Joint Research Lab N-3, in orbit around Epsilon Theta III
Stardate 7321.3

Commander Richard Harrison stood in his office and stared at the stars. Although they never moved, unlike in a warp-capable starship, he found the practice relaxing and stress-relieving--something he needed, with his job. In addition, there was always the unlikely chance ("13.2 percent," a Vulcan shrink told him once when he was up for his psyche evaluation,) one might detect a Klingon or Romulan ship by the so-called "ghosting effect."

Admiral Lokai had contacted him the day before with the information that Admiral Kirk would be arriving along with the new supplies, and would take command of all security activities aboard the Station.

Harris didn't know whether to be relieved or insulted. He had done the best he could, with his too small staff and out-of-date equipment. At last they were sending help. The resources of a starship--the refitted Enterprise, no less--would be invaluable.

But what exactly would Admiral Kirk be able to accomplish? He had no security training beyond that required to make well-rounded commanded officers and whatever he had picked up when he commanded the Enterprise. No doubt he was of the opinion, like most Starfleet captains, that security crewmembers were only people in red shirts who beamed down with landing parties to serve as targets.

"My guess, Dick, is that he'll just be standing by until something breaks out," his second-in-command, Lieutenant Commander Robyn Hood, had offered. "Then he'll step in and work things out with the Romulans."

He had made a noncommital noise. Her explanation made sense—Kirk did have experience working as a troubleshooter under the late Vice Admiral Ciana, and had experience from numerous encounters with the Romulans when he had commanded the Enterprise. But was the admiral going to stay, watching over Harris's shoulder until something came up? Certainly Starfleet had better assignments for James T. Kirk.

Harris just stared at the stars. Time would tell.