EPISODE CXC - CHEESING OFF THE POPE




"Sir, the instrumentation checks are negative", Number Two advised.  "We've found nothing out of the ordinary."

"So, you think this is ordinary?", Reed asked hotly, glancing around the darkened bridge.

"No sir", the lieutenant responded, unperturbed, "I'm saying that the systems are operational.  They are simply without power."

"Well then, we need to get the power back, don't we?", the commander suggested evenly.  "Contact Mr. Jeffy."

"That's going to be a problem, sir", Number Two advised.  "We haven't had contact with him for some time.  In fact, we received word that he was last seen in the NCO Club."

"Damn it!!', Reed exclaimed loudly.  "Why doesn't somebody just shoot me?!?"

"We can't", VanTedly answered from behind him, "the weapons locker only opens automatically."

"Shut up, Ensign", Reed muttered, rubbing his chin thoughtfully.  "Lieutenant Scott", he continued, "take VanTedly and find my engineering officer."

"Why me?", Number Two asked with uncharacteristic defiance.

"Because I trust that you will accomplish any task I set before you."

"Well, why VanTedly then?"

"He's irritating me, again", Reed explained simply.

Lt. Scott shrugged, unable to dispute the logic of the commander's choice.  "Aye-aye, sir."

He turned to leave with VanTedly hot on his heels.  Perhaps a little too hot.  "Flat tire", the Ensign proclaimed from behind.