed his eyes, " Dee..."

Dee moaned then finally took Ryo’s mouth, something Ryo didn’t realize he was waiting for until his body relaxed into the kiss. He felt Dee’s finger tips trailing up his sides pressing into his tee shirt. Ryo found he was pressing himself closer to Dee’s body and even though he knew he should stop this, (a subordinate kissing his supervisor!) he couldn’t bring himself to do it. He was completely drunk off the taste of Dee and he was helpless when he felt his mouth being eased open by an eager tongue.

The moan tumbled out before Ryo could stop it and Dee drank it in.

Ryo raised his hand and gripping Dee’s shoulders intended to push him away, but suddenly arms encircled him and he found himself even nearer to Dee. Ryo made a noise of protest that sounded more of that of pleasure once Dee’s tongue smoothed along the contours of Ryo’s. Soon both men were battling for control as their tongues danced and stroked each other. Ryo’s head became dizzy and he yielded, allowing Dee to take over the kiss, he was much more experienced at this anyway.

However, just as soon as Ryo yielded Dee pulled away, breathless. He looked deep into Ryo’s chocolate eyes and smiled sweetly, " Again," his voice was clearly weakened, " thank you."

Ryo nodded dully then watched as Dee stepped back fully holding him at arms length. Then suddenly he turned walking to the door and unlocking it, left the room. Ryo quickly went over and re-locked the door, then pressing his back to it he slid to the floor. He slowly pressed his fingers to his lips and sighed. He never thought a kiss could feel that wonderful. He closed his eyes, being on this ship was going to be a lot more challenging now.

***

Ryo decided he would go and see the sites that the moon had to offer. It was the day after the unexpected kiss between his superior and himself so he wanted to do something to take his mind off of it. Problem was that even with all the grand stores and restaurants his mind still went back to that night. Ryo was confused as to how he should react to this situation. He should be angry and the part of his mind that stored all the guidelines of protocols and procedures for officers told him he should file a report against the Lieutenant. Of course there was the other part of his mind, the louder more carefree half, that was content and even pleased and flattered. Ryo had managed to grudgingly admit that it was quite pleasant and he even had the sinking feeling that if it happened again he really wouldn’t care.

Ryo looked up at the building his feet had taken him to while he thought. A Starbucks. Hn. There really is one on every corner. He stepped in and placed an order. Then he turned and locked eyes with Senator Rose. Ryo tried very hard not to crinkle up his nose and groan, but he was sure his face still showed his displeasure. That didn’t seem to faze the Senator, though, who smiled and using an elegant finger gently pushed up his glasses.

Ryo nodded then taking his coffee attempted to leave the establishment, but was stopped by Rose’s voice speaking to him from across the room.

" Surly you don’t intend to allow me to sit here all alone?"

Ryo closed his eyes briefly then turning around walked over to where the man sat answering as he walked, " I was under the impression you wished to be alone. Coming here all by yourself and all..." Ryo sat with his coffee, a unique blend from Kenya, and was aware when the Senator moved his chair so he was closer.

Rose smiled, " Ensign Maclean, we are both in our civilian clothes I do believe it is alright if we call each other by our first names."

Ryo took a long sip of his coffee and looked over the rim at the man, then setting the cup down and sighed saying, " You are a Senator, do what you wish."

" Thank you for your permission," even though he was smiling the edge in his voice was still clear, " Your name is...?"

" Randy," the tone was flat.

" Very nice..." Ryo ignored the once over the man was currently giving him, " I am called Berkely."

Ryo looked up with raised brows then took another sip of his coffee. He had got an odd feeling from this man the first time they met, but now it was overwhelming. He began to think up excuses, reasons, hell flat out lies even, just to get away from this man.

" So, Randy, I must admit that I am quite embarrassed that you were below my radar," Rose was leaning in as he talked, " I can’t remember a new recruit ever getting on a ship without me knowing about it."

Ryo looked up, " That’s probably because I came to ‘Glorious’ directly from a Celestial ship not an Earth one."

Berkely nodded, " I see...that would explain a lot. Had I known you would be crossing over I could have found you a more suitable ship."

Ryo shook his head, " No, no. I like ‘Glorious’ very much. Everyone seems nice enough."

Berkely grunted, " It is merely a cargo ship, hardly the place for someone of your intelligence. That incompetent Lieutenant, yes, but not you."

" Cargo is important," Ryo narrowed his eyes at Rose.

" True. However, you deserve more..." Berkely smirked, " you see, I personally assigned everyone to that ship, save that Adams kid. He suggested to go there not too long after I sent Lieutenant Laytner there."

Ryo should have inquired about why the others were sent to a cargo ship or why a Senator would care that much about space business, instead he asked, " Why did you send the Lieutenant to ‘Glorious’?"

Berkely ran his index finger along the rim of his cup, " He is a slacker, a lazy ass who has no business in space. The bastard kept re-enlisting though and it was just a matter of time before he would make Lieutenant so I moved him. Better he was a Lieutenant of a cargo vessel than a war ship," Rose let out a little chuckle mixed with disgust.

" You hate him so much?" Ryo’s confusion was evident on his face.

Berkely smiled softly, " Oh, Randy, hate is such a strong word," he dropped the smile, " but, yes, I hate him that much."

Ryo frowned, Berkely’s voice was thick with his dislike for Dee. He looked down, he wondered what Dee could have done to upset a Senator. Instead of asking he just took a sip of his coffee still looking down at the table.

" Anyway, I want to know about you," Rose was grinning again and Ryo leaned back instinctively.

" There isn’t much to know. Just glad to be on the ‘Glorious’ and glad I could help out the Commander on her proposal."

" Yes, that was quite impressive," Berkely nodded, " that was quite some speech. I can’t remember anyone speaking so confidently in front of me. I’m glad you did though."

Ryo looked up then, " Why’s that?"

Rose leaned in closer and when Ryo tried to move back his hand went up pressing into the vertebrae and he held the younger man in place, " You made me understand the importance of new uniforms," Ryo raised a brow unbelieving and Berkely chuckled a bit before continuing, " No really, besides, it would be a shame to conceal all your beauty inside baggy overalls."

" What?"

Rose filled the gap, " You heard me."

Ryo’s eyes widened, he was having deja vu and the resulting pause left by such a feeling was ample time for Rose to press his lips to his. It wasn’t a kiss, just the touching of flesh to flesh. The man was reading Ryo, searching his face, but before he could pull away a harsh voice called out.

" Ryo!" The man being called didn’t have to turn to around to know it was Dee.

Berkely pulled away slowly, obviously in no hurry nor was he embarrassed to be caught with an underling in such a way. Ryo frowned and instantly felt as though he had betrayed Dee even though he couldn’t place why.

Dee walked up and took the seat across from Rose. He was glaring at the man allowing all his displeasure to show on his face.

Rose smiled, " Lieutenant Laytner," the greeting was as false as the smile.

" Berkely," Dee purposely dropped the other man’s title.

Rose narrowed his eyes, " You will get yours some day Laytner. I know this because I will be the one to hand it out."

Dee smiled, " Gonna lay the smack down are ya?"

Berkely snorted, " You are the bane of my existence."

" Yeah, well, I would have died happier never meeting you too."

Rose stood looking down at Ryo and with a heavy sigh spoke, " We will talk again later," then he was walking from the two men and out the building.

Dee waited until Rose was out of his sight before reaching over and thwacking Ryo on the back of the head, " What the hell was that?"

Ryo looked over his head stinging, " What was what?"

" Oh, don’t you act all innocent," Dee was wagging a finger in Ryo’s face, " why the hell were you swapping spit with the Senator?"

" I wasn’t–ugh, that’s gross! We didn’t alright," Ryo made a face, " he was trying that’s all."

Dee leaned back in his chair, " That’s sleazy."

" What?" Ryo looked over angered, " I’m not ‘sleazy’ and it’s no worse than what you did!"

Dee frowned, " Not you I mean him. By the way, it is worse."

Ryo raised his brows, " Explain."

" It’s Rose."

Ryo chuckled, " That’s your reasoning? Just because of the man he is the sneak attack he did is worse than yours?"

Dee nodded, " Yep, besides, you saw mine coming."

" I did not!" Ryo looked at Dee astonished.

" Liar," Dee smirked, " You closed your eyes. With Rose your eyes were as wide as a deer in headlights," Dee leaned over, closer to Ryo, " Okay, then answer this, which kiss did you like better?"

" I’m not answering that," Ryo looked Dee in the eye defiant.

" Okay, okay, not fair," Dee held up his hands in mock surrender, smiling, " so I’ll take that as meaning we were the same."

" No!" Ryo realized his mistake after it was too late. Dee had gripped the back of his neck and was now kissing him deeply. Ryo sighed he knew it was foolish to fight, besides his body wouldn’t allow that anyway. Dee broke the kiss slowly looking into Ryo’s deep brown eyes with a smug smirk.

" What was that for?" Ryo panted the words.

Dee’s smirk turned into a smile, " I wanted to wipe his taste from your memory," then he was kissing him again.

" You shouldn’t be doing that you know."

Ryo jerked away from Dee at the sound of his Commander’s voice. Diana sat on the other side of Ryo with a cup between her delicate fingers, " Dammit Dee, you know better than that, you are on Senate turf. They will have your rank before you can get your tongue back in your mouth."

Ryo was mortified, a fact that was written all over his face. Dee, however, leaned back in his chair, " Yeah, yeah," he was waving his hand dismissivly.

" No, don’t you take that lightly, " Diana reached over and grabbed Dee’s hand squeezing the fingers together, " you and your little boy toy better cool off."

Ryo scowled, " I am not his boy toy! He just keeps attacking me."

Diana released Dee, " That’s bad Dee, even for you."

" Whatever, he’ll come around," Dee gave a wink to Ryo.

Ryo narrowed his eyes, " I don’t know why you think attacking someone is a turn on."

Dee groaned, " You keep saying ‘attack’, like it’s hurting you or something."

Diana laughed, " Maybe you’re hurting his feelings!"

" Nah, he’s way too active to be that put off!" Dee was laughing now too.

" Hey guys, I’m still in the room," Ryo spoke over the laughter with his arms crossed.

Diana smiled at her crew member, " Listen I’m just teasing. Anyway, Maclean, I came to get you. I have to attend a meeting with the Senate and two companies that they picked to design the new uniform and I want you to accompany me. They will want the opinion of a ‘worker bee’, for lack of a better term, on the design and feel of the fabrics and such."

Ryo nodded, " Yes, Ma’am."

" Good," she lay her palms flat on the surface of the table and pushed herself up, " I want you in uniform and at the doors to the Senate building in a half hour," she nodded at her Second, " No, you can’t come Dee."

Dee frowned, " You’re no fun."

" Aww, don’t pout," Diana smiled, " You have Ensign Adams to keep you company."

Dee’s frowned deepened, " That’s low."

Diana let out a chuckle then waving left Starbucks.

Ryo looked over at Dee, " You and uh, Adams aren’t friends I assume?"

Dee shook his head, " Damn, he’s a good guy and all, I mean I really do like him. It’s just that... he is... well. How should I put this? Demanding?"

Ryo nodded slowly, " Like in what way?"

" Well, he just expects too much from me. Most of the crew think I don’t know, but I do," Dee looked over at Ryo through a layer of dark bangs and instantly knew that the other man knew what he was referring to.

" Have you told him you are not interested. That you can’t see yourself with him...like that?"

Dee shook his head looking at the tabletop, " Nah, to bring it up would open the doors of communication. He would try and pursue me and attempt to change my mind on the matter. Nah, I will just let him think I just don’t know. I couldn’t handle it if he became overbearing all of a sudden."

Ryo smirked amused, " But you being overbearing with me is alright though?"

Dee looked over at Ryo saddened, " I...damn..." there was a pause, long enough to let Ryo know that Dee was considering his words and reading way too much into them. Ryo actually panicked. He still wasn’t sure how to take Dee or his advances, but he did know he would miss the attention if Dee took his words to heart.

" Dee I was teasing," Ryo spoke softly and watched as the man’s features lit up.

" So..." Dee grinned like the Cheshire cat, " you’re giving me the green light?"

Ryo blanched, " No! Not in the slightest!"

Dee laughed, it was an eerie one, almost a cackle, " Too late! You are mine! You can’t take it back now!" He wrapped his arms around a startled Ryo, his lips puckered and ready to land. Aiming for Ryo’s exposed neck.

" Take what back? Stop! We are in public!" Ryo was pushing back against Dee’s shoulders, " I have to go get ready! Get off!" he was still pushing, but was laughing now too.

Dee was suddenly serious, but his arms stayed wrapped around his subordinate, " Man, Ryo you smell good."

Ryo leaned back a bit in Dee’s arms so he could better look at him. He smiled sweetly once he saw the care within the other’s bright emerald eyes, " Thanks."

Dee returned the smile, then gave a soft peck to Ryo’s lips, " You need to go. It’s getting harder to control myself around you," He placed his head on Ryo’s forehead closing his eyes and taking in the other’s warmth.

Ryo spoke, " We are hardly around each other."

Dee pulled back, " My point exactly," he snuggled his head in Ryo’s neck, "I barely see you..." his voice was a breathy whisper. He kissed the flesh deeply and slowly, "so when I do..." he made up the side of his neck, leaving a trail of kisses, "I have all this pent up..." his tongue tasted the curve of Ryo’s ear, "desire."

Ryo closed his eyes and letting out a quivering sigh whispered, " I have to go..."

" I know," Dee released him, " I know."

Ryo stood and turned toward the exit and immediately wished there was another way out.

He really didn’t want to have to walk past by a clearly angry J.J. Adams.

***

Ryo was actually glad he was invited to this meeting in the Senate offices. It gave him something to take his mind off of the demanding Rose, the brash Laytner, and the angry Adams.

He was listening to this current presentation of design for the new uniforms and was quite pleased that this woman seemed to take more pride and care in her work than the previous presenter.

She was equipped with fabric swatches and button samples as well as drawings and even a three dimensional model that she showed on her laptop. Her design was simple yet beautiful. Two pieces, it had black slacks, with two deep pockets on the hip sewn so that they were practically invisible when there was nothing inside them, and a top, a dark maroon in the center and black long sleeves. The top went on over ones head and was zipped closed in the back. The front had a seam running down the middle and ending at a point that dipped down slightly toward the crotch. The collar was high and stiff resembling a rose bud. It was black and trimmed with gold. The cuffs of the sleeves were also trimmed in gold. The woman was now passing around the fabric swatches and explaining that the colors could be changed if need be and that all the fabric was wash and wear.

She then pulled out another board that showed how this basic uniform changed into the dress uniform. Two more pieces were added, a dress coat and a cape. The coat was also black and was long ending at mid thigh instead of the normal waist length. The collarless coat was held together with three black buttons and the front was a deep V showing off the maroon underneath. The cape was attached to the shoulder with buttons which were hidden beneath shoulder caps that for the crew was trimmed in gold and for the Commander and Second was trimmed in gold roping and gold bullion fringe. The insignia for the United Earth Federation was stitched in the caps in black. The cape was lined with maroon and trimmed all around in gold.

Ryo was looking through the packets that she left for their consideration and already knew he was voting for her. This was confirmed when the last presenter arrived and showed off his flamboyant and obnoxious creation. Ryo was glad that his presentation was short considering how pointless his designs were. Obviously the Senate all felt the same as Ryo when it was decided that the contract would go to Haruna Designs, a name the woman must have greatly liked over her own given she was called Stacie Mathews, with no argument. The woman was invited back in and she was congratulated with the signing of the contract and champagne. The colors of black and maroon stayed and the only change in her design was that the Federation insignia was to be stitched gold instead of black for better visibility.

Stacie Mathews was smiling and her wavy raven hair flipped and vibrated as she laughed at a joke given by Senator Johnston. Her eyes were a light gray and her skin was a dark tan. She was trying, to no avail, to flirt with Senator Rose and gave up once he turned his back to her and began to search out Ryo.

Rose found the man whispering to his Commander and sipping every once and a while on his champagne. Diana looked up and upon seeing Rose let out a dainty cough, signaling for Ryo to look up. When he did he let out an audible groan.

" Hello Commander Spacey, Ensign Maclean," He was smiling as he nodded his greeting.

The two nodded in return and Diana had no intentions of leaving the side of her subordinate. She knew Rose’s personality and she rather liked Ryo, she wouldn’t allow him to be tainted by him. She knew what that felt like. Rose had discarded her quite cleanly after about month and a heartfelt confession of love given by her. He had actually laughed in her face and told her she was foolish. At the time she had told herself that he had some self esteem issues and that he thought he couldn’t or shouldn’t be loved. Now she knew he was just a dog.

" Are you pleased now Diana?" Rose was smirking at her, " Do these uniforms suit your taste?"

" I wouldn’t have voted for them if they didn’t, Rose."

The Senator chuckled, " Good, so I shouldn’t be hearing your voice for a while then."

Diana turned her head, annoyed, but still didn’t leave the men and when a silence settled between the three she realized that was what Rose wanted her to do. She turned back her head, her gaze defiant and Rose sighed.

" You are a pain," he spoke rubbing his temples.

Stacie’s voice could be heard over the small crowd, " Yeah, I had a difficult time getting over here. Some rebels were blocking the path protesting something. They wouldn’t let a ship through. Had to wait until Intergalactic Security Forces stepped in. I totally thought I would be late."

Diana’s and Ryo’s brows furrowed in response to Stacie’s words. The rebels hadn’t protested or blocked routes for the last thirteen years. Why they would start now was odd and slightly disturbing. Ryo looked at his Commander and noticed her concern as well. She shrugged, what could they do, they were a cargo ship. She sipped her champagne waiting out the festivities.

***

Ryo was sitting at the break room’s lone table when Bikky saw him through the open door and ran in to sit beside him. Ryo had just returned from the Senate offices, Diana deciding to stay behind to check out the antique stores. Ryo had changed into jeans and a black turtleneck. He looked over at the teenager with a smile.

" Whatcha up to?" Bikky was chewing gum and after his question blew a bubble.

Ryo shrugged, " Just decompressing. Had to smile and shmooze and put on a good face for the Senate," had to dodge the pushy Senator Rose.

" Yeah, but I heard that the uniforms were already picked out."

Ryo nodded, " Yes, I think they look rather nice. Much more professional."

Bikky smiled, " So, we should be going soon?"

" I would assume so."

Suddenly the warning system went off causing Ryo and Bikky to start. Ryo looked at Bikky and spoke, " Go to your room until I come get you, understand?"

Bikky scowled, " Man, I’m not a kid!"

Ryo glared and the boy shrank back, " Understand?"

" Damn, yeah," then he was up and running for his room.

Ryo sprinted to the Bridge and was the first there, followed by Dee, J.J., then Drake all in civilian clothes.

Lieutenant Laytner gave out orders, " Everyone stations. Maclean, to the communications station. Adams, find out what is wrong and Maclean contact the Commander."

Ryo took his seat which was behind the Captain’s chair, his back to the others, while Parker and Adams sat at their stations to the right of the Captain’s chair.

Ensign Adams was swift, " There is a fire on the Storage Deck and it looks like it is creeping onto the Quarters Area fast."

" A fire?" Dee frowned, " Okay, dispatch Fire Safety. Maclean, how’s it coming?"

Ryo nodded, but didn’t look back at his superior, " I have Commander Spacey on the line now. Permission to call Bikky Goldman to the Bridge, he is in his quarters."

The Lieutenant nodded, " Permission granted. Open a channel to the Commander."

Diana spoke and her voice could be heard throughout the various speakers on the Bridge, " What is wrong with my ship?"

Dee answered, " A fire Ma’am, Fire Safety has been dispatched and it should be contained within min–"

" There is a ship coming!" Bikky’s voice was almost shrill.

" What?" Ryo looked over at the teenager.

" Bikky!" Diana was annoyed, " Don’t interrupt at a time like this!"

" But!" Bikky was pointing in the direction of the Quarters Area.

Ryo furrowed his brow, " Speak Bikky now."

The young man looked over and nodded his thanks for being listened to, " I can see a ship out the window in my room."

Just as the words were out a loud beeping could be heard and Drake spoke, slightly rushed, " The kid’s right Lieutenant! There is a ship off the starboard side. It’s gaining and fast!"

" We’re docked Lieutenant!" J.J. spoke almost a bit too loud, " We can’t maneuver!"

Dee ran his hand through his hair and he and Diana spoke in unison, " Prepare for impact!"

Ryo leapt from his place and grabbed Bikky in a tight hug, just as the approaching ship slammed into Glorious’ side. The crew jerked, Drake’s head snapped back and hit the headrest with such a force that he bit his tongue and his vision splotched with black. J.J. was thrown completely from his seat and Dee holding on to the railings that surrounded the Captain’s chair felt the shock of the impact through his arms. Ryo and Bikky hadn’t been flung that far, but Bikky knew that if Ryo hadn’t been holding him his small frame would have been tossed far and he would possibly be broken.

Dee regained his composure first he was yelling at J.J., " Adams, report!"

" The ship is dislodged! It’s falling off the docking guards and is falling on her own!"

" Then re-dock her in section F!"

" I can’t! The cleats are destroyed!" J.J. was frantic.

Diana could be heard, she sounded calm, " Ensign Maclean, make a call to the Senate and request use of their landing pad. Ensign Adams, Ensign Parker, keep her steady until Maclean gets an answer," her calming tone had a positive effect on the crew.

" Commander," J.J.’s voice was small, " I can’t land a ship this large."

" Never mind that!" Ryo spat out, " I can. We have authorization," Ryo was out of his seat in a flash and was moving to the Navigations sation. Drake relinquished his seat and Ryo sat, placing his hand to his ear he spoke to the Senate’s aviation desk, " Send the quardinates now."

Once on the view screen Ryo began to navigate the ship in the direction of the landing pad. Suddenly Drake spoke from his new place at the Informations sation, " The ship is losing energy, I don’t think she can make it!"

Ryo scowled, biting the inside of his cheek. The Lieutenant stepped up behind him and whispered, " Maclean, how good are you at landing a ship?"

" As long as I have the quardinates I will be fine, but Parker is right. I can feel the ship losing strength."

Dee sighed, " How good are you?"

Ryo looked up at him briefly and realized that the Lieutenant wanted to do something rash, " Damn good."

Dee nodded turning and taking a seat in the Captain’s chair " Parker, cut all unnecessary uses for power and divert to Navagations. Leave lights and all stations up and running only in this sector."

" Yes Sir, however," Drake spoke as he was carrying out orders, " I don’t think it will be enough."

Dee pushed the button on the arm of the chair that opened up the large view screen that was directly in front of him.

Parker spoke, " Still losing power Sir."

Dee narrowed his eyes and waited until he could see the landing pad on the screen.

" I’m losing control," Ryo spoke through gritted teeth, " I need more power or we are going to crash."

Dee waited a little longer, then, " Parker, cut lights and all sation power except Maclean’s helm and this screen. Divert remaining power to Navigations. Maclean, it’s all you."

Ryo looked up and understood immediately, he was to land the ship manually. Without lights his controls could not be seen to land the ship by watching the small screen on the helm like was expected. He had to watch the large view screen as if he was looking out a large windshield to land the ship. He licked his lips, he used to pilot his own planes on Earth, although this vessel was considerably larger it was the same concept. His hands were steady and he guided the ship down gracefully. It landed with a jolt that was to be expected. Ryo leaned back and sighed. The deed was done.

Lieutenant Laytner spoke, " Ensign Parker, if there is any power left use it to reconnect with Commander Spacey. Inform her that we are alright, but that a full report will not be ready until we have the efficient amount of fuel to re-power long enough to began a proper assessment."

" Yes Sir."

" Maclean, good work," Dee nodded at his subordinate.

Soon the Commander’s voice could be heard again after Drake had told he all he was commanded to. She sounded calm, but Dee noticed the tightness in her voice, " View screen up. Divert all power if need be. Lieutenant, listen carefully. Keep everyone on the ship, I’m coming aboard."

The view screen was put back on, there was enough power that nothing had to be shut down. The picture had horizontal static lines of black and white racing across. Someone was hacking into the Federation’s channels and was attempting to use their air waves to send a message. Soon a face could be seen, stretched and jumping. Then the picture was crystal clear.

It was a male of the alien race know as the G’nar. They looked human the only thing that let people know otherwise was that they had a gash running down the center of their faces. Like someone took a big cleaver and tried to cut their face in half.

The man spoke, his voice was harsh and a bit gravelly, " I am called Domartus, sole Commander of the G’nar Army. The G’nar Empire has declared war on Earth and all her colonies owned and pending. The attack on your cargo ship was only a warning. Surrender and we will see that the death of your people will be swift," Domartus looked over to his right then scowled, obviously the United Earth Federation had already sent their answer, " So be it!" Domartus roared and soon a violent shaking could be felt beneath the feet of the Glorious crew. Domartus raised his hand, larger than a human’s to the point that it was almost grotesque. He scouted, " War it shall be!" he slammed his fist down and the connection was broken.

Ryo looked away from the screen and remembered Stacie Mathews words. She was wrong it wasn’t the rebels of the lunar colonies, it was the G’nar.

J.J. voiced Ryo’s thoughts, " Why?"

" Who the hell cares," Dee crossed his arms, " it isn’t important anyway..." his voice trailed.

Two claps and the crew all turned and saluted their Commander. Diana growled, " Hands down, you good for nothing fools!"

They all looked puzzled so she continued, " You are telling me that it didn’t seem important to tell me that you couldn’t land the ship!" she noticed J.J.’s wince and amended her words, " I am not just talking about Adams. None of you said a damn thing!" she was furious, " So it has just been luck that we haven’t cashed and burned yet! Dammit I have half a mind to request a transfer for all of you!" She slammed her fist on the communications console, " Parker, Adams this will go in your record. Withholding information as important as this will have it’s consequences." her glare was cold, then she turned her attention to Ryo, features softened somewhat, " Maclean, nice work, I will be sure to add this to your record as well."

Diana straightened, " I have good news and bad news. Bad news, from the outside the ship is in a bad way. Good news, the Senate has agreed to pay for the repairs," she rolled her eyes, " They want us off their pad as soon as possible I suppose. Bad news, the G’nar are crazy bastards who just blew up the ship that rammed into us and there are many causalities. Good news, Earth has declared war and we will be kicking their asses in no time," Diana then looked over to her Second in Command saddened, " Worst news...Dee, you’ve been called back to the ‘Stetson’. I have your orders, you have three days to report to the war ship and you will be one of the first to go out into battle."

No one had noticed the folder in her hand until she mentioned it, J.J. paled then ran from the Bridge. Ryo sank back into his chair, trembling. He looked up at Dee and all he got in return was a hopeless shrug. Taking the folder Dee left the Bridge silently, never looking back.

***

Ryo sat at the Communications station, still trembling, still upset. He didn’t know why, but the fact that Dee was leaving the ship sent chills down his spine. He didn’t want him to go, he looked up helplessly at is Commander.

Diana noticed him and dropping to her knees whispered, " I am so sorry..."

" How?" was Ryo’s whispered reply.

" Apparently, the Earth has known for some time of what the G’nar was planing. They had his orders written up and ready to go for weeks," She put her hand on Ryo’s knee and using it as leverage, pushed up, " Ensign Parker, I need you to leave the ship and find us some fuel. Take your time, we are going to be here a while anyway. Young Mr. Goldman, I need for you to do a walk through for me, understand that once maintenance shows up they will do one of their own, however, I will accept an early report from you," She then turned ready to leave the Bridge, " I will be in my office. Ensign Maclean, clean up in here and fix any minimal damage that you can."

Drake left first, making his way to his room to change into his uniform. Bikky stood beside Ryo and waited until the man noticed his presence.

" Yes Bikky?" Ryo’s voice sounded weary.

" Dude, I’m sorry,"Bikky shrugged as if he wanted to say more, but couldn’t think of anything. So he turned, running out of the room.

Ryo slumped back in his chair and sighed. It hadn’t been a week yet and already Dee was affecting him. Ryo ran his fingers through his hair, this really sucked.

---

Dee had already began to pack his duffle and personal bags, when the buzzer to his door had sounded, he had hoped it was Ryo. He was mortified it was a frantic J.J. with eyes red and puffy from crying. J.J. had let himself in so Dee had no choice to listen to the man’s whaling.

" You can’t go!" J.J. sounded shrill and nasal.

" I don’t have a choice," Dee lifted the folder with his orders, " You see this. It says where to and how long and many years ago I signed a paper giving them the right to do it."

J.J. had went to the Lieutenant’s quarters after pacing for a while in his own room. He was determined to find a way to make the man stay. There had to be a loop hole, a clause in the contract overlooked, someone he could bribe, anything so Dee Laytner wouldn’t have to go.

" You haven’t been on the ‘Stetson’ in years! How do they even know you retained half of that knowledge?" J.J. slumped to the bed burying his face in his hands, " This is awful."

" Look Adams, you and I go way back, went to training together and everything. While we’re not exactly friends you still know I wouldn’t lie to you," Dee walked over and standing above the man on his bed looked down, " I will come back."

J.J.’s head snapped up abruptly and there was a smile so wide and eerie that Dee took a step away, " You would do that for me!" there was hope and longing in his voice and the man had clasped his hands together tightly, expectant.

" Umm..." Dee bit his lower lip, " well, not just for you, per say, it’s that I like this ship and the entire crew in general."

It was as if Dee hadn’t spoken at all, " I will be waiting for you!" J.J. shot up and wrapping his arms around Dee’s neck, kissed him.

Dee had seen the gesture coming so he had pressed his lips together, hiding them. So all J.J. was really kissing was the flesh above and below where Dee’s lips should have been. Dee had hooked his thumbs below J.J.’s shoulders and was now pushing into the sensitive flesh of the man’s underarms. J.J. yelped in discomfort and Dee used the break to step back.

" Damn Adams, what the hell are you thinking!" Dee resisted th urge to wipe is mouth, that would’ve been a low blow, " I am your Superior!"

J.J. tilted his head back, eyes going dark all of a sudden, " You are Maclean’s as well," his voice was accusing and no longer shrill.

Dee narrowed his eyes, " I suggest you don’t imply. If you have something to say then say it."

J.J. walked past his Lieutenant, toward the door, " I have nothing else to say," he stopped abruptly turning to face Dee, " Just know that with one call, I could have you backed into a corner."

" You have some balls threatening me."

J.J. sighed his shoulders slumping forward, " I’m not...I can’t...Just, what the hell do you see in him?"

Dee scowled, " Get out of my room," if he didn’t admit to it then J.J. really couldn’t blackmail him, " and that’s an order."

---

Diana was in her office pouring a glass of Brandy. She tipped her head back and swallowed it in one swig. She then plopped down in her chair rubbing in between her eyes trying to alleviate the building tension headache. Suddenly she was startled when her Vidphone signaled that she had a call. She reached forward and pushing a button on her desk watched as a section of the dark wood slid aside and a video screen rose from underneath. Diana smiled at the man on the screen.

" Commander Spacey," a distinguished looking gentleman, not old in age but still sporting white cropped hair appeared on screen, " I heard that your proposal was finally accepted," a warm smile, " Thank God!"

The man, Leslie Reynolds, was the Commander of the ‘Stetson’. Kind and fair, he was highly respected throughout the United Earth Federation and he had fought tooth and nail to keep Dee on board when Senator Rose had him removed. He was handsome with cool gray eyes and dark lashes and brows. He and Diana were great friends.

Diana laughed a bit, " Well, yes, but it was really a crew member of mine who changed the Senate’s mind."

The man raised a brow and he looked even more attractive, " You mean who changed Senator Rose’s mind."

" Well, yes," Diana was nodding and smiling, " Anyway, if you called to let me know that Lieutenant Laytner received orders to return to your ship, don’t bother, I already know because I already gave them to him today and you shall have him back on your ship in a few days."

The man nodded, " I still believe that the Senate overstepped their bounds with that one. Removing a member of my crew was highly uncalled for."

Diana sighed, " I’m still trying to figure out how they got away with it. The Senate is there for the people of Earth and the colonies and have no business with space matters. The only time they are needed for space issues is when the Federation needs a neutral judge on things they can’t decide on. There was no conflict between you and Lieutenant Laytner so I don’t know why Rose’s suggestion to move him was even listened too."

" I agree," Commander Reynolds was frowning, " no matter, I will have him back for a while at least and I intend on catching up and making the most of the time he has with us. Laytner really is a good man...I think it is a shame that Rose has tarnished his reputation."

Diana nodded, " Yeah, that does suck. Rose has everyone thinking he is a sorry ass troop, that doesn’t know his place or know his job. The Lieutenant takes it all in stride though, I don’t know how he doesn’t lose it every time he sees the Senator."

Leslie nodded, " He is a much bigger man than me, I would have said a few choice words to the Senator."

Diana smirked, " Yeah, well...I would have punched his lights out."

A rich laugh came from Leslie, " Yes, yes I suppose you would! None the less the reason for my call is simple, I just wanted to pick a place where the exchange would take place."

" Well, my ship is in pretty bad shape right now," Diana ignored the look of concern on her friend’s face, " So just meet us at the Senate’s landing pad. We will be stuck here for a while anyway."

Leslie nodded," Very well then. I will see you in three days."

---

Ryo wasn’t a mechanic. He really didn’t know what the Commander thought he could fix on the Bridge. So he, after changing into his uniform, took it upon himself to make notes and write down all the damage he could find, he would give it to the Senate’s ship mechanics once they came on board.

He was under the Navigations station on his back when someone tapped his knee. He shut off his small flashlight and wiggled out from under the helm. He sat up and was pleased to see Dee sitting crossed legged in front of him head cocked to the right.

" Sup," Dee grinned.

Ryo shrugged, " Not much, I can’t fix anything in here so I am doing the best I can to find all the hazards at least."

Dee nodded, " You did a wonderful job landing the ship. She’s a big bird."

Ryo shrugged again, " It had to be done."

" True, but it was done quite gracefully," Dee looked up at the helm Ryo was just under, "A lot of the younger men freak out when they lose power. Feel like they can’t do anything without the computer," he looked down toying with the sole of Ryo’s boots.

Ryo smiled, " Good thing I have experience then."

Dee looked up thorough dark bangs with a slight smile. In the darkened room his emerald eyes still twinkled and Ryo slowly took in a breath. Dee could be painfully beautiful at times.

Dee whispered, " Yeah, I guess it is," his hand had stopped playing with Ryo’s footwear and he was now slowing trailing his fingers up and down Ryo’s calf and inner knee, " Then again if you didn’t have experience I would be more than happy to teach you."

Ryo raised an eyebrow, he knew Dee wasn’t talking about the ship now, " I bet you would love that."

Dee chuckled, " I think it would be fun, yes."

Ryo shook his head then slapped Dee’s hand away, " So are you happy about going back to a war ship?"

Dee’s brows rose, " Who told you I used to be on one?"

" Senator Rose."

Dee narrowed his eyes, " What else did he say?"

" Not too much, gave me his opinion about you," Ryo smiled, " He doesn’t seem to like you all that much."

Dee sighed leaning back to rest his weight on his hands that he had stretched out behind him, " No he doesn’t, but the odd thing is I really don’t know why. I never had any trouble on my old ship. I just don’t get it..." his voice trailed off and Ryo knew he was replaying all the times he had spoken with the Senator.

Ryo tried to change the conversation into something more upbeat, " Apparently the United Earth must still think highly of you though. You must be a great crew member if they would ask you back for battle."

" Yeah, either that or they are low on men," Dee chuckled and Ryo could tell that he didn’t believe they were low on man power. Dee knew he was shit hot.

Ryo spoke, " What did you do on the ship?"

Dee beamed, proud, " I maned one of the twelve guns. The ‘Stetson’ is an old girl so all her weapons are manual."

Ryo smiled, " That must of took years of training."

" Nah, it wasn’t that long and it was actually kinda fun," Dee was suddenly frowning, " Hated all the damn paperwork though..."

" Paperwork?" Ryo raised his brow.

Dee rubbed the back of his neck sheepishly, leaning forward to hang his hands in his lap, " Yeah...well, I thought the rifle was on safety..." he let out a nervous chuckle at the sight of Ryo’s horrified expression, " Thank God Adams did the work I would have gone crazy if I had to write up all those reports and apologies."

Ryo’s face darkened a bit at that statement, " You mean J.J. Adams? So you and him are close?"

Dee looked at Ryo confused, " I already said no."

" You just said..."

Dee sighed heavily, " He did my paperwork. We went to the same training facility and we were both on the ‘Stetson’," Dee made and annoyed expression, but it wasn’t directed at Ryo, " He followed me around like a young puppy and even requested to be transferred when I made the move here."

Ryo nodded, " Yeah, Rose told me that too."

Dee smirked, " You two sure did have a long conversation..." his tone was just as must questioning as it was accusing.

" We talked a while, yes," Ryo tilted his head back in a silent dare, wanting to see just how much more Dee would accuse him of. Once he noticed Dee wasn’t going to say anything farther he continued, " Rose told me that everyone except for Adams was hand pick by him."

Dee nodded, " Yep, he stuck his head were it didn’t belong," Dee gritted his teeth and whispered angrily under his breath, " and he’s trying to do it again."

Ryo heard Dee’s words and he knew what he was referring to. Ryo smiled and touched Dee’s hand gently, Dee looked up eyebrows raised, " He’s not a nice man."

Dee smiled, " No he’s not," he turned his hand and squeezed Ryo’s before releasing it, " Anyway, the only people he shuffled around was Parker, Spacey, and yours truly."

" Why?" Ryo had all, but forgotten what he should be doing and was listening intently to Dee.

" I don’t know why he had Parker moved although there is much speculation that he found out something he shouldn’t. He moved Spacey just to hurt her and I already told you that I don’t know why he moved me."

Ryo was shaking his head, " How would a move hurt the Commander?"

Dee sighed then leaned back resting his weight on his palms, " She and him were...close," he put emphasis on the last word and Ryo understood the meaning, " She wanted to change jobs to be near him, confessed her love, yada yada yada and he shot her down. From what she told me it wasn’t a gracious polite let down either. He was rather harsh. Anyway, she was on a war ship also, she prided herself on the fact that she was one of the best pilots out there. Her ship, the ‘Reinhold’, was very influential in keeping the peace between the rebel moon colonies and the Earth during that spat 13 years ago. So much so that the leader of the rebels often used the crew to carry messages back and forth between the Senate and themselves. That being said, Spacey and Rose saw a lot of each other and the Commander thought that the chemistry was returning and I guess made a move to show him how she felt," Dee shrugged, it was slow and sad, " He made a fuss in the middle of the Senate offices, humiliated her really, then told her that he will prove to her once and for all that she meant nothing to him. Spacey was given her transport papers two days later."

Ryo was staring, mouth agape, with a pained expression on his face. His words came out a whisper, " That is awful..."

Just then Diana stepped onto the Bridge, " Yes, so sad, however, I fail to see why my humiliation has any bearing on carrying out your orders Ensign Maclean," her voice was light and she didn’t look mad, none the less, Ryo stood with a blush and began to apologize, but his words were cut short by a wave of Diana’s hand, " Sit, sit, I’m not mad," she took a seat in the Captain’s chair and smiled at Ryo as he returned to his place on the floor.

Dee flung his head back looking at Diana in a very unprofessional manner, " Can we help you?"

Diana smirked, " Oh no, please don’t let me interrupt your conversation. Go ahead and tell Maclean how Rose called me a ‘simple woman’ and how he used me just for ‘sexual release’ and his ‘amusement’. Please by all means, apparently this is much more important than my broken ship!" her voice stayed at a level volume, but Ryo now knew that she embarrassed. Though he didn’t know if it was from the event with Rose or the fact that they were talking about it behind her back. He offered an apology anyway.

Dee rolled his eyes, " Bitter much? Sheesh."

Diana thumped Dee in the forehead with her index finger then turned so that she was facing the two men then leaning forward, her elbows on her knees. She spoke, " Report."

Ryo handed over his notes and spoke, grateful that the Navagations area was last on his list so there wouldn’t be any missing areas in his report, " I am not able to repair anything Ma’am, but I have mapped out the possible hazards and made a note of all that could cause considerably more damage if not treated right away."

Diana nodded, " Very good Ensign," she smiled then clasping her hands together, "So, if my story made you have the look I saw on your face when I walked in Maclean I can imagine just how mortified you must have looked when the Lieutenant told you his reason for being sent here!" she let out a little laugh.

Dee turned around completely then, " You know?"

Diana looked down smiling, " Of course I know," upon seeing Dee’s widened eyes she frowned, " you mean you don’t?"

Dee shook his head.

" Oh my..." Diana bit her bottom lip, " well, you have the right to know, I guess. I will tell you after my ship has been inspected by the mechanics."

Dee knew she was giving him a way to escape getting the news in front of Ryo, but Dee was going to tell the man anyway so why should it matter now? Dee shook his head, " We have time," he looked up at her, his eyes hard and demanding, " Now tell me, what did I do to piss off the Senator?"