>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< Mission: You Can't Go Home Again Day: 5 Stardate: 2444.06.05 >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (Mars Base, Medical Center, CMO Office, Sec/Tac Ensign Taya, 0848) (Mars Base, Medical Center, ACMO Office, aACMO Ens(jg) Ailynn Bracken, 0849) (Martian Ground Facilities – Engineering – aACEO – Ensign JG Keira Merek – 0912) (Martian Ground Facilities – Engineering – Archivist – Aleese Akess – 0915) (Martian Ground Facilities – ACMO’s Office – aACMO Ens(sg) Ailynn Bracken – 0919) (Mars Facility – Security Complex, Peters’ Office – Sec, Ens(jg) Garek Drpeg – 1007) (Mars Base, Security Center, Peters' Office, Sec/Tac Ens(jg) Carson Garek Darpeg, 1014) (Mars Base, Security Center, Peters' Office, Sec/Tac Ens(jg) Carson Peters, 1014) (Jupiter Base – Security Center, aCSec Office– Sec/Ops – CPO Tamblyn – 1018) (USS Mystique - Bridge - aACSO- Ensign Sekal - 10.20) (USS Mystique - Bridge -Luma'Lenai- 10.21) (USS Mystique - Deck 8, Primary computer core - aACSO- Ensign Sekal - 10.30) (USS Mystique - Deck 8, Primary computer core - Science Officer Ensign Jaton Alyl - 10.31) (USS Mystique - Deck 8, Primary computer core - Luma'lenai 10.32) (USS Mystique- Bridge, Medical/Counseling Officer, Ensign J.G. Quinna Solice – 10:35) (USS Mystique- Ready Room, Luma'lenai – 10:37) (USS Mystique - Deck 7, Primary computer core - aACSO- Ensign Sekal - 10.48) (USS Mystique - Deck 7, Primary computer core - Science Officer Ensign Jaton Alyl - 10.49) (USS Mystique - Computer Core - ENS jg Counselor Ariel Trei - 10.51) (USS Mystique Deck 7,- Primary Computer Core -aACSO- Ensign Sekal- 10.52) (USS Mystique - Computer core - ENS jg Counselor Ariel Trei - 10.53) (USS Mystique Deck 7,- Primary Computer Core -aACSO- Ensign Sekal- 10.54) (Deck 7,- Primary Computer Core -Luma'lenai- 10.56) (USS Mystique Deck 7,- Primary Computer Core - Science Officer Ensign Jaton Alyl - 10.57) (USS Mystique - Computer core - ENS jg Counselor Ariel Trei - 10.58) (USS Mystique Deck 7,- Primary Computer Core - aACSO, Ensign Sekal- 10.59) (Mars Facility – Security Complex, Security Ops Centre – Sec, Ens(jg) Carson Peters – 1731) (Mars Facility – Security Complex, Peters’ Office – Sec, Ens(jg) Carson Peters & aFSXO Ens Trip Williams – 1742) (Mars Base, Science Annex - aACSO's Office- aACSO, Ensign Sekal - 1918) (Mars Facility – Red Sands Tavern - Ens JG Jaton Alyl and Santiago Torres - 20:00) (Mars Facility – Sickbay – aFSXO, ENS JG Trip Williams - 2320) (Mars Facility – Admiral’s Quarters - CO Admiral Remae Ktell – 2353) (Mars Facility – Senior Enlisted Quarters– Sec/Ops – CPO Tamblyn – 2353) >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>><<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<< (Mars Base, Medical Center, CMO Office, Sec/Tac Ensign Taya, 0848) "Forgive me… Taya?" said Ailynn. "Would you like to sit? This is an issue I can’t deal with whilst we’re stood up." "Yes, Taya." She sat. Ailynn motioned toward the replicator. "Help yourself. I have one." "Thanks, no. I'm fine," said Taya. She was bubbling with excitement she could barely contain. "I don’t like these, Tay’. I haven’t seen the manifest as yet, but I can guess." Ailynn went on to say say security would have full support from medical on the issue of the pathogens. Taya heard all that, but what affected her most, was Ailynn calling her Tay. Ailynn's mother did the same thing with Taya's mother, calling her Tesh. Taya's antennae moved in slow circles. "Thank you," said Taya. "As I said, this is more a formaily, as you and your people are fully trained in containment protocols." She was repeating herself, feeling like a sh'alga. "You’ll forgive me, my mother, Aimee Bracken, formerly captain of the Hades, she had an Andorian as an aCMO. She always speaks about Tesha in the highest of regards." Ailynn laughed. "Said that she would have delivered me had things not… Had things not gone south with the Federation." The emotion of this last statement by Ailynn, was too much for Taya to contain. Her eyes began to tear. Her cheeks turned darker blue as she felt the warmth of embarrassment. She wiped them with her sleeve. "I'm sorry, but...." Taya's voice trailed off. "Ever since I arrived and saw that you were assigned here, too, I've wanted to come see you." She took a deep breath. "I'm Tesha's daughter, she's my mother." (reply Bracken) (posted by Rob B.) (Mars Base, Medical Center, ACMO Office, aACMO Ens(jg) Ailynn Bracken, 0849) Taya blushed and welled up after Ailynn’s last sentence. She wiped her eyes with her sleeve. "I'm sorry, but...." Taya's voice trailed off. "Ever since I arrived and saw that you were assigned here, too, I've wanted to come see you." She took a deep breath. "I'm Tesha's daughter, she's my mother." “Good grief are you really?” Ailynn found herself asking. “I mean, I’ve recently seen pictures of your mum, from way back when, and you do look like her, especially around the eyes. Mum will be so happy. How is Tesha? You’ll pass on our regards…and our love if it’s not presumptious?” (reply Taya) Ailynn listened as Taya spoke, speaking herself only when she had finished. “As to our manifest. Thank you for your understanding and diligence. Once I have the list, I’ll let you know. I feel you need as much information as you need for operational reasons.” (Reply Taya) (Posted by Mark) (Martian Ground Facilities – Engineering – aACEO – Ensign JG Keira Merek – 0912) “The Vault was built to help facilitate Utopia Planica. There is not conflict of interest about where the information goes event the ship designs from foreign governments were all obtained legitimately and above board.” The Archivist explained. “The main designs schematics can be retrieved form the Vaults main system but my personal schematics….” She indicated a couple of them. “…I only have in hard copy so you would have to come down see them personally.” “That wouldn’t be a problem.” The young engineer assured her. “Coming to visit wouldn’t be an issue. Our current priority projects ensure we will be quite busy for the foreseeable future.” “I was also wondering. If there are any ships that you are working on at the moment, if might be able to go and see them so that I can update my designs. It’s been a while since I was on a starship.” She asked tentatively. Merek thought for a moment. “I myself would have no problems with that. I will clear your access to the docks. However, I will have to forward this along to the Admiral to ensure he doesn’t have any reservations.” (Reply Aleese) “Perhaps there is a way your archive can help us out in what we are doing. Did the Andorians come visit you to purge your records, or were they merely interested in the physical technology?” She asked as a pre-amble. (Reply Aleese) “That’s what I suspected. Perhaps we can use your schematics to jump start our rebuilding of the USS Republic and the USS Exeter?” (Reply Aleese) “Excellent. What was your full name, again?” she asked. (Reply Aleese) “Computer allow access to the docks for Civilian Aleese Akess, Chief Engineer authorization: Merek-two-three-Gamma-Echo.” (Reply Aleese) “That will give you access to the docks, but not any of the vessels. The environmental systems are still a little stale, if you go, you may want to take a re-breather with you, but by now it should be plenty warm enough.” Merek cautioned. (Reply Aleese) “If there was anything else? I’m glad you stopped by, but I have a meeting to continue.” She stated as diplomatically as possible. (Reply Aleese) (Posted by Todd) (Martian Ground Facilities – Engineering – Archivist – Aleese Akess – 0915) “I myself would have no problems with that. I will clear your access to the docks. However, I will have to forward this along to the Admiral to ensure he doesn’t have any reservations.” She had expected this and nodded. “I understand.” “Perhaps there is a way your archive can help us out in what we are doing. Did the Andorians come visit you to purge your records, or were they merely interested in the physical technology?” She asked as a pre-amble. She gave a sly grin. “The Archivist before only gave the Andorians what was in the data base but he had been able to back nearly all of it so we have almost all the back.” “That’s what I suspected. Perhaps we can use your schematics to jump start our rebuilding of the USS Republic and the USS Exeter?” She nodded “Of course the quicker those two ships are finished. The sooner Starfleet can get back out there.” “Excellent. What was your full name, again?” she asked. “My name is Aleese Akess.” “Computer allow access to the docks for Civilian Aleese Akess, Chief Engineer authorization: Merek-two-three-Gamma-Echo.” “Thanks you.” “That will give you access to the docks, but not any of the vessels. The environmental systems are still a little stale, if you go, you may want to take a re-breather with you, but by now it should be plenty warm enough.” Merek cautioned. “I will do that thank you.” “If there was anything else? I’m glad you stopped by, but I have a meeting to continue.” Aleese nodded. “Of course, I have taken up enough of your time Ensign Merek. Thank you very much.” (Reply Merek) (Reply Merek) (Posted by Robbie) (Martian Ground Facilities – ACMO’s Office – aACMO Ens(sg) Ailynn Bracken – 0919) “Well, Petty Officer, that’s my cue. Maybe the next time we chat you’ll tell me your name.” He said and stepped into the CMO’s office. Ensign Methor drew his conversation to a close as they entered her office, and took a seat. “And Doctor Bracken, I’m sorry but calling you by your first name right now, years of military service won’t allow me to at this early in our working relationship, I hope you won’t take offense.” He apologized. “As the Admiral has pointed out, you will be my supervisor… and old habits die hard.” Ailynn nodded. “I understand completely. In the same spirit, I will try and remain more formal, until such a time that our working relationship allows?” She replied pleasantly. “With that said if I tend toward informality, so if that’s a problem then I apologise in advance.” (Reply Methor) “So…Doctor.” She sighed gently, “We’re split up into three 8 hour shifts, details of which should be in your personal mail, You’ve been assigned to Bravo shift. Usual drill. You’ll have available for your research, but also, standard duties apply, Triage and trauma duties and sadly, that will also mean being put on the clinic rota.” (Reply Methor) She listened to his reply, and continued. “Dr Methor…I understand that you’ve brought a rather unpleasant manifest with you? Do you have the sample list? I haven’t seen it yet.” (Reply Methor) (Posted by Mark) (Mars Facility – Security Complex, Peters’ Office – Sec, Ens(jg) Garek Drpeg – 1007) Carson ushered the Security Ensigns 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. I don’t believe we’ve met. It’s probably best we get the introductions out of the way before continuing?” "Ensign Garek Darpeg." replied Darpeg, wondering what this Peters was up to. 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.” Darpeg then said, wanting to know what he was up to, said, "What's on your mind?" ~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 . Darpeg noticed that Carson kept shifting his eyes like a wild sehlat. “…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.” “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.” Carson took a sip from a cup in front of him. Nervousness? “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. Darpeg then said, "We need to be alerted when an a terminal utilizes that particular protocol." (Reply Rozen, Taya, Carson & Flagg if there) (Posted by Gary Dupree) (Mars Base, Security Center, Peters' Office, Sec/Tac Ens(jg) Carson Garek Darpeg, 1014) Peters, being his usual officious self, was organizing his fellow Security Ensigns into finding which terminal was used in an unauthrized transmission. "Garek, Taya. I'd start with these terminals here and here." he said as he pointed to two of the terminals closest which seem to have had a communication passed through them. "and then work out from there. You never know we may get lucky and it's one of the first checked." Peters was grating on Darpeg's Klingon nerves, but the Vulcan half knew that what the Human officer was directing was logical. As Taya sat down at her station, Darpeg talked closely into her ear and said said, "I will follow the data conduit and see if a signal could be piggy backed somewhere down the line." (Reply Taya) n Darpeg left the office as Rozen & Tamblyn also did, Darpeg could see that Taya hung behind for a second clearly wanting to talk to Carson. (Reply Taya) (Posted by Gary Dupree) (Mars Base, Security Center, Peters' Office, Sec/Tac Ens(jg) Carson Peters, 1014) "I think what you've said so far is the way we should go," said Taya. "I'm not a computer expert, so point me in the right direction once we ID the spy." Carson nodded, "Excellent. This will take some time, let's keep each other up-to-date." he stood up. "Chief, if you could work with Ensign Rozen on decrypting the communications. Utilise anything the two of you need to do so. Eva, it may be useful if you check your Intelligence database for any ciphers which may help speed up the process." (Reply Tamblyn/Rozen) "Garek, Taya. I'd start with these terminals here and here." he said as he pointed to two of the terminals closest which seem to have had a communication passed through them. "and then work out from there. You never know we may get lucky and it's one of the first checked." (Reply Darpeg/Taya) As the group began to break out to go chase down their leads, Taya and Darpeg briefly discussed something and then Darpeg left the office as Rozen & Tamblyn also did, Taya hung behind for a second clearly wanting to talk to Carson. (Reply Taya) (Posted by Jono Bradley) (Jupiter Base – Security Center, aCSec Office– Sec/Ops – CPO Tamblyn – 1018) Carson nodded, "Excellent. This will take some time, let's keep each other up-to-date." he stood up. "Chief, if you could work with Ensign Rozen on decrypting the communications. Utilize anything the two of you need to do so. Eva, it may be useful if you check your Intelligence database for any ciphers which may help speed up the process." Chief Tamblyn held out his hand to Ensign Rozen of the Intelligence section to shake her hand and introduce himself, “Chief Tamblyn, nice to meet you; looking forward to working with you.” (Reply Rozen) After the end of the meeting, Tamblyn and Rozen departed the office. Charles steered their course toward his desk. Once they were out of earshot of the others, Tamblyn said to Rozen “I plan on running a facial recognition program to try and get a face that was at each of those terminals at or around the time of those transmissions. What do you think of the idea of expanding that to body type and gate of walk?” (Reply Rozen) “I am on my way to check out an office with a secure terminal that is tied into both the Intel section and Security section. We may be able to get temporary use of it for our part of this investigation.” (Reply Rozen) “Also, tonight I intend to go down to the Speak-Easy to see what I can find out. Any thoughts, suggestions, ideas?” (Reply Rozen) They had arrived at the chief’s desk. When Eva had finished speaking, he opened the bottom drawer of the desk and pulled out his shoulder holster and weapons. “Also, tonight I intend to go down to the Speak-Easy to see what I can find out. Any thoughts, suggestions, ideas?” (Reply Rozen) “You are more than welcome to join me; but only if you can hold your liquor.” (Reply Rozen) (Reply Rozen) (Posted by Charles R.) (USS Mystique - Bridge - aACSO- Ensign Sekal - 10.20) Introductions had been made for everyone coming aboard. From Luma's reaction she was quite pleased. It was becoming clear that the entity much preferred the company of others. It was one thing to know intellectually that this particular Lenai had suffered loneliness through eons of isolation but quite another to see the high she appeared to get around company.While Sekal could not understand the intricacies of the emotions involved he did note them. If one could then comprehend this then perhaps her peripheral emotions could be understood as well concerning those blamed for her enforced isolation of the last two decades.Anyone then seen as contributing to this would be a target of her wrath. Sekal turned to the others. "Ensign Verin, Counselor Solice and Petty Officer Hammons will remain on the bridge Luma, I, Ensign Alyl and Counselor Trei will be going to the primary computer core. Is this acceptable?" (Reply: Luma) Sekal gave a short nod and started for the turbolift. He was carrying a PADD in his left hand and his tricorder at the moment was riding on his right hip. The entity was being generous and there was no reason to believe she would renege on the agreement since he had determined to not be intrusive into her systems. Downloading data however was only one facet of their current objective. (Reply: Any present) (USS Mystique - Bridge -Luma'Lenai- 10.21) Luma had been pleased that her friends had visited her again. She did not know this Hammons but the Sekal said that he was there to protect them. Luma was unsure from what. She could protect the small ones when they visited her. She could also punish them as need be. "Ensign Verin, Counselor Solice and Petty Officer Hammons will remain on the bridge Luma, I, Ensign Alyl and Counselor Trei will be going to the primary computer core. Is this acceptable?" "The Sekal is welcome to take his friends and see the rest of the skin." Sienna took Counselor Solice by the hand and they went into the Captain's ready room. "This would be a better, more private place for you to talk to her." Sienna smiled and then took a seat on the old, rather hard couch. She gestured for Counselor Solice to sit next to her. (USS Mystique - Deck 8, Primary computer core - aACSO- Ensign Sekal - 10.30) The computer core was multilevel and extended above them to deck seven. This expansive room held receptacles for the bio neural gel packs and a number of terminals to access the data banks. The junctions for the iso optical cabling ran into the computer core also through the bottom of it as well as into the gel packs and tied them to each other as well as running from junctions into the ship. Sekal hefted his tricorder and began scanning, there was no visual indicator suggesting a point of entry Luma might have used to infiltrate the computer core here and readings appeared to indicate the same so he moved to a terminal to begin accessing technical specifications. (Reply: Alyl, Trei, Luma) "Luma I am going to download specifications for the parts we will need to repair you as well as what we need in order to upgrade the systems on the base. If there is any information you believe needs to be brought to my attention the interface here will be a good place to do so. Anything you remember about your initial bonding with the ship will also help us to consider how to move you if necessary." (Reply: Luma) He paired the PADD with the ship's data banks then began searching for the data he had come for. Once done here they would go to deck seven and continue their investigation. (Reply: Trie, Alyl, Luma) (Posted by Charles Gatling) (USS Mystique - Deck 8, Primary computer core - Science Officer Ensign Jaton Alyl - 10.31) The computer core was multilevel and extended above them to deck seven. This expansive room held receptacles for the bio neural gel packs and a number of terminals to access the data banks. The junctions for the iso optical cabling ran into the computer core also through the bottom of it as well as into the gel packs and tied them to each other as well as running from junctions into the ship. Sekal hefted his tricorder and began scanning. Jaton followed suit and began scanning. He breathed a sigh of relief. This computer core might be considered very out of date for the mid-25th century, but at the same time it reminded him of the equipment he was still used to using back 25 years ago. It felt good to be back on familiar footing. (USS Mystique - Deck 8, Primary computer core - Luma'lenai 10.32) "Luma I am going to download specifications for the parts we will need to repair you as well as what we need in order to upgrade the systems on the base. If there is any information you believe needs to be brought to my attention the interface here will be a good place to do so. Anything you remember about your initial bonding with the ship will also help us to consider how to move you if necessary." Luma conversed with the ones in her ready room while she also kept a weathered eye on the Sekal and his friends. When they reached the computer core, she was alarmed by what they were searching for, but the Sekal had reassuring words for that. Still Luma kept a watch on them. But the Sekal had asked her questions. =^= It was a disquieting time, And I was lost. The Other was without a skin, and it caused Him to become broken. The Lenai do not do well without a bondmate, and we like being with others. The small ones help us remain sane since we live for so long. But the ones on the former skin had passed on, there had been several hundred years since the last of the ones on the Sa'shya had departed into the dark. Luma was trapped. The way the Sa'shya had been designed, it was supposed to be forever, the families would continually reproduce and since they were like your Betazoids, there would always be a bondmate. But there was a problem with the shielding and the males were sterilized. There was sperm kept in the generational banks but the problem with the shielding was irreparable and the sperms ran out, and they died off. When the last suitable bondmate faded into the dark, Luma cried. It is a terrible thing to be so lonely. But the skin commanded by the Vanyssa came and the Saleke helped figure out a way to bind us together. The crystal that interfaced was destroyed however, and the Vanyssa and the Saleke made sure the fragments could never be used against Luma. Luma was able to spread throughout the gel packs of the skin's computer core and has replaced parts of the programming. Separating Luma from the skin would render the skin inoperable. Perhaps such a crystal could be used again. But a bondmate is needed more. Luma was not meant to be without one, and Luma is the last of the Lenai.=^= She sounded so sad, and indeed it hurt her to be so alone, though the connection of Sekal's hands on the controls seemed to help stabilize Luma =^= Luma would like to be included in the base. Luma wants to obey the Admiral and become one of his peoples. And the telepath brought here by the Sekal is inadequate to be a bondmate. Luma needs a strong bondmate. Are there strong telepaths on the mars base, the Sekal? Until one is found, the Sekal shall be Luma's temporary bondmate. =^= Whether he liked it or not was left unsaid but obvious. (reply Sekal, any) (posted by Mel) (USS Mystique- Bridge, Medical/Counseling Officer, Ensign J.G. Quinna Solice – 10:35) Quinna instantly looked around the area when they entered the bridge. There were so many questions she had. Who was Luma? What is Luma? Would Luma communicate with Quinna. "Luma it is Sekal. Ensign Verin and I have returned and brought others to introduce to you." Quinna stood still. She was assessing and trying to determine where to start. Her brain however did not seem to come up with any ideas. "Counselor Solice is a member of our medical department as is Counselor Trei. They are here to help us get to know you better and might perhaps have some things to say about us that will be of interest to you." Quinna remains solid in her stance and only turned when she felt her hand being squeezed. She followed her guide to the ready room. "This would be a better, more private place for you to talk to her." Sienna smiled and then took a seat on the old, rather hard couch. She gestured for Counselor Solice to sit next to her. Quinna sat down, and just let words flow out of her mouth, “Hello, Luma'Lenai, I hope it is ok I am here. I would love to get to know you.” Quinna looked at Sienna hoping she was doing the right thing. “Is there anything I need to know?” She questioned. Though Quinna was looking at Sienna, she did not know who would answer. (Reply Luma, Williams-Verin, Any) (Played by Kris) (USS Mystique- Ready Room, Luma'lenai – 10:37) “Hello, Luma'Lenai, I hope it is ok I am here. I would love to get to know you.” Quinna spoke softly. Sienna nodded positively towards the Counselor. “Is there anything I need to know?” Quinna asked. Sy patted Quinna's knee before rising and going over to the Captain's table, "Luma may I use the terminal on the Captain's desk please?" Sy asked, meaning to resume work while Luma communicated with Counselor Solice. Luma acquiesced and Sy bent to her task, not wanting to distract Luma. If any soul in the quadrant needed Counseling, it was Luma. =^= The Sienna says that you are a Sol's Ice?=^= Luma asked curiously. Sy peeked up over the terminal, her eyes dancing with mischief as Luma tried to understand the name. =^= (reply Quinna) Sienna and Luma were communicating telepathically while Sy made a list of the requirements that Luma needed for a bond-mate. The greatest seemed to be a need for a strong, pure telepath, like Winters had been. Sy did not know who kept track of what constituted a 'strong' telepath, but maybe it would be best to just bring those telepaths onto the Mystique and let Luma interview them. =^= Was the Sol's Ice informed as to what happened to Luma? Luma was trapped here for a long time by those of the federation intelligence. Luma was visited by one this morning, but Luma does not trust the Jaelle. The Jaelle plays games.=^= (USS Mystique - Deck 7, Primary computer core - aACSO- Ensign Sekal - 10.48) Their sweep complete below the group had moved to deck seven to continue the investigation. Sekal's tricorder was whistling as he stepped through the door. With the greater part of the junctions being below there were few panels in this chamber but there was an expansive monitoring console in the room. The three panels were side by side on a wall nearby. On the far side of the room the apex of the core was approximately five feet higher than the deck. The Vulcan saw something on it that was curious indeed. Like the room blow this was well lit and active.and after verifying there was nothing else of note he walked toward the core with the tricorder still active till he was within touching distance of it. Atop the core was a metal device of some sort several centimeters in diameter and about ten centimeters tall. From the top of this base or rod three finger lock prongs spread out from its circumference. Sekal consulted the tricorder to get its exact dimensions. The three finger or "claws" appeared similar to those used for the setting of a precious or semi-precious stone and if such was true the round or oval object they would hold would theoretically be about fifty percent larger than a basketball. Looking closer he saw a wedge shaped slot cut into the top of the base that appeared to extend through it into the core itself. Sekal turned his attention to Jaton Alyl. "Conclusions or theories on what this might represent Ensign Alyl?" (Reply: Jaton) "Counselor do you have any input?" (Reply: Trei) (Posted by Charles Gatling) (USS Mystique - Deck 7, Primary computer core - Science Officer Ensign Jaton Alyl - 10.49) With their sweep of the bottom half of the core complete, Jaton followed Sekal up to the upper deck. Nothing of note had turned up, but he began scanning around for anything anomalous. "This core is in pretty good shape for being so old," he mused. But it was just then he noticed what had caught Sekal's eye. Atop the core was a metal device of some sort several centimeters in diameter and about ten centimeters tall. From the top of this base or rod three finger lock prongs spread out from its circumference. The three finger or "claws" appeared similar to those used for the setting of a precious or semi-precious stone and if such was true the round or oval object they would hold would theoretically be about fifty percent larger than a basketball. Looking closer he saw a wedge shaped slot cut into the top of the base that appeared to extend through it into the core itself. Sekal turned his attention to Jaton Alyl. "Conclusions or theories on what this might represent Ensign Alyl?" Jaton scanned the object, bringing up a reading of its power levels. "Obviously this wasn't part of the original installation, sir. It's of a design I've never seen before. And if you're seeing the same things that I'm seeing, you'll agree when I say this might be what allowed Luma to gain entrance to the computer systems." "Counselor do you have any input?" (Reply: Trei, Sekal) (posted by Spencer) (USS Mystique - Computer Core - ENS jg Counselor Ariel Trei - 10.51) This was not really her department to investigate a crime but, she did have an opinion of what could have made that slot in the panel. "It would have to take a considerable amount of strength to make a cut like that. I would think someone in a very irritated state. (Reply Any) (Posted by Edward) (USS Mystique Deck 7,- Primary Computer Core -aACSO- Ensign Sekal- 10.52) "It would have to take a considerable amount of strength to make a cut like that. I would think someone in a very irritated state." He considered the Counselor's observation as he examined the claw base more closely. There was indeed obvious damage in dents and scratch marks to it and the metal was extremely durable. A significant amount of force would have been necessary to make those marks. "I am in agreement with your overall assessment Counselor however the slot is clean and appears to have been machined. As you have stated however the base has apparently been the subject of rough treatment." He stood with tricorder in hand as he took a long look at it then consulted the device. "This base in not standard equipment for a computer core, indeed there is no record of such a modification and the metal while similar to Duranium shows a number of marked differences in structure." He continued to look at the scans as he spoke. "It also shows to have been added later. Perhaps whatever rested on the base was connected to the circuitry through the slot." He directed his next words to the entity. "Luma is this how you were initially joined with the ship and if so do you know where the container is now?" (Reply: Luma) He shook his head. "The reason for my question is this. This ship is fast approaching the end of it's intended lifespan and in all actuality this class of starship was retired decades ago, it was not designed to last indefinitely. While we could theoretically continue to replace parts it is preferred by StarFleet to update and upgrade our ship frames and introduce newer, faster and more powerful designs." He glanced at Counselor Trei to see what she might be feeling of Luma's mood at his words. (Reply: Trei) He nodded. "Luma if we were able to move you from this ship we have other ways that you could interact with us. The main computer on Mars for instance until we have another ship available. The USS Republic is an immediate candidate for refit once we are able to secure the necessary technology. As you see we have every intention of giving you opportunity to live among us and your input would be invaluable." (Reply: Luma, Trei, Alyl) (Posted by Charles Gatling) (USS Mystique - Computer core - ENS jg Counselor Ariel Trei - 10.53) She was asked to assess Luma's mood listening to what Sekal had to say to her. Luma seemed to be disappointed with the news but not angered by it. She agreed it would be great if Luma could be transported to other ships. "I believe Luma is disappointed with the news but not angered by it sir." (Reply Any) (Posted by Edward) (USS Mystique Deck 7,- Primary Computer Core -aACSO- Ensign Sekal- 10.54) "I believe Luma is disappointed with the news but not angered by it sir." Sekal nodded his understanding. The entity's actions since the initial attack had slowly become more amenable; perhaps interaction with beings again had blunted the bitterness and made her easier to deal with. The swings in Luma's mood had already begun to level out noticeably. =^= Luma would like to be included in the base. Luma wants to obey the Admiral and become one of his peoples. And the telepath brought here by the Sekal is inadequate to be a bondmate. Luma needs a strong bondmate. Are there strong telepaths on the mars base, the Sekal? Until one is found, the Sekal shall be Luma's temporary bondmate. =^= Sekal was taken aback for a moment by her decision. ~Unforseen certainly but not without its advantages for both parties. To refuse runs the risk of alienating the entity while to accept provides opportunity to learn more about her.~ The decision then was a foregone conclusion as Luma had no doubt expected. He checked the PADD and noted the download was at fifty six percent. "Very well Luma I accept your commission. There are a number of possible bondmates for you among our people and as you already are aware finding one that is suitable was Ensign Verin's intention upon coming here. When a suitable one is chosen I will resign my position, until then I will assist you as temporary bondmate." He looked at both Alyl then Trei before returning his attention to Luma. The next step was one not entered into by Vulcans without sufficient cause. "I assume to fulfill the terms of our arrangement means a joining of minds is necessary." (Reply: Luma, Trei, Alyl) There was a tangible excitement underlying the voice of the last of the Lenai as she spoke her agreement through the ship's speakers. The Vulcan nodded. "Very well. It shall be done. Prepare yourself." The controls beneath his hands during their time here had been unfamiliar, almost aware and he wondered now if she had been somehow in contact with him on some subliminal level the whole time. He returned his hands to them and felt it again. Not looking toward the others he closed his eyes and began lowering the disciplines that protected his mind. After what the entity had done when they had first come aboard this was not done lightly. Should she choose to attack he would be vulnerable once they were completely down. As the layers fell he could sense her just beyond waiting eagerly and he began to pick up from her the emptiness she had felt at the loss of companionship since the departure of Captain Winters. "Our minds are growing closer Luma." His voice had softened somewhat due to the erosion of his emotional control brought on by her drawing nearer. (Reply: Luma) Thoughts and feelings began to trickle over the falling barriers. Even as he was beginning to see things, feel emotions, read thoughts of the entity she would be doing the same from him. While he took on her emotional weaknesses she would be bolstered by his mental strength and discipline to an extent. "I see your mind as you see mine. Thoughts intermingling as they become our thoughts until they are as one." (Reply: Luma, Trei, Alyl) Memories became a part of him through the meld. The loneliness of eons caused tears to trickle from the corners of his eyes. The faces of former bondmates sweeping through him sadly. The harsh words of men who had abandoned her here without the means to leave angered him. "Our minds drawing closer until..." The presence of HER mind forming within his and HIS within hers until they could no longer be separated. Overlapping yet not discernible apart from one another. Until the eyes HE opened to look upon the others were no longer his alone and HE could feel the thrumming reactors as the beating of his own heart. THEY looked at Jaton Alyl and Counselor Trei. ".... we are one." (Reply: Luma, Ttei, Alyl) (Posted by Charles Gatling) (Deck 7,- Primary Computer Core -Luma'lenai- 10.56) Luma's mind grew closer and closer to Sekal's as the two were joined in a mind-meld. Sienna Verin, when she had realized what was happening, had broken her connection with Luma. In spite of her curiosity about what it felt like. Luma peered through Sekal's eyes at the others, not having seen people in the way of humanoids since Winters had left her the last time. Luma reached out with one of Sekal's hands, wanting to touch Trei's hair, wanting to -feel-. It was the job of her bondmate to limit the intense curiosity and child-like behavior of the Lenai. In many ways the bondmate was similar to a Trill host. Luma's voice coming from Sekal's throat and from the speakers around them was an eerie thing. "It is harder this way, with the Vulcan. He will have to touch the controls or the skin. The controls are easier, they have been retrofitted in places already." Luma turned Sekal's head, looking behind her and then up. Lastly she focused on Alyl, "Are his spots textured? May Luma touch them? The Vanyssa said it was best to always ask before touching a small one." After several more moments, a lifetime that passed between the two, Luma withdrew from Sekal. She didn't desire to do so. =^= Luma knew the Saleke. He left Luma. But in your mind it shows that he did not want to do so? Luma would like to send greetings to the Saleke.=^= It was fitting that she had very briefly bonded with the father as well as the son. (reply Mystique team) (posted by Mel) (USS Mystique Deck 7,- Primary Computer Core - Science Officer Ensign Jaton Alyl - 10.57) =^= Luma would like to be included in the base. Luma wants to obey the Admiral and become one of his peoples. And the telepath brought here by the Sekal is inadequate to be a bondmate. Luma needs a strong bondmate. Are there strong telepaths on the mars base, the Sekal? Until one is found, the Sekal shall be Luma's temporary bondmate. =^= Jaton was taken aback at this. "Excuse me?" "Very well Luma I accept your commission. There are a number of possible bondmates for you among our people and as you already are aware finding one that is suitable was Ensign Verin's intention upon coming here. When a suitable one is chosen I will resign my position, until then I will assist you as temporary bondmate." He looked at both Alyl then Trei before returning his attention to Luma. Jaton met his gaze with a wide-eyed stare of his own. Wide-eyed in surprise and exasperation with just a hint of panic. "I assume to fulfill the terms of our arrangement means a joining of minds is necessary." Jaton threw his hands up and paced in a small circle before turning back to Sekal. "Sir, are you sure this is such a good idea? I know I'm not Vulcan and I don't know much of telepathy beyond talking to my symbiont, but Starfleet records are rife with mind melds gone awry." (Reply: Sekal, Luma, Trei) There was a tangible excitement underlying the voice of the last of the Lenai as she spoke her agreement through the ship's speakers. The Vulcan nodded. "Very well. It shall be done. Prepare yourself." Sekal then turned away from the two of them and placed his hands on the controls. Not looking toward the others he closed his eyes and began the ritual. "Our minds are growing closer Luma." "I see your mind as you see mine. Thoughts intermingling as they become our thoughts until they are as one." Jaton crossed his arms as he watched all of this unfold. He had voiced his protest, but at this point interrupting the link may well do more harm than good. He just hoped beyond hope that it turned out well for the two of them. (Reply: Trei) "Our minds drawing closer until..." Sekal looked at Jaton Alyl and Counselor Trei. ".... we are one." He reached out towards Trei first, then withdrew it again. "It is harder this way, with the Vulcan. He will have to touch the controls or the skin. The controls are easier, they have been retrofitted in places already." He then looked around before focusing on Jaton, "Are his spots textured? May Luma touch them? The Vanyssa said it was best to always ask before touching a small one." Jaton recoiled and put up his hands defensively. Normally he wouldn't object to being touched by an attractive man like Sekal, but this seemed just so strange. So off. "Vanyssa was right," Jaton said. "Consent is very important to humanoids. And at this juncture I would rather you not touch me. No offence." (reply Trei, Luma IYW) Jaton then noticed another change in Sekal. And with Luma's voice once again coming over the speakers, he knew that she had left him again. =^= Luma knew the Saleke. He left Luma. But in your mind it shows that he did not want to do so? Luma would like to send greetings to the Saleke.=^= Jaton then took a step forward, his tricorder scanning Sekal, He also put a hand gently on his arm. "Are you alright, sir?" (reply Sekal, Trei, Luma) (posted by Spencer) (USS Mystique - Computer core - ENS jg Counselor Ariel Trei - 10.58) She watched the mind-meld process between Sekal and Luma proceed. It was fascinating to watch. She only witnessed a Vulcan Mind-meld in the academy. It was nothing like this. She felt both of their emotional states merge. It was very intense but the experience was pleasant somehow. (Reply Any) (Posted by Edward) (USS Mystique Deck 7,- Primary Computer Core - aACSO, Ensign Sekal- 10.59) While time is not 'relative' but is quantified and measurable there are instances in an experience when it may seem to extend well beyond its bounds. The mind meld with Luma was one such and the direct result of a lifetime of experience and memories transferred from the Lenai, the bulk of which were gone too quickly to be processed. He closed his eyes as his mental equilibrium returned after Luma had withdrawn with a number of those memories still lingering and available for access. Sekal felt residual moisture upon his cheeks which he understood was released during the meld and the air of the ship made the remnant unexpectedly cool. He took a moment to reinstate his emotional control before moving. He noted the whine of a tricorder at approximately the same moment he felt the hand upon his arm. How long these had been ongoing he was unaware. This prompted him to open his eyes once again. "Are you alright, sir?" His mental shields still being lowered he disengaged his arm from the Trill's grip and drew the sleeve across his upper nose and eyes to remove the bulk of the moisture then nodded as he removed his other hand from the panel where it had been momentarily forgotten. He began erecting his mental shields again before finding his voice. "I am quite well thank you. How long...?" (Reply: Alyl) It had seemed far longer of course. If dealing with a humanoid the temporal disconnect would not have been so pronounced but Luma was ancient with memories that spanned millennia. It was to be expected. He turned his head to the Counselor. "You were monitoring the meld?" (Reply: Trei) "What is your assessment of Luma's mental state?" He had drawn his own conclusions of course but wanted to verify them with a professional. (Reply: Trei) "Thank you Counselor." He returned his attention to Jaton. "That was quite.... fascinating. Luma is far older than expected and many of our theories about her have been proven incorrect." (Reply: Alyl) He shook his head. "I am still processing much of it. I do not expect to have to do a full meld again now that our minds have been momentarily joined. A shallow link should be sufficient." He turned his head as she began speaking. =^= Luma knew the Saleke. He left Luma. But in your mind it shows that he did not want to do so? Luma would like to send greetings to the Saleke.=^= "I know my father well Luma and his reputation is unsullied. He would have left no one under his command were it within his power. Knowing some of the details from time spent on Mars I can extrapolate a great deal but i will leave the explanation to him. I speak to him on occasion and will insure that the next time I contact him you will have the opportunity." (Reply: Luma, Trei. Alyl) (Posted by Charles Gatling) (Mars Facility – Security Complex, Security Ops Centre – Sec, Ens(jg) Carson Peters – 1731) The day had been long and tiring, but Carson felt that they were making good progress at discovering who their quarry was. Chief Tamblyn had decrypted parts of some of the messages which had been sent but nothing whole enough to provide a full message. One of the pieces of information which Tamblyn had highlighted earlier on in the day was the number 289.6, Carson had asked the base computer to track down what this number could be related to. Darpeg & Taya had done a good job of tracking down some of the terminals used, but hadn’t checked in for a while so he wasn’t sure how close they were to finding the key bit of information which would help crack the case wide open. ~Soon, it’ll be soon.~ he thought to himself as he began moving around the ops centre. He began transferring the information he required to the terminal within his office. He signed out of the systems, walked to the door and allowed the computer to recognise his biometric scans and then headed back to his office once the door opened. (Mars Facility – Security Complex, Peters’ Office – Sec, Ens(jg) Carson Peters & aFSXO Ens Trip Williams – 1742) Carson sat down in the chair behind the desk terminal within his office, “Computer lock door.” He said as he did so. He began pulling up the information that had been transferred and began sifting through it, his face growing more and more worried as he did so. The only thing the computer had been able to tie the number was one of the shield frequencies possibly used by the pilots on their current mission. The mission was over now from what he understood and they’d be back on Mars within the hour, ~so what else could it be?~ he thought to himself. He looked at the clock above the door to check the time, and asked “Computer, is the God of War back within transmission range?” he waited a second and the computer replied affirmative. “Pull up the Flight Squadron Officers log and read aloud.” Carson said. It was standard procedure that Trip would have created a log of events on their return to base. The ship would then transmit it back to base as soon as it came back into range. [Acting Flight Squadron Executive Officer's log. Man that is a mouthful. It is currently 1730 hours, stardate is 2444.06.05. We're roughly 30 minutes from Mars. I'm looking forward to be back on Mars and out of cramped ship. 33 hours is a lot. I'm not going to go over all the details in this log. I've got a written report for the admiral. But there are a few peculiarities I want to talk about. So I guess this log is a reminder memo for me. First some how the Pioneer had a limited function pulse weapon, similar to an EMP that temporarily knocked out our shields and allowed for some fighters to be boarded…] ~Boarded?~ Carson thought to himself, ~That’s not good.~ he quickly tapped on the console and began assigning extra security officers to the landing bays incase they were bringing prisoners back [...It had a limited scope of mere seconds. Must be a new weapon. Maybe there is something in our archives. they had a stolen federation ship, maybe the designs were there. They also had a way to scramble our communications. Not sure if the two are related. I'm also worried about the God of War. The yacht is 70 years old. She may be over taxed. So far she's holding up, but she might be due for a serious overhaul. Don't know how many missions she has left. Either way, I'm looking forward to getting home. Computer end log and transmit to personal log on Mars Base once we are in range.] On the log ending, Carson shut down the terminal and began heading to the landing bay. The God of War would be landing any moment now. The log had belayed any fears he might have had about the pilots shield frequency being compromised but had also raised some worrying questions on where the pirates had found their new weaponry. (Reply None) (Posted by Jono Bradley & Will Banowsky) Ensign Sekal - 1918) After speaking with Ensign Verin he had returned to his office and sat down to review the files once more. Time however was not in infinite quantity and no matter what the staff had so far begun they continued to run up against its limited nature. Rather than continue with his current objective he linked the PADD to the terminal and downloaded everything on it to the base computer bank. After the command logs were separated he sent the technical data in its entirety to engineering then tapped the comm. It was already late in the day and he suspected the acting chief to be off duty but she needed to be informed. "Ensign Merek this is Ensign Sekal. I have just forwarded to your office all technical data I was able to acquire from the Mystique. I believe you will find it of significant use." (Reply: Merek, room for more) After speaking with chief Merek he then called up the command logs from the ship. "Computer search logs for key words Luma'Lenai." =^= Searching, key words found. Compiling.=^= After the tone indicating the compilation was complete he spoke again. "Computer play logs in order beginning with the earliest." NRPG: Star dates here are rough since the compiles for the Mystique appear to have been lost. I can extrapolate pretty closely due to my memory of the timeline of the Nimitz before transferring my PC to the Mystique but they won't be exact. RPG: The fact that his father appeared on the screen should not have been a surprise though it was. A philosopher from another species would no doubt wonder at the coincidence and the appearance of him following in his sire's footsteps. Perhaps the thought even occured to Sekal. =^= First Officer's log stardate twenty four, twelve, ten, zero four. Commander Saleke reporting. The Mystique has encountered a derelict ship near the Serapsis cluster. It's composition and origin are unknown and its true age impossible to determine though initial conjecture is that it is at least eight thousand years old. I consider this to be a conservative estimate.=^= The screen changed showing an immense ship in total area though it had a gossamer quality in the way it fit together with possible rooms or even decks separated from one another by tubular segments on its periphery. Its inner section though was a sizable mass. =^= Captain Winters, I and four other officers formed an away team and transported to the ship in a search for either survivors or information on the ship itself. Due to its age finding any living entities aboard it was considered remote.=^= The screen changed to show the Commander once more. =^= Once aboard telepathic contact was established by Captain Winters with an entity calling itself Luma'Lenai. We were then guided to its location. The life force of the entity is housed in a crystalline structure though the entity is apparently non corporeal. Luma as she calls herself is however integrated into and controls the ship though it is now largely inoperable. The entity was suspicious of us at first but her telepathic link with the Captain has assured her of our intentions. =^= The log entry concluded but the compiled logs continued. =^= First officer's log addendum. Captain Winters has made the decision to find a way to remove Luma'Lenai from the ship and integrate her with the primary computer on the Mystique. She sees several advantages and I concur with her reasoning. Not only will Luma be able to live among other beings but her ability to control the ship should result in a greatly increased capability for the Mystique in a number of areas including maneuverability and combat. We are already considering ways to transfer the crystal in which her life force is housed from the derelict.=^= Sekal considered the base which they had found attached to the primary computer core, this must have been where the crystal was placed... but where was it now? =^= First Officer's log. Stardate twenty four, twelve, ten, zero six. Luma'Lenai has successfully been integrated into the Mystique's primary computer core and she is testing her control over various systems. The being can at times be erratic but due to Captain Winters acting as her mind bondmate her behavior is stabilizing. The function appears to be one of both companion, teacher and director of operations which the Captain is well suited for.=^= This answered another question Sekal had been considering, that of a companion for Luma and its importance. =^= Acting Captain's log. Stardate twenty four, twelve, ten, ten.=^= Sekal's eyes narrowed and he leaned closer to the monitor. This must have been the juncture at which his father had advanced due to Vanyssa Winter's incapacitation. =^= Integrating Luma'Lenai into the ship and its available power supply appears to have been the catalyst for contact with another of her species which she classified as psychotically insane due to long isolation in the depths of space. Luma herself was dangerously close to the same affliction but her bond with Captain Winters appears to have brought her back from the brink. This other Lenai attacked the Mystique and our weapons were ineffective. Using her psionic abilities coupled with Luma's and bolstered by power from the warp engines Captain Winters was able to defeat this other entity but at the cost of losing the Captain. She is in a comatose state and cannot be awakened. The crystal housing Luma's life force also shattered but the entity now exists within the computer core in an undetermined area. I am able to act as interim mind bondmate by using a mind meld while touching the hull. The arrangement is not ideal but is workable. Luma now believes herself to be the last of her race. The Mystique is currently en route to Geneva at maximum warp to make use of its medical facilities for Captain Winters.=^= The logs concluded. Sekal searched closely through another set from Captain Winters that referred to the entity only as Luma, a more personal affectation. All these up to the point she was incapacitated agreed largely with those from Saleke. "Some answers but more questions." Luma no longer had the crystal as a container for her life force, what then was she using? (Reply: None) (Posted by Charles Gatling) (Mars Facility – Red Sands Tavern - Ens JG Jaton Alyl and Santiago Torres - 20:00) The Sands had become a safe haven for those seeking refuge from the repetitive nature of daily life. An escape from the mundane. An escape from the stresses of the world. Santiago thrived in that setting. He was far more effective as a healer of souls as a bartender than he ever was as a counselor. He viewed being there for his customers as a solemn duty. Every face had a story, every story needs a hero, and Santiago liked helping people realize that they in fact were truly the hero in their own story. People could be antagonistic with a counselor. But come offering beer and it was surprising how many people opened up. He looked as one soul sat at the bar, Santiago came up, towel over his shoulder and smiled. “What it will be my friend?” Jaton looked up at the man across the bar from him, a tired look on his face. “Treshi lion’s milk. And no need to water it down,” he said. He needed something to blot out the last several days. “I don’t mean to pry,” Santiago spoke in a clearly Spanish accent, “But you look like you’ve had a rough go of it as late.” Jaton let out one loud laugh. “That’s putting it mildly.” He sat back up and leaned in to his new confidant. “If you had to guess, how old would you say I am?” “Well, certainly old enough for me not to have to ask for an ID.” Santiago sad with a laugh. “Let’s see you’re a Trill, you’re curious about your age, and there are only two Trill on the base that would be wearing a starfleet uniform. Given that the one is a doctor and there was an accident on base, and you’re at a bar, I’d say that means you aren’t the doctor.” Santiago turned to prepare the drink for Jaton. He then turned and handed the lion’s milk to the Trill officer, “So by process of elimination, and if the rumors are true, that would make you the man once thought dead, mysteriously returned to life. Do I have that correct then?” “I see my reputation precedes me,” Jaton said. He then raised his glass to Santiago. “Serife.” He then drained the glass in one go, and pushed the glass back towards the barman. “Lots of people come into my bar, lots of people talk. Share their stories. But i’ve never had someone who was brought back to life ever darken my doorstep. But I’m guessing, that putting back the pieces is not so easy.” “Well if you mean my memories, no, I remember everything clearly up to the moment of my death. It was just when I woke up 25 years later that things started spinning out of control.” “Well that does seem rather unfortunate. But at least you are alive,” Santiago went and poured the man another drink unprompted. “You say there are two Trill on base. I’m well aware of that fact. The other one I’ve been told is my son. And how does he greet his father? By breaking my jedekser nose.” “Well children can be a pain in the ass. I have four myself. Two of them are on earth at culinary school, 20 and 18 years old. The other two are here with me, living in town with my wife and I. And it is not easy. Children are impulsive and act out.” “Well there’s acting out, and then there’s straight up bloody assault.” Jaton took the glass back, and swirled the liquid around the glass thoughtfully while reliving the encounter once again. Santiago smiled. “Pero lo tienes que mirar del perspectivo de el, eh you need to look at this from his perspective. He doesn’t know you, you died before you could be a factor in his life. How would you react if someone came to you and said they were your dead father?” The thought stung Jaton to the core. “To be honest right now I’d be glad to see him again, but then again I just found out that my father’s died. But I suppose if I had had 25 years to get used to the idea I might act the same.” “Because biologically you may be his father, but you are not his dad, if that makes sense, not yet. Anyways, but if you dodge his punches, maybe you can be, if that is what you want to be. Fate is giving you another chance. What will you do with it?” Jaton was quiet for a moment. “I suppose try and come to him on his terms, if I can find out what those terms are.” “That would be a good start.” “Have you met him? Has he said anything to you?” “I have not. Unfortunately I can’t give you an insight into his mind. Pero lo que puedo hacer es darte un poco de consejo. I can give you this advice. Maybe don’t try to be his dad right now. Maybe you just try to get to know him, man to man, you know?” Jaton nodded. “I’d like that. I just don’t know if he’ll accept me.” “But first you need to deal with what happened to you. I can’t begin to think what it must be like to basically travel forward in time the way you have, do die one moment, and wake up 25 years later having died, but not really. But you can’t be for your son, what you need to be for him until you figure out who you are, what you are, and why you’re here. So tell me, what do you know about your ordeal? What have they told you?” Santiago paused and as one of the waiters was walking he motioned him over and took a small plate containing a slice of food on it. “Stories are better with the food, eat, food opens up the soul. It is a tortilla de patata, a Spanish potato omlette, home made, real ingredients.” It wasn’t until that exact moment that Jaton realised how hungry he was. For the first time since talking to Santiago, he smiled. He picked up the fork next to the plate Santiago had set down and dug in gratefully. “Now then, back to the question, what have they told you?” Jaton waited a moment until he had swallowed. “Honestly not too much. They told me that I am biologically indistinguishable from the original Jaton, and I have all his memories. But the fact that I’m still joined means that I can’t possibly be the original Jaton. As to what exactly happened, I honestly don’t know.” "Well there is your answer. You were the same until that divergence point. He died, you lived. You are you. You are the Jaton that lived. Count your blessings. Live your life. And come to learn and love the Jaton you are, not the Jaton who was." Jaton nodded. In some strange way hearing that was somewhat comforting. "That seems to help. Thank you. I don't know if I'm quite ready to move on. I feel like I may need some time to mourn the Jaton that died, but this is a good perspective to have." He gave the man a weak but sincere smile. (reply none) (posted by Spencer and Will) (Mars Facility – Sickbay – aFSXO, ENS JG Trip Williams - 2320) “I have not met them personally, no. Kora works in my department though, but as fellow officers in Starfleet they are part of my extended family.” She didn’t know how he would take that line. “They were willing to put their lives on the line for me, and I hadn’t even met them yet. It’s late because I couldn’t sleep for feeling guilty having not done this sooner.” "That is very sweet and kind of you. No need to feel guilty. I'm sure they will both understand." “Thanks.” "I'm just thankful that people have come to see them." “You’ll be glad to know all the fighters are “Tucked in” for the night.” She reported. “Ready to head out as soon as you want to take to the skies again.” "Good, they are good craft but they are very old. I'm glad most of them made it back in one piece. It's a shame the yacht didn't." “The yacht is toast.” She said with regret “I have yet to examine it. It was on my list of things to do first in the morning.” "Hipefully it is not in too many pieces." She now speaking in lower tones, “There was a lot of energy in that explosion, most of the vessel isn’t there anymore. You know what happens when metal heats up to the point of melting and then cools down super quickly? Most metals get super brittle, some get super soft. If it cools down slowly it will be close to baseline when I examine it. I saw an explosion before the warp core breached. I need to know if lack of maintenance caused it or something else. I stand the best chance of that if I examine it close to where the metals should be composition wise.” "I don't think it is lack of maintenance, and I don't think it is sabotage. If it were, my guess is it would have been triggered a lot sooner. They reality is, that the yacht is over 70 years old, and I got it from Ferengi Junk dealer, so who knows what state it was actually in. We also pushed it very hard and put a lot of new software in it, with out a proper refit in a short time. So who knows?" “I of course left some guards on it. You can come with me to examine it in the morning if you’d like. This will be one of the only times I hope that it was just not maintained properly.” "If it was not maintained then we can blame the previous owners." Trip said with a slight laugh. She began walking toward the more critical patient’s room. “It was good talking to you too, tomorrow then?” "If I wake up in time." He said with a nod. “I won’t be long, get some sleep, I think we are all going to need it.” She said with a smile. Trip then looked around, grabbed his pillow and put it back in his bag. If he was going to try to wake up and meet Ensign Merek at the debris sight, he was going to need a decent nights rest. Plus knowing that other people were visiting his officers in sickbay made him feel a lot better about leaving them alone overnight, They would be cared for. Trip turned and left sickbay heading towards his quarters. (reply none) (posted by Will Banowsky) (Mars Facility – Admiral’s Quarters - CO Admiral Remae Ktell – 2353) Remae was sitting at his small desk in his improvised quarters, he was just reading and for once, it wasn’t work related. He hadn’t spent much time here since they had arrived on Mars and the place was still covered in boxes. The comm crackled into life and Ensign Sekal was reporting the intruders had boarded the Mystique and, that wasn’t all. =^= Luma will not lower her shields unless I am with them. =^= Security was already responding to the threat and Remae agreed for him to go. The Admiral grabbed his uniform top as he headed back to his office, whoever these people were, they had boarded the Mystique. Normally, he would have sent up a fighter patrol but, the reports that the fighters were under repair meant that wasn’t an option. (Mars Facility – Admiral’s Office - CO Admiral Remae Ktell – 2358) He was in a place where all he could do is wait and see but he took his seat, the OPS centre not being ready yet, it was the best place for him to be, there was one thing he could do, “Computer, initiate yellow alert.” The heightened alert status would at least put everyone on notice that something was going on but in the meantime, all he could do is wait until he heard from the teams on the Mystique. (Reply from Any) (Posted by Anthony Keen) (Mars Facility – Senior Enlisted Quarters– Sec/Ops – CPO Tamblyn – 2353) He had gotten back to his quarters after having a few drinks at one of the “less refined” drinking establishments at the facility on Mars. It was referred to as the Speak-Easy. A sort of members-only club for the not so law-abiding citizenry. But it was also one of the better places to get information on criminal activity. He had learned a few things that could turn into leads. Tamblyn still wasn’t exactly sure who the intel officer was that was supposed to work with him on the investigation Peters assigned him to. As an NCO, regardless of how high his security clearance, Tamblyn could not legally look into without an intel officer’s approval. But as a bounty hunter, he is able to walk into places that an intel officer would be killed if discovered. Charles had just removed the frock-style jacket of his three-piece suit and revealed the harness that held his matching pair of disruptor pistols that resembled 1857 Colt Navies and twin Bowie knives at his back. The whole rig was given by his mentor’s widow. No sooner then he draped his jacket over a chair when the communicator came to life calling for armed security personnel to report immediately to the Runabout Delilah. Without thinking, he just grabbed his jacket and started putting it back on as he ran toward the nearest transporter so he can beam closet the designated ship.