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Una should’ve known this was going to happen. Their whole mission was to seek out new life. Sometimes, one of those new life forms would look familiar.
But did the Cabalods really have to look exactly like Earth horses? Sure, the briefing packet didn’t call them that and the computer pointed out subtle differences — nostril shape, ear length, number of toes — but they were horses to anyone who could see. And did Enterprise absolutely need to be the ship making first contact with them? Una half-suspected this was her punishment from the admiralty.
She'd done her best to prevent Chris from getting involved as soon as she’d read the packet. She’d cited every regulation that could even vaguely support her case that he’d be better off remaining onboard Enterprise. But the moment he saw a picture of a Cabalod, she knew it was futile. She might as well have tried to persuade a river to stop flowing.
And now, the first contact team was setting off for Cabolus. But Una wasn’t going to let them go without seeing them off. She knew her captain too well for that.
“Remember, we’re here because the Cabalods have developed their first warp engine. They might look like Earth equines, but they’re a sapient species and should be treated as such.” She paced between members of the landing party. “Do not make kissing noises at them. Do not click your tongue if you want them to go somewhere.” Una fixed her stern gaze on Chris, who nearly vibrated with anticipation. “Do not, and I repeat, do not attempt to pet them. Do I make myself clear?” Everybody nodded. “Okay. I’ll see you soon.”
They took their places on the transporter pad. Una looked over the team one final time and her eyes narrowed. She marched up to the steps to the platform and held out her hand. “Give it to me.”
Chris gave her a wide-eyed look. “I don't know what you’re talking about.”
Una reached into his pocket and extracted a packet of apple slices. “What’s this?”
“Huh,” Chris said innocently as she patted down the rest of his pockets and pulled out a tin of peppermints. “I forgot I was carrying those around.”
She shook her head and sighed as she climbed off the transporter platform. “Have a good time, captain. Try not to get kicked.” Una looked at Chief Jay. “Energize.”