Exeter Compile 24 Dates: November 1, 2020 to November 18, 2020 Mission: Crossover, Day 2 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: Crossover Day: 2 Stardate: 2445.09.22 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (DS9 – Personal Quarters - Ranger – Lieutenant (J.G.) – Arbor –0624) (USS Exeter - Main Engineering - ACEO, Lt. JG Alistair Brightwood and Engineering Officer, Ensign JG Kryx - 0745) (USS Exeter – Turbolift to bridge - Ensign Janice Hammerfield - 0755) (DS9 - Main Prominade Deck -Lieutenant(sg) Victoria Corsica - 0757) (USS Exeter – Ready Room - Ensign Janice Hammerfield - 0800) (USS Exeter – Ready Room - CO, Lt. Commander Trip Williams - 0802) (USS Exeter – Ready Room - Ensign Janice Hammerfield - 0803) (USS Exeter- Personal quarters - CSO Lt JG Erin Cortez - 0803) (DS9- promenade- CTO/3O Lieutenant Ravok & NPC Lt. Taylor Larson- 0811) (USS Exeter – Main Engineering - Ensign Janice Hammerfield - 0820) (USS Exeter - Deck 1 - Ready Room - Lieutenant(sg) Victoria Corsica - 0820) (USS Exeter – Main Engineering – 2O/CEO – Lieutenant Keira Merek – 0823) (USS Exeter - Deck 1 - Ready Room - CO, Lt. Commander Trip Williams - 0823) (USS Exeter – Main Engineering - Ensign Janice Hammerfield - 0824) (USS Exeter – Main Engineering – 2O/CEO – Lieutenant Keira Merek – 0825) (USS Exeter – Main Engineering – Ensign Janice Hammerfield – 0826) (USS Exeter – Main Engineering – 2O/CEO – Lieutenant Keira Merek – 0828) (USS Exeter – Personal Quarters – CFO- Lieutenant (J.G.) – Ire Williams – 0830) (USS Exeter – Main Engineering – Ensign Janice Hammerfield – 0830) (USS Exeter – Main Engineering – 2O/CEO – Lieutenant Keira Merek – 0833) (USS Exeter – Corridor – Sec/Tec – Ens.(sg) Stan More - 08:42 ) (Deep Space 9 - Quarks - SPC Ensign Greta Smith - 0847) (Deep Space 9 - Quarks – CFO – Lieutenant (J.G.) – Ire Williams - 0850) (Deep Space 9 - Quarks – CFO Lieutenant (J.G.) Ire Williams & SPC Ensign Greta Smith - 0853) (USS Exeter - Sickbay - Medical Officer, Ensign JG Katie Jamison and Head Nurse, Ensign SG Violet Drake - 0900) (USS Exeter – Main Engineering - CTO/3O- Lieutenant Ravok-0910) (Uss Exeter - Deck 9 - Nine and Dine - aCOO Ensign Paul Sleeford 09:30) (Deep Space Nine- Promenade ––MCPO – Intelligence Analyst – Rebecca Faust - 0930) (DS9– Crew Quarters section- Larson personal Quarters- CTO/3O- Lieutenant Ravok-0944) (Uss Exeter - deck 7 - Sickbay - aCOO Ensign Paul Sleeford 09:45) (Uss Exeter - deck 7 - Sickbay - MO Ensign Katie Jamison 09:45) (USS Exeter – Ready room – CO, Lt. Commander Trip Williams and Physiotherapist Lt(jg) Cerise Blake - 0953) (USS Exeter – Deck 3, Merek and Shara Quarters – 2O/CEO – Lieutenant Merek -1003) (Deep Space Nine - Promenade - OPS Officer, Ensign SG Santiago Rodriguez Trujillo and Shuttle Maintenance Officer, Ensign SG Ista Tiar - 11:00) (USS Exeter – Main Engineering – Ensign Janice Hammerfield – 1134) (USS Exeter – Security - Ensign Janice Hammerfield - 1200) (USS Exeter – Deck 8 - Security section- NPC sec.tac. Ensign T'kel - 1202) (USS Exeter – Deck 8 - Security section- Ensign Janice Hammerfield - 1203) (USS Exeter – Deck 8 - Security section - NPC Sec/tac. Ensign T'kel -1204) (USS Exeter – Deck 8 - Security section- Ensign Janice Hammerfield – 1205) (USS Exeter – Deck 8 - Security section- NPC Sec/tac Ensign T'kel – 1206) (USS Exeter – deck 5 – Quarters – aCOO Ensign Paul Sleeford 12:30) (Deck 5 - Katies Quarters - aCOO Ensign (sg) Paul Sleeford 12:45) (USS Exeter – deck 5 – Quarters – MO Katie Jamison & aCOO Ensign Paul Sleeford 12:46) (DS9 Promenade - aCOO Ensign (sg) Paul Sleeford 12:55) (USS Exeter – Captain's ready room- CO Lieutenant commander Trip Williams & CTO/3O Lieutenant Ravok-1302) (USS Exeter - Deck 3-Merek/ Shara quarters 2O/CEO Lieutenant Keira Merek& CTO/3O Lieutenant Ravok- 1342) (DS9 - Quarks - CSO Lt JG Erin Cortez & FO Lt(sg) Ailynn Bracken- 1334) (Deep Space Nine - Quark’s- Exeter CO, Lt. Commander Trip Williams and Illuminar FO, Lt. SG, Sienna Williams-Verin -1800) (USS Exeter - Starlight lounge - Dir R&SE Ashlyn Williams and ACFO Ens(sg) Ronnie Winters - 1800) (USS Exeter - Ready Room - Exeter CO, Lt. Commander Trip Williams and Illuminar FO, Lt. SG, Sienna Williams-Verin -1900) (USS Exeter - Deck 11, Main Engineering, Service Corridor Alpha - Exeter CO, Lt. Commander Trip Williams and Illuminar FO, Lt. SG Sienna Williams-Verin - 20:00) (DS9 promenade- aCOO Ensign Paul Sleeford 20:00) (Deep Space Nine - Promenade, Upper Level, Look out - Exeter CO, Lt. Commander Trip Williams and Illuminar CO, Lt. Commander Sekal - 20:20) (Uss Exeter - sickbay - aCOO Ensign Paul Sleeford 20:30) (Gamma Quadrant, Prophet’s Fire Stronghold Planet – Shrine Grounds – 2O/CEO – Lieutenant Keira Merek -2307) (DS9 – Quark's bar- SPC Sec/tac PO3 Sytuk – 2318) (DS9 – Quark's bar- Sec/Tac – Ensign – Arbor – 2324) (DS9 – Quark's bar- Sec/Tac PO3 Sytuk– 2326) (DS9 – Quark's bar- Sec/Tac – Ensign – Arbor – 2328) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Begin Compile >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: Crossover Day: 2 Stardate: 2445.09.22 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (DS9 – Personal Quarters - Ranger – Lieutenant (J.G.) – Arbor –0624) He was back in his quarters again along with the Admiral Aid who was anything but happy. “So, Lieutenant explain to me how a simple recovery mission ended going so badly. You were supposed to extract Alice in one peace not full of phaser holes.” “Sir you did say dead or alive.” “Don`t split hairs with me. You know who she is and how valuable she is. Her dying on Bajor in the hands of those kidnappers would be bad but her dying due to your horrendous excuse of a rescue attempt would be a whole lot worse.” “Sir.” “So run it past me again. From the part where you reached their base.” “Yes Sir.” He paused for a moment making sure he remembered the events properly. “I had concealed the all-terrain vehicle a little way off from where your data and the probes said there was life signs. The base was a small collection of prefabs. It looked like an abandoned way station probably not been used for decades until the kidnappers moved in. They had brought sophisticated equipment with them transporter inhibitors, sensor jammers, they even had two peregrine attach fighters. It took me some time to work out where they had been placed it had been a prefab near the far end of the base. I saw one of the kidnappers bring Alice out to what I assume was the bath room.” He paused for a moment before continuing. “So I waited to see what the patrol pattern was and made my move. Alice was in a bad shape. She was hardly aware of her situation at least her protection as is slightly better condition and once they understood that I was there to rescue them we left and headed back to the vehicle….” “At which point you managed to instigate a running fire fight back to the shuttle injuring Alice and her protection in the process.” “Sir the intel was wrong it was not a few kidnappers it was a whole community.” “I don`t need excuses Lieutenant. That fire fight alerted the authorities who sent in troops to investigate, not to mention what happened when you took off.” “Sir the fighters we almost on us when we reached the shuttle. Sir the Argo is a heavy lift shuttle not a combat fighter, but I was able to lose them in the jungle but as soon as I went orbital I was spotted.” “At which point you called for help...” “Yes Sir like you… “Don`t interrupt me Lieutenant. You spoke her name on a comm channel to get assistance…” “Sir I used her code name and did not mention who she or her protection was.” “Lieutenant you called attention to yourself and then got assistance from a fighter patrol.” “Yes, Sir the Republic`s fighter patrol moved to position and the peregrines back off long enough for me to get Alice and her protection to DS9 infirmary before she and her protection died of their wounds.” She glared at him as he finished. “I have spoken to the Vice-Admiral and he is not happy. You are lucky that you were not shanghaied out of Starfleet but because this never happened you will keep your commission. The Vice-Admiral has decided, and I agree that you have been working on your own for too long. Which has affected your judgment and nearly caused a scandal a well as an international incident.” She handed him a PADD. “You are being reassigned to the USS Exeter as part of their tactical department and reduced in rank to Ensign. Hopefully sometime with actual Starfleet officers you will understand the ramifications of your actions.” She turned and left the room. He could almost see the angry thunder cloud following her. ~The Vice-Admiral not Admiral. Let that slip didn`t you. I wonder which one of the Command staff she works for as there are seventeen Vice-Admirals and one Rear Admiral at the moment~ He looked at the PADD and scanned. It was as he expected he was being field assigned to the USS Exeter. Although he would still keep his Ranger commission with the demotion to Ensign he was in all tense and purposes now a Tactical Officer. He paused for a while letting this new turn of events sink in. He had been told by the Council of Elders when he left home that he was to follow his path where ever it may lead him because the journey was as important as the destination. He decided that this new branch in his life would be an interesting experience and he also had some time to explore the station before reporting on board. (Reply None) (Posted by Robbie) (USS Exeter - Main Engineering - ACEO, Lt. JG Alistair Brightwood and Engineering Officer, Ensign JG Kryx - 0745) While much of the ship was bare, main engineering was a bit more hopping. Lot’s of parts coming in and out, making sure things were restocked, running. The ship had just had her first mission. So there were checks that needed to be run to see how things reacted. Alistair Brightwood, the mustachioed assistant chief engineer was overseeing the crew shift. He was hoping to go and do some sight seeing. But work was work. Most of his family were academics, and he almost became one himself. He grew up in Oxford, a family of professors going all the way back to the 19th century. Some say his ancestors even knew the great C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. Brightwood always had a book in his hand growing up. But while his family always read philosophy or literature, he wanted to read technical manuals and physics. He was destined to be an engineer. Though he was certain in five years time he would probably end up teaching at the academy, for the time being he was enjoying working on a ship. “So Ensign Kryx,” he said approaching the much smaller Engineer that was working beside him. “What are you gonna do once you go off shift?” Kryx grunted and shrugged his shoulders. What did he usually do when off duty. Either spend tim in his quarters or crawling through the jeffries tubes. He was a loner, being uncomfortable around others unless he had to be. “Don’t know. You?” He asked in clipped sentences. “Me, I don’t know, probably go to my room, have a spot of tea. Probably a Black tea, with milk, honey and sugar. Then maybe go check out the shops. See if I can’t find anything to bring back and tinker. Or a model kit or two. I’ve been in a model building craze of late.” Kryx made a sound that could only have been a chuckle. “Let me guess, you’ll probably go to your quarters and lose yourself in a good book, eh?” He shrugged. “No, jeffries tubes is where I go.” “Uggh, the jeffries tubes. I always feel trapped in those. Just a wee bit of claustrophobia.” Kryx looked Alistair up and down and let out what could only be a laugh. “You are large. I am not.” “My most recurring nightmare is going into one and then ballooning so big that I get stuck in there forever. Give me open spaces any day. It’s why I just don’t get why people served in submarines back all those centuries ago. A death tube underwater. No thank you.” “I feel safe in there, much better than in a crowded room” Kyrx said in his curt, short words. “Well, to be fair, two people in a jeffries tube and it becomes crowded,” Alistair said with a laugh. This time a definite chuckle came from Kryx. “Don’t want to know what two were doing.” “So, rumor has it we’re going to Cardassia next. Have you ever been before?” Kryx shook his head. “Have not. Have you? “I’m afraid not, though I’m looking forward to it. If nothing else I’m hoping we can see some of their ships. I’d love to study some of their tech specs.” “Wouldn’t … mind, crawling around them” came Kryx’ curt reply “May I ask a question of a personal nature?” “Yes?” He tipped his head in that quisical manner “Is it hard being the only one of your species on board?” “Sometimes, no friends … really. No one knows … lonely” Kryx let out a sigh. “Well that’s just not true Ensign, that not true at all.” “No ….” pausing to think how to phrase what he was trying to say “ “I’m your friend.” (reply none) (posted by Will) (USS Exeter – Turbolift to bridge - Ensign Janice Hammerfield - 0755) Taking in a deep sigh Janice tugged a bag on her back and case in her hand. At this point she was used to living out of a backpack. Thinking deeply for a moment she thought that maybe one day she could find somewhere a little more permanent – a nice kitchen – small open fire – picking out some furniture – the simple things. “Things are never simple” she murmured a bit bringing herself back to reality as the whoosh of the doors sprung open. Looking up over the bridge she didn’t notice the Commander on deck. Following her instructions she made her way over to the ready room staying out of the way of everyone else trying not to draw any attention. It was easier said than done when your lugging your life with you but she made it the short walk over and pressed the buzzer with her free hand. (reply Williams) (DS9 - Main Prominade Deck -Lieutenant(sg) Victoria Corsica - 0757) Victoria walked out of the air lock from the docked Federation shuttle that transferred her from station near Trill to the far reaches of DS9. She smiled as took in the sights and ssounds. Victoria was always amazed on how much you could learn about a place if you only took the time and opened one's senses to the place. Her ears twitched and tail waved stepped foward into the next stage of her life. Taking a moment to walk the Prominade she found a console. Accessing the information contained with in. It didn't take long before she located the Exeter and the docking bay it was located at. She nodded as she made her way toward the Exeter padd in hand. (Reply any) (Posted by Matthew Locke) (USS Exeter – Ready Room - Ensign Janice Hammerfield - 0800) Moving into the room she looked at the Commander and sat her case gently down on the floor. She pulled a data padd from her back and held it outstretched, “Janice Hammerfield reporting as ordered.” (reply Williams) (posted by Adam) (USS Exeter – Ready Room - CO, Lt. Commander Trip Williams - 0802) “Janice Hammerfield reporting as ordered.” "Have a seat ensign," Trip said motioning for Janice to take a seat in the chair in front of his desk. That chair had gotten a lot of use in the last 24 hours. (reply Hammerfield) "So you are a recent transfer, coming over from the Illuminar, is that correct?" (reply Hammerfield) "And it says here you have requested to switch from security to engineering. It's not often that someone makes that switch, willingly anyways. May I ask why?" (reply Hammerfield) Trip nodded. "I'm sure I can get the longer version some other day. Anyways welcome to the USS Exeter. It might be a good idea for you to head down to engineering and search out Lieutenant Merek, our Chief Engineer. Since she will be your boss, it might be a good idea to make sure you get on her good side." (reply Hammerfield) "Now then unless there is anything else, you are dismissed." (reply Hammerfield) (reply Hammerfield) (posted by Will) (USS Exeter – Ready Room - Ensign Janice Hammerfield - 0803) "Have a seat ensign," Pulling part of her uniform into place she took a quick seat careful not to slouch, “Thank you,” "So you are a recent transfer, coming over from the Illuminar, is that correct?" "Thats right. I was there for a short spell,” "And it says here you have requested to switch from security to engineering. It's not often that someone makes that switch, willingly anyways. May I ask why?" “It’s complicated,” her gaze shot down briefly then back up, “It was my minor back at the academy and when you look at most tactical systems you need to know the mechanics of how things work. Torpedo propulsion isn’t too different from a starship and besides if you need an engineer in a hot zone may as well have one that can shoot too.” Trip nodded. "I'm sure I can get the longer version some other day. Anyways welcome to the USS Exeter. It might be a good idea for you to head down to engineering and search out Lieutenant Merek, our Chief Engineer. Since she will be your boss, it might be a good idea to make sure you get on her good side." “Ill do that sir,” A sound piece of advice. She got up to her feet and picked up her kit again and paused for a moment before making her way out, “Thank you for accepting the transfer,” (reply None needed) (posted by Adam) (DS9- promenade- CTO/3O Lieutenant Ravok & NPC Lt. Taylor Larson- 0811) Ravok wanted to take the time while he could to visit the tiny shop known as Slimol's collectables. He had visited the small shop manu times as a young kid to purchase model, scaled down replicas of a wide array of starships to assemble for fun. He looked up and saw the sign. ~ It's still the same ~ He smiled. Turning the corner, Taylor stopped in her tracks. Her mind had been on other things and the last thing she had expected to see was now standing just ahead of her. A surge of anger flew through her as she watched him peruse the models. She hadn't realised but her knuckles were white from gripping the PADD she held. Walking slowly to his side, "Ravok?" He stopped in his tracks and turned around. " Yes tha...oh hey Taylor. Didn't think I'd see you here . How are you ?" He asked nervously. The Lieutenant was named Taylor Larson, she was the older sister of Ravok's ex girlfriend Lauren, from the academy. "Oh I was good until I spotted your face here. What the hell gives you the right… no sorry, the nerve to show your pointy ass face around here?" " We're on R&R...What are you so upset about? Your sister wanted me to lie to your parents and say I was Vulcan. Your dad pulled a F*$@!×^ phaser on me set to kill. So hell yeah I stormed out of there and out of her life. " He replied with anger. "You should have fought but no you took the easy way out. You left and Lauren was left to pick up the pieces." ~and me as it turns out.~ " So let me guess you found out I was on board and decided to track me down and put me in my place about your sister. Well good luck with that, I've moved on and have a woman in my life that is 10..no 20 no 50 times the woman your sister will ever be. " Resisting the urge to just lunch his face, Taylor glared at him, "You don't deserve anything. Least alone a woman. Not after what you did." She fixed him with a stare that would make most men flinch and hissed through her teeth. "Follow me." Ravok was curious as to what she needed to talk to him about So he nodded his head and followed her into a small office just off the main walkway of the promenade. Once inside, she all but threw the PADD she had in her hands at him. He took the PADD from her. " What's this ?" "Why don't you try reading it, dumb ass? See what I got left with." He looked at the PADD and fell down into a chair behind him. " Wha..What is this ?" His heat sank further than it ever had in his entire life. ~ This can't be...I can't be~ "What does it look like? You knew… she told me you knew and still…." " NO! I Never knew. She never told me, NOT ONE TIME DID ANYONE TELL ME A DAMN THING " He yelled. His anger was making his heart race. Stepping back slightly, Taylor held her ground, "Don't believe you for a second. Romulans lie, every single damn one of them." " Check my communication logs, none of them have ever been deleted. Not one communication from Lauren...not a single one….COME ON Taylor you know me. Why would I run away from this? He questioned "Because that's what you do. You run, hide and don't do what you should! Leave it for the rest of us to pick up your MESS!" " Taylor" Ravok said. Jumping up and going to her. He grabbed her by the shoulders gently. " You gotta believe me" he pleaded. Looking her in the face. "GET YOUR HANDS OFF ME!" She yelled as she shrugged him off. "She never said anything?" " No, not one attempt. She stayed away. Taylor, you and I were close. You know deep down inside I wouldn't do this. Call romulans liars all you want, but you know I'm not." Ravok said, almost to the point of tears. "She did the same to me. Left, left me to pick up what should be… " looking at Ravok, she sighed. He put his hands over his face, and sat down, letting out a loud sigh of stress. "His mind racing with thoughts of his future with Keira crumbling away. " Computer display all of my personal communication logs to my location. Voice authorization, Ravok Delta 159 Echo 2" The terminal on the wall lit up with Ravoks personal communication logs. " Computer ,display all communications with Lauren Larson." [ No communications matching your specifications found] the computer replied. " Computer display all deleted communications" Ravok requested. [ No communications matching your specifications found] the computer responded. He looked at Taylor. " See I told you I wasn't lying." Sighing, she knew he was right. "Well, now what? This was dumped on me and I can't…. I'm leaving in two days. " " She's with you? Can I see her ?" He asked . Looking at him, part of her was unsure. But, in her heart, she knew she had only one choice. Nodding, she headed to the door. Part of her feeling sorry for him. She could tell he was feeling what she did and part of her hated her sister for what she had done and what she was about to do. Ravok stood up and followed Taylor out the door. His heart was racing. He felt an anxiety beyond anything he had ever felt in his life. ( reply None) ( posted by Rob and Jackie - Npc Lt. Taylor Larson) (USS Exeter – Main Engineering - Ensign Janice Hammerfield - 0820) Janice still had her large case strapped to her back as she poked her head into engineering. She had the chance to do a quick brush up on everything she had learned back at the academy waiting for the Exeter to come back from its mission but she couldn’t help feel a little anxious about getting fully stuck into the more technical minutia of large systems. “Excuse me,” she said stopping a nearby crewman from the looks of his collar, “Im looking for Lieutenant Merek?” Her brow furled as she asked and her inflection emphasised the question. He politely pointed towards the office, “I’d give there a go first,” “Thanks,” she smiled back and made her way over. Taking a quick peek in she seen who she presumed the by the Lieutenant in the room. She applied a quick rap of her knuckles on the door frame to draw some attention, “Lieutenant Merek?” (reply Merek) “Janice Hammerfield – I’ve just been transferred over form the Illuminar,” she stepped slowly into the room and proceeded to expand further, “I was asked by the Commander to report into you next.” (reply Merek) (posted by Adam) (USS Exeter – Main Engineering – 2O/CEO – Lieutenant Keira Merek – 0823) Keira had enjoyed her night out with Ravok, she always did. The information they obtained from the Ferengi was a new twist. As she was finishing up engineering reports from the mission her thoughts dwelled on that information. ~We thought she was dead all these years.~ A redhaired human woman knocked on the door frame once to politely draw attention, “Lieutenant Merek?” “I am.” Keira stated simply, she instantly saw the case on her back. ~I wonder what’s in there.~ “You have me at a loss. You are?” “Janice Hammerfield – I’ve just been transferred over form the Illuminar,” she stepped slowly into the room and proceeded to expand further, “I was asked by the Commander to report into you next.” “Please have a seat.” She offered the chair in front of her desk to the Ensign. “What brings you over from the Illuminar?” Keira asked as a polite curiosity. (Reply Hammerfield) “I see.” Keira said. “We’re on a short post mission R&R currently, and we’re on reduced staffing. I can have you start tomorrow. That will give you time to get settled in. Did you give any thoughts to which shift you’d like to work?” (Reply Hammerfield, room for more) After the discussion with shift schedules closed out, Keira moved on. “The Exeter has a number of technologies you may or may not be familiar with. We have a quantum slipstream drive and dark matter phasers. We also have a number of upgrades in a variety of systems, 3 bioneural computer systems with a gamma class uprating, isomagnetic EPS. I’m sorry I’m rambling, did you have any questions?” (Reply Hammerfield) (Posted by Todd) (USS Exeter- Personal quarters - CSO Lt JG Erin Cortez - 0803) Opening her eyes, Erin drew in a deep breath and lay still. Looking up at her ceiling, she didn't need to turn over to know that Nix wasn't there. What had happened over the course of the last couple of hours had been something that she would remember for a long time. She knew she was a new woman, someone not held back by events and a past that had been weighing her down. That weight was now gone. A weight of a past that had dogged her since she was 17. 7 years of feeling not worthy, not powerful and being undesirable. Now, as she stretched under her covers, she knew that she was. She knew that she was strong, independent, desirable and ready for the world. Sitting up in her bed, Erin grabbed her clothes, got dressed and smiled at herself in the mirror. "A new you girl. Stronger. Better and happier." She said. Walking into the living area, something caught her eye. A small bouquet of red Roses were in a vase on her coffee table. Smiling, she wandered over and inhaled the scent. As she did, she noticed a small envelope by the vase. Picking it up, she pulled out a card. 'Be who you were meant to be, Nix.' "I will. Thankyou, Nix. Wherever you are." (Reply none) (posted by Jackie) (USS Exeter - Deck 1 - Ready Room - Lieutenant(sg) Victoria Corsica - 0820) She entered the empty Bridge the majority of the crew already enjoying the station and all it had to offer. She pressed the padd to announce her presence as her tail waved happily behind her. The doors opened and she entered to stand before the Exeter's CO. "Hello Sir," she started joyfully, confidant that her uniform was perfectlyrics pressed and in place. "I'm Victoria Corsica, transfer to the Exeter." She held out the Padd to the commanding officer of the Exeter, containing her orders. (Reply Williams) (Posted by Matthew Locke) (USS Exeter - Deck 1 - Ready Room - CO, Lt. Commander Trip Williams - 0823) If there was one thing that Trip had gotten used to when he was in charge of the fighter wing, and something he realized was even more true as the captain of a Starship, was that if you were in your ready room and trying to do paperwork, you were opening yourself up to being interrupted at least two times every hour. "Hello Sir, I'm Victoria Corsica, transfer to the Exeter." Trip looked up from the report he was writing, and minimized his open window of Spider Solitaire and smiled at the new arrival. He took the PADD in hand. "Lieutenant Junior Grade Victoria Corsica." Trip skimmed the orders and then handed the PADD back to her. "Well Lieutenant welcome to the Exeter." (reply Corsica) "According to your orders you are coming on board as our Head Counselor, but that you also have diplomatic experience, is that correct?" (reply Corsica) "Excellent. Well I'm happy to have you aboard, we'll need to chat soon, but I need to file these requests in before noon. In the meanwhile, why don't you check in with our Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Gabe Vesper since the two of you will be working very close together for the well being of the crew." (reply Corsica) "Dismissed." (reply Corsica) (USS Exeter – Main Engineering - Ensign Janice Hammerfield - 0824) “Please have a seat.” She offered the chair in front of her desk to the Ensign. “What brings you over from the Illuminar?” Keira asked as a polite curiosity. "Change of scenery – keeps you on your toes,” Janice deflected the question a little. “I see.” Keira said. “We’re on a short post mission R&R currently, and we’re on reduced staffing. I can have you start tomorrow. That will give you time to get settled in. Did you give any thoughts to which shift you’d like to work?” “Beta shift would be preferable – it should sync better with my current body clock unless you need me elsewhere?” she said leaving it open to being changed. (Reply Keira) “Understood,” she nodded, “Just so you are aware as well I am a transfer from security. I do have the engineering background but odds are my knowledge is going to be less comprehensive than someone else who was dedicated to it. If you need someone who can put things together and shoot a rifle – i’m your woman.” (Reply Keira) “You’ll get nothing but my best,” she smiled back (Reply Keira, room for more) After the discussion with shift schedules closed out, Keira moved on. “The Exeter has a number of technologies you may or may not be familiar with. We have a quantum slipstream drive and dark matter phasers. We also have a number of upgrades in a variety of systems, 3 bioneural computer systems with a gamma class uprating, isomagnetic EPS. I’m sorry I’m rambling, did you have any questions?” “No its ok,” she replied to the rambling comment, “It is certainly a lot to take in. I think it might just be a matter of getting stuck into some technical manuals in my spare time over the next few weeks and poking about the ship taking a look at things,” (Reply Keira) (Posted by Adam) (USS Exeter – Main Engineering – 2O/CEO – Lieutenant Keira Merek – 0825) “Beta shift would be preferable – it should sync better with my current body clock unless you need me elsewhere?” she said leaving it open to being changed. “That’s fine, Beta shift will work well.” Keira said. She made the change to the duty roster right then. “You’re on the roster now.” “Understood,” she nodded, “Just so you are aware as well I am a transfer from security. I do have the engineering background but odds are my knowledge is going to be less comprehensive than someone else who was dedicated to it. If you need someone who can put things together and shoot a rifle – i’m your woman.” “We could start you off on tactical systems and you could branch off from there. Our last mission took more than a few hits to tactical systems. I think the Captain might be able to sleep better at night knowing we had an expert on it.” Keira said with a smile. “You’ll get nothing but my best,” she smiled back “Excellent.” Keira said. “Before I open it up to any questions you have of me, curiosity has got the better of me and I just have to know, what’s in the case?” (Reply Hammerfield) (Posted by Todd) (USS Exeter – Main Engineering – Ensign Janice Hammerfield – 0826) “Excellent.” Keira said. “Before I open it up to any questions you have of me, curiosity has got the better of me and I just have to know, what’s in the case?” “Oh this thing,” she placed it open the table and typed a code into open it up and turning it round, “Its worn – old and modified but its my rifle. I don’t go anywhere without it.” She looked into at the scraped side showing, “Its power hungry and not as powerful as anything normally just but it is more effective as a tool.” (Reply Keira) “Three extra lens in the barrel actually,” the toggle into different orientations for different modes. I need to drop if off at security later today and get it signed in. Going to feel a bit different trading it out for an engineering kit most of the time now, but im sure ill get used to it,” (Reply Keira – room for more) Janice closed the case over and slid it back down beside her, “I guess the question I had was were you’d like me to start first but it sounds like it would be best to go over the tactical systems first from what you’ve already told me. Any part in particular needing some special love and attention?” (Reply Keira) (Posted by Adam) (USS Exeter – Main Engineering – 2O/CEO – Lieutenant Keira Merek – 0828) “Oh this thing,” she placed it open the table and typed a code into open it up and turning it round, “Its worn – old and modified but its my rifle. I don’t go anywhere without it.” She looked into at the scraped side showing, “Its power hungry and not as powerful as anything normally just but it is more effective as a tool.” “Wow.” Keira exclaimed. “She’s a beauty.” She looked at the model of phaser rifle the new engineer showed up with. Keira was familiar with the model, she had seen one before. Many of the frontiersmen in her home colony preferred phasers for their ability to be used as tools. The ones that didn’t think phasers made you too soft that is. She looked over the outer casing, there were visible alterations. “This unit has been heavily modified. At least one extra focusing lens that I can see. What all have you done to it?” “Three extra lens in the barrel actually, the toggle into different orientations for different modes. I need to drop if off at security later today and get it signed in. Going to feel a bit different trading it out for an engineering kit most of the time now, but I’m sure I’ll get used to it,” the Redhead stated. “This weapon is a labor of love, certainly. It reminds me of when I was a child, I was given a harmless ion pulse projector to study for lessons. I added three capacitors and turned it into a crude particle weapon.” (Reply Hammerfield) “I absolutely got in trouble. I set fire to a hunting lodge on accident. My mother made me replace every burnt board, with a hand hammer and nails.” Keira said with a chuckle. “The next energy weapon I was allowed to touch was at the academy. I can show you the weapons I work on.” (Reply Hammerfield) “It’s only fair,” the blonde said and reached behind her back and pulled out a curved talon-like blade. The blade was no longer than a hand’s breadth, and double edged, she placed the blade on the table with the ring pummeled handle facing the Ensign. “Go ahead.” (Reply Hammerfield) “It is very similar to the Terran Karambit, though not a copy. Romulans revere the raptor so in ancient times they made weapons out of their talons. Obviously this one is made of metal, pattern welded tritanium and duranium specifically.” Keira explained. (Reply Hammerfield, room for more) The Ensign closed the case over and slid it back down beside her, “I guess the question I had was were you’d like me to start first but it sounds like it would be best to go over the tactical systems first from what you’ve already told me. Any part in particular needing some special love and attention?” “You may find the dark matter phasers particularly interesting. They would be a slight departure from what you are used to working with.” Keira said. “We only have them on a trial run for an undetermined time period. You may never get the chance to work with them again.” (Reply Hammerfield) “Astrophysics 120, Dark matter interacts with normal matter primarily through gravitational forces.” Keira quoted from their Academy text. “Shields don’t fully work against them, but unlike conventional weapons, Structural Integrity Fields do. We used them on a derelict Saber class, crushed and tore the hull like it was aluminum foil.” (Reply Hammerfield) “Absolutely, let me know if there is anything else I can do for you.” Keira said. (Reply Hammerfield) (Posted by Todd) (USS Exeter – Personal Quarters – CFO- Lieutenant (J.G.) – Ire Williams – 0830) Ire walked in quietly into room not wanting to wake up Greta. Knowing that this was one of those few days that she was not having to get out of bed really for a work. Especially as he had just come off a night shift and would like nothing more than to curl up in bed with her and sleep. He poked his head into the bedroom and saw that the bed was made, and she was not there. ~Well that`s strange~ “Computer lights.” The room illuminated, and he realized that Greta was not asleep, but she was no in their quarters. “Computer where is Ensign Greta Smith.” [Ensign Greta Smith in on Deep Space Nine] ~Was I supposed to meet her and forgot~ He looked at himself in the bedroom mirror and paused. “You are not going to see her like that. That`s for sure. Shower, shave and clean cloths.” He headed off to the bathroom to have a cold shower which would hopefully wake him up a bit. (USS Exeter – Main Engineering – Ensign Janice Hammerfield – 0830) “This weapon is a labor of love, certainly. It reminds me of when I was a child, I was given a harmless ion pulse projector to study for lessons. I added three capacitors and turned it into a crude particle weapon.” "Haha,” she giggled, “I bet that went down a treat when they found out.” “I absolutely got in trouble. I set fire to a hunting lodge on accident. My mother made me replace every burnt board, with a hand hammer and nails.” Keira said with a chuckle. “The next energy weapon I was allowed to touch was at the academy. I can show you the weapons I work on.” “Sounds tough but fair. Cant say id be happy if I came back to find the floors a little singed. I’d love to take a look.” “It’s only fair,” the blonde said and reached behind her back and pulled out a curved talon-like blade. The blade was no longer than a hand’s breadth, and double edged, she placed the blade on the table with the ring pummeled handle facing the Ensign. “Go ahead.” Picking it up by the handle she held it firmly before using her other hand the touch the metal and run her finger down the metal parallel to the blade so as not to cut herself against it but to determine it sharpness. Her finger glided off the edge smoothly, “That is one sharp blade.” She opened her palm and looked at the patterns running down the sides, “Mot seen many similar to that. I can only presume its Romulan is design?” “It is very similar to the Terran Karambit, though not a copy. Romulans revere the raptor so in ancient times they made weapons out of their talons. Obviously this one is made of metal, pattern welded tritanium and duranium specifically.” Keira explained. "Of course,” she said sitting the blade on the table, twisting it round and nudging it handle first back toward Keira. “As much as I can admire a weapon like that I would still prefer to keep some distance between me and everything else. (reply Keira iyw) The Ensign closed the case over and slid it back down beside her, “I guess the question I had was were you’d like me to start first but it sounds like it would be best to go over the tactical systems first from what you’ve already told me. Any part in particular needing some special love and attention?” “You may find the dark matter phasers particularly interesting. They would be a slight departure from what you are used to working with.” Keira said. “We only have them on a trial run for an undetermined time period. You may never get the chance to work with them again.” "Im going to need to brush a bit up on my physics for that one,” she commented that never really being her strong suit. “Astrophysics 120, Dark matter interacts with normal matter primarily through gravitational forces.” Keira quoted from their Academy text. “Shields don’t fully work against them, but unlike conventional weapons, Structural Integrity Fields do. We used them on a derelict Saber class, crushed and tore the hull like it was aluminum foil.” "That’s impressive,” she nodded, “and some very weird quirks. Ill defiantly try to take a look at them when I get the chance.” “Absolutely, let me know if there is anything else I can do for you.” Keira said. "Of course Lieutenant,” she said standing up for the seat, “Ill get settled in and start looking things over on the Beta shift tomorrow,” She reached over to shake her hand before making to leave (reply Keira) (Posted by Adam) (USS Exeter – Main Engineering – 2O/CEO – Lieutenant Keira Merek – 0833) "Of course,” she said sitting the blade on the table, twisting it round and nudging it handle first back toward Keira. “As much as I can admire a weapon like that I would still prefer to keep some distance between me and everything else,” Hammerfield stated. “A prudent initial plan,” Kiera admitted. She didn’t want to get into a heated argument or discussion, having just met this officer, she had no way of knowing how she’d react to further discussion on the topic here and now. So she tabled the discussion of relying too heavily on one device for later. As the rest of the conversation wound down, after Hammerfield put away her older, but no less impressive rifle Keira thought to herself. ~I’ve taken up too much of her time.~ “Absolutely, let me know if there is anything else I can do for you.” Keira said. "Of course Lieutenant,” she said standing up for the seat, “Ill get settled in and start looking things over on the Beta shift tomorrow,” the Ensign said as she stood up, she reached her hand out to shake hands. Keira took her hand and shook it, “I don’t want to keep security waiting on you. I hear that Tactical Chief is a real hard-ass,” she said with a wink. (Reply Hammerfield, otherwise none) (Posted by Todd) (USS Exeter – Corridor – Sec/Tec – Ens.(sg) Stan More - 08:42 ) More realised without meaning to he had peaked Arbors interest. Maybe this was a case of least said soonest mended. “Really in what way?” “ It’s best you see the Captain now. I have things to attend to.The next stop is yours.” Stan said bowing and he stopped the lift and stepped out. (USS Exeter - Personal Quarters - Tac/Sec Ens. Stan More - 08:43 ) Scratching Lillian’s ear he sat at his desk. The comm. signal bleeped and Stan pressed a switch. His Grandmother’s face appeared. “ =/\= Och hello my wee man , are yer ken?” She asked. “ I am well Grandmother. I trust ye is the same?” Stan replied “ =/\= Well. I have me aches and pains. But I can see my wee man has the look of a gentleman. With a bee in his bonnet. What ales ye my wee man with a bee uin his bonnet?=/\= “ She said. “ The Mc Taggards. I met a cousin today that I have not seen before. She nearly punched me a new orifice. Her name was Penny McTaggard...” Stan replied “=/\= Och I be have one of me turns. The room the room be spinning. Och me eyes I canna see is that yer my wee bairn=/\=“ She began. “ Stop it Grandmother. You always pull the having a bad turn rubbish. When it is something you don’t wish to answer. Please tell me she has it wrong and there is no family feud still going on? This is 2445 you know. Not some ancient time long ago. When our forefathers wore nothing under their kilts and hurled stone balls for sport.” Stan argued. “=/\= Ok. Yes the feud still goes on. Until the western arm of the McTaggards. Admit to causing the feud and seal it in the old highland way of the blood. =/\=“ She told him. “ But that’s impossible because one of the two who started this have no direct descendants. Due to Grandfather being killed in action. During the Dominion war.” Stan said “=/\= The rules are the rules. Not even death is an exception.=/\=“ She told him For the next hour Stan tried to get his Grandmother. To speak about the other side of the family. But she would not budge because if the feud. Finally he gave up. Wished her well and walked out the room. He needed to go back to Quarks. ( Reply , None ) ( Posted by:- Norman 🐼) (Deep Space 9 - Quarks - SPC Ensign Greta Smith - 0847) Having been up for a while, Greta had found her way into the bar and was sat with a plate of food and a mug of strong coffee. Truth be told, she hadn’t slept more than a few hours a night since the funeral for Ryelle. She hadn’t wanted to go but she knew that she had to, for the ship, for the other crew but, more importantly, for Ire. She hadn’t told him, didn’t want to just yet but the funeral had dredged up a lot for her. As she sat, quietly by herself, her mind wandered back to the day. The day that she hadn’t thought about in a good few years. (Flashback) Standing in the wind, pulling her coat around her, Greta fought against the tears that were falling. The wind had the soft smell of the heather that dotted the landscape near the church. Being back home, especially for this, was hard. Closing her arms as she heard footsteps coming from within the church, she pulled out a small handkerchief from her pocket and dabbed her eyes. “How are you doing, little hen?” Opening her eyes, she saw the face of her brother. His eyes, although he would not admit to crying, were red. She shook her head and looked down. Pulling her into him, her brother held onto her as she shook a little. “Why now… he.. Had to pick now.” she asked, falteringly. “Hen, things like this.. They don’t work to a time table. You know that. You know that he would have given anything to see you graduate. It…. it just wasn’t in his future.” “What do we do now?” she asked. Lifting her head up to look at him, her older brother smiled down and said, “You go make him proud. That’s what you do.” Nodding, she stood to one side of the doorway and watched as her mother walked out before her father was brought out by the six carrying him so gently. (End of flashback) Closing her eyes, Greta spoke, under her breath, “I hope i am making you proud, dad.” (Reply Any) (Posted by Jackie) (Deep Space 9 - Quarks – CFO – Lieutenant (J.G.) – Ire Williams - 0850) Feeling more awake and clean he stepped into Quarks Bar. By the time he had, had a quick shower and gotten dressed the computer had said that Greta was in Quarks. He smiled to himself as the age-old saying was that on Deep Space Nine all paths lead to Quarks. Had been true when he had been here when he was a child. It had been strange walking along the Promenade looking at all the shops some that he remembered and some that were new. It brought back a feeling of nostalgia for a time when things seemed simpler and the young Ire only had to make sure that he did not get into trouble compared to Chief Flight Officer Lieutenant JG Ire. ~Things might be more complicated now than before~ He spotted Great sitting by a table with a plate of food and cup of what he suspected was coffee. ~But they are defiantly better~ His stomach rumbled, and he realized that he was hungry. A waitress intercepted him as he began to cross the room. “What would you like?” ~Ow what was it called~ “Do you still have DS9 full breakfast.” She nodded. “Can I have one and a mug of strong tea please. I`ll be over there on that table.” He continued across the room but as he crossed the room he saw that she was worried about something. ~What`s happened~ He slid into the chair across from her. “Hay you okay?” (Reply Greta) (Reply Greta, any) (Posted by Robbie) (Deep Space 9 - Quarks – CFO Lieutenant (J.G.) Ire Williams & SPC Ensign Greta Smith - 0853) “Hey you okay?” Snapping out of her train of thought, Greta looked up and smiled softly at Ire, "Would you believe me if I said yes?" Ire smiled. “You know that you may be able to pull the wool over people's eyes with that smile but I know you. So what's up? This is your day off. I was expecting you to be enjoying your first lie in for ages.” Sighing, Greta took a sip of her coffee and put the cup back on the table. "The funeral… it just brought back some memories for me." “Do you want to talk about it? You don't have to if you don't want to.” "I … just brought back my dad… his… you know." “I can understand that.” "Silly I know. Haven't thought about it in a while." “It's not silly. Hey you are talking to the guy who could not walk past a graveyard for years and feel jealous that other people's loved ones were buried.” "It's… I hate funerals at the best of times. That was just… a lot." “Yes it was…..it's never easy being the ones left behind and especially with what happened with Ryelle. I only knew him in passing unfortunately but from what Trip said he was a good guy.” Ire flinched at his words `being a good guy` it sounded so hollow when talking about someone. "It's never easy. Especially when you don't get a chance to say goodbye." He was about to say something but the waitress arrived with his large breakfast and mug of tea. He smiled his thanks at her and then looked over at Greta. “Sorry I was not expecting this to be so big.” He said slightly sheepishly, looking at her normal size breakfast plate. Smiling softly, "You have a bigger appetite than I do." “I am always hungry after a night shift. It just messes with my body clock.” He grabbed the fork and began to eat. "I meant to ask.. have you spoken to Rylee yet?" He paused and then put the fork back down. “I saw her after her surgery but she was out of it on pain meds.” Raising an eyebrow, Greta folded her arms and leant back in her chair. “What don't look at me like that.” "Like what?" “Like Ire you should man up and talk to her.” "Am I wrong?" “Well no.” "Ire, I'm not the only one that's got things on their mind. So spill it right now or no more…" she winked at him. Ire rolled his eyes “It's good to know that there is more to your relationship then just that.” "I know you fly boy. So, come on. Talk to me." “Says a fly girl. Okay, Okay. I have been the cause of her injuries twice now and the last time she could have died. I know you are going to tell me that Rylee is a big girl and a starfleet officer and that she knows the risks or she would not be out here.” Leaning forward, she put a hand on his arm and smiled, "I wasn't going to say that. What I was going to say is that you are putting the blame on yourself when they were accidents." “You say that but first I am the pilot which means no matter what anyone else says what happens on or too my craft is my responsibility. You're a pilot, hell you were squadron boss like me.” "Yes. I was." He paused for a moment and then sighed. “I could have saved her.” he said in a small voice. "At what cost?" “I ran the simulations…...I could have got Rylee home with a concussion and not bleeding into her brain.” "Ire, it was not your fault." “I know. Still my ship, my command. Someone under my command was injured due to my actions.” "And you don't think that Trip and Ravok have been there? I've been there. It hurts you question yourself…" “I don't know Trip and Ravok do it. Being in charge. They come across so calm and professional.” "And I bet they are shaking inside." “Yes being a Void Haunter One was similar and we have lost people but we are pilots I don't know it's just different. We understand the risks every time we get into our fighter but she from Ops for goodness sake.” "And she knew the risks. From what I hear, she saved you the first time. You could not have predicted what happened." “Yes she did and no I could not but still sometimes being the junior pilot in a squadron doesn't seem too bad.” He reached forward and held her hand. “Of course I don't want that coz I would not be here with you. It's just that command is not the medals and home of tea and biscuits they said at the academy.” Smiling, she squeezed his hand gently, "that's life." “Sorry I have been waffling on when it's you who needed the talk.” "You needed it more than me. Thinking about my dad has made me wonder what I'm going to be like as a parent." “You are going to be a great mother. You have nothing to worry about and you will still look beautiful even when you get a bit bigger and start producing heat like a runaway warp core.” Laughing, "No, I'm not. Ire, one thing though. Don't treat me like a porcelain doll when that does happen. It's being pregnant, not fragile." “But you will be pregnant you will need to make sure you are safe and that nothing upsets the baby.” "Treat me like a porcelain doll and i swear hormones will be the least of your worries." He grinned and held up his hands in surrender. “Okay, okay, I promise that I will only treat you like a porcelain doll when you want me to.” She nodded, smiled widely, "Ire… would you have ever thought that we would be sat here, about to get married and talking about kids? It's so far away from us being in the same fighter together. " Ire smiled. “I am surprised we survived the mission after getting launched into space.” "But.. kids. Can we really do that? Can we cope?" “I think kids will be the least of our problems. We will be fine.” (Reply any) (Posted by Jackie and Robbie) (USS Exeter - Sickbay - Medical Officer, Ensign JG Katie Jamison and Head Nurse, Ensign SG Violet Drake - 0900) Even though they had a bit of R&R, there was still some work that needed to be done, and as the head nurse, Violet Drake had to make sure that the new shipment of supplies was stocked appropriately. Exeter's sickbay was rather bare, it was just her and the on call physician. Violet walked over to Dr. Katie Jamison. VIolet’s british accent was made more exotic by her Persian heritage. “So Dr. Jamison.” Came the posh, melodic, more upper class British accent. “How’d you get stuck in sickbay while everyone else is on holiday.” Katie turned at the voice “Hi there, and I don’t do holidays, don’t do downtime if I can help it. I prefer to be working.” She looked around her. “Stocking that last shipment?” Katie asked “Yes, then I plan on getting my way over to Bajor. Even though you might not like holidays, I love them. I hear there are some wonderful spots on the planet to visit. I would love to be amongst the nature, sitting by a pond or on a beach, reading poetry. That to me would be a delight.” “Being raised among Klingons leaves little for nature, and enjoying things as you enjoy. I prefer working out, bettering my skills as a doctor and warrior.” “So you really don’t like taking a holiday? How do you relax?” “I do, but not in the same way you do. I wasn’t raised to take time off, as most others do.” “But taking time is important, at least from a mental perspective. It’s important to give yourself the opportunity to decompress from work. But what am I saying, you’re a doctor, you know this.” Katie smiled “No truer words have been spoken. I take time for myself, I take time away from work. It’s just that I am sure my type of enjoyment and time away from work isn’t for everyone. A holodeck full of klingons isn’t for everyone” “I guess it’s just the old adage, the choice. Do you live to work or do you work to live. Is work what you do because its who you are, or do you work so that you can be free to then live your life. Is work the essential or play. Me, I’d work double shifts every day for two weeks, if it meant I could have a week off on a sandy beach, just me and a bunch of attractive locals.” Katie shook her head “You can keep the attractive locals my friend. But I do understand what you are saying and they are wise words.” “Well I can’t have all the locals. Unless of course there is someone who you fancy. Has a suitor caught your eye Doctor Jamison?” Violet paused, “Sorry that might be a bit of an inappropriate question, my apologies Doctor.” Katie let out a loud laugh. “I have friends, I don’t know that I would call any of them a suiter or even close. But only time will tell.” She shook her head. “Not out of line at all, it was an honest question.” “So you are saying that there isn’t anyone who strikes your fancy. Rumor has it that Ensign Paul Sleeford wanted to take you to dinner. Well before he had his leg blown off by a sniper rifle. Poor chap. He’s got a cybernetic leg now, though. Silver lining I guess.” Nodding she sighed. “Yes, we still have a standing dinner date, which I plan on collecting as soon as he’s up to it. The crew has had it rough. Some more than others.” “Isn’t that the truth. Well I hope it goes well. Have you thought about where you might go?” Katie shrugged “It’ll be his choice, I am interested to see what he has in mind. I am not sure he would like my choices.” “I guess gagh is probably not the best choice for a first date.” “I think fresh gagh is not what most think of when they think of fine dining.” “Anyways doctor, I think I’m about done here, I’m probably going to bounce and then get ready to head over to the promenade. Are you sure I can’t convince you to join me?” “You go have fun, someone has to hold down the fort. Have fun for both of us.” “Okay, I will, but doctor, remember what they say, all work and no play make Dr. Jamison a dull girl.” Violet then laughed at her own joke. Katie laughed. “I probably am a pretty boring person.” “Remember Doctor, when you go out with Ensign Sleeford, you can never go wrong with a good curry.” “I will remember that Violet, thanks.” Katie watched her leave and turned back to her work.” Violet smiled and then left sickbay, hoping that the doctor would at some point pull herself away from her work. (reply none) (posted by Will and Kathleen) (USS Exeter – Main Engineering - CTO/3O- Lieutenant Ravok-0910) Ravok walked into main Engineering and just stopped. He just stared at Keira from a distance. Examining every detail of her face while she worked. He was savoring these final moments before he completely turned her world...their world upside down. Taking a deep breath he walked over to her. " Lieutenant, a word." Ravok said to her. "You can't say it here?" Keira asked. " I need you to step away from what you're doing and follow me. " He insisted. Honestly it wouldn't be the first time since their relationship began that he had told her something in confidence. He walked into her office and shut the door behind them. "Is it that serious?" Keira asked, but the look on his face answered for him. "Computer, secure this room authorization Merek, Alpha-one-one-three." " There is something you need to know. Something I just found out. " He looked down at the small PADD in his hand. "Go on." Keira said cautiously. " Ok , you know about my ex from the academy, Lauren. Even though we haven't gone into details you are aware that her and I were...intimate. " "It wasn't anything you expressly said, maybe I was in denial, but yeah…." she said and began intently staring at the floor in her office, "I kinda figured." " Her sister is on DS9 and...Look " he said laying the small PADD on the desk for her to look at it. " I swear I didn't know Keira " Ravok said, trying to hold the sound of his heart breaking back in his voice. She picked up the offered PADD, and opened the first in a series of files. A holo-pic. " Her name is Rayna Larson, born stardate 2443.11.17 and she is my daughter. " Ravok said with a glimmer of a smile. Saying those words for the first time made the situation even more real for him. "I just…." Keira was dumbfounded and speechless. "How?" Unconsciously she gripped the PADD tighter. " She is currently under the legal custody and guardianship of Lieutenant Taylor Larson , her biological aunt on DS9. As you can see the DNA analysis confirms she is indeed my child…." The device took Ravok's explanation as verbal commands and brought up the DNA comparison report. There were pictures that highlighted key base pairs showing the similarities. Had this been anyone else, she might have found it interesting. Her eyes gravitated toward the final part of the report, it's conclusion. Then a single word in big green letters: "Match" Her grip on the PADD got tighter, stressing the outside casing of the device as her thoughts were swimming in anger, jealousy, and self pity. Ravok stepped toward her but still kept his distance. " Talk to me , say something…" The casing of the device finally gave way, Keira's fingers dug in causing cracks to spider-web out. She had been looking down the whole time, and now hearing Lathuel's voice filled with concern, she looked up, even though emotionally it was painful. Ravok saw the device begin to fracture. He looked at her as she looked up. "It was supposed to be me," she blurted out. "I wasn't ready yet." Her face flushed green with a barely controlled storm of emotion. " Keira , don't. " Ravok pleaded with her. Knowing she was about to unleash The dam had broken now, it all came out. If emotions were water, Keira might drown them both. "I was supposed to be the one to give you a beautiful child." she said her voice raised as she tapped her sternum. "Me. Not her." Ravok didn't know what to say. " You are.." He was cut off from her continued flow of emotion. "She took so many of your firsts. I guess I'm just a naive girl from some podunk backwater planet that was in denial that two people in a relationship wouldn't get physical." Keira poured her feelings out as the PADD clattered to the floor, but still remained intact. Not knowing what to say or do. " If you wouldn't mind , I'm going to see...meet her." She exhaled forcefully. "No, of course not." Keira said quietly as she hung her head, embarrassed at the very raw display of emotion he just witnessed. "I can understand you'd want to see her." Ravok approached her. " I want you to come with me. " "I really don't like your ex girlfriend." Keira admitted, and truer words were never spoken. "Is...is she in the picture at all, your ex I mean. Does she see her daughter?" He shook his head. " Join the club. I can't stand her. In fact I think I hate her. I don't understand how a person could just give up their child. She gave up all legal rights of the girl to her sister Taylor ,shortly after she was born. Her father apparently found out about her pregnancy and died shortly thereafter of a heart attack. The idea of a Romulan grandchild I guess was too much for him. Lauren has also ignored every attempt at contact made by her sister." ~At least I won't have to see her at all.~ " Lieutenant Taylor Larson is preparing Legal documents and today at 1200 hours the girl is being signed over to me. Taylor never wanted kids. She loves her niece but if the girl can end up with one of her parents , she would prefer it that way better." Ravok explained. "I don't think I can go with you, to meet her, not yet." Keira said softly. " If you want no part of this, say so now and I will completely understand. You're young with your entire life and career in front of you...but if I can be honest. I need you, more than you'll ever know" "No, nothing like that." Keira said quickly correcting any train of thought of a break up. "Going to see her now, with my emotions like this...I don't want that little girl to think this is her fault, because it's not." Ravok bent down and picked up the PADD. " I'm going to go meet her." "You should." Keira said taking the PADD she removed the loaded isolinear chip. ~Good it's not damaged.~ She picked up one of the reading devices on her desk and removed the chip from it and loaded Ravok's into the device and handed it back. "So I assumed she's moving in with us? Eventually?" Keira asked. Ravok let out a breath " Well, yes. She will be with me tonight. I have my work cut out for me. " "Wow, that's not a lot of time." Keira said her face was no longer flushed. "If you get an idea of what kind of furniture to put into the guest room, we can make that her room." " I can go to the promenade and see what I can get. Should be some goods for trade down on Bajor as well. I can make a trip and buy some stuff." He responded. "Easy there, moneybags, I've got some replicator rations saved up, I can handle the simple stuff, or maybe we can have her things from her room beamed over?" ~Wow, this is really happening.~ Keira thought. Ravok laughed. " Money bags? " He tilted his head. " It's not like that." He laughed. " When I go there I will see what she has. Anything that is hers I will bring along with her. I'm just worried how this change is going to affect her. " Ravok said. "Fair enough, just let me know. I can use the cargo transporters to beam over anything you don't want to carry. Might take a bit to fit it into the ship schedule." " Oh s**t, I have to talk to Trip and fill out the forms to bring family onboard. " Ravok stated. "Trip? He might actually be more excited than you are, once he finds out." Keira said, finally cracking a smile. He grabbed her hand. " You are truly the best thing to have ever happened to me. Nothing will ever change that. " "You are for me too," she reciprocated. "When are you two coming back." " I will be back soon. I'll keep you posted on everything. I love you" Ravok said to her. He could see she was hurt deep but she was remaining strong for his benefit. "I love you too, Flyboy. Go get your girl." He walked towards the door and ran into it with a loud smacking sound. " Unlock the door please…" Ravok said, with his face against the door not wanting to turn around due to his embarrassment. "Computer, release locking mechanism, authorization Merek, Alpha-one-one-three." " Thank you" He said laughing and walked out the door ( reply none needed) ( posted by Todd and Rob ) (Uss Exeter - Deck 9 - Nine and Dine - aCOO Ensign Paul Sleeford 09:30) Sitting having a leisurely breakfast, dressed in gym shorts and t-shirt from his mornings session on the treadmill, he was 'enjoying' the not on duty, meaning he could have a late breakfast and a lazy day. Taking his mug of coffee he walked out of the diner and headed off to get mauled about by the duty medical staff. He knew at some stage he'd need to head onto the station and obtain a bottle of something for Vespers. (Deep Space Nine- Promenade ––MCPO – Intelligence Analyst – Rebecca Faust - 0930) Rebecca looked out of the Promenade's large view port at the new ship she had been assigned to. It was called the USS Starfire and it was roughly half the size of the Exeter but as she knew its smaller more compact size did not mean that she did not have teeth. She had a vague idea about where they were going but as this was now being run mostly by Starfleet Intelligence who guarded their knowledge even more than a stubborn Vulcan there was no way of knowing for sure. ~I guess I will find out what`s going on when everyone else dose~ She paused to look herself in the reflection and scrutinized what she was. As a Master Chief Petty Officer there were standards and expectations to be upheld. ~Probably going to have a crew of babies again. I hope there is going to be a good COB on board as they are going to need a lot of hand holding~ She paused giving herself a mild rebuke. The Exeter had left Mars with green crew and they had, had a full year to get ready for it. She gave a mental shudder at the memory of arriving on the Mystique from Trill and seeing how young everyone was. It had made her feel older then her 35 years. She gave her reflection a last once going over to make sure that everything was where it should be and then turned and headed for her new ship. ~Good enough. Can`t let the newbies think that the Chiefs are going soft~ (Reply any) (Posted by Robbie) (DS9– Crew Quarters section- Larson personal Quarters- CTO/3O- Lieutenant Ravok-0944) Ravok buzzed the door to the quarters. Trying to calm his nerves while waiting. He wished he had someone there with him, but he didn't have that luxury. " Come in." Taylor called out. The door opened. " Hey Taylor." He said nervously looking around her quarters. Most of the space was filled with packed cases of Taylor's belongings. " I guess you're ready to move out?" Ravok asked with a smile trying to break the tension. She looked at the quarters behind her. " Yeah it's a work in progress" Into the room came a little girl running at near full speed. Her curly hair bounced as she ran. Ravok looked at the nearly two year old child and his heart began to race. " Can I?" Ravok asked, gesturing his hand towards the girl. Taylor nodded her head. " Go on" He walked over to the area she was playing in. Ravok looked down at the girl and noticed she was playing with a familiar stuffed animal. It was a little aged now, but it was a stuffed Llama that he had given Lauren on one of their first dates to a carnival in San Francisco. He had won it for her in a game called ring toss. The little girl turned around and looked at him. Raising her eyebrow at him. Ravok got down on the floor in front of her. " Hi Rayna, how are you?" She looked at the side of his head then touched her own ear. " Ear like mine." She said. Ravok smiled " Yes, just like yours. " He said back to her. He was glad his eye didn't frighten her. " Who is your friend?" He asked and pointed at the stuffed animal. She pulled the Llama close to her. " No mine" She declared, stomping her foot. ~ Oh great. Another feisty woman in my life. ~ " Rayna , sweetie."Said Taylor as she walked over to them. " This is...your daddy." she said. Ravok looked at the girl and felt his stomach swirling. Rayna tilted her head , looking at Ravok and back at her aunt. " Daddy? " Taylor took her little hand in hers. " I'm Tee Tee and he is Daddy. Your going to go live with him" Rayna turned around and started playing with her toys again. Ravok looked at Taylor. " We have really good counselors on board the Exeter. With time she will adapt." Taylor's eyes watered up. " I just feel like she is being torn in million directions, Ravok. She's a child, a good child too and so smart god she's unbelievably smart. She knows so many things but has trouble communicating herself sometimes. " Ravok smiled. " Hey Rayna , do you like dogs ?" She dropped her Llama and turned around " Puppy?" She squeaked loudly. He nodded his head and smiled. " Oh yeah she's a good girl. Her name is Venus." Rayna made a confused face. " Planet?" She asked. Taylor laughed. " Yes ,like the planet. Very good Rayna" Ravok was impressed. " That's really good Rayna. Wanna see Venus? " " Uh huh " she replied with a smile. Ravok laughed and looked down at the floor at her assortment of toys and noticed nacelles sticking out from the pile. He reached over and pulled the small toy that was a tiny replica of a starship. Rayna looked at him " Sovereign Class" Ravok looked at her shocked. " That's right." He turned to Taylor. " How does she?" " Oh she loves to have bedtime stories of starfleet and spaceships read to her. You should see the little collection she has in her room. Everytime a new type of ship comes here I try to get a toy of that ship for her and let her see it from one of the windows that allow us a clear view of the docking port. " Ravok laughed. " No kidding? You should see my house in Alaska. 6,000 square feet with nearly half of it covered with model starships. " " Lauren used to tell me about your toys." Taylor side eyed him. " Toys? No no no." He laughed, shaking his head. " They are models, some of them are rare,limited editions with special licensing that makes it illegal to replicate them. So no they are not TOYS" He Exclaimed. " TOYS!!!" Rayna yelled at him. This caused Taylor to burst out in laughter. Ravok started laughing too. " Sure whatever you say Rayna." He said with a loving smile. He turned back to Taylor. " Has she ever been on a starship, I mean has she ever seen a warp core with her own eyes or seen a bridge ?" " Well she's been on several ships but has never seen a bridge or a warp core in person. " She responded. " Hey Rayna, do you want to see something cool ?" Ravok asked her. She tilted her head. Ravok looked to Taylor. " Go ahead she's your daughter." He smiled. " Thank you" He stood up and reached a hand down to Rayna " Come on I'll show you my toys." Instead of taking his hand Rayna reached her arms up. Ravok didn't hesitate to pick her and the Llama up. " We'll be back. " He said to Taylor. "Take your time. I will finish packing " She responded. " Bye bye Rayna. Tee Tee will see you later " Taylor said lovingly. " Ok " Rayna responded as her and Ravok walked out the door. ( reply None needed) ( posted by Rob Davis) (Uss Exeter - deck 7 - Sickbay - aCOO Ensign Paul Sleeford 09:45) Walking out of the lift and entering an empty sickbay, Sleeford looked around for his daily torturer, approaching the office he heard voices talking quietly. Poking his head round the door he smiled. "Morning. Ensign Sleeford for his daily session of being mauled around by sadists." (Reply Jamison) Laughing he walked into the office. "Morning. Seriously, I've come for my checkup. " Walking to the closest bed, Sleeford jumped up and swung his legs gently, looking down at the scarring around the knee. (Reply Jamison) Sitting there as Katie moved his left leg back and forward, twisting it, wincing slightly at the pain, the scars had healed, leaving a faint line, just visible above the knee cap. (Reply Jamison) Sitting there as Katie wrote up the notes,Sleeford started to whistle a simple tune. "So dinner, any place on DS9 catch your fancy?" (Reply Jamison) Wrinkling his nose, "I'll be honest, I like my food not moving, There's a Bajorian place on the Promenade. Always wanted to try Hasperat, see what all the fuss is about. People are saying it can blow your socks off." (Reply Jamison) Jumping off the bed Sleeford faced Katie, "Okay I'll swing by your quarters around 12:30, if thats okay?" (Reply Jamison) (Uss Exeter - deck 7 - Sickbay - MO Ensign Katie Jamison 09:45) Katie looked up from where she was going through a list of supplies at the sound of Pauls voice. "Morning. Ensign Sleeford for his daily session of being mauled around by sadists." As he entered her office he continued. "Morning. Seriously, I've come for my check-up. " She laughed. "Is that what I am now? A sadist?" she stood and motioned to a nearby biobed as she led him out of the office. "Come on, lets start your torture." Laughing as he was lead to a bio bed, Sleeford tried not to limp too much, "No, Just that for the past three days that's all anyone's done, twist, pull. " Katie examined his healing injury, manipulating the leg to be sure that there was no limitations to his mobility and looking for tenderness. Sitting there as Katie moved his left leg back and forward, twisting it, wincing slightly at the pain, the scars had healed, leaving a faint line, just visible above the knee cap. Noting his expression. "I can give you something for the pain if you want." Shaking his head Paul smiled, "No thats fine, I rattle now, it's just the sharp movements that hurt, but its early days yet" Sitting there as Katie wrote up the notes, Sleeford started to whistle a simple tune. "So dinner, any place on DS9 catch your fancy?" Katie smiled at his question. "I'm more a gagh person, but I am sure you knew that." Wrinkling his nose, "I'll be honest, I like my food not moving, There's a Bajorian place on the Promenade. Always wanted to try Hasperat, see what all the fuss is about. People are saying it can blow your socks off." Laughing Katie nodded. "Sure we can try that. Why don't you surprise me." Jumping off the bed Sleeford faced Katie, "Okay I'll swing by your quarters around 12:30, if thats okay?" "I'll be ready" she said as she tucked the padd she'd been taking notes on into her pocket. She headed back to her office as he left sickbay. [Later] (USS Exeter – Ready room – CO, Lt. Commander Trip Williams and Physiotherapist Lt(jg) Cerise Blake - 0953) "Lieutenant Blake reporting duty Sir." Her voice warm and soft, but with a hint of nervousness that she hadn't felt in a long time. “Have a seat Lieutenant,” Trip said motioning towards the couches. He then got up and walked over there from his desk. “Normally I do these things from my desk, quick, easy, in and out. But something tells me your arrival warrants a longer, more comfortable chat.” Cerise nodded, and took a seat. "That seems best Commander.?" Her manner was sad almost, demure. “Look, I know your reputation from high school. But you also dated my cousin Jimmy, and he swears he saw something in you no one else did, so I’m gonna trust his gut on this one. Which is why when I put in a request for a Physiotherapist yesterday, I requested you specifically. You were already on DS9, it made sense. I believe people can change. According to Jimmy, you did.” Cerise nodded. Jimmy and I...dated I suppose. It was never a real thing, we were barely past kids. We both knew that. Comm…" She sighed. 'Permission to use names for both our sanity Sir?" “Granted Cerise. "Thank you. That means a lot." She drew a breath. "Trip. I was Queen Bitch. Let's not sugar coat it. I was so full of 'I am'. Athletics team. Cheerleader squad. Gym squad. I was so focused on that I started seeing rivals. Everywhere." “I mean, a lot of us were that focused on that kind of stuff in high school. I mean as soon as my cousins Jimmy, DJ, and Chris graduated, well I was Big Man on campus. Captain of the Baseball team. But yeah, you were Queen Bitch in high school.” "It hit me bad. Anyone who was a threat, was a target. It sickens me how I saw people. Innocent...kids who.just wanted to learn stuff ,you know? They weren't up for track, or pommel. I know you know what I mean." “Not really, I mean, I wanted to learn and play sports.” "Wise guy." She rolled her eyes in good nature. "You understood my point." “I do.” "Got worse after that. Trip, You were a Jock, not in a bad way, but you remember the competition. I was up for not only all-schools under 18s champion, but up for the Terran floor team." “Yeah, everyone thought you were the next big thing.” She put her hand into her pocket, and pulled out a small emitter. "Night of...morning after senior prom. Its...not a pleasant picture. You...don’t have to... She said it across the table. “I know, and Tommy’s still in prison over it. Bastard spiked everything liquid. 90% of the party goers intoxicated. He drives you and Miranda Oglesbee home. He crashes, you shatter lord knows what, Miranda and the passengers of the other vehicle die at the scene, and the bastard walks away from the wreck with just a scratch. I was sorry to hear about that by the way.” Cerise dabbed her eyes at the memory, not for her loss, but others. "Miranda was a lovely, gentle, kid, her parents and I talk regularly." She continued "And in the year that followed, I...rather the old stupid selfish, heartless me died, and I'm actually glad that she did." “Oh?” Trip said, “And don’t worry, I’m not using any of my Betazoid abilities.” She nodded. "Thank you." A sigh "I'm sorry. I don't often talk about this. I spent that year with people who wanted to help. With people who got up every day and the only reason they did was to hope that I had the strength to take a single step. There was a flight of stairs." She motioned three feet off the ground. "Yay high." I remember the day I did those steps. They were all in tears. It was that moment I kinda knew. When I could move, I started talking to other patients, then helped them up...you know?" Trip nodded. "Trip…" she spoke quietly. "I need to ask about the proverbial elephant in the room. Ashlyn…" “You mean Trashlyn… yeah those wounds, they cut deep. But in the long run, oddly enough, I think your hurt made her a stronger person.” Cerise drew her breath and held it to stop the tears of regret. "I was so vile to her. Honestly it made me so happy when I heard about you two. Look. It'll make life difficult but I can stay completely away. I'll only ever message her about bookings I need. Whatever you, and she wants." “I think you should talk to her. She okayed my requesting you by the way. Took some smoothing over, but I wouldn’t have brought you on board without her approval.” "Trip, you can use whatever Betezoid skills you want. I'm not that girl anymore. That year made me reevaluate everything. Would the Cerise you knew even have considered going to the Academy and becoming a physio?" "Cerise I don't need my abilities to see you've changed." "I haven't done any gymnastics since the crash. Every now and then I stand at the top of the run to the vault and pommel. I'm tempted just for a second to try, just to see if I can, but that was old me. Now I do yoga classes, hydrotherapy, sports massage." "If I can be honest. I never thought the bully was the real you." Cerise Shrugged. “Originally maybe no, it’s what I became though. The popularity got to me.” "I mean your impressive accolades and high school popularity aside, my cousin wouldn't have dated you if he thought you were a terrible human being. If he thought the bitch was the real you, he'd never have bothered." “That’s good of you to say.” She smiled wainly. “Look, You’re busy. I’m taking up far too much of your time than is fair.” She stood up. “Would you mind asking Ashlyn if she’ll meet me somewhere at her convenience. It wouldn’t be fair to stroll into her office and be horribly oppressive you know?” “True, but I think it would mean more to her if you reached out to her directly, rather than an intermediary.” “I’ll take that as good advice.” She pulled herself together and drew a breath. “With your permission Sir?” “Cerise, the only people here who knew the old you are myself, my cousin Billy, Ailynn, and Ash. Billy and I want you here, and Ailynn and Ash won’t cause trouble. The Fresh start that you’ve given yourself, the new person you’ve become. The you that you want to be, she’s all that matters here. Forget who you were. We only care about who you want to be. And so far, I like what I see.” “That’s good to hear. You’ve no idea how on edge I was, and actually how surprised I was to get your request; but the support and belief means a lot.” “Oh and go check in with Dr. Vesper when you get a chance. Dismissed.” “I will Commander. Thank you.” She nodded briefly before turning and leaving the room, her past dwindling further behind her, and her future, hopefully one step closer with each footfall. (Reply none) (Posted by Will and Mark) (USS Exeter – Deck 3, Merek and Shara Quarters – 2O/CEO – Lieutenant Merek -1003) “Computer, lights.” Keira said as the door opened. It started creeping up on her, but she felt like she had betrayed Ravok some how. Her going with him to pick up his daughter meant a lot to him, and she let him down. Keira felt that clearing out the guest room to make way for his daughter’s things would be a way to let him know that she was “on board” with what he was trying to do, and that was be a father. As she entered Venus ran thundering right up to her with her favorite squeak toy. “Hey girl, miss me?” Keira asked as she pet the dog’s head, ran her fingers like a claw down her neck and gave her a good pat on the side. Sufficiently distracted Keira reached in with her other hand and snatched Venus’s toy from her mouth. Keira held the toy up high and gave it a couple of good squeaks. Venus sat down waiting to receive her toy, patiently at first but another couple of squeaks and she could hardly contain it, her hind end moved side to side from excitement. Keira tossed the toy in the next section which landed on the carpet. The dog thundered after it and trundled off to torture her prize. Keira entered the guest room portion of their shared living arrangements. Honestly she couldn’t remember if it had even been opened since they put everything in here. And there wasn’t a lot so this would be a short chore. “Computer, lock cargo transporters on guest bed this section for recycling.” Keira ordered. [Voice authorization required.] “Authorization Merek, two-four-seven-Epsilon.” Silently the adult sized guest bed dematerialized in sparkling lights. She felt satisfied with a job well done and she walked out of the guestroom. Then she saw a glint, barely noticeable, but it was there. She knew exactly what it was. ~Knives and blades aren’t suitable to have around with a child.~ She knew there were at least a half dozen with in a small person’s reach, four more if she used a chair to get up higher. “This is going to take much longer than I thought.” She said to no one and got back to work. (Reply none required) (posted by Todd) (Deep Space Nine - Promenade - OPS Officer, Ensign SG Santiago Rodriguez Trujillo and Shuttle Maintenance Officer, Ensign SG Ista Tiar - 11:00) Santiago loved people watching. It was a hopping place, the market area of DS9. Lots of people to watch. Though one caught his eye. A Trill officer from the Exeter. He had seen her around, she worked in the shuttle bay. But they hadn’t spoken before, but he was bored, and people watching was more fun with a friend. So quietly and politely he approached her. “Buenas tardes, I do not believe we have had the pleasure of meeting.” he said in a thick spanish accent, “Santiago Rodriguez Trujillo, Exeter ops officer, how do you do?” Isra had been wandering the shops on DS9, not really looking for anything in particular, just wandering when a voice roused her and she looked up, and smiled slightly. “No I don’t believe we have. Isra Tiar, Exeter flight maintenance. I was just browsing the shops. How about you?” “Ummm, I guess you could call it a little bit, of, como se dice, ah yes window shopping?” Isra nodded. “Yes, window shopping” “Oh, what am I looking for, nadie in particular, I mean nada, nothing, nothing in particular.” Santiago giggled to himself. “I am not really looking for anything specific myself. Just taking a break and getting some downtime and relaxation.” She looked around her. “Want company? We can window shop together.” “Well ok, but I’m not sure you and I are shopping for the same things.” Santiago couldn’t contain his laughter. “Sorry, I find myself hilarious.” Isra laughed, “You’ll never know unless we shop together.” “So Isra, Iiiiiiisrrrrrrrra. That’s fun to say. Tell me about yourself. Who are you in your corazon?” She shook her head and laughed. “Is my name that fun to say? “I’m going to let you lead the way. I am just window shopping. Not looking for anything in particular. As to who I am … guess that is to be determined.” “IIIIIIIIISRRRRRRAAAA, oh IIIIIIISRRRAAA,” Santiago said in a sing song voice. “So cryptic. Who I am is yet to be determined. But don’t you know, you are the one writing your own story.” Isra laughed and shook her head. “My story is one of starships and space I suppose.” “So tell me, miss Isra, who do you want to be?” Isra motioned. “Lead on, while I tell you who I want to be.” She fell into step beside him as she continued. “I wished to become a pilot. I wanted to pilot anything that flew. It didn’t matter if it was a lowly shuttle, a worker bee, or a starship.” She paused in her story and looked around the promenade. “Looking for something in particular?” Isra shrugged “Not really sure what I am looking for. I … could use a new dress I suppose.” “Because if you see something you like, you know, we can go into the shop. It’s ok.” She smiled slightly “For those off duty functions we have a tendency to have to attend.” “Though I get the sense that your story does not end with you flying.” Isra shook her head. “No that was just a start but even that won’t ever happen. I haven’t finished my training to fly. All I do is fiddle around ‘under the hood’ on the shuttles and anything else they allow me to.” Her voice taking on a tone of sadness. “It’s not hard to finish. I could teach, or perhaps Lieutenant Williams would. He taught me to fly on Mars.” A smile crossed her face briefly. “Maybe, I hate to bother him though.” she knew she was making excuses and turned her attention to the window before her, hoping the subject would change. “Plus he’s your boss so he should want you to grow professionally.” “I am sure he does, ….. “ her voice quieter now. “But I am not sure I am ..” letting her words trail off. “Not sure what?” Santiago stopped walkings. “Isra, que te pasa? I mean, whats wrong?” Isra took a deep great and turned towards Santiago. “I’m afraid, ..” she bit her lip before continuing “I know what I want, what I have wanted since I was small. But ….. “ she closed her eyes against the tears welling up “ I lost my mentor, my best friend to a crash. I ….. Don’t want to be responsible for others lives. “ She knew indirectly she was caring for those pilots who took those shuttles and fighters she worked on, but piloting anything larger than a shuttle scared her. The image of the wreckage, the bodies had been hard for her to get over, even enough to do the job she now is so good at. “Well, have you thought about talking about that with a counselor?” Isra shrugged “I have. Long ago.” she paused and looked up into his face. “I thought I was past all this. I’m sorry.” “Rumor has it we have a new head counselor, she’s part betazoid, part caitian. She looks betazoid, except she has cat ears and a tail. Kind of cool if you ask me.” “I will … maybe … get with her.” Her words said with some reluctance. She frowned and tapped her toe on the metal plating beneath their feet. “I’m sorry I am such a downer on our little shopping trip.” she motioned to the window. “Mind if I stop in here and check out this dress?” really hoping he’d get the hint she wanted to change the subject. “Well, I don’t think I will look good in a dress, but sure.” Isra laughed, and shook her head. “Not for you.” she looked him up and down and shook her head. “Well …… maybe.” she grabbed his hand. Come on, …” “Ummm, ok.” Santiago let himself get dragged into the store. This was definitely not how he planned to spend his day, but sometimes, sometimes it's the things you do for others that fills the day with joy, and Santiago knew that no matter what he would try and make the most of it. (reply none) (posted by Will and Kathleen) (USS Exeter – Main Engineering – Ensign Janice Hammerfield – 1134) “If you are sure?” “Lay it on me,” she said spinning round in her seat and standing up. “Okay. Well I am looking for the one half of a quantum field focus controller. For some reason logistics in their infinite wisdom decided to transport parts for the slipstream drive in two separate parts rather then whole. I sent Crewman Matheson down to Cargo bay 3 to find one half I am going to Cargo bay 1 as that`s where the computer says it is.” "If that’s where it says it is lets go take a look – quicker we find it the quicker it gets sorted,” she reached behind her pushing a few buttons to lock the controls before standing up, “ Show original message "It’s a bit of a change having to get used to something more technical, but I think I’m getting the hang of it. I’ve really been spending most of time so far going over technical manuals. Stripping down the weapons systems is the easy parts but everything else still takes that little bit longer.” (Reply Vosi) Reaching the lift the both got in and directed to cargo bay one before politely turning the conversation back to him, “What about you Mister Vosi? How have things been for you?” (Reply Vosi, any) (Posted by Adam) (USS Exeter – Security - Ensign Janice Hammerfield - 1200) It was taking a little while for Janice to get used to the layout of the ship but she managed to get herself about without too much effort. The trick was trying to get into the habit of remembering new decks to go to. It wasn’t long ago that these areas of the ship were her home but now that she had moved over to engineering it felt awkward for her to step in. A fleeting feeling of betrayal crept over her before she brushed it aside as a silly notion. “Hello?” she looked about for someone to get hold of, (reply any in security) “Sorry I’m new here – Janice,” she said taking the metal case off her back she had been lugging around all day with her, “Im just popping in to register this in the armoury for safe keeping.” Typing in a short code on the side of the container she opened it to show her phaser rifle. Scared and scraped showed its use and small modifications were visibly noticeable on it. It was an older model but it still checked out. “Its the first chance ive had to come in today,” (reply any in security) Hide original message (posted by Adam) (USS Exeter – Deck 8 - Security section- NPC sec.tac. Ensign T'kel - 1202) “Hello?” she looked about for someone to get hold of, T'kell emerged from the brig area. " Hello, how may I help you ?" The vulcan officer asked. “Sorry I’m new here – Janice,” she said to him, taking a metal case off her back. “Im just popping in to register this in the armoury for safe keeping.” Typing in a short code on the side of the container she opened the case and showed him “Its the first chance I've had to come in today,” T'kel looked at the weapon. " I see you have modified the weapon. May I take a look at it ?" He asked. ( reply Hammerfield) Truly fascinated with the modifications. He held the phaser rifle up and mock aimed it away from her and quickly checked the sight. Bringing it out of the aiming position. He detached the barrel assembly with a single fluid motion and reattached it then examined the stock. " Your modifications have offset the balance in the rifle, by my estimate a total of 10 percent to compensate for the additional focus emitters in the barrel assembly housing detachment ? " He inquired. ( reply Hammerfield) " This is a most impressive weapon. It is within code. I will register the rifle for you. While on board you are permitted to use it in the firing range here on Deck 8. If you would like I can put in a request for a secure storage unit to be placed in your quarters. This request could take several days to obtain the proper authorization or you can keep it here. " ( reply Hammerfield) (Reply Hammerfield) (Posted by Rob Davis Npc Ensign T'kel) (USS Exeter – Deck 8 - Security section- Ensign Janice Hammerfield - 1203) T'kel looked at the weapon. " I see you have modified the weapon. May I take a look at it ?" He asked. "Of course,” she replied with some pride taking it out of the case aiming it to the floor. She made sure the safeties were on and then rotated the grip round for him to hold "Your modifications have offset the balance in the rifle, by my estimate a total of 10 percent to compensate for the additional focus emitters in the barrel assembly housing detachment ? " He inquired. “Indeed – its offset on purpose both for practical and technical reasons,” she looks at him sensing that a short explanation like that would not satisfy the Vulcan. Tugging her uniform she rolled up her sleeve showing a scar up her arm, “Its a lot easier to rebalance a rifle than it is myself. Plus it does mean that if anyone tries to shoot it who just uses the sights probably wont hit what they are aiming for.” Moving closer she pointed to a few bits as he held it, “This is more a tool now than a weapon. This toggle here rotates the internal lens and power settings through a small cycle of functions.” She flicked a small nub on the side, “Normal fire, flare, welding, cutting, heater. Only issue with her is that she chews through power. You learn to live it with.” She pulled the bottom of the hand grip down and pulled out a small power cell, “that ones probably got another month before it gives up the ghost and needs replaced.” Show original message "Its quite alight I prefer that it was stored here properly. Ill be down to visit her regularly on the firing range for sure,” she nodded to him and closed the case to take with her while she left the rifle. Sliding the power cells back in she looked at him, “Fancy giving her a shot?” (Reply T’kel) “You know I never got you name... mister..?” (Reply T’kel) “T’kel,” she lent back and thought for a moment, “Ah.. I thought we had a T’ekl in our academy class but I think it was a T’kall. She stopped again for a few seconds, “Actually thinking about it now maybe he was Klingon – the name kinda sounds like it – move guttural in sound,” (Reply T’kel) “Sorry im rambling a bit,” letting out a small sigh she leant back against a wall and tried to change the topic, “So where’s the best place to be in the off hours here? Nothing quite like getting the insider knowledge early.” (Reply T’kel) (Posted by Adam) (USS Exeter – Deck 8 - Security section - NPC Sec/tac. Ensign T'kel -1204) "Its quite alight I prefer that it was stored here properly. Ill be down to visit her regularly on the firing range for sure,” she nodded to him and closed the case to take with her while she left the rifle. Sliding the power cells back in she looked at him, “Fancy giving her a shot?” He raised his eyebrow and straightened his posture. " I am unable to at the moment. I have duties to attend to. Ensign." T'kel responded, but deep down on the inside he was itching to give it a go. “You know I never got you name... mister..?” she asked. " My name is T'kel " “T’kel,” She paused. “Ah.. I thought we had a T’ekl in our academy class but I think it was a T’kall. She paused again. “Actually thinking about it now maybe he was Klingon – the name kinda sounds like it – move guttural in sound,” He looked at her with his eyebrow raised not saying a word. Letting her ramble on. “Sorry im rambling a bit,”she leant back against a wall “So where’s the best place to be in the off hours here? Nothing quite like getting the insider knowledge early.” He folded his arms behind his back. " Although I am not an information desk. I can tell you that most of the crew seems to enjoy time below us on Deck 9, also known as the Rec Deck. They offer a wide array of entertainment. Holodecks , holosuites. A casual bar and eatery known as the Nine and Dine. There is also the more formal establishment known as the starlight lounge." ( reply Hammerfield) " Humans typically. Don't ask what Vulcans do in our spare time. They find our answers...unappealing or lacking of interest. " T'Kel replied. ( reply Hammerfield) He took a breath " I meditate, plan the events of the following day and reflect on the events that have transpired on the current day. I clean my quarters...I also spend time practicing hand to hand combat fighting styles. Those fighting exercises are performed on the holodeck." ( reply Hammerfield) ( reply Hammerfield) ( posted by Rob Davis npc Ensign T'kel) (USS Exeter – Deck 8 - Security section- Ensign Janice Hammerfield – 1205) He folded his arms behind his back. " Although I am not an information desk. I can tell you that most of the crew seems to enjoy time below us on Deck 9, also known as the Rec Deck. They offer a wide array of entertainment. Holodecks , holosuites. A casual bar and eatery known as the Nine and Dine. There is also the more formal establishment known as the starlight lounge." "You might not be but it is appreciated,” she smiled ay him, “The Starlight lounge sounds nice – i think ill need to pay it a visit. Do you go there much in your free time?” " Humans typically. Don't ask what Vulcans do in our spare time. They find our answers...unappealing or lacking of interest. " T'Kel replied. She furrowed her brow a bit in reply, "Well that may be so but who knows you might have some super secret hind interests? Let me start then. I spend my free time on the range with my rifle, some 3D chess, some jogging and you cant beat a good holo novel every now and again,” Show original message “See,” she tapped him gently on the shoulder, “That wasn’t to bad. To be honest I rather prefer forgetting than reflection most of the time. I might just overthink things if I do. Close quarter stuff is pretty nice. It been a while since I had to use those skills. I guess one hopes never to use some of the skills we are trained with?” It was more a hypothetical thought than an actual question (reply T’kel) “Indeed – well thank you for taking my rifle in and giving me the quick rundown of the ship,” she smiled and sorted her hair moving a strand from her eye before going for the exit, “maybe on day ill catch you in that training and knock you down a few times?” (reply T’kel) Sticking her head past the doorway so it was the only thing T’kel could see she gave a small wink, “We’ll see – Thanks again!” her head quickly shot out vanishing from view. (reply T’kel iyw) (Posted by Adam) (USS Exeter – Deck 8 - Security section- NPC Sec/tac Ensign T'kel – 1206) " See,That wasn’t too bad. To be honest I rather prefer forgetting than reflection most of the time. I might just overthink things if I do. Close quarter stuff is pretty nice. It's been a while since I had to use those skills. I guess one hopes never to use some of the skills we are trained with?” " I find it rather... invigorating to keep one's skills honed and ready to use. Otherwise what was the point of learning them in the first place." T'kel responded. “Indeed – well thank you for taking my rifle in and giving me the quick rundown of the ship,” she smiled and sorted her hair moving a strand from her eye before going for the exit, “maybe one day I'll catch you in that training and knock you down a few times?” " You are welcome to try Ensign Hammerfield. I assure you I will take it easy on you if that day were to arrive. " He said. Trying to be...friendly. She peeked her head back in. “We’ll see – Thanks again!” her head quickly shot out vanishing from view. He raised his eyebrow and looked down at her rifle. He picked it up and walked it to the secure storage area. ( reply Not needed) ( posted by Rob Davis NPC Ensign T'kel) (USS Exeter – deck 5 – Quarters – aCOO Ensign Paul Sleeford 12:30) Pulling the jacket lower, Sleeford paused and made sure his tie was straight and cantered on his shirt buttons, for the first time in twelve years he’d dressed in something other then a uniform. The dark purple suit, white shirt and pale lilac tie, wasn’t going to win any fashion awards, but it was comfortable and fitted well, along with hiding his scars. The last session with the counsellor he’d mentioned the feelings he’d been having over the past few days, he didn’t feel any different then four days ago, the only difference was the loose of a leg. Swallowing he pressed the door chime and waited. (Reply Jamison) (Deck 5 - Katies Quarters - aCOO Ensign (sg) Paul Sleeford) Paul waited while Katie finished getting ready. As she returned to the lounge area he smiled and held out his elbow. “Shall we?” Walking out of the room and through the corridors Paul nodded to various members of the crew as the past, approaching the docking port Paul waited in line with the rest of the ‘escapees’ running for DS9, as his turn came up he caught the look for the security officers on duty, raising his eyebrows, daring them to say a word. Walking into the foyer of the pylon transport arm, Paul glanced back before the door closed and saw the pair with their heads together, he knew by the time the car had hit the promenade the gossip would be round the ship. (USS Exeter – deck 5 – Quarters – MO Katie Jamison & aCOO Ensign Paul Sleeford 12:46) Katie looked at herself in the mirror and frowned at a stubborn wrinkle in her dress. It was one of the few items of clothing she had that was not either a uniform or Klingon. She smoothed it out with her hands and then turned from side to side checking for others. This was her first date, in what felt like forever. Was she ready for that scene again, she wondered. The sound of the chime caused her to jump and brought her out of her thoughts. "Enter" She turned towards the door as it slid aside. Walking into Katie's quarters he saw her standing in front of a mirror in a calf length pale blue dress. Smiling, he tilted his head to the side. “You look stunning. The colour suits you. I booked a table at the Bajorian place on the promenade, I thought Quarks would be too busy and noisy” (Replies none) (DS9 Promenade - aCOO Ensign (sg) Paul Sleeford 12:55) Walking onto the promenade Paul paused as the throng of people moved around him, walking past Quarks towards the smaller Bajorian restaurant. Walking through the door he waited while the waiter checked his reservation. Walking towards their table, Paul paused to pull the chair out for Katie. Seating himself Paul waited while the waiters brought the menus and the glasses. Looking through the food items Paul spotted something he’d wanted to try for a long time. Hasperat, he’d heard the rumours where that if it was well made it would blow your mind, literally. Sitting there looking at Katie across the table he smiled. “So tell me about Katie Jamison, why did she end up in Starfleet ?” (reply Jamison) (posted by Alistair) -- (Posted by Kathleen & Alistair) USS Exeter – Captain's ready room- CO Lieutenant commander Trip Williams & CTO/3O Lieutenant Ravok-1302) Ravok chimed The captain's door. In his hand was a PADD. With the proper notification of bringing family aboard. “Enter.” He walked in and approached Trips desk. " Sir, I have come to provide notification of my intent to bring family on board the Exeter, effective immediately." “Your step mother joining us?” Trip said with a chuckle. Ravok handed the PADD over to Trip. He was more nervous about his captain finding out about this new edition to his life than he was Keira finding out. Ravok knew word would soon spread, but it was a situation he didn't want to explain over and over again. " My daughter Sir. My daughter." Ravok said. “Your daughter? Since when have you had a daughter. Does Keira know.” Trip didn’t know whether to joke or put on a serious face. " Since stardate 2443.11.17 . Although I just found out a few hours ago. It's a rather...awkward story." Ravok paused and looked at the floor. " And yes Keira knows, she was the first person I told." “I don’t think I need to stress that I went on a limb and trusted the two of you not to let your personal lives affect work when I named you third officer. Do I need to be worried about anything?” Ravok took a deep breath, not sure what to say, but decided to try to explain himself the best he could. " Keira was upset...initially. The concept of me having a child is a reminder to her that although she planned for me to be her first .." He looked at Trip " You know , The news of me having a child was a reminder that unlike her ,I'm not a virgin." Trip just sat and listened. " After the initial reaction of shock, Keira went right into a supportive mood. She took the initiative and set my daughters room up. Went through our quarters and properly removed or secured all of our bladed weapons. I didn't even ask to do any of that , but like Ash supports you, Keira supports me." He said with a smile. "and you know Keira has to be supportive if she moved all of her knives." Ravok laughed half heartedly . Although the laugh was half hearted. He just couldn't shake the sense of guilt for not being there for his daughter. “But unlike Ash, both of you are in the chain of the command. Look, I’m not going to ask you to not bring your kid on board, I believe in family. But I can’t let any possible distraction in your personal lives become a problem on this ship.” Ravok raised an eyebrow. " I will not let distractions in my personal life interfere with my duties." “I’m not gonna lie Ravok, had I known that you would be introducing a child into your personal relationship, I probably would not have named you Third Officer. As your friend, I support you. Trust me, I’d have my kid, will have my kid.” Trip paused. ~Do have my kid.~ “As close to me as possible. But As your commanding officer, I’m going to need both of you to act like adults and not let any potential domestic squabbles interfere with your responsibilities.” Ravok felt a slight frustration with being Trip even suggesting that he would allow such things to interfere with the overall well being of the ship and its day to day operations. “I’m already filing out contingencies for if Ailynn and I are both incapacitated that you aren’t directly under Merek’s command if she has to take command of the ship. This…. I mean I’m happy for you man. Like having recently found out about my own paternal situation… Ash being pregnant and all, like I’m thrilled for you. But %$#& man, you are not making my job easy.” " I didn't ask for this Sir. But I am a father nonetheless. Trust me when I say it wasn't my intention to make your job any harder than it already is. But Sir If I may ask you a question regarding the performances of Lieutenant Merek and myself? " Trip nodded. " Have either of us ever let our relationship interfere with our duties before ?" Ravok asked. "First off, we've only been out for a month. On Mars you worked in separate complexes. So there isn't enough data for me to answer because its a separate situation. Plus a surprise child complicates things. It's an unknown variable." "Sir, Like every couple we have issues but there is a difference between us and everyone else . We are Romulan, and with that comes an inherent sense of pride. As much as try to run from it ...I can't. This sense of pride is even more prevalent in Lieutenant Merek. With her father being former military and her mother being former starfleet she has been forged in the fires of duty. She holds her true feelings back daily. Where most see a stern and straight faced stoic woman. I see her, the real her. The woman who underneath everything is afraid, unconfident and loving. " Ravok took a deep breath. " However, your concerns are not unwarranted. I have always supported your personal and command decisions. If there is ever a time where you believe the domestic issues of my relationship with Lieutenant Merek are affecting the day to day operations of this ship or putting anyone here at risk...I will resign." "Look. Your kid deserves a family. But be careful. I'm assigning you a small unused enlisted quarters. very spartan and bare. If either of you need space for a while go there. Don't let issues linger. I'm also ordering counseling with our new counselor for the both of you to ease into this new, umm reality. I'll let you tell keira." " She will understand. I am sure of it. " Ravok insisted. "Lastly in the event that I or Lynn are not available and Keira must assume responsibility as acting captain. Like shit has hit the proverbial $%#@&%$ fan, I'm dead, Lynn's a vegetable kinda thing. You will be acting second officer and Billy will become acting first officer. Is that clear?" Ravok nodded his head. " Yes Sir. " He thought for a moment . " Sir, to ease any stress you may experience because of my sudden and unexpected situation. I would happily step down as third officer allowing someone more qualified than I am to assume the role. I am not suggesting how you run your ship. I am simply offering a more stress free option. " “If there was someone more qualified they’d already be it. Foxglove has been transferred. Which means you have the most command experience of everyone else.” " Understood Sir." “Now get the hell out of my office, permission granted.” Trip said with a smile. Ravok stood up and went to turn around but stopped. "By the way, congratulations on being a father. Well a father to be. I'm sure you and Ash are gonna be fine parents." “Dismissed before you make me blush.” ( reply None ) ( posted by Rob and Will) (DS9 - Quarks - CSO Lt JG Erin Cortez & FO Lt(sg) Ailynn Bracken- 1334) Sitting at a table on the promenade, Erin leant back in her chair and sighed happily. She felt different and she knew it showed. People were smiling at her as they went past. Taking a sip of her drink, a memory from earlier flashed into her mind and she smiled. ~Thankyou Nix. That was…. Amazing ~ Ailynn had strode slowly along the promenade, her legs swinging with a carefree, easy pace. A lot had happened in the last few days, and she was only now coming to terms with some of it. Reaching a bend, she saw Erin sitting, happily at a table, hoping that she wouldn’t mind the intrusion into her obvious happiness, Ailynn walked over, and sat down, a look of amusement on her face. “I have seen any number of looks on that pretty little face of yours.” Ailynn quipped, knowing that she could be cheeky to Erin, “but this is a new one.” Smiling, Erin sat up in her chair, "You mean a happy look rather than moping?" She replied, knowing full well that the woman sat next to her knew her better than anyone on the Exeter crew. "Maybe, just maybe, for the first time in a long time I feel good." She replied with a wink. Ailynn laughed gently. “I’ve seen you smile many times. Seen you laugh, cry, you name it.” Ailynn’s face changed to a genuine look of happiness, “You look genuinely...Prophets I don’t even know what the word is. It’s lovely to see.” "Free?" Erin took a sip of her drink and sighed, "That's the word you're looking for and I am." “Mmm. Not the one I had in mind, but yeah you do.” She motioned to a waitress, held up Erins glass and then two fingers, indicating that she was ordering for both of them. “So why ‘Free’ all of a sudden?” Erin smiled, bit her bottom lip a little and looked at her friend, "I realised that I'd been holding back. So, I let go." Knowing that her friend would only want to know more, Erin turned her gaze away with a smile on her face. Intrigued, Ailynn giggled. “Let go of what? Erin, don't you try to play coy with me.” "Okay fine. You want to know…. I slept with…." As Erin answered her, Ailynn saw a familiar figure walk past, pulling her attention away from the table, as the retreating form was swallowed up into the crowd. “...with…?” Ailynn snapped her attention back to the conversation. Erin smiled, "not saying a word. " she replied in a sing song voice. "So, come on, dirty laundry out in the open…” Blushing a little, Erin took the glass from the waitress and said, "I have no idea what you mean?" Ailynn set her jaw, and widened her eyes, “You are not bloody funny Cortez. Spill it, or you’ll need a new best friend.” She stuck her tongue out playfully. "Okay, fine… I spent some time earlier talking to Tyko Nix. He told me that I could be so much more if I just let go of the bad memories… so I did." “And you let go…” "I let go in a big way. Nix is quite….. " Erin blushed badly, knowing that she didn't have to say it. “Oh is he now. Well.” Ailynn smiled conspiritorialy. “You and Nix…” She winked, teasing her friend, but deep down she was happy for Erin, she hadn’t been exaggerating when she’d said she’d looked happier than she had in a long time. “You brazen hussy.” Ailynn quipped, her eyes twinkling with true friendship. "Takes one to know one missy. " Erin replied with a smile. "In all honesty, it felt so good to just…. " Ailynn squeezed Erin’s hand briefly. “Yeah I know.” "We had fun…. A lot of fun. " Erin winked and held up two fingers, knowing that she would understand. Ailynn sighed. Shaking her head in mock disappointment, before erupting into giggles. “Bad girl. Another?” she motioned at the drink. "Yes Please. I think that, for a first time that will go down in the memory, definitely. " realising that she had just let a personal secret slip out, she sighed. Ailynn smiled gently, but didn’t say anything, lifting her glass and the waitress once more, and motioning for two more. She’d understood what Erin had shared, but was uncertain how to respond. "I said it … well, first time …. And second…" she smirked. “Arguably too much information, but I’m honestly happy for you. Truly.” "Not that I want to sound like a kid but… you can't tell, can you?" Ailynn shook her head. “No you’re good. I’m nearly certain that we all sit around, inane smiles on our faces looking at the pretty rainbows and things that are floating all around us.” She teased. "Oh shut up, window shopper!" Erin replied, playfully hitting her friend. "It's funny because I never expected anything…. Just he was there at the right moment. Don't know where he is now. Woke up and he was gone. Bunch of Roses and a note saying be who you were meant to be. Kind of enigmatic. Almost secret agent like." Ailynn smiled. “Yeah. Enigmatic.” she thanked the waitress again, and passed Erin’s drink over. Taking the glass, Erin took a long sip. Ailynn shrugged. “To each their own. Now are you just going to morse code the gamma quadrant about this one?” she chuckled. "You aren't going to let that one go are miss Brackeen?" Ailynn erupted into laughter. “I am so lucky to have you as a friend.” She smiled warmly. “Seriously I mean it.” Tilting her head slightly, Erin looked at her, "I… haven't done anything. Well, unless you count Morse coding the name of a certain Exeter pool attendant…" “All things considered. Let’s not talk about that again.” "Your wish is my command!" Erin responded with an over the top salute. Shaking her head again, Ailynn smiled. She hadn’t been exaggerating. Erin was one of the only people, except Ashlyn perhaps; that truly truly understood her, she saw the girl that she truly was underneath her numerous layers. Lifting her glass she gently clinked it against the side of Erin’s. "To new beginnings, new horizons and some fun along the way." (Reply none) (Posted by Jackie and Mark) (USS Exeter - Deck 3-Merek/ Shara quarters 2O/CEO Lieutenant Keira Merek& CTO/3O Lieutenant Ravok- 1342) Ravok walked into the quarters carrying Rayna with several bags on his back. Filled with belongings of his newly acquired daughter. Venus came charging over happily wagging her tail. " Down! Sit ! " He commanded too the dog. Venus say down. He knelt down Rayna reached out for Venus, the dog began sniffing her hand. " Doggie" Rayna said smiling. " Her name is Venus" Ravok told her. " Vinis" Rayna said as she pet the dog. " No sweetheart." He said laughing. " VEE NUS" He enunciated to her. " Venus" she said clearly. Ravok just stared at her and couldn't help but smile. " That's right , she's a good girl. " Venus leaned her head forward and began sniffing the stuffed Llama tucked in Rayna's arm. Ravok pointed at Venus quickly " Raed'aeu snnta'jhiy iebhe!" He said harshly. Venus backed up and away from them. Rayna looked at Ravok with a look of confusion and began mumbling gibberish and laughing. He looked at her and laughed with her. " I told her dont touch in Romulan." Rayna tilted her head with an inquisitive look streaking across her face as one over eyebrows raised. " Romalan?" " No Romulan. Its a… language . It's what we are. We are Romulan. " he explained pointing his finger back and forth between her and him. " I'm Rayna" She said, tapping herself on the chest. He shook his head and smiled. " Yes you are , but we are also Romulan." He said pointing to her ear and back to his. Keira had heard them enter, from their bedroom. The woosh of the door, Venus and her thundering across the carpeted deck. Ravok's careful explanations. Funny that she could face a rampaging beast or the finest of warriors without blinking, but to face this little girl the woman had to marshall her courage. Keira stepped out from the doorway. " Ravok looked up and across the room to Keira. " Rayna this is…" he paused for a moment not knowing what to say. Every part of him wished this child was from him and her. The word mom would mean so much to this little girl whose mother gave up on her, but he knew that this was a delicate situation for all of them. Thankfully Rayna was used to a revolving cast of characters in her life. With her aunt working security on DS9 Rayna was watched by various people as her aunt tried to maintain her career. "My name is Keira. I live with your dad." Keira said, trying to explain. She didn't know if she understood romantic relationships or the word, girlfriend, so she started with the simplest truth. Rayna looked at her and squinted her eyes. " Romu..lan" she remarked pointing at her own ear while looking at Keira's ears. "Yes, yes I am." Keira said with a grin. He stood up and picked up Rayna's bags. " She's really observant. Doesn't have the best communication skills but picks up on small details quickly. Kora said I was the same way as a child." "Observant? I can work with that," Keira said smiling. "So glad I put away those knives." " Me too." Ravok laughed. "Rayna," Keira said, kneeling down closer to her level. "Do you want to see your room?" Rayna looked back to Ravok. " Go ahead." He said. "It's right this way," the blonde said, offering the girl her hand to lead her. Rayna stepped slowly to Keira and took her hand. Ravok followed behind them but kept a distance. The short trip across the living area lead them to what was previously the guest bedroom. As they approached the door opened automatically. It revealed all the things from her old room that Ravok couldn't physically carry. Things like a bed and a toy chest, and a dresser which made the built in one redundant. Rayna let go of Keira's hand and ran to her bed stopping at its side and began rubbing her hands on the bedding. She turned around and looked at both of them. "Do you like it?" Keira asked. Rayna said nothing, she just offered a smile and threw her stuffed Llama on the bed. "We can have her pick a color at some point. Starship grey isn't every kid's favorite color." " The wall panels in my room as a child were different colors, not out of artistry but because my room was originally a storage room for backup food processing units. Kora saw that the room was made safer for me by using spare pieces of the outer hull to cover some exposed plasma conduits. Half of my room was solid duranium. " He laughed. "Does she have a favorite color?" Keira asked. ~We should know that, right?~ " Let's ask her. " Ravok suggested as he stepped into the room. " Rayna , what is your favorite color?" She looked at him " Color ?" " Yes color, blue ,yellow, pink , green...colors" He responded, giving her examples. She shook her head. " No " She didn't understand the question. Keira picked up a PADD on the coffee table and keyed in a sequence for a test screen which had a series of colors across the top half showing all primary and secondary colors of light, white and black. "Maybe this will work." Rayna followed Keira with her eyes. "Rayna," Keira started. "Do you like any of these colors?" She worked her way across the common visible spectrum starting with red and working her way to violet saying each color in turn as she pointed to it. " Color. " she said as she touched the color orange on the screen. " That one" She proclaimed. "Orange? Khoey?" {Northern dialect Romulan for orange} Keira asked with a smile. "Tomorrow your room will be orange." " Ok" she said jumping onto the bed. "I'm assuming her human family hadn't taught her Rihannsu, any harm in starting?" " No, her aunt didn't teach her. Romulans were a sore subject in that family. " Ravok said, looking a the floor. "Between the two of us we could probably teach her quite a few languages, though we can keep it as simple as you'd like." " It would be great if she learned. There is so much that is left unsaid." Said Ravok "Unfortunately I have to get back to work, I have much to finish up, I rearranged some of my schedule so I could meet you here at this time. I should be back in time for dinner though." " We'll be here." She gave her boyfriend a parting kiss and waved bye to Rayna before she walked out the door. Rayna waved bye to Keira as she walked away. When Keira left Ravok looked at Rayna. " Well it's you and me." ( reply none needed) (Posted by Robert and Todd) (Deep Space Nine - Quark’s- Exeter CO, Lt. Commander Trip Williams and Illuminar FO, Lt. SG, Sienna Williams-Verin -1800) It had been a long couple weeks for Trip since the Exeter had left Mars. She had been through a lot, seen a lot, taken some damage, but held her own in a fight. She was a good ship with a good crew. Still, Trip was looking forward to a bit of Shore leave, with one of the people he had missed most in the Galaxy. Whether it had been his time in the Alpha Quadrant or his quick jaunt to the Gamma Quadrant, he had missed his sister and was looking forward to spending some quality time with her. He had told Ash to not expect him home until late. Or as he put it, “I’m going to go spend some time with my sister, I could be back in three hours, I could be back tomorrow, either way, she has my undivided attention until she looks me in the face and says she’s bored with me.” Ash being the understanding person that she was, totally got it. Trip was off duty in his civilian clothes, and for the next while, he was so much Captain Trip Williams, he was Trip Williams, brother to Sienna and that was how it was going to be. He had reserved a private table in Quark’s bar, the most famous establishment on DS9. He waited patiently for her to arrive, and when she did, he ran up to his sister like an excited puppy, pulled her into a giant hug and twirled her around. Sienna had debated where to do this reunion. It needed to be someplace Lynn was not, which precluded her from going aboard the Exeter. Being in close proximity to Lynn made it feel as if razor blades were slicing around her heart. She looked different. Less trace of her earth side and more of the Betazoid. She had told him about the Q encounter but had not let him see how different the experience had left her. She was dressed slightly differently than normal. She was still wearing Betazoid fashions but they covered any place her skin might touch anything. The gown was way more modest and it was not replicated, it was the real deal. And she wore gloves, thick silk gloves and no jewelry. She had rings under her eyes. Her lips looked bruised. “SY!!!!” He shouted, “OMG, I’m so stoked to see you.” Trip had picked her up in one of his famous bear hugs and spun her around. She had anticipated this, which was part of why she was dressed the way she was. It still caused her to stiffen against the flood of impressions that she expected, but relaxed when she was not flooded by memories and insights. Placing her down, he smiled, “Sorry, I swear I’ve only had one beer while I waited. You look great.” She swatted him on the arm, "You can not lie to me. I look very different and I look as exhausted as I feel. Lynn is too close." She whispered that last bit. "I was hoping the silk would insulate me in more ways than one." She yawned, something in her reconnecting with the other part of her, centering her, and causing her to relax in spite of the absolute agony of the presence of Lynn Bracken. "Tell me there is some place private we can talk?" She was unsure how Trip had changed, or if the layers of silk would do anything to block their telepathy. She was surprised that their bond had snapped back into focus so easily. But theirs was forever, and maybe if she could avoid Lynn, she could avoid going back to square zero. “I mean, we could see if one of the Holosuites are open. Other than that, I mean my ready room is pretty private. We could go there.” He paused, “Don’t worry she’s not on board at the moment. Not quite sure where she is, maybe on the planet. But those are two ready options.” Sienna sighed softly, "I have not unpacked on the Illuminar. I could not find entirely silk shoes, so I am not sure what I would pick up on the Exeter. As for a holosuite, do you trust that there are not listening devices ?" “Why?” he paused, his face instantly going to worry, “What’s wrong?” She was not sure what he knew, she had not told him most of it. "Why have I not unpacked? It doesn't feel like home. It doesn't have you." She sounded like an idiot. Trip looked at his sister waiting for her to make a decision. She was dressed more elegantly than he had ever seen her. He almost felt embarrassed for how he was dressed. Black slacks, a red t-shirt, and a brown leather jacket. “Hey, sorry if I’m dressed too casual.” "Dressed for comfort, not looks." She waved the comment away. The gloves were the oddest part. "At least here, here there are so many people, none of them staying in one spot that I am only picking up very brief surface impressions. So that at least is working. Any Betazoid wines aboard the Exeter?" Switching to telepathy, ::There is something I want to try too. I want to read the Exeter, some spot deep inside where not a lot of people go, while linked with you. Curious to see what I can feel of Dad there. If you want to?:: She had no idea when Q was going to remove her powers, but she hoped it was soon. This experiment about reading the Exeter was the one thing she truly wanted to try before that occurred. ::Sure, we can do that in a bit. Do you mind if we just sit here for a moment. This is one of the first times I’ve left the Exeter since we left Mars. Almost a month on that ship. Kind of want to do some people watching. But as soon as I finish my drink, I promise, we can go. Is that ok, or is this super urgent, because I can chug this if I need to.:: She relaxed and smiled at him, the first true smile since she had arrived. "Not super important to be done now, but before…" she took a deep breath, "Did not answer me about wine?" She flagged down one of the skimply dressed waitresses. "I need a glass of a non earth wine, not replicated, not synthehol. Preferably Betazoid, vulcan or Tellarite. White, red or purple. Non terran ciders are fine, but beers or lagers from any culture are not." She thought a moment. "Snacks would be nice too." She regarded Trip with a twinkle in her mischievous eyes, "Oh. And my brother is paying. He has the better job." “I guess I am paying.” he said with a smile, “Put in on my tab. But as for the snacks, if one of those can be some mozzarella sticks and onion rings, that’d be great. You know if I’m paying.” He said with a smile. The waitress nodded and went to put in the order. “So…” he said trying to find his words. “Let’s not talk business. I just want to have a chat with my sister and just enjoy your company, is that alright? No ranks, no uniforms, just Sy and Trip hanging out.” She grinned at that, "No ranks?" She laughed. "Since when has rank come between us?" What had come between them was Lynn. And her family. Not rank. “Speaking of having to pay. I had to give my Yeoman new quarters, she was watching Layla for the night a few nights ago, and Layla somehow managed to clog the toilet and caused a massive mess. You know they say pets resemble their owners, and given how chaotic she can be, I think they’re right.” Sy put her silk covered hand over her mouth and tried not to laugh. "How, what why? What did she DO?" "Clogged the toilet using a stuffed animal, no idea why." “How’s my, ‘arch nemesis’ Kenna?” "Hah. Kenna loves the room. She is lonely though, only one human to torment with her antics. Sekal plans for us to go back to Mars for a bit, and I am considering bringing a kitten to keep Kenna company. " Oh she wanted to ask about the birds she had gotten for Lynn, the last true gift she had given her Imzadi. "Thinking about going home to the ranch for the 5 days or so of leave. Some things happened and I want my Daddy." She tried not to cry as her wine arrived. Pulling out a tricorder, she analyzed it, trusting nothing and grinned seeing it was a vulcan white. "Oh! I got you something!" She pulled out a brown earthenware flask and presented it to him. "Bajoran Temple honey meade. It sounded good but structurally too close to Earths for me to try. I was hoping you could try it and I could feel it through you like when we were teens." It felt like half a lifetime ago. "That would be great." Trip said with a smile. "I wish I could join you on Mars, but we've got a week on DS9, then off to Cardassia for a week. Probably won't get back to Mars for a month. Please give my best to mom and dad." Sy frowned lightly, "Why Cardassia?" She had an idea but was not positive. “Diplomatic, just touching base. It will be a week, just saying hello. Dad’s having me facilitate the Academy entrance exam for some applicants. Since we were close. He asked me to swing by.” "Oh. See. That is not what I was thinking. But thats work, not fun." She laughed a little but it seemed forced. "Hey, are you ok?" She shook her head a little, "No. Not really. But this is not the place to talk about it." She snagged a mozzarella stick and dredged it in the marinara then stuffed the entire thing into her mouth to give her time to think of a way to answer. ::Anywhere but here Trip.:: She knew he was not fond of his empathic abilities but she missed the way he sounded when they talked. ::Here is not private enough.:: A rueful shrug. "Bet your quarters are a disaster zone." She teased. “No I actually keep them pretty clean. I’m all domesticated now. This wild wolf is now a house dog.” Trip said with a laugh. "I guess getting married would do that?" She looked like she was about to cry for a moment before she got control of her emotions again. “My ready room on the other hand...Well my desk is just covered in paperwork.” "Mine too. Sekal acknowledges I am much better at sorting red tape than he is… most of the time." She twirled the glass in her hand, swirling the wine before she took another sip and stole another mozzarella stick. He could have all the onion rings he wanted, she preferred french fries drowned in bacon and cheddar cheese. Actually truth be told Sy had not met a cheese she did not like. "Heard from Sky. She is thinking about transferring her commission from the VDF to SF. Said if we are exploring again, she was technically a Williams too and wants in on the fun. I wonder what Mom will say to that. Probably something like, it's about damned time Skyler Williams-Verin." Sy did a good job imitating Sophie at her primest. ::Well, where do you want to talk?:: Sy's face lit up in delight. ::Anywhere. Just someplace private. Things I need to talk about that are private.:: Some pain behind the words. ::Well why don’t we got my ready room. It’s quiet and I can put on a do not disturb function. Unless that is still too public.:: She shook her head, ::No, it will do. Maybe I can tidy it for you.:: A hint of laughter there. She had always tidied up after him. ::Wherever we go, I can tell this is bugging you immensely, lets go now,:: Trip then flagged down the waiter with the International sign of, Check please. Sy took a moment to finish her wine. It was a decent vintage, but not excellent. "I miss Mom." She spoke aloud, then stood up to follow her brother. But first she dumped the remaining snacks into a togo box. Maybe they could find some pizza too… ::Sorry to kill your people watching for the great universe novel:: More teasing from his brat of a sister. ::Sy….Like I’ve always told you, no matter how far apart we are in the galaxy, and let me tell you, I spent a few days in the Gamma Quadrant, so we were pretty far apart, but no matter how far apart we are, I will always be there for you, even if it interrupts my people watching.:: She laughed at that, ::We can people watch together later, find me a hot girl for a one night stand?:: (reply none) (posted by Will and Mel) (USS Exeter - Starlight lounge - Dir R&SE Ashlyn Williams and ACFO Ens(sg) Ronnie Winters - 1800) Ashlyn’s eyes had fallen into a deep smile. She’d known Ronnie for months now, but since the revelation about her origins, and the devastating truth behind them, Ashlyn had found herself pulling the other girl deeply into her family circle. She was still uncertain in what capacity they all thought of each other, but she’d always wanted a younger sister to gossip with and whisper secrets, even to argue with about who the red top with the sparkles belonged to. She’d managed to schedule herself and Ronnie some girl time, Trip being off with his sister, so She’d decided to take Ronnie out to lunch, and perhaps hit the spa for a treatment later. "You ok there ma, err Ash." “I’m sorry, my mind was drifting.” She turned to the waiter. “I’ll have the stuffed mushroom starter and then the seared Wild Bajoran Venison. Thank you. Ronnie? What are you having? Don’t be shy it's on me. Perks of the job, I get to taste all the new menu.” Ronnie laughed. "Of course its on you in a cashless society. But would you be as willing to pay at Quark's?" Ronnie continued to chuckle. "Of course I would.'Fluffy Rabbit's bad fur day' did well through my Ferenghi publishers." "I'll have the Denobulan eel sushi and a bowl of spicy noodles. And a glass of bourbon." The waiter took down the order and left. "Ummm what should I call you when it's just us." Ashlyn smiled warmly, the imitation candle light flickered against her eyes, and her fathers ear jewellery. "I was up all night wondering about this, and I'm no closer to figuring it all out. What makes you comfortable? 'Mom' makes me feel ancient." "I don't know. I mean I'd like to call you mom. But maybe I'll think about something more hip." "Conversely I can't begin to imagine your pain, growing up longing to call someone 'Mom'. I've seen the same in Ailynn's eyes since I met her at school." "It's been hard being around you and having to be distant. But here we are. " "I know sweetie; and you never need to be ever again. You have a family, one that adored you anyway. You can come to me about anything, at any time. Babysit your brother whenever." "I'd like that." Ash laughed. "You can help look after your crazy neurotic cousin too." She smiled deeply, and warm, resting her hand on Ronnie's. "Just like you have been." "Sorry if I made you feel old.," Shaking her head gently she replied. "You didn't. Its okay. Mum and Aimee are only a couple of years apart. They're closer than any other two people I know." "Bracken's curse." "Foods coming. The sushi is amazing." A glow reached her heart. Her family had grown yet again. "What about Dad...I mean Trip. He seemed pretty angry with me. I've kinda been avoiding him." "Thank you." She said to the waitress, as she put the plates down. Ashlyn cut one of the mushrooms and chewed briefly before swallowing. "Trip...doesn't like surprises. Occupational hazard I suppose. Surprises can get people killed. He'll be fine. Just processes in a different way. He's no less happy than I am." "Are you sure?" "Talk to him. Take him to the holodeck and play catch or something. How's the Eel?" "Delicious." She said. "I mean I know how weird it is. Finding out that you have a future daughter who is your age. I mean yeah its $@#%&¥ up." Ashlyn sighed, but smiled. "Watch the mouth dear. Polite company." She winked. "But….gosh seeing you guys in love. It makes me So happy." "We were dating for a few months before we realised we were dating. Our movie nights, and takeaways back on Mars you know? Poor Trip couldn't get a date with the base hotties because they all thought he was seeing me. Which, it turned out he was, but we were too daft to notice." "I know. I umm. I encouraged him to ask you on the day I first met you all." "Outrageous. Cheater." Ashlyn laughed. "Kind of self serving huh?" "Playing it safe I think. Covering all your bases." "Lot of good it did me in the end." She said with a laugh. "I'm glad you did. The last year has made me happier than I ever dreamed about. So, on the subject of dating?" "What about it?" "Don't be coy. Did you speak to Gabe?" Ashlyn said. Nodding a thanks to the waitress who was removing the now empty plates. "Not since… well you know. He's been busy." "Well. Don't leave it too long. As you know, the unexpected can happen and suddenly you're out of time." "Me out of time, never," Ronnie replied with a laugh. "Poor choice of words perhaps. Sorry Ronnie." Ash giggled. "You're as impossible as your father is." "That actually makes me happy to hear that. Don't know why. It was hard growing up without you." "Its worrying. The thought that something has changed timewise already. Even more upsetting the thought that all we ever were were pictures, and names." "Yeah." A thought erupted in her mind, a single, awful thought. " Oh Ronnie." Tears welled up suddenly in Ashlyn's eyes. She was glad that they were in an out of the way corner. "I failed you." "Except it wasn't you. It was you, but a different you. I mean, you're a different person than my mum was. You're my mum, but not. Its all still weird. But she didn't fail me. Had she not left me with Gran, I'd be dead. And you never failed me." "I hope not. I hope that this me is all that you dreamed of. You've had enough upset. I hope that we can live up to those dreams." "Can I ask for a stupid favor?" "Of course, anything." Ashlyn answered. "Something I've been wanting for the last 20 years." Puzzled Ash nodded. "What is it?" "Do you think after dinner, you could umm… read me a story?" The question took her by surprise, but she could see hints of the little girl asking it. So desperate to have that simple wish fulfilled. Smiling gently, Ashlyn nodded, once more resting her hand on Ronnie's. "Of course. I'd like that." (Reply none) (Posted by Will and Mark) (USS Exeter - Ready Room - Exeter CO, Lt. Commander Trip Williams and Illuminar FO, Lt. SG, Sienna Williams-Verin -1900) As they entered the ready room Trip motioned to Sy to take a seat on a couch in his ready room. It was perpendicular to a rather comfortable armchair where Trip sat down. “So, what’s really going on?” "Q." She spoke one word then looked down at her hands. "You heard that he gave me these psychic abilities right? But gave me no clue what to do with them, or how to use them. One of them allows me to touch places or objects and read their past history. Who held them, what they thought, etc. One of them lets me see the future very briefly. Like seconds before things happen. Ensign Taya died, and it was on my watch. We lost other people, a security officer and a nurse that was with them, but I did not know them. I dismissed what I felt as I was arguing with Bajoran Flight Control to get some probes in orbit to monitor our people that were on the planet. People died and it was my fault." She looked like she was going to crumple. "Tamblyn told us those tunnels were a sensor nightmare and I suggested posting a telepath with each team to get around the sensor blackout. The Illuminar has a telepathic alien in her, Luma could have kept in contact with all of them. I should have insisted harder." This was what she needed Duke for. Sekal did not understand why this bothered her. To him, people died and the losses were either acceptable or not. “It’s not your fault. People understand the risks they take. And just because you prepare for one eventuality, that doesn’t mean that another event won't come in and create the same result. Our lives are chaos, and sometimes you just can’t fight it.” "I am not sure they did." Sy spoke sadly. "We lost people in the temple too, but that was bajor being stupid, not us. We nearly lost the kai. Bajor…" Sienna said the planet's name in contempt. "So suspicious that it nearly lost them their Kai." She shook her head, anger, loss and hurt in her. "Where does it end? Their war ended decades ago and they treat us like we are the enemy. We never were!" She cried out, some of the pain escaping. “We didn’t lose very many, just...just one….he gave his life to save another. That’s part of the job, part of the sacrifice. Myself, I have blood on my hands. At least 60 if not more enemy combatants died on my orders. Could I have done more to save them. I don’t know. But each life mattered, and I do my best to honor that. Even the enemy, I try my best to remember, not just treat it as another acceptable loss. I want the act of ordering the end of someone’s life or the death of a crewmen under my command to always hurt. Because I remember that life is precious, that their life was precious, and it helps me honor the dead. Let it hurt, let it push you to do better, but don’t second guess yourself. Because you can trap yourself in the grief. If that makes sense?” "I guess. But what Q wanted with us… why us? Why me? The things he showed me were horrible, Trip. He dressed me up in these layers and layers of cloth. He said things about you and Lynn, took my worst fears and turned them on me. He said you betrayed our blood tie by taking Lynn from me." Now she looked like she was going to cry and peeled off her gloves, rolling up the sleeve of her dress. There were evenly spaced cuts on her skin, well healed but scarred. "Quinna tried to heal them. They are all over my body. Neck to feet. He … Trip it was so real. I was tied to a bed and a woman was cutting me. It was a law enforcement thing, on a past earth. Q … it had something to do with multiple realities and the civil war that dad and mom were involved in. Trip, my dna has changed. I am not the same as I was before Q. I guess the cuts of my skin were supposed to be the visible signs of what this broken bond with Lynn is like. I have not slept more than a few hours since that encounter with Q. And he forced Luma to admit things and tried to drive Vex away from her. That did not work, thankfully. Q said that when I got back to Earth the abilities would be gone. It can not be soon enough." She seemed haunted and was babbling. Trip waited in silence for what seemed like forever. He didn’t know what to say. The truth is if he ever did meet Q, this particular Q that is, he would probably punch him for what he did to his sister. But not everyone was lucky or unlucky enough to meet a Q, and Trip didn’t think he’d ever get his opportunity for payback. “Look Q is an asshole. I don’t know why he did what he did, or what any of it meant. He probably did it for two reasons. One because he didn’t think you were strong enough or two because he knows you are strong enough to take. Me, I think you’re stronger than he gives you credit for.” She looked up at him, pain on her face. Guilt too. "I feel like I failed whatever the test was, Trip." She whispered those words that she would never say to any counselor. “Sy, honestly, I would never betray you, you know that right?” "I know. It was Lynn, not you. Q said in one reality I gave up my career to be Lynn's housewife and I was miserable. I don't see how it could be worse. I thought distance would help but as the bond stretched it just got worse, the pain. I think if she had given up hers she would have been just as miserable though. If Q could have given me anything… in the vision where I was cut, I was wed to a woman named Tempe who looked much like Lynn. And that Sy loved her with all her being." Sy opened the box and put it between them, eating one of the rapidly cooling mozzarella sticks with a grimace. She rose and walked over to the replicator, "Frozen strawberry lemonade and bacon cheese fries. Loaded nachos." She turned towards Trip and raised an eyebrow for him to order as the replicator made delicious junk food which she carried back to the small coffee table. “I’m ok, thank you though.” Trip said with a smile. He was holding off going crazy with food until after he worked out. “I think there is a valuable insight to be had. The reality that no matter how much you care for someone, love someone, cherish someone, sometimes, the timing isn’t right. Especially in Starfleet. Especially when they’re both officers, promising officers. Even if I didn’t pick Lynn or Sekal didn’t pick you, or neither of you were First Officers right now, in a year, you’d both be in primo positions somewhere, and unfortunately that might have separated you as well. Timing, timing can be, well, a %$@&. And part of me agrees with that alternate reality you were shown. There is someone out there for you, someone special, someone who you will love with your whole being, and who will feel the same way. I don’t know. I mean so much is made of being Imzadi. But even if that person, may not be your Imzadi by bond, they’ll be your Imzadi by soul.:” Sy sat back down and attacked the food in front of her. She had not realized how hungry she really was. She concentrated on the fries - she had gotten the nachos for him. “I’m not sure you understand, she was Lynn essentially, just a human Lynn. There were things about it...that were amazing. Like she braided my hair before that Sy, the one that Q said was the novel Sym went undercover. Q said that humans did their best to deliberately breed out the psionic abilities that were developing.” She frowned and stopped eating as she sensed his worry. "I just…. I just want you to be ok." She stopped eating and wiped her fingers, “I don’t know that I will be. I’m hoping going home to Mom will help that she’ll have an idea. I’m hoping she has a friend or someone that she can call. I’m hoping that Q wasn’t jacking me around, that when we get to Earth it will all be over, and I’ll just be me. I don’t know that the changes he made will revert. I hope that the cosmetic..the scars..will be able to be healed. I feel ugly Trip. What woman is going to want me with a body covered in scars?” The scars were the physical manifestation of the pain she was enduring. She had done her best to shield it from Trip all this time. “It’s not getting better Trip. It feels like razor blades around my heart. I’d rather have an empty spot where she was than endure this constant pain. Our Counselor...Alaya, the blue haired woman from Mars? She’s been working with me, trying to help. She’s not a mind healer, though. She thinks that I need one, and I don’t know where we will find such a thing . Luma says that it was uncommon for telepaths to bond with non-telepaths aboard the generation ship. They deliberately bred for the abilities because they needed strong telepaths to bond with Luma. She says when it happened, that sometimes it did not end well. Luma said that the mind healers would work with the person to try and help, but that it sometimes..well. The telepath chose to die rather than endure the pain. And I can see that Trip, I can. I can’t sleep without drugs due to how bad the pain is. I dream about Lynn at times. I had a dream a few days ago… But I don’t think it was real. It couldn’t have been.” She sighed, not wanting to go into that disturbing dream. “And I’m afraid that if I’m ever with her, that it will just snap back into place. And I know she’s not suffering the way I am.” How Sy knew this, she couldn’t say. Maybe it was just a hope that her former best friend was in a better place mentally than she was. “There’s a girl on the Illuminar I kinda like. She’s someone I met at the Academy. She’s super cute but our shifts are stupid and we rarely even get time to talk. Do you remember Tressa? She’s one of our Security people now. She got demoted for talking back to an officer, which doesn’t surprise me. She’s a full betazoid too. “ Sy shrugged a bit. Trip sat silently, trying to think what to say. He just couldn’t figure out the right words. Part of him wanted to say at least the bond was still there. That he would have rather felt the jaggedness of the bond, then have it completely ripped from him and just turn off. Or how even though Rae was Imzadi, their bond was always stronger as friends than lovers. But he knew neither would land right. Neither would have the effect he has hoping for. He just wanted her to be ok. But these things would take time. There were other things he wanted to say, but he buried them. The focus needed to be on her, her pain. How he can help. He didn’t want the spotlight. “Well is she pretty?” Trip said with a smile. “I mean, ask her out, what’s the worst that could happen?” "She is adorable and sweet, a Betazoid. But I am her boss? I don't think I can just ask her out. I have invited her to listen to me play when I can't sleep, and we have coffee and talk a lot. She is … special?" Sy shrugged a bit. "Too worried about how bad it will end, and it is not fair to her until I sort out this mess." A sad little smile. “So your turn. Dish.” She spoke, indicating that it was his turn to talk and catch up. “Me, I’m fine. We’re fine. On the way back we spent some days in the Gamma Quadrant exploring and making some reconnections, which is why unfortunately we missed the ‘party’ you all were having. But it was….let me tell you sis, every fiber of my being that wanted to explore was burning with joy. I was farther away from home than I could imagine. Seeing stars, nebulas, anomalies, that I had never seen before. It was….It reminded me of every reason I wanted to be in Starfleet.” Her eyes lit up for the first time with joy as he talked, catching his emotions as he talked about what it had been like. "We landed the Illuminar on the planet. Oh was Luma grumpy the entire time. Ships belong in space! What if it will not get off the planet again? She woke me up singing when we lifted off back into space. But it was amazing. I stood both times and just watched, amazed with the technology that allowed us to do this. It was amazing for someone who had really never left her home planet before. " “I hope that as more ships are made, more Exeter class ships, dad’s ship, that when they leave Utopia Planitia, that they too get to experience that wonder. I hope you guys do too. There is so much out here that is unknown. I just, I feel like a kid in a candy store.” Sy could not help the smile from her brother’s enthusiasm, “I guess it’s the same feeling I had when we were able to make the vaccine water soluble and release it into the pools to save the symbionts, mhmm?” “Most likely. Just the feeling of doing what you are supposed to do, you know?” She smiles and nods, “Yeah. I know what you mean. I felt that way … before. Maybe I will again. I hope I will again.” “Hey I have something for you.” Trip said with a smile as he walked over to her desk and handed her a box. Sy perked up. Gifts were happy things, gifts from Trip were the best. “It’s a necklace with a charm on it. It’s the Bajoran symbol for protection. They say that if you give it to someone you really care about, that no matter how far apart you are, that the Prophets will watch over them and keep them safe. Not sure how much I believe in all that, but just the thought of you having it makes me feel more at ease.” She pulled her gloves off to take the charm from him, holding it in her hand. The memories of it floated through her, snatches of her twin buying it, the cleric who had made it, the rituals used to imbue the charm, and the deep, deep faith of the cleric. Her eyes reopened and she grinned at Trip. "Of all the abilities, this is what I will miss the most." She had not coped well the last few weeks, being knocked back by the unexpected revelations. She wanted to share everything with Trip the way she had used to in their younger years but duty now had an indivisible barrier between them. She laid back on his couch. "So. How is the brain stuff going? Do I need to be scanned for it too?" “It wouldn’t hurt to get scanned. But just because I have it, doesn’t mean you do. But it would be the prudent move.” He said with a smile. “I’m good. It heightened my abilities for a few days, the implant that is, but it’s settled down now. But it’s good, and with the implant, it won't really be an issue for me. Just a reminder though, that I’m mortal. The doctor’s visits every two weeks are a pain. But worth it, I think.” Sienna gave her twin a LOOK. "It makes sense though since with my blood disorder issues. I still have weekly checks." “Now then, sis, anything else you’d like to do before you guys ship out?” "How did you handle it when you were required to see the counselor every week? Was it still needed when you took command?" Something was bothering her. “Is everything ok?” he said trying to read the situation without reading her thoughts. “It sucked at first, like having to schedule things around it. But once I got into the groove of it, I mean it hurt, and I would sometimes cry after, but I knew it was worth it, and I knew I was going to be better because of it. I was in a dark place, a really dark place, and it helped in getting the light to shine through and put things in perspective. I still try to see a counselor once a month because of it.” "Ok, that makes sense." She was vague as if thinking for a moment. “Seriously, Sy, what's wrong?” "One of the Q gifts is precognition. I am going to be required to see one when we get back to Mars. You knew how its all hit me, the bonds that are too painful. Alaya hinted something about a friend of hers she called. So maybe it will not be terrible? " she shrugged. "Can't sleep more than 3 hours without drugs and I spend most of the night awake, pacing or playing music. I just worry that it will reflect badly that I have to see one? For future promotions." “Oh don’t worry about that.” he said with a smile. “Starfleet wants you to be mentally healthy, mentally sound, and counseling is a great avenue for that. What kind of utopian society would be, if we continued to use mental health as a stigma that someone isn’t capable or able to perform at a high level. I wouldn’t worry about that. And if it becomes an issue, you better believe your brother will raise hell.” Sy sat there, and then looked up. Trip looked Sy deep into her eyes and smiled. “You’re stronger than you give yourself credit for, and whatever you’re going through, you’re gonna kick it’s #$@%^$# ass.” A brighter smile as she sat back with a nod. She had needed him so very badly. (reply none) (posted by Mel and Will) (USS Exeter - Deck 11, Main Engineering, Service Corridor Alpha - Exeter CO, Lt. Commander Trip Williams and Illuminar FO, Lt. SG Sienna Williams-Verin - 20:00) “Well this is as bowely as I can think of.” Trip said as the dynamic twin duo of Trip and Sienna entered into the cramp service corridor that acted as a quick run around through all levels of main engineering and connecting to Jeffries tube access to other key engineering areas. “Dad would have crossed through here many times during the build while making sure that the engineering decks were being put together properly.” She had stopped at the replicator before leaving the ready room and gotten a simple coverall like jumpsuit and leggings and a tank top in silk for underneath before ducking into his restroom to change. Emerging she braided her hair back and kept the silk gloves on before following him. How had she let the Trill project eat all the precious time Trip had spent here? If she could have gone back in time and done it again, would she have done so? Oh yeah. Hindsight and all that. “So you said that you wanted to, what was it, read them?” Sy nodded, turning to face her brother. "The longer a person spends with an object, especially a man made one, the more impressions seem to cling to it. Sometimes there are full memories associated. The less uh, contamination and the longer a person spends in contact affects what I can see. So if lots of people traipsed through an area, then the more contamination and… I do not know how to explain. I keep getting these flashes of impressions from the future too and one of them was to try this?" She grinned weakly up at him. She had changed a lot in a very short period. And so had he. "So. Let us see what is here, shall we?" She pulled off the silk gloves and placed both hands firmly on the deck. Closing her eyes. And waiting. "Repairs?" She spoke out loud. "Technicians through here. Recent. Under that." She took another deep breath. "You. Proud. No, not just pride. Elation?" She laughed. "Banged your head?" “Just needed some minor stitches, nothing major. I get clumsy when I get prideful. You know what they say, pride cometh before the fall.” "During the walkthrough? You were right to be proud to be a Williams. I feel him, just not anything concrete. Nothing I can pin down. Like I KNOW it is Dad. Here." Sy reached out to her brother with a soft smile, the old link of their childhood snapping together almost painfully, at least for Sy. Everything was pain, "Do you feel him? He is all around us." “Kind of, but not on a psychic level, more on a human level, I guess. Just the way the design, the way things were built, the way things mesh together. The simplicity and complexity of the design. That’s what I feel him in, see him in. Not the way you do, but in the way I see things, he’s everywhere.” Sy bit her lip. It was what she did when bluffing, her tell, her way of thinking. She wanted to share this with him. "Maybe another, deeper place. Where less people have been?" Frustration in her voice. Trip smiled “There is a secret nook, too far ahead, dad told me about it. Just a small utility room they put in. But it’s where he would sneak off to write poetry for mom and letters for us on the weeks were work was hectic to where he couldn’t hitch a transporter home. He’d sneak in there 15 minutes at a time. Now its mainly used for secret naps. They don’t think we know. But we do. But it keeps morale up so, there ya go.” Trip led her a few bits forward then opened the door to the “napping” nook. “Here it is.” Sy had pulled her gloves back on before crawling forward with Trip. She took the gloves off again before trying again, "Flashes of people. Dreams but more daydreams than nap dreams. Love and unhappiness, tears of both joy and fear. Under that." She kept her eyes closed as she saw Duke help Sophie into the nook. This time Sy did not link she projected it. Her brother needed to see their much younger parents. “What, ummm, what am I seeing here sis.” She smiled at him, "Look at the memory." “Is that mom and dad?” "Mhmm hmm. The words are not there. But yeah. Mom and Dad. I knew they had to be here, well Dad had to be. Why this one?" She wondered out loud then laughed with joy. "First time he brought her here. To his secret place." She kept her hands firmly on the deck plates. "I wish I could, that this was two years ago and I could do this, when our bond was stronger. Oh, where are they going." Sy took off after the vision of her parents, following it straight to main engineering. She winced in pain at the contamination and tried to hold onto that specific moment in time. Duke and Sophie were dancing to something neither twin could hear, through consoles that had not been placed yet. Sy kept her hands firmly on the deck plates and focused with a fierce look of determination. The current engineering crew had no idea who this strange person was until Trip emerged from the conduit too. But the vision came into better focus. "Dad was a hopeless romantic. I hope you dance in random places with your lady, Trip." Sy murmured that statement, aware enough of the outside environment to not say that loudly. And then it was gone. Lost to the static of too many impressions. Sy was unaware she was crying from the love she sensed between their parents. Seeing the tears, sensing his sisters emotions, Trip pulled her into a loving embrace. Holding her close, tight, the kind of hug he had always given her anytime she cried, whether they were tears of joy, sadness, anger, pain, or laughter. Trip was a hugger. “We are really lucky aren’t we,” Trip said matter of factly. “To have such wonderful parents. With so much love in their heart for everyone around them.” Sy did not have her gloves on. Or the all silk outfit. She winced at the confusing clash of things she sensed that made zero sense to her. She clung to Trip and let him talk. He was so much like Dad, the Dad she saw in the memories. “But never forget Sy, all those memories you felt, what you showed me. Yeah, this ship is special to dad, but you and I, we’re their true legacy, Dad’s, well and Mom’s greatest creation. No matter how far we are from each other. I will always be with you, because our greatest bond, isn’t our link, its the love our parents shared, with us and with each other.” She pulled back just a tiny bit from him and held on. Still linked, still projecting, but this time it was the confusing mess she was reading off him. "Your engineering crew has no idea what we are doing, but they love this ship and respect you. They followed you through fire." She was not smiling now. ::This, with the scars and the flashes of insight to the future are what Q did to me.:: she whispered telepathically since the Q debacle was classified. ::Can we not, umm talk about the future. The future is a confusing jumbled mess of unknown probability, timeliness, and chaos, that is constantly changing on a daily basis. Let’s talk about you, about what I can do for you. To help.:: She looked down for a moment, ::I miss her so much. Luma says I need a mind healer. So gonna go to the ranch and ask Mom to find one.:: A sad smile. "Want to go back over to DS9 or is it too late? Need to find my gloves though. Thanks for this. I was not sure what was here, if anything. Bet Dad would laugh if we reminded him of this." “I think its a bit late. But we can touch base tomorrow if you’d like.” "I like." She grinned. "Want to touch base with your Lady and Rissa if she wants to come over to the Illuminar. " “Thank you for this. Didn’t know how special this ship really was to me, to us, until now. Thank you.” Sy was still looking around for her gloves, "Let's go pick up the silk before I leave though. Protocol says I shouldn't walk on your bridge without you." (reply none) (posted by Will and Mel) (DS9 promenade- aCOO Ensign Paul Sleeford 20:00) Walking past Quarks the noise was bouncing from the walls opposite, making weird echos. It seemed most of the crews from the Exeter and Illuminer where inside trying to win at the Dabo table, knowing the establishment they had no chance. As he walked he smiled at the remembrance of his recent lunch with Katie, his first mouthful of Hasperat while not a complete disaster, wasn’t far short. He’d been warned that a good Hasperat would make his eyes water and the back of his throat burn, fortunately the cooling effects of the Bajorian ale quenched the fire. Finding the store he needed Sleeford walked in and walked round the small space finding what he needed near the counter, paying an exorbitant price in pressed latinum, waiting while the shopkeeper wrapped the bottle Sleeford looked at the other item for sale and wondered with the prices this guy charged how he made a living. Leaving the shop and headed back to the ship. (Uss Exeter - sickbay - aCOO Ensign Paul Sleeford 20:30) Walking into sickbay Sleeford noticed how quite it was, considering two days ago it was heaving with injured crew crow the away mission, poking his head round the door of the CMOs office he could see the Sandy hair of Dr Vespers bent over something on the desk. Tapping on the glass panel Sleeford coughed. “Sorry to disturb you doctor” (Reply Vespers) Placing the bottle on the deck Sleeford nodded, “ As a thank you. A bottle of 2390 Andorian brandy” (Reply Vespers) (Posted by Alistair) (Gamma Quadrant, Prophet’s Fire Stronghold Planet – Shrine Grounds – 2O/CEO – Lieutenant Keira Merek -2307) Keira left the shuttle after a hasty landing. The weight of a piece of neutronium in her right hand that she somehow was able to carry as she took off in a dead sprint hoping her errand didn’t make her too late. She made it to the front doors of the shrine and she opened the door with her free hand. Her fears had been made real as she saw burned bodies wearing Starfleet uniforms. The armors melted on them in places. Charred flesh filled her nostrils. She was too late. “One final warrior?” Came a voice from inside, mocking her. All the torches and candles came on at once lit by an impossible spontaneous flame. The light was bright enough to see clearly illuminating the night clawing at the building from the outside. Being able to see added to the horror. More dead comrades, some crushed, impaled or burred by the wooden benches typical of a house of worship in many cultures. “Jost.” Keira said simply her tone, challenging. “Child, what makes you think you can face a god?” The possessed Bajoran mocked her further. “I borrowed the power from one.” She answered lifted the piece of neutronium up by the handle an read the ancient inscription: “Sá sem notar þennan hamar, ætti hann að vera verðugur, skal hafa öll völd Þórs.” In an instant a stroke of lightning arced in from the doors behind her and a clap of deafening thunder shattered all the windows and shook the ground. Keira stood a hand or so taller now wearing gleaming armor. The hammer in her hand seemed now much lighter. “Parlor tricks won’t help you now, have at you!” Jost said, red eyes gleaming. He threw a gout of flame at her in a long wide stream. She easily tumbled out of the way avoiding the blast. “Two can play that game,” she said brandishing Mjolnir in front of her. She concentrated and an arc of electricity lashed out and struck the former cleric in the shoulder. “Argh!” He cried out in pain. “I’ll make you pay for that.” He gave a shove out into the air which pushed Keira back ten meters, her feet scraping against the stone floor attempting to find purchase, she finally stopped. Jost telekinetically lifted errant pieces of wooden benching and began throwing it at Keira. She batted each one away easily with swings of her weapon, stepping forward with each swing. Dozens of thrown pieces of debris later she was now in close proximity to the man and she quipped with a grin, “Let’s take this outside.” An upward swing of the hammer sent the possessed man flying through a stone wall and pushed the rear double doors open as he skidded across the ground to the outer courtyard. It took considerable effort for Jost to even stand. He some how summoned the energy to coalesce a ball of hot blue plasma and hurl it towards Keira’s confident march through the double doors. She brought her weapon up just in time to absorb the brunt of the explosion and the plasma dissipated around her harmlessly. “WHY CAN’T YOU JUST DIE!?” the former priest screamed as he levitated hundreds of rocks of varying sizes which at his behest began careening towards Keira at unimaginable speed. She countered by spinning the weapon by it’s leather lanyard in front of her at a speed which deflected the larger pieces and blew away the smaller ones. When he was all out of errant rock ammunition her spinning stopped. “Now it’s you who will pay.” Her eyes began glowing white, she raised the hammer high calling down a stroke of lightning, striking the top of Jost’s head. CRACK-BOOM. Jost fell to his knees. “For the pain you’ve caused,” another flash of lightning from the now storm filled skies. The air smelled of acrid ozone. CRACK-BOOM. The man in red robes was barely able to keep his head up. “For the lives you’ve taken…” CRACK-BOOM. The broken man tried to protest, tried to bargain now at the end. “..yours is forfeit,“ she said and brought the hammer down ending Jost’s life. [Objective Reached. Ending Program.] The unfamiliar computer voice said. The court yard was replaced with the yellow on black grid in a small room. One of the holosuites on DS9. She had come here to work through some things. The helplessness she felt at seeing her love, nearly killed by the man she just killed. Honestly she felt a little better. As Keira went to exit the computer prompted her to buy the program she just ran. She switched it over to credits and pressed her thumb to the biometric reader that after a short period ejected an isolinear rod into her waiting hand. The door opened allowing her to exit. The door chimed “Come to Quark’s, Quark’s is fun! Don’t walk, RUN!” (Reply none) (Posted by Todd) (DS9 – Quark's bar- SPC Sec/tac PO3 Sytuk – 2318) Sytuk stood on the upper floor of Quark's bar and looked down at the people. Several members of the Exeter crew and other crews were interacting with each other. Sytuk made his way to the stairs and made his way to the bar. He pressed down on the stool to check its stability. ~ Should be fine ~ He thought as he sat down. The bartender , a Bajoran male approached him quickly. " What can I get you ?" The man asked. Sytuk looked around at what others were drinking. " I'll have one of those " He said, pointing to a woman and her drink. " A woman or a drink ?" The bartender joked. Sytuk just stared at him. " The drink" he said unimpressed with the bartenders attempt of humor. " One dry martini coming up. " ~ Dry? Its liquid?~ Sytuk thought confused as to how a liquid could be dry. The drink was sat in front of him. Sytuk picked it up and watched how others drank their chosen beverages. Some emptied them quickly others appeared to savor it. Sytuk decided to down his. Just as he brought it to his lips his martini was knocked out of his hand and the glass cup shattered on the counter as the beverage went everywhere. Sytuk looked to his left. One of the klingon warriors had fallen into him. He noticed some of the klingon's bloodwine had also spilled onto him. Sytuk lowered his head , covered in a martini bloodwine mixture and took a deep breath. The Klingon smacked Sytuk on the shoulder. "Looks like you got in the way of my bloodwine." The klingon said, showing his twisted teeth. Sytuk looked the Klingon in the eyes. " You broke my martini…" The klingon looked at Sytuk. " Let me get you a bloodwine. Come drink with us. " Sytuk was shocked, expecting an altercation, but instead was met with a offer of social engagement. He stood and followed the klingon. He followed the Klingon over to the others. " I am Kod son of Mostok , this is Mogor son of Balon , Toral daughter of Kuv and Kramn son Rysus" The first klingon said. Introducing his companions. " I am Sytuk." He said. " Sytuk, hmm that's good enough for me . " Mogor said. " Have a bloodwine " offered. Kramn. Sytuk reached for the offered mug and watched as the others held their mug up in the air . " To broken Martinis and full mugs of bloodwine." Kod said loudly as they slammed their mugs together. Sytuk down the bloodwine with the klingons. " ANOTHER ?" Yelled the female Klingon. " Yes... another" Sytuk responded. Kramn slammed his fist on the bar. " More bloodwine for our friend new Sytuk " "BRING A BARREL ! " Kod demanded. Sytuk looked at the klingons and grabbed another bloodwine. " TO BLOODWINE " Sytuk said very loudly as he slammed mugs with the klingons. ( reply any who wants) ( posted by Rob Davis Spc PO3 Sytuk) (DS9 – Quark's bar- Sec/Tac – Ensign – Arbor – 2324) He had spent the day wandering Deep Space Nine. It had been nice to stop for a bit and just enjoy the walk. It was not a planet but if he was going to be on a ship then he would need to get used to it. He spent some time in the Arboretum leaning against a tree, taking in the smells of the trees and grass and listening to the sound of the small stream that ran through it. When he had left hours, he had felt a lot better and had decided to check out the Prominade. It was very late, but places were still open such as Quark`s so he decided to enter. There were a few groups of people still drinking and he had to pass a loud group of Klingons to reach the bar. "BRING A BARREL ! " One demanded. "TO BLOODWINE " As squeezed past one of the Klingon turn and looked at him. He saw the look of bewilderment on the Klingon`s face. ~Ow no~ “Look its walking tree.” She turned and slapped the Klingon who was standing beside him. “Kramn look its walking tree.” The Klingon turned and grinned. “Yes, Toral it’s a Tree. Come Tree have some blood wine.” Arbor was going to move on but one of the main thing that he had been taught in the Rangers was that you never knew who might help you in the future and it was rude to refuse a drink. So he joined the group and nodded politely as the introductions were made as a mug of blood wine was thrust into his hand. He was surprised to see a Reman in the group. ~Maybe he also could not refuse a drink with them~ “So, Tree what is your name?” “My name is Arbor son of Wammanoki.” (Reply Sytuk,Klingons ) (Reply Sytuk, any) (Posted by Robbie)(SPC Arbor) (DS9 – Quark's bar- Sec/Tac PO3 Sytuk– 2326) “So, Tree what is your name?”Kod asked. “My name is Arbor son of Wammanoki.” The Ensign responded. Sytuk looked at the Ensign. The klingons of group raised their mugs " To the Tree , Arbor Son Wammanoki !!!" Sytuk slammed his mug against all of theirs. After they downed their bloodwine a large barrel was brought out for them. On of the men who brought the barrel looked at them " A officer on the second floor had it sent to you guys...enjoy" he said as he walked off quickly. Sytuk looked at Arbor. " What ship are posted too ?" (Reply Arbor) " Me too, welcome aboard " Sytuk said slamming his hand on Arbors shoulder. ( reply Arbor) ( reply Arbor) ( posted by Rob Davis) (DS9 – Quark's bar- Sec/Tac – Ensign – Arbor – 2328) Arbor downed his drink of bloodwine with the others. "What ship are posted too?" “The USS Exeter.” " Me too, welcome aboard " Arbor smiled as slamming his hand on Arbors shoulder. The Reman was strong but Arbor braced himself surreptitiously so that he would not fall over or embarrass his new friend by seeing him do it. “Thank you, which department are you in?” (Reply Sytuk) “That is grate. I am also going to be in tactical. What is the Exeter like. I have not been stationed on board a starship for a long time.” (Reply Sytuk) (Reply Sytuk, any) (Posted by Robbie) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< End Compile >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<