Face Value

Shaka sat at her console, trying to optimise the sensor efficiency; if they were going to find the Lynx, they'd need every percentage point they could get.

*Everything seems suspicious.* Shaka thought. *I've been a little "out of it" since the latest visit from... myself, but nothing's adding up. Why did it take us so long to go out and search for Captain Devore ?*

"How's everything going ?" Toran asked. The break in the silence startled Shaka to the point where she nearly jumped out of her seat.

"Fine!" Shaka exclaimed; her heart was pounding.

"Sensor efficiency is up point-two percent. Keep up the good work."

"Yes, sir." Shaka replied. She bit her lip for two seconds before blurting out, "Why did you order me to take the slipstream drive offline ?"

"I was under the distinct impression you wanted to keep the slipstream drive from being constantly used so you had time to test and perfect it." Toran replied.

"But after three years of use ?" Shaka asked.

"Hey, warp drive wasn't invented in a day." Toran replied.

*Logical enough point.* Shaka thought. "But why didn't you tell me so I could get..."

Toran reached to a nearby table and handed Shaka a PADD.

"...diagnostic readings," Shaka said, completing her thought.

"I expect you to have a couple of revelations by the time we get back." Toran smiled.

"I'll see what I can do, sir," Shaka replied. Reflecting on his tone of voice and heart rate, they seemed consistent with someone who was telling the truth. *But he's an El-Aurian. He's had centuries to practice lying. He had answers. Was he being genuine, or was he very well-rehearsed ?*