"Robotech - To The Stars: Aftermath - The First Year"
Chapter 18
February 17th, 2015

It was 7am and Kohl walked towards Lisa's quarters wondering if he were visiting too early. When he arrived in front of Lisa's door, he hesitated one more time, then rung the door chime.
Kim came out of the bathroom with her robe tightly wrapped and hurried to the door. Kim opened the door to find Kirk standing there uttering an apology for calling on them so early. Kim waved him off and told him to come inside.
"I'm used to waking up earlier than this, but that doesn't mean I like it. Anyways, go ahead and make yourself something to drink," chattered Kim as she headed back to towards the bathroom. After getting dressed quickly, she came back to the living room to find Kohl had fixed three cups of tea and he was sitting on the couch quietly sipping his cup.
"How's Admiral Hayes?" asked Kohl with a bit of concern.
Kim had been in such a rush to get dressed that she forgot to check on Lisa. She hurried back to Lisa's room and quietly called her name. After she didn't wake up, Kim went over to her and lightly shook her by the shoulder. After a few seconds Lisa moved her head slightly and let out a small groan.
"Lisa, are you alright?" asked Kim, relieved at the fact that Lisa seemed to have woken up from her deep sleep.
Lisa groaned again then groggily said, "I feel like s--t."
Kim, almost as direct as Claudia was known to be, replied, "Yeah well you look like s--t."
"So much for sympathy," moaned Lisa, although she wasn't mad at Kim's comment and Kim knew it.
Kim kneeled down so Lisa could see her and Kim asked in nearly a whisper, "Lisa, are you sure you're alright? Now you listen to me. You better not get hooked on those painkillers and sleeping pills or else I'll-"
Lisa reached over and lightly swatted Kim on the nose. "Yes mother, don't worry about me and pills."
Kim rubbed her nose, "Go ahead and hit me again if you want but I am serious Lisa. NO pills. I mean, just take what the doctor allows, and NOTHING more, is that understood?? I'm gonna say it straight; I don't want you getting addicted and we both know that it's very possible you could. Over the past year you've adopted a very self-destructive way of dealing with stress."
Lisa looked at Kim and felt ashamed. Her friend knew her better than she knew herself and she felt embarrassed that she appeared to not be able to take care of herself. Lisa sighed and shook her head.
Kim asked, "How are you feeling right now, I mean, besides feeling like s--t."
"I think I'm in more pain than I was yesterday," said Lisa regretfully.
Kim shook her head, "I don't doubt it. Have you seen your back? If that were me, I'd be out for at least two weeks!"
"Damn. This isn't the way I wanted to start off," grumbled Lisa
"Listen, you were injured twice in two days, and you need to get some rest. I am going to ask Breetai to give you at least one week's rest," replied Kim.
"No Kim, I can't-" protested Lisa.
"Bulls--t. I don't care what you say. You have never known what's good for you and always ended up suffering because of it. Now you are going to rest for one week or else I'm going to request they send you back down to earth. And you can court-martial or demote me if you want but nothing you do will stop me," said Kim firmly.
Lisa gawked at Kim for a moment then felt her eyes well up with tears, "You're too much you know that? ...Thank you. Thank you for being such a good friend."
Kim shrugged, "We're all one big family you know, me, you, Sammie, Claudia, Vanessa..."
"Admiral Gloval..." added Lisa.
Kim nodded and looked away. Lisa suddenly remembered that was a touchy subject for Kim and she quickly said, "I'm sorry..."
Kim shook her head and stood up, "No, you're right. We can't forget that he was practically like a father to us all."
Lisa pushed herself up and tried to get up but was having trouble and Kim was already grumbling, "You are not going to work today."
"I know I know," retorted Lisa, "I have to go to the bathroom."
"Oh! Alright let me help you up," replied Kim as she quickly helped Lisa up.
Lisa steadied herself and she headed to the bathroom, walking very stiffly. Kim rushed after her before Lisa made it to the door, "Oh by the way, Kohl is here. He's waiting in the living room, he came by to see how you were doing."
Lisa raised an eyebrow, "Really? He didn't have to do that."
"Yeah well, he came by last night too, but you were asleep," answered Kim.
Lisa chuckled a little, and said, "I guess he really feels bad huh?"
Kim laughed, "I don't know. I think he is really remorseful, but also it seems to me that he likes you."
Lisa frowned, "Likes me? You can't be serious."
Kim grew more serious, "Well, I don't know. It's just, nah nevermind, I must be paranoid or something."
Lisa nodded warily then tried to perk up, "If you ask me, I think that he most probably likes you."
Kim rolled her eyes and said, "I thought you had to go to the bathroom? Go on."
Kim headed back to the living room and informed Kohl that Lisa would be out in a few minutes.

"Admiral Hayes, ma'am," said Kohl as he stood up and saluted.
Lisa saluted then shuffled to the couch and sat down with much difficulty and a loud wince.
"Are you alright ma'am? Is there anything I can get you?" asked Kohl, trying to alleviate her discomfort in any way he could.
Lisa shook her head and reached for her cup but couldn't quite reach it so Kohl quickly hurried over and picked it up and handed it to her.
"Thank you Lieutenant," replied Lisa with a smile.
"You're very welcome ma'am."
Lisa tried to shift the attention off of herself and lighten the mood by stating, "So, Lieutenant Kohl, I'm quite surprised, but pleased to see that Commander Young hasn't given you two black eyes."
Kohl smiled, looking at Kim quickly, then saying, "Well, for the moment I seem to be off the hook."
Kim snorted, "Dont bet on it."
They all laughed and Lisa was pleased to see that Kim and Kohl were on pretty friendly terms.
"So, while I'm here being a useless invalid, what do you two have planned for today?" asked Lisa.
Kim scolded, "Don't start. You're going to rest. I know you don't know the meaning of that word, but you're going to find that out this week even if I have to put you under house arrest."
Kohl laughed, "Admiral, you didn't tell me you brought your mother with you!"
Kim growled and hit Kohl on the shoulder.
Lisa laughed. Despite her troubles, Lisa found much amusement in watching Kim and Kohl. Yes, perhaps this couple would work out, she thought to herself.
Kim answered with a fake mean sidelong glance at Kohl, "Well, I don't know what this guy is going to do today, and frankly I don't care. As for me, I'll have everything taken care of, so don't you worry about a thing."
Kohl saw that Lisa was expecting a reply from him as well so he said, "I have ferry duty until 5pm, then after that I was planning to grab dinner, and...I was hoping that you and Commander Young would join me."
Lisa hid her smile behind her tea cup and then said, "I thank you for the offer but I don't think I'll be able to make it as you can tell, but you two go on ahead. Bring me back some leftovers though, if you don't mind. I heard the pasta was pretty good here."
Kim was ready to protest but Kohl said, "It would be our pleasure Admiral."
Kim frowned and rolled her eyes at Kohl having answered for her, since she didn't agree to eat dinner with him yet. She saw the amusement in Lisa's eyes and didn't want to disappoint her so Kim said, "Sure Lisa, we'll bring you back some of the good stuff. The spaghetti is great!"
Kohl looked at Kim and smiled at her and in return Kim rolled her eyes. Lisa held her laugh and put her tea cup down and tried to get up off the couch but couldn't so Kim and Kohl each took one of her arms and helped her up.
"I'm going back to bed and rest. You two have a good day and dinner," said Lisa with a weak smile.
Kim followed Lisa back to her room and picked up the bottle of painkillers and asked, "Alright, how many of these do you get a day?" Before Lisa could answer, Kim had already opened up the bottle and poured out 4 pills and put them on Lisa's nightstand, then capped the bottled and stuck it in her pocket. "I'm keeping these with me. You're only suppose to have 4 a day. The nurse is coming over this afternoon right? What are you going to do about lunch? Nevermind, I'll stop by and bring you something."
Lisa stared at Kim and said quietly, "Yes ma'am. Again, Kim, thank you."
Kim smiled and headed out the door and motioned for Kohl to follow her.

As they waited for the elevator, Kohl said, "You don't have to go to dinner with me if you don't want to. I know you probably only said you would so as to not disappoint Admiral Hayes."
Kim paused for a moment then looked at him and smiled, "Are you saying you don't want to have dinner with me?"
The elevator arrived and the two stepped into the small space.
"No not at all. I know it was probably too arrogant of me to assume you'd go out to dinner with me," said Kohl sincerely.
Kim was impressed by his self-awareness and told him, "I don't mind going to dinner with you."
"Really?" Kohl asked with some surprise.
Kim shrugged, "Sure why not? We are friends now aren't we?"
Kohl smiled, "Yes, yes we are."
Kim nodded then the door opened and she headed off to work but said as she left, "I'll meet you at the Mess Hall at around 6pm, but if I'm late, don't think I stood you up, I get delayed a lot."
Kohl grinned and saluted, "Yes ma'am."

* * * * * * *

Claudia, Jean, Vanessa, Sammie, and Rick were standing on the pier waiting for the final call for departure. Vanessa felt her legs shake a bit and walked back and forth from time to time to help herself stay on her feet. She was wearing a new uniform, which consisted of black pants, a light blue button-down shirt, a sort of vest-like windbreaker, and army boots. She thought it was a hideous looking outfit, but she was glad that she wouldn't have to spend her time on the submarine wearing a skirt and heels.
After another 5 minutes, the boarding call was made and Vanessa hoisted her duffle bag onto her shoulder. "Well, I guess this is it," she mused.
Sammie, who had been brave throughout the entire morning, started crying, and Vanessa tried hard to keep from crying herself.
"Hey Sam, come on, stop that now. I'll be fine," said Vanessa, trying to calm Sammie down.
Sammie nodded and sniffled and Rick and Claudia put a comforting hand on each of Sammie's shoulders. Vanessa hugged everyone then headed down the ramp to the waiting vessel. Vanessa turned around, saluted, then disappeared into the ship. Several minutes later, the hatch slid shut and the submarine headed out of the bay quietly.

"Captain Leeds, as I said before, it is a great pleasure to have you onboard," said a tall, 40-ish man. "I don't believe you've had a chance to meet my Executive Officer yet. He was away for several weeks, he just arrived back today, just in time for departure.
A man in his early thirties introduced himself, "Good morning Captain, I have heard a lot of good things about you. I am Commander Finn."
Vanessa shook hands with Finn and then saluted him and the Captain. "It is a great honor to be a part of this crew," said Vanessa calmly, hoping she didn't look nervous or insincere.
She followed the captain to the main bridge and was shown her station.
"I'm sorry they could not give you a tour before departure Captain," apologized the Captain.
"It's alright Captain Clemson sir, I will work hard to make sure I am accustomed with the ship as much as possible, as soon as possible," said Vanessa with determination.
Clemson and Finn looked at each other and smiled.
Finn said, "I am comforted to know that we have such a capable, as well as attractive, Second Officer, don't you agree Captain Clemson?"
Clemson laughed and nodded his agreement then he and Finn continued onto another part of the bridge. Vanessa breathed a sigh of relief and slumped a little bit in her chair. She was startled when she heard a voice next to her say, "Hello there! We meet again! Don't worry ma'am, if you need any help with anything, you let me know."
Vanessa turned her head and saw that the voice came from the same guy that she had met at the Valentine's Day party.
"It's you!" exclaimed Vanessa, who then quickly looked around, hoping that she hadn't been overheard by Finn and Clemson.
"Yes, it's me. It's very nice to see you again ma'am. Now I don't have to wait till I get back to port to call you." The sailor stuck out his hand for a handshake and said, "I don't think we were really formally introduced at the party. You might know me as Joe, but they'll formally call me Joseph or Seaman Smith."
Vanessa inclined her head, "Very nice to meet you, again, Joe."
Joe looked around and then said quickly and in a lowered voice, "I didn't get to tell you last time, but I want to tell you now, I think you're a great dancer."
Vanessa felt her cheeks grow red and said shyly, "Thank you. No one's ever complimented me on my dancing before."
Joe looked surprised, "No way!"
"Well, Kim is the one who always gets all the attention, then Sammie. I'm kind of the most low-key of the three," explained Vanessa.
Joe shook his head, "Well, that's really hard to imagine, you sure caught my attention right away."
Vanessa blushed again and was trying to figure out how to reply when they heard the order to dive.
After they had been travelling for two hours, Captain Clemson came over to Vanessa's area and chatted for awhile. "So, Chief, how is everything going? We don't expect very much for the first several days of the trip. These waters we're passing through right now are in neutral territory and we'll make two passes then head north, which from what I've been told, is where some strange happenings have been occurring. We'll need the Radar crew at their best."
"Yes sir! The crew will be ready and waiting for your orders and any situations that arise sir," replied Vanessa crisply. Then Vanessa added, "Sir, I would like to report that I've picked up a small blip on the long-range sonar. There's no signature for it, and it could just be a dolphin or shark, but what I've noticed is that it seems to be following us sir."
Clemson raised his eyebrows with interest and smiled, "Ahhh, how very interesting. How far away is it?"
"Thirty kilometers sir," replied Vanessa.
"That's fine. I'm not too worried about it, it's pretty far away from us, probably just a school of dolphins. But thank you for the report Captain, it's good to know I have a diligent Radar Chief onboard," said Clemson with a smile.
After Clemson had left the bridge, Vanessa turned to Joe and said quietly, "Track that blip as long as you can. When I was on the SDF-1, several times these little blips turned out to be trouble. I just want to be on the safe side."
"Yes ma'am," said Joe confidently.
The tech on the other side of Vanessa looked over his shoulder then leaned over and asked quietly, "Captain, ma'am, you don't think we could be in trouble do you?"
Vanessa looked at the tech, who seemed to be barely 18 years old. He looked worried and Vanessa suspected that this might be his first mission so she tried to put him at ease by saying, "For now, I don't believe so. But I want to keep an eye on things to make sure. It's better to be safe than sorry."
The tech nodded then added, "Ma'am, I've heard a lot of stories about the SDF-1. I was wondering if you could tell me about them sometime. Like the time when the SDF-1 escaped Khyron's trap on Mars. I've tried to read up all I can on that incident. It was brilliant, and really amazing how it happened."
Vanessa looked at the tech for a moment, he seemed a starry-eyed teenager. She had come across many of those over the past couple years. People joining the RDF after they had heard and read of the many 'adventures' of the SDF-1. But they really didn't know, and couldn't understand just how hard and sometimes terrifying her job was. She and the rest of the bridge crew had often been privvy to knowledge that had never been made public. Knowledge of how many times the SDF-1 came to nearly being destroyed, of how many soliders were lost, and how mentally, physically, and emotionally stressful her job was. They couldn't possibly understand.
Vanessa gave the tech the generic answer she'd adopted for all the others who had asked her the same question numerous times. She smiled and said, "Sure, when we have some time, maybe I'll tell you a little bit about what happened."
The tech looked as if he had just been visited by Santa Claus and said eagerly, "Oh ma'am that would be so great! Really, if it's not too much trouble ma'am, I'd like to hear all about it, and any other war stories you have to tell."
Vanessa wore a fake smile and nodded her head. The tech continued to gush, "Ma'am, you don't know what an honor it is to serve right next to you ma'am! We've read so much about the different skirmishes and missions of the SDF-1 and you ladies on the bridge really were something!"
Vanessa sat there and let the tech get it out of his system, then she smiled and excused herself to report to the Officer's meeting that was suppose to start in 10 minutes.

The meeting was rather boring, just status reports and itinery plans as well as scheduling assignments. Vanessa was glad to head back to her station but found her seat occupied by a woman, a 2nd Lieutenant, as far as Vanessa could tell from the markings she saw on the woman's uniform.
"Captain Leeds ma'am!" saluted the woman. "I am 2nd Lieutenant Zenta. You may call me Zen, everyone does."
Vanessa grinned slightly, "Zen?"
Zenta smiled and said, "Yes, everyone calls me that, they say it's good luck.
Vanessa remembered the name now and said, "Yes, yes I remember now. I read your file, it seems that you actually do bring good luck with you."
Zenta laughed and said, "Well, I don't know if it was all just coincedence, but I certainly hope that I do bring good luck."
Vanessa nodded, "I hope so too. It's very nice to meet you Zen."
Zen shook Vanessa's hand and said, "Likewise ma'am."
Vanessa was about to ask Zen if she could resume her station when Commander Finn caught sight of her and said from across the room, "Aha, there you are Captain Leeds. Very good, you can relieve me now, I am quite hungry."
Vanessa hesitated and was aware that many of the sailors had turned around and were looking at her. She headed slowly to the command platform that was in the middle of the bridge and saluted Commander Finn.
Finn laughed and said, "Actually, it is I who should be saluting you, since you do outrank me. Here you go ma'am, please cover my watch shift. I shall be back in an hour." With that, Finn and his aide headed off the bridge, leaving Vanessa standing on the platform, looking at the command chair.
"Uhh, excuse me ma'am, you can go ahead and sit down if you want," said a nearby tech.
Vanessa nodded and said a thank you but didn't sit down. She never liked sitting in a command chair and was glad that she didn't have to do it often. There was only one time when she had to take Captain Gloval's chair on the SDF-1, and only several times when she had to take Lisa's spot at the Macross Command Center.
Vanessa decided to pass her time by doing what she normally did when she had to be in charge, and it was not to sit down and wait for things to happen. Instead, she walked around to each station and asked each tech how things were going, chatted with them if they were the chatty sort, then went back to the stations whose functioning she was deficient in and asked the tech to explain or show her a little bit about the station.
Vanessa liked her tactic and thought that it was a good way to build comraderie with the crew, get a feel for how things operated and what the routines were, and gain knowledge of all the ships systems.

* * * * * * *

"Hi Rick!" said Sammie as she set her tray down on the table and took a seat.
"Hey Sammie, how are ya?" said Rick quietly.
Sammie sighed, "Going crazy, as usual. You don't mind if I sit here do you?"
Rick looked at her as if she were speaking a foreign language, "Sammie you know you never have to ask that. Of course you can sit here, I always enjoy your company."
Sammie sighed again then sat down.. The two sat there in silence for several minutes, then Sammie started to cry.
"Sammie, what's wrong?" asked Rick with concern.
"Everything sucks! Antell is giving me hell, Maistroff's making everyone miserable, Kim is gone, Vanessa's gone, everyone is scattered!" Sammie ended with a sniffle and Rick tried to think of something to say to lift her spirits.
"Hey Sam, you know, I was always wondering, when did you and Vanessa and Kim all first meet? Were you at the classmates at the Academy?" asked Rick.
Sammie's eyes widened a bit and she asked, "Do you really want to hear the story? It's kinda long, but it's funny!"
Rick smiled, pleased that he had found something to cheer Sammie up.
"Well," started Sammie, sounding like she was embarking on an epic story re-telling, "Vanessa and Lisa were in the same class and me and Kim came in the year after them. I was really really scared the first day I started at the Academy because I had never been away from home before. I managed to make some friends in the the dorms and we hung out. About a month later they send us a new dormmate and it was Kim. At first we were a bit reluctant to shake up things because you know, change is scary. Anyways, she came to the room and was carrying a huge bag of candy and two pizzas. 'I'm starving' she said and didn't even unpack or say hi to anyone, she just sat down, opened up the pizza boxes, stared at us and said, 'What are you gawking at? Eat before I eat it all!'"
Rick laughed, "That sounds like Kim alright."
Sammie smiled and continued, "We were a pretty quiet bunch so when Kim came over with her take-charge attitude, we all kind of let her be the leader, and it worked out well with everyone. But when Kim and Vanessa met up for the first time, that was something alright. If you thought me and Vanessa fight a lot, you should've seen them at the Academy."
"They were at each other's throats?" asked Rick.
Sammie giggled and said, "Not exactly, but Vanessa did give Kim black eyes!"
"No way! I thought it would be the other way around," chuckled Rick.
Sammie grinned and continued, "Well, you see this is what happened. Vanessa was heavily influenced by her clique. She was always a follower and never a leader and she just went along with what her friends said and did. One day, one of the girls in her group was having an argument with Kim over, geez, I can't even remember, something really trivial and stupid. To the continue the story, Kim and the girl started pushing and shoving each other, and we were trying to get them to stop. Vanessa was trying to stop her friend and she lost her balance somehow, I think someone stepped on her foot so she was kinda tripping backwards, and you know, she's taller than Kim, well Vanessa ended up somehow elbowing Kim in the eye and Kim was knocked down. And everyone thought that Vanessa had done it on purpose. Kim was furious and charged at Vanessa but Vanessa, at that time, had a green belt in Taekwondo, so she went into self-defense mode and brought up her foot and nailed Kim in the other eye. Then a teacher came over and took them both to the Dean's office. While they were sitting outside waiting to be seen by the Dean, they were checking out the guys that were passing down the hallway and so they both called each other sluts, but they started discussing the guys and found that they had alot in common as far as guys were concerned. Then they were talking about how Kim got the first black eye and Vanessa told her it was an accident and the 2nd one was just for self-defense. So, you know, Kim is one of the most reasonable people once she's calmed down. So she apologized to Vanessa and Vanessa apologized to her and by the time they were called into the Dean's office they were friends."
"What was their punishment?" asked Rick.
"Well, Kim told the Dean the whole story and that Vanessa really didn't deserve to be punished and the Dean agreed and Vanessa got reprimanded for trying to stop the fight instead of calling a teacher to break it up and she got detention for a few weeks. Kim got suspended for a week and was sent to Anger Management class and another special class for 'problem' students," ended Sammie with a laugh.
"And then you girls all started hanging out together right?" replied Rick.
"Yeah pretty much. We didn't see Vanessa too much because since she was a class ahead of us, we weren't in the same housing area and didn't have any of the same classes. But during lunches we would catch up with her and of course we'd email her and instant message her alot," explained Sammie.
Sammie took some time to eat some more of her sandwhich and Rick replayed what Sammie had told hiim. After Sammie had finished eating she asked Rick, "So how does it feel to be an Admiral?"
Rick was taken offguard and felt his dread grow as he saw that Sammie was waiting for an answer. Rick cleared his throat then said, "I...I'm not accepting the promotion. That envelope you gave me...it was a Nullification of Promotion form. I...signed it and turned it into Maistroff already."
Sammie gawked at Rick then exclaimed, "If I'd known what was in that envelope I would've ripped it up!! Why did Lisa let you get off so easily?!!"
"I...I..." stammered Rick.
Rick noticed that as Sammie started sniffling, she also looked like she was going to start hyperventilating. He looked around quickly to see if anyone was looking at them. The place was somewhat crowded and Rick was afraid that she was going to cause a scene. Sammie noticed him looking around, stomped her foot down then took off. Rick quickly picked up his phone and keys and then grabbed Sammie's purse and gave chase after her.
Rick managed to catch up to Sammie and pulled her over to a corner hallway and handed Sammie her purse. She took it, still sniffling and then hit him in the stomach with it. "How could you do this to us?? We were counting on you! You were our last hope to counter against Maistroff! I hate you!!" Sammie started sobbing then ran off down the hall.
Rick clutched his head and let out a frustrated groan, then he turned to the wall and hit it, doing more damage to his hand than the wall. "S--t!" he barked in anger.
He thought about going after Sammie but instead headed towards the hanger and got in his plane, even though he had just come back from a patrol. He told the Flight Officer that he was going on another patrol and, the Flight Officer, not hearing about Rick's refusal of promotion to Admiral, gave Rick permission to take off without going through any procedures or permissions.

* * * * * * *

"Commander Young, welcome," said Exedore in a cheerful voice as Kim sat down.
"Thank you Ambassador Exedore. I trust that you and Lord Breetai received my message about Admiral Hayes?" asked Kim as she fixed her papers.
"Yes, yes, it is most unfortunate that she cannot be with us for the moment. Please send her our regards and wishes for a speedy recovery," said Exedore, ever the one for politeness and formalities.
"I was hoping that the Admiral would have taken the doctors advice and remained in the infirmary. The wounds she received look quite bad," boomed Breetai, even though he was on the vidscreen, the might of his stature could never be mistaken.
"Well, she is a stubborn one," said Kim with a laugh. "Shall we start with the meeting?? I have my presentation, well, Lisa's presentation, I mean...Admiral Hayes' presentation, ready to be cued up."
"Proceed," said Exedore calmly.

"That was an excellent presentation Commander Young," praised Exedore.
"Yes, very thorough. I am glad to have this clear idea of what you Micronians envision the SDF-3 to be," concurred Breetai.
"Lord Breetai, Minister Exedore, I believe that what Admiral Hayes has outlined is very feasible, and I hope that we can get started on the designs right away," put in Dr. Lang.
Breetai rubbed his chin, "Yes, yes...I think we can get started on it as soon as tommorrow. I'm sure that will please you Dr. Lang. What of the prototype of the Selden engine? We are ready to test it, we just need the carbon ore from the Bolten system."
"Aha, I was so intrigued by the Commander Young's presentation that it completly slipped my mind, do forgive me gentlemen," said Lang.
"We also have the Teflen prototype ready for inspection. We thought you would be very eager to see that, and isn't that one of the main reasons why you came doctor?" added Breetai sheepishly.
"Why yes of course!" said Lang, looking as if he were a boy in a candy store.
Breetai laughed, "I knew that would make your day doctor. Very well, we shall head over to take a look at it tommorrow if that's convenient for you."
Lang agreed but Kim poked her finger in the air and said, "Begging your pardon sir, that isn't going to be the only trip to the Teflen is it? I know that Lisa was looking forward to seeing it as well, but I don't think she'll feel well enough to go tommorrow."
Breetai thought for a moment then said, "I think we can arrange for another trip to the Teflen when Admiral Hayes is ready."
"Thank you sir," replied Kim.
"Now, onto the agenda for the upcoming two weeks," announced Exedore.
Everyone at the table looked to the viewscreen and waited for Breetai to speak. Breetai raised an eyebrow, pleased with the fact that he had everyone waiting in suspense, said, "Our original plan was to fold to the Bolten system in the next couple of days, but since Admiral Hayes is still not feeling well, we think that it is best if we hold off until next week, provided that Admiral Hayes has improved by then. Once we do fold to the Bolten system, we will orbit the fourth planet, and begin mining operations that will last some three weeks. I and Doctor Lang have agreed that we will be present for about two out of the three weeks, and thereafter, fold with the Satellite, back to this system which we are now in. We will leave a heavy destroyer and battleship to guard the last week of the mining operation and then transport everyone home when it is completed. For this operation we have decided on a crew of 200 Zentraedi and 50 Micronian. When the Satellite folds, there will be approximately 100 Zentraedi and 30 Micronian remaining to finish up the operation. I have named Commander Ghent to be in charge of Zentraedi operations during the third week and I believe that Admiral Hayes will be able to handle the duties on the Micronian end after Dr Lang has departed. Are there any objections?" Breetai looked around the table and saw that no one objected so he smiled smuggly.

* * * * * * *

Person #1: "Have things been taken care of?"
Person #2: "Yes they have."
Person #1: "Good. Everything is falling into place."
Person #2: "I certainly hope so, or else we're in big trouble."
Person #1: "Don't worry. There's nothing anyone can do to stop us."
Person #2: "You are too arrogant."
Person #1: "I would prefer to use the word... 'confident.'"
Person #2: "I think you underestimate them, especially as a collective."
Person #1: "They are all pretty much scattered now-"
Person #2: "Not quite."
Person #1: "You worry too much."
Person #2: "I would prefer to use the word 'cautious.'"

Person #1: "Caution is not needed, we have nothing to worry about. Hayes and Young will have their hands full soon enough. Leeds is in store for an adventure of her own."

Person #2: "And what about Hunter?"
Person #1: "Hunter is trivial. Without Hayes he cannot do anything for himself."
Person #2: "You should not underestimate him."
Person #1: "You forget...to get to Hunter, you go through Hayes. Take out Hayes and you've also taken out Hunter."
Person #2: "I think you forget. When Hayes is in trouble, Hunter can be surprisingly capable."

Person #1: "Hunter will be of no consequence. Remember this, make sure that your agents don't end up overdosing Hayes, do you hear me?! She's very important, we especially need her incapcitated for at least another week. We need her around until I say we don't need her anymore."

Person #2: "What of the others?"
Person #1: "No one will get in our way, you can count on that."
Person #2: "I wish I could share your optimism."
Person #1: "Do not worry."
Person #2: "What about Porter?"
Person #1: "What about Porter? She is too ditzy. We have nothing to worry about as far as she is concered."
Person #2: "I really believe you vastly underestimate these people. Perhaps we shall have to rethink our plans."

Person #1: "Are you having doubts about this? You know...perhaps I should remind you what could happen if you chicken out. I would have to tell your little secret to everyone...and that would be very bad..."

Person #2: "You..."
Person #1: "I hold the better hand of cards than you do, and you know it."

Person #2: "Everything will go as planned; everyone will be taken care of, and then the way will be clear for us to proceed with
our plan."

Person #1: "I'm glad you agree with me. Good day."

* * * * * * *

Rick hit the punching bag furiously, letting out all his frustration. Reinhardt had informed him that there was one-way communication established with Factory Satellite because their spacefold was going to be delayed for a week because Lisa needed time to recover. Communication was possible, outgoing from the Satellite, but not incoming. Rick had not received any word from Lisa and he was nearly at his wits end. Was she hurt badly? Did she finally give up on him? He didn't know what to think and he couldn't talk to her and it drove him up the wall.
"Whoa, take it easy there boss," said Max as he showed up in front of Rick and held the punching bag still.
Rick looked at Max with a slightly annoyed look then kept on punching the bag as Max held it for him.
"So I take it you haven't heard anything from Lisa huh?" asked Max, although he already knew what the answer was.
Rick huffed then stopped punching the and went to a nearby bench and started bench-pressing.
"You're going to fast, you'll hurt yourself Rick," stated Max as he watched Rick lifting weights too rapidly.
Rick put the bar down with a loud clank and stared up at Max.
"Come on, let's go do something where you can't hurt yourself yet at the same time pound the crap out of. Let's go play a few games of Racquetball," offered Max.
Rick followed his friend to the court and Rick served the ball, hard.
"Hey, take it easy, those things are expensive, and I only brought 4 with me," said Max as he dodged out of the way of a rapidly returning ball.
Rick dumped down his racket and put his hands on his hips and started pacing around.
Max rolled his eyes and tried to suppress a grin. He'd gone through these fits of Rick's before. How many times did he sit down and patiently listen to Rick ramble on about how Minmei didn't care about him and about his troubles with Lisa. Now at least, Minmei was out of the picture.
"Why don't you go out for patrol?" offered Max.
"I already did that. It just made me feel worse," grumbled Rick.
Max shrugged, "Well then, I really don't know what else to tell you Rick. What would make you calm down right now?"
"Lisa," answered Rick without hesitation.
Max smiled, pleased with Rick's answer.
Rick leaned up against the nearest wall and sighed. "I really f----d things up this time Max."
Max cringed slightly and looked at Rick, waiting for him to elaborate.
"Tell me Max; if you had to choose between flying or Miriya, what would you do?" asked Rick.
Max laughed, "Well Rick, you know that's a no-brainer. Miriya of course. I think you have to understand something Rick. A relationship is not all about what you want, it's about what both of you want and what makes you both happy. It's not 'You do for me and I'll do for you' it's, 'What can we do together'."
Rick shook his head, "No. Whatever happens, I'm going to be on the losing end of things."
Max asked, "Are you absolutely sure of that? You shouldn't assume things Rick, that's dangerous."
Rick folded his arms and looked down at the ground. He then looked up at Max sadly and asked, "Would you ever tell Miriya that flying was more important to you than her?"
Max laughed outright, "Oh boy. If I did that she'd break my neck." Max grew more serious and said quietly, "Miriya and Dana mean more to me than anything in this world. There's nothing I wouldn't do for them."
Rick scuffed his foot at the hardwood floor and Max asked, "Alright, just tell me exactly what the problem is and maybe I can help you."
Rick looked up and said, "I don't want to be an Admiral. I'm happy being a pilot. But Lisa doesn't see it that way. She says that I would do more good if I were an Admiral."
"Well, she's right about that," replied Max.
Rick sighed, "That's what everyone has been saying."
"Look, I know it's an overwhelming thought, but you won't do it alone, you'll have a lot of help, from Lisa especially," said Max.
Rick remained quiet and Max continued his questions, "Rick, is that the whole problem? Is this the reason why you nearly broke the punching bag?"
"No," answered Rick flatly.
"Well, then what is it that's bothering you so much?" asked Max.
"After the promotion meeting, Lisa and I had a fight, and I told her that flying was the most important thing in my life," said Rick, not looking at Max.
"Oh..." said Max with a dreadful tone.
"And before she left for the Satellite, she had called me and asked me to come see her, but I missed the call because I was passed out....she must hate my guts now..."
"Oh boy. That's pretty bad. But...we both know Lisa well, and she has never failed to give you another chance, no matter how bad you've been to her," offered Max.
Max's comment didn't make Rick feel any better and Rick started pacing again.
"What if this time, she leaves me for good?" asked Rick desperately.
Max didn't have an immediate answer for him. He never failed to marvel at how much Lisa tolerated from Rick and had thought that she must be a glutton for punishment or something. Max shrugged and finally said, "I don't know Rick. But you shouldnt' worry about that until it actually happens, which I really doubt it will."
"But you can't be sure Max." replied Rick.
"And neither can you be sure she'll leave you," countered Max. "Listen Rick, I know that you probably are feeling very lousy and afraid right now, but don't assume anything until you've actually talked to Lisa."
"How come she hasn't sent me a message yet? She doesn't want to talk to me," said Rick with slumped shoulders.
"She's injured right? Maybe she can't or doesn't feel up to it right now," said Max.
"Yeah but she could have Kim send me a message."
"Maybe she wants to tell you herself. That is possible right?" asked Max.
Rick shook his head slowly.
"Oh hey before I forget, Mir wants you to come over for dinner tonight," said Max with a smile, hoping it would cheer Rick up.
"Dinner? Me? Uh...sure, I guess I can make it," replied Rick.
Max clapped his hands together, "Great, Mir will be happy to hear that."
Rick hesitated for a moment then asked cautiously, "Uh...what is she planning to cook?"
Max chuckled and said, "Don't worry, I have a backup dinner hidden just in case she burns everything again."
The comment brought Rick around a little and he allowed himself a small smile.

* * * * * * *

"Hey Rick, come on in," said Max cheerfully after opening the door.
Miriya walked out of the kitchen with a smile and announced, "We can begin eating whenever you want. Everything is prepared and waiting."
Max motioned for Rick to follow them into the kitchen and they sat down at the small table. Rick looked around and asked, "Claudia and Jean aren't joining us?"
"They took the kids to see a movie," answered Max.
Rick became aware that whatever Miriya had cooked actually smelled pretty good. She was notorious for burning a lot of things that she cooked but since she had started going to cooking school the year prior, she had steadily, albeit slowly, improved.
"Whatcha cook Miriya? It smells great," said Rick with a smile.
Miriya smiled triumphantly then gave Rick a kiss on the cheek.
A confused Rick looked at Max then back at Miriya and asked, "What was that for?"
"That was for telling me my cooking smells great!" said a giddy Miriya.

Max, Miriya, and Rick spent about half an hour eating. During that time they chatted about Dana, Claudia and James, and house restoration and gardening. Rick thought it very interesting that Miriya had taken such an interest in home economics and was planning to tease Max about it every now and then.
For dessert, Miriya served up a chocolate chip cheesecake and Rick was geniuinely impressed.
"Miriya, this cheesecake is the best I ever tasted!" said Rick as he finished the last crumb on his plate.
"It should be, I paid alot of money for it," she replied, which prompted Rick to choke.
After drinking some water to clear his throat Rick said, "I thought you had made it yourself."
Miriya sighed, "Well, I did make a cheesecake, but it didn't turn out the way I had planned. In fact, I believe you can still see some of it on the ceiling."
Rick and Max looked at each other then looked up at the ceiling and saw some blobs of yellow stuck to the ceiling.
"Unfortunately, I cannot be perfect all the time," said Miriya matter-of-factly.
Max smiled and Rick served himself another piece of cheesecake and didn't say a word.

The group then headed to the living room and Max fixed everyone a drink and took his seat next to Miriya on the couch as Rick sat on the chair opposite them.
"I propose a toast!" said Miriya cheerfully.
Rick looked over at Max, still not quite sure what Miriya was so happy about.
Miriya raised her glass and said, "I'd like to propose a toast to Admiral Rick Hunter! May General Maistroff quiver and cower now! May justice and fairness for everyone including Zentraedi, be done!"
Rick felt a chill go down his spine. Telling everyone else that he wasn't going to take the promotion wasn't really so bad, but to tell Miriya that he wasn't going to accept the promotion was something very scary. Rick felt a little bit angry at Max for not telling Miriya, but he supposed that he couldn't blame Max.
Rick looked nervously at Max then at Miriya.
"Is something wrong Rick?" asked Miriya, realizing that Rick wasn't happy about something.
"I...I...uh, guess Max didn't tell you...I'm not accepting my promotion. I prefer to remain a pilot," said Rick nervously, then waited for Miriya's reaction.
Max and Rick could see that Miriya was ready to blow her top and Rick loooked for an escape route.
"WHEN DONKEY'S FLY!!!" Miriya shouted.
Max turned around and ran into a nearby room and burst out laughing. Rick stared at Miriya and had no idea what to do next.
Miriya pushed Rick and he fell backwards with his chair. "What the hell do you mean you're not taking your promotion?!!"
Rick cowered. He felt more scared now than when Lisa was crazy on Oidua. Miriya was strong and still had the aggressive Quadrano streak in her and could do more bodily damage to Rick.
"I...I...I mean, you wouldn't take the promotion if you were me right? You'd want to keep flying too," reasoned Rick.
"Like hell!!" retorted Miriya. "If I had the chance to help my fellow soldiers, my fellow Zentraedi, I wouldn't hesitate for one minute!"
Rick looked at her for a moment then got up to courage to ask, "You...you would give up flying for that?"
"Are you f----n' stupid?!! Of course I would, only a selfish idiot would think of themselves and pass up this chance!" exclaimed Miriya.
Max was listening through the door and had to chuckle at Miriya's comment. He was going to stay where he was and let Miriya try and talk some sense into Rick.
Miriya crouched down and put her face right in front of Rick's and said more calmly, though Rick could hear the anger bubbling underneath, "I was counting on you. Not just for my sake, not just for all helpless Zentraedi's sake, but for Dana's sake as well. I was hoping that once you were part of the high command, you could get things done. You could make things more fair for the Zentraedi and help take care of their problems, negate Maistroff's sabotage, and make things better for everyone. I don't want to harm anymore Quadrano's. Do you know how much this hurts me?!"
Miriya was bordering on hysterical and Max decided it was time to come out of the room and calm Miriya down. "Miriya, come on. Everyone's already yelled at Rick about this problem. He doesn't need you to punish him too. I think Lisa's leaving is punishment enough for him."
Max looked quickly at Rick and winked, but Rick didn't seem to pick up on Max's cue so Max again, "Rick's really upset about everyone being angry at him, he's distraught, Mir, don't make it worse for him."
Rick finally picked up on his cue and pretended to start to cry and he sobbed, "Lisa left me...what will I do...everyone hates me, I have no friends left..."
Miriya stared at Rick for awhile then got up and said quietly, "I think it's best if you leave for right now Rick, I'm upset."
Rick nodded and Max told Miriya to wait on the couch and then he walked Rick over to the door and before he left Rick said, quickly and quietly, "Thanks Max. I hope I haven't caused any trouble between you and Miriya." Max waved his hand and whispered, "Don't worry about it, now go and hide before she remembers she has to be mad at you."
Rick hurried off the porch and ran down the sidewalk.

* * * * * * *

Kim arrived about an hour late and was relieved to see that Kohl was still waiting for her. He waved to her from one of the booths and she quickly joined him. She picked up the menu and browsed it for a few moments then put it down and called for the waiter to take her order. She looked back at Kohl and noticed that he was smiling at her.
"And what are you grinning about?" asked Kim.
"Nothing. It's just...I'm still a bit surprised that you actually agreed to have dinner with me," said Kohl trying to suppress a grin.
"Yeah well, I had nothing better to do," jabbed Kim.
"Gee thanks alot, belittle me why don't you," teased Kohl.
Kim smirked and Kohl asked her, "So how's Admiral Hayes?"
Kim's salad arrived and she eagerly picked up her fork and started eating,"Well...I spoke to her on the phone around 2pm and she sounded ok, but very tired still. She was still waiting for the nurse to come by and check on her. Hopefully the nurse came soon after that, so that way Lisa could have another nap after the nurse left."
"I hope she'll be alright soon," offered Kohl as he started eating his own salad.
Kim, still chomping on a forkful of lettuce, said, "Don't worry about her, she's tough."
Kohl gave her a look and Kim understood it as being doubtful.
Their dinners arrived and the two ate rather quickly and without much conversation. After Kim had finished her Linguini, she ordered a glass of white wine and sipped at it absently.
"Is there something wrong?" asked Kohl.
"No no, nothing wrong. I'm just trying to enjoy a quiet moment," explained Kim.
Kohl looked around, not knowing what to say then remembered and mentioned, "I heard that outgoing communication has been re-established. Were you able to get a message to your friends? "
"Oh, yes, yes, I did. It's too bad we can't receive any incoming, but I think it makes everyone feel a lot better to just have some sort of communication," responded Kim.
Kohl remained quiet and Kim thought to ask, "You must've been glad to send out some messages too huh?"
Kohl shook his head, "Nah. I didn't send any out, don't expect to receive any either, whenever we start receiving."
"Why not?" asked Kim with surprise.
"I don't have anyone to write to nor anyone to write to me," answered Kohl, finishing the last of his Lasagna.
"You can't be serious," said Kim with disbelief.
"I'm a low-key kind of guy I guess," said Kohl with a smile.
"I guess so," replied Kim, still in a bit of a state of surprise.
The check came and Kohl paid for diinner, much to Kim's objection. Kim remembered to order Lisa her spaghetti and was glad she was able to keep Kohl from paying for that as well. As they walked down the hall towards Kim's quarters, Kim could not help but say, "Well, for someone as seemingly friendly as you, it still comes to a bit of a surprise that you aren't making use of the outgoing comms."
Kohl shrugged, "Yeah well, I have a few friends, but they're very good friends and some of them are here on board the Satellite, so it's not like I'm totally alone."
Kim stopped in front of her door and smiled, "Well, that's good, I'm glad."
Kohl hesitated and asked, "Do you think it's alright if we check on Admiral Hayes?"
Kim was starting to get annoyed and also suspicious, of why Kohl wanted to see Lisa so often. She thought for a moment then said, "Kirk, listen, she'll be fine. Trust me. She's not mad at you. I think if she has too many visitors, she'll tire out too soon and I really want her to be completely rested this week. Please try and understand."
Kohl put his hands in his pocket and said with some embarrassment, "You're right, I'm sorry. I just...I don't know... you're right you're right. Please tell her I send her my regards and hope to see her on her feet soon."
"I will, don't worry. And I'm sure that when she's feeling better, we three can go out and have a nice dinner, how's that?" said Kim, trying to strike a middleground with Kohl.
"That sounds great," said Kohl with a smile. He saluted then headed towards his quarters, and Kim was very glad he didn't ask her to lunch the next day.

Kim quickly changed into some comfortable clothes, brushed her teeth again, then picked up the take-out bag and went next door to Lisa's quarters. When Kim entered the living room, she found Lisa sitting on the couch watching television. Kim smiled at the sight, thinking that Lisa was feeling better. Kim walked over to Lisa and announced cheerfully, "Well, it looks like our patient is feeling better today, and what better way to top the day off than with a great dinner. Here's your dinner Lisa, I'll go get you a plate."
Lisa didn't answer and Kim stopped walking and turned around. "Lisa?" Kim walked back over to Lisa and then looked at her and instantly became alarmed. Lisa was sweating profusely and had a spaced-out look on her face. Kim shook Lisa by the shoulders, "Lisa!"
Lisa laughed and slurred, "Kim, you never told me you had a twin."
"What the hell are you talking about?" demanded Kim.
Lisa laughed again and blubbered, "Well there's another one of you standing right next to you. There's also two televisions too although I don't know why I would need two television sets. One for each eye I guess," said Lisa and she started laughing again.
Kim started sniffing to see if she could detect the scent of alcohol anywhere. Lisa watched her with amusement and started sniffing too and asked Kim, "What are we sniffing for? Did someone fart?"
The comment sent Lisa into another fit of laughter and then she stood up, albeit very wobbily, and swayed in her spot and said to Kim, "Look! I'm cured! I don't walk like a little old lady anymore." Lisa staggered around the room and bumped into the chair, "Ooops, excuse me sir," she said.
Kim had had enough and she was now really scared. She walked over to Lisa and grabbed her by the shoulders and yelled, "Dammit, Lisa, what did you drink?!"
Lisa pushed Kim away and growled back, "I didn't drink anything."
"Well you're definitely on something!" said Kim, looking around the room to make sure there was nothing Lisa could use as a weapon. "Did the nurse come by this afternoon?? What did she give you?" asked Kim more calmly.
Lisa chuckled, "I don't know. She didn't give me anything. She forgot her bag, and I was still feeling like s--t so I thought she wouldn't mind if I borrowed a few pills."
Kim shook her head in frustration and asked, "What did you take?"
"How the hell should I know. I just wanted something, anything. Anything to stop this hell that I'm living in..." finished Lisa solemnly.
Kim took a deep breath and thought very carefully. She needed to do two things, first, find out what Lisa took and how much damage it could do. Second, to figure a way to keep her from getting addicted, if she wasn't already.
"Lisa," started Kim calmly, "what was the name of the nurse who came to see you today? I need to call her and tell her that she left her bag here and to come pick it up. Don't worry, I won't tell her what you did."
Kim saw that Lisa looked a bit confused and Kim asked the question again, more slowly. Finally, Lisa managed to remember the name and Kim called the doctor and the nurse. She was all set to give the nurse a tongue-lashing for her carelessness but then thought twice. If she seemed too irrate over the incident, they might get suspicious and ask her why it was such a big deal that Lisa be left alone with medications, as if they couldn't already guess the possible consequences, but nonetheless, Kim decided to take the calmer approach and make it seem like nothing was wrong. Kim also thought to call Kohl, but she really didn't know him that well, and though he seemed quite trustworthy, she wasn't completely convinced that he would go blab the incident to someone. Plus, this might induce Kohl to want to hang around Lisa even more and that was something that Kim didn't want either.
After speaking to the doctor and nurse and checking Lisa's room to try and find out what she took, Kim had concluded that Lisa had taken a mixture of painkillers, and since she was definitely unknoweldgeable of anything medical-related, Kim had absolutely no idea what they were or what all the side-effects were.
Kim looked at Lisa, who had calmed down and was lying on her stomach on the couch, but she still had a stoned look about her and Kim's worrying did not decrease. Kim went over and kneeled down next to the couch and looked at Lisa for awhile before saying, "Lisa, how are you feeling?"
Lisa looked at her but didn't reply, it seemed as if she had no idea what Kim was saying. Kim was about to give up and take Lisa to the infirmary, when she decided to try one more thing. It was a trick she saw done many times in the movies, but since it came from fantasy-world of movies, she didn't really hold out much hope that it would work, nevertheless, it was worth a shot.
Kim stood up, then quickly let herself fall to floor, right in front of Lisa, so she could see her. Then Kim started to sniffle and said, "Lisa...I'm sorry...you're going to have to take care of yourself...I can't help you anymore. I can't help anyone anymore, I've failed everyone...."
Kim looked at Lisa and waited to see if thing sunk in. Kim was hoping that Lisa's current zombie-state was more induced by depression than by the effects of the painkillers, and if that were the case, Kim's little act might be able to pull Lisa back to reality.
Lisa looked at Kim with a scared expression and Kim continued, "I have to go. Admiral Gloval's calling me...back to my duty station, at the bottom of Lake Gloval...I have to go, it's where I belong. I don't belong here...."
"Take me with you! I don't belong here either!" exclaimed Lisa.
Kim wanted to curse but she bit her tongue and thought quickly and said, "No! I have let everyone down...I could not save Gloval. And look at you now, I let you down...I am so ashamed of myself. What kind of friend am I to have sit by and watch one of my best friends become a drug addict..."
Lisa, still cognitively impared by the painkillers asked, "Who are you talking about?!"
"You!!" shouted Kim, and then she pretended to swoon and wailed loudly as her head hit the floor.
"No!! No I'm not!!" exclaimed Lisa.
Kim sat up quickly and said in an overly dramatic voice, "Yes! Yes...y...YOU! You are a drug addict and a drunk!"
Lisa tried to get up off the couch and managed to stumble to the armrest and prop herself up against it, "No..." she said in a whisper.
"Yes! Yes and I've failed to keep you from becoming that, and so I must accept my punishment for my failure..." Kim's voice genuinely cracked. She hadn't intended on calling Lisa a drug addict and a drunk but it came out. And she really didn't think that Lisa was either of those things to any dangerous degree, but as Kim thought about it some more, perhaps the shock of the realization would have a profound impact on Lisa's mind. This was now a mental chess game that Kim needed to maneuver very carefully lest she actually, accidently inflict real psychological damage on Lisa.
Lisa looked around her and kept her arm tight around the armrest. She was feeling dizzy and she had trouble breathing. Kim saw Lisa's physical distress and was about ready to quit her little act when Lisa managed to stagger over to her and say, "Kim, help me, I don't feel well..."
Kim helped Lisa to the couch and hurried to the kitchen to get Lisa a glass of water and a wet cloth for her forehead. After 10 minutes, Lisa seemed to stabalize. She looked at Kim and asked, "What happened? I feel so strange..."
Kim noticed that the glazed look seem to be disappearing from Lisa's eyes and she thought that she probably had caught the end instead of the beginning of Lisa's overmedicated state and was glad of it.
"Lisa...what did you take, can you remember?" askd Kim calmly.
Lisa looked at her for a moment, still a bit confused, then said quietly, "I think...it was Valium..."
Kim proceeded cautiously again and asked, "Why? It wasn't because of your back was it?"
Lisa thought again and slowly shook her head, "No...no I don't think so..."
"Then why Lisa?"
Lisa looked away from Kim and said, "I...I don't know...I don't remember why..."
"Was it because of Rick?" asked Kim, sounding a bit spiteful at the mention of Rick's name.
"I...I...maybe...I can't remember..." said Lisa, genuinely at a loss of memory.
Kim thought it a bit odd that Lisa really didn't remember what made her take the pills. She started brainstorming and wondered if it were actually possible that Maistroff had planted someone onboard the Factory Satellite to cause trouble, very much like how Antell caused trouble for everyone back on Earth. She wondered if the nurse had given Lisa something on purpose, or if any other people had slipped something into Lisa's lunch. Kim started thinking of Lieutenant Kohl, and started thinking up possible scenarios that would be possibly link him to Maistroff or Antell. Of course this all could be coincedence, and if Kim wrongly accused him, it would make her look and feel very bad. She was now ready to treat everyone with suspicion and be very careful of whom she spoke to and hung out with.
"Kim?" asked Lisa.
Kim looked at her and said, "You seem to be looking a bit better, how are you feeling?"
"I feel a bit better now, more clear-headed. What happened, I can't seem to remember anything right now," said a worried Lisa.
"Listen, it's been a long day, why don't we talk about it later. I think you need a nap, it seems like you've been in front of the television for awhile. I'll stay here on the couch tonight, you don't have to worry," said Kim, trying to sound cheerful.
Lisa was able to stand up on her own and asked Kim, "Are you sure you're going to tell me what happened?"
Kim stoodup and saluted and said, "Yes ma'am!"
Lisa nodded knowingly and went to her room. Kim plopped down on the couch and breathed a huge sigh of relief, then she muttered under her breath, "I better get a raise after all this."
"Don't bet on it," teased Lisa from the doorway.
Kim turned around to look at her and smiled then stuck her middle finger at Lisa. Lisa let out a small laugh then shuffled back into her room.

* * * * * * *

Vanessa made her way to the mess hall and waited in line. The food looked pretty good actually. She could picture Kim and Sammie going crazy over the salad bar. After she finished filling up her tray, she looked around to try and find a good place to sit. No one had told her there were any designated tables and since she didn't really know anyone, she was kind of nervous about sitting down. She didn't want to sit all by herself and come across as a loner or snob. She didn't' see the Captain or XO anywhere and so it appeared that she was the highest ranking officer there in the mess hall. She looked around her as she walked away from the checkout counter and was aware of people looking at her. She also noticed that there were hardly any women onboard, something that made her a little bit nervous. At the end of a long row she saw someone waving at her and walked over to find Joe and Zen sitting at the very end table. She breathed a sigh of relief and set her tray down and sat next to Zen.
"How has your first day on a sub been Captain?" asked Joe cheerfully.
"It's been pretty good. I've learned a lot today and met a lot of people," said Vanessa with a smile.
"This is a wonderful crew. Even though some of us have never served with each other, it seems that everyone is getting along pretty well. I'm sure Captain Clemson is pleased," said Zen before eating a spoonful of mashed potatos.
"The Captain and the XO seem to be pretty friendly," said Vanessa.
Zen snorted and said, "Captain Clemson is pretty decent but stay away from Finn if you can. He fancies himself a ladies man."
"I think Captain Leeds already found that out this afternoon," stated Joe rather grudgingly.
"Oh he's started already eh? Well Captain, you should be fine. He's just a talker and likes to seem like he's a stud but he's harmless," explained Zen.
"Well if he ever bothers you Captain, you go ahead and let me know and I'll take care of it," added Joe.
"Thank you Joe," said Vanessa quietly.
"You're very welcome Captain" replied Joe.
"Oh, please, everyone you can just call me Vanessa."
The trio finished their dinners and went over to one of the lounges and played a game of pool. There Vanessa met some of the engine room techs and chatted with them for awhile before finishing up her game of pool and heading back to her tiny quarters.

Vanessa settled into her small bunk and pulled out a palmtop computer that she had brought with her. She unplugged the keyboard from her desktop computer and plugged it into the palmtop, then began writing an email to Sammie and Kim.

Hey girls,

How are you two doing? I'm doing alright I suppose, a tiny bit clausterphobic whenever I'm walking through different areas of the ship, but all in all, it isn't too bad.

You'll never guess what! That guy Joe from the Valentine's Day party is stationed aboard as well! He sits at the station right next to me! And he's already started to flirt with me. He told me that he thought I was a great dancer. I think I'll really enjoy this trip!

Don't worry, I haven't forgotten you girls. I've already scouted around and there's this one guy that I think Sammie would like. Kim, I need to do more scouting around for you. You're too picky girl!

The Captain and XO seem pretty nice, but I heard that the XO is a big ladies man, but the talker type. He told me that I was attractive, right in front of the Captain!

Speaking of Captain, I was in charge of the conn this afternoon. It was a pretty intimidating thought. But I didn't sit in the chair, instead I went around and met all the crewmembers and learned about some of the stations. Kim, you'll be glad to know that they also use the MuSSA system on this ship. Hey, maybe you can get an assignment down here with me sometime. We just need to tell them you have MuSSA experience ;) Don't tell Lisa though, she'll probably come and try and rewire the board like she did on the SDF-1! LOL!

Well, I guess that's all for now. Tommorrow should be pretty much the same routine. I'm told that next week will be when the action is suppose to pick up, so I guess I better enjoy the peace and quiet for now.

Your friend ALWAYS,
Vanessa

Vanessa saved her email message and password protected it then turned off her palmtop. There was no outside communication except for critical messages from base, so she had no idea when she would get her emails to her friends, but she decided to write faithfully everyday as a way of feeling connected with them and the world outside the hull. She turned off the nightlight then turned over on her side and went to sleep.

* * * * * * *

After yet another patrol, Rick found himself back at Lisa's hotel. The events of the day made him wander there by habit. He sat on the couch, wishing so badly that she was there so they could talk about things, so he could have her there to listen to him, like she always had, so he could have her there to just hold onto.
He had always been aware and grateful for the fact that she gave him such strength and comfort through her emotional support, but after they had become a couple, he realized that Lisa also gave him strength through her physical presence. He had always known he needed her to be an ear and give him some of her wise advice but now he also needed to hold her and be close to her. When she hugged him, he could feel how much she cared for him. When she kissed him, he could feel how much she loved him. There was something about the physicalness between them that could not be conveyed with words, and at times they found that they were more in tune with each other by just holding each other than by saying the words. When they looked in each others eyes they could each see the depth of how much each loved the other, something that could not be adequately conveyed with words.
Rick also realized that Lisa had the ability to turn him on without very much effort. Rick had always been attracted to Lisa, as many men were. She had an air of confidence but the distant and somewhat lost look in her eyes gave her a shadow of vulnerability. She had a natural beauty that could've been enhanced even more if she had put on more makeup, but even without the makeup, she drew looks wherever she went. What had always held people's attention was Lisa's eyes. They were a brilliant shade of green that seemed to be able to have the ability to see clear through a person and know exactly what they were thinking. That ability often unnerved people, including Rick. But once he had gotten past his uneasiness, he always had to force himself not to look at her eyes for too long or else he'd find himself hypnotized by them.
The first time Rick had ever spoke to Lisa in person was after he had embarrassed himself at the Lingerie shop. He had saluted and looked straight ahead and first saw her body before looking up at her face. She was dressed conservatively but even those plain clothes could not hide her athletic and shapely figure, and many times, through the course of his dealings with Lisa, he had to force himself not to steal a glance at all her assets.
Lisa now had a stronger physical effect on him than Minmei had, more than Minmei ever had. But Rick actually knew this since the beginning, since they first met, and his constant internal fight to have Lisa pushed over to the sidelines as far as his emotions were concerned was done on purpose to try and deny what was meant to be. How Rick hated himself for missing out on so much for so long.
Rick's cellphone rang and he quickly answered it, "Hello, Rick Hunter here."
"Rick...it's Sammie...I was told you were at Lisa's and Kim's, can I come over?"
"Sure Sammie. Do you need me to pick you up?" asked Rick, glad that Sammie was talking to him.
"No, I'm...I'm in the lobby. I just called to make sure if it was ok," said Sammie, sounding apologetic.
"Go ahead and come on up Sammie," answered Rick quietly.
"Alright, I'll be up in a few minutes," said Sammie.
Rick sighed and wondered what he should do if Sammie tried to talk him into taking the promotion. He wasn't mad at her for her outburst at lunch though, he was afraid that he had upset her and that she wouldn't talk to him. He already had enough people mad at him and if Sammie was willing to make peace with him, he was gladly going to jump at the opportunity to mend fences with one of his friends.
A few minutes later, Sammie knocked on the door. Rick opened it and Sammie walked in quietly. She was carrying a small suitcase. Rick looked at her and gave her a small smile and then Sammie dumped the suitcase on the floor and started crying.
"Sammie what's wrong?" asked an alarmed Rick.
"I...I...I'm sorry Rick," said Sammie, then she started crying again.
Rick thought she looked so pathetic that it was actually sort of funny and cute. He picked up her suitcase with one hand then took her hand with the other and sat her down on the couch and handed her a box of tissues.
Sammie sat on the couch trying to calm down, sniffling and hiccuping every now and then. She blew her nose then asked, "Are you staying here tonight?? Can I stay here too, please??"
Rick stammered, "Uh...well, yea I guess I was going to spend the night here. Sure, you can stay here too if you want, you can take Kim's room."
Sammie blew her nose again then pulled another tissue from the box and dabbed her eyes.
"Is there anything else the matter?? How come you aren't staying at your own place tonight?" asked Rick.
Sammie sniffled then said, "That b---h Antell is going to keep me up all night. Her room is right next to mine and she's on one of her all-night Lynn Kyle and Minmei marathons again I think. She's got the Little White Dragon movie blaring really loud and I can hear her singing some Minmei songs. She's done that before and it drove me and Vanessa nuts!! Also....well, with Vanessa gone...I don't want to stay by myself. I'm not used to staying by myself you know. Please Rick, if you stay here for the rest of the week can I stay here too?? I won't be any trouble and I'll do the dishes and cleanup and do some cooking."
Rick smiled. Sammie reminded him of a little sister who always wanted to tag along.
"I don't mind at all Sammie. But I hope the hotel and Housing Officer won't mind," replied Rick.
Sammie waved her hand, "Oh don't worry about that. Kim had already talked to them before she left. She also got permission for you to stay here too."
Rick nodded, "She knows how to plan ahead huh?"
Sammie managed a smile, "Yeah, she's always been good at that sort of thing."
Rick got up from the couch and announced, "Alright then, let me go take a shower, and then maybe we'll have a little nightcap before turning in, what do ya say?"
Sammie clapped her hands together, "Oooo that sounds great! I am gonna go soak in the tub too, now that you mention it, my bones are aching! Then, whoever finishes first, can make the tea. Did you want tea or coffee?"
Rick thought for a moment, "I think I'll have tea. The girls have a large stash in the cupboard. Give me whatever, I'm not picky about tea. Just don't give me that Orange tea, I don't like it."
Sammie saluted and the two headed to their respective bathrooms.

Rick was already in the kitchen when Sammie came in, towel drying her hair. The tea had just been poured and Rick was about to set the cups down on the table. Rick was wearing a pair of grey sweatpants and had his shirt off. When he saw Sammie he smiled and set the cups down on the table. Sammie had her head bent over as she was towel drying her hair but she kept the towel and hair out of her eyes so she could look at Rick. When she put the towel down, Rick asked, "Hey Sammie, do you think you could help me with my bandages?" Rick held out a small box.
"Sure thing Rick," said Sammie as she took the box and turned Rick around. "Oh my gosh Rick, geez...does it hurt alot?"
"No not really, I sorta even forgot they were there," answered Rick.
Sammie looked over Rick's back, which was covered with numerous nicks, scratches, bruises, and a couple welts. There were about 4 bandages covering the most serious cuts and Sammie had Rick go over to the couch and sit on the armrest.
Sammie dabbed some ointment on the cuts, then fanned them with her hand to let them dry off a bit before patching them up with white bandage patches. She stepped back to look at the result of her nursing skills and said, "I am sure glad I took those first aide classes, I bet Kim is too, she probably has to do this same sort of thing for Lisa for the next several days."
Rick immediately stood up and asked, "What do you mean?"
Sammie covered her mouth, "Ooops...I wasn't suppose to say anything, crap!"
Rick stood right in front of Sammie an stooped down a bit so he could look her in the eyes, "What aren't you suppose to tell me?? Is it about Lisa's latest injuries?? Did Kim tell you what happened??? Come on Sammie, you have to tell me, I have a right to know about anything concerning Lisa."
Sammie bit her lip then said, "I'll tell you only if you promise not to get all upset and try to go running up to the Factory Satellite. It really isn't as bad as you think, actually."
Rick shook his head, indicating to Sammie that he understood her condition, then sat down on the couch and waited for her to tell him the details.
"Well, all Kim said was that this was similar to the time when Lisa got injured when she was flying with Roy. They had a bogey on their tale that they couldn't shake, took a hit right behind the co-pilots seat, and Lisa has some quite nasty shrapnel wounds on her back, sort of like yours but I guess a bit more serious. She made them discharge her the same day but she's spending the rest of the week in her quarters in bed, trying to rest up and recover." Sammie waited and held her breath, wondering what Rick would do.
Rick remained silent for a few moments then stood up and started pacing, running one hand through his hair in a frustrated fashion. "Dammit, I should be up there with her. How the hell did she get caught in a skirmish anyways?? Who's the pilot who she was flying with? Damn!" Rick dropped his hand to his side and sat down and let himself fall back against the couch roughly, causing him to holler a bit, "Ouch! Dammit!" then he stood up again and started to pace.
Sammie jumped up and grabbed his arm and said, "Rick, sit down. You're make me nervous when you pace like that."
"I need to do something Sammie, I need to get in touch with Lisa somehow," said Rick.
"Well pacing isn't going to help anyone. Sit down and drink some tea and try and calm down first," replied Sammie as she went to the table to pickup their teacups.
Sammie sipped her tea and watched Rick but he just sat there staring at his cup.
"Rick, don't worry, Lisa's in good hands. Kim will make sure that she's well taken care of, so will Breetai. Please try and not worry so much," said Sammie tiredly.
Rick sighed loudly, then picked up his cup and took a sip and then said, "You don't understand Sammie. I...I said something really terrible to Lisa...and I did something really terrible to her too...I need to speak to her because I'm afraid if I don't speak to her soon, she might leave me for good this time..."
Sammie's hand started to shake a little bit and Rick could hear her teacup clatter on the saucer, "What...what did you do to her Rick?" asked Sammie in an ominous tone.
Rick looked at Sammie and saw the scared look in her eyes and he said quickly, "No, Sammie, it's not what you think. Wait, let me rephrase this. It's what I didn't do that scares me so much."
Rick saw the look change in Sammie's eyes to one of confusion and he continued, "She asked me to come and see her before she launched...but I didn't. Not because I didn't want to, but because...because I was passed out."
Sammie didn't say a word and she wore an even more confused look.
"You see," explained Rick. "After everyone left the conference room, I blew up at Lisa over the promotion, and I said some things I regret...one of them being, that...that flying was the most important thing in my life...I was just so angry at her at that time that I didn't know what I was saying. And I went to the hanger because I really needed my flying fix, but my plane was being overhauled and I was so upset, I just pulled out a bottle of whiskey and drank and passed out. And Lisa had called me and asked me to come see her, but I didn't because I was passed out. But she doesn't know that. She probably thinks that I hate her and...I can't let her think that...she can't think that I don't love her because I still do, and if she leaves me...I can't... I don't know what I'm going to do...She's probably up there right now, feeling really miserable, injured, and thinking that I hate her...I can't imagine what she must be feeling right now..."
Sammie looked at Rick for a long while then said in a stern tone, "What you said to Lisa was very mean Rick."
"I know," said Rick remorsefully.
"I should be mad at you too, over you not going to see her, but I suppose you did have a good excuse, and no one knew she was leaving so soon," continued Sammie, trying to reason the whole situation out.
"No doubt she left early because of me probably. She wanted to get away from me..." mused Rick.
"Yeah well, I wouldn't blame her," retorted Sammie.
Rick shook his head, ready to accept full responsibility for everything. After several seconds of silence, Rick covered his eyes with one hand and said sullenly, "Why's this happening? Everyone hates me right now. If I accept the promotion I'll feel miserable. If I don't accept the promotion, everyone is dissapointed and angry with me..."
Sammie scooted over closer to the Rick and put her arm around his shoulders and said quietly, "I don't hate you Rick. And I don't think anyone else does either."
"Yes they do," grumbled Rick. "Kim hates me. She slapped me. She heard what I said to Lisa. Vanessa's disappointed in me. Reinhardt's disappointed. Miriya threw me out of her house. Who knows what kind of argument she and Max might get into because of me..."
"I didn't mean it when I said I hate you Rick," said Sammie, her arm still around Rick, trying to reassure him.
Rick said nothing and just sighed.
Sammie sighed too and tried to explain, "I'm sure...I'm sure Kim doesn't hate you either. She just said that because she lost her temper. I'm sorry that she slapped you. She must've been just really angry."
"You don't have to apologize for her Sammie, I deserved it," replied Rick.
Sammie didn't say anything. She in fact did agree that Rick deserved it, but she wouldn't be so mean as to say that to his face. She really did feel sorry for Rick. Rick really was a decent guy. Sure, he made alot of mistakes in the people department sometimes, and maybe he could've been nicer to Lisa, but he never meant to intentionally harm anyone; he just had a bad habit of sticking his foot in his mouth. Sammie could see that Rick was very confused, scared, and tired, so she patted him on the shoulder and said, "The only advice I can tell you is to take one day at a time Rick."
Rick stood up and looked down at Sammie, "Are you disappointed in me Sammie?"
Sammie shrugged, "Yes, I guess I am, I mean, I was hoping you would help turn things around, around here. But...I guess I'll just have to get used to your decision and try and tough things out somehow. Who knows, maybe Maistroff will send Antell away on some secret scheme mission of his. In the meantime, I'll just have to deal with the two of them."
"I'm sorry," apologized Rick.
Sammie nodded then announced, "Well, it's been a long and stressful day, I'm going to go to sleep now. Uhh...could I... could I have a hug? While you have your shirt off and... while your girlfriend isn't here to catch me?"
Rick let out a small laugh and held his arms out for Sammie. They hugged each other and Sammie sighed, "Ahhhh," then she grew serious and said, "Rick, you and I both know Lisa, and if she tried to contact you, then we both know that she doesn't hate you. Right?"
"Yes Sammie, but...I think...maybe it's not so much that I'm worried about her leaving me...it's probably worse if she thinks I'm leaving her. And if she thinks that then...that really terrifies me," said Rick in nearly a whisper.
"I understand Rick. I'm afraid of that too. But, Kim is there, thank goodness, and she won't let anything happen to Lisa. She'll pack Lisa up and send her back down to earth if she thinks that it's critical that you and Lisa talk. We both know that Kim will be able to take care of Lisa, so please try and not worry too much, it will just make you feel worse," explained Sammie.
Sammie started heading back to her room and Rick quickly said, "Sammie...thank you."
Sammie smiled and said, "You don't have to thank me Rick. Goodnight." She waved then disappeared into her room.

============================
Author's Notes: This was one of those 'downtime' chapters. Next chapter, things will be fastforwarded one week (macross time) and a lot of action will take place :)

The Max-Miriya-Rick scene is suppose to be sort of a cross between comedy and drama, as is the Kim-Lisa scene.

Chapter 16 & 17 corrected. I had written that Kim had said that Vanessa had never been injured, but DOH! I forgot, she was injured way back in chapter 1.

*MuSSA stands for Multi-Sensor Signal Analyzer