Captain’s log, stardate seven-nine-oh-nine-oh point one. The crew has spent the day studying the gormaganders and the gas giant they orbit. Our main objective was to determine how a herd of these normally solitary creatures arrived here. The findings have been interesting, but we are still analysing the data. My trainees’ observations suggest behavioural patterns that may improve our understanding of these enigmatic space-faring creatures.

Grant and Florrick were completely absorbed in their study, working at the rear of the bridge, utilising the ship’s holographic interface. The shimmering blue projection revealed a highly detailed, three-dimensional model of the gormagander herd, with each massive creature drifting serenely through space. 

“This one’s different,” Grant remarked, adjusting the zoom on their scans. Her brows furrowed as she examined the updated biological data. “It’s much younger than the others.”

Florrick recalibrated the sensors, confirming her observation. “You’re right. Based on these readings, it’s only a few weeks old. Practically a newborn.”

The holographic simulation displayed the infant gormagander’s playful antics as it wove through the larger ones. Its movements were quick and full of energy. The infant gormagander repeatedly nudged against the adults, almost testing their reactions. The older gormaganders, though slow-moving, subtly adjusted their courses to accommodate the youngling.

Grant tilted her head in thought. “What if that’s why they’re here? Gormaganders are usually solitary, but maybe they’ve come together to protect the youngest member.”

Florrick pondered the idea with curiosity. “That certainly seems like a completely new behaviour! We could be witnessing the very first documented case of gormagander social structuring.”

Captain Niro, who had been silently observing from the far side of the bridge, stepped forward, hands clasped behind his back. “What have you two found? Anything interesting?”

Both cadets straightened at once, stepping aside slightly to give the captain an unobstructed view of their display.

“We’ve identified a youngling in the herd, sir,” Grant reported. “It’s only a few weeks old and seems to be the focal point of the group’s movements. We think the herd may be acting as a protective unit.”

Niro studied the display, watching the small gormagander’s erratic yet deliberate motions. Its tiny form contrasted against the slow, deliberate movement of the adults. The way the larger gormaganders adjusted to the youngling’s presence seemed almost intentional.

“Fascinating,” Niro murmured. “Have you named it?”

The cadets hesitated before shaking their heads. Naming the youngling had not occurred to them.

“Well then,” Niro continued with a smirk. “Any suggestions?”

Grant hesitated. “I’m not sure we should—”

“Crawler,” Florrick interjected before he could stop himself. “It keeps crawling all over the adults.”

Niro chuckled. “A fitting name. Crawler it is.” He patted Florrick on the shoulder and then glanced at the chronometer. “Let’s wrap this up for tonight. Set the computer to continue monitoring their activity, and you can analyse the data in the morning. Your hypothesis may be right about the herd, but it still does not explain how they got here. We may need more time to study them.”

At that moment, a soft, almost silver shimmer materialised near the captain’s chair. Penelope stood with her usual composed demeanour, offering a pleasant smile. “I am ready to assume command for the evening, sir.”

Niro nodded. “Thank you, Penelope. Amy and Scott have made an interesting discovery,” He gestured towards the hologram of the gormagander herd. “Keep an eye on Crawler for us.”

The holographic officer inclined her head. “I will monitor the young gormagander’s movements closely.”

As the cadets powered down their consoles, Niro turned back to them with a casual air. “So, you two, what are your plans for the evening?”

“Poker night in the mess hall with the others, sir,” Grant replied with a grin. “A few of us are getting together. You’re welcome to join us.”

Niro smiled but shook his head. “I appreciate the offer, but I was considering visiting the holodeck if it’s available.”

Florrick hesitated, suddenly looking nervous. “Uh… well… the holodeck is… um… currently in use.”

Niro raised an eyebrow. “By whom?”

Grant and Florrick exchanged glances before Grant sighed and answered. “Jordan set up a romantic date night for him and Alfie.”

Niro exhaled sharply, shaking his head with an amused chuckle. “Of course he did. Well, I suppose I’ll enjoy a quiet dinner and a good book in my quarters instead.”

Feeling more confident, Florrick made another attempt. “You can still join us, sir. Counsellor Parker has been instructing Ensign Jaceon and the rest of us on how to play.”

Niro gave them a warm but firm smile. “Another time. Enjoy your evening.”

The holodeck doors parted with a soft hiss as Alfie stepped inside, his polished black shoes tapping against the simulated wooden floor. The warm, golden glow of low-hanging lights illuminated the room, casting gentle shadows on the deep red walls. The air was thick with the scent of aged whiskey and fresh cigars—just an illusion, of course, yet the programme’s authenticity was remarkable. Soft jazz music played from a gramophone in the corner, and the hum of quiet conversation filled the space, giving it a lively, intimate atmosphere.

A smirk tugged at the corner of Alfie’s lips as he surveyed the scene. Small, round tables draped in white cloths dotted the floor, their surfaces adorned with flickering candlelight. A polished mahogany bar stretched along one side of the room, gleaming under the dim light. On the stage, a jazz band was frozen in time with their instruments in their hands. A double bass, a piano, a golden saxophone—while a male and female singer stood poised, their voices waiting to fill the room. Elegant patrons, dressed in flapper dresses and tailored suits, were also frozen like the band. They all appeared as they were about to engage in soft laughter and private conversations; the illusion of a bustling speakeasy from Earth’s past was on standby.

And there, standing at the centre of it all, was Jordan. He looked every bit the part—his hair neatly styled, a crisp navy three-piece suit tailored to perfection, and a pocket watch chain glinting in the warm glow. A fedora perched at a jaunty angle atop his head, and he held an unlit cigar in one hand, a smirk playing at his lips. When he caught sight of Alfie, his face lit up with a pleased smile, his eyes twinkling with excitement, just like the lights around the room.

Alfie approached him, hands tucked into the pockets of his high-waisted trousers, his own attire just as era-appropriate. A well-fitted charcoal grey suit accentuated his figure, and the subtle shine of his own pocket square completed the look. “You’ve really outdone yourself,” he murmured, his voice touched with genuine appreciation. “This is incredible.”

Jordan grinned. “Nothing but the best.” He turned slightly, addressing the room. “Computer, run program.”

At his command, the club truly came to life. The jazz band struck up their opening notes, and the singers took their cue. Their voices intertwined in perfect harmony as they launched into ‘I’ve Got A Crush On You,’ the sultry melody filling the space. Around them, holographic patrons swayed in their seats, some rising to the dance floor, their laughter and soft chatter weaving through the air. The bartender polished glasses, waiters moved gracefully between tables, and the illusion became complete.

Alfie glanced at Jordan with amusement. “And what exactly are we supposed to do?”

Jordan chuckled and reached for his hand, leading him toward a secluded table near the stage. “We enjoy the night. Starting with dinner.”

Two well-dressed waiters stepped forward, carefully pulling out their chairs before presenting their menus. Alfie sat down, his eyes flicking to Jordan’s with a quiet warmth. “I appreciate this,” he said sincerely. “I know how much effort you’ve put into making tonight special.”

Jordan waved a hand dismissively, though his smile remained soft. “I know how much you miss being on the Odyssey. I just wanted to do something nice for you. I got to admit, though, I’ve had some help from others.”

Their meals arrived swiftly. Perfectly plated dishes of vintage cuisine, the kind served in speakeasies of old. 

Alfie took a bite, his eyes widening slightly at the flavour. “This is actually incredible,” he admitted, savouring the taste. “Did you program the menu yourself?”

Jordan shrugged casually. “As I said, I had a little help. But I made sure everything would be something you’d love.”

They ate leisurely, savouring the flavours, the ambience, and each other’s company. Jordan kept the conversation light, sharing a few ridiculous anecdotes from his day attempting to scan the gas giant’s upper atmosphere while realising he had forgotten to engage the primary sensor array, making Alfie laugh. The music played on, shifting melodies, and the club never lost its energy. 

Jordan leaned in slightly as their plates were cleared, and the jazz band took on a softer tone. “What do you say to a dance?”

Alfie blinked, a blush creeping up his neck. “A dance? Really Jord?”

Jordan smirked. “Come on, Alf. Live a little. Scott showed me how to do it earlier today, so I can’t let his lesson go to waste.”

After only a moment’s hesitation, Alfie sighed, shaking his head with an affectionate chuckle. “Fine. But you’re not allowed to complain if I step on your foot.”

Jordan laughed, retaking his hand and leading him to the dance floor. As the first notes of ‘You Send Me’ floated through the club, Jordan pulled Alfie into a gentle sway, their movements fitting effortlessly into the slow rhythm. Around them, couples twirled, lost in the moment, while the golden light shimmered against the mirrored walls. The warmth of Jordan’s hand against his own sent a comfortable shiver up Alfie’s spine, and he relaxed into the music.

As they danced, Jordan leaned in slightly, his voice just above a whisper. “See? You’re not stepping on my foot.”

Alfie scoffed softly. “Yet.”

Jordan chuckled, giving his hand a tiny squeeze before gently twirling him, making Alfie laugh despite himself. The song reached its final, lingering notes, and they both slowed to a gentle stop, holding each other’s gaze. The world around them faded just slightly as Alfie gazed up at Jordan, a sweet smile crossing his face before he leaned in and pressed a soft kiss to his lips.

“Thank you,” Alfie murmured as he pulled back, his voice just above a whisper. “For a night to remember.”

Jordan’s grin widened, his fingers still laced with Alfie’s. “Anytime.”