New Year's Eve Party

"Are you looking forward to the New Year's Eve Party, Captain?" Riker asks me as we the two of us walk to the Bridge.

"Another party?" I reply, "It seems that's all we have lately on this vessel, Number One. If we're not careful, the Admirals will start investigating us and insist we explore space more, like our directive tells us to."



"I don't think that's likely, sir." he laughs, "Starfleet Headquarters has been closed for two weeks while the Admirals go on a round of parties, such as the pre-Christmas, Christmas, Admiral's and now New Year Party. I think they've had the idea of combining it into one whole event."

"You're right." I say, "Let's enjoy ourselves."

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In Ten Forward, we are all gathered, with Guinan serving out drink, telling everybody to form an orderly queue.



"Look!" she shouts, "I'll tell you for the last time. Either wait for your drink or get a substandard one from the replicator machine. It's your choice!"

"Time for a dance, Jean-Luc?" says Beverly's voice behind me, "My dancecard is full, and it has your name on every one." She had been keeping her choice of party outfit from me for some time.



Bev looks ravishing with her red hair in curls, and wearing a very low cut dress that would suitable in an Arthurian setting.

"You look great, Bev." I say, "Let's catch that waltz. It's particularly smoochy."

All of us get on the floor for this, as Vic Fontaine does his Strangers In The Night song. At the end of it, everybody kisses then heads to get some Klingon bloodwine. If anything loosens inhibitions and gets people in the mood it's that.

"Go, Brit!" I hear T'Pol shouting from the edge of the dancefloor as her girlfriend Britney attempts to do a breakdance routine, while wearing a black lace outfit and six inch heels.



I politely applaud as everyone cheers when she finishes. It gets the evening in a real party atmosphere as the troublesome two attempt the drink the Andorian Brandy punchbowl dry between themselves.

After a couple of hours, the time approaches for twelve midnight.

"All right, everybody!" Vic says, "It's nearly time. Get your partners ready and welcome in the New Year....ten, nine, eight, seven, six, five, four, three, two, one....HAPPY NEW YEAR!"

Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
And never brought to mind?
Should auld acquaintance be forgot,
And auld lang syne!


For auld lang syne, my dear,
For auld lang syne.
We'll tak a cup o' kindness yet,
For auld lang syne.


"Happy New Year, Jean-Luc" Bev says with a smile as she kisses me.

"Happy New Year, Bev." I reply.

Here's to another year of alien invasions, conspiracies, arguments, undercover missions and love matches!

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Editor's Note:

May I wish you all a very Happy New Year!