During optimal staffing times, my nearly 400 commissioned officers take their meals in one of two officers' mess decks, which serve nutritious fare at all hours to hungry personnel.

The decks' autochefs can be programmed to cater to the culinary preferences of nearly every known species and culture, so the crew need never want for variety.

The mess deck can also serve as a reception area for dignitaries and a lecture or concert venue for one of the ship's many cultural, literary and recreational events.

Of course, as with all mess decks since time immemorial, the officers' mess is sometimes called upon to function as a medical facility during battles or other emergency situations.

Next: Senior Officer's Quarters