>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: You Can't Go Home Again Day: 4 Stardate: 2444.06.04 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (Martian Ground Facilities – Science and research facility – -civilian specialist engineer Kora – 0343) (Mars Base - Science Complex, Jaton's Quarters - Science Officer Ensign Jaton Alyl/ Ambassador Addison MacCaulay - 0725) (Mars Base, Main Triage, aACMO Ens(jg) Ailynn Bracken, 0845) (Mars Facility – Main Engineering - CO Admiral Remae Ktell – 0955) (Mars Facility – Security Complex, Peters’ Office , Intell Ens(jg) Eva Rozen– 1008) (Starfleet Martian Ground Facilities – Main Triage, Staff room 2 - SPC COUNS Alaya Ravenstone – 1036) (Starfleet Martian Ground Facilities – Main Triage, Staff room 2 - aACMO Ens(jg) Ailynn Bracken –1038) (Starfleet Martian Ground Facilities – Science Annex– aACSO's Office- SO Ensign Sienna Williams-Verin– 1045) (Starfleet Martian Ground Facilities – Science Annex– aACSO's Office- aACSO, Ensign Sekal– 1049) (Mar Base, Medical, Medical/Counselor, Ensign J.G. Quinna Solice 10:51) (Starfleet Martian Ground Facilities – Main Triage, Staff room 2 - aACMO Ens(jg) Ailynn Bracken – 1054) (Mar Base, Medical, Medical/Counselor, Ensign J.G. Quinna Solice 11:03) (Starfleet Martian Ground Facilities – Science Annex – Ensign Verin's Office (Off the Arboretum directly) - SO Ensign Sienna Williams-Verin– 1103) (Starfleet Martian Ground Facilities – Science Annex – Ensign Verin's Office - aACSO, Ensign Sekal– 1105) (Starfleet Martian Ground Facilities – Science Annex – Ensign Verin's Office -Ensign Sienna Williams-Verin – 1109) (Mars Facility – Main Security Office - CO Admiral Remae Ktell – 1120) (Mars Facility – Security Complex, Main Security Office - SEC Ens(jg) Carson Peters – 1144) (Mars Facility – Intelligence Offices - Ensign Eva Rozen – 1205) (Mars Facility – Intelligence Offices - CO Admiral Remae Ktell – 1209) (Starfleet Martian Ground Facilities – Shara living quarters room 103 joint living section – civilian specialist Kora– 1550) (Starfleet Martian Ground Facilities – Sub-Basement 4 - Main Engineering - E/SYO Ensign Boone Foster - 1718 (Mars Facilities - Red Sands Tavern - Civilian specialist Kora- 19.32) (Mars Facilities - Red Sands Tavern - ENS jg Counselor Ariel Trei - 19.35) (Starfleet Martian Ground Facilities – Personal Quarters - aACMO – Ens(jg) Ailynn Bracken and SO Ens(jg) Sienna Verin-Williams - 2145) (Starfleet Martian Ground Facilities –Engineering Annex– A dark, shadowy out of the way corner - NPC NCO Kiva Rothvaryn– 2340) (Starfleet Martian Ground Facilities –Medical Annex–Random Medical Office- NPC NCO Kiva Rothvaryn– 2358) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (Martian Ground Facilities – Science and research facility – -civilian specialist engineer Kora – 0343) Kora walked up to a terminal that was on the wall and looked at her scanner " This is the one " she said as brought up the diagnostic screen on the terminal and looked at the tactile interface settings. They were completely out of whack. She opened the wall panel next to the terminal and scanned the power circuits. " There is 27 percent more power being dumped into this thing, who did this ?" She said aloud, but talking to herself . She broke out a shiney triangle shaped tool and began power redistribution procedures. "19 percent, 11, 5, 2 and...perfect " Kora said with a smile. She closed the wall panel and whistled as she put her tool away back in her satchel. She then recalibrated the tactile input settings . The settings returned to normal operating tolerances. She put the terminal back in its previous mode and looked at her schedule located on a gauntlet on her left arm, she checked this terminal off and proceeded on her way to her next task... ( reply any) ( posted by davis ) (Mars Base - Science Complex, Jaton's Quarters - Science Officer Ensign Jaton Alyl/ Ambassador Addison MacCaulay - 0725) Addison got up early that morning she couldn’t sleep she wasn’t sure what all was going on but the news that Jaton was alive had gotten to her. She had made the choice to go find him on her own. She wanted to see for herself that it was really him. Addison walked down the hall she wasn’t sure what to do about the Jaton thing. She wasn’t even sure how to tell him about his kids. Not that she had to since she was sure he had already met Kasian. She also didn’t know how he would react to the fact that she was married now and 25 years older, but her feet stillcarried her down the hall towards the science department. She wasn’t sure if she wanted to get lucky and he be there or not be there. Things where such a mess. Maybe she would even recognize her at all. As Addison approached the door she stood outside of it she hadn't felt this unsure about herself in a very long time. Jaton was just out of the sonic shower, getting ready to go down to the lab and review the results of the simulations he'd let run overnight. He had gotten as far as putting on his trousers and was just sitting down to put on his boots when the doorchime sounded. "Who could that be at this hour," he wondered sotto voce. "Come in." Addison took a deep breath before she walked through the door and into Jaton's quarters. She stepped in the door looking around till she spotted the man. Her heart was pounding as he eyes met Jaton's. She didn’t even know where to start she truly thought this was all a big mistake. “Hello.” She finally managed Jaton finished pulling on his second boot and got up to look at who was there. He was getting that reverse old photo feeling again. "Hello?" He said hesitantly. "I know you, don't I?" “You haven't aged a day since I last saw you.” Addison didn’t know what to say she couldn’t believe she was seeing him again. It was then that it clicked. His heart skipped a beat. "Addison? Addison!" He dropped the shirt in his hand and ran towards her, arms wide open. Addison wrapped her arms around her first love. Addison heart was breaking just from the sight of him actually contact did her in. She felt tears roll down her face she was able to speak at that moment she just held him close. ~this must be some punishment from the gods.~ she thought “I have dreamed of this day. The day we would be reunited.” Addison said between sobs she had a mix of emotion at this time she had a husband and a child with him, but her love for Jaton had never faded. “There so much I need to tell you so much has happened over the last 25 years.” Addison started as she pulled back then it hit her that maybe he didn’t want to know about all that maybe he just wanted to start over. “If you want to know any on it.” Addison said the councilor part of her kicking in knowing this was probably the most stressful thing anyone could go through. Jaton reluctantly ended the embrace and pulled away to look at Addison in the eyes. He tenderly wiped her tears away, feeling some of his own beginning to well up. "There there. Of course I want to hear everything. I'm just so happy to have my girl back. I thought I may never see you again." Addison sighed a little “we should sit dear.” Addison motioned towards the sofa as she walked over and sit down turning so she could face him. Jaton followed her and sat down next to her, a concerned look on his face. “Sweetheart you should have a chance to live your best life, however that can’t be the one that was taken from you 25 years ago.” As Addison spoke she knew this was going to break his heart as much as it was hers. “You have two children they are both grown, and probably won’t need a father figure. You should still get to know them and at the very least build some type of relationship with them all three of you should get that chance.” Addison was trying to stop herself from crying she reached out taking Jaton's hand. “Kaz will be the hardest one you will need to force your way in he’s a bit stubborn. Figured he got that from you.” Addison stopped as she study Jaton's face. “Have you already met him?” Addison ask she had forgotten that Kaz was a medical officer here so the odds of them meeting where pretty good. "We've met," Jaton said bitterly. "He refused to believe me when I said who I was and he ended up breaking my nose for it. I suppose it was a prophetic thing when named him after me since I recognise that streak of anger from my own subconscious. I'm disappointed to see that he hasn't learned to master it like I have." “Yeah hes alot like you. I married when the boys where 13 but by then it was probably too late for them to have a father figure around all the time. Kasian seemed to take on that role. He had a hard time letting his step-father in at first but in the end it all worked out.” Addison didn’t know how else to break the fact that she was married other then to slip it into her conversation. She might've tried to let it slip by, but Jaton caught it. He pulled away. "You're married?" He shook his head and rested it in his hands. "Of course you are. It wouldn't be fair for me to think you would've held a torch for me all this time," he sighed. Addison sighed a bit “it’s not that simple hun, I’ve never stopped loving you, but I thought you were gone forever.” Addison didn’t want him to think she had abandoned him. "But you said I have two children? Why would Kasian not say so?" “Kasian has always been very protective of Arvos, and it sounded like he didn’t trust you.” Addison said knowing Jaton probably wouldn't understand the two had a very special relationship. Jaton guffawed. "That's putting it mildly." He then turned back to her. "But I'm glad you trust me. But what of Arvos? Will he trust me? Or my parents?" Addison looked at Jaton a bit did he think she would keep his children away from his family. Thing might of been easier if she had but she didn’t she couldn’t do that to Jaton. “Your parents where a big part of their lives, and a major support for me. I’m not sure we would have made it without them. I miss them so much” Addison said closing her hand as she noticed that she just you the past tenses. Jaton couldn't be hearing this. "Were a big part? You miss them? What are you saying?" Addison rubbed her face “Jaton alot has changed your parents had a very happy life. They had almost everything they could ever want, however, they are no longer with us.” Addison was trying to sugar coat things making it sound better and easier for Jaton to handle. Jaton stood up and began pacing back and forth. "But... how? If this is 2444, then they'd only be, what? In their late 80s?" It was then that it began to sink in just how long he'd been gone. He sat down in one of the chairs opposite Addison and hung his head, his shoulders beginning to quiver with the silent tears he was shedding. Addison folded her hands she felt awful about everything. Everyone needs time to grieve and get over loss in their own time. Addison stood up she hated to drop all this on him but he needed to understand that it has been 25 years and alot has changed. “This is a new life for you Jaton live it to the fullest. Return to trill say your goodbyes, but then start building your life. Use the resources here, see a counselor if you need to.” Jaton didn't respond. He just kept on crying. Everything he knew and loved was gone. Ripped away from him. He was not only mourning the loss of his mother and father but also of his old life. He just rocked back and forth, crying uncontrollably. Addison walked over to Jaton kissed him on his head. “I’m so sorry for everything.” she whispered before leaving Jaton to process. She knew at this time it was the best thing she could do for him. (reply None) (posted by Richard/Spencer) (Mars Base, Main Triage, aACMO Ens(jg) Ailynn Bracken, 0845) Ailynn left the bay that she had been working in after finishing with the last patient. The Nurse passed on Miller’s message about the Andorian Security Officer. “Patient needs to go up to diagnostics, suspected microtear in the left rotator cuff. Might heal on its own, might need surgery. If its’ the latter, day case, back on duty same day. Andorian eh? How strange. Thank you.” She walked over to where the young Andorian Officer. “Good Morning…Ensign?” (Reply Taya) “Forgive the delay. Doctor Bracken, Ailynn. How can I help?” (Reply Taya) (Posted by Mark) (Mars Facility – Main Engineering - CO Admiral Remae Ktell – 0955) Ensign Foster was explaining that Engineering was tackling everything at the same time, it sounded like a lot of emphasis was on the power systems. The Ensign then asked if he had specific requirements, like his office or quarters. “No, Ensign, don’t worry about my personal needs. Just keep doing your best as I know you will.”, said the Admiral and he stayed for a bit longer but he also needed to get moving on, partly to not be a distraction for the officers but also, so he could see as much as possible. Ensign Peters was explaining their efforts to repair and make operations the OPS centre Mars and Remae had to think for a minute, had he even been in there yet? That would have to be fitted into his trip today. “Excellent. I’ll check it out when I next get the chance.”, he said. Continuing, the Security Office seemed to take the opportunity to talk about current events, including the return of the fighter-group, the investigation into the leaked information and returning of the sensor coverage. "Sir, I endeavouring to make the torpedo defence systems operational.", said Ensign Darpeg coming to attention and with a simple wave of his hand, the Admiral waved aside the need for such formalities and he continued to explain to process for ordering parts of the torpedoes when the Andorians left. It was a sore point and one that keep returning to haunt the Federation, they were using technology from when the Andorians left so many years ago. “I might be able to help with that; with the arrival of Trill Vessel, I was informed by the Ambassador that they were able to bring some spare parts. I will get a list and share it around when I next speak to her.”, he said looking around for a moment. He stayed for a little while longer before continuing on his walk around the complex. (Reply from Any) (Posted by Anthony Keen) (Mars Facility – Security Complex, Peters’ Office , Intell Ens(jg) Eva Rozen– 1008) Carson had finished up his conversation with CPO Tamblyn and the man had gone on his way just before the requested senior officers had begun to assemble for the meeting. He took a heavy breath and began pulling the information he had back together, ready to go through it again with the group. Amongst the security ensigns there was someone he wasn’t familiar with, so as he ushered them into the office and had the door close behind them, he said, “Thank-you all for coming. I’m aware you’re taking time out of hectic schedules.” Carson looked around the group, made eye contact with the black-haired woman wearing Intelligence colours and said, “I don’t believe we’ve met. It’s probably best we get the introductions out of the way before continuing?” "yes that would probably be best. I am Ensign Eva Rozen second in command of Intelligence her on Mars. I am glad to meet y and look forward to working with you." she replied (reply Peters or any) Carson nodded and settled down in one of the chairs as she spoke, “… and I’m Ensign Carson Peters. Now we’re all acquainted we can get down to business.” He shifted in his seat slightly before continuing, “We’re all equal rank here, so I do not expect any of you to consider what I’m about to say an order, but I had hoped you’d keep what we’re discussing here on a closed loop. The information could be dangerous if discussed outside of these walls too openly.” Eva listened intently so she could relay to her aunt. (Reply any present iyw) ~Enough beating around the bush~ he thought to himself before speaking, “Two days ago, pirates attacked and were pushed back. We interrogated the prisoner caught by the pilots and discovered that they had come across means of purchasing classified information directly from this base…” Carson continued to survey the room as he spoke, though his eyes kept flitting back to Rozen. He was intrigued to gauge whether anything he was saying came as a surprise to her or whether she already knew parts of it. “…Unfortunately, the Breen known as Ketrol required immediate medical attention and is currently under armed guard in sickbay but is still medically unsound enough to continue our line of questioning.” Eva kept a straight face not showing if she knew this or not. She did not want to give anything away. “Because of that, we’ve had little chance but to sit, wait and keep an eye out to see if our salesman would make a mistake and show themselves to us.” He stopped for a moment to take a drink from the cup in front of him. “I believe that time has come.” Carson handed them all a padd with the same information on it. “Late last night there was an unauthorised off-base communication made.” He looked at the Security officers, “this morning when I was following up on the unauth list, I stumbled across this specific one, which did not look like some youthful mistake, the kind we’ve been dealing with for the past few days. It’s well hidden, fully encrypted and uses protocols to throw off people such as ourselves off the scent as to where it originated.” “It’s a small thread, I admit, but it’s a thread on which I believe we should pull to see if it leads to someone.” He gave them a moment to take in the information in front of them. “I have since had the computer search through for similar transmissions and found several more which follow the same pattern. In addition to this, one of the civilian specialists working for engineering has flagged a suspicious number of terminals around the base which seem to have been tampered with, these two things could be completely unreleated or they could be linked… Thoughts?” he said, opening discussion up to the room. He’d hold back on the plan he had, until they’d had time to digest the information given to them and had a chance to speak. "I will get with Ensign Foxglove and we will see what we can find from it, then report to you." she replied (Reply Taya, Darpeg & Flagg if there) (Posted by Jono Bradley, kierya) (Starfleet Martian Ground Facilities – Main Triage, Staff room 2 - SPC COUNS Alaya Ravenstone – 1036) When Alaya found her bed very early that morning, she had somehow missed the memo that there was some meeting scheduled for 1030 hours. So when she was very late, someone had called to tell her. Once they managed to wake her up, she had literally rolled out of bed, twisted that long aqua hair of hers up into a set of hairsticks after brushing it and ran out, her lilac counsellor uniform of the previous night thrown on. She had rushed in at 1036, smiling as she slid into an empty seat. The exhaustion showed on her features, her dark eyes were dull, her hair lacked the usual luster and her uniform was wrinkled and likely was dirty. "Sorry..." She smiled, but the smile didn't reach her eyes. "I was jut assigned here yesterday. I got in late last night and didn't fall into my bed until around 0300. I'm Alaya Ravenstone." She passed over her credentials disc to the part bajoran woman who was obviously heading the meeting. "I have not even had a chance to report into the CO, who I was told is an Admiral?" She smiled again, then accepted the coffee that a yeoman handed her. "If we have a minute, it would be great to meet the rest of the counselling and medical staff after the meeting." ~And get a read on what is going on here. Something isn't right.~ Alaya nodded and leaned back, sipping her coffee as she listened, her dark eyes darting around the room. The one woman was obviously exhausted, the one who was called Dr. Bracken was also exhausted, the doctor who slumped in late was so hung over she was amazed he could stand, and the interpersonal dynamics here were interesting to say the least. ~This base has been here what less than five days? Is this the lack of a proper senior staff causing this?~ Alaya was older than the others by a few years, and she was concerned. Alaya shook her head when the request for questions came in. She had asked her question, she needed to meet the people one on one. And she needed to speak with Dr. Bracken privately. She was rather impressed with the list of equipment, she had been warned that this base was out of date and falling apart. (reply anyone at the meeting) (posted by Mel) (Starfleet Martian Ground Facilities – Main Triage, Staff room 2 - aACMO Ens(jg) Ailynn Bracken –1038) She took a last sip at her coffee, and stood up the room falling silent. She noted that Ensign Poldan was late again, but all things considered, she’d go easy on him. When he arrived he’d suffer mild sarcasm to go alongside his probable hangover. “Thank you everyone, and I’m sorry for inconvenience. Especially if you’re up after nights. As you may have heard the Admiral has seen fit to appoint me acting ACMO, and believe me, if anyone is uncomfortable with that, it’s nothing on how I feel. Welcoming new staff, Ensign Methor will be joining the medical team, and Ensign Ravenstone has been assigned to us as Consultant Counsellor.” It was then that Kasion entered, looking shower fresh, but still ropey. “Only 10 minutes late Kaz. Early today.” “On to business. I can see a lot of very tired eyes around us, and we’ve all been pulling double shifts since we arrived. Now, we’re all medics, but our first duty is to ourselves. So apart from emergency calls, Crash team, Trauma team and the like, ideally I don’t want us to see us pulling any doubles where possible, but I understand that its sometimes unavoidable.” (Reply any IYW) “Secondly, duty areas, “On top of our normal A&E, ward sweeps, and clinics…yes…we all still get that joy, There’s too much to do if we’re all doing the same thing separately. So…Ensign Poldan, with Surgical and trauma. Ensign Trei you’re still with counselling as you know, and Ensign Solice I’d like you to take on Primary Science Liaison. This is a new base, and I know that sciences are up to who knows what, and they’ll need a medic to help work alongside them, but also facilitate our resources with theirs. In the first instance, see if you can have a conversation with Ensign Sekal, and Ensign Verin-Williams. I will of course, be working with all of you.” (Reply any Medics) “We have some new kit arrived. I’ve procured some brand new medical kits, they’ll be with your duty stations, top of the range Kassa Fabrication equipment. We also have parts on order to repair the type 6 scanners, and new sets of mark V holoprojectors for the diagnostic suite. It’s a lot of information, and as normal I can’t keep my mouth shut, so…enough from me…any questions?” (Reply any medic) (Posted by Mark) (Starfleet Martian Ground Facilities – Science Annex– aACSO's Office- SO Ensign Sienna Williams-Verin– 1045) As the meeting marched on, Sy calmed visibly, and her antagonistic manner also calmed. As she talked science, she became passionate about her chosen specialty. Somehow the trill didn't like that about her either. Something about him grated on her, and it had nothing to do with the fact that she had spent the majority of her previous night keeping his son calm and dealing with his ex. Sy realized that she was shaking again. She was going to have to check in with sickbay yet again if it didn't stop. That psi inhibitor had started this and required other meds to be adjusted so that she was able to be functional. "But back to the Mystique and Luma'Lenai. Ensign Alyl has not had an opportunity to meet the entity and since he might be called upon to interact with her I suggest the three of us transport up together tomorrow at ten hundred hours. " Luma seriously intrigued Sy and she was looking forward to speaking with the Entity again. Sy would love to have been enough of a telepath to bond with Luma. She needed to talk with the entity about what she needed in a bondmate. "That gives us the opportunity to introduce him as well as make our requests known to her. I will arrange for a security escort to meet us at the runabout being used as interim transporter station." Sy couldn't remember if she had mentioned this, "I will ask Counselor Solice to accompany us. She is not a telepath, but she is a counselor and I think Luma would be ... aided by some counseling. " (reply Sekal iyw) As soon as the meeting was over, Sy stood up, catching herself on the desk as a wave of dizziness hit her. She needed to get out and away from them before she passed out again at Sekal's feet. She sincerely hoped he had not noticed. (if you want to follow her..) (Starfleet Martian Ground Facilities – Science Annex– aACSO's Office- aACSO, Ensign Sekal– 1049) The female science officer's body language had been showing him subtle hints, primarily arms hugging her torso as though chilled or to keep herself from shaking. From her distracted manner he wondered if she was even aware of it. "I will ask Counselor Solice to accompany us. She is not a telepath, but she is a counselor and I think Luma would be ... aided by some counseling. " Sekal nodded. "Agreed." He then turned his head to Jaton. "Is there anything else you wish to cover Ensign Alyl? (Reply: Alyl, room for more) The meeting wound to its inevitable conclusion and he dismissed both officers in time for an early lunch. As they were rising to their feet Verin stumbled against the desk and paused for an instant to gather herself before leaving. Sekal caught Alyl's eye and shook his head as he rose to follow her from the room. (Reply: Alyl) When the door had closed Sekal stood to his feet. "Ensign Verin is not well, I will see to her. You are free to take your lunch unless you wish to assist." (Reply: Alyl) The Vulcan moved to the door and stepped out, his primary duty was to see that the department ran smoothly and the well being of the officers and staff was by no means of secondary importance. (Mar Base, Medical, Medical/Counselor, Ensign J.G. Quinna Solice 10:51) Quinna stifled a yawn as she listened to the meeting. She was happy that Dr. Bracken was Acting aCMO. I leadership structure was needed, but everyone seemed to be doing well working together. Quinna knew she would hate to have to make reports to the admiral with little sleep. Making note of additional duties, she grabbed the PADD in front of her and jotted down that she needed to get with Science Department. She was debating to go right after the meeting or go to bed for a quick nap. “I am concerned that we are not fully equipped yet. A full inventory is not completed.” Quinna. (Reply any Medics) “We have some new kit arrived. I’ve procured some brand new medical kits, they’ll be with your duty stations, top of the range Kassa Fabrication equipment. We also have parts on order to repair the type 6 scanners, and new sets of mark V holoprojectors for the diagnostic suite. It’s a lot of information, and as normal I can’t keep my mouth shut, so…enough from me…any questions?” “Where did you get this medical stuff?” Kasian asked then followed again “how did you procure such expensive items. It’s not like mark V holoprojectors are easy to get we only got them 3 years ago in the hospital on Trill. (Reply any) “I can get things categorized and organized in night shift tonight if you like.” Quinna liked to volunteer since it was going to be a long night shift. (Reply Any) (Played by Kris) (Starfleet Martian Ground Facilities – Main Triage, Staff room 2 - aACMO Ens(jg) Ailynn Bracken – 1054) "Sorry..." She smiled, but the smile didn't reach her eyes. "I was jut assigned here yesterday. I got in late last night and didn't fall into my bed until around 0300. I'm Alaya Ravenstone." She passed over her credentials disc to the part bajoran woman who was obviously heading the meeting. "I have not even had a chance to report into the CO, who I was told is an Admiral?" She smiled again, then accepted the coffee that a yeoman handed her. "If we have a minute, it would be great to meet the rest of the counselling and medical staff after the meeting." “Of course Alaya.” She gestured around the table. Counsellor Trei is also one of our Counselling staff, as technically is Dr Solice, but only while where assigned off base, while she’s here she’s one of the Medical team. There’s plenty of ante rooms down the way, or even up in the Counselling Department, I understand things are taking shape nicely up there, take a few minutes to meet each other. “We have some new kit arrived. I’ve procured some brand new medical kits, they’ll be with your duty stations, top of the range Kassa Fabrication equipment. We also have parts on order to repair the type 6 scanners, and new sets of mark V holoprojectors for the diagnostic suite. It’s a lot of information, and as normal I can’t keep my mouth shut, so…enough from me…any questions?” “I am concerned that we are not fully equipped yet. A full inventory is not completed.” Quinna mentioned to her. “As am I to be honest, however, there’s only so many of us, and we have a lot of time, deligate what you can to junior staff and enlisted. As before, sort things out into what can be recycled, put other things that may be tradeable into the same separate pile. “I can get things categorized and organized in night shift tonight if you like.” Quinna offered. Ailynn half nodded. “Okay, but take it easy. After you’ve met with the Counselling team, you’re off shift. I’ll pick up your rounds. Get a decent meal, and some proper sleep. That can be considered an order if you need it to be.” (Reply Solice IYW) "Where did you get this medical stuff?” Kasian asked then followed again “how did you procure such expensive items. It’s not like mark V holoprojectors are easy to get we only got them 3 years ago in the hospital on Trill. Ailynn shrugged, “Fair question, and yes they are new, and horribly expensive, but we needed them. We needed a new set of medkits, might as well have the best, the holoemitters were a lucky find. There’s a junk dealer out near the nearby town. On the face of it, his shop is just that. Tourist tat, museum pieces and junk. However, his special list is worth looking at. When I graduated my Great Grandfather – do you remember him Kaz, on the vineyard? – anyway, he gave me a sealed vial of latinum. For my own use, no questions ever asked. I don’t think even mum knew. I traded that in for the medkits, holoprojectors and the new focussing rings for the diagnostic scanners.” (Reply Poldan) “Anyone else?” (reply IYW) (Mar Base, Medical, Medical/Counselor, Ensign J.G. Quinna Solice 11:03) Quinna was relieved to be out of the meeting, she was going to take Bracken literally and leave for a real meal and a long slumber. She only had to stop at the med terminal she had been working at and sign off. Just before she did, A message came in for her. "This is Ensign Williams contacting Counselor Solice, could you be available tomorrow at 1000 hours to accompany the science team to the Mystique, please?" “Yes, Yes I can.” Quinna replied. “Do you know where I need to go to meet up with the team?” "Yes, Runabout Delilah landing padd. We will be using the Runabout's transporters. I should be there early, or the Vulcan ACSO, Ensign Sekal will be there. If possible it would be useful for you to meet with one of us before tomorrow to brief you on the situation. Please." Without no reply, the communication ended. Quinna wasted no time logging out and heading out of medical. She could not decide if she wanted to eat or sleep. (Reply if Any) (Played by Kris) (Starfleet Martian Ground Facilities – Science Annex – Ensign Verin's Office - aACSO, Ensign Sekal– 1105) He had given her enough of a head start that she reached her office well before him and had verified her location using the locator in her combadge by inquiring the base computer. The door to her office opened and he stepped in and glanced around. An opened tricorder lay on the desk. Ensign Verin stood by the replicator in obvious discomfort and her face was pale. Not as pale as when he had carried her to medical and she had strength enough to make her displeasure known to the device. Although the main annex had received a thorough adjustment by the technical staff yesterday this part of the labs was still in disarray. He made a mental note to detail a team to rectify the issues here as soon as the lunch period was over. The look she gave at his appearance was one of resignation rather than defiance as she sipped the second drink taken from the replicator. "Yes Sir?" He stopped before her desk and cupped his hands behind his back as he balanced lithely on the balls of his feet. "As you have noted today there is much about emotional beings of which I do not understand..." he dipped his chin slightly then returned to his full posture, " ... however I am well acquainted with basic medical training. You have shown irritability, dizziness, chills or tremors and your features are pale. I have also witnessed you being given medications that in some cases in combination have shown marked side effects in anxiety and destabilization of biochemical and neuro receptor function. In my estimation then it is quite possible you are nearing a relapse from the issues assumed to have been dealt with last evening. Do you deny this?" She pointed to the tricorder. "You are welcome to look at the readings. I suspect you are going to regardless." "You would be correct in your assumption." He picked up the device and reactivated the screen which returned to its prior readings. He studied it for a moment then nodded and turned it off before speaking. "I reviewed your report from medical which the Admiral forwarded to me before the meeting along with that of the request for shift designations in the event of that function. I am aware of the genetic issues caused by your heritage and while I am not expert on Betazoid biochemistry it is obvious your neuro-transmitter and blood glucose levels are out of balance." He cast a look at the sugary looking concoction she was sipping,. "It is evident that a return trip to medical for a followup is in order. While your dedication is commendable it is a concern that you were not removed from duty today to allow for a full recovery." (Reply: Verin) "At any rate you are now off duty to allow time for that recovery. Check in with medical for tests and any necessary treatment and you will not return to duty before zero nine hundred tomorrow In addition I will check in with doctor Bracken concerning medical clearance before that occurs." (Reply: Verin) "Have you already notified a counselor of tomorrow's excursion?" (Reply: Verin) "Excellent..." he returned the tricorder to the desk, "... you are dismissed Ensign Verin. Your orders for the remainder of the day are treatment and rest. If there are any issues contact me." He waited till she departed the office then followed her out. (Reply: Verin iyw) (Posted by Charles Gatling) (Starfleet Martian Ground Facilities – Science Annex – Ensign Verin's Office (Off the Arboretum directly) - SO Ensign Sienna Williams-Verin– 1103) In her office she sat down heavily in her desk chair and took a long, slow deep breath to calm herself. She then placed the call, "This is Ensign Williams contacting Counselor Solice, could you be available tomorrow at 1000 hours to accompany the science team to the Mystique, please?" (reply) "Yes, Runabout Delilah landing padd. We will be using the Runabout's transporters. I should be there early, or the Vulcan ACSO, Ensign Sekal will be there. If possible it would be useful for you to meet with one of us before tomorrow to brief you on the situation. Please." Sy tried to put a smile into her voice as she spoke, reaching down to her personal bag and pulling out her tricorder. As soon as the audio circuit closed, Sy flipped open her tricorder and ran it over her torso and head, then when it beeped, flipped it around to study the readings. She hoped her replicator was working, she needed glucose first, then food, then to go see sickbay, likely in that order. As she had suspected, the lack of sleep and food was throwing her further off balance and her neuro-transmitter levels were ridiculously high or low, but few were within the acceptable range. She turned towards the replicator, "Computer, are you capable of creating southern sweet iced tea, high caffeine and glucose content?" =^= Aye Karumba! =^= The replicator hatch slid open and a steaming mug of sulpheric disgust rolled out from it. Nothing was ever -that- easy of course. She would have to go elsewhere to find sugar. She turned as the door closed and the Vulcan had appeared in her domain. She sighed internally. "Computer, that is not what I've ordered. Please recycle and try for a simple mixture of dextrose solution." What the computer produced the second time was a frozen cocktail that resembled a snowcone. It had sugar though, and might even be hydrating. She took a sip, wrinkled her nose in disgust and spoke, "Yes Sir?" Her tricorder was laying open on the desk, "You are welcome to look at the readings. I suspect you are going to regardless." (reply science meeting, Solice,Sekal, any) (posted by Mel) (Starfleet Martian Ground Facilities – Science Annex – Ensign Verin's Office -Ensign Sienna Williams-Verin – 1109) "I reviewed your report from medical which the Admiral forwarded to me before the meeting along with that of the request for shift designations in the event of that function. I am aware of the genetic issues caused by your heritage and while I am not expert on Betazoid biochemistry it is obvious your neuro-transmitter and blood glucose levels are out of balance. It is evident that a return trip to medical for a followup is in order. While your dedication is commendable it is a concern that you were not removed from duty today to allow for a full recovery." Sienna sat in her chair listening as her 'boss' spoke logical things she actually agreed with. She nodded along with him, "It was already in the plan. There are other reasons that have affected my recovery. I have been shorted on sleep the last few days since arriving. My brother..he has had some ... issues... since arriving. He has not been sleeping, nor have I as a result. Do you have siblings Ensign Saleke? Our bond is such... it is much like that of an Imzadi but without the romantic component. I know where he is, what he is doing. Since he left this morning, I lost contact and there is a very dark place inside me. My mind is convinced that he is dead. I have never been apart from him at this distance." She had no idea why she was admitting this to the vulcan. Did she trust him enough to not use this knowledge against her and in her best interests? This was the first steps in building that. "At any rate you are now off duty to allow time for that recovery. Check in with medical for tests and any necessary treatment and you will not return to duty before zero nine hundred tomorrow In addition I will check in with doctor Bracken concerning medical clearance before that occurs." Sy nodded, "There may be a conflict of interest with Dr. Bracken. I'll report in with Dr. Poldan if that is acceptable?" "Have you already notified a counselor of tomorrow's excursion?" He continued. She nodded, "Counselor Solice. She's a human, and also a skilled medic as well as a counselor. I thought that a non-telepath might be best for Luma, and that as a medic she might have some ideas?" "Excellent..." he returned the tricorder to the desk, "... you are dismissed Ensign Verin. Your orders for the remainder of the day are treatment and rest. If there are any issues contact me." Sy nodded again, standing and slowly leaving her office. Sekal watched her, and she did not notice that he had detailed one of the enlisted officers to accompany her to sickbay. She was preoccupied with making it there without passing out. (reply none) (posted by Mel) (Mars Facility – Security Complex, Main Security Office - SEC Ens(jg) Carson Peters – 1144) After the Admiral had left the security complex Carson had gone back to work with Officer Daedalus, he was auditing some of the customs check's completed by his security officers over the past few days. He'd flagged one that had happened early this morning for follow up when Daedalus passed him a padd which had already been signed off by Ens Jackson. "This one's been done already" Carson said as he passed it back. He hadn't had much time to get to know the younger Ensign yet. A brief few conversations whilst in meetings but the man always seemed to be busy in other sections of the base. He made the decision to correct this mistake and tapped his comm. badge "Ensign Peters to Jackson. I'm aware we've not had much time to catch up and get to know each other. I'm hoping you'd agree to meet for some lunch? I'm planning on checking in on the Red Sands Tavern once I've finished up in the Security Complex- fancy meeting me at around 1250?" he said and awaited the Ensigns response. (Reply Jacob Jackson) (Posted by Jono Bradley) (Mars Facility – Intelligence Offices - Ensign Eva Rozen – 1205) After Eva and her aunt left the Admiral and his proclamation that he did not trust them they went back to the basically damaged intelligence offices. They had been trying to repair the intelligence equipment before Her aunt decided to go looking around for better offices for them. The power thy had to work with was minimal, she had managed to get a portable lantern to work so she could see what she was doing. Not having the right amount of light slowed her work down. She was about to get another piece of equipment working when she someone enter the room. She moved to a darker part of the room to see who and probe who had entered. She felt the Admiral before she saw him, and as he was lookingg around she stepped into the light behind him as he asked “Anyone around?”, she saw him make a move to reach for his phaser and was glad that he had none. "Hello Admiral" she answered, she saw his sudden movement hearing her behind him. "Sorry sir, the power to the lights are not a high priority here. We have been making do with any light we can make. ?" (reply Admiral, any) "Sorry sir, she is out looking for better accomodations for us, is there anything I can do for you in the meantime, sir?" she asked knowing he probably wanted something. (Reply from Admiral and/or Peters) (Mars Facility – Intelligence Offices - CO Admiral Remae Ktell – 1209) Remae was looking around the shadowy intelligence offices and right on queue, someone appeared next to him. "Sorry sir, the power to the lights are not a high priority here. We have been making do with any light we can make.”, said Ensign Rozen. The Betzaoid appeared out of thin air with the one purpose on scaring the Admiral. “On your own, Ensign? Where is Ensign Foxglove?”, he asked, pulling himself to together. "Is there anything I can do for you in the meantime, sir?", she asked and Remae looked around for a moment. ~ Only about a million things ~ “No, Ensign, I am just walking around. We’ve not heard a lot from Intel since we got here, you should try and be more… social, since we’re all working together.”, he said nodding at the Ensign and then added, “I will see what I can do about the lights for you.”, he added and then started walking towards the light and escape of the open door. “See you later, Ensign.”, and then he was gone, leaving the shadowy offices of the intelligence community behind. (Reply from Any) (Posted by Anthony Keen) (Starfleet Martian Ground Facilities – Shara living quarters room 103 joint living section – civilian specialist Kora– 1550) Kora entered her assigned quarters that she would be sharing with her step son Ensign Ravok Shara. Upon entering she noticed the living area contained a couch, a coffee table with an unopened bottle of klingon bloodwine on it , and a desk with a built in terminal. On the wall to her right was a large view screen for entertainment purposes primarily. There was no window and the couch looked like it had never been used before. Everything was spotless. As she stepped into the quarters and the door shut behind her the large view screen turned on. There was a message waiting to be played . Kora sat her belongings down and took a seat on the couch . The message statred to play. It was her step son Ravok on the screen. ::""Hi mom , If your seeing this , welcome to Mars. Things have been hectic here . Between trying to do my job and trying to fit in with my fellow officers, my head is spinning. You told me that I need to be more like them . More sociable. Its against my nature but I am trying my best. I swear I'm better off just keeping to myself and observing everyone . Everytime I open my mouth I feel like im digging myself a deeper and deeper into the dirt. Maybe one day I get it , maybe one day I will be more like you. Anyways Iast night we had something called a viking night ...its an earth traditional not so different from klingons celebrating a victory before the battle even starts . Ensign Trip Williams believed it was good for building trust and friendship. He even welcomed me to his family and shared a Williams family traditional alcoholic beverage with us. I am ...honored and feel privileged to be accepted into his great family tradition."":: The message played Kora smiled at the joy on her sons face " You poor poor boy your going to take that literally " she said smiling ear to ear . The message continued .... :: "I also learned a game called air hockey . Ensign Petrova said it's a Russian game that was stolen from them and that all great things come from Russia. She was victorious. She probably thinks I let her win. Maybe the next time we play I will beat her. I look forward to getting to know her and maybe one day considering her a friend, and no mother not like that. I believe shes interested in someone else. Trip ordered me to get mentally cleared to fly after hearing about my loss, our loss . He thought I would be emotionally compromised and a flight risk. I tried objecting but I made a fool of myself and I believe I have sullied our relationship. Hopefully he truly forgives me one day. But I have done as you have told me when it comes to loosing a loved one . I have accepted they are dead and I must move on . Dad is in Vorta Vor and perhaps even saving me a spot. I'm rambling, look I've got to go. Trip wants to have a meeting before the mission. So I will see you when we return. Oh real before I forget enjoy the bottle of bloodwine its 102 years old and authentic. SoS vImuSHa' SoH (( KLINGON((I love you mother)):: Ravok ending true message with. Smile. Kora picked up the bottle of bloodwine and stood up and to Ravoks bedroom to take a peak. His room was spotless and clean ~ Always has been such a neat boy ~ she thought to herself. She left his room and walked to her room and walked in noticing right away that her room was bigger . Ravok had given her the bigger room. Kora smiled and shook her head " He certainly knows how to treat his mother" She placed her belongings in her room and placed the bottle of bloodwine in there as well. She had just arrived and already had a meeting with the acting chief engineer. Ensign Merek. ( reply none ) ( posted by davis) (Starfleet Martian Ground Facilities – Sub-Basement 4 - Main Engineering - E/SYO Ensign Boone Foster - 1718) Ensign Merek moved on and began giving her suggestions to the other engineers for tasks that needed their attention. She turned her attention to Boone. “Ensign Foster, I didn’t forget about you, do you have any experience with transporters?” She asked. "My fair share ma'am," Boone responded. He thought back to Echo Earth and how everyday for weeks it was his sole job to man the transporter. Most days, it was never even used. He recalled having to find ways to entertain himself for hours. “Good, I want you to start working on the transporter system. It’s time we stopped having to shuttle everywhere, or set up the runabouts as a relay.” She said. “I haven’t taken a look at them myself, I don’t know what kind of shape it’s in, just that it is currently non-functioning, the parts might be on back order that might explain why it hasn’t been fixed yet.” "Sure will." Boone was looking forward to starting a big project. He felt pressured to prove his abilities. “Once Castile gets his foundry up and running we may be able to start fabricating parts the old fashioned way by machining them. He may be able to slap together a transporter coil or something similar.” She offered. "Thank ya." Ensign Foster looked over at Castile and gave him a smile and small nod. It seemed Keira was finished. The officers there broke apart, and some left. Ensign Boone stayed seated momentarily and took some notes on his PADD about the transporter system. (reply any) (posted by Calvin Capps) (Mars Facilities - Red Sands Tavern - Civilian specialist Kora- 19.32) Kora walked into the red sands, exploring her Surroundings . She noticed a young Klingon woman on stage ready to perform. Kora had her experience with hearing many people perform music from many worlds. She was none the less intrigued. ~ this should be interesting ~ Kora thought to herself as she made her way to the front . The young woman on stage looked tense perhaps even nervous. Kora locked eyes with the young woman on stage. And nodded her head to her and with a smile mouthed the words " Relax , you got this " Kora took a seat . The young man at the table she sat down at looked at Kora and said " Excuse me this seat is taken" Kora turned to the young man and smiled " Well I'm glad your eyes are working sweetheart , yes it's taken by me" she turned her eyes back to the stage . Waiting for the performer to begin.... (reply Trei, reply any) ( posted by davis ) (Mars Facilities - Red Sands Tavern - ENS jg Counselor Ariel Trei - 19.35) She saw Kora sit-in one of the front tables. She was glad someone came to see her perform. She was feeling nervous but she felt calm somehow. She went over to the music generator and pressed some buttons to call up a couple of warm-up songs. The first is Dreams by Fleetwood Mac but most vocals by Stevie Nicks. The second one will be Magic Man by Heart. She moved on the stage like a karaoke party girl as the song began. She embodied Stevie Nicks as she began. "Here you go again say you want your freedom. Who am I to keep you down. It's only Riiiiiiiiiiiiight that you should play the way you feel it. But listen careeeefullllly to the sound of your loneliness. Like a heartbeat that drives you mad. In the stillness of remembering what you had and what you lost. What you haaaaaaaaaaaaaad and what you lost. Thunder only haaaaaaaaaaaaaapons when it's raining. Players only loooooooooooooooooooove you when they're playing. Say women they will come and they will go. When the rain washes you clean you'll know you'll know.." The chorus finished and she let the musical break run a bit before starting the second verse. (Reply Kora Any) (Posted by Edward) (Starfleet Martian Ground Facilities – Personal Quarters - aACMO – Ens(jg) Ailynn Bracken and SO Ens(jg) Sienna Verin-Williams - 2145) Ailynn spent a lot longer than usual in the shower, after going through her normal routine, she’d treated herself to her favourite hair oil, and then just let the warm water run over her shoulders, loosening the knots that had formed there. Eventually satisfied, she stepped out, dried herself and her hair, and pulled on clean underwear and some plain dark grey gym leggings, and a pale yellow exercise top. Sighing slightly, she looked round the room. It was sparse at best, no real sense of the person that slept here. A few photos stood on her desk, happy times with mum, Dale and herself, all in dress uniform at her graduation. Other pictures stood next to them, each filling her heart with a tiny hint of emptiness, as a hint of homesickness set in. She’d been out of sorts all evening, the set that she’s played in the bar had given her the bug again to pick up her instrument and really play, not to perform, but to really play for the love of the music, but she’d found that she couldn’t concentrate. Then she’d picked up a PADD to continue her studies of something, but somehow “Neuralbiomechanics: Volume 5” wasn’t doing it for her tonight either. So eventually she’d given up and gone for a shower, and now stood, in the largely empty, characterless, although admittedly very tidy room, sat down with a glass of water, and felt a tiny bit sorry for herself. She knew that she could just get up, and go and speak to people, lots of people, but she’d sat down now, and that would mean getting up again. Sy had a terrible day. She had returned to her quarters to try and unwind, not wanting to be around anyone, and she had intended to unpack, but that had not happened. She was unsettled and angry, confused and conflicted and frustrated. She hated her room, and had no inclination to fix the things that were bothering her about it, after all, she spent very little time actually there. The medications had been causing her depression as they sometimes did, and she wished that there was a cure for her incompatibilities. Most people who were hybrids did it well, she on the other hand got the genetic short end of the stick and had caused her Mother to be unable to bear any other children, in a world where most medical issues were easily corrected. She had tried sitting on the couch, she had tried to start unpacking, she had tried several other things, including playing with the cat, Kenna. It wasn’t until she was sobbing into Kenna’s fur that she had realized that the real issue was that she couldn’t sense Trip. It was like a black hole where he always was, and that sense being gone was wreaking havoc on her. She knew she should probably report in to a counselor, or to medical to get something to help her to sleep. Inquiring of the computer, she found out that Ailynn was in her personal quarters, so Sy thought for a moment before moving over to the replicator. “Computer, please replicate chocolate covered almonds, chocolate covered pretzals, chocolate cake in containers appropriate for travel..” As each item appeared, Sy transferred the containers into a small handwoven betazoid basket that had green ribbons woven through it. Sy had bought it for Ailynn originally but had never had a chance to give it to her. She looked around, thought for a moment, then went back into her room. A sturdy wooden crate sat in the middle of the floor, containing things she had asked for in her last letter home. Digging into it, she found the matching silk ribbons she had bought on a whim in japan on earth, the white silk ribbon woven through with a pretty pink that was cherry blossoms. She had remembered thinking that cherry blossoms were something that seemed to fit Linnie, beautiful and delicate, hardy and fragile and adaptable. She had never noticed that she had begun to pick up so many small gifts for Linnie over the last few months. A small stuffed cat that reminded her of Kenna. A choker from Risa that she had found in a consignment shop made of handmade glass beads in that particular blue of starfleet medical. A rose gold pin of the staff and serpents that had long represented medication on Terra. So many small things. She hadn’t realized how much and it wasn’t just like she could flood Linnie with all this right now. She picked up the pin, the cat and the ribbons, leaving the necklace there. It was the most expensive thing and that might further confuse matters between the girls. Sy sighed and leaned her aching head against the wall, before heading to the Park, where she had seen some rather pretty wildflowers then to Linnie’s place, the basket over one arm, the flowers now tied with the silk ribbons, and in the other she had a pizza she had stopped at the officer’s mess replicators to get, half with her preferred toppings of sausage and mushroom, and half with Linnie’s choices. Sy hit the chime, dressed in a long comfortable silk blend caftan that came from Betazed that was both lush and simple, comfortable and stylish. Her hair was pulled back and tied, and she wore no makeup, showing starkly that she had been crying for the last several hours. When Linnie finally answered the door, Sy looked up at her, “I need to not be alone.” She spoke, offering the pizza to her friend, then the flowers, “And these are for you. If uh, you want them? I found the ribbons for you in Japan last year and forgot to give them to you?” Sienna was questioning in every sentence, unsure about anything right now other than she needed to not be alone after this day from hell. “And there is a beer in the basket I stole from Trip’s supply for you.” Sy didn’t presume that she was welcome in Linnie’s quarters. After all, Linnie was on the permanent access list now that they knew she was on the base, but Sy didn’t really know if either of them had actually told Linnie that. Ailynn looked up at the door when the chime sounded. Frowning slightly in confusion, she pulled herself up from the sofa, and stepped toward the door, opening it as she reached it. “Sienna! Come in I’m sorry to leave you outside.” Seeing that her arms were full, Ailynn didn’t try and give her her normal welcome hug. “Didn’t I set the door to open? Of course I didn’t. Computer. Give permanent access to Ensign Sienna Verin-Williams.” [Acknowledged. Permission granted] She took the pizza and flowers that Sienna gave her, she could smell the toppings, and placed it on the small table to the one side of her room. She then looked closely at the flowers, sniffing them gently, and touching the beautiful ribbon. “Sienna...these are beautiful!” She could feel her heart swell slightly, and her eyes fill. “I’ve never been…” she swallowed and wafted her face. “Thank you...you’re so thoughtful.” She gave her friend a gentle hug, “I was in such a funk before this…” She took a glass from her desk, and after pouring some water into it, carefully placed the beautiful, delicate flowers into it, being careful to keep the ribbon out of the water. She smiled as she placed the flowers on her nightstand, near her pillow. Sy watched Lynn and a small smile peeked through. Sy was not trying to sense anything and just watched, biting her lower lip in that bad habit she had when she was nervous. “I’m such a rubbish person. I never think to get you anything.” Ailynn took a proper look at her friends face, even Sy’s exotic beauty couldn’t hide the fact that she had been crying, Ailynn felt her smile fade. She was no empath of course, but over the years she’d found that she didn’t need to be with Sienna. “Honey, you’ve been crying…” She placed her cool, delicate hands on the points of Sienna’s shoulders. “What’s wrong? Please...sit down.” Her tone gentle and calming, worried even. “So ah. Yeah.” Sy refused to sit down, couldn’t sit down and after a really long moment of enjoying Ailynn's hands physically touching her, Sy begun pacing the small room. Her room was bigger but she shared the suite, and she found herself so confused. “I have never been this far from him. I’ve always been near him. Like in the same city, near each other, the furthest was when he would go with Dad to the spacedocks to help with the ship, but I could still feel him. Around 1030 when I was dragged into the science meeting, I completely lost touch with him. I had just found out Sekal was picked over me to head the department, Trip was picked, I was told you were picked too, and I… I was so angry. I’m still angry. Not at you." Sy quickly amended. "At me. Trip is on a journey to ruin the career that was deposited in his lap, that if i had been so lucky to have -command- dropped into my life..I wouldn’t be on a self destructive crash course like he is. And I can't sleep Linnie. I feel so broken and messed up and nothing is working out right…" she finally sat down, well rather plopped down, causing the caftan to show more skin than was polite. " And I am scared." Sy finally admitted in a tiny, child like voice. "Really scared." The flash of leg shouldn’t have distracted her as much as it did, but for a second or two her train of thought came off the rails; pulling herself back together, she sat next to Sienna, taking both of her hands in her own. Sy did not pull back, instead curling her hands trustingly around Lynns. “Okay...first...breath. I’m here. I’m always here for you. You never have any reason to be scared or lonely, not while I’m near.” She motioned around the room. “I don’t have much, but company, a hug, a lie down...whatever... anytime night or day...it’s yours. My door is always open for you. That help any?” Sy looked around the room, noticing how sparse it was but did not say anything. Her own heart was racing, and her breath had been coming in short pants from the anxiety. Sy had thought it had been from trying not to drop the pizza and everything else. Not from the anxiety. Her mouth tasted sour and metallic. Ailynn spoke again, her tone, firm, but very gentle, and full of concern. “Sy...You need to try to calm down a bit. You’ve had a lot of medication in the last couple of days, all of which has assorted side effects including anxiety. That is not going to help you any. Now; before we even talk about your idiot brother, let’s look after you. When did you eat last?” Ailynn was all too aware that she’d fallen into her old role again, but this time, she wasn’t just ‘looking out for the younger girl next door.’ she was caring for someone who she genuinely cared deeply for. She was, admittedly, a Doctor, and it could be argued that it was her job; it felt different though. “Before we discuss anything else, let’s eat, and we can then talk about whatever you want for however long you want. Deal?” Sy looked into Lynn's hazel eyes and nodded, just a little bit. "I got you a real beer from Trip's supply. Something called Dos Equis." No matter how many times she had tried to say it, she pronounced it Yuckies. "This needs chilling, so maybe replicate a bucket of ice for it? I don't think you can actually pour beer over ice." Sy had tried almost all terran domestic beers before medical finally told her that all she would do is continue to make herself ill. Same for the vast majority of wines and spirits. There were very few she could actually drink and all of them were expensive with importation fees. Lynn knew and was so careful that when they partied, Sy's shots were always the few that would not leave her desiring death the next day. Ailynn stood up, and replicated a small bucket of ice to put the beer in, she put it on the floor by the sofa and sat back down, before replicating the drink that she remembered Sy always had with Pizza. “You are the most thoughtful…” she hadn’t finished her sentence before Sienna continued, her awkward energy was so charming that she found her heart warming. "And uh, other stuff…" Sy took out the chocolate covered snacks, then the cake setting them to the side. The last few things were the other gifts she had for her friend. “Sweetie, I’m supposed to be looking after you…” she laughed gently, “Has mum been on at you to feed me up or something? This is so lovely.” She leant over, and opened the pizza box, serving a couple of slices of each of the halves onto plates for them. “Here. you’ll feel better. We’ll eat this, and then some of that amazing looking cake.” She passed over the plate with the sausage and mushroom; her own was pepperoni and a touch of anchovy, a combination that always got her shouted at on the vineyard, but for some reason had always hit her palate well. Sy took a bite of her pizza, “No..” She spoke softly after chewing, “It was because I was feeling awful and wanted chocolate. And I wanted to be with you. After we eat I’ll give you the other two things that I found when unpacking that I had bought for you. Well, there were several things I had bought for you, but then chickened out on giving to you.” She blushed. Darkly. Admitting that was super hard. Ailynn found herself giddy, although not outwardly a shy, retiring girl she was prone to loneliness. The good company was cheering her up a lot, but that actually only reminded her how bad Sienna was feeling. She ate a few mouthfuls of her pizza, framing the next train of thought in her mind. “So...Now your eating, and I can certainly see that you’re relaxing a bit. What do you want to talk about first?” She finished one slice, reached down to test the temperature of the beer, and then stopped herself, half a thought hitting her mind. “Turn around, as best you can. Back to the side of the sofa, and give me your feet.” She wiped her fingers on a cloth, and smiled gently Sy seemed skeptical but did as requested, smiling shyly back as she picked up the giddiness from Ailynn. As she moved, more skin was shown, but in different places. Not sexual, more tantalizing, and as a Betazoid, Sy was unconcerned with nudity. “Humour me, have I ever let...okay...yes I have, and badly. Trust me here though.” She watched as Sienna turned carefully around, and then lifted her feet onto her lap. Removing her shoes. She picked up one of Sienna’s feet, and gently, but firmly, rubbed the sole very carefully. “Look, you have an ability that I can never have, and barely understand, I can’t even begin to imagine what you’re going through.” Sy sighed and closed her eyes as Linnie gave her a foot massage. “What ability?” She asked curiously, eyes still closed, “The empathy? Which, I should warn you, the touching makes much clearer and harder to block out and I don’t want to invade your privacy. At all. But I can’t help it either and I’m so sorry.” Sy grumped just a teeny bit as Linnie stopped the foot massage. Ailynn shrugged “I don’t know, the empathy...the twin thing...any of it to be honest.” “Oh the twin thing? Yeah. I know, I mean I’ve heard it’s more intense for identical twins, but what we have is pretty intense as it is. Linnie I literally can’t sleep unless he’s sleeping. If we’re on opposite shifts when the ship time comes, I don’t know what’s going to happen. And… Linnie I miss him. What happens when he leaves me?” Her voice choked on the last line. “What if he dies? People talk about what it’s like to lose a sibling, but to lose your twin? He’s like… he’s like what people say their imzadi is, but it’s not sexual or romantic. He’s always there. And he’s not right now. I feel dull and dark and hollow.” She admitted the last, feeling completely ashamed. “I can’t even begin to understand the feeling, the emptiness, but here’s the thing. You can’t live his life for him...You can’t borrow his troubles as well as your own hun. You have enough issues of your own. Especially when you don’t visit your gorgeous family Doctor for your meds, and don’t look after yourself.” She shook Sienna’s foot, playfully telling her off. She then took a few more bites of her pizza, wiped her fingers once more, and switched to the other foot. Sy laughed just a teeny bit at the tickling sensation that was occurring from Linnie’s fingers hitting very sensitive places on her foot. “No, I can’t but Linnie, he’s making such stupid mistakes. I’m worried about him and Dad said I HAVE to look after him. Mom knew I already would but Dad felt the need to tell me. Dad seems to see Trip as his kid, his legacy and blood heir. I’ve always felt like not enough with Dad.” Linnie’s talented fingers found a spot deep in the arch of Sy’s right foot that caused Sy to groan aloud, arching her back as that spot was pressed hard on, something about it making her relax when Linnie let it go. Sy just...melted. The pizza was too far away, she was still hungry and she had presents she still wanted to give to Linnie. She smiled warmly as Sienna obviously relaxed perhaps a little too much. “I must remember that place” Ailynn said as Sienna began to relax, and almost melt into her couch. It took Sy a few moments for her eyes to readjust to the light in the room after she had reopened them. “Lemme sit up, and you can have your presents. Linnie..” She sighed, “I thought i was buying you the small things like I would buy for Trip, but I started to unpack and lemme tell you, I need a lot of help there too, unpacking that is, but yeah you do too, except is your stuff in storage or just not here yet? This room isnt’ a home Linnia. It’s a barely adequate cell.” Sy frowned as she caught something from Linnie. Some strange emotion she couldn’t figure out. Her heart pounded as Sy looked down into Linnie's hazel eyes for a long moment. Standing up, and stretching as Sienna sat up and pulled herself straight. Ailynn took her plate and put more pizza on it, and moved the small table within reach of the sofa, then sat back down, reaching down toward the bucket, lifted up and opened the beer, took a sip, and placed it on the table within reach of each of them, offering to share. She then sat back down again, unknowingly closer to Sienna this time. “Yeah, I know, It’s a bed and a table, I don’t need anything else. Your flowers brighten the place up, they’re gentle and beautiful. " Sy blurted out, "So are you…" and blushed again. "Beautiful that is. Gentle when you want to be." She leaned over to the basket and dug out the two gifts, "The kitty because, well Kenna.." referencing the colorpoint ragdoll cat that Sy adored and Trip barely tolerated. "And this I had made for when you were getting your med license but Linnie it wasnt ready and I guess Mum slipped it into my stuff." Sy passed over the stuffed kitty and the rosegold pin. "Like I said, other stuff in my room for you but I just forgot, no. Not the right word. Was too afraid to just outright give them to you. " Ailynn blushed most embarrassed, in truth she’d never seen herself as overly attractive. The guys and some of the girls at school had always said ‘you’re cute’ in that irritating manner when they had little else interesting to say about someone. Maybe Trip had been correct, maybe she had been a cold fish who never let anyone close to her. The warmth of the compliment touched her heart as did all the little gifts. “The staff of aesulapius...Sy this is beautiful, and the cat...Aww my little angel Kenna.” She’d always called the cat her little angel, Ailynn herself would admit she had a very soft spot for Sy’s cat. “ Sy sighed again, "Well. You do need other things. Can you help me unpack later? And I know I have extras and if they suit you… Look Linnie, your room is your haven and sanctuary. Work is for the office, it is why we have offices. We are not androids or robots, we have personalities and those touches relax us and put a permanence on our world. And in the office, those touches also relax others. Having such a sterile environment will make it so much harder for your patients to relate to you. So we will work on here and your office." The wheels in Sy's head were turning. She snuggled up against Linnie for a long moment, laying her head of Linnie's shoulder, the most adventurous and physically close Sy had ever gotten. Something had changed and Sy was not as defensive about it as she had been when Trip brought it up, but her twin had also been attempting to pick a fight at the time. Ailynn felt her heart skip, and her emotions cloud with confusion even more, as she turned her sometimes judgmental mirror toward herself, she was forced to admit quite a few things. Her feelings toward Sienna had changed considerably over the years, from her late teens, to her wilder party days, and now, to this moment, she was now admitting to herself for the first time ever, and that added another layer of fear to her. Sy’s closeness was wrecking her carefully constructed defences, the ones that all to often hemmed her in, rather than keeping things out. "I do not know how bajorans feel about not heterosexual relationships, and I … I am more Betazoid than human. And you were like my Sisar.." she picked the betazoid word unconsciously, "But we are adults now and my feelings are not just sisterly. They are so much more. Confusing? Like if I could have anything right now it would be this. Us together. Well, would like Trip within sensing distance but… " she blew out an exasperated sigh. "And I really have no idea how you feel. I get flashes now and then but nothing concrete or I would not be so frightened. " another soft sigh. Shifting her weight slightly, she remembered what Sienna said about contact, and gently ran her delicate surgeons fingers over Sienna’s exposed upper arm, leaning her own head onto hers. “If your frightened...then I’m truly petrified, but then I have so many neuroses that that probably clouds the real emotions that I have for you, because they’re deeper than I’ve ever experienced, and that frightens me too.” "Just… please don;t send me home by myself tonight unless you also plan to send something strong enough to knock out an elephant." Sy knew she needed to seriously talk with Ailynn in a professional capacity but that was not tonight. Sienna closed her eyes and waited to be rejected. For the second time that evening, Ailynn wished that she were some kind of empath, she pulled away from her slightly, despite the comforting closeness, and looked at Sienna deep in the eyes, “If you want to look at how I feel, please do, because I have no idea what the words are.” She held both of Sienna’s hands in hers, and almost whispered. “I really want this too....” She paused. “I won’t send you anywhere. I promise.” She laughed gently. “Look at me…” she sighed. “I’m supposed to be the one looking after you... I feel like I’m a scared girl talking to her crush….I am...a scared girl talking to her crush.” Sy grinned, having opened her eyes when Linnie held her hands, Linnie’s feelings becoming crystal clear. “I kinda don’t know what to do either right now Lynn. But I’m really glad that you are here. I expected that I would lose out on you to Trip. Because.. I didn’t know that you liked girls, you never said, but then again I never said either and i wasn’t until recently that I realized that that I’ve never really been attracted sexually or romantically to anyone and that the closest I came was how I felt with you, but it was all mixed up in a mess. So uh.” She blushed again. “We can take this slow, for both of us. I don’t know how you feel about scary things like.. Like..intimacy…” Sy whispered that last word. “But however little or much you want.” She realised that her palms were sweaty, but she didn’t want to break the contact. “We’re both Scientists...adaptable people.” She felt like they were the only two people anywhere, her heart, felt full, and heavy; but it was a happy, nervous heavy, not a sad heavy. “Slow is best. I...A lot has happened and quickly, but with that said....there are a lot of kinds of intimacy. As to Trip, yeah he’s cute and I do love him very much, but how I feel about him is truly like a brother, with you it was always different, I don’t know why.” Sy kept her gaze locked on Linnie’s gorgeous hazel eyes, the skin to skin contact of their hands touching. She wasn’t sure what to do, her heart pounding. Sy had never progressed past kissing with anyone before, and she needed to tell Lynnie something else before it trickled down the grapevine. If it had not already done so. She didn’t want Lynn to be hurt. She reached over and picked up a chocolate covered almond, holding it in two fingers and offering it to Lynn. She had dreamt about feeding Lynn from her hands, and that she was finally getting a chance to do so was better than the dreams. Ailynn leaned forward and took the offered morsel in her teeth, chewing gently, she reached into the bowl, and lifted another out holding it out in return. Smiling gently. Sy grinned and took one, taking the time to slowly lick a dab of the melted chocolate from Lynn’s finger. She didn’t go any further, not trusting herself, not wanting to ruin this. It was so good and she wanted it to last forever. “I can’t have you going back on your own...Stay? There’s a lot of these, and I...could do with a hug?” Lynn offered. Sy’s dark eyes lit up in joy. “We don’t have to eat it all tonight, I just thought… Well, I thought even if I didn’t tell you how I felt that it would be a girl’s night in. A holo vid, pizza, chocolate, chatting. But this is even better.” Sy looked around for a moment, “You don’t have a holo-vid player. We have one in the suite’s common room. Oh, when we realized that you were here, we set you to permanent access to the suite. I don’t know if you can access Trip’s room, but you certainly can mine.” She smiled widely, and looked away for a moment, “And there is something I really need to tell you.” Ailynn looked at Sienna, her face falling into a slight questioning frown. “okaaaay?” “You remember all those stupid functions we had to go to with our parents? And how we often would be forced to escort someone? And how I would escort Buddy Jacobs because he was so seriously gay and he couldn’t stand having another girl around him?” She sighed. “Rings a faint bell?” Ailynn answered, slightly confused as to where this was going. “Well, last night I literally ran into Kasian in the hallways and he had some stupid family dinner with his mother that he was avoiding and his emotions were all over the place, and so I took him into my room and talked to him for about thirty minutes to calm him down. He had lied and told his mother that he had met a girl and was falling desperately in love with her. His Mom’s the trill ambassador and well, thinks that she has a right to pressure him into an arranged marriage, and …” Sy took a deep breath, “I dug out a dress and some heels and went with him to the dinner and it was absolutely horrible Lynn. His Mother is so manipulative and that icecycle that she picked for him could not be a worse fit for the poor guy. There’s something going on with his Dad apparently being resurrected from the dead and just a ton of family drama. Honestly the only good thing about the dinner was that food. His Mom refused to believe I couldn’t drink, she just, ugh. It was awful. I know he’s one of your Docs and I didn’t want the scuttlebutt to reach you and honestly if he asked me today to do it again I would have said no. Especially with Trip waking me up at 6 am to tell me all about his night with Miss Alex.” Sy wrinkled her nose in disgust. “He’s a nice guy though. And I’m super interested in talking to him further about the trill and symbiosis and what that’s like, but I’m not interested in him. At all. I did the dinner thing on a lark, and I didn’t even kiss him. I don’t think his Mom bought the story either. So yeah. Full disclosure. You know how rumors are in starfleet.” Sy paused, “And I want nothing stupid to mess this up.” She whispered the last words. Ailynn smiled. “It’s okay.” There was a lot to say in reply, about how much she herself knew about the Kasion and Jaton situation, about Aunty Addison being another of her moms’ old Hades friends. Actually, as she came to think about it, She had rather a lot of explaining to do herself. "I have got a lot to tell you too. Clean slate. " Sy audibly breathed a sigh of relief then yawned in the most not sexy way possible. The reality vs the fiction of romance. "Linnie, finding things I think you would like and giving them to you. I have a lot of small stuff and some not so small and inexpensive.. I accumulated it for a while and just was too scared. Its not that I need or expect anything and I promise I am not trying to buy your affection but.. every time I found something that I thought you would like I would get it and think of the way your entire face lights up and the way your emotions are visible and clear and uncluttered for a few seconds. You are you and not the person you feel you have to be for your Mum." Sy tugged Linnie close again, wiggling a little until she had Linnie wrapped in her arms. Linnie was taller than Sy (everyone mostly is, guessing here) but it worked with them sitting. "Still hungry?" Sy asked, unsure of what she was sensing was physical hunger or something else. Ailynn wearily shook her head. “I just need to stretch out in the warm. Lets just take this hug over there. Or I’m going to be asleep right here.” She felt her worry subside, there may be awkward conversations to be had later, but for now. She was content. "Weeeellll…." Sy whispered, her warm breath tickling Ailynn's ear, "Shall we goto bed then? Up to you on what if anything we wear, but I just want to sleep and be comforted. We can worry about the other stuff in the morning and if you want me to see one of the other Docs, I will." She yawned again, trying to suppress it, but Lynn could feel her body doing it. Sy was more content than she had been in days. Sy let Lynn go, then stood up, taking her hand and leading her to the bed. They had shared a bed before on sleepovers and while camping, but this was different and it felt so right. Sy dropped the caftan to the floor, standing beside Lynn. "I can replicate some pjs if you want…" “Slowly remember…” Ailynn said, the angel on her left shoulder overrulling the daemon on her right. She was trying to keep a grip on things. “It may be best.” Sienna nodded, walking naked over to the replicator, "Computer one Set of Cami and Boxers, size large, color sapphire." It shimmered into being and Sy slipped them on, unconcerned with nudity. She turned back, "Better?" She asked softly. Ailynn nodded gently, and ordered her normal nightwear, before slipping them on, and sliding into the bed. She felt drained, physically and emotionally. Sy waited for Lynn to get into bed, then took the outside, more protective position and curled her warmer body about Lynns. She waited a moment then spontaneously kissed the side of Lynn's head, "You are the most precious gift and this is a moment I will always remember. " You did not have to be an empath to hear The care and concern in her voice. In the darkness, Ailynn smiled deeply, shifting over into a gentle embrace. No appropriate words would come to her, but she wriggled a bit closer, and turned slightly to place a gentle peck on Sy’s shoulder, then rested her head. Deeply contented. Sleep, she knew, would not be far away. Sy stayed awake savouring the moment but when Lynn fell asleep, Sy was moments behind, sleeping for the first time away from her twin, Lynn's emotions a comforting almost tangible thing. For the first time since coming to the station she relaxed enough to sleep. (Reply none) (Posted by Mel and Mark) (Starfleet Martian Ground Facilities –Engineering Annex– A dark, shadowy out of the way corner - NPC NCO Kiva Rothvaryn– 2340) She sat in an out of the way location, her keyboard patched into an ODN conduit to encrypt the transmission on her padd. Once she made the connection, she began the encryption algorithm. and then frowned as the shadowy presence filled her screen. =^= Speak. =^= Shaking terribly, the human ex-slave spoke in a low tone, "The fighters have left the base as of this morning. The sabotage was deliberate, but some of it was discovered. The scuttlebutt is that they will be in the vicinity of the pirates early morning. The fight is being led by a child." She swallowed, hard. She hated having to report in. It made her neck itch. =^= The Williams boy will be handled. =^= Was the reply given. She reached up to scratch her neck, where her old heavy slave collar had sat before they freed her and made her their agent. =^= Intelligence? =^= "In disarray." She said succinctly. "They are surveying the Republic which is a mess and low priority as there is an alien aboard the Mystique." The shadowy presence said nothing so maybe it knew about the alien. She knew she was not the only agent aboard the Mars Base. "The Alien is the Mystique and the rumor says that it is a telepath out to punish the federation." A pleased smile crossed the lips of the person on the other end of the comm =^= Excellent. One of our agents will attempt to make contact with it. You will do nothing to jeopardize your place. One of our Agents has been detained and we will be forced to terminate. You will do nothing if such an occasion arises. You will not risk yourself. You will continue the sabotage of the fighters and the defenses of the Mars base. Is there anything else.." Something beeped and the other side cursed in klingon, cutting the connection. Quickly Kiva grabbed the patched cabling and threw it all in her case. She had an emergency site to site transporter beam already rigged but first she needed to spray down the site with a cleanser so none of her dna could be recovered and used. The question remained, how had they intercepted her transmission, and would they come for her? Her Handler had not seemed to been overly concerned and that worried Kiva. Unlike most of those that her group employed, she was not in it for personal gain, she was most concerned with getting the Federation to wake up, and deal with those citizens of member worlds who had been taken as slaves when the Federation had splintered. She had been rescued, but not soon enough. She remembered her time spent in the slave mines, of being beaten and hurt, starved and tortured all because she was an inferior species, a human. Kiva wanted revenge for the siblings she had lost and all the ones like her who had not been rescued. Her loyalty was through telepathic coercion unlike those in it for the profit. They had self destruct mechanisms. She too would self destruct rather than risk her connection to their leader. In her haste to get away, Kiva did not realize that she had damaged the skin slightly on her left index finger, leaving a microscopic trace of blood behind as she beamed away. She had much more to report in, she hadn't told their Leader that the Trill were here and the ambassador was giving advanced trill tech to the federation, but there would be another day for a report. SHE had said to lay low. (Starfleet Martian Ground Facilities –Medical Annex–Random Medical Office- NPC NCO Kiva Rothvaryn– 2358) As Kiva ended up on the far side of the medical bay from the various transports that bounced her around about sixty locations in under five seconds, she stumbled and fell hard into a box that had not been there when she had programmed the transporter sequence. Adjusting her clothing, arranging her bag, her tricorder and repair kit in hand, Kiva knelt beside the replicator in this office. She had already faked the orders that would cover her if something had gone wrong. It would take very close scrutiny to realize that the orders were faked. A soft laugh as she began to lay out her repair kit, making it seem like she had been here for a while. Someone popped a head in, the late night medic, "Hey Doc, I'm sorry, couldn't sleep and had an idea and well. Didn't mean to make noise trying to get around a box that wasn't there earlier. If you want to talk? You can keep me company while I work?" Kiva smiled, the telepathic conditioning that she spent two years enduring had made it so that various personalities could very shortly slip out, and from interaction to interaction, no would know without seeing Kiva's body that she was the same person. (reply whatever doc awake at 0002 day 5?) (posted by Mel)