Beaming aboard the Valiant, along with Captain Lindenberg, Nevichi, Mij, and Commander Riker, Lieutenant Commander Data stepped off the platform in Transporter Room Two. This ship was physically identical to its counterpart on the Enterprise. Data expected this short trip to be as typical as any mission he'd taken aboard the Enterprise. Yet he knew it was manned by a crew unfamiliar to him and indeed, his altered appearance somehow fit in with the change.

"Riker, Data," the captain said, "welcome aboard the Valiant." He offered his hand for a shake first to Riker and then to Data. When Data accepted it, the captain clasped his other hand over Data's. "If there's anything you need during your stay aboard my ship, don't hesitate to ask."

"Thank you, Captain," the android replied.

Lindenberg chuckled, and letting go of Data's hand, he patted the android once on the back. "I never thought I'd have the only android in Starfleet aboard my ship. Duty calls." He turned and went to the turbolift.

"Is the captain always this lively?" Data asked Nevichi.

"Actually, he is often more so," she replied and walking away, stepped into the other turbolift.

"Our captain is fun," Mij added and joined Nevichi.

"This ought to prove interesting," Riker commented and went to join the others on the turbolift.

"Agreed," Data said, reflecting on the comment for a moment before following them.

"Should we?" Nevichi said in a low voice to the Ferengi. Data obviously had missed the beginning of a conversation. The Valiant's first officer turned toward him. "Would the two of you care to join us in our Ten-Forward?"

"You do not have bridge duty?" Data asked Nevichi.

"I am off duty until our arrival at Cromebia. At which time, Mij and I are to beam down to Brakinz."

"Then we accept your offer," Riker said.

"Computer," Nevichi said, "Deck Ten. You will find the accommodations aboard the Valiant comparable to the Enterprise." She sighed heavily as though there were something she was not telling them.

"Comparable," Mij said. "Not exactly the word I would have chosen. It's true that the two ships are physically identical, but...I would be surprised if there was another ship in your Federation quite like the Valiant."

"You've spent a lot of time on this ship?" Riker questioned, surprised.

Mij glanced at Nevichi, smiling flirtatiously. "In the last couple of weeks--yes."

The turbolift door opened and the foursome stepped out. Data did not know what to expect when they stepped into the Valiant's Ten-Forward, but his curiosity had definitely been aroused. On first glimpse, Data noticed nothing significantly different. People were sitting at tables, eating and drinking, while others were standing, gazing at the stars and chatting. The android was about to turn toward his companions and ask them what difference he was supposed to notice when Mij suddenly rushed toward the bar and pounded his fist several times on the countertop.

"Bartender, I demand some music," the Ferengi said.

Data expected an altercation to break out, but was surprised when the bartender, a stout human male, turned around and laughed jovially at the Ferengi's presence. "Why, Mij, you haven't been in here, since--" The bartender brought his finger to his chin as though in deep concentration. "--yesterday morning! Has it been that long?"

"Hey, what can I say? I've been rather busy, DurMott."

"They've gone through this ritual every day for the past week," Nevichi explained, rolling her eyes. "Some bizarre type of male bonding, I suppose. But I wouldn't love Mij any other way."

Before Riker or Data could comment, the first officer walked away, joining her Ferengi lover at the bar.

"Why don't we sit at that table over there?" Riker suggested to Data, pointing to an empty table in the middle of the lounge.

"That would be quite acceptable," the android readily agreed.

They had a good vantage point of all corners of Ten-Forward from the center table. Data observed the Valiant's off-duty crew, noting the numerous differences from the friends and acquaintances he was used to aboard the Enterprise. Some began dancing to lively music DurMott played at Mij' request, while others were in the midst of a drinking contest.

Data glanced at his companion, who was smirking with obvious amusement. "Certainly, a far cry from what we'd expect on the Enterprise," Riker said.

If Captain Picard ever walked in on a scene such as this, he would be miffed. Most members of his crew respected Picard enough to contain themselves in a reasonable manner. Data could only question the tactics and the attitude of Captain Lindenberg. What kind of man would tolerate this behavior? Data hoped the answer would give him a better insight into humanity.

"Data, Riker," Mij said, waving at them, "join us." The Ferengi was now sitting on the bar counter, and the bartender seemed not to mind. "You can't have fun from over there."

"Shall we?" Riker asked his companion.

"That is entirely up to you, sir," Data responded.

Riker nodded and stood up to walk to the bar.

Curious as to what type of fun Mij had in mind, Data joined them.

"I understand you don't require sustenance," Nevichi stated, looking directly at the android, "but that you are capable of eating and drinking."

"That is correct," Data replied. After a moment of processing the commander's statement, he added, "Do you wish for me to join you in your drinking?"

"How very perceptive you are."

"Bartender," Mij said, raising an arm and ushering toward DurMott, "the android would like a synthale--and what for the commander?"

"Synthale would be just fine," Riker replied.

After DurMott had poured the drinks and brought them over, the Ferengi said, "So what should we drink to?"

"Not to good health," Nevichi groaned. "Such a cliché--what my father always said. How about that the Valiant stays in one piece and that we meet with success on Cromebia."

"If these aliens cooperate," Mij said as they clinked glasses.

"They will if they truly wish admittance into the Federation," Data commented.

"Hear, hear," said Riker.

Each of them brought their glasses to their lips, Mij and Nevichi gulping theirs down before stopping and Data and Riker only drinking about a third.

The entrance door slid open and Captain Lindenberg stepped inside, approaching the trio. "Mij," he said.

Data expected the Ferengi to hastily climb down from the bar counter and stand intimidated by the man in control of this ship. Riker must have thought the same, because he set down his drink and straightened his uniform. Yet Mij grinned, baring his crooked teeth, and exclaimed, "Morgan!"

Aboard the Enterprise Captain Picard only allowed one crew member to call him Jean-Luc, Dr. Crusher, and she had known him for years before they were both assigned to the flagship. Mij was not a Starfleet officer, but Data had still expected him to show the captain more respect.

"I hope you don't mind if I join you for a round."

"Not at all," the Ferengi replied and again waved DurMott over to them.

Data fixed the captain with a puzzled look, which did not go unnoticed. "My dear Mr. Data, we are off duty, and aboard this ship when we are off-duty, we let our hair down. I insist that everyone call me Morgan while off duty."

"Let our hair down, sir?"

"Drop the formalities and have fun."

"But doesn't that hurt on-duty morale?" Riker asked.

"Not at all. In fact, quite the opposite! We have two hours before we arrive at Cromebia. I have an able-bodied bridge crew on duty right now. I'm sure they'll get us there safely."

Internally, Data began a personal log to document his reaction to the Valiant's captain: Captain Picard would have spent this time in his Ready Room. He would have sat at his desk, drinking his Earl Grey tea and contemplating every possible scenario that might greet him once he arrived at Cromebia. He would have felt it necessary to review all the files on the Cromebians to ensure he was aware of every custom or physiological background of their people. In Picard's viewpoint, this is the only way to prepare for a successful interaction with an alien race. . . .

*****

"We would like three papella juices, please," Alexander said as he walked up to the bar of Ten-Forward.

Deanna exchanged glances with the El Aurian behind the counter. She knew immediately that Guinan sensed the tension between her and her mother.

"Perhaps Mrs. Troi would rather try some briska," Guinan suggested. "It's a tea popular among the Cromebians."

Deanna smiled. The substance had had a calming affect on her earlier. Maybe it would help smooth things between her and her mother. "It's sweet, Mother," she said. "You'll like it." "May I change my order?" Alexander asked. With a pleasant smile, Guinan replied, "Three briska teas coming up," and went to fill the order.

*****

For over two hours, Captain Lindenberg (Data had difficulty thinking of him as Morgan) made sure that everyone in the Valiant's Ten-Forward was entertained by drinks, music, dancing, and even singing by the captain. Even Riker had seemed to adapt to Lindenberg's joviality and was enjoying himself. As Data both listened and participated with the goings on around him, he continued to analyze and document his reactions to each crew member. He counted fifty-seven present, knew there were eleven hundred aboard, and wondered what the other off-duty crew members were doing. Certainly they were not all boisterous. Some were probably reading or studying, others dining quietly, perhaps listening to quiet music or playing with their children. Data only wished he had enough time to observe the entire crew.

"Bridge to Captain Lindenberg," someone said over the captain's commbadge.

Data knew that by now they were nearing Cromebia and that meant a conclusion to his observations of the Valiant crew at play--at least until their return trip. It was now time to integrate himself among the Riis and learn what he could about them. The prospect intrigued him.

The captain tapped his commbadge. "Lindenberg here."

"We'll be arriving at Cromebia in approximately six minutes."

"We're on our way. Lindenberg out." He gestured toward Nevichi before turning toward his guests. "Would you care to join us, Commanders?"

"I think that would be prudent," Riker replied as he set his partially-empty glass on the bar counter.

"I would welcome the experience," Data replied and followed the others onto the turbolift.

A minute later when they stepped off the turbolift, Data moved to stand by the tactical officer and watched as the others took their stations. The captain offered Riker the empty chair to his left and the commander eagerly accepted it.

"Half impulse, Ensign Tanner," the captain said with a purely professional tone. "Get within forty thousand kilometers and put her into standard orbit." All signs of the rowdy captain, who only moments ago permitted everyone to address him by his familiar name were now gone and Starfleet training had taken over.

"Aye, sir," the young human replied.

"Lieutenant Briar, open a channel and page Embassador Avech."

"Aye, sir," the young officer at tactical responded. A moment after punching in the sequence, he informed the captain of a response.

"On screen."

An elderly peach-skinned Cromebian wearing a large azure-colored robe appeared. "I'm not surprised to see you," he said. "Does this mean you're still considering our petition?"

"The Federation does not make decisions hastily," Lindenberg replied. "We plan to investigate this matter thoroughly before submitting an official evaluation. We have to determine what effect exposure to your people has had on the Riis. Have your people had further contact with them?"

"Strict actions have been taken to prevent any contact." Avech offered no elaboration and nervously averted his eyes.

"Two of our members, a Commander Riker and Lieutenant Commander Data, have been surgically altered to appear as Riis."

"Surgically?"

Lindenberg smiled and after raising a finger, turned and gestured for Riker to take over.

Riker stood, adjusting his tunic. "Greetings, Avech," he began, "I am Commander William Riker.

Data stepped from around the tactical console to stand directly behind his commanding officer.

The Cromebian leader gasped. "How can this be? "It's not possible!"

"We have been surgically altered to look like a Riis."

"I am Lieutenant Commander Data," the second officer added. "I am an android. Our medical officer altered our appearances so that we may interact with the Riis without alarming them. We wish to evaluate exactly how they have been affected by their exposure to your technology."

We realize that your people are unfamiliar with the concept of surgery," Riker took over again. "I don't fully understand how your people never developed the technology, giving your advancement in other areas. Our people have been using surgical methods for centuries, and we assure you that the alterations on myself and Commander Data are completely safe."

Nevichi leaned toward her captain and said, "Sir, might I suggest that my away team beams down now so we can discuss this matter face to face?" He nodded, and she sprang from her seat and approached the viewscreen. "Embassador Avech, if you wouldn't mind, I would be delighted to explain the concept of surgery to you in great detail. May our medical doctor and I beam down?"

"I would be delighted to welcome you," the Cromebian quickly responded with a boyish grin. "It's time for the evening meal. Why don't you join me for some reshka boruk?"

"Sounds delicious. A young Ferengi scientist would also like to join us as well."

Data could not tell if Nevichi was being polite or if she'd actually tried the dish before. Nonetheless, the first officer had conveniently placed herself into a situation most favorable for conducting an investigation.

"That is acceptable as well."

"Then it's settled," the captain said, clasping his hands. "Commander Nevichi, Dr. Rosenthal and Dr. Mij will be having dinner with you, while Riker and Data interact with the Riis."

"I'll look forward to your arrival," Avech said, looking lasciviously at Nevichi.

After Briar severed the communications link, Lindenberg left him in control. The captain then followed Data, Riker, and Nevichi onto the aft turbolift, and they returned to Transporter Room Two. On route, he summoned his chief medical officer, Dr. Amanda Rosenthal.

"Mr. Dewey," Lindenberg said, addressing the young ensign behind the transporter console, "Nevichi's away team will be beaming down to Brakinz."

Almost as if on cue, Dr. Rosenthal entered at that moment. She was young for a CMO, most likely in her early thirties, with shoulder-length auburn hair and a petite frame.

"Then I need you to scan for a secluded area in the mountains," Lindenberg continued. "We don't want any Riis witnessing Commanders Riker and Data's arrival."

Mij stepped forward proffering a data chip. "Ensign, this contains the necessary program to get past the interference."

"Thank you," Dewey replied, accepting the chip. He tapped in the coordinates for Nevichi's away team before nodding toward the first officer. "Avech is in his office. I'm beaming you directly there."

As Data watched Commander Nevichi, Mij, and Dr. Rosenthal step onto the transporter platform and beam down to Cromebia, he began an internal log.

Commander Data's personal log: I believe my initial reaction to the Valiant crew to be at least partially erroneous. I have now observed members of this crew both off and on duty and have determined that, while some behave boisterously during their leisure time, they are competent officers. Clearly Captain Lindenberg is a different man while on the bridge than he is during off-duty time. His command style is completely different from Captain Picard's, but perhaps every bit as effective.

After accessing Mij' program, Dewey scanned the mountain region outside Brakinz. Dewey told them, "I've located a suitable beam-down site about two miles from the Riis village."

Data and Riker stepped onto the platform.

"Good luck," the captain said.

"Thank you," Riker said. "Hopefully, we won't need it."

The android glanced Riker's way before saying, "Energize."

*****

As Alexander finished keying in the holodeck commands, the computer said, "Enter when ready." He turned toward his father, who only minutes ago had unsuspectingly returned from his duty shift, and said, "I think you're going to like this program."

"I suppose we're going to find ourselves in some nineteenth-century Earth combat," Lwaxana said.

Troi could sense that her mother was not as perturbed by the idea as she was trying to sound. "It's an adventure mother. We're the good guys. The object is to catch the bad guys."

Lwaxana smiled at her daughter. She had insisted on dressing the part before they came to the holodeck and was now wearing a nineteenth-century dress and a frilly hat.

"Who exactly are we supposed to catch?" Worf asked his son.

"Train robbers," Alexander replied, donning his hat. He stepped through the door. The others followed him onto the holodeck train.

As they sat down in facing seats, a man came down the aisle with a basket of fried chicken and cold lemonade. He was a tall, middle-aged man. "Would any of you like some finger food?" he asked, looking directly at Worf.

Worf glanced at his son and replied, "For the boy." He then turned to Deanna and she indicated she was not hungry with a shake of her head.

"I can think of something better I'd like to do with my fingers," Lwaxana said.

"Mother! He's only a hologram."

"I know that. You think I don't know that? Ever since your captain introduced me to Rex the bartender, I've grown rather fond of the pleasures a holographic image can provide."

"Please remember there is a minor present."

Lwaxana glanced at Alexander, who was beaming with amusement.

The vendor handed Alexander a sandwich, and Worf paid him from the nineteenth-century currency he had had replicated earlier. After graciously accepting the payment, the vendor left, appearing oblivious to Lwaxana's forwardness.

A couple of men in sombreros began laughing. "Come back here, and we'll show you what you can do with your fingers!" one of them said.

She raised an eyebrow flirtatiously at him. Turning to look at her daughter, she said, "You can catch train robbers, Deanna. I have something far better in mind." She stood and stepped toward the men.

"Mother!"

"They don't call it menage a Troi for nothing, dear."

As Deanna shook her head in dismay, her mother walked over and sat down between her two admirers. She began delighting in how they fussed over her, each trying to out do the other.

Suddenly, three figures burst in from the next car. They were wearing bandannas over their faces and pointing Winchesters at the passengers.

"Computer, freeze program!" Troi said, alarmed. She turned toward Worf's son. "Alexander, the Cromebians aren't the bad guys!"

The boy bowed his head to avoid making eye contact with Deanna or his father. He had created the now-frozen train robbers in images of Cromebians, one black and the other two peach skinned.

"Alexander," Worf snapped, "how did you learn what the Cromebians look like?"

"I accessed the file."

"That's not possible. Those files have security codes."

"Well, Lieutenant Barclay--"

"Lieutenant Barclay!" Worf grabbed his son by the arm and practically dragged him off the bench. "Computer, exit." The door opened and without saying anything to Deanna or her mother, though Alexander looked pleadingly back at the counselor, they left the holodeck.

"Computer, end program," Troi said, and the train was replaced by the three-dimensional grid of the holodeck.

Her mother walked over to her and said, "Well, I can't deny that Klingons are exciting."

Troi looked at her mother, trying desperately to hold back the laugh and not succeeding. Dammit, she needed to be serious at a time like this!