SUBSPACE

CHATTER

The Official UFPSF
Fifth Fleet Newsletter







A Ready Room Ramblings A View from the Bridge
A Sci-Fact News
A Fifth Fleet Funnies Featuring Real Life
A Sci-Fi & Genre News
A Star Trek: Dauntless Liberty Party

Volume 6 Issue 07
April 2014
2014
A SUBSPACE CHATTER A Page 2 A Vol. 06, #07 A
Ready Room Ramblings
A View from the Bridge

Welcome to another thrilling issue of Subspace
Chatter, the official Fifth Fleet Newsletter.

Congratulations to the following Crew Member on
his promotion, effective 01 April 2014:
Donald Bolton, promoted to Petty Officer 1
st
Class.
Congratulations, Donald!

Weve got some special stuff featured this issue.
This months Fifth Fleet Funnies featuring the
webcomic Real Life by Greg Dean continues the
plotline started last month. Tony Flansaas - the
comic's resident evil overlord, shows his best
friend Greg a working Stargate he bought. Turns
out the movie and TV series Stargate were all just a
misdirection to keep the general public from
learning that Stargates actually exist. So, with
nothing better to do, Greg suggests the two go on
an adventure across the galaxy using Tonys Gate.
What adventures do they have in store? Find out in
this months exciting continuation!

Finally, a little warning about this months Fifth
Fleet adventure story. Most of our Fifth Fleet
adventures are written to be family friendly,
keeping in mind our newsletter (and the on-line
Stories Archive) are aimed at a PG to PG-13
maturity level much like the Star Trek episodes
that have inspired our adventures. But sometimes
our stories take a more decidedly adult turn out of
necessity to tell an exciting story and make a
comment. This months adventure is one of the
latter kind. It touches upon themes of violence
against women in a way required by the plot to
make a statement as many original Star Trek
episodes did about events and cultures on our
own world, transposing them into a science-fiction
setting. As such, this story would definitely earn a
PG-13 rating, perhaps almost touching on R.
Reader discretion is advised.


When the starship Dauntless pays a visit to the
planet Zeta Auriga II to negotiate a trade deal, the
crew is granted shore leave. But a lack of
understanding puts the Captains protg in danger
of her life during a simple Liberty Party by
PJK.

Star Trek Birthdays for the month of April;
01 Grace Lee Whitney (Commander Janice Rand
TOS)
01 Nadine Sacks-Bach (Starbase 719
Commanding Officer)
18 Carrie Jacobs (USS Bellerophon Commanding
Officer)
20 George Takai (Capt Hikaru Sulu TOS)
23 Jeff Sloan (USS Dauntless COB)
29 Kate Mulgrew (Admiral Kathryn Janeway
VOY)
29 Darin Jacobs (USS Bellerophon Chief
Engineer)

Ahead Warp Seven!
~Capn Pete













Subspace Chatter Third Edition
Vol. 06, #07 April 2014
The UFPSF Fifth Fleet Newsletter
2014 Gem Productions

Star Trek and related marks are trademarks of CBS Studios, Inc
A SUBSPACE CHATTER A Page 3 A Vol. 06, #07 A
Sci-Fact News

Making a moon base: Why now is the time
By Gene Grush, from FoxNews.com
21 March 2014


Astronaut and Lunar Module pilot Buzz Aldrin is pictured during the Apollo 11 extravehicular activity on the moon,
in this July 29, 1969 photograph. (Reuters/NASA)

The United States has ended two World Wars,
pioneered a computer revolution and embarked on
the greatest adventure to date by having humans
walk on the moon. I want to see us continue in this
great leadership role. We as a nation and the world
as a whole are better for it.

The next great challenge is a familiar one: The U.S.
must lead the world in allowing humans to break
the bonds that hold us to our Earth.

If we dont rise to this challenge, this century may
be known as the Chinese Century rather than the
second century of America. I have no problem with
other countries being major contributors; I just
want us to lead.

The development of a lunar base could be a
catalyst for lowering our launch cost to space and
accelerating the development of automation and
robotics. And there are probably countless spinoffs
that I did not capture.

If America doesnt step up to the plate, Chinas
ambitions for the moon may establish it as the go-
to nation for space exploration. Many nations of
the world privately say they want the moon to be
the next step in space exploration -- but they cant
get there on their own. They need a technically
savvy and resourceful country to lead.

SpaceXs heavy launch vehicle could be an interim
launch solution to make this vision happen -- and it
happens to be at the right price point. NASA
spends about $7-8 billion on human space flight
today. $2 or 3 billion goes to the International
Space Station. NASAs infrastructure also takes a
large chunk, including deep space communication,
but that leaves around $3 billion for a lunar
initiative. Its on the low side, but good enough.

This money is currently being spent on
infrastructure development that could support a
variety of missions, such as the asteroid mission
that the administration is currently evaluating. It
could also support a lunar initiative if we re-target
the moon.
A SUBSPACE CHATTER A Page 4 A Vol. 06, #07 A

Id love to go to Mars as well, but as a designer of
space vehicles, I know that a lunar initiative is
much more feasible from a cost and time
standpoint. And offshoots could have profound
benefits for more distant forays into space.

Development cost is probably the biggest hurdle.
Congress and the administration must be willing to
ramp up NASAs budget by $1 or $2 billion during
the development years to make this initiative
feasible. Remember that a large chunk of NASAs
annual budget of around $17 billion is to open the
doors and do major scientific exploration. A
marginal increase of $2 billion would have huge
productivity gains.

And NASA would continue to be less than one-
tenth of 1 percent of the total U.S. budget.

With the help of the other nations of the world, a
much more comprehensive lunar initiative could be
planned. But Americas strategic interest should be
in the transportation system.

This doesnt preclude other nations from supplying
redundant transportation vehicles.

I ask the president and Congress to re-visit our
direction and vision for human space missions to
maintain U.S. leadership in space, with all the
education and technological advantages that
entails. This seems especially pertinent in light of
the recent Chinese landing on the moon.

The world of prosperity and freedom shown in
many science fiction stories is just around the
corner. Lets unite the countries of the world in this
initiative. Lets make it a reality.

Gene R. Grush is the former propulsion and power
division chief at NASA Johnson Space Center in
Houston. In an exclusive series of articles for
FoxNews.com, Grush details the steps America can
take to return to the moon. He can be reached at
[email protected]


The Dinosaur Chicken from Hell
by Ashley Yeager, from Science News.org
19 March 2014



A supersized chicken-like reptile with large, sharp
claws and a toothless beak is the latest creature to
earn the distinction of being called a dinosaur.

The creature is named Anzu wyliei, its genus
named after a birdlike demon in Mesopotamian
mythology, and the researchers describing the
dinosaur jokingly refer to it as a chicken from
hell. It is the second-largest birdlike, feathered
dinosaur behind Gigantoraptor and the largest
found in North America. The species probably
roamed what are now the Dakotas 66 million to 68
million years ago with Tyrannosaurus rex and
Triceratops.

A. wyliei was identified from three fossil finds
that, when combined, make a nearly complete
skeleton. Based on calculations from the skeleton,
the birdlike reptile would have been bigger than the
biggest ostrich, measuring 3.5 meters long and
weighing 200 to 300 kilograms, scientists report
March 19 in PLOS ONE.


A SUBSPACE CHATTER A Page 5 A Vol. 06, #07 A
Fifth Fleet Funnies
Previously in Real Life by Greg Dean

While visiting his Tony in his secret subterranean lair, Greg learns that his friend owns an actual functioning
Stargate, and suggests the pair go on an adventure by opening the Gate and exploring what lies beyond

And now the continuation



A SUBSPACE CHATTER A Page 6 A Vol. 06, #07 A


A SUBSPACE CHATTER A Page 7 A Vol. 06, #07 A


A SUBSPACE CHATTER A Page 8 A Vol. 06, #07 A


To Be Continued Next Month

A SUBSPACE CHATTER A Page 9 A Vol. 06, #07 A
Sci-Fi & Genre News

Ghostbusters Reboot Aims for 2015 Production Start; Ivan Reitman Wont Direct
By John Squires, from FearNet.com
17 March 2014



Countless stories and rumors have been circulating
the net in regards to a third installment in the
Ghostbusters franchise for what seems like forever
now, to the point that its become one of those
films that Ive all but assumed is never going to
actually happen. Especially with the recent passing
of Harold Ramis, who played an incredibly integral
part in all things Ghostbusters, it seemed that the
film was destined to never emerge from the fiery
depths of development hell.

Finally putting the rumors to rest, director Ivan
Reitman (above, center) has just opened up about
the status of the project in an interview with
Deadline, sharing both good and bad news in
regards to the future of our whacky ghost-hunting
pals. The good news? The Ghostbusters are soon
going to be returning to the big screen. The bad?
Reitman, who directed both the original film and
its sequel, will not be sitting in the directors chair.

Though Reitman has been one of the leading forces
over the years in the progression of the project,
which is now being described as a reboot, rather
than Ghostbusters 3, he told the website that hes
decided to step down as director, in the wake of the
passing of Ramis, who wrote and starred in both of
the original films. It was such an amazing time in
my life 30 years ago, and I felt that way on the
second film, said Reitman. With Harold no
longer with us I couldnt see it.

Reitman will be staying on as a producer of the
film and is currently helping Sony find a new
director, with production set to begin early 2015, in
New York. He says that a draft of the screenplay
has been written that both he and Sony are happy
about, only revealing that Its a version of
Ghostbusters that has the originals in a very minor
role. Its likely that Bill Murray wont be reprising
his iconic role of Peter Venkman, but only time
will tell, in regards to that.

The search for a new cast of Ghostbusters will
begin after a director is found, and Reitman
promises that fans of the original film will be
happy with the direction being taken with the
reboot. Im not going to say how many
Ghostbusters there will be in the new cast, but we
are determined to retain the spirit of the original
A SUBSPACE CHATTER A Page 10 A Vol. 06, #07 A
film, and I am pleased that all of this seems to have
happened organically, he said.

The bad news is certainly bad but the good news
sounds pretty damn good to me, so I find little to
be upset about here. At long last, a new
Ghostbusters film is FINALLY moving forward,
and that alone is cause for excitement.


Its Official: The Incredibles is Getting a Sequel!
By Lauren Davis, from io9.com
18 March 2014



The Parr family is being called into action once
again. After all, the world never stays saved.

Disney CEO Bob Iger announced at a shareholders
meeting today that Pixar will produce a third Cars
movie (no surprise there) as well as a sequel to The
Incredibleswhich has been confirmed on the
Disney/Pixar Facebook page. Iger says that
Incredibles director Brad Bird is working on the
story, but did not say that he would be directing the
sequel.

Bird has spoken in the past about the challenges of
coming up with an Incredibles story as compelling
as the first, which showed some of the formerly
repressed characters flexing their superhero powers
for the first time.




A SUBSPACE CHATTER A Page 11 A Vol. 06, #07 A
New Star Wars set 30 years after Jedi
By Ryan Pearson, Associated Press
19 March 2014



LOS ANGELES (AP) The new Star Wars has
an official timeline and one confirmed returning
character: robot R2-D2. Director J.J. Abrams will
begin shooting in May on Star Wars: Episode
VII, which is set three decades after 1983s
Return of the Jedi, Disney CEO Bob Iger said
Tuesday. Speaking at the companys annual
shareholders meeting in Portland, Ore., Iger said
the movie would feature some very familiar faces
along with a trio of new, young leads. Abrams has
a penchant for secrecy, and Iger said R2-D2 was
the only official cast member he would
announce. Episode VII is set for release in
December 2015.



A SUBSPACE CHATTER A Page 12 A Vol. 06, #07 A
Authors Note: WARNING! This story touches on adult subject matter and violence.
Reader discretion is advised.


Captains log, stardate 67543.4:
The Dauntless is currently in orbit over the planet Zeta Auriga II, home to a
humanoid civilization at approximately Earths 22
nd
century level of technology and
social progression. While the Aurigites have not yet achieved warp drive, they no
longer fall under the protections of the Prime Directive because the Morain made
contact with this civilization nearly half a century ago and they have been trading
partners with the Morain Alliance for much of that time Zeta Auriga II being the
only known source of hipnuts, a rare delicacy enjoyed by the Morain.
While vague about their description of the Aurigites, one of my Morain counterparts
suggested my crew should be cautious in their interaction with the planets
inhabitants, as they have been known to easily take offense to what most civilized
beings would consider minor gaffes or unintended insults. Im keeping that bit of
advice in mind as I beam down to negotiate for shore leave rights.
Koester, commanding Dauntless, out.


Commander Setton ToLock Arbelo first officer of the Federation starship USS Dauntless stood in
the transporter room as the system activated and three crew members Fleet Captain Peter J. Koester, Lt
Commander Thomas Riker, and 1
st
Lieutenant Jeong-Hwan materialized on the platform.
How did your negotiations go, Skipper? Arbelo asked Captain Koester as the latter stepped down off
the platform.
It took a little bit of back and forth between us and the Aurigites, but we have received permission for
the crew to beam down and enjoy shore leave, Exec, Koester remarked as the other two men on the negotiating
team likewise exited the transporter. In fact, in some ways, they almost seemed too eager to have us visit.
Probably hoping to work out another beneficial trade agreement with us like they have with the
Morain, Riker commented. I think the Aurigites are hoping to trade more than just their hipnuts. They
seemed quite interested in some of our standard equipment. The chief operations officer held up his tricorder
and phaser as examples. ...And when they found out we had exchanged defense technology with the Morain,
one of them asked me off the record if we would be willing to trade those items with them.
Theres no way were giving Federation weaponry to these people, Koester said, leading the small
group out into the corridor. Arbelo noticed the expression on the captains face and his less than enthusiastic
demeanor.
Something wrong, Skipper? the Terran-Vulcan-Efrosian officer asked.
Nothing I can put my finger on, Koester quickly admitted. Maybe its just that certain things about
their culture bother me slightly.
Like what?
Just from looking at them, you would think they were typical examples of 22
nd
century humans on
Earth. But they seem to allow their spiritual beliefs to dominate their everyday lives. For example, their
religion doesnt allow any use of alcohol at all, Koester said as the officers entered a turbolift and started
heading toward the bridge.
I noticed that. I thought perhaps they just never developed it? Riker suggested.
History has shown the ability to ferment alcohol is something just about every civilization discovers
early in their development, from the early Egyptians of Earth to the First Hebitian Civilization on Cardassia
A SUBSPACE CHATTER A Page 13 A Vol. 06, #07 A
Prime. Their prohibition against alcohol was something one of the Morain captains told me about when we
were making inquiries about this planet. The Morain offered the Aurigites alcohol products in trade for the
hipnuts when contact was established between the two cultures decades ago, and the Aurigites almost rioted and
tried to kill the Morain negotiating team in response. Their beliefs apparently prohibit any item that has the
potential to loosen the Aurigites inhibitions. This apparently also includes music and dancing.
No music, no dancing, and no booze. Sounds like its going to be a really fun place to have some
R&R, Skipper, Arbelo remarked dryly.
The Aurigites have a very strict moral code, Koester commented. Maybe Im just being biased, but
they remind me a little too much of the Min for my comfort.
You mean that regressive culture on Capria IV that held you captive for nearly a year and made us all
believe you had been killed by terrorists? Riker asked.
Thats the one, Koester agreed.
As the turbolift reached the bridge and the door opened, the four officers stepped out, continuing their
conversation.
What do you intend to do? Arbelo asked.
Were here to relax a little after some stressful recent missions. Tell the crew to watch their steps
while theyre down there. We dont want any other interstellar incidents. As for me, I may find some time to
relax while were visiting here, but it will be aboard the ship. I have no intention of beaming back down there
again.
As Koester reached the command chair, which was currently occupied by Lt Nick Dillon, Chief Pono
Kyman the starships Chief of the Boat turned around in his seat and looked at the captain.
Whats the word, Skipper? the El-Aurian asked.
Any crew members planning on taking shore leave on Zeta Auriga II need to attend a liberty briefing
before leaving the ship, COB. Otherwise, liberty by department head.
Aye, sir! Kyman said with a grin. It had been several months since the Dauntless last made a stop
anywhere strictly for R&R. I wonder if they have any golf courses on this planet?
Perhaps you can introduce the game to them, COB? Arbelo suggested with a smile. He then looked
at the captain and asked, Any new orders?
Just to set the in-port watch and schedule the first liberty brief, Exec, Koester replied. If you need
me, Ill be down in my quarters.


Space, the Final Frontier...
These are the voyages of the starship Dauntless!

Star Trek: Dauntless

Liberty Party By PJK


Several minutes later, Koester had his uniform jacket off, his feet propped up on the coffee table, and
was sitting on his couch, his right hand holding a padd on which was displayed the latest novel he was reading,
his left hand stroking the fur of the fluffy dog-like creature his daughter had adopted several years earlier and
named Nanook, who was curled up next to him on the cushion with his head resting on Koesters leg. The
captain looked up when the door chime rang.
Come.
A SUBSPACE CHATTER A Page 14 A Vol. 06, #07 A
The doors swished open and Lieutenant (JG) Cassie Koester one of the starships operations officers
and the captains foster daughter, in actuality a centuries-old Lucian who was rescued from her dying planet
by the captain several years earlier stepped in.
Are you heading down to the surface for shore leave, Pe... Captain? she asked.
Not this time, Cassie, Koester said. Something about the Aurigites rubs me the wrong way. I think
Ill have a more pleasant and relaxing time staying aboard the ship. He noticed her immediate look of
disappointment. You know, just because Im not beaming down doesnt mean you cant go.
I was hoping we could go together. Commander Riker has work to do aboard the ship, and I was
thinking that you and I havent done anything fun together in weeks.
Maybe next planet, Koester remarked.
Cassie huffed under her breath, then noticed Nanook lying on the couch under the captains hand, his
tail starting to wag when he noticed her gaze.
What about Nanook? she asked.
Koester looked down at the pet next to him, then asked, You want to go on shore leave with the dog?
Im sure he would love to have a chance to run around in some real sunshine and fresh air, Cassie
remarked. Im sure its been ages since hes seen a REAL tree!
Nanook looked at Koesters face, his tail starting to wag even faster.
You want to go for a walk? the captain asked, prompting an immediate reaction from the animal.
Nanook jumped off the couch and started running around the room, yipping and barking and occasionally
jumping up against Cassie Koesters leg, as if he understood what the captain had said perfectly.
Looks like he wants to go, Cassie said with a smile.
Fine. But on three conditions: One, he stays on his leash I dont want him getting away from you
and running loose on some strange planet. Two, stay away from any native animals who knows how they
may react to one another. And three, I want both of you to beam back up if there is any trouble whatsoever!
Understood, Captain, sir, Cassie responded casually as she retrieved Nanooks leash and knelt down
to clip it on his collar. Come on, Nookie. Lets go have some fun and leave the party pooper up here to read
his book.
I hope you have a nice shore leave too, Koester remarked sarcastically as both Lt(JG) Koester and
Nanook disappeared out into the corridor.

* * * *

After retrieving some necessary items from the quarters she shared with another junior officer,
including a small holographic camera, Lt Koester and Nanook soon arrived in the transporter room. There were
several other crew members waiting to beam down ahead of Koester, and it seemed most of those heading to the
surface for shore leave were going in groups of two to four people. After several groups beamed down, it came
time for Koester and Nanook to step up on the transporter platform.
Just the two of you, Lieutenant? the transporter chief behind the console booth asked, amused that
the seemingly-young woman was going on shore leave with a pet instead of a shipmate.
For the moment, yes, Koester replied, kneeling down in the bright blue pad at the center of the
platform and holding Nanook closely to keep him within the confines of the pads annular confinement beam
limits. Several other crew members stepped up on the pads surrounding the two.
Okay, everyone, listen up, the transport operator announced. Were beaming all the liberty parties
down to a park in the capital city of Zeta Auriga II called Catalian City. These coordinates will also be the
beam-up point when you want to return, so dont get too lost. Im told there are several... tourist attractions
for lack of a better description close to the landing zone. Ive heard the hipnut plantation is a particular
favorite of the local population, and I understand there will be a seminar on hipnut cultivation in the auditorium
of the city hall this evening. For the time being, you should not leave the city. The Aurigite authorities have
promised their full cooperation, so if you have any problems, look for a building with a solid blue square sign
A SUBSPACE CHATTER A Page 15 A Vol. 06, #07 A
on the door. This is their version of the local police, referred to locally as Enforcers. I hope everyone has a
good time. Now stand by. The operator activated the console, and the sound of the transporter increased in
volume. Energizing.
Here we go, Nookie, Koester said, prompting the animals tail to start wagging again just before
everyone dematerialized.
Seconds later, the beams coalesced back into the forms of the individual Dauntless crew. While a
couple went off in one direction as if knowing where they wanted to go, three others pulled out a padd with a
map of the city the starships command structure had compiled and tried to figure out where everything was.
Koester looked around, noticing several of the planets natives around the periphery of the park watching in
amazement as the newest group from the Dauntless materialized, apparently unfamiliar with transporter
technology. She was surprised by how normal they looked their skin very pale and most appearing to be red-
headed and wearing clothes similar to popular fashions she had read about on Earth in the mid-22
nd
century.
She tried waving to one of the natives, who only turned and walked away in the opposite direction, before
tugging on Nanooks leash and leading him toward the other side of the park, where a cluster of trees with
unusually colored purple leaves and a smooth bark was located.
Here you go, Nookie, she said as the dog started sniffing around the roots. Youve discovered a
brand new form of plant life.
Nanook looked up at Lt Koester as if making sure what he was about to do was permitted. Once he
was done, the pair started walking toward one of the nearby streets in the same direction where several of the
others that had beamed down with her had gone. Not really knowing where they were heading, Koester decided
she was simply going to enjoy the opportunity to be off the ship and just see what was around that she might be
able use later to convince the captain to visit the surface again with her. She did not notice at first the looks she
was receiving from several of the native Aurigites she passed as she walked down the street, nor that several of
them made calls on cell phone-like devices after she had passed.

* * * *

Several minutes later, Lt Koester had to admit she was lost. She and Nanook had started their stroll by
window-shopping along the street. She noticed and admired several clothing shops and considered trying to
find out how she could exchange credits or latinum for the local currency to buy a few new outfits she found
attractive. But as the pair continued to walk around the city, one of the things that surprised her about Zeta
Auriga II was the lack of bars and public houses. Every other planet she had visited since joining Starfleet had
places where the locals gathered to talk, laugh, and drink. It appeared the only places where public gatherings
were common or permitted on Zeta Auriga II were buildings that seemed to be houses of worship for the local
religion, of which there were many, and there did not seem to be much talking or laughter coming from any of
them.
Every now and then Koester got the impression she was being discretely followed, and her telepathic
abilities confirmed to her that she was an object of some interest to the locals, though she was unable to discern
why. She began to wonder if it was because she was walking with a pet on a leash, but noticed some natives
out with felinoid pets about twice the size of a domesticated Earth cat. Several times she attempted to start a
friendly conversation, but most of the natives she encountered either stared at her in shock or turned around and
walked away at her approach. Even Nanook was starting to pick up on her nervousness, growling into open
doorways and dark alleys they passed as if expecting to be jumped at any moment.
I have a feeling we should be getting back to the beam-down point, Nookie, Koester remarked after
several minutes without encountering any other members of the starships crew, prompting the animal to look
up at her and yip softly once. I think we need to go back this way...
The pair turned right into an alley that Koester thought would lead back toward the central city park
where the liberty parties first beamed down. Instead, it turned left and right several times before ending in a
dead end.
A SUBSPACE CHATTER A Page 16 A Vol. 06, #07 A
Wrong turn, Nookie, Koester remarked. Lets go back and see if we can re-trace our...
As Koester and Nanook turned back around, they were confronted by half a dozen Aurigites, all male,
and all apparently angry.
What are you doing out without your escort? one of the Aurigites shouted at her.
Im sorry. I wasnt told I needed to have another crew member with me, Koester tried to apologize.
Nookie and I made a wrong turn trying to find the...
The aliens are trying to corrupt us! a second man shouted, pointing at Lt Koester.
She must be punished! stated a third.
I didnt mean to offend anyone, Koester apologized again. This is just a misunderstanding.
Perhaps if you can take me to your local police, we can clear this up?
One of the Aurigite men pulled out a wallet and flashed a piece of silver metal that was inside as he
said, We are representatives of the Catalian City Morals Enforcement. You have been found guilty of
disobedience of the Statutes of Nabilat and must submit to punishment. The men slowly approached Koester,
prompting Nanook to start to growl menacingly.
Im not submitting to anything until I speak with my commanding officer! Lt Koester replied
defiantly, which seemed to anger the Enforcement officers even more.
You will submit! several of the Aurigites said as they suddenly rushed at Koester before she could
activate her combadge. The Starfleet lieutenant dropped Nanooks leash as she tried to defend herself, and the
dog-like creature started baking loudly and incessantly at the attackers. As the six men grabbed at her arms and
legs, trying to immobilize her, she realized they were also grabbing at her uniform literally trying to rip it off
of her. She tried again to reach for her combadge to activate it, but her arm was pulled back and twisted
painfully.
Stop! Help! Somebody, help me! she shouted as she was pushed to the ground. She noticed the
faces of numerous people watching the attack on her from their windows in the buildings surrounding the alley.
One of you, subdue the animal! one of the alleged enforcement officers ordered, and one of the other
Aurigites paused in his attack on Koester to make a grab at the small dog-like creature. As Nanook continued
to bark at the attackers, his barks turned into something more like roars, the hair on his back bristled, and the
small animal began to grow in size. Within seconds Nanook was two and three-quarters meters tall, weighing
in excess of one hundred and forty kilograms and standing upright on his two hind feet, swinging paws that
contained fifteen centimeter long claws on them, resembling a Terran polar bear in size and ferocity. The
Aurigite that had turned to subdue the animal screamed as he was struck and thrown by Nanooks powerful
paw, hitting a wall with a sickening crunch beyond where the attack on Lt Koester was continuing and falling
lifelessly to the ground a puddle of blood forming underneath the body. Nanook then roared once again
before diving toward the melee, swinging back and forth and sending the attacking Aurigites flying. Several
others screamed and backed away, dragging their injured comrades with them. Nanook took a defensive
position on all fours directly over the battered and bleeding Lt Koester, growling and roaring at the cowering
Aurigite men, who were backed into the dead end of the alley, staring back at the immense white-furred
creature before them with panicked expressions.
Though much of her uniform was shredded and tattered, Lt Koester managed to retain her combadge.
Slowly and painfully, she hit the communicator with the palm of her right hand and said, Dauntless... two for
emergency beam up! Now...!
With one final roar, Nanook caused the five conscious Aurigites to back off another step or two just as
he and Lt Koester began to de-materialize in the beam of the Dauntless transporter.

* * * *

In his quarters, Captain Koester had finally put down his book in order to prepare his dinner. He was
in the process of programming his meal into his replicator when a voice sounded in his head, as if heard from a
distance.
A SUBSPACE CHATTER A Page 17 A Vol. 06, #07 A
Peter...! Help... me...!
Cassie? Koester said aloud in shock. It had been quite some time since his protg had telepathically
projected into his head, having finally understood while attending the Academy that it was considered an
invasion of privacy among humans to link telepathically with anyone without their prior permission. He had a
strong sense that Cassie was in pain. Im coming, Cassie! he shouted, rushing out of his quarters toward the
nearest turbolift without even grabbing his uniform jacket. Somehow he knew he had to be in sickbay.

* * * *

The starships COB and Ensign Five were standing in the transporter room, each carrying a bag filled
with various golf clubs and looking forward to introducing the ancient and revered Earth game to the natives of
Zeta Auriga II. They were about to step up onto the transport platform when the emergency beam-up request
was announced.
Whats going on, Greg? Kyman asked the transporter chief within the control booth.
Not sure yet, COB, Chief Blackman replied as he activated the transporter. Seconds later the huge
form of a polar bear-like creature standing in a defensive manner materialized on the center of the platform.
Oh my God! Blackman cried out in shock, as the huge creature growled at everyone standing in the
transporter room. He was about to grab a phaser from the nearby weapons locker when Kyman held up his
hand.
Greg, wait! Thats Nanook, the Skippers um dog.
As Blackman paused and looked back at the transport platform, the creatures growling stopped and its
tale started wagging. Gradually, the creature shrunk until he was once again recognizable as the captains dog-
like pet.
Nanook! Kyman said as he started to move toward the platform. What happened, Boy? Where...?
It was that moment that Kyman, Blackman, and Five noticed the bleeding form of Lt Koester laying on the
platform. Oh no! Greg, get the Lieutenant to sickbay, now! Five, contact the Captain. Tell him hes needed
in sickbay immediately!
Sickbay, this is Transporter Room 1, Blackman said into the intercom. Medical emergency
involving Lieutenant Koester. Im beaming her directly to you!
As Kyman coaxed Nanook off the transport platform, the voice of chief medical officer Dr. Leonard
Kelley responded, Understood, transporter room. Standing by to receive. Seconds later Blackman beamed Lt
Koester to sickbay.

* * * *

Captain Koester was already standing in sickbay when the call from the transporter room came
through. Dr. Kelley looked at the captain, wondering how he knew what was happening before the sickbay
staff did, as he tapped his combadge and said, Understood, transporter room. Standing by to receive.
Seconds later, Lt Koester materialized on the ICU examination bed. Captain Koester was shocked when he saw
his protgs condition; one eye swollen shut, her lips split and bloody, bruises covering her exposed skin, and
the tattered remains of her uniform. Immediately Dr. Kelley and several nurses surrounded the exam bed,
raising the articulation frame over her torso.
My God! What happened to her?? Koester exclaimed, desperate for information.
Captain, I can give you answers later. I need to stabilize the Lieutenants condition first, Kelley said
with an annoyed look in the captains direction.
Koester, understanding the need not to distract the medical team, retreated to the CMOs office and
contacted Lt Koesters department head and Commander Kyler Saya, the starships chief of security. Within
moments, both Lt Commander Riker and the petite and young-looking Bajoran/El-Aurian security chief had
A SUBSPACE CHATTER A Page 18 A Vol. 06, #07 A
arrived in the office with the captain, Riker looking with worry through the transparent partition into the ICU
while Kyler listened to what the captain knew so far.
Chief Kyman said the call for emergency beam-up came unexpectedly as he and Five were preparing
to beam down to the surface. Chief Blackman beamed up Cassie and Nanook, who had transformed into his
bear-like appearance for some reason. Surprised the hell out of everyone in the transporter room when they
thought they had beamed up some dangerous Aurigite creature by accident.
I thought Nanook was a dog, Captain, Kyler remarked. He never gave any indication of being
dangerous when he would interact with my Kainan on the holodeck. Do you think he is responsible for the
attack on Lieutenant Koester for some reason?
No! Koester protested. Nanook is very protective of those he considers members of his pack. He
would never hurt Cassie... not intentionally. And besides, Doctor Kelley has told me her injuries are not
consistent with animal attack. Early indications are she was attacked and almost raped by someone, not
something.
And she was attacked while on the surface of the planet? Riker asked, finally turning and looking at
the captain. Koester nodded. Perhaps we should suspend shore leave until we find out what happened?
I have a call in to the Aurigites security commander. Im hoping to hear from him soon so we can
properly report this attack on Cassie and begin an investigation. Meanwhile, I need you two to take a statement
from her once shes awake and can talk.
Understood, Kyler replied. In the meantime, Ill open a file and put in what we know already.
Dont worry, Captain, Riker said, anger brewing behind his gaze. We know how close you are to
Cassie. Well find out who did this to her and make sure justice is served.

* * * *

Several hours later, Captain Koester was sitting behind his desk in his ready room, dictating a report to
be transmitted to Starfleet via the command base at Starbase 719 when he was contacted by the bridge.
Skipper, I have Major Gunrathi, commander of the Security Forces of Catalian City on comms
requesting to speak to you, said Commander Arbelo.
Good. Ive been trying to reach him for a while now. Thanks, Exec. Pipe it in here, will you? A
moment later he activated his communications system and said, This is Fleet Captain Koester.
Captain Koester, I am Major Gunrathi. Would it be possible for me to come aboard your vessel to
complete my investigation into this afternoons unpleasant incident?
Of course Major. If you would just relay your coordinates, we can beam up aboard as soon as
possible, Koester replied.
Beam aboard... So that is the manner in which your crew member managed her escape. How
interesting, the Aurigites voice said in response before supplying his coordinates. My assistant and I look
forward to meeting you face to face, Captain. Gunrathi, out.
Koester deactivated his comm system, a little more relieved in the fact the Aurigites were taking what
had occurred on their planet seriously and sending one of their top law enforcement officers to interview his
officer about her attack, when a voice sounded in his head again.
Peter, I need you...
Normally the captain would have been slightly irritated by the mental intrusion, but under the
circumstances he understood his protgs need and stood up to leave his ready room, passing through the
bridge on the way to the turbolift, pausing on the way to talk to his first officer.
Monster, we have two senior police officials from Zeta Auriga II beaming aboard to investigate the
attack on Lieutenant Koester. Have them escorted to sickbay as soon as they arrive aboard. Ill be waiting in
sickbay.
A SUBSPACE CHATTER A Page 19 A Vol. 06, #07 A
Arbelo, who had been sitting in his regular seat and looking up some information on the LCARS
screen there, looked up at Koester with a puzzled expression. Is the Lieutenant even awake yet? I heard she
was pretty badly hurt during the assau...
Sickbay to bridge, announced the voice of Dr. Kelley. Please inform the Captain that Lieutenant
Koester is awake and talking.
Arbelo now looked at the captain with an expression of amazement and asked, How did you know?
Koester merely tapped the side of his head and smiled. Arbelo, still not quite sure what Koester was implying,
simply smiled back before activating the intercom on the arm of his chair and responding, The Captain is on
his way, Doctor.
Moments later, Koester arrived in sickbay. In one of the biobeds to one side, Cassie Koester looked
over at the sound of the door swishing open, her expression turning into a crooked smile as she confirmed it was
the captain walking in. Koester admired his CMOs work. Cassies eye was no longer swollen and only
slightly blackened and her split lips had been healed, as were the bruises and cuts that had been on her arms.
How ya feeling, Kiddo? the captain asked as he approached. Cassie held out her hand and Koester
grasped it in his own, squeezing it caringly.
Better than I was a few hours ago, Cassie replied.
What happened down there? Koester asked. The COB told me Nanook had transformed into his
bear-form when the two of you were beamed up. He didnt...?
Oh, no! Nanook saved me! Cassie insisted. If it werent for him, those Aurigites would have torn
every thread of clothing off of me and probably raped me until I was dead!
You were attacked by Aurigites? How many of them? Any idea why they attacked you?
There were about six of them. Said something about disobeying some statute and that I would submit
to them. Then they attacked me without warn...
The lieutenants explanation was interrupted by the arrival of Commander Kyler and two Aurigite
men. Both were pale and red-haired. The older of the two also had a thin beard neatly trimmed into a point
under his chin. The other was younger and oddly had a black eye and scratches on his face.
Fleet Captain Koester, Major Gunrathi of Catalian City Security Enforcement and his assistant,
Lieutenant Chopathi, Kyler introduced.
Major, Im glad you could be here. The Lieutenant just woke up a short time ago and can describe to
you...
Gunrathi appeared to ignore Koester for a moment, stepping past the captain toward the biobed
occupied by Cassie Koester and then looking at his assistant.
Is this the one? he asked.
Yes, Major, Chopathi replied.
Koester was not sure what was going on for a second until Gunrathi stepped closer to Lt Koester and
said, By the authority conferred in me by the people of Catalian City, I bind you by law for disobedience of the
Statutes of Nabilat, assault with requisite intent, and murder with requisite intent. How do you plead?
Cassie looked over at the captain, an expression verging on terror in her eyes.
Whoa! Hold on, Major! Koester said, moving to place himself between the Aurigite and his crew
member. What are you doing? My officer was attacked while on your planet. She didnt attack anyone else!
Shes the victim here!
Gunrathi looked at the captain as he said, Your... officer here... was seen by multiple witnesses out of
doors walking by herself without any male family members to escort her. When she was confronted with her
crime, she refused to submit to punishment, and in fact allowed the animal she had with her to attack my
enforcement officers including Lieutenant Chopathi. Koester looked over at the second Aurigite, now
understanding where the black eye and other injuries had come from. Cassie looked even more fearful as she
realized the other man was one of the ones that at attacked and attempted to rape her. Meanwhile, the major
continued, The attack left one of my enforcement officers dead nearly mutilated beyond recognition and
five others injured to varying degrees. The Lieutenant was the least injured among them.
A SUBSPACE CHATTER A Page 20 A Vol. 06, #07 A
Look, Major, Koester said, trying to reassert his authority. All I know is my officer was attacked
without provocation, and the pet she had with her defended her from her attackers.
Not without provocation, Captain. She broke the law and required punishment, Gunrathi replied.
What law?
Gunrathi appeared annoyed that he had to explain himself, as if what he was about to say should have
been common sense. No female on Auriga is allowed out of doors without escort by an immediate male
family member.
Thats absurd! Dr. Kelley interjected. Koester put up his hand to calm the chief medical officer and
continue his own rant.
Major, even if what you say is true that lone women cannot be out by themselves did you ever
consider telling your visitors that fact?
Captain, please! Gunrathi protested. Ignorance of the law is no excuse. And besides, what
civilized society allows their women out alone? It only invites attack.
To be blunt, Major, EVERY civilized society I have known with few exceptions is enlightened
enough to allow any person citizen, visitor, or other to roam the streets of their cities and towns without fear
of being attacked, whether male or female, Koester replied indignantly. If you cant keep your own people
from attacking women and trying to rape them simply for the fact they are outdoors alone, it sounds to me like
its you who isnt quite civilized.
Gunrathi glared at Koester for several moments before finally seeming to regain control of his
emotional state. He then sidestepped the captain and addressed Lt Koester again as he said, You have not
entered your plea. Do you plea guilty, or must I form an Inquisition Squad?
Dont say a word, Lieutenant! Koester ordered brusquely, afraid anything his officer might say
would further complicate any legal case against her. He then addressed Gunrathi as he said, My officer will
not enter any sort of plea without proper legal representation present. He then turned to Kyler, who was still
standing near the sickbay door, and said, Commander, escort these... gentlemen... back to the transporter room
and see to it they beam back down to the surface safely.
Aye, Captain, Kyler replied. Please follow me.
Gunrathi glared once again at Captain Koester before finally turning on his heel and following the
security chief and his own lieutenant out. Once the door had swished shut, Dr. Kelley could no longer hold
back his pent up emotions.
Unbelievable! They allow their police officers to rape their women if they break some arcane law?!?
What kind of primitive, backward planet is this?
Thats something I intend to find out, Koester replied as he tapped his combadge. Bridge, this is
the Captain.
Go ahead, Skipper, Commander Arbelos voice replied.
Exec, recall all liberty parties immediately. No exceptions! Shore leave is cancelled until further
notice. Until I say otherwise, Zeta Auriga II is off-limits.
There was a pregnant pause over the intercom for a moment until finally Arbelos somewhat-confused
sounding voice replied, Understood, sir. Recalling all liberty parties now. Bridge, out.
Koester felt his hand being grabbed, and looked down to see Cassie grasping it tightly in both her own.
What is going to happen to me now, Peter? she asked, sounding much like the little girl she used to
appear to be as a mental projection in the dreams of visitors to Laxia, the planet from which she had been
rescued eight years earlier.
I dont know, Cassie. But rest assured, I wont let anything more happen to you. He then squeezed
her hand tightly before heading out of sickbay, intent on finding his starships resident JAG officer.

* * * *

A SUBSPACE CHATTER A Page 21 A Vol. 06, #07 A
A short time later, Koester was meeting with Lieutenant Lynna Holtz, the starships legal department
representative. Koester had awakened the JAG officer, who typically worked during the starships normal
daytime hours, generally 0800 to 1800. She agreed to review the language of the shore leave agreement the
captain had signed with the Aurigites to assess if there was any mention of the kind of laws Lt Koester had been
accused of breaking as well as other hidden legal ramifications.
This document is quite well worded legally speaking, Captain, Holtz remarked after having reviewed
the multi-page agreement on a padd display.
The Aurigites told me it was based on their ongoing agreement with the Morain Alliance, since
Morain crews often take shore leave while their ships are being loaded and unloaded with cargo, Koester said.
I figured if the Morain had been visiting here for fifty years without any trouble under this agreement, it would
work for our visit with only minor modifications. I guess I didnt modify it enough?
Next time, you better bring me down with you, Captain, the lieutenant remarked.
Do we have a problem? the captain asked.
We have a problem, Holtz confirmed. Paragraph 12, subsection B: There is a provision for the
extradition of criminal offenders, and the wording is just vague enough that the interpretation you told me
Major Gun...?
Gunrathi, Koester said.
...Major Gunrathi said to you, that ignorance of their laws will not mitigate prosecution if any laws
are broken, can be inferred. If the Aurigites officially request it, we may have no choice other than to turn Lt
Koester over to them, or you will be in violation of several Starfleet regulations regarding contact with non-
aligned species.
So Im supposed to just give Cassie to a bunch of primitive barbarians so they can rape her as
punishment for being outdoors by herself? Lieutenant, thats nuts! There must be something we can do!
From what you describe happened to the Lieutenant, it sounds like the Aurigites practice a form of
proximate jurisprudence where their enforcers act as judge, jury, and figurative executioner if they themselves
witness what they consider to be an offense. I need to know if there is any form of appeal process on Zeta
Auriga II. Our one advantage in that regard is how this agreement was written.
What do you mean? Koester asked.
The language the Aurigites used; it implies they believed the crew of the Dauntless was entirely male,
which is probably why they didnt bother to explain their laws in great depth. If this society is anything like
other male-dominated societies throughout history, they probably have two sets of laws one applying to males
that are mainly common sense: Dont steal, dont kill, etcetera; the other applying to females that may seem
somewhat outlandish to us: Females cannot go outside without a male relative, cannot attend school, cannot
drive, cannot possess property, cannot wear clothing. Perhaps if we point out to them that their assumptions
about us were the root cause of this incident, the Lieutenant can be cleared.
The Morain have been visiting this planet for fifty years, Koester remarked. I cant believe they
never encountered a problem like this or would not mention it to us if they did. I think Im going to get in
contact with the nearest Morain patrol ship and make some inquiries.
It might prove helpful, Holtz said. Meanwhile Ill do some legal research here before we approach
the Aurigites.

* * * *

After meeting with Lt Holtz, Koester returned to his quarters and opened a subspace frequency to the
Morain patrol ship Vavere. Seconds later the furry squirrel-like face of the patrol ships captain appeared on
Koesters monitor.
What can I do for you, Captain Koester? the Morain commander asked in his typical high-pitched
voice.
A SUBSPACE CHATTER A Page 22 A Vol. 06, #07 A
Were currently making a visit at Zeta Auriga II, and weve run into a snag, Captain, Koester
explained. Apparently the Aurigites have several extreme laws applicable to females.
Ahh, yes, the Morain captain responded, blinking his large black eyes and nodding slightly. The
infamous Aurigite Statutes of Nabilat. It does not take much for a female to find herself on the wrong side of
the law, and the punishment more often than not involves some form of corporal punishment most civilized
societies we have interacted with would consider brutal, up to and including being raped to death by more than
a dozen Enforcers if a woman pleads guilty to the charge of adultary.
Barbaric! It would have been nice if something about this was mentioned in the briefings we received
from your government regarding this planet, Koester remarked.
To be honest, Captain Koester, it has been so long since any Morain has had need to worry about an
incident involving our females that whoever prepared your system briefing probably quite literally forgot.
You mean nothing like this has happed to any Morain crews that have visited Zeta Auriga II?
Koester asked in disbelief.
That is correct, Captain.
How do you avoid it? Only send ships with all-male crews when you trade with the Aurigites?
No, our vessels are fully integrated, much as your Federation ships are.
Then, how...?
The Aurigites cannot tell a male Morain from a female. Our fur and body structure hide a multitude
of sins, as far as the Aurigites are concerned, and we simply do not volunteer the information, the Morain
captain explained.
They cant tell the difference?? Koester asked, amazed.
I understand the Federation considers itself an advanced society, Captain Koester, but please, be
honest, the Morain said in his high-pitched voice. Can you?
Koester opened his mouth to answer, but his voice caught in his throat as he realized the squirrel-like
alien was correct. With few exceptions regarding how their fur especially on their tail was cut and styled
he could not remember any major outward difference in the Morain he had met over the years, particularly since
all those serving aboard military vessels of the Morain Alliance all wore the same style non-descript uniforms
that only differed in colors to designate their job specialty.
I see your point, Koester finally admitted.
May I offer you what I hope will be helpful advice, Captain Koester?
Of course.
The Aurigites, like many species, place a strong emphasis on the familial relationship. Females in
their society can do almost anything, as long as an immediate male family member accompanies them.
Im not sure how helpful that advice will be to my Lieutenant, considering her closest relatives exist
in another dimension. But thank you.
I hope you can solve your problem without much pain, Captain. Vavere, out.

* * * *

The next morning, Fleet Captain Koester contacted Major Gunrathi on the planet to request a meeting
between the Major and Lieutenant Koester to try and work out a compromise in the case against her. A short
time later he, Lieutenant Holtz, and Lt(JG) Koester beamed down to Catalian City, where they had been
directed to meet with Major Gunrathi at his Security Headquarters with the objective of facing the charges
against the junior officer. They were confronted by a pair of Enforcers standing guard outside the door, who
demanded to know their intentions.
Im Fleet Captain Koester of the Federation starship USS Dauntless. This is Lieutenant (Junior
Grade) Koester, whom your security force commander has leveled charges against. Koester indicated his
operations officer, then gestured to the JAG officer accompanying them. And this is Lieutenant Holtz,
Lieutenant Koesters legal representative.
A SUBSPACE CHATTER A Page 23 A Vol. 06, #07 A
Does the female called Holtz have an immediate male family member here with her? one of the
Enforcers asked.
No, Holtz responded. Im here to represent...
Females cannot be out in public without an immediate male family member accompanying them, the
Enforcer stated. You must return to your ship immediately.
But...
Immediately, or you will submit to punishment!
Lieutenant, return to the ship, Koester said. Ill see if I can take care of this down here.
Holtz was hesitant at first. She looked at the two Enforcers, who seemed almost ready to attack her
much as they had done with Lt Koester, and seemed to be pleased with the idea. Finally she just nodded at the
captain and tapped her combadge.
Holtz to Dauntless. One to beam up immediately.
Within moments, Holtz dematerialized, to the amazement of the Aurigite Enforcers. The pair then
stepped aside and allowed the captain and lieutenant to enter Security Headquarters.
Peter... I mean, Captain, Cassie corrected herself. Why didnt they tell me I couldnt be here
without a family member? Is it because Im already in trouble?
Koester thought over his junior officers question a moment before something occurred to him.
I think its because you and I share the same surname, Cassie. I think the Aurigites are making the
assumption were actually related. Perhaps we can make use of that misunderstanding? The captain thought
some more about it, and a subtle smile formed on his lips for the first time since Cassies incident had occurred.
The two Starfleet officers were directed to a moderately-sized conference room in the basement of
Security Headquarters. Cassie entered the room first, where she was shocked to find more than a dozen of the
Aurigite Enforcers including at least four of the men who had attacked her the previous day and a shock of
fear coursed down her spine. The men were moving toward Cassie, their intentions clear they meant to attack
her once again until Fleet Captain Koester stepped into the room.
What is this? the captain demanded to know. Whats going on here? Were here to meet with
Major Gunrathi.
And who are you? one of the Enforcers demanded back forcefully.
Fleet Captain Koester, commander of the Dauntless. Im here to legally represent Lieutenant
Koester.
Looks of disappointment appeared on several of the faces.
You are fortunate, one of them said, pointing a finger at Cassie Koester. You have been sentenced
to death by rape for your murder of Enforcer Kilpatrecon. Had your Father not been present, sentence would
have been carried out immediately.
You were right, Cassie projected into the captains head, looking up at him wide-eyed. They believe
you are my father. Her look of shock was replaced by irritation and slight anger as she added, You see? If you
had just beamed down with me on shore leave, this all could have been avoided!
Not now, Lieu... Cassie, Koester said, quickly correcting himself to continue the charade of their
assumed familial relationship. Where is Major...?
Im right here, Captain, Gunrathi said, standing at the rooms doorway. The Aurigite security leader
also seemed disappointed that the lieutenants sentence had not yet been carried out. Lieutenant Koester is
brave, I will admit that. I firmly believed that you would simply leave our planet to avoid her punishment.
I have reviewed our agreement with your government, with the help of my legal officer, Koester
remarked. It appears your government representatives made some dire assumptions such as assuming my
entire crew was male that led to this situation we find ourselves in.
Who on Auriga would have thought men and women could serve aboard military vessels together
without a total breakdown in discipline? And besides, ignorance of the law..., Gunrathi started to say.
A SUBSPACE CHATTER A Page 24 A Vol. 06, #07 A
...Is no excuse, I understand, Koester interrupted. Im trying to rectify that. Would it be possible to
review your laws applying to this situation so we may see how this could have been avoided and prevent such
occurrences in the future? It might also help us convince you of Cassies innocence.
Of course, Captain. Please follow me. Gunrathi gestured down the hall. He then paused by the
door and remarked, Your daughter may wait here if she wishes.
I think the Lieu... I think Cassie will stay with me, Koester remarked, again disappointing the room-
full of Enforcers. The pair was escorted down the hall to a room containing a table and walls covered in book
shelves. Gunrathi looked through the spines of several of the larger books along a top shelf eventually finding
what he was seeking and dropped a book that must have weighted at least fourteen kilograms on the table.
These are the Statutes of Nabilat specifically regarding the responsibilities of females during public
interaction. I hope you find the information you are looking for, Gunrathi said with a tone that indicated he
held little hope for such an outcome before turning and leaving the law library. Cassie again had that shocked,
wide-eyed expression on her face as she looked at the huge book written in an alien language.
How are we going to find any information in there that might help us?!? she cried.
Relax, Lieutenant, Koester implored. This may take some time, but fortunately our shore leave
agreement was written in both Aurigite and Standard. The agreement will act like a Rosetta Stone and allow us
to translate this law book. He pulled a tricorder out of a holster on his waist and started scanning the pages one
by one. It took some time, but eventually the Statues of Nabilat were displayed on the screen of Koesters padd
in Standard and in a searchable format.
Okay... Statues decreeing when women may be out of doors... While under the direct supervision of
an immediate male family member... Such members are defined as father, brother, or husband...
Well theres one solution, Cassie remarked. You can marry me.
I think Michelle would have a problem with that, Koester said, referring to his wife, a fellow
Starfleet officer serving aboard Starbase 719, without even looking up to see the grin on Cassies face.
What else does it say?
Women may also be outside of their homes while under the supervision of a guardian appointed by an
immediate male family member... Hmmm...!
What?
The Aurigites may have little respect for women, but they apparently have a lot of respect for animals
of great strength and purpose.
Great strength and purpose? What does that mean? Cassie asked.
Sounds like, from the descriptions given here, animals you might find working on a farm, like horses
or oxen, or even an elephant. According to the Statutes, there have been several times in past centuries when an
animal of great strength and purpose has been appointed as guardian to Aurigite females in situations when their
male relatives could not be present, as in times of war. Hmmm... This clause hasnt been employed in decades,
maybe centuries, but the Statue has never been changed. We might be able to use this!
How? Cassie questioned. I wasnt exactly out walking my horse yesterday.

* * * *

Several minutes later, after a quick communication with the Dauntless, Captain Koester carried the law
book back to the room where Major Gunrathi and his Enforcers waited. Koester threw the law book onto the
table at one side of the room where it landed with a resounding boom and said, I cite your Statutes of
Nabilat, page 347, paragraph 6, subsection C as Lieutenant Koesters defense against the charges she faces and
demand restitution for the harm perpetrated against her as a consequence of these false charges.
One of the Enforcers was rushing to locate the cited passage in the law book as Gunrathi looked on
skeptically. Eventually, after much page turning, the proper subsection was found.
A SUBSPACE CHATTER A Page 25 A Vol. 06, #07 A
You cant be serious! Gunrathi said to Koester after reading the paragraph in whole. Your daughter
was walking through our city alone with a pet on a leash, not a beast of burden an animal of strength and
purpose who could act as her guardian. And even if it were, it was not a creature of Auriga!
Nowhere in your Statutes does it say the guardian animal MUST be of Auriga! Koester countered,
prepared for this argument.
Captain! This Statute was written centuries ago! And it hasnt been employed within living memory,
since the last Great War over a hundred and fifty years ago!
Likewise, it has never been changed and is still on your law books. The law book you yourself,
Major, directed me to.
Gunrathi exchanged a frustrated look with several of his Enforcers before saying to Captain Koester,
For the sake of argument, Ill accept that this Statute still exists in our laws. I ask again, how does it apply in
your daughters situation, when the animal she was with is nothing more than a pet, not a beast of burden.
Again, you are implying facts not written in your own law, Koester countered. Your Statute states
...an animal of great strength and purpose may be appointed guardian over a female by her immediate male
relative. An animal can have great strength and purpose without being a beast of burden.
From the descriptions given to us by the citizens who witnessed your daughters transgression, the
animal she was accompanied by has neither strength nor purpose, Captain.
Koester smiled slightly as he asked, Would you be willing to make a bet on that, Major?
I dont understand.
Of course you dont. Gambling would probably be considered a loosening of your inhibitions. But
may I demonstrate?
As you wish, Gunrathi replied, another look exchanged with his Enforcers.
Koester tapped his combadge and said, Koester to Dauntless. Please beam Nanook down to my
present location.
On his way, Captain, responded Chief Blackman. Stand by. Seconds later a hum filled the room
and a bright light appeared, out of which the little dog-like animal named Nanook appeared. He noticed
Captain Koester right away and with tail wagging rushed over to him. Koester kneeled down and stroked
his pet as several of the Enforcers laughed.
I submit that I designated Nanook as Cassie Koesters guardian before she beamed down to your
planet yesterday, Koester stated. He is an animal of great strength and purpose.
This, Captain? Gunrathi asked in disbelief. This poofy little creature is your idea of great strength
and purpose?
Major, would you not consider protecting someone to be a purpose? Koester asked.
I would.
And would you agree that anyone person or animal needs to have strength to successfully
accomplish such a purpose?
I do, and it is evident to my eyes that this weak little creature has neither.
Really? Koester said with amusement as he stood back up, Nanook remaining sitting by his feet and
looking at Major Gunrathi with what seemed like curiosity. There is an old saying on my home planet, Major.
Big things sometimes come in small packages. Then, with a smile, he looked down at his pet and said,
Nanook... Protect!
Immediately Nanook stood on all four paws and started to growl, the hair on his back bristling.
Several of the Enforcers including Gunrathi began to laugh at the pet, but two others who had been part of
the original attack on Lt Koester quickly realized what was happening and started moving quietly toward the
door of the room. Nanook darted in front of them, preventing anyones escape from the room, and then slowly
began to grow in size and ferocity. Within seconds he had again taken on the dimensions of a large Earth polar
bear, his sharp claws digging into the concrete floor of the room as his roars of defiance deafened everyone
present. The Enforcers cowered toward the back of the room, each trying to hide behind the body of another, as
Nanook took a single swipe with his clawed paw and sent the heavy table with the law book on it flying across
A SUBSPACE CHATTER A Page 26 A Vol. 06, #07 A
the room where it struck the far wall and splintered into pieces over the heads of the cowering Enforcers. Koester
started to think the Aurigites might trample each other to death in their fright and wondered if that would finally
solve Cassie Koesters problem or merely make it worse. He moved up beside Nanook and started scratching behind
the creatures ear, gently telling him to calm down. With one final roar at the Aurigites, Nanook looked at his master
and was silent.
Well, Major? Koester asked. Does this fit your definition of an animal of great strength and purpose?
Major Gunrathi, who was among those attempting to use his other Enforcers as living shields, looked at the
Starfleet captain with eyes still full of fear, merely nodding in agreement.
Then you agree that Cassie was under legitimate guardianship and therefore not in violation of your laws,
and as such her assault on your Enforcers was justified as self defense? Again the Major nodded. And that all
charges against her are dismissed and she is free to leave without reprisal? For the third time, Gunrathi eyes still
wide with fear nodded. Can I have that in writing, please?

* * * *

Captains log, stardate 67546.9:
With Lieutenant (Junior Grade) Cassie Koesters acquittal in hand, we are returning to
the ship. Once back aboard, I intend to contact Starfleet Command and recommend all
Federation ships steer clear of Zeta Auriga II in the future.
Koester, commanding Dauntless, out.


The transporter hummed to life and Fleet Captain Koester, Lt Koester, and Nanook materialized on the
platform. Nanook was once again back to his normal dog-like appearance and size, his leash back in one of Captain
Koesters hands while his other held that of Lt Koester. As soon as the materialization cycle had completed, Cassie
turned to the captain and enveloped him in a tight hug perhaps a little too tight to be appropriate under normal
circumstances but the captain merely wrote it off to the stress his junior officer had been under for most of the prior
twenty-four hours and just patted her on the back.
Thank you, she whispered in his ear before giving him a kiss on the cheek. I wish I could do something
for you in return.
Koester smiled as he handed the leash to Cassie and said, You can start by returning Nanook to my
quarters. Cassie smiled as she took the leash but her eyes betrayed a slight sadness. Then, as she led the pet toward
the door, the captain called out, Cassie...
Yes? the lieutenant said, turning back to face the captain.
From now on, whenever we stop at some new planet, I want you to make yourself familiar with all the
local laws before you go beaming down on liberty. Cassie looked even sadder as she realized what an undertaking
the captain seemed to be placing on her shoulders. Koester noticed and added, Not just you. Everyone on the crew.
Including me. Who knows what the next planet may hold? We could run across some female dominated society full
of Amazons where men must be walked on leashes like pets or something!
Sounds great! When do we leave? Cassie asked brightly.
Koester gave his junior officer a cynical look, then asked, Arent you on duty in a few minutes, Lieutenant?
The dog isnt going to walk himself back to my quarters.
Aye, sir, Cassie responded with a smile as she headed out the door with Nanook. Come on, Nookie.
Koester watched as the doors swished shut behind the pair, then pondered everything that had happened
over the last day, finally looking toward Chief Blackman in the control booth and with a shrug remarked, Kids!

The End

A SUBSPACE CHATTER A Page 27 A Vol. 06, #07 A
Coming Next Month in Subspace Chatter:


On the bridge of the starship Dauntless, Commander Arbelo was signing a padd confirming the
disposition of the supplies the starship had carried to the Persephone Colony and handed the device back to the
yeoman before settling back in the center seat when the ready room doors opened and Koester stepped out onto
the bridge.
Status, Exec? he asked as he walked toward Arbelo.
Transporter rooms report all supplies have been transferred to the colony as directed, Skipper. Since
were going to be here for a few days, I was just about to authorize shore leave for the off-duty sections.
Belay that, Koester remarked. As soon as possible, we need to break orbit and set course 030 mark
2.
030 mark 2? Arbelo questioned. That puts us on a course out of the AOR.
I know. Weve received new orders. Were to report to Copernicus Station as soon as possible,
Koester explained.
Aye, aye, Arbelo acknowledged, sounding slightly unsure, before turning his attention toward one of
the two men sitting in front of him. Ship status, Mister Riker?
Transporter systems back in stand-by, reported Lt Commander Thomas Riker from ops. Propulsion
systems standing by, capable of all ordered speeds. All departments, all divisions report nominal.
Very well, Mister Riker. Mister Hyland-Faggio, break orbit. Set course 030 mark 2, Arbelo
ordered.
Course plotted and laid in, Commander, the helmsman responded crisply.
Engage, warp factor six once were clear of orbit.
The Dauntless maneuvered out of orbit above Persephone and turned in the direction of deep space in
the general vicinity of where the Beta Quadrant of the galaxy abutted the Delta Quadrant. Moments later the
starships warp nacelles glowed a brilliant blue, and the Dauntless jumped into warp speed.


Be here again next month as the USS Dauntless pays a visit to one of the Federations most distant research
facilities, where scientists delve into mysteries that could preserve the Federation or bring about its end in
Return to Copernicus by PJK.



A SUBSPACE CHATTER A Page 28 A Vol. 06, #07 A







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